Founded in 1937 The Lord’s New Church stands as a testament to enduring faith. It’s a fascinating story of theological debate and unwavering conviction. This international Christian church didn’t spring up overnight. It emerged from a doctrinal dispute within the General Church of the New Jerusalem. A disagreement centered on the writings of Emanuel Swedenborg. Members of the General Church viewed Swedenborg’s work as paramount. However a Dutch layman H D G Groeneveld proposed a radical idea. He argued Swedenborg’s writings formed a Third Testament alongside the Old and New Testaments. This idea sparked heated debate.
Rev Ernst Pfeiffer championed Groeneveld’s perspective. His Hague Society published a Dutch periodical De Hemelsche Leer exploring these ideas. The General Church rejected this. Pfeiffer refused to cease publication. He was forced to leave the General Church in 1937. This pivotal moment led to the formation of The Lord’s New Church. Rev Theodore Pitcairn an early proponent of Groeneveld’s views played a key role. He and Pfeiffer along with other adherents founded this new church. Its headquarters are in Bryn Athyn Pennsylvania.
The Lord’s New Church teaches three essential principles. They acknowledge Jesus Christ as the sole God. They view Swedenborg’s writings as a Third Testament. They emphasize a life of faith charity and love. The church’s structure is episcopal. This means it has a hierarchical governance with bishops holding chief authority. The organization reflects Swedenborg’s concept of a ‘circle of life’ with ascending and descending lines representing laity and priesthood. The Lord’s New Church operates schools in Lesotho Africa furthering its global mission.
The Second World War delayed the formal establishment of the church’s organization. In 1947 a provisional international council finalized its governmental structure. This structure was approved by members in America and Holland. The Lord’s New Church continues to thrive. It maintains ministries across the globe. Its story is one of intellectual independence and a commitment to its unique theological perspective. This church in New Orleans stands as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the constant evolution of religious thought. The Lord’s New Church continues its mission today. It’s a place where people find spiritual home and guidance.