New Apostolic church facts for kids
The New Apostolic Church (NAC) is a Christian denomination. This means it is a type of Christian church. It started in 1863 when it separated from the Catholic Apostolic Church in Hamburg. This separation is sometimes called a schism, which means a split or division.
Today, the church has groups of followers, called congregations, all around the world. It has about 10 million members. The main office of the New Apostolic Church is in Zurich, Switzerland.
The church focuses on two main ideas: charity (which means helping others) and the Second Coming of Christ. Most of its beliefs are similar to other mainstream Christian churches. It also has church services, called a liturgy, that are like those in Protestantism. Its organization is similar to the Roman Catholic Church.
The New Apostolic Church sees itself as a continuation of the early Christian church. Its spiritual leaders are called Apostles.
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What is the New Apostolic Church?
The New Apostolic Church is a worldwide Christian faith. It believes in the teachings of the Bible and follows Christian traditions. The church teaches that God loves all people and wants them to be saved.
How the Church Began
The New Apostolic Church started in the 1800s. It grew out of a movement called the Catholic Apostolic Church. In 1863, a group separated from this church in Hamburg, Germany. This event led to the creation of the New Apostolic Church as we know it today.
Where is the Church Located?
You can find New Apostolic Church congregations in many countries. They have members all over the world. The main headquarters for the church is located in Zurich, Switzerland. This is where the church's international leaders work.
Main Beliefs and Practices
The New Apostolic Church shares many beliefs with other Christian churches. They believe in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
Helping Others: Charity
One very important idea in the New Apostolic Church is charity. This means actively helping people in need. Members are encouraged to show love and kindness to everyone. They often take part in projects that help their communities.
The Second Coming of Christ
Another key belief is the Second Coming of Christ. This is the belief that Jesus Christ will return to Earth one day. The church teaches its members to be ready for this event.
Church Services and Leaders
The way the church holds its services, called a liturgy, is similar to Protestant churches. During services, there is singing, prayers, and sermons. The church is organized in a way that reminds some of the Roman Catholic Church.
The leaders of the New Apostolic Church are called Apostles. They are seen as spiritual guides for the church members. The church believes it continues the work of the early Christian church.
