Frequently Asked Questions

What “kind of church” are you?

The Disciples of Christ denomination is a mainline Protestant church, one of many Protestant denominations with moderate theologies that attempt to be open to new ideas and societal changes without abandoning the historical basis of the Christian faith. Our denomination currently has nearly 850,000 members in the United States and Canada. Click for more on the Disciples of Christ denomination. (Click for more)

What do you believe?

The only requirement for membership at Springfield Christian Church is the affirmation that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and the Lord and Savior of the world. There are no other creeds or doctrines that need to be accepted. Since everyone has a unique faith journey leading to this affirmation of Christ, we experience and celebrate tremendous diversity of theological understanding within our congregation.

What is your mission statement?

As blessed children of the loving god, this Congregation joyfully and prayerfully accepts the call to active Mission given to us by Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We, the members of Springfield Christian Church, will:

  • Worship the lord our God with thankful praise;
  • Proclaim & Demonstrate God’s love to each other and to all people;
  • Proclaim & Witness by action, the Good News of Jesus Christ in the world;
  • Build a community for the faithful at home and abroad
  • Apply the liberating power of the Gospel to serve the evolving needs of the poor, the forlorn, the hungry, the lost and the dispossessed in the community around us;
  • Celebrate god’s inclusiveness and His open invitation to Communion, as stewards of the traditions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ);
  • Create unity among all Christians;
  • Grow as individuals in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

What qualifications do your pastors have?

Our denomination generally requires its ministers to receive a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited seminary before being ordained. We have always valued a thoughtful and educated approach to scripture and look to our ministers to guide us in our individual understanding rather than insist upon one interpretation.

Are women allowed to be pastors, elders, deacons, or teachers?

Yes! In the early nineteenth century, our denomination was first to ordain women as ministers. We believe that God calls people to particular service regardless of age, race, gender, nationality, or sexual orientation. There is only one qualification for participation in the life of the church -- the profession that Jesus is the Christ.

What are your worship services like?

Our worship services include such traditional elements as hymns, prayer, scripture, sermon, and communion, but we strive to maintain an informal and relaxed environment so that anyone can feel comfortable as part of this faith community. The mood is one of celebration as we learn from God, give praise for all of our blessings, and seek ways to live out God’s plan for our lives.

Who is allowed to take communion?

The communion table is open to anyone who chooses to partake. It is the place where God’s grace in Jesus Christ is experienced. It is the table to which people of all ages, races, and nations are invited by Christ the host.

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