Beginning in the sixteenth century with small groups of radical Protestants seeking to "purify" the newly formed Church of England, Congregationalism spread to Holland and then to the American colonies where it became the dominant church of New England.  For many years Congregational churches and ministers were at the forefront of American religious and cultural life.  This heritage is continued in contemporary times by the churches of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches, for whom this course is primarily designed.

Part I follows Congregationalism from its founding to the controversial merger with the Evangelical and Reformed Church in 1957.

Von Rohr, John. The Shaping of American Congregationalism.
Walker, Williston. The Creeds and Platforms of Congregationalism.
Piedmont College. Readings in Congregational History and Polity.
Piedmont College. Study Guide

Part II picks up the story of the "Continuing Congregationalists," who in 1955 formed the NACCC.  A comprehensive picture is painted using readings from the Congregationalist, official NACCC documents, and comparative studies of Congregational, Episcopal, and Presbyterian polities.

"Congregationalists," Piedmont Readings.
"Congregationalists on Churches & the Church," Piedmont Readings
"Congregationalists on Social Issues," Piedmont Readings
NACCC, official documents. Study Guide

History/Polity

When: August 17-23, 2008
Where: Congregational Library, Boston, MA
Cost: $300 deposit.  Total cost estimated at $400-650

For additional information please contact Tressa Stein.