Our Story
Over 75 years of faithful witness in Minneapolis
History of the World Church
1830 - The Restoration Movement
Community of Christ traces its roots to the Restoration movement, when Joseph Smith Jr. sought to restore the early Christian church. The faith community that emerged embraced scripture, spiritual experience, and a vision of building God's kingdom on earth.
1860 - Reorganization
Following Joseph Smith Jr.'s death, the church reorganized under the leadership of Joseph Smith III. For 141 years, we were known as the "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" (RLDS), establishing congregations across North America and eventually worldwide.
1960s-70s - Expanding Inclusion
The church began opening priesthood roles to women and deepening its commitment to peace and justice. Worldwide, Community of Christ congregations engaged in civil rights, environmental stewardship, and reconciliation work.
2001 - Community of Christ
The church adopted the name "Community of Christ" to better reflect its Christ-centered identity and mission. This name change signified our commitment to building communities of joy, hope, love, and peace across the globe.
2010s - Deepening Welcome
Community of Christ continued expanding its vision of radical inclusivity, fully welcoming LGBTQ+ persons into all aspects of church life and leadership. Congregations worldwide intensified their focus on peacemaking and justice work.
Today - A Global Community
With approximately 250,000 members in 60 countries, Community of Christ continues its mission to embody Christ's love, pursue justice and peace, and welcome all God's children. We remain committed to continuing revelation, faithful discipleship, and building the beloved community.
Part of a Larger Story
Our Minneapolis community is part of Community of Christ, an international Christian denomination with approximately 250,000 members in 60 countries.
The church traces its roots to the Restoration movement of the 1830s. After the death of Joseph Smith Jr., we reorganized in 1860 under the leadership of Joseph Smith III. For 141 years we were known as the "Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints" (RLDS).
In 2001, the church adopted the name "Community of Christ" to better reflect our identity and mission. Today, we are a Christ-centered, peace-loving church committed to the worth of all persons and the pursuit of justice.
Our worldwide headquarters is in Independence, Missouri, home to the beautiful Temple dedicated to peace and reconciliation.
Community of Christ Temple, Independence, Missouri
Our Heritage, Our Future
We Honor Our Past
- • Rich theological heritage
- • Restoration principles
- • Prophetic leadership tradition
- • Scripture-centered faith
- • Sacramental worship
We Embrace Our Future
- • Christ-centered mission
- • Inclusive community
- • Peace and justice focus
- • Environmental stewardship
- • Continuing revelation
Be Part of Our Story
Our story continues with each person who joins our community. We'd love for you to become part of what God is doing through Minneapolis Community of Christ.
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