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“There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
— Ephesians 4:4–6 (NIV)
At The Open Heart, we embrace a faith rooted in love, unity, and the shared truth of Christ. We believe that it does not matter whether you identify as Orthodox, Catholic, Evangelical, or from any other Christian tradition — what unites us is far greater than what divides us.
We affirm the Nicene Creed, the shared foundation of Christian belief across denominations. It shapes our understanding of God the Creator, Jesus Christ the Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit who moves and works through us. This shared creed is the heart of our faith — the essential truth that binds us as one body in Christ.
And when we speak of theological differences — whether in interpretation, doctrine, or church tradition — we see them as part of the richness and diversity of Christian thought, filled with the wisdom present throughout the whole Church. These differences are not barriers, but invitations to deeper dialogue and mutual respect.
Based on the teaching of Scripture, when God looks at His Church in the world, He does not see denominations or local churches formed through theological divisions — He sees one Church, stretching across continents, transcending cultures, with a long and rich history. We are part of that global and historic Church, even if we were born into it at a particular moment in history, in a specific place, and within a specific tradition.
We live by the guiding principle:
“In essentials, unity. In non-essentials, freedom. In all things, love.”
This is the spirit in which we walk together — diverse in expression, yet united in Christ.
What We Believe
What We Believe
The Bible is sacred and central.
The Bible is sacred and central.
We honor Scripture as a living word — inspired by God and filled with wisdom, truth, and beauty. We also recognize that it was written in specific historical and cultural contexts, and we believe it should be interpreted through the life and teachings of Jesus. We read and understand it not as a static rulebook, but as a dynamic invitation to walk in the way of Jesus — who embodied love, compassion, and justice.
Communion is union with Christ.
Communion is union with Christ.
We believe the Eucharist is not just a symbolic act or a memorial — it is a sacred mystery in which we are truly united with Christ:
“My body is real food, and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my body and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them.” (John 6:55–56)
In Communion, we receive the living presence of Christ and are strengthened in our journey of faith, abiding in God and God in us. This holy meal is a source of life, growth, and belonging.
We also recognize that some churches have at times denied queer people access to Communion. Yet we affirm this truth: God always welcomes us to the table. No priest or institution can stand between you and the love of Christ. We encourage everyone, especially those who have been told they are unworthy, to take a step forward with full confidence: you are loved, you are wanted, and God longs to be united with you.
Faith and queerness are not in conflict.
Faith and queerness are not in conflict.
We believe LGBTQ+ people are wonderfully made in the image of God. Our identities, relationships, and spiritual callings are holy. The Spirit speaks through queer voices, just as it has always spoken through the margins.
The Church is diverse and evolving.
The Church is diverse and evolving.
From ancient tradition to modern experience, the Church reflects many expressions of God's presence. We honor all who seek God sincerely, even as we challenge systems that exclude or wound.
The Holy Spirit is alive today.
The Holy Spirit is alive today.
We believe the Spirit continues to move among us — bringing healing, freedom, and new understanding. We trust that divine truth unfolds over time, especially where love leads the way.
Statement of Inclusion
Statement of Inclusion
We welcome everyone — regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, church background, or theological position — who seeks to walk with Christ in love and authenticity.
We believe there is room at God’s table for all.
You are not alone. You are not a mistake. You are beloved.
“Jesus is not embarrassed by our love. He is not scandalized by our truth. He meets us where we are — and walks with us toward life in abundance.”
- James Alison, Catholic theologian and openly gay priest
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