Disciples of Christ 101

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a church for these days and times.

The first full week of November, I will be offering a class which will explore,

   through discussion and interactive exercises, why we are a church for these days and times.

Everyone is welcome to take the class, but we will offer special invitations to those contemplating

   membership and to those who have recently become members.

We will talk about the following:

   1. What are the essential beliefs and the "color and texture" of our movement?

   2. How Cane Ridge, the Revival, Barton Stone and Alexander Campbell have shaped us.

   3. What are the key building blocks — the basics — of the Christian faith?

   4. What is so special about First Christian, Paris?

   5. How will you serve through First Christian?

The class will last about 8 weeks. The meeting time will be determined from talking with those who are interested in taking the class. If you are interested call me at 859-707-7886.

 

While I am here, let me tell you why I believe the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a church particularly suited to the times in which we live.

 

1. The most current example is that you will find members supporting both candidates for president and yet I have never heard an argument or disdain expressed about someone because of their political beliefs. We tolerate diversity and difference of opinion.

2. Our table is open to any believer, guest or member. A guest can do anything in our church except vote, serve on the board or take legal responsibility for our church. We exist in covenant community. We walk together in faith, listening carefully to each other.

3. We understand that the cross represents forgiveness of sins. We do not expect someone to arrive here packaged for perfection.

4. We believe that faith is an expression of reason and emotion. Faith speaks to head and heart. Both inform each other. One is not preferred over the other. Both are gifts from God meant to be a part of the faith journey.

5. You will not find us targeting anyone for their particular choices or sins from the pulpit. No one is singled out as a bigger sinner than someone else. We might even disagree on what are considered sins. But we talk about it.

We are open to hearing about your life and your faith journey or the absence of a faith journey.

 

These are just some of the things which make us, if not unique, at least particularly suited for these days and times.

 

Moving to the deeper places,

Jeff