Have you considered that FJKM Fenoarivo could be more than just a church? It is part of a story that stretches back centuries. The Church of Jesus Christ in Madagascar or FJKM plays a vital role in the nation’s history.
Founded in 1968 FJKM united three churches. These churches originated from the London Missionary Society the Paris Evangelical Missionary Society and the Friends Foreign Missionary Association. Today FJKM boasts over 6 million members. These members are spread across more than 7200 congregations. The church also operates in 37 synods nationwide and one international synod.
FJKM’s influence extends beyond religious activities. The church manages 581 schools. It welcomes an average of one new church each week for the past ten years. Despite this growth there are only about 1500 ordained clergy members. This includes approximately 250 women. These ministers oversee many congregations. They receive support from lay pastors and catechists. These individuals can preach and offer pastoral care.
The story of FJKM is intertwined with Madagascar’s history. In 1818 the first missionaries from the London Missionary Society arrived. These missionaries Reverend Thomas Bevan and David Jones landed in Toamasina. They aimed to reach Imerina. Health issues forced them to Mauritius for treatment. Upon their return they met King Radama I.
These British evangelists gained the king’s favor. Around 1819-1820 they helped establish the first school. They assisted Radama I in creating a written form of the Malagasy language. Together they established the Malagasy alphabet and writing rules.
From 1868 Protestantism became a state religion. Queen Ranavalona II and her spouse Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony converted. The Protestant influence significantly impacted the island’s politics. Numerous FJKM churches built in the 19th century stand in Antananarivo’s high city. These churches serve as testaments to this history.
However the colonization of Madagascar from 1896 to 1960 slowed this influence. Protestant missions faced marginalization. After Madagascar’s independence in 1960 Protestantism regained strength. This revival led to the merging of three missions into FJKM.
In 2002 a schism occurred. A pastor from FJKM Andravoahangy Fivavahana dissented. He left FJKM and established the New Protestant Church in Madagascar. This new church has grown to about 300000 members.
In August 2018 FJKM celebrated the 200th anniversary of evangelization. It also marked its 50th anniversary in Toamasina.
FJKM is a member of global Christian organizations. These include the World Communion of Reformed Churches and the World Council of Churches. It partners with the Lutheran Church. Together they form the Federation of Protestant Churches in Madagascar. FJKM collaborates with other Christian churches. These include the Catholic Lutheran and Anglican churches. They form the Christian Council of Churches in Madagascar. This council promotes peace during political crises.
FJKM’s national office manages various departments. These include the Department of Churches the Department of Schools and the Department of Human Resources and Finance. The Department of Churches oversees theological institutions church branches and evangelism. The Department of Schools manages about 720 schools. The Department of Finance and Human Resources handles administration. It also oversees businesses like a cheese-making operation and a printing press.
So when you look at FJKM Fenoarivo remember its deep roots. It represents faith education and community development in Madagascar. It stands as a symbol of resilience and unity.