What is a Christian?

“See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and that is what we are.”

Gospel of John 3:1

A Christian is someone who seeks to follow Jesus Christ.

Christians believe that Jesus is more than simply a great teacher or historical figure. We believe he is the Son of God, who came into the world to show us God’s love, to bring hope and forgiveness, and to draw people into a relationship with God. Being a Christian is not about being perfect. In fact, Christians are very aware of their mistakes, weaknesses and failings. At its heart, Christianity is about trusting in God’s love.

Christians try to learn from Jesus’ example: showing kindness and compassion, caring for those in need, loving our neighbours, seeking justice, and growing in faith through prayer and worship. We do this not because we always get it right, but because we believe that God is continually shaping and guiding us.

Christianity and Difficult Questions

We understand that many people approach Christianity with questions, concerns or even painful experiences.

Sometimes Christians and churches have failed to live up to the example of Jesus. Throughout history, and sometimes even today, Christian beliefs have been used to exclude, judge or wound people. Many people have experienced rejection because of who they are, what they believe, or the questions they have asked.

We do not pretend these experiences have not happened.

At the heart of the Christian faith is Jesus’ command to love God and to love our neighbour. Christians are called not to condemn, but to reflect God’s love, mercy and compassion towards all people. At St Michael and All Angels, we believe that every person is made in the image of God and is deeply loved by Him.

We are an affirming parish, and everyone is welcome here. We welcome people of every background, including LGBTQ+ people, whether they are exploring faith for the first time, returning to church after many years away, or have been Christians all their lives. We are also grateful for the ministry of women in the Church. Our own priest is a woman, and we celebrate the gifts and calling that women bring to every aspect of church life and leadership.

You do not need to fit a particular mould to belong here. God’s love is not reserved for a select few. It is offered freely to all. Like every church, we are not perfect. We are simply people trying to follow Christ and learn what it means to love one another more faithfully each day.

Why Do Christians Say Strange Things?

If you have spent any time around Christians, you may have come across words, prayers or traditions that sound a little unusual. Christians talk about things like sin, salvation, resurrection, baptism, or receiving the Body and Blood of Christ in Holy Communion. To someone hearing these ideas for the first time, they can seem strange, confusing or even unsettling.

In fact, many of Jesus’ teachings sounded strange to the people who first heard them. When Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood, many of his own followers responded, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” (John 6:60). Christianity has always invited people not only to listen, but also to ask questions, wrestle with difficult ideas, and discover their meaning over time.

Christians do not expect newcomers to understand everything immediately. Faith is something that unfolds gradually. Questions are welcome, and there is no examination to pass before you walk through the church door. Part of being a Christian is learning to explore these mysteries together, discovering how ancient words and traditions continue to speak in modern life.

What Do Christians Believe?

Although Christians come from many different traditions and backgrounds, there are some beliefs that unite us.

Christians believe that:

• God created the world and loves it powerfully
• Jesus Christ reveals God’s love to us in a unique way.
• Through Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, God offers forgiveness, hope and new life.
• The Holy Spirit is active in the world today, guiding and strengthening God’s people.
• Prayer matters, and God hears us when we pray.
• Death is not the end, and that through Christ there is hope beyond this life.

What Is Church For?

Christianity is not simply a set of beliefs held in private. From the earliest days of the faith, Christians have gathered together to worship, pray, learn from the Bible and support one another. The Church is not primarily a building, but a community of people seeking to follow Jesus together.

We also understand that stepping through the doors of a church can feel like a huge step. Perhaps you have never been before. Perhaps it has been decades since you last attended. You may be worried that everyone else knows exactly what they are doing while you do not.

The truth is that everybody starts somewhere.

At St Michael and All Angels, you will find a warm welcome. No one expects you to know the prayers, understand every part of the service, or have all the answers. Simply coming along, listening, asking questions and spending time with others is enough.

Could This Be For Me?

If you are curious about Christianity, you are not alone. Many people first begin exploring faith because they are searching for meaning, hope, belonging or purpose. Others simply have questions that they would like to discuss.

Whether you are exploring faith for the first time, returning to church after many years away, or wondering what Christianity might have to offer, we would be delighted to welcome you.

There is no pressure and no expectation. Come as you are. Join us for a service, a conversation, or simply a moment of quiet reflection. You may discover that God has been closer than you realised.

Or for more information you are warmly invited to get in touch.