🤝 What Does It Mean to Be in Full Communion with Another Denomination?

The United Church of Christ is part of something much bigger than itself — a body of Christ that spans cultures, traditions, and theological perspectives. That expansive vision is at the heart of our Full Communion agreements, formal partnerships with other Christian denominations grounded in unity, respect, and shared mission.

In this in-depth UCC article, you’ll discover how Full Communion relationships are formed, how they differ from mergers, and what they mean for clergy, congregations, and justice ministries. These agreements affirm that while differences in worship and doctrine remain, we recognize the authenticity of one another’s sacraments, ordination, and shared call to gospel service.

Through Full Communion, we gain partners in disaster response, advocacy, chaplaincy, and church planting. We also open pathways for clergy to serve across denominational lines — a vital asset in today’s spiritual landscape.

One of the most visible examples of Full Communion is our relationship with the United Church of Canada, as pictured above during a shared moment of worship. These commitments are more than symbolic — they are rooted in accountability, trust, and a shared desire to follow Christ’s prayer “that they may all be one.”

📣 General Synod 35

Holy Covenant celebrates our denomination’s ecumenical spirit — and we look forward to the energy and discernment of General Synod 35. These conversations and covenants are a vital part of who we are as a united and uniting church.

Pastor Chris will be attending General Synod 35 as a voting member from our conference. Please keep him and all Synod delegates in your prayers as they discern the Spirit’s guidance in this important work.