At Union Creek, our beliefs shape how we worship, how we live, and how we care for one another. We’re part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), which means we hold to the rich tradition of Lutheran teaching while welcoming fresh expressions of God’s love in today’s world.
What We Believe
The “Ascension of Christ” painting is a centerpiece of the Union Creek Sanctuary. This piece of art was painted by Birger Sandzén, a Swedish immigrant who was Professor of Art at Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas.
Our beliefs aren’t just for Sunday, they shape how we live, serve, forgive, and care for others.
Faith is for Everyday
His life, death, and resurrection are the foundation of our hope and the reason we gather.
Jesus Christ is at the Center
We are made right with God not by what we do, but by what Christ has already done. This is the heart of Lutheran teaching: grace freely given, received in faith.
Saved by Grace Through Faith
We trust the Scriptures as the inspired Word of God, alive and speaking into our lives today.
The Bible is Our Guide
We believe in one God revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Our Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.
God is Three-in-One
What Grounds Us: Foundational Beliefs
- SCRIPTURE: The Bible isn’t just an old book, it’s God’s living Word. Through its stories and promises, God speaks truth, wisdom, and grace into our lives.
- BAPTISM: Through water and the Word, God welcomes us into the church, forgives our sins, and calls us beloved. Whether you’re a newborn or 90 years old, baptism is a sacred beginning to a lifelong journey of faith.
- HOLY COMMUNION: In the bread and wine of the Lord’s Supper, we receive the true body and blood of Christ, strengthening us in faith, forgiving our sins, and connecting us to believers across time and place. Grape juice is available for those who prefer not to receive wine.
How We Encounter Grace: The Word & Sacraments
Yes, the liturgy may be new if you’ve never experienced it, but it’s meant to carry you, not confuse you. Once you learn the steps, the service becomes something comforting, familiar, and deeply meaningful.
Our goal isn’t performance, it’s presence. God’s presence. And your presence, just as you are.
Our Worship: Living Faith Anchored in Tradition
At Union Creek, we strive to live by these values:
- FORGIVENESS & RECONCILIATION: We trust in God's mercy and aim to practice grace with one another.
- DIGNITY, COMPASSION & JUSTICE: Every person is created in God’s image. We work to uphold that truth in how we live and serve.
- INCLUSION & DIVERSITY: We welcome people from every walk of life. You belong here.
- OPENNESS TO GROWTH: We’re not perfect, but we’re learning. We embrace change when it helps us grow closer to God and each other.
Faith in Action
- We baptize infants and adults alike, celebrating that God’s love comes before we can even ask for it.
- Our children grow in faith through Sunday School, VBS, and youth events where they are taught, known, and valued.
- Teens are encouraged to take ownership of their faith through confirmation and community involvement.
- Adults gather in study, worship, and service, passing on faith through relationships, not just rituals.
- Seniors bring wisdom, memory, and deep spiritual roots that anchor our congregation.