The Disciples of Christ, also known as the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is a Protestant denomination that emerged in the early 19th century in the United States. It was founded by leaders like Alexander Campbell and Barton W. Stone, who sought to restore the unity of Christians by emphasizing the authority of the Bible and the importance of baptism for believers. This denomination is known for its commitment to inclusivity and social justice, encouraging members to engage in community service and outreach. The Disciples of Christ practice open communion, welcoming all believers to participate, and they value congregational autonomy, allowing local churches to govern themselves.