The New Apostolic Church is established in Hamburg, Germany.

The New Apostolic Church (NAC) is a distinct Christian denomination with a rich history, tracing its origins back to a significant ecclesiastical schism in the 19th century. Established in Hamburg, Germany, in 1863, the NAC emerged from a separation within the Catholic Apostolic Church, marking its formal beginning as an independent religious body.

Historical Context and the 1863 Schism

The genesis of the New Apostolic Church is rooted in the broader Irvingian movement, which began in the 1830s. This movement, named in part after the Scottish Presbyterian minister Edward Irving, sought a spiritual renewal within established Protestant churches, particularly the Anglican Church and the Church of Scotland. Adherents of the Irvingian movement, later formalized as the Catholic Apostolic Church, believed in the imminent Second Coming of Christ and the re-establishment of lost spiritual gifts and ministries, including that of apostles and prophets, as seen in the Early Christian Church.

The decisive schism leading to the formation of the New Apostolic Church occurred in Hamburg, Germany, in 1863. This separation stemmed primarily from disagreements over the perceived re-occupation of the apostolate. Following the deaths of some of the original apostles appointed within the Catholic Apostolic Church, a faction believed it was necessary to appoint new apostles to ensure the continued divine guidance of the church. When this re-ordination was not universally accepted by the existing leadership of the Catholic Apostolic Church, those who proceeded with new appointments, notably under the leadership of individuals like Heinrich Geyer, effectively formed a new distinct community. This pivotal event in Hamburg marked the official birth of what would become the New Apostolic Church.

While the New Apostolic Church formally began in Germany in 1863, its presence expanded significantly over time, reaching the Netherlands by 1897 and subsequently establishing a global footprint, making it a worldwide Christian faith community today.

Core Doctrines and Beliefs

Central to the doctrines of the New Apostolic Church is the profound emphasis on the Second Coming of Christ. This eschatological expectation is not merely a belief but a foundational aspect that shapes its worship, teachings, and the very purpose of its existence. Members are taught to prepare themselves and the world for this momentous event, believing that the present-day apostles are preparing the 'Bride of Christ' for His return.

While distinctive in its structure and certain interpretations, the New Apostolic Church shares many fundamental theological tenets with mainstream Christianity. These include:

The church recognizes three core sacraments: Holy Baptism with water, Holy Sealing (a sacrament performed by an apostle, administering the Holy Spirit and establishing sonship in God), and Holy Communion (celebrated in every divine service, usually with a consecrated wafer and a drop of wine, symbolizing the body and blood of Jesus Christ).

Distinctive Characteristics: Hierarchy, Liturgy, and Identity

The New Apostolic Church maintains a unique position within the Christian landscape, often described as being neither strictly Protestant nor Roman Catholic, despite possessing elements comparable to both. Its liturgical practices bear a resemblance to Protestantism, characterized by simplicity and a strong focus on the sermon. Services typically include hymns, prayers, readings from the Bible, the sermon by a minister, and the celebration of Holy Communion. There are no elaborate rituals or veneration of saints, distinguishing it significantly from Catholic practices.

Conversely, its organizational structure and ecclesiastical hierarchy share parallels with the Roman Catholic Church. The NAC is centrally led by the Chief Apostle, who is considered the highest spiritual authority and the successor to Peter in a spiritual sense. Below the Chief Apostle are District Apostles, then Apostles, followed by a range of ministerial offices including Bishops, District Elders, Shepherds, Evangelists, Priests, Deacons, and Sub-deacons. This highly structured and hierarchical system underscores a centralized governance and a strong emphasis on the apostolic ministry.

The church fundamentally perceives itself as the re-established continuation of the Early Christian Church, emphasizing the direct succession of its leaders from the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. This theological perspective positions the contemporary apostles as vital links to the original apostolic mandate. This doctrine exhibits aspects of Restorationism, a broader theological concept found in various Christian movements that aim to restore Christianity to what adherents believe is its original form and practice, as found in the New Testament.

Global Presence and Official Abbreviations

From its origins in Germany, the New Apostolic Church has grown into a global denomination with millions of members worldwide, spanning numerous countries across all continents. This expansion reflects its missionary efforts and the spread of its teachings beyond its initial European base.

To ensure clarity and consistency across its international presence, the church uses specific abbreviations in different language regions:

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Apostolic Church

What is the New Apostolic Church (NAC)?
The New Apostolic Church is a Christian denomination that originated from a schism within the Catholic Apostolic Church in Hamburg, Germany, in 1863. It emphasizes the re-establishment of the apostolic ministry and the imminent Second Coming of Christ.
When and where did the New Apostolic Church originate?
The New Apostolic Church originated in 1863 during a schism in Hamburg, Germany, separating from the Catholic Apostolic Church. Its roots trace back to the broader Irvingian movement of the 1830s.
Is the New Apostolic Church Protestant or Catholic?
The New Apostolic Church is neither strictly Protestant nor Roman Catholic. While its liturgy shares similarities with Protestantism and its hierarchy with Roman Catholicism, it maintains a distinct identity as a central church in the Irvingian tradition, emphasizing its unique understanding of the re-established apostolic ministry.
What are the main doctrines of the NAC?
The core doctrine of the NAC is the belief in the imminent Second Coming of Christ and the preparation of believers for this event through the active ministry of present-day apostles. It also adheres to mainstream Christian beliefs such as the Holy Trinity and the divinity of Jesus Christ, and practices three sacraments: Holy Baptism, Holy Sealing, and Holy Communion.
What is the significance of "apostles" in the New Apostolic Church?
The New Apostolic Church believes its leaders are direct successors to the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, symbolizing a re-established continuation of the Early Christian Church. The apostles are central to their faith, serving to administer sacraments, provide spiritual guidance, and prepare the congregation for Christ's return.