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Who are the Disciples of Christ?
The movement which became the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) began as an effort in the early 19th century on the American frontier to unify all Christians under the essentials of a New Testament faith. The founders emphasized a rational approach to scripture and a broad tolerance in non-essentials of faith and practice.
Each congregation is locally governed and is a member of the larger regional (Oregon) and general (North America) church by which we implement common ministries in service and education. There are over 4,000 Disciples churches in North America and more than 600,000 members. In addition, we have ministries in more than 50 countries around the world and cooperate with other denominations and agencies in dozens more.
Two distinguishing characteristics of Disciples are weekly observance of the Lord's Supper and baptism by immersion. Both stem from the conviction of our founders that if the church was to be united, then it must be around biblical practices. From the New Testament record it is apparent that the early church gathered for the breaking of bread on the first day of the week and used immersion as the primary form of baptizing new converts into the Christian faith. The centrality of communion in our worship has been incorporated into the Disciples logo which was initially conceived by a member of this congregation. The cross is that of St. Andrew and reflects both the Scottish roots of our founders and the evangelistic mission of the church.
We accept members into the church by confession of faith, transfer, or reaffirmation. All may be done during the normal worship service or by prearrangement with the minister. Confession of faith is normally followed by baptism on any succeeding Sunday. Transfer is used for those who would like to transfer their membership from another congregation to this one. Reaffirmation is for those who have been baptized and who currently do not have an active membership in any church. First Christian Church recognizes all forms of Christian baptism. Membership classes are offered every spring and fall for anyone wishing to learn more about our church and its beliefs.
Though Disciples of Christ do not have an official creed or doctrine, we do have a statement of faith which reflects the beliefs of our members. It states:
As members of the Christian Church,
We confess that Jesus is the Christ,
the Son of the living God,
and proclaim Him Lord and Savior of the world.
In Christ's name and by His grace
we accept our mission to witness
and service to all people.
We rejoice in God,
maker of heaven and earth,
and in the covenant of love
which binds us to God and to one another.
Through baptism into Christ
we enter into newness of life
and are made one with the whole people of God.
In the communion of the Holy Spirit
we are joined together in discipleship
and in obedience to Christ.
At the table of the Lord
we celebrate with thanksgiving
the saving acts and presence of Christ.
Within the universal church
we receive the gift of ministry
and the light of scripture.
In the bonds of Christian faith
we yield ourselves to God
that we may serve the One
whose kingdom has no end.
Blessing, glory and honor be to God forever. Amen
from The Design for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
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