WHAT WE BELIEVE

Midtown Collective began as a religious organization focused on creating spaces of belonging. What began as a small group in Sacramento, California has begun to evolve as a larger, online collective for everyone.

As the climate of our country continues to change, we saw the need for others throughout the country who may believe like we do about bodily autonomy, freedom from gender, the ability to marry any other adult you wish, and the gift of communing with God wherever you are. We believe so strongly in this, we penned our beliefs as our statement of faith. If you would like to join our church and express your right to religious freedom, it's incredibly easy. To be a member, you simply must do the following:
1. Tell us you want to join us. 
2. Read our statement of faith and let us know you align with some or all of it. Don't worry. The first part of our Statement of Faith begins with our refusal to argue over interpretations. 
3. Support us in any way you can. Whether it's through prayer or financial support (we ask that you give at least $5/month if you're able. If you can give more, we appreciate it. If not, pray for the Collective and the world. 

Below is our complete statement of faith. 

GUIDANCE THROUGH SCRIPTURE AND OTHER TEACHINGS
The Bible.We believe the Bible offers guidance for our lives and is a part of where we may find direction, inspiration, and understanding.
Other Texts and Teaching. Additionally, we look to other sacred writings for further understanding and clarification as we seek truth and guidance from our Creator. (2 Tim. 3:14-17) 
Translations. Given the vast differences in translations that vary from those translated to be most closely representative of the meaning of the original texts to those translated for grammatical correctness, we do not ascribe to any specific translation for personal or public use. 
Interpetation. We do not argue with others about their interpretation of text. God works to reveal things to each person at different times and in many ways. (Rom. 14:1-23)

THE DIVINE
The Godhead.We believe God is the Creator of all things, is all-powerful, all-knowing, and sovereign to do as They will. (Acts 14:15; Jer. 32:17). 
The Trinity. We believe that God is one, but reveals Themselves through the roles of the three: Creator God, Savior God, and Spirit God. Each of these manifestations is equally God. (1 Cor. 8:6; John 4:24)

WHO WE ARE IN GOD
Living from God’s Breath. We believe life begins with viable breath. (Genesis 2:7; Job 27:3)
Equal. We believe all humans are equal in God’s loving eyes. Since God created humankind in Their image, it is not for our Collective to determine who is right or wrong in Their eyes. (Mark 12:31; Prov. 22:2; Rom. 2:11; Mal. 2:10; James 2:8-9)
Given Privacy through God. We believe privacy is not only a man-made right, it is God-given. (Prov. 25:9-10; 1 Thes. 4:11)
We Have Bodily Autonomy. We believe we have bodily autonomy through the Spirit God. (2 Cor. 3:17; Psalm 118:5; John 8:32)
Not Defined by Gender. We believe God sees Their creation as being like Them and They are in all of us. (Col. 3:11; Gal. 3:28; Rom. 10:13)
Free to Marry Any Gender. We believe that God did not create us to be defined by gender. As a result, we see the definition of marriage not by God, but by man and do not ascribe to those man-made beliefs. If we are neither male nor female in God’s eyes, the argument of gender is moot. (Col. 3:11; Gal. 3:28; Rom. 10:13)
Free to Marry Any Race. We believe interracial marriage is not only support by scripture, it is also blessed by God. (Exod. 2:21; Acts 17:2)

RITES AND ORDINANCES OF OUR FAITH
Worship. We regard worship as a foundation upon which our faith stands. (Rev. 4:11)
Communion. The supper of the Lord Jesus was instituted by Jesus the night Christ was betrayed, to be observed unto the end of the world, for the perpetual remembrance and showing forth the sacrifice of Himself in His death, confirmation of the faith of believers in all the benefits thereof, their spiritual nourishment and growth in Him their further engagement in and to all duties which they owe Him; and to be a bond a pledge of their communion with Him and each other.

Anyone is welcome to participate in communion, but is not required for membership, and it can be observed using any elements, in any location, and offered by any member of Midtown Collective. (1 Cor. 11:17-34)