Transparency & authenticity is part of our soul. Here's some of the common questions that we're frequently asked about Makers.
To begin with, we’re a Jesus-centered community. We view the Bible as a beautiful narrative that tells the radical, life-changing story of Jesus, teaches us how to be fully human, and gives us an opportunity to live a life full of beauty and belonging.
While we are deeply-rooted in the Jesus story, we also lean into our ever-changing world. Because of that, you'll hear us talk a lot about justice, science, history, politics, and equity, because all of that is deeply rooted in both the Scriptures and our human experience.
Outside of those essentials, you’ll probably find a diversity of perspectives within our community (we actually think that diversity is a good thing). If you’re wondering what our pastors believe on any number of questions, the best way to explore that is to watch a previous teaching or listen to one of our podcasts, or better yet, join us in person for a gathering.
There are some amazing church communities in the city of Portland. When the idea and dream of Makers was birthed inside of us, the first thing we told ourselves was that we are not the only ones contributing to the Jesus message in Portland. Our heart has always been to come alongside other churches who have been there before us and have paved the way for new expressions like Makers.
With that said, we know that Makers isn't a space for everyone.
Maybe Makers isn't for you - and we think that's totally fine. We want to go a step further and introduce you to some faith community in Portland that we've connected with and love, and may be a better fit for you:
Church of the City
The Common Place Church
Cascade Church
First Baptist Church of Portland
Great question! We call ourselves a community who is finding a full life and building a better world, and we have three essential spaces that are helping us grow into that identity: gatherings, tables, and streets. We have six cultural rhythms that describes how we practice the vision of mission of Makers.
Makers is a fully-inclusive faith community. No one is excluded from belonging, involvement, or leadership on the basis of their sexuality or gender identity.
Our LGBTQ+ community has the right to know what they can expect from us in terms of belonging, involvement, leadership, and marriage. You’ll find a wide spectrum of beliefs about questions related to human sexuality and gender identity, and we believe that agreement on these questions should not be the basis of our unity. We embrace questions and curiosities; but we will always rebuke any form of theology that hurts and marginalizes anyone.
We are on a journey to understand and include the radical belonging proclaimed by Jesus. We don’t place any restrictions, any exceptions, or any caveats when we say, “Everyone belongs here.” We welcome, honor, and celebrate all people—inclusive of race, ethnicity, age, faith history, belief system, economic status, sexual and gender identity, marital status, physical and mental ability, and education.
When you hear us say, "you belong", we mean that ALL of you belongs.
We want to express both gratitude and transparency: gratitude for all that God has done and all the ways you've been a part of this work, and transparency about finances, highs and lows, and other trends in our community. We hope you take some time to read through these reports and reflect on all the good that has happened in our midst, and to thank God for this community.
As always, if you have any questions about the information presented in the reports, please reach out to us on our contact page.
2021 Annual Report will become available in December.
NEWSLETTER
