Community of Christ

Community of Christ
Name	Community of Christ
Main classification	Latter Day Saint movement
Polity	Hierarchical
Leader title	President of the Church
Leader name	Stephen M. Veazey
Headquarters	Independence, Missouri
Founded date	April 6, 1830
Founded place	Fayette, New York
Founder	Joseph Smith
Separations	The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (1844)
Area	Worldwide
Congregations	Approx. 1,100
Members	Approx. 250,000

Community of Christ. It is an international Christian denomination with roots in the Latter Day Saint movement founded by Joseph Smith. Formerly known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS Church), it adopted its current name in 2001 to reflect its global identity and theological focus. The church is headquartered in the Temple in Independence, Missouri, and is led by a President of the Church, currently Stephen M. Veazey.

History

The denomination traces its origins to the 1830 organization of the Church of Christ (Latter Day Saints) by Joseph Smith in Fayette, New York. Following the 1844 death of Smith and subsequent succession crisis, various factions emerged, including one led by Smith's son, Joseph Smith III. This group, reorganizing in the 1850s and 1860s, became known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, asserting continuity with the original church. Key early leaders included Joseph Smith III, Frederick M. Smith, and Israel A. Smith. Significant developments in the 20th century included the construction of the Independence Temple and a series of World Conference decisions that shifted theological and social perspectives, culminating in the 2001 name change to Community of Christ.

Beliefs and practices

Community of Christ theology emphasizes God's grace, the lordship of Jesus Christ, and the ongoing guidance of the Holy Spirit. Core beliefs include a commitment to peace and justice, the worth of all persons, and the concept of continuing revelation. Distinctive practices include the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper celebrated with unfermented wine, the ordinance of baptism by immersion, and the laying on of hands for confirmation and healing. The church observes Holy Week and Easter, and its worship often incorporates contemporary music alongside traditional hymns. Mission initiatives are framed by the church's Enduring Principles and the pursuit of Zion as a vision of peace.

Organization and structure

The church operates under a hierarchical, presidential leadership model. The First Presidency, composed of the President of the Church and two counselors, serves as the leading quorum. Legislative authority rests with the World Conference, a delegated body that meets regularly. The Council of Twelve Apostles is responsible for missionary work and church planting, while the Presiding Bishopric oversees financial and temporal affairs. The church is divided into geographic Mission Centres and stakes, with ordained ministers including evangelists, high priests, and seventies. Key administrative offices are located on the Temple grounds in Independence, Missouri.

Sacred texts and scripture

The church recognizes several books as scripture, with the Bible (preferring the Joseph Smith Translation) and the Book of Mormon holding primary status. The Doctrine and Covenants is a unique volume containing revelations and official documents, with sections added by successive church presidents, including Joseph Smith III, W. Grant McMurray, and Stephen M. Veazey. The Pearl of Great Price is not included in its canon. Scripture is viewed as inspired and interpreted through reason, faith, and community discernment, with the World Conference holding the authority to approve new additions to the Doctrine and Covenants.

Ecumenical relations and interfaith engagement

Community of Christ is actively involved in the modern ecumenical movement. It is a member of the National Council of Churches in the United States and the World Council of Churches. The church engages in formal dialogues and partnerships with other Christian bodies, including the United Methodist Church and the Anglican Communion. Its Temple in Independence, Missouri is designed as an interfaith peace sanctuary, hosting events for organizations like the Parliament of the World's Religions. The church's commitment to peacebuilding also involves collaboration with non-Christian faiths and secular peace organizations.

Demographics and global presence

With approximately 250,000 members in around 1,100 congregations, the church has a significant presence across North America, particularly in the United States and Canada. It has growing membership in regions such as Africa, the Philippines, India, and parts of Latin America and the Caribbean. The church conducts its work in numerous languages and adapts its ministry to diverse cultural contexts. Major sites include the headquarters in Independence, Missouri, the historic Kirtland Temple in Ohio, and various Mission Centres worldwide that coordinate local outreach and development programs.

Category:Community of Christ Category:Christian denominations established in the 19th century Category:Religious organizations based in Missouri