History

The Progressive Christian Alliance was founded in May of 2008 by Revs. Roger and Melissa McClellan, Rev. Terry McGuire, and Rev. Jarrod Cochran with the idea of blurring the lines between network and denomination and transcending both. With unique experiences in both the mainline protestant and evangelical churches, these founders sought to create an organization that affirmed and respected their respective traditions and welcomed diverse faith paths and experiences.

Those original members established the foundational principles as: concern for social justice; respect for theological diversity; and, welcome for all to participate equally in the life of the church.

The Progressive Christian Alliance seeks to facilitate connection and build community between progressive or inclusive ministers and ministries, to train and ordain new clergy, and to support new and diverse faith communities.

The alliance also has a strong ecumenical focus, ordaining clergy that serve in churches of other denominations as well as welcoming clergy from other denominations into full membership in the Progressive Christian Alliance, without requiring those to break their ties with their other affiliations. Clergy of the Progressive Christian Alliance serve not only in traditional church settings, but also in chaplaincies, non-profit organizations, and many other settings.