A historical and descriptive introduction. Local practice varies; the examples below are not a judgment of a community’s faithfulness.
When and how it began
Movements associated with Barton W. Stone and Thomas and Alexander Campbell sought Christian unity through a return to New Testament practice. Major American streams united in 1832, then later diverged.
Beliefs and practices
Believer’s baptism by immersion, weekly Communion, Scripture, and local congregational responsibility are characteristic. Views of baptism and admission to Communion differ among branches.
A typical worship service
Prayer, Bible teaching, congregational singing, and weekly Communion commonly structure Sunday worship.
What the worship space looks like
A Communion table, preaching area, and baptistry are common. Many Churches of Christ sing without instruments; other branches use them.
Branches and differences
Three important U.S. streams are Churches of Christ, independent Christian Churches/Churches of Christ, and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Disciples are an organized denomination; the others are generally congregational networks. A sign saying “Christian Church” does not identify the branch by itself.
Sources & further reading
Historical overviews support the account of origins. Official church documents describe the community’s own beliefs and practice.
Reviewed September 24, 2026. Broad family descriptions do not settle local policies or every contested point of history.