We Are Inclusive + Affirming // In Word + Action

So what sets Glendale apart from the next church down the street? Good question.

Most church website belief pages say some version of the same thing – or are vague enough in what they actually believe to appear to be welcoming of all people. However, once you get connected, you may come to find out that their welcome has a full stop – mainly for our LGBTQ+ siblings, and the noticeable lack of women and/or people of color in leadership. “You are welcome here” or “Everyone’s welcome” have become hollow phrases of invitation in far too many churches that end up causing harm.

If you are looking for a community of faith to actively be involved in – know that your gender, race, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity will NOT be barriers to the ways you feel led to serve and be involved here at Glendale.

You will find a growing inclusive and affirming community of faith that believes God’s love and grace are available for and shared with ALL people – no exceptions and no exclusions. You will find a group of imperfect people who don’t just go to church because that is what we are supposed to do, but who want to be together – not only in the good times, but in those challenging life moments we all experience as well.

As United Methodists, we believe that the living core of the Christian faith is revealed in scripture, illuminated by tradition, enlivened through personal experience, and confirmed by reason. In other words, there is no need to “check your brain at the door” when you walk through the open doors of Glendale. Bring your questions + doubts with you. And really, it is safe to assume that there are others already within our community who have some of those same questions + doubts that you do. You’ll find a safe space to explore those alongside us.

Historically, Methodists did not simply avoid evil in their own lives, they organized and worked with others to fight it as it appeared in the larger society. Following the roots of the Methodist movement, Glendale is committed to putting faith and love into action.

Our Statement of Faith:

At Glendale, we believe every person is of sacred worth and that discrimination in any form is incompatible with Christian teaching. We believe that Jesus has taught us how to receive and share love, grace, and mercy with all people.

We believe the the Spirit calls us to live according to the example of Christ. We therefore commit to cultivate inclusive love and intentional hospitality with all people, and welcome and affirm persons of every race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, faith story, education, physical or mental ability, or economic status.

We consider our diversity to be a gift from God that strengthens us to worship, learn and serve in Christ’s name.

Our Welcome Message // Read Aloud at Every Service + Event

 We at Glendale UMC want you to know that no matter:
Where you’ve come from or where you are going; what you believe or what you may doubt; what you are feeling or just not feeling; what you have or don’t have; and no matter the color of your skin, who you love or how you identify – all of who you are is welcomed into this community of faith by a God who knows you by name and loves all of who you are.