First Christian Church · Centralia

Our Beliefs

Faith centered on Jesus Christ, open communion, and unity among Christians.

Bible

The Bible is viewed as God’s revealed word and is authoritative for us. Members are encouraged, through prayer and study, to develop their own positions on issues and to extend the same freedom to others.

Jesus Christ

Belief in Jesus Christ as Savior is the only requirement for salvation.

Ecumenism

We reach out and work with other Christian denominations. Issues of social justice are a priority.

Baptism

Baptism symbolizes the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It represents cleansing, new birth, and new life within the faith community.

Communion

We practice open communion. All believers in Christ, regardless of church affiliation, are welcome at the Lord’s Table. Communion is celebrated each Sunday as the center of worship.

The Priesthood of All Believers

All members have a ministry as they live out their faith within and beyond the church. Both ordained clergy and lay people serve in leadership, and women are ordained and serve as elders and deacons.

Sacraments

Believer’s Baptism

We practice baptism by immersion for those mature enough to understand its meaning. Members from other denominations may transfer their faith without being baptized again.

The Lord’s Supper

All believers in Christ are invited to participate. The Lord’s Supper is the central and most important part of our worship experience.

The Chalice

The chalice is the emblem of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), pointing to the centrality of the Lord’s Supper. The Cross of St. Andrew recalls the movement’s Presbyterian roots, and the tipped chalice represents the church’s self-giving mission.