When churches say they’re “progressive,” it can mean different things. For us, it’s not a political label or a test of belief—it’s a way of following Jesus that values curiosity, compassion, growth, and action.
1. Everyone is welcome—without conditions
You don’t have to have the “right” beliefs. You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t even need a strong religious background. If you’re exploring, doubting, or just curious—you’re welcome.
2. Faith and questions go together
You’re allowed to wrestle with scripture. Curiosity and questioning are a strength. Different perspectives are respected. So, don’t check your brain at the door.
3. Progressive doesn’t mean “anything goes.”
It means we take Jesus seriously – especially how he lived and loved. Compassion, inclusion, and standing up for what’s right shape how we worship, serve, and make decisions together.
4. Faith isn’t just about Sunday – it’s about how we treat people every day.
This is why social, racial, economic, and environmental justice matter to us. This church believes faith is meant to be lived, not just talked about.
5. You don’t have to agree on everything.
People arrive at faith in different ways, and we don’t depend on uniform beliefs. Shared values – love, justice, and grace – matter more than identical opinions.
As a progressive church, the United Church of Christ and the United Church of Rowayton support issues like LGBTQ+ Inclusion, separation of church and state, social justice (supporting the rights of all people), environmental justice (recognizing that it is a moral issue), and racial justice (addressing systemic racism and patriarchy within the church and society).
