Page "Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)" Paragraph 47

The Christian Church ( Disciples of Christ ) at the “ General Church ” level consists of a number of self-governing agencies, which focus upon specific Christian witnesses to the world that have emerged in the dialog within the movement since before the first convention in 1849.

Typically, these ministries have a scope that is larger than Regional Ministries, and often have a global perspective.

The church agencies report to the General Assembly, which meets biennially in odd numbered years.

The General Minister and President ( GMP ) is the designated leader for the General Church, but does not have the administrative authority to direct any of the general church agencies other than “ The Office of General Minister and President .” The GMP has influence that derives from the respect of the church much as the pastor of a local church leads a local congregation.