FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH  (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) 800 W. Woodard Denison, TX 75020 Church Office:903-465-1327  Church Fax: 903-465-3161 Rev. Steve Chambers email: admin@fccdenison.org

The chalice symbolizes the central place of communion in worship for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The X-shaped cross of the disciple Andrew is a reminder of the ministry of each person and the importance of evangelism.

• Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and offers saving grace to all
• All persons are God's children

• 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 one essiential of faith: 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 to freedom to others.

• Baptism by immersion. In baptism the old self-centered life is set aside, and a new life of trust in God begins.  Although Disciples 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 seek opportunities for common witness and service.

• The ministry of believers. Both ministers and lay persons lead in worship, service and spiritual growth.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) was founded inthe early 1800s in the United States.  Seeking to move beyond the denominational disagreements, the founders envisioned a united church of Jesus Christ modeled on the New Testament.

Today our nearly 3,800 congregations still share these characteristics:

• Each congregation is self-governing and calls its own pastor.
• Worship services may be formal or informal, and include lay women and men in leadership.
• Open discussion of issues is encouraged Diversity of opinion is common
• We are growing in racial and ethnic diversity