samedi 9 avril 2016

Foursquare Churches In Las Vegas And Worldwide

By Helen Roberts


The name International Church of the Foursquare Gospel is the full version of the often shortened name, Foursquare Church. The name is used in its short form, ICFG. It was established in 1923 by some preacher and evangelist called Semple McPherson. McPherson based their entire ministry in Los Angeles. On the global stage, ICFG has a total of some 8 million followers. The number of churches under its named exceed sixty thousand while the number of countries it is located also exceed 144.

In the US alone, the denomination was estimated to have more than 353, 995 members. The distribution is quite fair within the whole country although there is a higher concentration of churches along the West Coast. California, Washington, Hawaii, Montana, and Oregon are some among the states with the highest members. Thus when in need of Foursquare churches in Las Vegas, it should not be a problem locating one.

Los Angeles, California houses the headquarters of this church. For a very long time, the headquarters has been located in this city. The name Foursquare stems from the 4-fold ministry that Jesus had on earth. The four-fold ministry refers to Jesus as the Healer, Soon-coming King, Savior, and Baptizer with the Holy Spirit. These four stand for the goals that Jesus had when he came to the world and when he returns.

The compilation named the Declaration of Faith contains an expression of ICFG beliefs. The Declaration of Faith was written by McPherson. Creedal statement is also available go complement the major compilation. The two offer instructions and guidance for the congregation and leaders to follow. The ICFG belief system bases on the verbal inspiration of Bible, doctrine of Holy Trinity, and deity of Jesus.

In this denomination, it is believed that God created man in His likeness, but because of the Fall, man became sinful. However, the death of Jesus atoned for all sins man committed. People who repent sins, accept Jesus and become reborn again have their faith confirmed. Backsliding and commitment of sin after salvation is believed to be totally possible.

The topmost decision making body within the ICFG is the Foursquare Convention. The convention meets after every two years to vote members into office. Members who vote are usually international officers and licensed ministers. Every ICFG church within the US has the right to send a voting delegate to the convention. Similarly, national ICFG churches can also send a single voting delegate.

Management of ICFG churches is in the hands of a board of directors which is composed of between 12 to 20 people. This board is in charge of appointing officers and ordaining and licensing ministers. Board members comprise of a president, vice president, and a minimum of 9 ministers who represent geographic regions. Members of this church in good standing may also serve on the board when appointed.

The main subdivisions in the US church are individual churches, districts, and divisions. There are leaders who oversee the various divisions. The management structure of the church is very comprehensive to enhance decision making processes.




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