About Congregationalism

Guiding Principles

For more on Congregationalism:

The Art and Practice of the Congregational Way

Christ alone is the head of the church.
All church members are spiritually equal and called to the work of ministry.
Every local church is autonomous and complete.
Each local church is called into wider associations of fellowship.
Believers are bound to one another in a voluntary covenant.
Every Christian possesses full liberty of conscience in interpreting the Gospel.
The Bible is fully sufficient as our guide in matters of faith and practice and will inspire individuals and direct the church with fresh light and truth for every generation.

History

Congregationalism can trace its origin story back to the 15th-century Puritan reform movements in England.

In 1620, one such reform group crossed the Atlantic Ocean on the Mayflower in search of separation from the Church of England. These pilgrims founded the Plymouth Colony in what is now Massachusetts.

Congregational churches spread throughout New England and had a significant impact on the early religious, educational, cultural, and political history of the American colonies.

Today, there are Congregational churches throughout the United States. There are several national Congregational associations as well as many unaffiliated Congregational churches.