What We Believe at Burke UMC

The Mission of Burke UMC

The mission of BUMC is to offer engaging worship, foster a deeper understanding of Christian faith, nurture meaningful relationships, and create a loving and inclusive community in Christ that works together to promote positive change in our world through social justice in action.

The Vision of Burke UMC

Our vision is to combine faith and action to become a beacon of hope and a living witness of God's love, both within our immediate community and reaching far beyond. We aspire to be a vibrant congregation that radiates love, inclusivity, and transformative impact.

The Values of Burke UMC

Radical Inclusivity:

Offers radical hospitality to everyone.

Affirms all people so that everyone feels seen, heard and loved.

Recognizes and honors the image of God in every human being.
Appreciates differences as representation of the Kingdom of God.

Authentic Relationships:

Exhibits personal authenticity, true respect, and validation of others.
Builds trust through listening emotionally and fostering empathy and compassion for others.
Tolerates ambiguity and acknowledges limitations, seeking to learn.
Acknowledges conflict or pain and works towards resolution.

Dynamic and Active Spirituality

Empowers individuals to develop a vibrant and authentic relationship with Christ.
Recognizes scripture reading, prayer, worship, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit as central aspects of our faith.
Encourages creative expressions of faith from diverse perspectives.
Gathers for regular fellowship, nurturing the needs of all who gather.

Faithful Community Engagement

Commits to justice with unyielding persistence and unwavering commitment.
Addresses systemic issues of injustice through informed action.
Builds cooperative relationships with other faith traditions.
Alleviates suffering due to poverty, hunger and homelessness by providing resources to those in need.

Our Welcome Statement

Welcome! We are a caring community from various backgrounds, drawn together by the love of God and the transforming message of Jesus. We believe all persons are of sacred worth and dignity as part of God’s creation and as demonstrated by the ministry of Jesus Christ. We welcome everyone without exception – everyone means everyone – regardless of age, race,
ethnicity, gender, family structure, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity,
economic background, political affiliation, physical or mental ability, faith history or life experience. We recognize among us differences in theology and biblical interpretation, and we covenant to accept, respect, and love one another along our faith journeys. We hold an unwavering commitment to alleviate suffering and confront the root causes of injustice through informed action and actively seek cooperative relationships with other faith communities.

Please join us, because wherever you are on life’s journey, there is a place for you here at Burke United Methodist Church!