Congregationalist etymology

Etymology:

The word "Congregationalist" originates from the Latin word "congregare," which means "to gather."

Meaning:

Congregationalism is a Protestant Christian religious movement that emphasizes the autonomy and self-governance of individual local congregations.

Origin:

Congregationalism emerged in the early 17th century in England as a reaction to the centralized authority of the Anglican Church. Separatist groups, such as the Pilgrims, sought to establish independent churches that were not subject to the control of the state or any ecclesiastical hierarchy.

Key Beliefs and Principles:

  • Autonomy of Local Congregations: Each congregation is considered to be a self-governing body, independent of any external authorities.
  • Congregational Polity: All members of a congregation have equal voice and authority in making decisions about the church's affairs.
  • Local Leadership: Congregations are led by pastors or ministers who are chosen and accountable to the congregation.
  • Importance of Covenant: Members of a congregation enter into a covenant with each other, promising to support and care for one another.
  • Lay Leadership: Lay members of the congregation play an active role in the church's ministry and leadership.
  • Freedom of Conscience: Congregationalists believe that individuals should have the freedom to interpret scripture and follow their own conscience.

Historical Development:

Congregationalist principles spread throughout England and the American colonies in the 17th and 18th centuries. In the United States, Congregationalist churches played a significant role in the American Revolution and the formation of the republic. In the 19th century, Congregationalists merged with other denominations to form larger denominations such as the United Church of Christ and the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches.

Congregationalist relate terms

  • congregational

    Etymology Latin congregare to gather together Late Latin congregatio an assembly

  • congregation

    Etymology From Middle English congregacioun from Old French congregacion from Late Lat

  • chorister

    Etymology and Meaning Origin Old French choriste or Late Latin chorista Meaning

  • barrister

    Etymology Old French barretor meaning quarrelsome litigious person Late Latin ba

  • independent

    Etymology Derived from the Latin word independens meaning not dependent or self g

  • protestant

    Etymology The word protestant originates from the Latin verb protestari which means

  • play

    Etymology The word play derives from the Middle English plaien which itself originat

  • native

    Etymology Native derives from the Old and Middle English word natif which in turn c

  • Arab

  • tuxedo

    Etymology The word tuxedo is derived from the name of the Tuxedo Park Country Club in T

  • hector

    Etymology The name Hector has ancient Greek origins It is derived from the Greek word

  • comedy

    Etymology The word comedy comes from the Greek word κωμῳδία kōmōidía wh

  • slang

    Etymology of Slang Originated in the 18th century as a shortening of slangwhanger a