About Holy Covenant United Church of Christ | Rooted in Love

The United Church of Christ (UCC) is a distinct and diverse community of Christians that come together as one church to join faith and action.  With over 5,000 churches and nearly one million members across the U.S., the UCC serves God in the co-creation of a just and sustainable world.  The UCC is a church of firsts, a church of extravagant welcome, and a church where “…they may all be one” (John 17:21).

Today, we continue to change lives throughout the world. We work alongside more than 200 mission partners. We labor ceaselessly to fight injustice, in the United States and abroad. We instill our vision into our youth and young adults, forging leaders who will imagine new dreams. And we sustain and develop church leaders, pastors, and our local churches to live their faith in exciting new ways.  We believe in a God that is still speaking, a God that is all-loving and inclusive.  We are a church that welcomes and accepts everyone as they are, where your mind is nourished as much as your soul.

We are a church where Jesus the healer meets Jesus the revolutionary, and where together, we grow a just and peaceful world.

The United Church of Christ

We believe in the triune God: Creator, resurrected Christ, the sole Head of the church, and the Holy Spirit, who guides and brings about the creative and redemptive work of God in the world.

We believe that each person is unique and valuable. God’s blessing and embrace of each person is best known in a family of faith where they have a strong sense of being valued and loved.

We believe that each person is on a spiritual journey and that each of us is at a different stage of that journey.

We believe that the persistent search for God produces an authentic relationship with God, engendering love, strengthening faith, dissolving guilt, and giving life purpose and direction.

We believe that all of the baptized ‘belong body and soul to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.’ No matter who – no matter what – no matter where we are on life’s journey – notwithstanding race, gender, sexual orientation, class or creed – we all belong to God and to one worldwide community of faith. All persons baptized – past, present and future – are connected to each other and to God through the sacrament of baptism. We baptize during worship when the community is present because baptism includes the community’s promise of ‘love, support and care’ for the baptized – and we promise that we won’t take it back – no matter where your journey leads you.

We believe that all people of faith are invited to join Christ at Christ’s table for the sacrament of Communion. Just as many grains of wheat are gathered to make one loaf of bread and many grapes are gathered to make one cup of wine, we, the many people of God, are made one in the body of Christ, the church. The breaking of bread and the pouring of wine reminds us of the costliness of Christ’s sacrifice and the discipleship to which we are all called. In the breaking of bread, we remember and celebrate Christ’s presence among us along with a ‘cloud of witnesses’ – our ancestors, family and friends who have gone before us. It is a great mystery; we claim it by faith.

We believe the UCC is called to be a united and uniting church. “That they may all be one.” (John 17:21) “In essentials-unity, in nonessentials-diversity, in all things-charity,” These UCC mottos survive because they touch core values deep within us. The UCC has no rigid formulation of doctrine or attachment to creeds or structures. Its overarching creed is love. UCC pastors and teachers are known for their commitment to excellence in theological preparation, interpretation of the scripture and justice advocacy. Even so, love and unity in the midst of our diversity are our greatest assets.

We believe that God calls us to be servants in the service of others and to be good stewards of the earth’s resources. ‘To believe is to care; to care is to do.’

We believe that the UCC is called to be a prophetic church. As in the tradition of the prophets and apostles, God calls the church to speak truth to power, liberate the oppressed, care for the poor and comfort the afflicted.

We believe in the power of peace, and work for nonviolent solutions to local, national, and international problems.

 We are a people of possibility. In the UCC, members, congregations and structures have the breathing room to explore and to hear … for after all, God is still speaking, …

Our community is a place of extraordinary warmth, inclusivity, and belonging, where everyone is truly welcome. With members from across the greater Charlotte area, we come together on Sunday mornings, but our connections extend far beyond that. We are always seeking new ways to nurture a diverse and inclusive faith community where everyone feels at home.

Many of our members find deeper connections through our Covenant Groups—small, close-knit gatherings of 10-15 people who meet monthly for dinner or shared activities. Others engage in lively book discussions or cultivate community and generosity in our Community Garden, which provides fresh food for hunger programs in Charlotte.

No matter your background or interests, you will find open arms, kindred spirits, and meaningful friendships here. You belong!

At Holy Covenant, we cherish the extraordinary warmth and inclusivity that define our community. One of our greatest joys is the beautiful diversity of theological perspectives among us. We come from a wide array of backgrounds and religious traditions—and many of us are still exploring, questioning, and seeking deeper understanding. Here, that curiosity is celebrated.

No matter where you are on your journey, you’ll find an open and welcoming space to explore your faith. Whether through engaging book and Bible studies, meaningful volunteer opportunities, or heartfelt one-on-one conversations, you’ll discover countless ways to connect and grow. Our community also includes UCC clergy who have retired to the area or serve in ministries beyond the local church, and they, too, are eager to share in the dialogue and embrace big questions with you.

At Holy Covenant, you belong—your experiences, your doubts, your dreams, and your beliefs. Come as you are. You are truly welcome here.

Holy Covenant may be a small congregation, but our commitment to social justice, racial equity, inclusivity, and diversity runs deep. We believe in taking action when we see a need, without waiting for permission to make a difference.

Our members are passionate advocates for a more just and compassionate world, actively working to uplift marginalized communities and create meaningful change.

At Holy Covenant, we joyfully embrace the uniqueness of every individual and the shared humanity that unites us all. We extend God’s extravagant welcome to everyone, affirming and celebrating people of all sexual orientations, gender identities, backgrounds, and walks of life as part of God’s Beloved Community.

Rooted in faith and love, we strive to follow the example of Jesus through our words and actions, creating a space where all are valued, seen, and embraced. In 1985, the General Synod of the United Church of Christ (the UCC’s national, representative governing body) affirmed this commitment by encouraging local UCC congregations to become “Open and Affirming,” ensuring that all feel at home in God’s love.

On July 9, 2000 — after a year of prayerful discussion — the members of Holy Covenant adopted the following Covenant of Openness and Affirmation —

We of Holy Covenant United Church of Christ affirm Christ’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves, and to reach out to all people, including those who have experienced oppression, discrimination, isolation, and ostracism.

We accept the call from the General Synod for congregations to form a Covenant of Openness and Affirmation. We recognize the destructive power of homophobia in our society and among Christians. We seek to act as agents of reconciliation and wholeness within the world, within the Church Universal, and within our congregation. We affirm that all are worthy of love and declare ourselves welcoming to persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities who seek to live in loving relationships.

Therefore, we of Holy Covenant United Church of Christ declare ourselves to be an Open and Affirming Congregation, welcoming into the full life and ministry of this family of faith persons of every sexual orientation and gender identity. We join together as a covenantal community to celebrate and share our common communion with the reassurance that we are indeed created by God, reconciled in Christ, and empowered by the grace of the Holy Spirit.

We are a Progressive Church

People come to church for many reasons. Some have been part of a faith community their whole lives and are looking for a new church home. Some are seeking a spiritual foundation for their children. Others are exploring faith for the first time or searching for a place where they truly belong. Some long for a more open, inclusive expression of Christianity—one that embraces diversity, welcomes questions, and nurtures the soul.

Whatever brings you here, Holy Covenant is a place where you are welcome. Here, you’ll find a community that values connection, supports each person’s faith journey, and strives to reflect God’s love in the world. Whether you are searching, questioning, growing, or simply seeking a place of comfort and belonging, you have a place with us. Holy Covenant is a wonderful church home, no matter why you choose to be a part of a faith community. We invite you to come as you are and journey with us in faith, love, and hope.

Everyone belongs here. No matter where you are on your journey of faith, we want you to feel at home in our community. From the moment you arrive, we strive to make sure you feel welcomed, supported, and comfortable.

Our space is designed with accessibility in mind—handicapped parking, wide zero-step entryways, and large-print bulletins to help ensure that everyone can fully participate. Our restrooms are accessible, and service animals are always welcome. If you or your children have specific needs, please let us know. We want to make your time with us as easy and meaningful as possible.

You are not just welcome here—you belong.

Founded in 1916 in uptown Charlotte as First Reformed Church, Holy Covenant is a proud member of the United Church of Christ (UCC)—a progressive Protestant denomination rooted in a legacy of faith, justice, and inclusion. The UCC was formed through the merger of four historic American faith traditions, with a heritage that traces back to the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth Rock. These early Congregationalists sought religious freedom, guided by a deep commitment to following God as their conscience led them.

Today, the UCC remains dedicated to a bold and prophetic vision: that God is still speaking, calling us to seek justice, love unconditionally, and extend radical welcome to all. Holy Covenant fully embraces this calling, building on our tradition of being among the first to affirm and celebrate the gifts of all God’s people—women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and others who have been marginalized.

Guided by Christ’s teachings, we are deeply committed to social justice, striving to create a world that reflects God’s vision of love, equity, and dignity for all. Whether advocating for racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, economic equity, environmental stewardship, or immigrant justice, we actively seek to be a voice for the voiceless and a force for transformative change in our community and beyond. In our worship, service, and daily lives, we strive to embody God’s boundless love and work toward a more just and compassionate world.

At Holy Covenant, you are welcome, you are valued, and you belong—just as you are.

History of the United Church of Christ

The Western North Carolina Association (WNCA) is one of three Associations within the Southern Conference of the United Church of Christ, comprising 65 diverse and dynamic congregations across four program districts. Rooted in the values of inclusivity, social justice, and progressive Christianity, WNCA is committed to fostering communities where all people are affirmed, empowered, and equipped to live out their faith in meaningful ways.

Guided by a deep commitment to justice, equity, and radical welcome, WNCA works to uplift marginalized voices and advocate for systemic change that reflects God’s love for all. Our professional staff, in collaboration with dedicated commissions and committees, provide resources, support, and leadership development to strengthen the spiritual and communal life of our congregations.

Through mission-driven initiatives, WNCA encourages congregations to engage in transformative ministries that promote racial justice, LGBTQ+ inclusion, environmental stewardship, and compassionate service. We celebrate the rich diversity of our churches and strive to create spaces where all individuals—regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or ability—can fully participate in the life of the church and the broader community.

Together, we seek to embody the gospel’s call to love, serve, and work for a just and inclusive world.

UCC Western North Carolina Association