Every family is unique.

While we hold some things in common with other growing churches, we embrace values and practices that contribute to our unique family identity. Here’s a sampling…

Where’s it written? - We believe this question is the starting point for all theological reflection. As we discuss controversial Passages of Scripture, our conversations remain both anchored (to God’s Word) and open (to insights and perspectives we may have never considered).

How goes your walk? – We believe Christ-likeness trumps religiosity as the true measure of spiritual maturity.

We major in the majors - If everything is important, nothing is.

We are intentionally intergenerational - We value multi-generational ministry.

We invest heavily in kids, teens and their parents – Study after study confirms our early years are our most formative.

We believe Pop Christianity isn’t Christianity – We avoid “Bible teaching” that fails to reflect the richness, mystery and nuance the Bible testifies to.

We appreciate sophisticated simplicity – We value great depth in uncluttered form.

We embrace the full witness of God’s Word - If all Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy  3:16-17), His full written revelation should inform our faith and conduct.

We don’t dodge the hard stuff – We don’t disregard Biblical Passages that stretch our neat little theological boxes or threaten our cultural norms.

We seek respectful, non-condescending discussions – When arguments begin, listening ends.

We embrace the vintage aspects of our faith – We keep an eye on the historic Church Calendar, embrace classic symbols, and include songs, prayers and practices that transcend history.

We talk like normal people – You can leave your Christianese to English dictionary at home.

We have short attention spans – So we value concise, innovative and creative communication.

We don’t think OK is OK – We never want our gatherings to feel like a show, but we whole-heartedly pursue excellence. This includes an attentiveness on our part to design, color and style.

We pay attention to detail – The little things say a lot.

We learn from the past – Why repeat lessons already learned (especially mistakes)?

We value continuous growth and improvement – The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step (in the right direction).

We love to laugh – When there’s no longer joy in the journey, we’ve lost our way.

We don’t think skeletons should have closets – We do our best to avoid mistakes, but we refuse to cover them up. Ugly church politics and hidden agendas likewise find no foothold here.

We are not space invaders – We hope you find us really, really friendly – not really, really intrusive.

Honesty doesn’t freak us out - ECC is a safe place to surface your questions, struggles, perspectives and doubts (we all have them).

We come as we are – There’s no need to dress up or dress down and it’s safe to check masks at the door.

We leave a bit changed – If what’s said and experienced can’t be applied – what’s the point?

We use the word “we” a lot – We’re all in this together.

We value grace – We’ll never forgive more than God’s already forgiven us.