As a denomination, our statement of shared identity reads, “We are Disciples of Christ, a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world.  As part of the one body of Christ we welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us.”

 

Disciples affirm that Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and offers saving grace to all.  Jesus is the One who ties us together in shared faith and fellowship.   The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) seeks to move beyond denominational disagreements, toward a united church modeled on the New Testament. Each Disciples church has a unique structure, linked to the other Disciples of Christ churches by a covenant of voluntary cooperation. 

We also affirm that all persons are God’s children. All who wish to worship are welcome. All are welcome and encouraged to join at the Lord’s Table. 

Beliefs and Practices Associated with Disciples Include:

Open Communion
The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is celebrated weekly in worship.  It is open to all. 

Freedom of Belief
Disciples are called together around one essential of faith: belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. 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 the baptism of believers 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.  Disciples believe that, in Christ, we are called to unity, not uniformity.  Therefore, we welcome all people, striving to worship and serve together, and challenging each other to grow in faith and understanding of God, made known to us in Christ.

The Ministry of Believers
Both ministers and lay persons, women and men, lead in worship, service and spiritual growth.