The Norwalk Christian Church has been part of the fabric of the
Norwalk community since 1869 and in all those years our mission
has been to be and to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
The Norwalk Christian Church is a part of the larger church called
the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The symbol of this denomination
is a red chalice bearing the "X-shaped" cross of St. Andrew.
The chalice symbolizes the centrality of the Lord's supper to Disciples'
lives. St. Andrew has been identified with the laity and evangelism,
prominent emphases of Disciples in the past, present and future
Communion is celebrated weekly in Disciples congregations.
A unique practice of Disciples is the presence of lay elders at
the table who offer the communion prayer. All those who profess
faith in Jesus Christ are welcome to partake of communion.
People are welcomed into membership by coming
forward during worship and making a public confession of faith.
The pastor extends the "right hand of Christian fellowship"
and asks the question, "Do you believe that Jesus Christ is
the Son of the Living God and do YOU proclaim him Savior and Lord?"
The Disciples practice "believers baptism,"
meaning we baptize by immersion those who are of an age to commit
to a life of Christian discipleship. Following one's confession
of faith, one may be baptized. If a person has already been baptized
in another church or tradition it is recognized as valid and there
is no need for re-baptism.
The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) does not have a formal
doctrine. Historically, one of our slogans was "no creed by
Christ," and we still think this way today. We study the Bible
to deepen our connection to God through Jesus Christ, and to discover
what God wants us to do. |