We are a part of the Disciples of Christ denomination, a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. As part of the one body of Christ, we welcome all to the Lord's Table as God has welcomed us.
Currently, at Northwest Christian Church we are exploring how to actively build upon three core values that can be found in the life of Jesus. We feel that these core values are also strengths of our congregation and tell about who we are.
Hospitality: We are sharing generously and embracing all of God's children with open arms and acceptance.
Outreach/Mission: We are reaching out to the community around our church, making a commitment to meeting people at their point of need and serving where God calls us.
Spiritual Depth: As followers of Jesus, we are growing a trusting relationship with God through prayer, experiences of worship, and learning. As disciples we recognize that love of all (including forgiveness and reconciliation) is an ongoing process.
The chalice points to the centrality of the Lord’s Supper in the life and worship of the Disciples. The white St. Andrew's cross on the chalice reminds us of the ministry to which all Christ's followers are called and the importance of sharing the good news of God's love. The color red signifies vitality, spirit and sacrifice. The chalice and St. Andrew’s Cross, symbol of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), was adopted by the denomination’s 1971 General Assembly.
What do Disciples believe? Like most Christians, Disciples affirm:
Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and offers saving grace to all.
All people are God's children.
Beliefs and practices usually associated with Disciples include: Open Communion: The Lord's Supper, or Communion, is celebrated weekly during worship. It is open to each person present. Freedom of belief: Disciples are called together around 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 that freedom to others. We recognize that each person has the freedom and the responsibility to study the Bible within the community of the church. Baptism by Immersion: In baptism the old self-centered life is set aside, and a new life of trust in God begins. Although Disciples practice 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 to find ways to work together in showing God's love through witness and service. We hear a special calling to make visible the unity of all Christians. In our diversity we belong to one another because we commonly belong to Christ. The ministry of all believers: Both ministers and lay persons lead in worship, service, and spiritual growth. We affirm the priesthood of all believers, rejoicing in the gifts of the Holy Spirit - which include the gift of leadership - that God has given for the common good.