As an offshoot from America’s Disciples of Christ movement (Christian Church [Disciples of Christ]), the Churches of Christ had by the beginning of the 20th century separated into an uncompromisingly distinctive “brotherhood.” Taking a firm stand against the quiet, almost inevitable move from sect to denomination, these churches—without hierarchy or headquarters or national program—resisted modernity and ecumenicity in their ecclesiastical life. Most conspicuous was their rejection of instrumental music, of Sunday schools, and of permanent resident pastors. Like th…