Disciples of Christ? What's that?
We are a congregation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is the first Protestant movement founded on American soil. It was born out of a backlash against rigid Presbyterian dogma and sectarianism in the 1800s. From those beginnings, the Christian Church has grown through the years to over 900,000 members, and continues to be one of the most open, informal, and diverse Protestant denominations.
The Vision of The Disciples of Christ is: To be a faithful, growing church, that demonstrates true community, deep spirituality, and a passion for justice.
The mission of the Disciples of Christ is to be and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ witnessing, loving, and serving from our doorsteps to the end of the earth.
The Disciples of Christ is a congregational denomination. Each congregation is unique. Some beliefs and practices that are typical in Disciples Churches are:
- Open Communion. The Lord's Supper, or Communion is celebrated in weekly worship. It is open to all.
- Freedom of belief. Disciples are called together around one essential of faith: belief in Jesus Christ. Persons are free to follow their consciences guided by the Bible, the Holy Spirit study and prayer, and are expected to extend that freedom to others.
- Baptism by immersion. In baptism the old self-centered life is set aside, and a new life of trust in God begins. Although Disciples practice baptism by immersion, other baptism traditions are honored.
- Belief in the oneness of the church. All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to seek opportunities for common witness and service.
- The ministry of believers. Both ministers and lay persons lead in worship, service and spiritual growth.
- A belief that all persons are God's children.