A website for friends and members of the Smyrna United Church of Christ 

Our Mission Statement

Smyrna United Church of Christ is striving to be:

Tradition

From the local wood that was fell to make our pews to the loved ones who are buried in our cemetery, we value being surrounded by our history.  But, we also believe that our traditions can link us with the unknown future.  We are curious to see how God will call us to interpret our faith and mission, blending our past with the future, as we grow more faithful in the new century.

History of the United Church of Christ

The United Church of Christ came into being in 1957 with the union of two Protestant denominations:  the Evangelical and Reformed Church and the Congregational Christian Churches.  Each of these was, in turn, the result of a union of two earlier denominations.  Our denomination claims 1.4 million members in 6,000 local congregations.  All members of the United Church of Christ are called to minister to others and to participate as equals in the common worship of God.  Our ordained clergy guide us, instruct us and enable our ministry as Christians, rather than do the work of ministry for us.

History of the Smyrna United Church of Christ

Our church was formed in 1891 by homesteaders in the Yoder area.  Today, some of their descendants, as well as other area Christians, worship together in our historic sanctuary.  What ties us together is a respect for diverse religious beliefs, the right of each person to come to her or his own conclusions about God and Christ, the need to study and worship together, and a common desire to act for the well-being of others.  We value our traditions, but are also open to the spirit's ongoing revelation --- evidenced by our inclusive language and openness to diversity in church leadership.

The name "Smyrna" comes from Revelation 2:9 making reference to being "poor in material wealth but rich in spirit".

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