Description
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism (NDCI) is the intersection of Faith, Reason, Wisdom, Critical Thinking, and Principle (the five pillars of NDCI); we are Christians who believe in the power of both faith and science. NDCI is fundamentally a system of core beliefs and values that influence how we think about and engage with the world. The purpose is to seek truth in all things and do good. It is rooted in a desire to humbly follow Christ, develop spiritually, and practice the way; using faith, reason, wisdom, critical thinking, and principle.
Please expand the sections below to learn more about Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism.
In the context of NDCI, Christianity is specifically defined as actively seeking and following the way of Jesus Christ; and Christians are those that faithfully practice the way.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism is rooted in the desire to follow Jesus and is based on Biblical teachings and principles. This desire is encapsulated in the 7 Tenets that comprise our Core Beliefs. We believe:
1. That Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and our personal Lord and Savior. He was born on Earth of the Virgin Mary, died in payment for our sins and to overcome evil; and was Resurrected. The Almighty God is the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; three distinct entities but one single essence. God is good and just, He can change hearts, give wisdom, and provide guidance when consulted; and He reveals Himself through relationship with each individual person.
2. That the Kingdom of Heaven is supreme above all other kingdoms. God created humanity in His image as male and female and gave us free will, but humanity fell from grace by disobeying God and became tainted by sin; so we must each confess our sins to God, ask for forgiveness, and seek His help with personal improvement. We must also make the choice to do good each and every day. Only God can truly save the world and fix the issue of sin that is the root cause of so many problems. Our role is primarily to share the message of Christ through love and service; and be good stewards of His creation.
3. In Baptism, Marriage, Morality, Good and Evil, the Teachings of Jesus Christ, and God’s design for people and creation; as set forth by God and described in the Bible. But that the greatest commandments of all are to love God with all your heart, mind, and soul; and to love your neighbor as yourself. Including treating others as you want to be treated, because we are all created in the image of God, and all are one in Christ. We all sin, but we are not defined by sin nor should we let it be the basis for callousness; for the issue of sin is settled in Christ. Those that seek and claim to follow Christ must cultivate the fruits of the spirit (Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control).
4. That the Bible is complex and nuanced, written by man but Divinely Inspired by God; intended to be God’s guide to humanity in matters of Faith and Salvation. The motivations of the heart, the movements of the spirit, and the teachings of the Bible are important to consider when determining if something is good or bad; and that God is ultimately the final authority over all things. The best way to understand and apply Biblical teaching is by consulting God directly, seeking context, and using wisdom and critical thinking.
5. That the only path to salvation is through Jesus Christ; and that everyone should choose a personal relationship with God freely. Every relationship and path is unique to each person, and that the issue of sin is primarily between each person and God directly. It is important that each of us personally makes an effort to do our part while humbly and genuinely seeking His truth in our life; with the understanding that each person will have to one day stand before God and account for their own life.
6. That critical thinking and independent thought is rooted in scripture and should be practiced in consultation with God and Biblical teaching. Whenever science, the Bible, or anything else seems to be in contradiction, the issue must be looked at objectively and critically considering all related factors, with the honest consultation of God and a genuine and humble interest in seeking the truth. Including the willingness to change one’s mind if we find that our understanding or interpretation is mistaken. Seeking truth, knowledge, and reason is important; and scientific processes and methods of understanding can and do complement faith, especially when done in consultation with God. If something is fundamentally true, it will withstand scientific scrutiny; though we must also consider the possibility of the existence of things that are beyond our mortal understanding.
7. The order of priorities for living a faithful life is to put God first, Family second, Work third, Service fourth, and everything else after that. We must each strive to seek God’s truth and live in accordance with His teachings using faith, reason, wisdom, critical thinking, and principle; while exercising compassion, humbleness, and selfless love. It is best to view life, the world, faith, and the Bible through the lens of Jesus Christ.
We believe that beyond these core tenets of faith and reason; everyone may exercise their faith in accordance with their own beliefs, interpretation, and individual faith walk. Our purpose is to serve God as one united body, not allow disagreements to divide us. Whether or not something is inherently good or bad, especially in matters of faith, is partially dependent on our heart, motivations, and interpretation. For it says in the Bible: “Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.” (Romans 14:13-19 ESV); “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians, 12:4-7 NIV); “Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.” (1 Corinthians, 12:12-14 NIV); and finally “All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the Lord weighs the motives.” (Proverbs 16:2)
The primary faith message of Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism emphasizes:
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism has a political stance that emphasizes neutrality and general avoidance of political entanglement, because its primary purpose is not political. However, if circumstances dictate that a stance must be taken on a particular issue, a perspective that is generally moderate and centrist in nature shall be sought. Any perspective that is adopted, and any decisions that are made, must be based on critical thinking supported by verifiable facts, evidence, and knowledge; including the inspiration and guidance of God and the Holy Spirit, and the wisdom of Biblical teaching.
The Core Values of NDCI embody our want to be the best representatives of Christ in the world that we can be.
Impartiality
We are committed to serving everyone equitably, and everyone is welcome to participate in NDCI activities. We make no discrimination based on nationality, race, gender, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, class, political perspective, or otherwise. However we do not encourage or facilitate sinful behavior; rather, we encourage and facilitate people. We also recognize that the issue of sin is largely a personal one, between each person and God directly.
Neutrality
In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, we have made a commitment not to take sides in hostilities, endorse a political viewpoint or opinion, or engage in product endorsements or political activities; unless directly related to our mission or beliefs. When neutrality cannot be maintained, we strive as much as possible for a moderate fact-based perspective that is strongly rooted in truth.
Independence
First and foremost, we encourage independent and critical thinking. We also value partnerships and we recognize and respect the rule of law. But it is equally important to maintain autonomy and independence so that we are able at all times to act in accordance with our principles and the Will of God.
Service
The core of our beliefs is our commitment to serve God and serve others. To accomplish this goal with the most effectiveness we must not be motivated by thought of reward, but rather our duty to serve others in furtherance of the common good.
Faith
We define faith as a relationship with God through Jesus. We believe that the best way to share our faith is to demonstrate it through action, service, compassion, kindness, and by building relationships with others; it should not be forced or coerced. Because of this we generally do not proselytize, but will gladly share our faith with anyone that asks.
Leadership
We must strive to be leaders and examples to others. By living our faith, seeking wisdom and truth, and working together with other groups through partnership, cooperation, and collaboration; we seek to help each other and advance worthy causes for the betterment of all.
Excellence
We must strive for excellence in everything we do and put a high value on truth. We must constantly seek self-improvement, avoid intellectual stagnation, and recognize our blind spots. By that same token, it is important for each of us to maintain high personal standards of conduct, integrity, and intellectual thought.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism thrives as fellowships utilizing small-group settings where everyone is on equal footing and ideas can be exchanged freely; rather than the traditional church and sermon format where the message is generally one-way coming from a pastor. As followers of Jesus, users of reason, and seekers of truth; a core part of the NDCI process is personal, faith, and leadership development.
Personal / Faith / Leadership Development (PFLD) sessions are opportunities to host Bible studies, build faith, discuss faith related issues, encourage personal growth and development, attain knowledge and wisdom, and learn leadership and critical thinking skills. The PFLD session should start with the following (or similar) statement: “All are welcome to become Thinkers; the only real requirement is to have a genuine interest in seeking the truth using Faith, Reason, Critical Thinking, and Principle. The purpose of this is not to tell you what to think, but to encourage you to consider what is being discussed. Everyone may voice their own opinions and perspectives freely, as long as it is done civilly and respectfully. All viewpoints are welcome; but be prepared to discuss them with the group and provide verifiable facts and objective evidence as proof to back up any claims.” PFLD sessions must be conducted in a non-judgmental communal discussion format. It is important to create an atmosphere and culture where everyone may speak openly and question freely, without threat of ridicule. The purpose of the PFLD session is to encourage and facilitate free thinking, communal faith building, and personal / spiritual growth, while cultivating skills useful for life and leadership in a conversational type setting. It is not an indoctrination session and should not be motivated by an agenda to make anyone think a certain way. Rather, the goal is to create a forum with guided talking points where everyone may voice their individual perspectives and ideas, while providing them with the tools to make their own decisions. Although discussion topics should be presented from a Christ-centered objective perspective and be in line with the core beliefs and faith message of NDCI (and generally be affirming of the basic universally accepted tenants of faith in Jesus); not all discussion topics have to be strictly faith based.
Beyond the core tenets of belief, and as much as it is possible to do so, discussion topics should not take or enforce a specific viewpoint, interpretation, or perspective, and should encourage independent and critical thinking. Alternate and varying concepts and perspectives may be presented, especially as talking points, but must be done from a neutral or fact-based perspective as much as possible. Sessions should start with an introduction to the topic or lesson by a facilitator and/or presenter, and then following the introduction or lesson, everyone should be given the opportunity to ask questions and participate. Although the more traditional church style services are technically compatible with NDCI thinking, the standard and primary PFLD format within NDCI should be the topic-based conversational discussion model.
For large groups, after the initial topic introduction or lesson, attendees can be broken up into small groups for discussion. At the end, all groups should be given the opportunity to share with everyone key points or discussion items that came out during the small group time. The role of the facilitator in a PFLD session and other faith related NDCI activities is not to be a pastor or minister, but rather a facilitator and moderator. The tone of PFLD sessions and other faith related activities should be welcoming and conversational. Those in attendance must feel open to participating in the conversation and free to ask any questions they may have.
Although Chaplains are typically assigned to oversee and act as facilitators for PFLD Fellowships, Gatherings, and sessions, including presenting topics and discussions and providing logistics and support; others should be encouraged to be presenters by developing and presenting PFLD topics within the PFLD framework. This will allow for differing voices and perspectives in keeping with the spirit of PFLD.
When making decisions it’s important to ensure that not only are decisions guided by faith, reason, wisdom, critical thinking, and principle; but that they are made ethically. When weighing decisions (or their potential outcomes) from an ethical perspective, there are five aspects that should be considered:
1. Respect for autonomy – This principle refers to the capacity of people to be self-determining and the importance of freedom to make decisions for themselves without undue pressure, coercion or other forms of persuasion. Even when acting in the best interests of others, it is important that their own choices and wishes be respected as much as possible.
2. Beneficence – This principle describes an obligation to act for the benefit of others. Acting in this way might involve preventing or removing harm, or it might involve the active promotion of some good. The aim of beneficent action is to produce the “best” result one can out of a range of possibilities. It can involve cost/benefit analysis so that the “best” will be the best possible action in which the benefits produced outweigh the costs or the risks. Put simply, it is to always act in the best interests of those involved.
3. Non-maleficence – Duties of non-maleficence require us to refrain from causing deliberate harm or intentional avoidance of actions that might be expected to cause harm. Generally, obligations of non-maleficence are more stringent than obligations of beneficence, but again a cost/benefit analysis may need to be undertaken to identify the best possible action. In some situations harm may be unavoidable and then we must be sure that the benefits outweigh the harm.
4. Justice – The principle of justice requires that we do what we can to ensure that costs and benefits are fairly distributed. It is possible to obey the principle of non-maleficence and the principle of beneficence, yet still not behave in an ethical manner, for these two principles do not say anything about how benefits should be apportioned. In a given case it may well be true that we can only procure a major benefit for some people by slightly harming the interests of others. The principle of beneficence may say we should go ahead, but then the benefits and costs would be unfairly distributed. In general, decision makers must attempt to distribute benefits and costs as evenly as possible.
5. Morality – The principle of morality requires that we check in with God and the Bible to determine if our decision is in line with God’s purpose and plan. It is possible to make decisions that conform to all the other principles while still being immoral. Ultimately, we are each directly accountable to God and must always strive to serve in accordance to His plan and will. In practice this requires contemplative prayer and review of related scripture in consultation with God, while using critical thinking, wisdom, and reasoning skills to determine if our decisions are aligned with what God wants us to do.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism is intended to be an open forum for discussing views and values; however we place great emphasis on finding and following the truth because we believe as Christians we must speak truth to the world. We have developed a specific process for making decisions or discussing issues that must be followed in all aspects and contexts of decision making or discussion. It is also important to note that only God truly knows the truth, so being flexible and open to new information is also an important aspect of the NDCI process. We believe that the closest we can get to truth occurs at the intersection of faith, reason, wisdom, critical thinking, and principle. The process is as follows:
1. An issue must be considered prayerfully, seeking guidance, wisdom, and counsel from God and the Bible. However when using the Bible as a source, it is very important to understand that the Bible is complicated and nuanced, written by man but divinely inspired by God to be a guide in matters of faith and salvation; but it also does not exist in a vacuum. As such, its historicity is complicated and it must be studied carefully with extra attention paid to context like social, religious, historical, cultural, and empirical data. The acts and example of Jesus are considered the highest source (since He was God incarnate). It is also critically important to humbly ask God for guidance and wisdom in matters of Biblical interpretation, including the influence of the Holy Spirit; as only God truly knows the truth. It is also critical to be open-minded and willing to change our mind or interpretation should the facts and guidance from God lead us in that direction.
2. The issue must be looked at objectively from all angles, considering all relevant data; including the validity and motivation(s) of the data source(s). Only objective data from valid sources should be considered.
3. Outlier data should always be considered; but consideration should be correlative to statistical significance to the mean.
4. In general, the solution with the most objective corroborating/supporting evidence and/or the simplest mechanism (Occam’s razor) shall generally be considered the “true” solution.
5. All views, positions, and issues are welcome to be discussed; but whenever something is introduced or conveyed as “truth”, the burden of proof lies with the one presenting it to prove that it is actually true (see #4 above). Only sufficient proof like valid objective data from credible sources shall be considered as reliable evidence for arguments claiming or supporting truth.
How we conduct ourselves is very important because we may be the only Bible some people ever read. We must strive to be better at being compassionate, kind, and good towards others. To that end, the following twelve principles exist as a guide to help encourage ourselves and others to be better people.
1. Honor Life – Respect the sanctity of life in all its forms, and seek peace whenever possible.
2. Be of Sound Mind, Body, and Moral Conscience – Know right from wrong and avoid behavior that is sinful or immoral; especially behavior that is racist, prejudiced, dishonest, unethical, or that brings discredit to yourself. Recognize that the issue of sin is primarily a personal one, between each individual person and God directly. We believe that it is largely the responsibility of each person to determine morality for themselves within the context of their own faith walk; but we also must each strive to live in alignment with God’s teachings. This is done by consulting God and the Bible directly, considering the wise counsel of others, and operating from an open-minded perspective of seeking truth; understanding that each person will have to one day stand before God and account for their own life.
3. Be Wholesome – Seek to embody the Fruits of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control. Avoid swearing, cussing, or using vulgar language. Keep your actions and behavior family friendly, kind, polite, thoughtful, and good; as much as it is possible to do so. You are an example to others and there are already enough examples of bad behavior in the world.
4. Be Honorable – Practice the Golden Rule (Treat others as you wish to be treated) and strive to do the right thing. Act as peacemakers, comforters, and healers; and avoid being inflammatory. Make decisions prayerfully, with wisdom and critical thinking. Avoid making decisions rashly based on emotion or ideology. Always seek and represent truth, and strive to be beyond reproach. Remember that we are called to serve a greater good.
5. Be Compassionate – Act with compassion, kindness, friendliness, empathy, mercy, and care toward others; especially those you might disagree with. It is very important to make an effort to see good in others. But also seek not to encourage or endorse immoral behavior. Remember however that we are called to love everyone, and that sin is primarily a personal issue between each person and God.
6. Be Reputable – Present yourself in a way that conveys kindness, honor, and integrity at all times. Use wisdom and critical thinking when engaging in political activity or other controversial topics. Seek to bring people and ideas together, rather than sowing division. Impartiality and neutrality is important for building bridges and seeking truth.
7. Be Responsible – Do not overly indulge in activities or behaviors that impair your judgment. Be reliable and dependable; and be sure to keep your word if given.
8. Be Healthy – Take care of your body and avoid as much as possible behaviors that are addictive or that negatively impact your health.
9. Be Dutiful – Seek to serve the common good. Recognize that God calls us to follow societal rules and laws, as long as they don’t directly contradict His law. Therefore, it is important to follow the rules and laws of the states and nations where you reside or travel, and respect their cultures and customs.
10. Be Faithful – Seek to honor God in your words and actions, and recognize that faith is a personal relationship between each individual person and God through Christ. Seek Jesus each and every day and in all aspects of life, and strive to embody the Fruits of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Generosity, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control. Understand that Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism is a faith-based belief system and that following Jesus is the central focus of it. However, it is open to everyone.
11. Be Wise – Strive for knowledge and use good judgment. Consider other perspectives, beliefs, interpretations and biases; and approach issues objectively based on logic and fact while in consultation with God. Seek to understand the motivations behind, and basis of, beliefs and actions; both of others and yourself. Be willing to accept when you are wrong, and treat mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth. Practice introspection and demonstrate humility.
12. Be Selfless – Be willing to put the needs of others before yourself and don’t be motivated solely by thought of reward. Realize you may have to sacrifice your own comfort to help others. Have the mindset of service to the greater good over service to self, but also practice good boundaries and be wary of those who seek to take advantage of you.
NDCI does not utilize ministers or pastors as a role, title, or position. Instead, the duties traditionally carried out by these entities are done by NDCI ordained Chaplains. Chaplains primarily act as facilitators, guides, and counselors; as well as providing logistical and administrative support to NDCI activities and ceremonies. They may at times perform a leadership function, but must never be dictatorial in how they conduct their faith-based duties and activities (especially towards non-personnel), because their role in this regard is primarily as a facilitator. NDCI Chaplains are typically Rated C.A.A. personnel who get and maintain a Chaplain role qualification. In addition, qualified civilians that meet Chaplain eligibility requirements may be trained and certified as NDCI Chaplains when needed or authorized. Especially in cases of NDCI Fellowships that exist outside of the Central Aid Agency.
Chaplains are held to a high standard of personal and professional conduct and must be living examples of NDCI values, as well as Devoted Followers of Jesus. Chaplains that fail to maintain a high standard of personal and professional conduct can face discipline and removal. They must set the example for others. Chaplains are also expected to be kind, compassionate, and understanding toward others; while also utilizing intelligence, knowledge, and wisdom.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism is represented by a white star on a grey background. Contained on the star are symbols, both in the middle, and on each of the five points of the star. The five points of the star, and the emblems located there, represent the 5 distinct yet inter-connected points of guidance for NDCI thinking that together help guide us toward truth and goodness: Faith (top), Reason (left), Wisdom (right), Critical Thinking (lower left), and Principle (lower right). At the center of the star are Calvary Crosses, which represent Christianity and the importance of the sacrifice that Christ made for our sins. The recognition of which and the relationship it represents, is the only path to eternal life. Overlaying the top of the center cross is the red Trinity Symbol representing the Holy Trinity and the blood of Jesus spilled on the cross. The star is white, which represents purity, both that which Christ brought; but also the importance of seeking what is true and right. The symbols are Blue, which represents the Heavenly realm and is a reminder that all things come from, and are subordinate to, God. The background is Grey, which represents the ambiguity of life, and the fact that rarely are issues clearly black and white; but usually grey. The flag also contains the NDCI motto (in Latin): Cum Sapientia Quaerite Veritatem; “With Wisdom Seek Truth”.
Groups that choose to adopt and practice Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism in a formalized way are referred to as Fellowships. Formalized NDCI “services” are typically called Personal, Faith, and Leadership Development (PFLD) sessions; but may also be called gatherings, forums, or meetings. Those that practice NDCI are typically called “Thinkers” or “Christian Thinkers”. Gatherings typically center around a PFLD style session that is typically longer and more in-depth than those that are part of normal C.A.A. meetings and activities; and also in which the community is encouraged to participate and where no relationship to the C.A.A. is required or suggested (though C.A.A. personnel are welcome and encouraged to participate, in or out of uniform). NDCI Gatherings and participation may take the place of traditional church services, or occur in addition to them. NDCI Fellowships and Gatherings are open to all, and everyone interested is encouraged to participate. Details surrounding how Fellowships typically operate are included below:
Location
NDCI Fellowships are typically co-located within a Central Aid Agency Community Hub and Unit Resource Center Headquarters (CHURCH), but may also be unrelated to C.A.A. operations and held at other facilities.
Leadership
Fellowships are typically led by Chaplains who are responsible for overseeing the Fellowship, acting as facilitators, and providing logistical and administrative support. For Fellowships that operate within a C.A.A. CHURCH, these Chaplains are typically Rated C.A.A. personnel. For Fellowships that operate apart from C.A.A. operations or facilities they may have Rated Chaplains assigned to them, or qualified civilians that meet Chaplain eligibility requirements may be trained and certified as NDCI Chaplains.
Transparency
Because NDCI values thought, discussion, and ideas; transparency in all aspects of NDCI activities is important. Those that have questions, outside perspectives, or want to know more should always be welcomed to observe or participate. NDCI should truly be welcoming and friendly to everyone, so inclusion and transparency are critical.
Music
Unlike most traditional church services, music is not typically included as a regular part of an NDCI Gathering. Instead, music typically exists as a standalone activity, either as a special presentation during a PFLD session, following a Gathering, or as an independent activity. NDCI Fellowships may maintain a choir, band, or other musical group for these purposes.
Baptism
NDCI recognizes and practices non-denominational Baptism. Baptisms are typically conducted by a Chaplain, but may be conducted by anyone who is trained properly in how to do them. Baptisms are done for persons old enough to pledge their lives to Christ and recognize the significance of the ceremony. The format for a Baptism may be either through full emersion (the preferred method), or the sprinkling or dousing of water on the head/forehead (primarily used for those that cannot be submerged).
Communion
NDCI recognizes and practices non-denominational Communion. Communion occurs immediately following a Baptism, but may also be done at other times, such as special occasions or significant faith holidays such as Christmas or Easter. Communion is open to all believers, and all may partake who believe themselves to be a believer. Communion is undertaken with bread, or an equivalent, representing the Body of Christ; and with grape juice or very low alcohol wine representing the Blood of Christ.
Marriage
NDCI recognizes and practices non-denominational Christian marriage. We believe that God created humanity as male and female and that God’s plan for marriage and sexuality is as a covenant between a biological man and biological woman (affirmed by Jesus Himself in Matthew 19:4-6), and that this covenant was established and blessed by God as His ideal model for marriage and family. Because of this belief, NDCI Chaplains may only officiate Biblical marriage ceremonies between a consenting adult man and a consenting adult woman; in an official capacity.
But we also recognize that this is a complex moral issue. There are biological and genetic realities that must be considered (like those of intersex people); and that gender expression and sexual orientation are complicated issues, with many potential influences, causes, and considerations. Even though we always want to strive for the moral ideal as defined by God, it is important to also be compassionate, loving, and caring towards all people; because the issue of sin is primarily between each person and God directly. Therefore, it is extremely important to humbly and prayerfully consider all sides when it comes to these matters; and seek the genuine guidance of God towards His truth, while demonstrating love and wisdom.
Fellowship Emblem
NDCI Fellowships are designated by the NDCI Fellowship Emblem, which consists of the NDCI Star overlaid on a heraldic shield with a grey cross and four dark blue quadrants. The shield represents the Central Aid Agency and the origin of NDCI. The grey represents the ambiguity of life, and the dark blue represents the Heavenly realm and supremacy of God. The Fellowship Emblem may be incorporated into signs, banners, media, print materials, and other emblems related to NDCI Fellowships.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism has five officially recognized organizations (called orders) that can be activated as needed to help support the NDCI faith and provide a more formalized organizational structure for committed NDCI Thinkers. Two of the orders are religious orders of service, two are religious orders of benevolence, and one is an order of merit (award). Members of each religious order take an oath upon induction: either the Oath of Service (for the orders of service); or the Oath of Benevolence (for the orders of benevolence). The Christian Order of Knights of the Cross does not feature an oath; as it is only an order of merit and not a religious order. Members are free to serve in multiple NDCI orders at the same time. The Guardian Oath is an additional oath specific to Guardians (security and protective personnel). The Christian Service Army (Central Aid Agency) also features additional oaths required for the induction of Commissioned Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers.
Only orders that are currently active are listed here.
The Christian Order of the Trinity is one of the two NDCI religious orders of benevolence, and is specific to the Trinity International Association and in particular the Executive Leadership Board. The Christian Order of the Trinity (COTT) is dedicated to fundraising and philanthropic activities to support the Trinity International Association and its mission, but it is also responsible for the operation of the Association and its interests. Members of the Trinity International Association Executive Leadership Board are all ceremonially sworn into the Christian Order of the Trinity upon the beginning of their service on the Board. The President of the Trinity International Association serves as the order’s ceremonial leader with the title of President, and all other members are given a title related to their relative position within the order and/or their organizations; unless they already have a rank or title from another NDCI order. The order uses insignia similar to that of the Trinity International Association. Membership in the order is mandatory for members of the TIA Executive Leadership Board and is open to any other members of the Association inducted into the order by the Executive Leadership Board. The Christian Order of the Trinity also has the distinction of having oversight and authority over all other NDCI religious orders and organizations through the Executive Leadership Board.
The Christian Service Army (also known as the Central Aid Agency Christian Service Army or just Central Aid Agency) is the official NDCI ministry and religious military order of service. Full members of the order are sworn into the Christian Service Army by taking the Oath of Service, they are then given a Rating based on their personnel type, and assigned a Rank. Once sworn in, they are called Troopers. Troopers are supported by Non-Rated personnel that perform additional, often frontline, tasks as an operational auxiliary; and civilian personnel that primarily perform administrative and support services. All Central Aid Agency Christian Service Army personnel are collectively called Aiders in reference to their primary mission of service and helping others.
The Christian Order of Knights of the Cross is the official NDCI honorific order of merit and the only dedicated NDCI award. It can be granted by NDCI senior leadership within the Chaplain Corps to anyone that distinguishes themselves in service to NDCI principles with uncommon exceptionalism, in one or more of the following areas: Faith, Reason, Wisdom, Critical Thinking, or Principle, including but not limited to; Neutrality, Independence, Service, Leadership, or Excellence. The award consists of a shield with grey border featuring the knights cross on it, with NDCI lettering in blue over a blue background. The enamel ribbon and ribbon yardage features a red-white-red pattern.
Non-Denominational Christian Intellectualism at its core seeks to follow Jesus, represent truth, and be a positive influence on the world; while reviving and embracing the intellectual, scientific, and philosophical pursuits that have historically been associated with Christianity. NDCI was originally created by the Central Aid Agency to be its core belief structure, to encourage personnel to engage in apolitical reasoning and critical thinking from a faith context. The creation of NDCI was a direct result of growing anti-intellectualism and the increasing politicization and polarization of mainstream Christianity. All of which run counter to the core values of the agency; which put a high value on neutrality, moderate perspective, and seeking factual truth while engaging faith. The Central Aid Agency remains the primary steward of NDCI, and all of the core concepts that comprise NDCI thinking originate from Central Aid Agency policy and documents. Within the Central Aid Agency, the Chaplain Corps is specifically charged with overseeing and furthering NDCI however possible and helping to facilitate Personal Faith and Leadership Development sessions for the agency and on its behalf. To that end, the Chaplain Corps is responsible for establishing the standards and training for NDCI Chaplains, both Rated and Civilian. The Chaplain Corps also holds all the rights to NDCI content and symbols and governs how they may be used.
