First Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ)

Faith and Beliefs WHO ARE THE DISCIPLES OF CHRIST? The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) started in the early 1800s as a movement to bring about Church unity based on the 'restoration' of the New Testament practices and principles. It now numbers over one million members. Ours is a democratic church. The people themselves select their own ministers, write their own bylaws and conduct all the necessary business. We support and work through national and regional agencies to fulfill those aspects of Christ's mission which are beyond the local congregation. EXPLANATION OF OUR SYMBOL The symbol of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a red chalice bearing the cross of St. Andrew across the left side of the bowl. The chalice symbolizes the centrality of the Lord's Supper in the life and worship of the Disciples. Red is the color of Christ's blood. St. Andrew, the national saint of Scotland, focuses attention on the Presbyterian roots of the Disciples. WE BELIEVE IN... The centrality of Jesus Christ The importance of the scripture as our guide The unity of all Christians in Christ The value of each person's gifts for ministry, empowered by God's spirit WE OBSERVE... Baptism - a symbol of the burial of the old self and the birth of the new life that comes to one who accepts Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. The Lord's Supper - A weekly ceremony of commemoration, thanksgiving and fellowship. Open to all Believers. WE TEACH... The responsibility of the individual to study the Bible to discover what the Will of God is for your own life. WE SEEK... To fulfill the vast responsibilities of the church to preach, teach and minister to all people through our outreach program shared with other congregations of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Feeling that Peter's confession faith, "you are the Christ, the Son of the living God," meets the needs of the simplest person as well as the profound scholar, we do not require submission to creed nor vote upon admitting new members. WE RECEIVE MEMBERS BY... Confession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and baptism by immersion. If you are a member of another denomination, your statement of transfer is all that is required. The minister will be happy to discuss with you the difference in baptism, communion and other matters.