Old Union Christian Union - About the Christian Union denomination

HISTORY AND ORGANIZATION
       The Christian Union began as a movement in 1864 in Columbus, Ohio amidst the turmoil of the Civil War era. A visionary group of leaders met together with a "desire for a more perfect fellowship in Christ and a more satisfactory enjoyment of the means of religious edification and comfort." This spirit of unity and cooperation of believers gave rise to this new church movement which they named The Christian Union. Christians from a variety of backgrounds and denominations were drawn to this New Testament sense of unity and purpose.
       The vision of these founders of The Christian Union remains fundamental to its congregations today. Churches minister and worship in Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Ohio, and Oklahoma. These churches meet annually in state councils for fellowship, support, and cooperative ministry planning. The General Council meets triennially bringing delegates all across Christian Union together. In between these denominational assemblies a General Executive Board helps to administer and oversee programs.
       Local churches are organized congregationally. Elected elders and pastors called by each individual church provide leadership for the congregation.

PRINCIPLES
Seven fundamental principles are essential to our fellowship and ministry.

1) The Oneness of the Church of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12; Psalm 133:1; Romans 12:5; John 17:20,21)

2) Christ the Only Head   (Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 1:18)

3) The Bible the Only Rule of Faith and Practice (2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Psalm 119:97-104)

4) Good Fruits the Only Condition of Fellowship (Matthew 7:16; James 3:17)

5) Christian Union without Controversy (Mark 9:38-40; 2 Timothy 2:14; Ephesians 4:2,3)

6) Each Local Church Governs Itself (Acts 14:23; 15:6)

7) Partisan Political Preaching Discountenanced (2 Timothy 2:14,15; 4:2)

DOCTRINE
       We believe the Bible is God's unfailing and authoritative Word to us. We believe that God gives salvation to those who express trust in Jesus Christ through a prayer for forgiveness and acceptance. God's Spirit comes into the believer then enabling us to please God and help others. This brings joy in being of service to our Lord and to others. We anticipate and await the return of Jesus for all believers everywhere.

PRACTICE
       True Christianity is a way of life--a character to be developed and and a manner of conduct to be maintained. We seek to persuade others to choose Christ and to serve Him as Savior and Lord. We endeavor to carry the gospel to everyone. We teach a personal relationship to Jesus Christ in which Bible study, prayer, witness and good works in Christ's name are encouraged.
       Our worship and instruction in congregational services includes teaching and preaching the Word of God. Style of worship varies from congregation to congregation. We practice two ordinances--baptism and the Lord's Supper. These are observed at various times and intervals as determined by each local church. We believe in financing God's work through the voluntary giving of Christian people.

       This is a general summary of The Christian Union. A more detailed doctrinal and organizational statement is available upon request.

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