Radical Hospitality

WE’RE NOT ALL ALIKE

Although we have much in common, we’re also a pretty diverse bunch. Liberal. Conservative. Lifelong church goers. Spiritual questioners. We believe God has brought us together because of our differing perspectives, not despite them. We are a fully inclusive church. No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at United Church of Ferndale.

Scripture

“WE TAKE THE BIBLE TOO SERIOUSLY TO TAKE IT LITERALLY.”

These are the words of Madeleine L’Engle, we take the bible too seriously to take it literally.  There are beautiful stories in the Bible and, whether factual or allegorical, they offer much wisdom for our lives. With the occasional exception, we follow the Revised Common Lectionary (link to http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/ ), a list of Hebrew and Christian testaments which are read during worship services and offer various Bible study classes from time to time.

Kids

WE DON’T JUST WELCOME THEM WE ADORE THEM

Looking for a place where your children will be adored? We adore children! And we also know they come with a certain amount of noise and wiggles. Children are always welcome in worship service and we offer entertainment packs and the occasional stuffed animal friend for busy little ones. We also offer Children’s Church and a Nursery if it would make you and your child more relaxed. Either way, the occasional joyful (or not so joyful) noise only adds to our worship experience. And our Children’s Chapel teacher is a delight!

Communion

ALL ARE WELCOME

As an act of remembrance, we share consecrated bread and grape juice (in lieu of wine) on the first Sunday of each month. During this time, we re-member with each other and with people of faith worldwide. We re-member our call to love and serve. ALL ARE WELCOME AT THE TABLE! Seriously, all means all! We don’t care what your faith background is, if you’ve been taking communion since you were a kid or if you’re not entirely sure what it’s all about and just want to feel a part of something bigger than you. You’re also free to just sit and watch and enjoy the lovely music if you prefer.

Music

COME PLAY AN INSTRUMENT, SING, HAVE A GREAT TIME

What would a Sunday worship service be without music? And we enjoy our music! We have a talented group of musicians leading us in hymns and an awesome choir! Feel free to sing out (in tune or not) and find ways to share in our music ministry. We welcome our new Choir Director and Accompanist Veronica West.

Share

THE GIFTS OF GOD FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD

Since all that we have is a gift from God, we strive to treat our lives and our space as a gift. We have been blessed with a beautiful conveniently-located building, a talented and sharing community, and a spirit of generosity. If you’re looking for volunteers to support a project we can help! If you’re looking for a safe, sacred space for a group or community event we can help with that too. Part of our worship services on Sundays includes a time where we invite people share prayers and offering. If you’re new to either one of those practices, no pressure! Feel free to respond as God calls you or just soak it all in.