UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

Protestant denomination in the United States, formed by union of the Evangelical and Reformed Church (q.v.) and the General Council of Congregational Christian Churches (q.v.). Each was the result of former unions. Negotiations toward union of the two bodies were begun in 1942, and during the next 15 years there were seven revisions of the Basis of Union. The United Church of Christ was formed in a uniting General Synod on June 25, 1957, and its constitution was declared in force on July 4, 1961. A Statement of Faith for the new church was adopted by the two uniting groups in 1959 in Oberlin, Ohio. This statement is, however, considered a testimony to the faith of the uniting churches rather than a final rule of faith. The local churches are neither bound by it nor required to accept it. Church government is a combination of congregationalism and presbyterianism. The autonomy of each local church in the management of its own affairs is guaranteed by the constitution of the United Church of Christ. Local churches in an area are combined into an association, and several associations make up a conference (usually composed of a state). Associations and conferences hold annual meetings. The highest representative body of the United Church of Christ is the General Synod, which is composed of about 700 delegates chosen by the conferences. It meets biennially. Headquarters of the church are in New York City.