Who Are Disciples of Christ?

Compass Christian Church is part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination – a mainline Protestant domination with over 3,000 congregations in North America. The Disciples (DOC) denomination began in the early 1800s in the United States with a vision of a united church of Jesus Christ based on the New Testament.  

Like most Christians, Disciples affirm:

•  Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and offers saving grace to all.  
• All people are God’s children.  

Other beliefs and practices you will find in Disciples churches include: 

Open Communion: The Lord’s Supper, or Communion, is celebrated in weekly worship. It is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ. 

Freedom of belief: 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 recognize that each person has the freedom - and the responsibility - to study God’s Word within the community of the church.  

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.  

Belief in the oneness of the church: 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.  

The ministry of all believers:  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. 

Additional Information on the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) can be found at: http://disciples.org/  

Info on the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)  Christian Church Ohio network of congregations can be found at: http://www.ccinoh.com/