OUR BELIEFS

AT FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH

IDENTITY

“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.”

LIKE MOST CHRISTIANS,
MANY DISCIPLES AFFIRM:

Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and understand him as the fullest expression of God’s love for all human beings, and all of creation.

All human beings are God’s children, loved unconditionally.

BELIEFS AND PRACTICES:

Open Communion. The Lord’s Supper (or Communion) is celebrated in weekly worship. It is open to all followers of Jesus Christ.

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 baptism by immersion, other baptism traditions are honored.

We Are Free. Disciples are called together around 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. We hold the centrality of scripture, recognizing that each person has the freedom – and the responsibility – to study God’s Word within the community of the church.

We Are One. All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to find ways to work together in showing God’s love through witness and service. We hear a special calling to make visible the unity of all Christians. In our diversity, we belong to one another because we commonly belong to Christ.

We Work Together. Both ministers and lay persons, lead in worship, service, and spiritual growth. We affirm the priesthood of all believers, rejoicing in the gifts of the Holy Spirit – which include the gift of leadership – that God has given for the common good.

LOOKING FOR MORE?

JOIN A SMALL GROUP!

As Disciples of Christ, we hold the centrality of scripture, recognizing that each person has the freedom - and the responsibility - to study God’s Word within the community of the church. We host a variety of short-term and continuous studies throughout the year that all are welcome to join.