“If only these walls could talk.” That saying comes to mind as we approach the Aurora Church of the Nazarene. This church, part of the Church of the Nazarene, stands as a testament to faith and community. Its core beliefs are rooted in the Bible.
The Aurora Church of the Nazarene believes in God. They see God as the Creator and Ruler of the universe. God exists as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three are equal and one.
The church also believes in Jesus Christ. He is the Son of God and equal to the Father. Jesus lived a sinless life and sacrificed himself for all. He died on the cross. God raised him from the dead. Jesus will return to reign as King.
The Holy Spirit is also a key belief. The Holy Spirit is equal to the Father and Son. He makes people aware of their need for Jesus. The Spirit lives in every Christian and gives them power. He guides them to do what is right and gives them spiritual gifts.
The Aurora Church of the Nazarene considers the Bible God’s Word. Human authors wrote it under the Spirit’s guidance. It is the supreme truth for Christian beliefs. Because God inspired it, it contains all truth needed to live a Christian life.
The church believes people are made in God’s image. People are the supreme object of God’s creation. Yet, all are marred by sin. Sin separates people from God.
Salvation is God’s free gift. People must accept it. Only by trusting in Jesus can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty. New life begins when one receives Jesus by faith.
The Aurora Church of the Nazarene knows the Christian life is lived out practically. Letting Christ be Lord is the start of a God-pleasing life. Believers surrender to God. The Holy Spirit cleanses and empowers them to live effectively. Scripture calls this holiness.
People were created to exist forever. They will either exist eternally separated from God by sin. Or eternally with God through salvation. To be separated from God is Hell. To be in union with Him is eternal life. Heaven and Hell are real places.
The First Church of the Nazarene in Wallingford built in 1952, stood for over seventy years. It was a beacon of hope. The building was too large and needed too many repairs. The denomination sold it to invest in other ministries in Seattle. Dick’s Drive-In also purchased a portion of the property.
Many have fond memories of the First Church of the Nazarene. One person was the first baby dedicated there. Another remembers a lesson about letting your light shine. A pastor used a flashlight to illustrate. Still another couple was married there.
The First Church of the Nazarene may become a distant memory. But it offered hope and solace. It will be missed but not forgotten.
The Aurora Church of the Nazarene carries on this legacy of faith. It offers community and a place to connect with God. Join them Sundays at 10:00 am in person or online.