First Christian Church

BASIC BELIEFS OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH (Disciples of Christ)

Disciples’ life is centered at the table. Through communion, we are connected to one another and to God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Following the earliest tradition of the church, we demonstrate our commitment to God by dramatic action, letting the waters of our baptism give witness to God’s grace upon us.

Recognizing that the traditions of the whole church are many and varied, we do not insist that our baptismal practice is the only one that is valid. We know that baptism is God’s action far more than our own.

AN ATTITUDE OF TOLRANCE AND A REJECTION OF CREEDS AS TESTS OF FAITH

We celebrate diversity as strength rather than weakness, and do not expect everyone’s interpretation of the Bible or the Christian life to be identical.

We believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God and is best heard and understood within the community of faith with the diverse insight that context provides.

THE INCLUSION OF THE LEADERSHIP OF WOMEN

We believe that God provides spiritual gifts to all and do not restrict any office or role in the life of the church by gender.

Aside from performing weddings which is regulated by the state, lay persons in our church are permitted and encouraged to all things, including presiding and offering the Eucharistic prayers at the Lord’s Table, often restricted to ordained clergy in other denominations.

We set educational and professional standards for ministers – licensed and ordained, and hold our clergy to ethical accountability through denominational oversight.

Disciples earnestly pray and strive for the unity of the church and attempt to work in ways that bridge the separation of Christ’s body.