Why are independent churches called independent?
1979: 255). origin and more to the present situation of these churches. They are independent because they are free of outside influence, they are self-governed, they have their own organization, structure, doc- trines, and liturgies.
What led to the rise of African Independent churches?
In many cases, the major reasons were those concerning the African Traditional Religious beliefs in the Western expressions of Christianity. The other reasons were the paternalism of the missionaries which disadvantaged many African-emerging Christian leaders.
What is an independent church in England?
Separatist, also called Independent, any of the English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who wished to separate from the perceived corruption of the Church of England and form independent local churches. … Subsequently, they survived repression and gradually became an important religious minority in England.
What is the meaning of indigenous churches?
Indigenous churches are churches suited to local culture and led by local Christians. There have been two main Protestant strategies proposed for the creation of indigenous churches: Indigenization: Foreign missionaries create well-organized churches and then hand them over to local converts.
What are the characteristics of African independent church?
The uniqueness of the AICs is found in the prominent use of traditional African beliefs, forms, symbols and practices, and the liberal interpretation of the Bible to respond to issues such as those posed by the spirit world in the African worldview. They are also noted for their emphasis on the Holy Spirit.
What do you call someone who doesn’t belong to a religion?
Non-religious people can be called atheists or agnostics, but to describe things, activities, or attitudes that have nothing to do with religion, you can use the word secular. Public schools are secular, but Catholic schools are not.
How many Pentecostal churches do we have in Nigeria?
Nigeria occupies the third place in the world among the nation-states with the largest concentration of Pentecostal (app. 4 million followers), over 500 churches.
What is Pentecost religion?
Pentecost is the festival when Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is celebrated on the Sunday 50 days after Easter (the name comes from the Greek pentekoste, “fiftieth”). … Pentecost is regarded as the birthday of the Christian church, and the start of the church’s mission to the world.