University Park
Church of the Brethren
University Park Church of the Brethren
Welcome to Our Church!
We are a congregation open to all
Feel free to explore our site, or to contact us if you have questions you’d like to ask. Join us for worship or activities to get to know us in person!
Who We Are
We at the University Park Church of the Brethren are diverse in our understanding and application of the Bible. This diversity reflects the richness of scripture itself and the ineffable mind of God. We believe that our shared experience in the church enriches the journey of our lives and helps to strengthen our faith.
All Are Welcome
We affirm our common humanity as children of God and embrace variety in color, culture, age, gifts, abilities, and perspectives. We welcome those of diverse socioeconomic circumstances, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationships, and family structures. We strive to provide an inviting and supportive community of faith and to affirm the dignity of every person.
We Are a Historic Peace Church
When you hear discussions on the "historic peace church," they are referring to three denominations of which we are one. The other two are Mennonites (which have connections to the Amish) and the Religious Society of Friends (often referred to as "Quakers"). Claiming Jesus as the "Prince of Peace," we feel we can do no other than to act in non-violent ways as we engage with the violent ways of the world.
Our Vision
Jesus calls us to walk humbly together in our shared humanity, serving those in need while confessing our own needs, living justly, and standing with the oppressed. Knowing that diversity can enhance strength, creativity, and vision, we welcome partners in ministry and new members from across the spectrum of human experience to help us follow Jesus’ call.
We Learn Together
During the Fall, Winter and Spring, we gather at 9:45AM for an intergenerational Sunday School time. Our varied life experiences, encounters with God, and insights are brought together in one room where we learn from and with each other. September 8th is our first class for the year.
It Takes All of Us
We believe in the "priesthood of all believers." That's theological lingo to say, "God has given each of us gifts to contribute to the whole." We may ride on different skateboards, but, at the end of the day, we're all pitching in to help God's kingdom draw more near. And, together, we celebrate and remember the One who gives us life and breath!
We Will Be Listening Through Lent
Please Join Us!
Lent Allows Us To Deal With Real Life As It Really Is
01
March 9th
Everyone needs a break from time to time.
Marissa Witkovsky will represent the theme of "New and Fresh Voices" while Pastor Phil is away.
02
March 16th
Some "complaining" may help us figure out our next steps. The sermon will be based on
Luke 13: 31-35. The message will explore that feeling we experience when, try as we might, things didn't turn out as we hoped/prayed.
03
March 23rd
Can we imagine a new way of being, even as we celebrate each of life's seasons that have brought us to where we are today? Isaiah reminds the people that God thinks differently than human beings. What can we do to not think like everyone else?
04
March 30th
Using
2nd Corinthians 5: 16-21 as the text for this Sunday, we will explore the role of wisdom and how it comes to us. Let's just say, "It often comes to us through difficult times." Or, as Rabbi Steve Leder puts it, "If you are going through hell, don't come out empty handed."
05
April 6th
John 12: 1-8 is the text for this Sunday. Mary shows us that love isn't afraid of how much it may cost. Using costly perfume to anoint Jesus' feet, Judas tried to reprimand her. But, Jesus responded with grace and kindness.
06
April 13th
"It is true: Love hurts. John Gorka, a musician wrote a song in 2003 called "Riverside." Some of the lyrics include these words: "If you have loved, then you have cried." We will look at the pain we feel during this sermon.
