We, Hillcrest Congregational, a United Church of Christ, believe that all people are created in God’s image and thus are blessed and loved equally by God, and love is a unifying and strengthening force within our Christian faith. We declare ourselves an Open and Affirming (ONA) Christian community, actively expressing Jesus’ inclusive embrace of all peoples. We believe that all people are created in God's image and thus are blessed and loved equally by God, because love is a unifying and strengthening force within our Christain faith. We declare ourselves an Open and Affirming Christian community, actively expressing Jesus' inclusive embrace of all people. We welcome all who seek to follow Jesus, including persons of every age, gender, race, national origin, faith background, marital status and family structure, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, mental and physical ability, economic and social status, and educational background, to share in the life, leadership, ministry, fellowship, worship, sacraments, responsibilities, blessings and joys of our church family. Jesus teaches us to welcome all God’s children into God’s covenantal community. As we grow together in faith and love, we will strive to celebrate the diversity in which God has created us. All are welcome to participate fully in the life, leadership, ministry, and mission of this church as we seek to grow together in a safe and nurturing community of faith. We strive to demonstrate in all ways that “no matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”

“I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” (John 13:34)