A progressive Christian denomination that evolved from the Latter Day Saint movement, with a strong focus on peace, justice, and community.
Community of Christ, formerly known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS), is an international church with a significant history and distinctive beliefs and practices. With its headquarters in Independence, Missouri, it represents the second-largest denomination in the Latter Day Saint movement.
History and Background
Community of Christ was founded in the 19th century as a response to the succession crisis following the death of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. Joseph Smith III, Smith’s eldest surviving son, was accepted as his successor, leading to the formal reorganization of the church in 1860. The church originally called itself the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, adding “Reorganized” to its name in 1872. It was established based on a pattern of lineal succession through Joseph Smith and positioned itself as a mainstream alternative to other Latter Day Saint denominations, notably the larger LDS Church led by Brigham Young.
Changes in Beliefs and Practices
Over the years, the Community of Christ has undergone significant changes in its beliefs and practices, especially during the 20th century. It shifted towards mainline Protestant religious thought, which some scholars have termed the “RLDS Reformation.” The church’s proselytizing outside North America led to a re-assessment and gradual evolution of its traditional practices and beliefs. Significant events include the construction of the Independence Temple and the ordination of women to the priesthood in 1984.
Worship and Teachings
The church’s worship follows a free-form style that places a strong foundation on scripture, based on the Revised Common Lectionary. It does not adopt an official religious creed but offers a number of commonly held beliefs of its members and leaders. These include acceptance of the doctrine of the Trinity, the concept of Zion, both as a present reality and a future community, and the belief in prophetic leadership.
Organization and Membership
Community of Christ reports approximately 250,000 members in over 60 nations. It is organized into a number of congregations and is governed by a World Conference, which convenes triennially. The church owns two significant temples: the Kirtland Temple in Ohio and the Independence Temple in Missouri.
Vision and Mission
Adopting vision and mission statements in 1996, the Community of Christ is dedicated to the pursuit of peace, reconciliation, and healing of the spirit. It proclaims Jesus Christ and promotes communities of joy, hope, love, and peace. The church is known for its peace and justice-centered ministries.
Controversies and Challenges
Throughout its history, the Community of Christ has faced controversies and challenges, particularly regarding changes in beliefs and practices. These changes have led to schisms and the formation of breakaway groups. The church has experienced a decline in membership and contributions in the United States, offset somewhat by an increase in converts outside the country.
