Looking for a new deonomination or church ....

[Baby_Vol]

Hello!!

I'm new to this forum.

I'm here because I've recently become frustrated with my denomination as I don't feel that I fit it. So, I'm actively looking for a place where I do fit in ...just haven't found it yet.

Background:
Right now, I belong to the Southern Baptist Convention. However, I'm a liberal -- so I really don't fit in very well.

My beliefs:
Jesus is the way, the truth and the the life. I have a personal relationship with Christ, and that is the most important thing for me.
I believe Jesus taught love and inclusion. I'm fine with gay marriage (although not sure how I feel about it in the church itself ...still pondering that), I'm pro-choice and don't want to be bashed for that each Sunday, but I'm fine if others are pro-life in the church too. I believe helping the poor is very important ....and loving everyone no matter their differences. I do believe in tolerance and respect for others. I think women and men can both lead. Still, though, I think Christ should be the center of the Christian Church.

I believe in a "believers baptism" rather than baptism at birth .....in other words, you accept the faith as an individual when you come to age. I'd prefer to have that baptism by submersion, but I'm open to sprinkling.

So ....where should I go? What denomination should I check out?

I've been trying to research this on my own. I think a UU church is a little too liberal for me, but I know the SBC is too conservative for me ....I need a middle ground.

Thanks, in advance, for your help!!!

[Tradd]

Aren't there other Baptists that are a little more liberal than the SBC? I seem to remember reading about "American Baptist" before.

[woodchick]

You might want to look into the United Church of Christ. Each congregation is a bit different, but their website gives a fairly good overview.

I don't know what the heck is going on with the animation on the site...

[Adele_Mommy]

I second the American Baptist suggestion. They are much more liberal than Southern Baptist and they believe in doing good works and working for social justice and in believers' baptism. From what you write I suspect you might like American Baptist a lot. Here is a web site.

[Bluegoat]

One thing that strikes me is that you may have a problem finding a church that accepts a pro-choice stance, if that is really important to you. I can't think of any Christian ones that do - the best would be a denomination that isn't very active about the issue.

[EnviroBecca]

The Episcopal Church USA has an official position of "unequivocal opposition to any legislative, executive or judicial action on the part of local, state or national governments that abridges the right of a woman to reach an informed decision about the termination of pregnancy or that would limit the access of a woman to safe means of acting on her decision." Read the full resolution here.

We have priests of both genders and all sexual orientations.

We allow infant baptism, but it is very acceptable to wait until a child is old enough to understand what baptism means. It's done with a small amount of water poured onto the head.

Individual congregations vary, but in many you'll find both Christ-centered worship and lots of love, inclusion, service, and social justice.

[Adele_Mommy]

Originally Posted by Bluegoat

One thing that strikes me is that you may have a problem finding a church that accepts a pro-choice stance, if that is really important to you. I can't think of any Christian ones that do - the best would be a denomination that isn't very active about the issue.

Actually, there are lots of pro-choice Christian denominations. There is a Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice. According to this web page

The Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Church (USA), United Church of Christ, United Methodist Church, Unitarian Universalist Association, and Reform, Reconstructionist and Conservative Judaism all have official statements in support of reproductive choice as a matter of conscience, adopted by their governing bodies.

The American Baptists (the denomination I recommended above) takes a position that, while not explicitly pro-choice, respects the right of the individual to decide for herself whether to be pro-choice. I would not have recommended it and said the OP would be happy there if that were not the case. Here is the quote from the RCRC article We Affirm.

American Baptist Churches, USA, 1988

We grieve with all who struggle with the difficult
circumstances that lead them to consider abortion.
Recognizing that each person is ultimately responsible to
God, we encourage women and men in these
circumstances to seek spiritual counsel as they prayerfully
and conscientiously consider their decision…We also
recognize that we are divided as to the proper witness of
the church to the state regarding abortion…Consequently,
we acknowledge the freedom of each individual to
advocate for a public policy on abortion that reflects his or
her beliefs.
…We call upon American Baptist Congregations:

•

To challenge members to live in a way that models

responsible sexuality in accordance with biblical

teaching,

•

To expend efforts and funds for teaching responsible

sexuality,

•

To provide opportunities for intergenerational

dialogue on responsible sexuality and Christian life,

•

To provide relevant ministries to adolescents and

parents of adolescents in and out of the church.

[Stargirl]

Corny I know, but have your tried the Belieif-o-matic Quiz on Beliefnet.com? It can actually be a helpful tool as it gives you a top 20 based on your answers to 20 questions that you rate for importance.

Best of luck!

[Bluegoat]

Originally Posted by EnviroBecca

The Episcopal Church USA has an official position of "unequivocal opposition to any legislative, executive or judicial action on the part of local, state or national governments that abridges the right of a woman to reach an informed decision about the termination of pregnancy or that would limit the access of a woman to safe means of acting on her decision." Read the full resolution here.

We have priests of both genders and all sexual orientations.

We allow infant baptism, but it is very acceptable to wait until a child is old enough to understand what baptism means. It's done with a small amount of water poured onto the head.

Individual congregations vary, but in many you'll find both Christ-centered worship and lots of love, inclusion, service, and social justice.

As far as the Episcopal church goes, you are right about what they said, but they also said "All human life is sacred. Hence it is sacred from its inception until death." Now, as far as I can tell, the statement you quoted, which is more recent, isn't meant to repeal the earlier statement made in the late 80's. But, they seem to be rather confused on the issue - they allow for abortion as a possibility for medical reasons, but the statement about information doesn't say much about abortion itself only information regarding it.Altogether, not a very clear statement.

[Adele_Mommy]

Originally Posted by Bluegoat

As far as the Episcopal church goes, you are right about what they said, but they also said "All human life is sacred. Hence it is sacred from its inception until death." Now, as far as I can tell, the statement you quoted, which is more recent, isn't meant to repeal the earlier statement made in the late 80's. But, they seem to be rather confused on the issue - they allow for abortion as a possibility for medical reasons, but the statement about information doesn't say much about abortion itself only information regarding it.Altogether, not a very clear statement.

It sounds like maybe you are unclear on what "pro-choice" means. Pro-choice is NOT "Abortions are great! Everyone should have one! I think I'll try to get pregnant just so I can have one." Pro-choice is "I think everyone should have the right to choose for herself whether or not to have an abortion." Nothing that limits this right, including laws or not funding medical care is compatible with a pro-choice position. The statement "unequivocal opposition to any legislative, executive or judicial action on the part of local, state or national governments that abridges the right of a woman to reach an informed decision about the termination of pregnancy or that would limit the access of a woman to safe means of acting on her decision." is definitely pro-choice. It is not in any way unclear and it certainly does not indicate confusion. Statements about human life being sacred do not contradict this. A person can believe human life is sacred and still be pro-choice.

Just as another point, the Episcopal Church made this statement, which is virtually equivalent to the one quoted above -

That the Episcopal Church express its unequivocal opposition to any legislation on the part of the national or state governments which would abridge or deny the right of individuals to reach informed decisions in this matter and to act upon them.

- in a Resolution from 1976, which is titled "Reaffirm the 1967 General Convention Statement on Abortion", so it's not like this is a new position for the Episcopal Church.

[dislocator3972]

I would try either a non-denominational or something from the Acts 29 network. I think Acts 29 churches are technically non-denominational, but I'm not sure. In my experience, both churches are big on Romans 14:5 when it comes to controversial issues. ("Let each be confident in his own mind." Most practice believer's baptism, but if you wanted your babies baptized, they certainly aren't going to stop you. You're also likely to find other people who share moderate or liberal views on various political issues as well.)

Personally I've found that really helpful while I pondered the tough issues. And it's nice to know that I'm not the only person trying really hard to make an educated, thoughtful, prayerful decision. And it's always nice to feel like you're not the only one in the group voting however you do.

Good luck!

[jojoboy]

Sorry, but I just saw this thread.

So, I also recently changed churches. I don't really consider myself a denominational person, but just try to find a local church that feels right for me. I was baptized in a Southern Baptist church as a kid, went to a couple non-denominationals, also a charismatic Methodist. For me, it's really about the people and whether they can help you grow in love of God.

Where we are now, we love our local Lutheran church, which is part of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran something something). There are people with lots of different viewpoints (for example, during the election I knew people there who LOVED Sarah Palin, and people who were campaigning for Obama). There are pro-choice and pro-lifers at my church.

They are also pretty big into social issues - like helping the poor. This is the main focus for my church outside of the normal church activities.

They do baptize babies - and they can tell you why, but I spoke to my pastor about it and he was fine with what I decided for my kids. I had a baby 2 months ago, and nobody from the church has asked me why we haven't baptized him yet. They usually sprinkle the babies, but my pastor said that he had people request the full dunk (obviously older kids or adults), and they did a special ceremony for them and found a place to do that. For me, even though I believe in the Believer's Baptism, it's less of an issue for me since it not something that affects my everyday christian life, and doesn't really affect my interaction with the other people at the church. So I kinda decided to base my decision to join the church on factors that would affect my own spiritual growth and encourage me in love for God and other people as opposed to concentrating on what I thought was "right" or "wrong" about their doctrinal statement.

I would also say that the church is very inclusion minded. Here's a part of their statement on same-sex relationships:

While Lutherans hold various convictions regarding lifelong, monogamous, same-gender relationships, this church is united on many critical issues. It opposes all forms of verbal or physical harassment and assault based on sexual orientation. It supports legislation and policies to protect civil rights and to prohibit discrimination in housing, employment, and public services. It has called upon congregations and members to welcome, care for, and support same-gender couples and their families, and to advocate for their legal protection.

The ELCA recognizes that it has a pastoral responsibility to all children of God. This includes a pastoral responsibility to those who are same-gender in their orientation and to those who are seeking counsel about their sexual self-understanding. All are encouraged to avail themselves of the means of grace and pastoral care.

Like many churches, they haven't come out full in support of gay marriage, but I do like the desire to include same-sex couples in their congregations. You can read the whole 30 page document on human sexuality here.

This might be a nice balance for you.

Oh - you might also like a church associated with sojourners. They are a christian social justice organization. Here's their main website:

http://www.sojo.net/

And to search for a church
http://www.sojo.net/index.cfm?action=network.home

Good luck

[Callimom]

Originally Posted by Baby_Vol

Hello!!

I'm new to this forum.

I'm here because I've recently become frustrated with my denomination as I don't feel that I fit it. So, I'm actively looking for a place where I do fit in ...just haven't found it yet.

Background:
Right now, I belong to the Southern Baptist Convention. However, I'm a liberal -- so I really don't fit in very well.

My beliefs:
Jesus is the way, the truth and the the life. I have a personal relationship with Christ, and that is the most important thing for me.
I believe Jesus taught love and inclusion. I'm fine with gay marriage (although not sure how I feel about it in the church itself ...still pondering that), I'm pro-choice and don't want to be bashed for that each Sunday, but I'm fine if others are pro-life in the church too. I believe helping the poor is very important ....and loving everyone no matter their differences. I do believe in tolerance and respect for others. I think women and men can both lead. Still, though, I think Christ should be the center of the Christian Church.

I believe in a "believers baptism" rather than baptism at birth .....in other words, you accept the faith as an individual when you come to age. I'd prefer to have that baptism by submersion, but I'm open to sprinkling.

So ....where should I go? What denomination should I check out?

I've been trying to research this on my own. I think a UU church is a little too liberal for me, but I know the SBC is too conservative for me ....I need a middle ground.

Thanks, in advance, for your help!!!

UU is probably not a great fit. Have you looked into United Church of Christ? It might be a bit liberal for you as well from a theological standpoint depending on what you interpret the meaning of "Christ being the center of a Christian Church" to be. There was a thread about theologically liberal Christians recently - it might have some info for you.

Good luck!
Karen

[Callimom]

Originally Posted by Bluegoat

One thing that strikes me is that you may have a problem finding a church that accepts a pro-choice stance, if that is really important to you. I can't think of any Christian ones that do - the best would be a denomination that isn't very active about the issue.

The United Church of Canada's position could be considered pro-choice.

There's more info here on pro-choice/no official position demoninations.

[anjelika]

I second checking out the ELCA!

[Snugglebunnymama]

My first thought was Episcopalian.

Then when you mentioned believers' baptism, I thought 'non-denominational'. That should cover everything you believe, including pro-choice LOL (all depending on the church of course--some non-denom churches are very VERY conservative....while others are very progressive and contemporary.)

[indie]

These churches do immersion baptism and tend to be more liberal (but there are always particular congregations that are not).

Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
American Baptist
Cooperative Baptist


I personally am an Episcopalian after growing up in a denomination that does believers baptism by immersion. I think it was the most difficult belief to let go of, but I eventually did.

Also, you don't have to agree on everything in a particular church as long as they are open to people with different opinions. I am somewhat conservative on the abortion thing as far as Episcopalians go but I don't feel like there is not room for my viewpoint even if the official statement is not exactly as I would word it.

Also, I'd watch out for non-denominational churches. They are very, very often Southern Baptists in sheep's clothing. I've even had a pastor lie to me only to find out after six months that the church was Southern Baptist when one of the pastors had specifically told me they were not.

[aprildawn]

Baby Vol -- where do you live? While denominations are good to look at for a general understanding of what a specific church might be like, I find a lot of variety among congregations. I have some ideas of the type of church you might be looking for, but I can't recommend a specific denomination because these "emerging" (as they've been called) churches exist in many denominations. Some are more orthodox in their social beliefs and theology than others, while some are more liberal. Your combination of theological beliefs and social justice beliefs is common among people in this movement.

You might look here http://www.theooze.com/se/dir/Churches/

or here http://www.emergentvillage.com/cohorts/

or here http://theoriginsproject.org/

[Snugglebunnymama]

Also, I'd watch out for non-denominational churches. They are very, very often Southern Baptists in sheep's clothing. I've even had a pastor lie to me only to find out after six months that the church was Southern Baptist when one of the pastors had specifically told me they were not.

I was assuming that the OP would know to ask upfront..... IME, "non-denominational" churches are rarely *completely* non-denominational; if you dig deep enough, you'll find their "affiliation".

[lilyka]

honestly I have never met a non-denominatioinal church that wasn't ubber conservative. i think you would like something like methodist or presbitarian.