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, bring 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, Commissioner Elizabeth Matear.
Public issues are monitored and, where appropriate representation is made to government and others.
Smaller member denominations are particularly supported in matters relating to legislation which affects their life and mission.
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
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