Spirit of Shalom

Progressive Christianity

While valuing the ancient creeds that have contributed to the long history of the Church, we are nonetheless open to the discoveries of modern scholarship, science and archaeology.

What about the Bible?

We at Shalom take the Bible seriously, but not always literally.  The Bible is open to interpretation, scholarly exposition and discerning the social, geographical, political, economic and religious context of its writers.   It is a record of mortals’ search for God and their response to those discoveries.

Our Purpose

To understand the kind of love and justice practiced by Jesus and the prophets and to give expressions to those understandings, individually and collectively through the congregation. 

Peace with Justice

As a congregation we are unequivocally committed to promoting peace and justice in our world, realizing that a real and lasting peace does not come without the pursuit of justice.

Open and Affirming

We are welcoming to all who want to be here and celebrate all you bring to our church community.

Importance of Community

As members of our faith community we seek to create a family where all are welcome and feel safe, where open inquiry is encouraged, dialogue is valued and practiced,  and where thoughtful compassion is cultivated and expressed.  Active listening and honest sharing are basic to such dialogue, as is a willingness to listen to minority opinions and reach consensus. 

Interfaith Involvement

Shalom values the great religions of the world and seeks to understand the differences and points of commonality.  Shalom meets regularly with the Jewish, Muslim and other faith communities in the Tri-Cities for the sake of better understanding and for the pursuit of initiatives that are in our common interests

Ecumenical Participation

Shalom UCC is involved ecumenically with several Tri-Cities Christian congregations.

Partaking of Communion

All are welcome to participate.  We have an "open table" because it is not our table, but Christ's table.  No matter where you are on life's spiritual journey, you are welcome at Shalom.