The Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, later renamed Community of Christ, is organized by Joseph Smith III and others at Amboy, Illinois.

The Community of Christ, an American-based international church, holds a significant place as the second-largest denomination within the broader Latter Day Saint movement. With a global presence, it reports approximately 250,000 members spread across 1,100 congregations in 59 countries. This vibrant faith community traces its foundational lineage back to the establishment of the Church of Christ by Joseph Smith on April 6, 1830. However, its distinct path was formally forged on April 6, 1860, when a dedicated group of members, including Joseph Smith's eldest son, Joseph Smith III, reorganized and established the current church. This pivotal moment occurred in the aftermath of Joseph Smith's death in 1844, a period that led to various schisms within the nascent Latter Day Saint movement. For much of its history, specifically from 1872 until 2001, the church was widely known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS).

While the Community of Christ identifies as a Restorationist faith, aiming to restore elements of the early Christian church, many of its practices and beliefs resonate harmoniously with mainline Protestant Christianity. The church generally prefers not to describe its members using the term "Mormon." However, it acknowledges and retains several theological distinctions that are characteristic of the Latter Day Saint tradition. These include, but are not limited to, a belief in ongoing prophetic revelation, a structured priesthood polity, and the acceptance of the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants as sacred scripture alongside the Bible. Furthermore, it upholds a belief in the cause of Zion (a concept of building a righteous society), the symbolic importance of temples, and a unique interpretation of the Word of Wisdom (principles for healthy living).

Nevertheless, in many crucial respects, the Community of Christ stands apart from the larger Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as the LDS Church) and most other Latter Day Saint denominations. Its distinguishing features include a pronounced religious liberalism, a firm adherence to the traditional Christian conception of the Trinity (affirming God as one being in three co-equal persons), in contrast to the LDS understanding of a Godhead comprised of three separate and distinct beings. The Community of Christ also rejects the concepts of exaltation and the detailed "plan of salvation" often taught in the LDS Church. Instead, salvation is viewed as a deeply personal journey, not rigidly bound by dogma, with a strong emphasis placed on salvation by grace alone. The church proudly embraces a non-creedal identity, meaning it does not require adherence to a specific set of doctrines, and warmly welcomes individuals from a diverse spectrum of beliefs. Central to its teachings is the affirmation that "all are called" as "persons of worth" to "share the peace of Christ," fostering an inclusive and compassionate spiritual environment.

Community of Christ worship is characterized by a free-form style, with a strong scriptural foundation often guided by the Revised Common Lectionary, a structured reading system used by many Christian denominations. From its global headquarters nestled in Independence, Missouri, the church extends its reach through a multifaceted mission. It places a special emphasis on vital ministries such such as evangelism, peace and justice initiatives, fostering spirituality and wholeness, engaging youth through dedicated programs, and various outreach efforts designed to serve communities and promote its core values worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Community of Christ?
The Community of Christ is an American-based international Christian denomination, recognized as the second-largest within the Latter Day Saint movement. It emphasizes peace, justice, spirituality, and the inherent worth of all persons, tracing its origins to Joseph Smith's original Church of Christ.
What was its previous name?
From 1872 to 2001, the church was known as the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (RLDS).
How does it relate to the broader Latter Day Saint movement?
It originated from the Church of Christ founded by Joseph Smith in 1830. After Smith's death, a distinct branch, led by his son Joseph Smith III, formally established the current church in 1860, charting its own course while retaining some foundational scriptures and beliefs common to the movement.
Does the Community of Christ consider itself "Mormon"?
Generally, no. While the Community of Christ shares some historical and scriptural roots with other Latter Day Saint traditions, it has developed unique theological interpretations and a progressive approach to faith, leading it to typically reject the "Mormon" label for its members.
What are some key differences between the Community of Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church)?
Significant differences include the Community of Christ's adherence to a traditional Trinitarian view of God, its rejection of concepts like exaltation and the specific "plan of salvation" taught by the LDS Church, its religious liberalism, and its non-creedal approach to faith. It also differs in its views on temple ordinances, leadership, and social stances.
What are the core tenets or values of the Community of Christ?
The church emphasizes peace, justice, spirituality, and the inherent worth and dignity of all people. Salvation is understood as a personal journey, centered on grace rather than strict dogma. It fosters an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse beliefs and encourages sharing the peace of Christ.
Where is the Community of Christ headquartered?
Its global headquarters are located in Independence, Missouri, USA.
What are the primary ministries and focuses of the Community of Christ?
The church is actively engaged in a variety of ministries, including evangelism, dedicated peace and justice initiatives, fostering spirituality and wholeness, youth development programs, and various outreach efforts to serve both local and global communities.