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Here are some questions you might have:
Who is Edwards anyway?
Our church is named after Jonathan Edwards, an 18th century preacher and evangelist, who was a catalyst for the Great Awakening. Our church’s founders named our church after Edwards because his preaching reflected a commitment to Jesus Christ. There is no apostrophe in “Edwards”.
What is the United Church of Christ?
The United Church of Christ was created in 1957 through the merger of the Congregational Christian Church and the Evangelical and Reformed Church. Like Edwards, most UCC churches in New England come from the Congregational Church, and trace our roots back to the Puritans.
The United Church of Christ has a congregational structure, so each local church is responsible for making our own decisions, based on our understanding of how God is leading us. We come together as a denomination in order to share guidance and support, and to be able to make a difference in the world.
What do the people of Edwards Church believe?
The members and friends of Edwards Church come from a wide range of church backgrounds, and express their beliefs in a variety of ways. Some call themselves seekers, struggling to articulate what they believe. Others are very clear about their faith. We understand that we are walking together on our faith journeys, encouraging one another.
How do you become a member of Edwards Church?
Most people choose to attend worship and other events for a while as they decide whether Edwards Church is the right place for them. Several times a year, we host a Gathering of Friends for people who are interested in learning more about our church and for people who are considering joining. We receive them into membership during a Sunday morning worship service.
What about baptisms at Edwards Church?
We rejoice in every baptism at Edwards Church. We understand baptism to be a celebration of God’s love for the one being baptized, an assurance of God’s promise of ongoing renewal and forgiveness, and a way to welcome a child or adult into the fellowship of the Christian church.
Because baptism includes promises that the congregation makes to nurture the one being baptized, we encourage people who would like their child baptized to become part of the life of the church, so that the congregation can offer the care we have promised.
What about weddings at Edwards Church?
Edwards Church rejoices in the opportunity to celebrate the sacred commitments made at weddings and covenanting ceremonies. Weddings held in the sanctuary are performed by the pastor, at her discretion. Rev. Clark usually meets with a couple three times prior to a wedding and will lead a rehearsal as well.