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In the intricate tapestry of American Lutheranism, the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations (AFLC) emerges as a distinct and vibrant denomination. Its roots trace back to the year 1962 when 40-50 congregations from the former Lutheran Free Church (LFC) joined hands to form this ecclesiastical body.
Since its inception, the AFLC has grown to encompass over 265 member congregations, solidifying its place as a prominent Lutheran church in the United States.
A defining characteristic of the AFLC is its status as a free association, not an incorporated synod. Under this framework, each local congregation functions as an independent corporation. While there isn’t a central headquarters, the AFLC’s operational hub finds its home in Plymouth, Minnesota, where the Association Free Lutheran Bible School and Seminary also reside.
The ecclesiastical governance of the AFLC is distinctly congregational, reflecting the principle of local autonomy and self-governance. In the absence of a centralized hierarchy, the Coordinating Committee of the AFLC assumes a pivotal role. Comprised of seven members chosen from among the congregations, this national body serves as a guiding compass, directing the denomination’s collective efforts.
Within the AFLC, theological diversity flourishes, encompassing a broad spectrum of beliefs. However, despite this rich tapestry of theological convictions, a shared commitment to evangelism, missions, and the preservation of traditional Lutheran doctrines remains a common bond among all AFLC churches. This commitment to spreading the gospel and upholding cherished Lutheran beliefs forms the heartbeat of this denomination.
In conclusion, the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations stands as a testament to the strength of unity in diversity. Its congregations, though diverse in theological outlook, remain united by a steadfast dedication to evangelism, missions, and the timeless tenets of Lutheran faith, casting their distinctive imprint on the landscape of American Lutheranism.
Here are some of the key beliefs of the Association of Free Lutheran Congregations:
- The Bible is the inspired Word of God and is the only infallible rule of faith and practice.
- Salvation is by grace through faith alone in Jesus Christ.
- Repentance and water baptism are necessary for salvation.
- The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity and is present in the lives of believers.
- The church is the body of Christ and is made up of all believers.
- The second coming of Christ is imminent.
- The resurrection of the dead and the final judgment will take place.
List of Christian Denominations in USA
- Conservative Congregational Christian Conference
- Reformed Catholic Church
- Church of God Cleveland
- North American Baptist Conference
- Church of God Holiness
- African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church
- Congregational Holiness Church
- International Pentecostal Holiness Church
- Christian Reformed Church in North America
- United Pentecostal Church International
- Christian Union
- Church of God Anderson
- Alliance of Baptists
- Christian Methodist Episcopal Church
- Congregational Methodist Church
- Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church
- Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship
- National Baptist Convention of America
- Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
- American Baptist Association
- Mennonite Church USA
- Progressive National Baptist Convention
- International Church of the Foursquare Gospel
- Reformed Episcopal Church
- Pentecostal Church of God
- Pentecostal Assemblies of the World
- Missionary Church
- Bible Fellowship Church
- Evangelical Free Church of America
- Independent Baptist
- Reformed Church in America
- Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod
- Orthodox Presbyterian Church
- Disciples of Christ church
- Orthodox Church in America
- Worldwide Church of God
- Brethren Church
- National Baptist Convention
- Evangelical Covenant Church
- Christian and Missionary Alliance
- African Methodist Episcopal Church
- Evangelical Presbyterian Church
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
- Church of God of Prophecy
- Church of the Brethren
- Church of God in Christ
- Presbyterian Church in America
- Churches of Christ
- United Church of Christ
- Roman Catholic Church
- Southern Baptist Convention
- Seventh-day Adventist Church
- United Methodist Church
- Calvary Chapel
- Church of the Nazarene
- Assemblies of God
- The Episcopal Church