History
The Ohio Council of Churches is one of the oldest state ecumenical organizations, having been formed in 1919 to promote Christian unity, to develop common programs, and to engage in social outreach. The next year, 1920, the Ohio Pastors Convocation (now the Ohio Ministries Convocation) was held for the first time and has continued as an annual event since then.
Among many strong leaders in the Council's formative years, the Rev. B. F. Lamb stands out as a true guiding force from its outset until leaving as its Executive Secretary in 1951. He and other initial organizers had their vision grow to be embraced by the 17 denominations, 27 judicatories, 6,000 congregations, and 3,000,000 members today.
While the vision of Christian cooperation and unity has held consistent through all these years, the manner in which the Council has worked has varied with the times. The Depression and WWII brought their challenges, as did the world's entrance into the Atomic Age. The struggle for civil rights and respect for personhood has been, and continues to be, important considerations for the Council.
Tomorrow's issues are yet unknown, but the work of the Church must be ready for the demands of the world. There will always be a need to witness collectively, to worship corporately, and to manifest our common discipleship. That is the goal and commitment of the ecumenical partners that make up the Ohio Council of Churches. May God continue to bless our work together.