Drawn together by faith, the story of the Evangelical Free Church begins with separation. The Free Church of England formed when congregations departed from the Church of England in the 1800s. This split happened because Evangelical Low Church clergy opposed introducing Catholic practices.
The Evangelical Free Church’s roots trace back to Reverend James Shore. In 1844 he created the first congregation at St John’s Church Bridgetown. This marked a pivotal moment in the church’s foundation.
Early support came from the Countess of Huntingdon’s Connexion. This group provided ministers with Anglican traditions. These traditions included using the surplice and the Book of Common Prayer.
Benjamin Price became the first bishop. He initially oversaw all new congregations. The Evangelical Free Church expanded its reach.
In 1874, the Evangelical Free Church connected with the Reformed Episcopal Church in North America. This connection strengthened their network. It broadened their influence.
A significant revision occurred in 1956. The Evangelical Free Church updated the Book of Common Prayer. The update aimed to clarify phrases that could lead to “Sacerdotal and Romanising Party” teachings. The Evangelical Free Church wanted to purify its doctrine.
Internal disputes led to a split in 2003. Two bishops and ten congregations formed the Evangelical Connexion. Some congregations later returned.
The Evangelical Free Church maintains a threefold ministry. This includes deacons, presbyters, and bishops. Only men are ordained.
The Church of England recognized the Evangelical Free Church’s orders in 2013. This recognition fostered closer ties. It allowed shared liturgical and ministerial activities.
The Evangelical Free Church experienced growth in the early 20th century. It had 90 congregations. Post-World War II, numbers declined like many UK denominations. Recently, there has been a modest increase in congregations.
Today the Evangelical Free Church has two dioceses. The Northern Diocese and the Southern Diocese serve different regions. John Fenwick leads the Northern Diocese as Bishop. Paul Hunt is the Bishop of the Southern Diocese.
The Evangelical Free Church is part of the Free Churches Group. It is also part of Churches Together in England. These affiliations promote unity among various denominations.
The Evangelical Free Church actively engages in Anglican realignments. They were represented at the launch of the Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans. Their bishops participate in the GAFCON GBE Bishops’ Forum.
The Anglican Church in North America declared full communion with the Evangelical Free Church in 2016. This declaration symbolized a strong bond. It pledged collaboration in spreading the Gospel.
Through challenges and changes, the Evangelical Free Church remains committed to its mission. It continues to serve God in the world. The Evangelical Free Church’s history reflects its unwavering faith. It is a testament to its enduring spirit.