We
are a small congregation of caring and faithful Christians from a
wide variety of denominational backgrounds.
We
affirm the ministry of each individual -- both men and women serve
in all aspects of the church's life and leadership.
We
enjoy a worship style that is traditional, but fairly informal. The
worship music is varied, including both old favorites and contemporary
songs that are becoming new favorites. The preaching is biblically
solid, while striving to be relevant to the world in which we live.
We
are blessed with a wonderful fellowship -- people who genuinely care
about one another and seek to share in one another's lives.
We
are active in numerous community ministries, including Canyon Cares
and United Campus Ministry.
We
celebrate the Lord's Supper each Sunday, and all followers of Christ
are welcome to participate.
We
take Scripture very seriously, and all members are encouraged to read
and study the Bible (both as individuals and in study groups), that
they may interpret Scripture for themselves and apply it to their
own lives.
We
do not insist that members agree with a particular creed or doctrine,
beyond affirming that "Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living
God" and accepting Him as their Lord and Savior.
We
are theologically, politically and socially diverse; we have learned
that we can differ from one another and still worship, study, fellowship
and serve together.
About
the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ):
The
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) was founded in the early 1800s
on the American frontier. Seeking to move beyond denominational divisions
and doctrinal disagreements, the founders envisioned a united church
of Jesus Christ, modeled on the church of the New Testament.
Today, there are
approximately 825,000 Disciples in some 3,800 congregations in the United
States and Canada. Each congregation is self-governing, so there may
be considerable variation in beliefs and practices from one congregation
to another. However, most Disciples affirm:
Open communion
In Disciples' congregations, 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 one essential of faith: belief
in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Members are free to follow their
consciences guided by the Bible, the Holy Spirit, study and prayer,
and are expected to extend that same freedom to others.
Baptism by immersion
Disciples practice baptism of believers by immersion, but other baptismal
traditions are honored.
Belief in the
oneness of the church
All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to seek opportunities
for common witness and service.
The ministry
of believers
Both clergy and lay persons lead in worship, service and spiritual
growth.
Relying upon God's
grace, guidance and power, Disciples of Christ seek "to be
and to share the good news of Jesus Christ, witnessing, loving and serving
from our doorsteps to the ends of the earth."
About
First Christian Church