What is a congregational form of government?

The term congregationalist polity describes a form of church governance that is based on the local congregation. Each local congregation is independent and self-supporting, governed by its own members. Congregations that belong to associations and conventions are still independently governed.

What’s the definition of congregational?

1 : of or relating to a congregation. 2 capitalized : of or relating to a body of Protestant churches deriving from the English Independents of the 17th century and affirming the essential importance and the autonomy of the local congregation.

What does a Congregationalist believe?

Congregationalists believe that no earthly body could be a more authentic church than a particular place that possesses the Bible, the sacraments, a properly called and appointed minister and deacons, and members who have made a genuine Christian profession.

What is the difference between presbyterian and Congregationalist?

Unlike Presbyterians, Congregationalists practise congregational polity (from which they derive their name), which holds that the members of a local church have the right to decide their church’s forms of worship and confessional statements, choose their own officers, and administer their own affairs without any …

Who founded congregationalism?

Robert Browne
The “Congregational way” became prominent in England during the 17th-century Civil Wars, but its origins lie in 16th-century Separatism. Robert Browne has been regarded as the founder of Congregationalism, though he was an erratic character and Congregational ideas emerged independently of him.

Are Baptist churches Congregational?

Baptists are congregational: each church is self-governing and self-supporting, made up of members, each with a role to play. The churches encourage those attending to become church members through baptism. Final authority rests not with the minister or deacons but with church members at the meeting.

What does congregational prayer mean?

Salat al-jama’ah (Congregational Prayer) or prayer in congregation (jama’ah) is considered to have more social and spiritual benefit than praying by oneself. The prayer is performed as normal, with the congregation following the actions and movements of the imam as he performs the salat.

Who founded Congregationalism?