Five Reasons to Join the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a non-creedal church based in the United States. Considered one of the most ecumenical of all denominations, this church brings together a number of elements found in different denominations, making it an tradition worth considering. Here are a few reasons why.

FAITH AND ACCEPTANCE OF JESUS CHRIST

Disciples of Christ do not require allegiance to any creed in order to become a member of the church. Those wishing to join are asked if they accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. An affirmative answer is all that is required.

WEEKLY CELEBRATION OF THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Disciples see the opportunity to partake of the Lord's Supper as central to the worship experience. Each week, Disciples gather together and celebrate Christ together, with some seeing the time as the chance to evaluate their stewardship of the past week, and rededicate themselves to following Christ. All Christians are invited to participate in this celebration, regardless of denominational affiliation.

LAY MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE

While professional clergy are important to the Disciples of Christ, equal emphasis is placed on the work of local elders and others in the life of the congregation. This combination of full-time and lay ministry provides opportunities to serve in ways that are hard to find in other denominations.

CONGREGATIONAL AUTONOMY

The Disciples of Christ see the local congregation as the most important gathering of the body. All organizational units above congregational level are structured to support the right of local congregations to determine their worship styles, call ministers, and participate in local Christian charities and ecumenical groups

PERSONAL STUDY ENCOURAGED

The non-creedal nature of the Disciples of Christ encourages members to study the Bible, ancient history, archeology, and other subjects in order to deepen their understandings and develop their own beliefs on a variety of subjects, within a Christian context.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a denomination where those who are uncomfortable with creeds and dogma are likely to feel at home. The spirit of openness and the encouragement to develop a personal relationship with Christ within a loving church family make this church worthy of investigation by any Christian seeking a new church home.