Our Statement of Faith
History
The Orthodox Congregational Church in Lanesville (OCCL), otherwise known
as the Lanesville Congregational Church, is an evangelical church of
the reformed congregational tradition.
A member of the
Conservative Congregational Christian Conference
since 1966, our beginnings go back much farther.
Established in August of 1830 in response to the rise of Universalism among some of the parishes in Gloucester, our church continues to strive for a high standard of orthodoxy.
Organization of the Church
Consistent with Congregationalism, our church is
self-governed. The Pastors and the members of the various boards and
committees are elected annually by the members of our church. On the
third Sunday of every October, a meeting is held, by God's grace, to
vote on the direction in which the church should go during the coming
year. Along with the Pastors, Elders, Deacons and the Missions
Committee oversee the implementation of these directions.
The elders are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the church. Based on Moses' model of ten, each Elder is responsible to pray consistently and offer counsel when requested for about ten to twelve families. The Deacons oversee the physical well-being of the church; that is, to minister and care for the physical needs of the brethren, as well as the maintenance of the properties of the church. The Missions Committee is responsible for the oversight of the church's mission and evangelistic outreach programs.
Service of Worship
Our service of worship combines traditional and
contemporary styles with the goal being to bring honor and glory to
God. Emphasis is placed on the teaching of the Word of God and praise
through song. A sharing and prayer time fosters an atmosphere of
encouragement, so that together we might persevere in the faith.
The Lord's Prayer
Since August 27, 1978 our Church family has been praying The Lord’s
Prayer in a manner which is somewhat different from the customary
forms familiar to most believers:
Our Father who art in heaven: Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our coming day's bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into trial, but deliver us from the Evil One. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
A summary of references may be found here, and a more detailed treatment of the subject, here.