Understanding early American church polity and the role of councils in Congregationalism
A detailed, historical look at how Congregational churches organize, govern, and interact with parishes. It explains the concept of a church covenant, the limits of ecclesiastical authority, and how ministers are settled within a community of believers.
This edition examines the nature of congregational governance: what makes a church independent yet in fellowship with others, and how councils are formed, limited to advisory purposes, and invoked for specific occasions. It also discusses the relationship between parishes and their churches, and the role of ordination, installation, and ministerial settlement within this system.
- Learn how Congregationalism defines church membership, ordinances, and mutual care among churches.
- Explore the origins, purpose, and limits of ecclesiastical councils and how they operate.
- See considerations around ordination, missionary work, and the settlement of ministers.
- Grasp debates about the proper balance of parish control and church autonomy.
Ideal for readers of early American religious history, church polity, and the development of Congregational practices.