Worship Circles of Spirit, Art, and Story
When we say that you’re welcome here NO MATTER WHAT, we really do mean it. We’re not going to pull the rug out from under you once you walk in the door.
The Christian faith begins with wrapping your head and heart around that fact that you are unconditionally, irrevocably, ridiculously loved by God just as you are. As ambassadors of that love, Sanctuary UCC seeks to be a safe space for all of God’s children, no matter your age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or background.
Whoever you are, we hope you’ll join us!
A Spiritual Home for Seekers and Skeptics
At Sanctuary, worship doesn’t begin and end with pews, pulpits, and polished rituals. Our life together is woven through circles of conversation, creativity, and community where the sacred shows up in unexpected ways. Whether you’ve been part of church your whole life, have left church behind, or aren’t sure what you believe, Sanctuary offers a space where questions are honored, art is sacred, and community is real. Here, worship is not about performance but participation; not about having the right answers but making room for mystery, justice, and joy.
Come as you are. Bring your whole self. Find your place in the circle.
Here’s more about the ways we worship
frequently asked questions
Is this a cult?
Hardly! We’re a member of the United Church of Christ, the most progressive Christian denomination in the U.S. and the largest denomination in New England.
Are you going to make me feel bad about myself?
Hillside Community Church is a church centered in the radical and inclusive love of Jesus. Because we’re grounded in love like that, we will NEVER guilt trip you or make you feel ashamed of who you are.
Are you one of those crazy, Bible-thumping churches?
At Hillside Community Church, we take the Bible seriously but not literally. We do not believe the Bible to be inerrant or infallible. Rather, we follow generations of Christians in looking to the very human words of scripture for how God might be speaking to us in our current time and place.
For a fuller explanation of our view of scripture, you can check out this recent sermon on the topic.
Where is Sanctuary UCC?
Our church is located at the historic, Shiloh Baptist Church, 1 Holton Street in Medford, MA.
Some of our circles take place on-line, others at Shiloh Baptist, and still others at Arts Collaborative Medford. The location and details for each of our gatherings can be found on the Events Calendar.
What time does worship start?
Our Sunday Soul Circle starts at 8:30am. Other gatherings happen throughout the week. Check out the details for each on our Events Calendar.
What should I wear?
There is no dress code – come just as you are. If you are comfortable enough to walk around in public in what you’re wearing, you are dressed just fine!
What are your worship services like?
Not your grandma’s pews and pipe organ (though we love grandmas and pipe organs). At Sanctuary, worship happens in circles—sometimes with scripture, sometimes with art, sometimes with film, always with real conversation. Think candles and poetry, deep questions and belly laughs, justice and joy. No spectators. No dress code. Just an open space to meet God and one another in ways that surprise and sustain.
Do I have to bring money for an offering?
No, there is no formal offering taken during our worship services. However, we are a self-supporting congregation, If you are inspired by your time with us or our work in the community and would like to make a donation, you can make a secure online donation at sanctuaryucc.org/give
Can I take communion?
Yes! We believe that communion is a representation of Jesus’ radical, inclusive love. If you have a desire to know or experience this love, you are welcome to participate whenever we celebrate.
