The restoration movement of the early eighteenth century in Britain and the United States attempted to return to the practices of worship outlined in the New Testament. This movement has shaped the worship life of several Protestant groups that use the name “Christian Church” or “Church of Christ.”
Worship in the Disciples of Christ denomination was shaped by the conditions of the American frontier during the early nineteenth century. Only in the second half of the twentieth century has the widespread use of the Christian year appeared. A worship calendar that became popular in the 1950s helped prepare the way, combining some historic Christian festivals with national and denominational observances. Since the 1960s, Disciples’ participation in ecumenical worship renewal has encouraged the full embrace of the Christian year.
Since they have always adhered to the principle of freedom in those things which were considered nonessentials, it may come as no surprise that diversity marks the worship practices of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Because music and the other arts are not essential elements of belief and because there is no extensive musical heritage, the denomination has always felt free to leave the development and implementation of worship practices to local leaders. Unlike the Church of Christ, the Disciples of Christ permits the use of the organ and other instruments in congregational worship.