First United Methodist Church

Mission Statement:
First Church exists as a local expression of the Kingdom of God “on earth as it is in heaven”. Our mission is to point people to our King, Jesus, and to witness to His marvelous love and living presence among us.

Vision Statement:
Our vision, as members of the Body of Christ, is to equip our church family to be:

Wise in the Head – Well grounded and solidly rooted in Jesus, the Word of God;
Strong in the Heart – Alive, empowered, and full of love by the Holy Spirit; and
Helpful with the Hand – Quick to express the love of the Father in practical ways.

Purpose Statement:
This congregation shall be a place where all who enter will:

Encounter the Living God through His Son Jesus Christ;
Experience the personal, ongoing and transforming work of the Holy Spirit, and
Participate in true fellowship of Christian community.

Beliefs:
We feel strongly about everything both ways… No honestly, this congregation flows in the greater Spirit-filled evangelical stream of Christianity, but with a love for tradition and innovation as well. We focus on relationship with God and each other, and try to stay as far away from dead religion – liberal and conservative – as we can. We are absolutely convinced that we are “Saved by grace through faith,” and not by being churchy or legalistic. In an area of much “churchianity” and religiosity, we, in Jesus, try to shine as a lighthouse of love, acceptance, and forgiveness. The world beats people up – we try to be a Body whom, in the Holy Spirit, participates in seeing people rebuilt, restored, and transformed.