Who we are

A pilgrim people

—seekers and learners in spiritual matters, in pursuit of authenticity, wholeness, and faithfulness. God never fails to respond to sincere hearts and inquiring minds.

In a historical sense, the United Church of Christ traces its roots to the pilgrims who came to the shores of the New World in 1620. We were known as congregationalists, recognizing the autonomy of the independent church. In 1852 we became the first church established in Syosset, New York.

A progressive ministry

—that takes the Bible seriously, but not literally. We acknowledge its historicity as inspired testimony of a people called by God, and believe that God has more light yet to be revealed.

We look to Jesus of Nazareth, who became the Christ, as our means for understanding what it is to be authentically human. We believe that the truth which Jesus embodies and leads us to is a truth other religions point to as well. We earnestly pursue interfaith dialogue to discover our unique origins, celebrate what we share in common, and transcend our differences.

A passionate community

—deeply committed to peace, justice, and the alleviation of suffering through compassion and wisdom. We welcome people of all races, nationalities, abilities, gender identities, and sexual orientations into every aspect of church life and ministry.