The Metropolitan Association of the New York Conference, United Church of Christ, and its members place a high value on coming together to build something greater than ourselves. Spiritual life and ministry find a nurturing ground here, as the Association focuses on empowering local church settings.
Led by our President, Yvette Wynn, we aim to make every local church vibrant and active in both their spiritual journey and outreach efforts. Volunteering for a good cause is a cycle of learning, contributing, growing, and sharing that lifts everyone involved. Imagine a place and people that welcome you, no matter where you are in life's journey. It is this open-hearted welcome that sets the UCC apart, creating a space where everyone can explore their faith without feeling like outsiders.
With roots that dig deep into history, this UCC and this association don't rely on a set, inflexible list of rigid rules or beliefs. No. Here it's about personal journeys and how each person's faith story adds to the community. For many people, it is refreshing to let go of checkpoints and embrace a more personalized approach to spirituality.
Diversity shines brightly in the UCC and the Metropolitan Association, making it a hub for people from diverse backgrounds. So, whether you're coming from a different culture or identifying in a variety of ways, the Metropolitan Association has a place for you. A metaphor that best summarizes who we are, the Metro association is like a big spiritual melting pot, and everybody gets a spoon.
UCC isn't your ordinary quiet-faith vibe. It is a living faith inspiring us to seek active change and an unwavering commitment to advocate for justice and equality. The typical UCC member's deep spirituality fuels a passionate activism, driving us to work tirelessly for justice and peace. In a constantly changing and evolving world, the Metro Association firmly holds onto a belief in a 'Living God' while diving headfirst into the pressing social issues of today. We consider ourselves a bridge, connecting age-old faith with the modern challenges that shape our lives, communities, and the world. We are out in the world, sleeves rolled up, making actual and impactful differences, not just preaching about it from the safety of our sanctuaries.
Our churches support a wide range of local, state, and national initiatives. From community outreach programs to advocating for individual rights, promoting equality in local, state, and federal systems, and environmental sustainability, the Metropolitan Conference is at the forefront in our church's communities, leading these bold moves and transforming beliefs into action that benefits everyone. By building bridges through partnerships with other faith institutions, the Metro Association promotes unity that transcends denominational and religious boundaries. Collaborating for a cause bigger than ourselves and our churches means breaking down walls and finding common goals and common ground, working together to address shared community needs.
However, dedication and commitment are not reserved for pastors or those in leadership roles. Communication and commitment thrive between ordinary church members in local settings, as they partner with local leaders and fellow engaged citizens to address community issues, empowering every person to join the social change movement. It's a community effort, focused on equipping individuals with the tools they need to advocate for justice.
We are the United Church of Christ of the Metropolitan Association of the New York Conference, and, as a popular UCC saying goes, "In essentials- unity, in non essentials-diversity, in all things- charity."