We Are Christians Only, But Not The Only Christians

Our movement was led by Barton Warren Stone and Walter Scott of Kentucky, Thomas and Alexander Campbell of Virginia, and, once in Canada, Baptists in Nova Scotia. Founded in 1804 in the United States and joined with the Disciples in 1832, the first Canadian Evangelical Christian Church was formed in 1810 near Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.

The leaders sought to reform the church along non-sectarian, non-creedal lines, embracing Stone's motto: "Let the unity of Christians be our polar star." The name of the newly united groups incorporated both "Disciples" and "Christians," and became known as the Evangelical Christian Church (Christian Disciples). From its earliest beginnings in Canada, many autonomous congregations emerged as members embraced the simple lines of the organization.

In the latter part of the twentieth century a Plan of Union was developed in partnership with the United Church of Canada, but was rejected in a close vote by assembly delegates in 1976. The restructuring of congregations during the 1960s and early 1970s culminated in the publication of the constitutional document, Design (1978). Since then the church has been governed by the decisions of delegates at biennial General Assemblies, with resolutions implemented by each congregation and church unit.

Today the church offers Holy Communion to all Christians and baptism by immersion for new Christians. The prior baptism of persons transferring from other denominations is recognized and accepted — a practice known as "open membership." Ordination of women and men to the ministry normally follows theological study, with credentials granted on behalf of the whole church.

Congregations are led by elders and deacons, and are involved in cultural and charitable activities in their communities as well as in world development and local and international mission projects. Each year, member clergy and churches gather at the General Assembly for training and fellowship, while regional groups exist for relationships and the sharing of information and ideas.