United Church of Christ History and Polity
Friedens UCC, in Irvington, IL has a rich history spanning over 135 years. Friedens is a member of the United Church of Christ, below you can find more information about the United Church of Christ and it’s unique history.
The Beginnings of the United Church of Christ
This video explores the history, theology, and polity of Christian traditions that united to form the United Church of Christ in 1957. The denomination was a result of an ecumenical movement of united and uniting churches that brought together two Protestant denominations: the Evangelical and Reformed Church and the Congregational Christian Churches. Each of these was, in turn, the result of a union of two earlier rich, unique traditions.
More than just four traditions exploring hidden histories in the UCC
This video explores how the commonly told story of the UCC emerging from four traditions isn't really the whole story. Rather, the UCC emerged from several traditions and from many different historical movements and moments. Knowing and honoring these hidden histories reveals even greater commitments to being a united and uniting church.
The Local Church: Membership, Organization, Freedoms, and Responsibilities
This video explores the role of the local church in the UCC's structure by looking at membership, local church governance, autonomy, and diversity of practices. There is also a brief exploration of the UCC's polity impact on church vitality.
The Question of Authority: Exploring Where Authority Resides in the UCC
This video explores where different kinds of authority reside in the UCC and how authority is shared among different settings of the church.
A Commitment to Covenant: Connecting Congregations with the Wider Church
This video explores the UCC's commitment to covenantal polity (governance). It outlines the various settings of the church (local churches, associations, conferences, General Synod, and the national setting) and explains how covenantal relationships are what connects congregations with the wider Church.
General Synod: The Gathering of the Wider Church
This video explores the United Church of Christ's representational wider church gathering known as General Synod.
A Church of Firsts: A Historic and Ongoing Commitment to Joining Faith and Action
This video explores the United Church of Christ's historic series of firsts and how they reflect the UCC's historic and ongoing commitment to joining faith and action.
Worship in the UCC: Diverse in Practice, United in Scripture, Song, and Sacrament
This video explores the meaning of worship as well as the diversity of worship practices in the UCC. It also explores the role of sacraments, the Book of Worship, and the New Century Hymnal as unifying threads across our denomination.
Hidden Histories: Movements for Justice and Equality
In this video, the host shares stories from his own life and work as well as stories that often go untold about the UCC, its impact, and its work towards justice.