The Establishment Of Community Church In Lake Almanor

By Iva Cannon


All over the US, a lot of churches have "community'' attached to their names. Similar to towns, churches shrink and grow as well. Merging with 2 or 3 other churches happens when a particular body can no longer independently support themselves. When such merges take place, a new name for the body should be thought of.

These churches frequently agree that they come up with a name that does not reflect the previous background of either denomination. Since the new denomination may be the only one left in the community, it will naturally be known as Community Church in Lake Almanor. Unity is the main goal of these denominations. The members drop any reasonable or doctrinal point so that they can avoid any controversy in the long run.

This is the reason why a lot of these churches allow various beliefs and have loosely defined beliefs. Majority of these churches avoid the potential division usually caused by detailed doctrinal beliefs and focus on what is important just like personal faith in Christ. There are times when a new group would not lose ties with a group for administrative needs just like the supply of pastors. However, they usually become totally independent groups, completely supported by the communities they are serving.

Another reason why such churches were established is due to changes in local bodies and churches. Most of the pioneer ones were established by different bodies by means of sending out circuit-riding preachers or missionary pastors. Due to the influence of the recent theological trends or the merging of bodies, a few of these bodies later changed their beliefs.

The country churches, on the other hand, were usually less updated when it comes to the current trends. However, they spend more time in group and personal Bible studies. This is the reason why country churches are usually more conservative when it comes to their doctrine than the groups they represent.

Many will withdraw from the denomination and establish community churches instead when differences affect the local churches. A new one will be established as part of their belief that they are holding and obeying the command. Associations in quest for support and fellowship form individuals and newly independent churches.

Not so long ago, community church was included in the name of churches because these denominations did not opt to be labeled like a specific denomination. Independent churches actually have differences. There are those charismatic or traditional churches, while others are contemporary or dated. Also, ecumenical or isolationist churches exist. One thing that people should be informed about is that a number of these churches believe or practice principles that are not biblical, but this does not make them unscriptural.

Individuals should personally examine the beliefs and practices of these churches especially if they are considering attending one. The reason behind this is for them to know where these churches stand. Majority of the churches in Chester, CA post their doctrinal statements on the websites or in their offices. Every one of these churches has a set of practices and beliefs that define them whatever its name is. Individuals as believers should find out if the group they are considering is obedient in all things.




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