Congregationalism

usgb/ˌkɑːŋɡrɪˈɡeɪʃənəlɪzəm/
noun

A type of Christian church organization where each congregation governs itself.

Some branches of Protestantism, including Baptists and Quakers, use congregationalism.
Visual representation of "congregationalism" - A type of Christian church organization where each congregation governs itself.

Often appears as...

  • congregationalism in protestantism
  • congregationalism church governance

Usage tips

Religious

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "congregationalism"
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Self-governance

It highlights the autonomy of individual churches to make their own decisions.

Illustration for Self-governance
Their commitment to congregationalism means they vote on their own leadership.
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Not Centralized

Emphasizes the absence of a higher church authority controlling local congregations.

Illustration for Not Centralized
Under congregationalism, there's no bishop telling the community how to worship.
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Protestant Context

Mainly used within Protestant Christianity, not applicable to other religions.

Illustration for Protestant Context
Congregationalism set many Protestant churches apart from Catholicism's hierarchy.
Visual representation of the word "Congregationalism"

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