In the process of analyzing the results of a long-term planning process called "Faithful Planning", we have identified some of the things that we value most about our church and its ministry. Faithful Planning Chairman Fred Spannaus has summed it up in a statement he calls:

The Central Difference

"Central Christian Church occupies a distinct place in Decatur's religious community. Its membership is large and diverse. People come to Central from many traditions and backgrounds. Here they find a place where people think for themselves, struggle with ultimate questions, grow spiritually and walk with others on their faith journeys. At Central members respect each other's beliefs, encouraging honest study of scripture and theology. Central adheres to no creed, welcoming all who would follow Jesus Christ.

"Central affirms God's limitless love for all creation. It proclaims that God's grace will never be bound by human definitions. It recognizes that all people in all circumstances are equally beloved children of God, made in the image and likeness of the Creator. This is expressed in an aura of acceptance, inclusiveness, and non-judgmental love. It is demonstrated by generous support of local and global missions and a thirst for justice.

"Sunday worship in Central's beautiful sanctuary focuses on God with intelligent preaching, inspiring music and lay leadership. Throughout the week, the church offers opportunities for education and growth with its highly-regarded pre-school, its youth and adult programs, its ministries to the lonely and disenfranchised and its numerous fellowship and service groups.

"Central Christian Church is part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It strives to follow the early motto of our movement: "In essentials unity, in nonessentials, liberty, and in all things charity."

As we look toward making new plans for the future, we are anxious to continue and maintain excellence in our music ministry, generous support for the mission and witness of the Disciples of Christ, and genuine commitment to being an instrument of God's peace and justice.

God bless the ministries of Central Christian Church!

Design for the Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ)

As members of the Christian Church,
We confess that Jesus is the Christ,
the Son of the living God,
and proclaim him Lord and Savior of the world.

In Christ's name and by his grace
we accept our mission of witness
and service to people,

We rejoice in God,
maker of heaven and earth,
and in the covenant of love
which binds us to God and one another.

Through baptism into Christ
we enter into newness of life
and are made one with the whole people of God.

In communion of the Holy Spirit
we are joined together in discipleship
and in obedience to Christ.

At the table of the Lord
we celebrate with thanksgiving
the saving acts and presence of Christ.

Within the universal church
we receive the gift of ministry
and the light of scripture.

In the bonds of Christian faith
we yield ourselves to God
that we may serve the One
whose kingdom has no end.

Blessing, glory and honor
be to God forever. Amen.

Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
(217) 428-4336

email the webmaster at gbarron@cccdisciples.org