The Open Dictionary

Congregationalism

noun

UK/ˌkɒŋ.ɡrɪˈɡeɪ.ʃᵊn.ə.lɪ.zᵊm/
US/ˌkɑːŋ.ɡrəˈɡeɪ.ʃᵊn.ə.lɪ.zᵊm/

Definitions of Congregationalism noun

  1. Uncountablereligionspecialized

    A Protestant Christian denomination originating in the 17th century, which upholds the principle that each local church is self-governing and independent of external authority like bishops or other church officials.

    • In the early American colonies, many communities adopted Congregationalism as their primary religious affiliation.

    • The rise of Congregationalism challenged the hierarchical structure of traditional churches, emphasizing the autonomy of local congregations.

    • Churches within Congregationalism are typically governed by their members collectively, rather than being controlled by higher-ranking clergy.