What We Believe
We believe in God, in God’s Word, and in God’s Grace
What we believe shapes who we are
People usually want to know what we believe before they come worship with us. We created this page to answer all your questions, so read on!
Union Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA), offering an open, caring, and compassionate community in which people from all walks of life can find spiritual growth and fellowship. We embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ and are dedicated to serving our community through various outreach programs, providing a place of love and understanding for all.
Join us at Union Presbyterian Church for inclusive worship services that nurture your spiritual journey. Grow in faith with our loving and diverse congregation.
Reformed and Always Reforming
As part of the Presbyterian Church (USA), UPC follows the Reformed tradition. A key motto of this tradition, popularized by Swiss theologian Karl Barth, is “Ecclesia reformata semper reformanda est,” which means “the Reformed church must always keep reforming.”
We believe in God
We believe in one God, who exists forever in three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is fully God and fully human: the eternal Son of God. “God of God, Light of light, very God of very God.” We also believe that the Holy Spirit is God, active in our world today, indwelling and empowering the church in its mission. Yet these are not three gods, but one eternal God.
We believe in the Word
The scriptures uniquely point to Jesus Christ, the Word of God Incarnate. Through the Holy Spirit, God guides us to keep reforming and listening closely, fulfilling our mission as Jesus’s followers.
We believe in the Sacraments
The Sacraments of Baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper) are much more than just symbols or bare signs. Through the Holy Spirit, they bring, confirm, and share the grace they represent. Baptism, by the power of the Holy Spirit, cleanses us from sin and marks our entry into the visible church. In the Eucharist, through the Holy Spirit, we share in the Body and Blood of Christ, which nourishes us spiritually and helps us grow in grace.
We believe in Grace
Grace is unmerited favor. It cannot be earned. “You are saved by God’s grace because of your faith. This salvation is God’s gift. It’s not something you possessed. It’s not something you did that you can be proud of.” (Ephesians 2:8-9, CEB).Baptism and the Eucharist are significant Means of Grace. Additionally, the reading and preaching of scripture, along with prayer, are also Means of Grace.
Our Symbols: Lectern, Pulpit, Font, and Table
When you enter our worship space, you’ll see key symbols of Grace: the Word (lectern and pulpit), the Sacraments (font and table), and Prayer (which happens from all four spots) in the chancel, at the front of the church.
Learn More
To learn about our Presbyterian beliefs, check out these articles on our denomination’s site.
Discover the Beauty of Faith and Community at Union Presbyterian Church
Welcome to Union Presbyterian Church, an open and caring community in Fort Madison, Iowa. We invite you to deepen your faith, experience heartfelt worship, and find a place where you are loved and valued.
