At Shawnee Church of the Nazarene we like to say this is a place where everyone is loved and belongs. We are intentionally intergenerational as our community spans every generation! As we gather in worship we make space for all generations in the songs that we sing, the ways that we preach, and the ways we care for others. We truly believe that we are called to share the Love of Christ and be a place where everyone is loved and belongs.
Our identity is found as beloved children of God and we desire to help other begin to move toward an understanding of this identity as well. We believe people are invited to respond to relationship with God because of the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. We believe that as a part of responding to the grace of God in our lives we are called to then share the love of God with others.
Matthew 28:19 says,
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Jesus shows us in his life what it means to welcome everyone into the kingdom of God. Jesus welcomed religious people and outsiders, rich and poor, the sick and the forgotten, society’s outcasts— We strive to follow the example of Jesus and to welcome everyone into the kingdom of God.
“Love each other like the members of your family. Be the best at showing honor to each other. Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic — be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord! Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer.
Contribute to the needs of God’s people, and welcome strangers into your home. Bless people who harass you — bless and don’t curse them. Be happy with those who are happy, and cry with those who are crying.
Consider everyone as equal, and don’t think that you’re better than anyone else. Instead, associate with people who have no status. Don’t think that you’re so smart.
Don’t pay back anyone for their evil actions with evil actions, but show respect for what everyone else believes is good. If possible, to the best of your ability, live at peace with all people.”
Romans 12:10-19
