Here, the story of a church that spans continents begins. The New Apostolic Church. It is a testament to faith and community. It is a global tapestry woven from threads of Christian revival.
In the 1830s, a wave of spiritual awakening swept through England and Scotland. Christians from various denominations yearned for a return to the church. They sought the vibrant activity of the Holy Spirit. They wanted the leadership of the apostle ministry. Their fervent prayers ignited spiritual gifts. Prophecy and healing emerged. In 1832, John Bate Cardale became the first apostle of this second sending. Over the next three years, eleven more men were called to the apostle ministry. They came from diverse backgrounds.
These apostles dedicated a year to studying scripture. They ensured a complete understanding of their apostolic commission. Emerging from their studies, they preached the gospel of Jesus Christ. They sealed souls with the Holy Spirit. They ordained ministers to care for congregations. Their mission was clear. They prepared souls for Christ’s return. This work continues to this day.
By 1863, the original twelve apostles dwindled. Disputes arose about filling vacant positions. This led to a split. The Catholic Apostolic Church divided. The Hamburg congregation chose a different path. They called themselves the Allgemeine christliche apostolische Mission. This translates to General Christian Apostolic Mission. They stayed true to the apostolic cause. From this, the New Apostolic Congregation developed. In 1930, they adopted the name New Apostolic Church.
The early decades focused on unity. Starting in 1897, the Chief Apostle ministry emerged. It became the leading ministry of the Church. In 1922, the Apostles’ College formed. It was the first central organizational entity.
By 1900, the Apostles were active worldwide. They reached North and South America, Africa, Australia, and Indonesia. The New Apostolic Church gained an international character by the 1960s. It became popular in Africa and Asia. Soon, membership surpassed one million.
In 1977, the International Apostles’ Unity was founded. Its successor, the New Apostolic Church International, was founded in 1990. Its headquarters are in Zurich, Switzerland.
In the mid-1980s, a process of opening began. It operated under the motto of personal responsibility. The deregulation of admission to Holy Communion was the starting point. Doctrinal reforms followed. The recognition of universal baptism came next. In 2012, the first exhaustive written record of the New Apostolic doctrine was published. It came in the form of a Catechism.
The Church began to open up to the outside world. Conversations started with other apostolic denominations. Declarations of reconciliation were signed in the 2010s. There was a rapprochement with other Christian denominations. Today, the New Apostolic Church participates in many ecumenical bodies.
The New Apostolic Church has around 10 million members worldwide. They are spread across more than 60 countries. The term “New Apostolic” signifies the restoration of the apostolic ministry today. The church emphasizes evangelism. It encourages members to share their faith. The New Apostolic Church embraces diversity. It welcomes individuals from all cultural backgrounds. It promotes unity and fellowship. The church recognizes other Christian denominations. It emphasizes shared belief in Jesus Christ.
Here at the New Apostolic Church, you’re invited to experience this living history. Feel the echoes of faith. Embrace the spirit of community.