ACOP as a Fellowship

[Karlena]

Well, I must say that this is the first time that I have learned that ACOP has defined itself as a “Fellowship” and I find it extremely refreshing. I have served in various denominational structures over the years (e.g. Christian and Missionary Alliance; PAOC) and, of course, there are many differences. One key element is that a “Fellowship” is an empowering interdependent dynamic in which individual members are encouraged to participate and “come on board” as co-labourers in Christ. Too often in hierarchical structures, for example, a small group make all the decisions, plans all of the activities (and so on) and, as a result, members develop the attitude that mission or disciple-making is for clergy or missionaries. Christian life can become quite stale in these contexts, when individual members cannot be challenged to be all that God is calling them to be in their families and communities. As I reflect on what God wants to do here in Italy, of course a major contrast is the Roman Catholic Church which I think reflects an extremely hierarchal authoritative structure with very centralized power. A major problem is that if the message coming from “the top down” is not a clear (or accurate) gospel message, then all members are lead astray. A “Fellowship” creates a completely different dynamic. It keeps accountability at a relational level, with Jesus Christ as the Head of His Church.

[Kylie]

Conferences would be super important one; because if authority is decided over relationship more than title you need to know the people in your fellowship, you need to build those relationships and that trust. Secondly, because fellowships have very little central control and churches within them have a lot of freedom in ministry it is good to come together and share victories, creative ideas and to champion one another. Conferences bring members together and remind them that being of the fellowship means you are not alone, others are running this race with you and we can celebrate together and understand the big picture of bringing God’s Kingdom.

I grew up in a PAOC church and also worked at 2 of them, not too much felt different except we did have our district leaders come in every so often and evaluate how they think each church is doing and if necessary offer advice and correction to be implemented. It is easier to see the central control effects more but I would not say it is bad, I do however like the term and definition of fellowship and the way it operates better in comparison of my experiences.

[Caleb]

Conferences play a vital role to the fellowship because it gives grounds for relationship. Everyone is choosing to be there and to be part of something for Jesus, and to get to know others who are part of the same movement makes it so much sweeter. Conferences not only refine the fellowship and re-center focus on Jesus, but they also bring the body of Christ closer together in friendship.

I have never had the opportunity to participate in a denominational structure outside of ACOP, However in other structures I do hope there is a chance for connection with the other believers such as conferences, and a general agreement between the body and the leadership.

[Nate]

Conferences play such a vital role because it creates a space for connection to the wider fellowship. By not being a denomination we lose that sense of being one church and instead can fall into feeling like multiple, splintered churches. Conferences allow for us to meet as one wider, united church.