Q & A With the Minister, Reverend Mark Fountain > Belief Questions > What is a Congregational Church?
Dear Friends:
These are answers to FAQ I receive about the church. They may not supply all the information you need, but perhaps they can start a conversation. Contact me at any time: mfountain@mac.com
Peace,
Mark Fountain, Minister
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Good Question. We are an expression of Protestant Christian faith with deep roots in early American history. Our Puritan and "Pilgrim" forebears emerged from the Church of England in the early 17th Century to create their own identity, eventually settling in present day New England. As America changed, so did Congregationalists, who contributed a strong voice on behalf of education, the abolition of slavery, and the rights of women. As the nation moved west, Congregationalists were active in Northern California, as evidenced by our own church, an historic landmark founded in 1868. Here, we continue to conduct an active ministry in the community.
The Complete Idiots Guide to World's Religions offers a helpful summary:
"Congregationalists honor the Christian community as a covenant of faithful individuals. Each local church operates autonomously, acknowledging only Christ as its head and respecting the relationships of the various congregations as interactions between members of the Christian family. Fellowship and cooperation are at the heart of Congregationalism."