Australian Christian Churches

Australian Christian Churches (ACC) is a Pentecostal movement and network of churches in Australia. Formerly known as the Assemblies of God in Australia, it is the largest Pentecostal denomination in the country, with over 1,100 churches and more than 385,000 constituents. The ACC is part of the worldwide World Assemblies of God Fellowship, the largest Pentecostal group globally.

History

The ACC originated in 1937 through the merger of Assemblies of God Queensland and the Pentecostal Church of Australia, forming the Assemblies of God in Australia. This merger marked the formal organization of Pentecostal churches in Australia under one national body. In 2007, the movement adopted the public name Australian Christian Churches while remaining legally registered under its original name until 2013. Throughout its history, the ACC has experienced consistent growth and has played a significant role in the development of Pentecostalism in Australia. Notably, Hillsong Church, once the largest church within ACC, separated from the movement in 2018.

Organization and Beliefs

Australian Christian Churches is a voluntary cooperative movement of self-governing Pentecostal churches. Each individual church operates autonomously but commits to mutual support and cooperative efforts aimed at spreading the Christian gospel throughout Australia and internationally.

The ACC adheres to Finished Work Pentecostalism theology, emphasizing the experience of the Holy Spirit and a commitment to evangelism and lively worship. Its doctrinal basis comprises 20 articles outlining central beliefs, reflecting evangelical and Bible-centered principles.

Worship and Community

Churches within the ACC are known for vibrant and contemporary worship services characterized by lively praise, worship music, and a focus on personal relationships with Jesus Christ. The movement fosters caring communities focused on spiritual growth and connection.

Global Connections

As part of the World Assemblies of God Fellowship, the ACC maintains international links with Pentecostal churches worldwide, contributing to missionary and evangelistic efforts beyond Australia.

Australian Christian Churches remains a significant force in Australian Christianity, noted for its evangelical zeal, Pentecostal distinctiveness, and broad national presence since its founding in 1937.

[1] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/b4052078-39af-e811-a961-000d3ad24182/profile [2] https://www.acc.org.au [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_Christian_Churches [4] https://www.ncca.org.au [5] https://www.acc.org.au/about