*From the 2012 edition of the North Carolina Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice
God, the Father – We believe in one holy, almighty, and everlasting God who is the Creator of all things on earth and in heaven.
Jesus Christ, the Son – We believe in Jesus Christ as the beloved and only begotten Son of God. He was born of the Virgin Mary, lived as man and was crucified so that we may have redemption. He was buried and rose again on the third day where he ascended to heaven and now sits at the right hand of God. Jesus Christ is the sole Redeemer and Savior.
Holy Spirit – We believe in the presence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. This is the third and final part of the Godhead. The Holy Spirit, in unity with the Father, and the Son, guide our lives away from sin and into an eternal relationship with the Godhead. The Holy Spirit, by living in our hearts, opens our understanding of the Scriptures and strengthens our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Holy Scriptures – We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God given to man as a guide in Christian living.
Salvation – We believe in the universality of sin and therefore the need for repentance and salvation. Salvation is achieved through a personal faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. Through this relationship, the conviction of sin is awakened by the Holy Spirit causing a desire for reconciliation with God.
Light of Christ – We believe in every human soul there is a Light, the Light of Christ, which guides us through moral and spiritual influences. As described by George Fox, this light was called “that of God in everyone” explaining that every person has the influence of God within them. Sometimes, that Light is overshadowed by sin, pride, ignorance, or self-will.
Sacraments – We believe that baptism and communion are inward experiences. Friends believe that every time of worship ought to be a deep communion with God. Additionally, Friends believe one becomes baptized not with water but with the Holy Spirit. Friends do not belittle the use of the outward sacraments, we simply do not feel the need for them to receive salvation or engage in a personal relationship with Christ.
For more detailed information regarding the Faith and Practice of Friends (Friends Church of North Carolina, 2019), please click on the links below.