"Dear God" released in 1986 by XTC, written by frontman Andy Partridge took the radio by storm. Causing religous boycotts and anti-religious fervor to break out in the US and UK. But in this song is the honest questions many of us have about faith in God and the problem of suffering. Listen along as Pastor Rich Vreeland of Missiongathering explores just what this controversial new wave hit can teach us all about God.

Dear God

Vision Statement: 

Missiongathering is a Progressive, Inclusive, and Anti-Racist Christian Church.  Our vision is to be a space for healing, authentic relationships, and service to our local community.  Our approach to faith and spirituality is less about doctrine or dogma, and more about living life fully and abundantly, which we believe to be impeccably modeled in the way of Christ.  

What we mean by Progressive: 

We embrace an open-handed approach to Christian theology. We interpret scripture through the lens of Christ-like love, empathy, and our continually evolving understanding of the world.  Our community is a safe and welcoming space for wherever you might be in your spiritual journey, including those who are going through a deconstruction or faith shift.  

What we mean by Inclusive:

We practice the inclusion and empowerment of all who have been historically excluded and disempowered in church communities, including women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ persons. Rather than simply “welcoming" to these individuals, we fully affirm and celebrate their identities, allowing full membership and leadership.  Missiongathering Bellevue is a part of the Disciples of Christ, who historically practice an “open table”, where all are welcomed and invited to participate in the sacrament of communion, regardless of their background or spiritual beliefs.  

What we mean by Anti-Racist: 
We resonate with Angela Davis’ statement:  “In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist”.  We strive to be a multicultural community that is a resource for racial justice and racial healing.

Religion & Spirituality

Vision Statement: Missiongathering is a Progressive, Inclusive, and Anti-Racist Christian Church. Our vision is to be a space for healing, authentic relationships, and service to our local community. Our approach to faith and spirituality is less about doctrine or dogma, and more about living life fully and abundantly, which we believe to be impeccably modeled in the way of Christ. What we mean by Progressive: We embrace an open-handed approach to Christian theology. We interpret scripture through the lens of Christ-like love, empathy, and our continually evolving understanding of the world. Our community is a safe and welcoming space for wherever you might be in your spiritual journey, including those who are going through a deconstruction or faith shift. What we mean by Inclusive: We practice the inclusion and empowerment of all who have been historically excluded and disempowered in church communities, including women, people of color, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ persons. Rather than simply “welcoming" to these individuals, we fully affirm and celebrate their identities, allowing full membership and leadership. Missiongathering Bellevue is a part of the Disciples of Christ, who historically practice an “open table”, where all are welcomed and invited to participate in the sacrament of communion, regardless of their background or spiritual beliefs. What we mean by Anti-Racist: We resonate with Angela Davis’ statement: “In a racist society, it is not enough to be non-racist, we must be anti-racist”. We strive to be a multicultural community that is a resource for racial justice and racial healing.

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Dear God

Dear God