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About The New Church |
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Emanuel Swedenborg's Contribution: Emanuel was born in 1688 in Sweden. His father, Jesper Swedberg, was a Lutheran bishop whose responsibilities included the Swedish churches in Pennsylvania and in London. Jesper took interest in the beliefs of the dissenting Lutheran Pietest movement, which placed more emphasis on the virtues of love and communion with God than on faith alone. These beliefs were to have a major impact on his son. Emanuel took his studies at the University of Uppsala, then traveled to work with leading scientists throughout Europe. He gained favor with Sweden's King Carl XII, and was ennobled by Queen Ulrika Eleonora, leading to a seat in the Swedish House of Nobles. A member of the Swedish Royal Academy of Sciences, he devoted himself to scientific and philosophical studies that brought him recognition across Europe. In the mid-1730s, he redirected his studies to the anatomy in search of the connection between the soul and the body, making several significant discoveries. In the early 1740s he shifted his main focus from science and philosophy to theology. He began studying Scripture and publishing theological works that draw on the Bible, reasoning, and his own spiritual experiences. This Christian theology offers unique perspectives on the nature of God, the afterlife, the Bible, marriage, and the path to salvation. Although his intention was not to be the founder of a denomination, the inspired writings of Emanuel Swedenborg form the basis for the 'New Church' views of Christianity. A devout Christian, Swedenborg respected people of all faiths who sincerely seek to understand God, then do what they believe He asks of them. |
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Historical Perspective on the New Church : The New Church is a worldwide Christian faith established in 1757. The birth of the New Church came at the end of a 250-year period known for many significant developments in Christian Church history, most notably the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther founded the Lutheran Church in 1517, John Knox founded the Presbyterian Church in 1560, John Smyth separated from the Church of England to form a Baptist group in 1606, and John & Charles Welsey started a religious study group in 1744 which became known as the Methodists. The New Church is not considered part of the Protestant movement, but it builds on the contributions of its Christian predecessors. The Doctrines of the New Church (as Swedenborg referred to them) introduced new and clearer ways of understanding the Word of God. The New Church stresses the marriage of 'good works' and 'saving faith.' Its systematic theology demystifies the Bible and makes it more accessible for use in daily life. The teachings also reveal a deeper meaning to the Old and New Testament offering a comforting hope for life that helps us to find a true sense of purpose. The General Church: The Oak Arbor congregation is affiliated with the 'General Church,' a New Church denomination whose international headquarters are in Bryn Athyn, a suburb of Philadelphia, PA. In a picturesque setting in the heart of Bryn Athyn you can see this majestic cathedral (shown above) which serves as the religious center of the General Church. Click here to visit the Bryn Athyn Cathedral website >
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