An introduction ...

Since the 1880s there have been bodies established to enable the 'Free Churches' to have a common voice and public presence. The Declaratory Statement of Faith and Practice from 1917 continues to serve as the basis for membership. In 1940 the Free Church Federal Council was created, bringing together a number of predecessor bodies.

The current Free Churches Group comprises twenty-two denominations, some of whom are also in membership with Churches Together in England.

A public presence is given through the Moderator, who also serves as one of the Presidents of Churches Together in England and links with a number of other key organisations.


The Free Church Federal Council Inc.

The legal body, established in 1940, which remains behind the work of the Group is the Free Church Federal Council Inc. (Registered Charity No. 236878 Registered Company No. 5354231). Denominational representatives to the Group Meeting are also members of the Company and elect a number of Directors. Historic investments are managed in order to finance the work of the Group. This is all done within the Joint Working Agreement with Churches Together in England.


Partnership with Churches Together in England

The Free Churches Group and Churches Together in England work within a Joint Operating Agreement, whereby financial and personnel resources are shared to a very large extent.
Though the two organisations have very different backgrounds in the current climate of inter-church relationships it is hard to see the join between the two. There are some denominations who belong to the FCG but not to CTE

The Work of the Free Churches Group

The Group Meeting

The meeting of representatives from each member denomination where the work is shaped and issues discussed.  (Members please login to access papers)

The Free Church Federal Council (Inc)

The legal Company and Charity with ultimate oversight of the finances and work.

Staff

Both the Directors and the Group Meeting are served by the Executive Secretary, Revd Mark Fisher and Executive Officers working in the areas of Education and Hospital and Prison Chaplaincy.

The Moderator

A four-year office, elected by the Group, who represents the Group at national public functions and events. The Moderator usually chairs Directors meetings and offers patronage to a number of organisations. 

Our Representation

Organisations with whom the Group is associated either through direct representation or through the patronage of the Moderator.

Links with local Free Church Councils

Historically the Group has associated closely with, and sought to support, local Free Church Councils. These have largely been amalgamated with local 'Churches Together' groups. However, we keep informal links with those that remain.

Some Free Church Women's Councils also remain, running practical projects.