The Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ) grew out of religious movements that began on the American
frontier in the early 1800s. These movements tried to find ways
to establish churches on the frontier despite obstacles caused by
denominational churches. Throughout its history, The Christian
Church has celebrated the unity of Christian churches, despite their
denominational differences. Instead, the movement's early leaders
imagined congregations modeled on the early churches described in the
New Testament.
Congregations involved in this movement eventually became recognized as
the Disciples (a recognition that was formalized in 1968 when the
congregations officially became The Christian Church (Disciples of
Christ)). Even though each Disciples congregation is autonomous,
controlling its own affairs and calling its own ministers, there are
similarities. The Lord's Supper is celebrated each Sunday.
Lay leadership is recognized throughout the life of the
congregations. The Bible has a central role in the life of the
congregation. And serious Christians meet to discuss -- and
sometimes even disagree -- over important matters of faith. (
Read a longer description of some of United Christian's general beliefs.)
Disciples recognize three manifestations of the Christian Church --
congregational, regional, and general -- but emphasize that these
manifestations are co-equal, rather than hierarchical. United
Christian Church is an active congregation in both the
Illinois-Wisconsin region and the
General church. (
See also Regional and General Ministries.)
For more information about The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), please visit one of the following websites:
