CONGREGATIONALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Congregationalism is a religious and governance system that emphasizes the autonomy and authority of individual local churches within a broader confederation or association. It is based on the belief that each congregation has the right to independently govern its own affairs, including the selection of its leaders and the decision-making processes. Congregationalism is commonly associated with Protestant Christianity, particularly the Puritan movement in England and its subsequent influence on American colonial churches.
In congregationalist churches, members of the church have a direct say in the decision-making process, often through democratic voting. This stands in contrast to hierarchical forms of church governance, where authority is vested in a central authority or in the hands of a select group of leaders. Congregationalism places a high value on the individual's relationship with God and their personal responsibility in matters of faith.
Congregationalist churches are usually united through voluntary associations or conferences that provide a supportive network, but do not assert control over individual congregations. This allows for a great deal of diversity and flexibility in worship styles, theological beliefs, and policies among congregationalist churches. Congregationalism enables local churches to maintain their unique identity while participating in broader cooperative efforts, such as missionary work or common initiatives.
Overall, congregationalism is a form of church governance that emphasizes the autonomy, independence, and direct participation of individual churches, allowing for a diverse expression of faith within a wider community of believers.
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The system of church government in which each church or congregation claims complete control of its own affairs.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CONGREGATIONALISM
- xongregationalism
- vongregationalism
- fongregationalism
- dongregationalism
- cingregationalism
- ckngregationalism
- clngregationalism
- cpngregationalism
- c0ngregationalism
- c9ngregationalism
- cobgregationalism
- comgregationalism
- cojgregationalism
- cohgregationalism
- confregationalism
- convregationalism
- conbregationalism
- conhregationalism
- congregstionalism
- congragationalism
- congregashionalism
- congrogrationalism
Etymology of CONGREGATIONALISM
The word "congregationalism" is derived from the term "congregation", which originated from the Latin word "congregatio" meaning "a gathering or collection". In the context of religious organization and governance, "congregation" refers to a group of people who worship and interact together.
The suffix "-ism" is a common linguistic element used to denote a belief, practice, or doctrine. When added to "congregation", it transforms the noun into a term representing a particular religious belief system or tradition, leading to the word "congregationalism".
Consequently, "congregationalism" refers to the religious doctrine and practice of a church governance system where individual congregations have autonomy and make their own decisions, rather than being subject to a central governing authority. It is commonly associated with Protestant Christian denominations, particularly those belonging to the Congregationalist tradition.
Similar spelling words for CONGREGATIONALISM
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