Distinct traditions. A shared life in Christ.

Unity lived in relationship

Full communion gives visible expression to our unity in Christ while honoring the gifts of each church. These relationships invite congregations and church leaders to worship, serve, and bear witness together.

What Is Full Communion?

A relationship of full communion is one of the highest expressions of unity that churches can share while remaining distinct denominations. It is not a merger. Rather, it is a covenant in which two churches recognize one another as authentic expressions of the one Church of Christ while maintaining their own identities, traditions, governance, and theological distinctives.

Although each church remains fully itself, a full communion relationship typically includes:

• Mutual recognition of one another’s baptisms, celebration of the Lord’s Supper, and ordained ministries.
• The orderly exchange of clergy according to mutually agreed-upon procedures.
• Opportunities for shared worship, mission, evangelism, and public witness.
• Continued theological dialogue, cooperation, and mutual accountability as partners in Christ’s mission.