With roots in British and American endeavors to restore apostolic Christianity, the Stone-Campbell Movement drew its inspiration from the independent efforts of nineteenth-century religious reformers Barton W. Stone and the father-son team of Thomas and Alexander Campbell. The union of these two movements in the 1830s and the growth of the new body thrust it into a place of significance in early nineteenth-century America, and it quickly spread to other parts of the English-speaking world.

From its beginnings the Movement has developed into one of the most vital and diverse Christian traditions in the world. Today it encompasses three major American communions -- Churches of Christ, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and Christian Churches/Churches of Christ -- as well as united churches in several other countries.

Over ten years in the making, The Encyclopedia of the Stone-Campbell Movement offers for the first time a sweeping historical and theological treatment of this complex, vibrant global communion. Written by more than 300 contributors, this major reference work contains over 700 original articles covering all of the significant individuals, events, places, and theological tenets that have shaped the Movement. Much more than simply a historical dictionary, this volume also constitutes an interpretive work reflecting historical consensus among Stone-Campbell scholars, even as it attempts to present a fair, representative picture of the rich heritage that is the Stone-Campbell Movement.

Scores of photographs and illustrations (many quite rare) enrich and enliven the text, and an extensive, carefully prepared index facilitates ready access to important information throughout the volume. The Encyclopedia of the Stone-Campbell Movement -- a standard reference work for religious, academic, public, and personal libraries everywhere.

Features of this encyclopedia:

• Presents over 700 articles on the people, events, churches, and beliefs that comprise the Stone-Campbell tradition
• Provides cutting-edge commentary on current topics of discussion as well as basic historical knowledge
• Written by more than 300 scholars from across the Stone-Campbell Movement
• Enlivened with photographs and illustrations (some quite rare) from around the world
• Includes an extensive index for rapid reference

D. Newell Williams is president and professor of modern and American church history at Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, Texas.