WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE ARE ABOUT...

It was in 1969 when the International Convention adopted the "Principles for Merger of the National Christian Missionary Convention, the United Christian Missionary Society and the International Convention of the Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ)." As a result of the adoption of the "Principles" document, a new entity, the National Convocation of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), was formed to "nurture a realization of the merger vision." The Convocation is an expression of the church that is positioned to promote racial harmony. The National Convocation was to be responsible for pointing "the emerging Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) toward racial inclusiveness and unity across racial lines."

"The National Convocation’s mandate was to nurture a realization of the merger vision. A fivefold sharing formula for guiding black Disciples of Christ in the realization of the merger vision presented in 1969. African American Disciples of Christ were urged to:

1. Share in the administration of Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) agencies by serving on policy making boards and committees.
2. Share in the work and employment of the Disciples at all levels.
3. Share in the drama and exhibition of the work of the church as performed by the regional and general organizations of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
4. Share in the financial support of the causes and concerns of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
5. Share faithfully and loyally in the activities, fellowship, and aspirations of the Disciples as a people moving toward complete inclusiveness and diversity.

(Taken from "The Encyclopedia of the STONE-CAMPBELL MOVEMENT", eds. Foster, Blowers, Dunnavant, and Williams; 2004, pages 555-556; contributors, William K. Fox, Sr. and John R. Foulkes, Sr.)