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National Association of Congregational Christian Churches,  P.O. Box 288, Oak Creek, WI  53154
414-764-1620 
Email: naccc@naccc.org   Web Site: http://www.naccc.org

by Rev. Dr. Donald P. Olsen, Dean, CFTS

The Congregational tradition has a rich and textured history which is inseparable from the development of the American nation and way of life. Our forbearers embodied a pioneering spirit in the birth of democracy, higher education, abolition of slavery, issues of science and faith, the separation of church and state and the inherent tension of diverse theological thought to mention a few. While much has been accomplished, we are not yet fully beyond such issues. Pastor John Robinson wrote, "But there is no creature so perfect in wisdom and knowledge, but may learn something for time present and to come, by times past."

The once offered Congregational History and Polity course is being moved and renewed. In the fall of 2003, Olivet College will be offering the history and polity course on-line for credit or audit. Details for registration will be available at www.olivetcollege.edu this fall.

This independent study is a mix of narrative and source material which is divided into two parts, each containing eight chapters of study. Study begins with Congregationalism's sixteenth century origins and ends with current issues facing Congregational churches. Topics include:

· Old World Antecedents
· New World Beginnings
· Covenants and Platforms
· Revival and Revolution
· "Unitarian Christianity"
· The Second Great Awakening
· Issues of the E&R Merger
· Profiles of the NACCC Founders
· Congregational thought on Churches and "the Church"
· Structures and Functions of the NACCC
· Congregationalists on Social and Ethical Issues
· Supplemental reading on a variety of topics

This on-line course allows students to work at their own pace, read materials on line or print them for off-line use. Some materials are printed and may be purchased through the NA office. There are on-line discussion groups, exams and communications with your instructor. The course materials promise an enriching and stimulating educational experience which will enhance the student's understanding of Congregationalism today.

If you have a question, please contact me at dolsen@naccc.org

The description offered by Williston Walker¹ is worth considering as we seek our identity in the 21^st century:

But while the Congregational system of church government is thus widely diffused [. . .] the body known as the Congregational churches has a distinct unity and history. It represents something more than a form of government. It is characterized by a high degree of unity in doctrinal development, by a marked desire for learning both in the ministry and in the laity, by similar modes of worship, and above all, by a visible oneness of fellowship manifested in advisory council and in occasional or regularly recurring assemblies for consultation.

¹ A History of the Congregational Churches in the United States, New York: The Christian Literature Company, 1894 (438 pp) p 427

Rev. Dr. Lloyd Hall is the Association's Historian
and serves Plymouth Congregational Church of Lansing, MI

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