Memorial Presbyterian Church

Authenticity

Hunter Camp

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Authentic. We hear the word all the time.

We’re told to be authentic. Live authentically. Work authentically. Believe authentically.

But what does the word authentic really mean?

Authentic is derived from two ancient Greek words: “autos” (self) and “hentes” (doer, being).

To be authentic is to radiate purposeful doing and being. It is to be oneself in the truest sense of the word. At MPC, we strive to be ourselves. This includes the reality that we are all broken vessels in need of God’s grace and one another’s compassion. On the journey of life, we need companions who can be themselves with us and us with them. We need companions to share our joys and struggles. We need companions to encourage us even as we encourage them.

At MPC, to be authentic means that we welcome those who harbor doubts and skepticism as well as deep faith—and none of this can really happen if we’re not being real. Authentic. None of this can happen if we aren’t being ourselves.

At MPC, to be ourselves is to express our need for God’s love that we see in Jesus. To be ourselves is to seek guidance from the Holy Spirit who dwells within each of us. To be authentic is to come together in community, for that is very often where we find the God of the universe.

If you are looking for community in whatever form, you are welcome at MPC. If you are a caregiver in need of support, grieving the loss of a loved one, or looking for a safe space to break the silence related to addiction and mental illness, you will find listening ears at MPC. We encourage you to connect with one of our Caring Ministries.

If you are looking for a place to ask tough or uncomfortable questions related to your faith, we invite you to ask them at MPC. We don’t always have the answers but we are always willing and ready to come alongside you as you seek them. You can contact a member of our leadership team here.

Rev. Dr. W. Hunter Camp, II
Pastor & Head of Staff