Lawd, 'A Mercy! !
An Overview of Taney County Churches
Have you ever really tried to study the Taney County churches and their respective doctrinal ideas? If not, take a look at the local paper some weekend. There are nearly a hundred churches in the county who post their service announcements for anyone interested. Of course, that number does not include the churches in neighboring counties, and it does not take into account the newly formed splinter groups struggling to organize themselves, or the ones who do not submit listings to the paper. Heavens! It is enough to make you dizzy just trying to keep straight who's reformed, who's reorganized, who's restored, and who's repossessed . . . let alone what they were in the first place.
One thing is for certain, though: Taney Countians take their Christian religion seriously. Church membership and involvement has been important since the county's founding. A rugged, austere folk, early settlers valued the solace that their religious commitments offered; and they relied on church activities for spiritual guidance, social engagement, and community solidarity. Even those who eschewed organized religion frequently found community values influenced by area churches. Religion, then, has been an extremely important force in shaping the cultural identity of the people of Taney County.
In the early days of the county's founding, church functions offered one of the main excuses for social interaction. Isolated from each other, many settlers looked forward to the chance to get together with others. Attendance at Sunday services was strongly encouraged by the rest of the community. Many families would prepare diligently for that weekly outing, packaging a Sunday dinner and bringing along crafts or books they wanted to share with their neighbors. 
Not attending Sunday services stigmatized a family as more than morally lax; they were antisocial--a far greater infraction when frequently the community's survival depended upon people working together--to build houses, raise barns, put out fires, harvest crops, or whatever needed doing.
Whether or not they made it to Sunday worship though, nearly everyone in the county turned out for special revivals: Camp meetings and brush arbors, generally held in the fall after the harvest had been put by, rejuvenated the work-weary souls who flocked to the gatherings. A baptism in the river or creek was a joyous occasion; group baptisms brought even more elation--and more opportunity for camaraderie.
Be that as it may, it would not do to assume that everyone shared the same religious ideas or the same doctrinal positions. Independent-minded, Taney Countians have always valued their right (perhaps their duty) to formulate their own views on the articles of faith they endorsed. Certainly, as the county grew, new people with different religious ideas moved into the community. The early country churches expanded and new churches were organized; some early churches died out as people's ideas altered and the population shifted.
While denominations have changed, church involvement in the community still remains strong. Many area churches have community outreach and social programs; many offer special camps and recreational facilities for the entire family, especially young people; and many sponsor families or individuals in need of assistance.
Today, the 93 churches who post their listings in area publications represent assorted Christian denominations. Eighteen of that group classify themselves as either "non-denominational" or "other." Interestingly, there are no listings for non-Christian religions (which may or may not mean there are no other organized religions in the county). Narrowing the scope of organized churches to the Christian faith helps some in understanding overt community mores. And trying to understand the broad doctrinal ideas of major denominations helps as well.
Though the overview that follows is not complete and it does not take into account the particular perspective of each individual church, it does provide a glimpse at some of the major ideas and development of denominations represented in the county. We don't offer an exhaustive history, and we don't get into the fine hair-splitting points that might separate one church from another of the same denomination. Where no information is included, we simply didn't have enough information to share.
We'd like to know more about individual churches, though. If you would like to submit an objective account of a local church's history and community involvement, you are more than welcome to do so. (We can't publish arguments or persuasive pieces that would suggest we are endorsing any given church, but the historical background and central ideas would help the community understand one another.)
Apostolic
The Christ Church emphasizes the revival of the Pentecost, with doctrine based on the teachings of the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone of the Apostolic tradition (Mead 117).
Central tenets are Christ's resurrection and the premillenial second coming; the resurrection and translation of saints; the priesthood of all believers; and the final judgment of humanity. Baptism by immersion is seen as necessary for redemption (117).
Christ Apostolic Church, UPC2 m. S. of Branson, off Hwy. 65, Hollister, 335-5034 |
Assembly of God
Basing its ideas on Arminian theology, the Assembly of God joined the General Council in 1914. Closely related to Pentecostals and the Church of God, the Assembly grows out of the Holiness tradition. Membership relies upon the baptism by the Holy Spirit as made evident by speaking in tongues (Mead 238).
The church emphasizes these ideas: the infallibility and inspiration of the Bible; the fall and redemption of the entire race; baptism; a life of holiness and separation from the rest of the world; an eternal system of punishment and rewards; and the millenial rule of Christ after the second coming.
Important rites are baptism and the Lord's Supper. The church has origins in both Methodist and Baptist traditions. Governance is an unusual combinations of congregational and presbyterial organization (238).
Branson Hills Assembly of God256 Church RoadBranson, 334-7315 | Faith Assembly of GodHwy. 160 N.Forsyth, 546-5954 |
First Assembly of God600 W. MainBranson, 334-3803 | Ridgedale Assembly of GodOakmont Recreation Center335-5391 |
Baptist
By far the largest Protestant denomination in the county--indeed in the entire U.S.--is Baptist. There are over 100,000 local churches nationwide (Mead 49). Worldwide, there are an estimated 100 million Baptists and Baptist sympathizers (55). Taney County has at least 21 Baptist churches, and it is likely that a number of the non-denominational churches are highly influenced by Baptist ideas.
Central to Baptist thinking is emphasis on individual will and accountability. Individual churches are independent of others, just as members are independent of one another. As Mead states, the emphasis in the church is on "competence of the individual in matters of faith" (49).
Many Baptists link their origins to John the Baptist; however, the first organized churches appeared in England and Holland during the seventeenth century. Central ideas are that church membership is extended to self-proclaimed believers, but only those regenerates are eligible for participation in the church. The conversion experience, then, is extremely important, moving away from beliefs of predestination and limited atonement (49). Two important rituals are baptism (generally through immersion) and the Lord's Supper.
One early founder, John Smyth is credited with organizing the first English Baptist church in 1609, which professed a general atonement extended to all, hence the name General Baptist. Shortly thereafter, the Particular Baptist arose, professing limited atonement more closely aligned with Calvin's teaching. A third branch, Immersion Baptists established their church in 1644 (50). In the colonies, Roger Williams and John Clarke were early founders of Baptist churches.
Out of the confessions of John Smyth comes an idea central to U.S. separation of church and state: ". . .the magistrate. . . is not to meddle with religion, or matters of conscience" (qt. in Mead 50). Believing in high personal standards, most Baptists object to the idea of authority figures standing between the individual and God and adopt a congregational organizational structure. Not surprisingly, this emphasis on the individual has resulted in confidence in scriptural interpretation and the mushrooming of various Baptist sects which espouse, in varying degrees, a belief in free grace and free will.
First BaptistHwy 165, N of Rockaway Beach561-4561 | Friendship Free Will BaptistEast Hwy. 76, Branson334-2303 |
First BaptistPresbyterian & Lake StreetsHollister, 334-6970 | Hillcrest IndependentHwy BB, Forsyth334-0533 |
First Baptist400 S. Sunshine Branson, 334-7437 | Riverview Bible BaptistN. Hwy. 160, Forsyth546-4580 |
First Baptist205 Coy Blvd. Forsyth, 546-4452 | Open Door BaptistHilda & Cedar Creek, Hwy. M Forsyth, 794-3434 |
First SouthernHwy. J, N. of Hwy.86 Hollister | Bee Creek Baptist1788 Bee Creek RoadBranson, 336-2482 |
Rocky Lodge Southern Baptist MissionProtem | Cross Roads Church65-90 N. of Branson334-1578 |
General Baptist5th & College, Branson334-7124 | Calvary Baptist Church1805 Miller Dr.Branson, 335-6132 |
New Vision General BaptistHwy. 76, 5 miles east of Forsyth | Hillside Baptist ChapelFireside Room, Branson Inn338-5212 |
St. James General BaptistHwy. 76, Kirbyville | Skyline BaptistOff 65, near Table Rock Dam334-6729 |
Sardis General BaptistW. Hwy. 76S. of Forsyth546-4958 | Talking Rocks RoadFundamental Baptist ChurchTalking Rocks Rd, Off Hwy. 13 |
Victor Baptist4 m. N on Hwy 651 m. down Victor Church Rd. |
Bible Church Branson Bible Church-L.F.C.A.N. Bus. 65Branson, 334-3678 | Fellowship Bible Churchcorner T. Hwy. & E. 76335-8008 |
Catholic
The most influential church in the Western World over the past 1,600 years, the Catholic Church traces its origin to the appointing of Peter as "guardian of the keys of heaven and earth and chief of the apostles" (Mead 267). Church organization is hierarchical, with the Pope considered the highest earthly authority on spiritual matters. Descending from the Pope are the College of Cardinals, archbishops, bishops, priests, and deacons.
Tradition and ritual are extremely important. Mass is the central worship ceremony, involving the liturgy of the word and the liturgy of the Eucharist. Special rites include the seven sacraments: baptism for infants or adults by pouring or immersion; anointing with the holy chrism after baptism; confirmation or laying on of hands; the Eucharist; marriage; the anointing of the sick (unction); and the taking of holy orders (270). Special emphasis is placed on the veneration of the Mary, and saints are recognized as important spiritual sponsors.
The Catholic Church accepts the Apostle's Creed, the Nicene-Constantinople Creed, the Athanasian Creed, and the Creed of Pius IV (Creedal Statement of the Council of Trent). Ethical and moral standards are traditionally strict: the sanctity of human life is honored; divorce and remarriage are not accepted; celibacy is important for clergy. Most churches now conduct mass in the vernacular, though some still use Latin as the official language of the church ("Major Christian Denominations" 661).
Our Lady of the Lake Vaughn Drive, Branson334-3350 | Our Lady of the Ozarks Forsyth546-5208 |
Christian
The Christian Church is frequently referred to as the most American church there is. The church got its start on the frontier in the 1800s. A central idea of early founders was the idea that "Christians should unite on the basis of faith in Christ and divisive denominational practices abolished" (Mead 95). Other important ideas are the rejection of the notion of original sin, while acknowledging humans are of a sinful nature which is cleansed through redemption; the rejection of speculation about the nature of the trinity; and the endorsement of the belief that faith relies on individual conviction. In many Christian churches, there is no set worship pattern and most have no set catechism (96-97).
Early founders of the Christian Church were Barton Stone, Thomas and Alexander Campbell, and Walter Scott. Though all had Presbyterian backgrounds, Stone and the Campbells placed greater emphasis on the conversion experience. Scott, on the other hand, was skeptical of emotional appeals; he believed faith to be arrived at intellectually rather than through revivalism (96).
The church organization is congregational. Important rituals are adult baptism and the Lord's Supper. Emphasis is placed on the New Testament as the only saving doctrine. Closely related to the Church of Christ, many Christian Churches reject creeds and doctrine; many eschew instrumental music and most reject ritualized worship services.
Branson Christian Church(Disciples of Christ)213 S. Commercial, 334-3453 | Ozark Mt. Christian Church(Disciples of Christ)F. Hwy. & 160Rockaway Beach, 561-4675 |
Mt. Branson ChristianE. Hwy. 76Branson, 334-0449 | Tri-Lakes Christian116 PathwayBranson, 337-7770 |
Restored Branch of the Church of Christ334-6088 |
Christian Science
Church of Christ, Scientist, was founded by Mary Baker Eddy in the late 1800s. The two central texts for the group are the Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. Eddy's founding ideas center on the notion of "divine Mind; infinite Love," stating that "the Principle of all harmonious Mind-action [is] God" (Mead 104). In other words, emphasis is placed on the power of the mind over matter--divine healing through mental and spiritual concentration.
A specific tenet of the Christian Scientists are that God is All-in-All: "all-knowing, all-seeing, all-acting, all-wise, all-loving, and eternal; Principle; Mind; Soul; Spirit; Life; Truth; Love; all substance; intelligence" (104-5). Christ is recognized as the Son of God; the Holy Ghost is channeled through Christ; and man is created in God's image. Heaven is perceived as not a specific place, but a state of harmony (106). Hell, likewise, is not a geographic locale; it is sin, error, hatred, pride, contempt, and so forth.
Christian Scientists are organized as readers, teachers, and practitioners.
Branson-Hollister Christian Science Reading Room17 Downing St., Hollister |
Church of Christ
The Church of Christ, like most broad denominations, has several different branches that differ in their thinking about organization and governance. The Churches of Christ (Disciples) are closely related to the Christian Church, tracing their origins to the early 1800s ("Major Christian Denominations" 660-61). The United Church of Christ was formed in 1957, pulling together Congregationalists and Evangelical and Reformed groups.
Both groups emphasize scripture as the source of religious authority. The earlier church is stricter in its dismissal of rites not considered part of the first century church, including instrumental music as part of the worship service. Adult baptism and weekly partaking of the Lord's Supper are the special rites of the Church of Christ (Disciples). Infant baptism and the Lord's Supper are the rites of the United Church of Christ. The Disciples have a greater emphasis on perfectionism, while the United Church has a more tolerant system of ethics (661). Both pursue some social action programs, and both support scholarly education.
Central ideas for the Church of Christ are the belief in one Godhead comprised of the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost; the incarnation, birth, and resurrection of Christ; the universality of sin and atonement through Christ. The Bible is considered the sole authority (660). In fact, the frequently quoted position for the church dismisses interpretive speculation entirely: "Where the Scriptures speak, we speak; where the Scriptures are silent, we are silent" (660). Church organization is generally congregational.
Church of Christ307 7th. St.Branson, 334-3866 | W. Hwy 76 Church of Christ3695 W. 76 Blvd., Hampton InnBranson, 239-1350 |
Forsyth Church of Christ137 Spring St.Forsyth, 546-5135 |
Church of God
There are over 200 different groups that fit into the broad category of Church of God. This conservative denomination bases its church on the Apostle Paul's reference to the Church of God, though as an organized denomination the Church of God grew out of the Holiness revival of the southern Appalachians (Mead 109).
The New Testament is considered the standard of faith and the model for living. The church emphasizes unity of all Christians, though different groups pursue this notion with varying enthusiasm. Most subscribe to Holiness teachings, with varying emphasis placed on the conversion Experience (most do not include the Pentecostal speaking in tongues as part of the Experience).
Church of the Apostolic Faith1000 W. Main, Branson | Maranatha Church of GodHwy. 13 Branson West, 272-8278 |
Hilltop Church of GodHwy. 76Kirbyville |
Episcopal
Though the Episcopal tradition predates the reign of Henry VIII, we generally consider the official formation of the Church of England in 1534 to be the origin of the organized Episcopal Church. The Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States was founded in 1789 ("Major Christian Denominations" 660).
The church considers the Scripture as interpreted by tradition to be authoritative, especially the 39 Articles of 1563, though these articles are not considered a creed to be strictly adhered to. Services center on The Book of Common Prayer, updated in 1979, and doctrine is shaped by these influences as well as the historic Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds. The Episcopal Church governance relies upon a federal union, with diocesan bishops elected by parish representatives (660).
Services range from simple ritual to high liturgical practices. Sacraments recognized by the church as "certain sure witness and effectual agencies of God's love and grace" are infant baptism and the Eucharist (Mead 134). Also important are confirmation, penance, matrimony, unction, and holy orders.
The Episcopal Church was one of the first churches to acknowledge the contributions of women in the spiritual leadership of the church: the ordination of women was recongnized in 1976, and Barbara C. Harris became the first woman bishop in 1989. The church sponsors some missionary, educational and social programs (132).
Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church107 Walnut & W. Highland, Branson, 334-3968 |
Evangelical Catholic
St. Athanasias Evangelical Catholic Chapel132 Pierce Place, Forsyth, 546-3897 |
Evangelical Free
The Evangelical Free Church got its start in 1884 when several independent congretgations met with the Old Swedish Ansgarii Synod and the Mission Synod in Boone, IA (Mead 140).
At first, the denomination consisted of a body of self-governing congregations. In 1950, a twelve point doctrinal statement was adopted.
Harvest Evangelical Free Church of America1460 Bee Creek Rd., Branson, 339-4038 |
Foursquare
Founded on the work of Aimee Semple McPherson, the Foursquare Gospel Church endorses McPherson's 21-paragraph Declaration of Faith. Commitment to the Declaration is required of members (Mead 141). Likewise, baptism of the holy spirit and speaking in tongues is believed to follow conversion.
The Foursquare Church is a Holiness church which emphasizes these ideas: premillenial teachings, trinitarianism, and the Bible as "true, immutable, steadfast, unchangeable, as its author, the Lord Jehovah" (141). Baptism and the Lord's Supper are observed rites. Business of the church is carried out by a board or directors, missionary cabinet, and executive council. The convention body is considered the highest seat of authority (141).
A church flag is flown at local churches: the flag consists of four colored squares of red, gold, blue, and purple, with a red cross on a Bible in the center. The number 4 is superimposed on the flag.
Branson Foursquare Church2287 Fall Creek Road, Branson, 339-5911 |
(Full) Gospel
A Holiness church, the Gospel Church places central importance on the Pentecostal Experience and the literal presence of the Holy Spirit in human affairs. See the section under Pentecostal for fuller discussion.
Community ChurchJct. VV & 76Kirbyville, 334-1263 | Rock of the Ozarks8465 St. Hwy. 248Branson, 335-4233 |
Grace Point Living WatersHwy. 76 & B. 65Branson, 335-4867 | Abiding in the Vine Worship Center (Ind. Full Gospel)E. Hwy. 76 Branson, 336-4890 |
Oak Ridge Full GospelJct. 176 & 65, 10 m. N 587-3504 | Mincy Full Gospel3 m. down J Hwy.Mincy |
Jehovah's Witnesses
The Jehovah Witnesses were incorporated in 1884 by Charles Taze Russell. The original incorporation was as Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society of Pennsylvania, with the name Jehovah's Witnesses being adopted in 1931 ("Major Christian Denominations" 660). Russell is considered by the group to be a general organizer, not a founder (Mead 154).
These congregations (never called churches) meet in Kingdom Halls and members' homes. The group places emphasis on door-to-door visitations as part of the call to ministry. The Bible is recognized as the sole authority on spiritual matters. Baptism is by immersion and the Lord's Meal Ceremony is held annually ("Major Christian Denominations 660). The group endorses a high moral code, stressing marital faithfulness and family life.
Local congregations are directed by a group of elders, who are in turn directed by an international governing body in New York. Each Witness is considered to be a minister (660).
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's WitnessesHwy. 76-70 Bee Creek & Reinhardt Rd., Branson, 334-5507 |
Latter-Day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints share a common founding, but they differ signficantly on certain points of doctrine. Founded by Joseph Smith and six charter members in 1830, the Latter-Day Saints, or Mormons, rely on The Book of Mormon and the Bible as the basis of their faith. Two other books by Smith are also important: Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price (Mead 165).
The splintering of the Mormon church into smaller sects came after Joseph and Hyrum Smith, the prophet's brother, were murdered by a mob of Mormon despisers in Carthage, IL, in 1844. The majority of the Saints accepted the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles as the church's head and selected Brigham Young as the new president. This group formed the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was led by Young into Utah to found what has become the worldwide Mormon headquarters. Other Saints rejected Young's authority and broke away to found their own churches. One of these advocated Joseph Smith's son as the direct descendent in line for the presidency. This group formed the Reorganized Church, establishing its headquarters in Independence, MO (166).
Theological ideas important to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints include the conception of a three-person Godhead, with the Father and Son having bodies of flesh and bone and the Holy Ghost being spirit; the rejection of original sin, but emphasis on individual accountability; atonement extended to all humanity through belief in Christ, repentance, baptism by immersion, laying on of hands, and partaking of the Lord's Supper each Sunday (167). Emphasis is placed on the gift of tongues, prophecy, visions, healing, and revelation. Guidelines established by the living president are followed (167). Two practices unique to the church are baptism of the dead and marrying for eternity. A dual concept of marriage--temporal and celestial--was at one time justification for polygamy (sanctioned in 1852); however, this practice has been officially discontinued.
The Reorganized Church disagrees with some of these doctrinal positions. It endorses different ideas concerning the composition of the Godhead, celestial marriage, and the baptism of the dead (173). Emphasis is also placed on the doctrine of stewardship and individual accountability.
Organizational structure and administration are similar in both churches, and both consider family and the Church community to be extremely important.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day SaintsHwy. 65, 2 m. N of BransonChurch Rd. | Reorganized Church of JesusChrist of Latter Day Saints1103 W. MainBranson, 334-1517 |
Lutheran Lutheranism is the earliest Protestant sect, originating in the teachings of Martin Luther from 1513 to 1530. Luther himself never proposed a break from the church; instead he emphasized a refocusing on the Bible as the sole authority for Christian faith and a purification of abuse of power within the church (Mead 174). Nevertheless, the break was effected in 1519. Historically, the Lutheran Church was strongest in Germany and the Scandinavian countries, though early colonists brought the faith to the New World as early as 1623.
The central doctrinal idea for Lutherans is salvation through grace and faith alone. The Book of Concord, compiled in 1580, contains the three Ecumenical Creeds regarded as correct explanation of the Bible ("Major Christian Denominations 660). Important sacraments are infant baptism and the Lord's Supper, which is regarded as partaking of Christ's true body "in, with, and under the bread and wine" (660).
Worship within the church is liturgical. The various congregations of the Lutheran Church are governed by their respective Synods, comprised of both pastors and lay representatives. Synods belong to a general body that oversees the work of the church in education, social programs, and mission work (Mead 177).
Faith LutheranMissouri SynodParnell & Malone Sts.Branson, 334-2469 | Peace Lutheran Church(E.L.C.A.)Hwy. 65 at Hwy. 165Hollister, 334-1499 |
Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church (LCMS)13904 Hwy. 160Forsyth, 546-2246 | Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran ChurchHwy. 13, 739-2512 |
Methodist
The Methodist movement grew out of the Church of England and was expanded by the teachings of John and Charles Wesley in the mid-1700s (Mead 194). A lay movement, Methodism infused the direct action of the Holy Spirit into the formal liturgy of the church. Historically, emphasis in the Methodist Church has been on ministry of human compassion (194).
The first self-sustaining Methodist society was established in the Foundry in London in 1740 by John Wesley. In the colonies, Francis Asbury and Thomas Coke were the first superintendents of the Methodist Episcopal Church, organized in 1784. Over the years, political differences have split Methodism in the United States into separate churches; however, little difference exists in their doctrinal positions (198). The 25 Articles of the church are abridgements of the Church of England's 39-Articles.
Important rites include baptism of infants or adults; the Lord's Supper; marriage; ordination, and personal commitments ("Major Christian Denominations 660). Worship style varies according to denomination and geography. Church organization involves a conference and superintendent system.
United Methodist1208 W. Hwy. 76Branson, 334-3423 | Forsyth United MethodistForsyth, 546-5985 |
Nazarene
Frequently referred to as "the right wing of the Holiness Movement," the Nazarene church grew out of the teachings of John Wesley in the late 18th century with foundations in the holiness doctrines (Mead 117-18).
The theology of the church is Methodist: justification by faith is followed by sanctification. A second work of grace is believed to follow the initial conversion experience. Two important rites are baptism by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion and communion (118).
While some branches of the Nazarene place greater emphasis on their Holiness origins, other branches are considered to be moderate--endorsing neither extreme ritual of the high churches nor the informality of some grassroots churches.
Nazarene Church of Branson3rd & HensleyBranson, 334-4308 | Trinity Church of the Nazarene.5 m. S of 76 & 160 Jct.Forsyth, 546-3609 |
Pentecostal
The Pentecostal Church began as a movement around 1900, drawing its name from the first Pentecost, the 50 days following Christ's resurrection. Originally, followers objected to the loss of enthusiasm among Methodists and Baptist churches ("Major Christian Denominations" 660). The movement originated with uneducated, rural peoples, though today it has gained wider appeal among middle-class congregations (661).
Conservative Protestants, members pursue spiritual perfectionism, regarding the Pentecostal Experience of speaking in tongues as a sign of baptism of the Holy Spirit; and healing, love, joy, answers to prayers are manifestations of God's working in individual lives (Mead 237). Beliefs in the trinity, original sin, salvation through Christ's death, the virgin birth, and the divine inspiration and literal interpretation of the Scripture are characteristic of Pentecostals.
Sacraments include baptism and the Lord's Supper. Foot washing, divine healing, and exorcism are sometimes observed as special rites. The church regards Scripture and individual charismatic leaders as authoritative. Services are loosely structured with inspiring hymns and sermons, confessions, and spirit baptisms. The direct presence of the Holy Spirit is central to Pentecostal thought.
Old Branson PentecostalJct. 165 & 76 on Gretna Rd.Branson, 334-0920 | Cedar Valley PentecostalCedar Valley Rd.Hollister, |
Truth TabernacleJ & M PlazaForsyth, 561-8220 | New Life TempleOff Hwy. 65 on VHollister, 334-7231 |
Bowman Pentecostal6 m. W. on Hwy. 86Hollister |
Presbyterian
The Presbyterian Church has its origin in the theology of John Calvin, preaching in France and Switzerland in the mid-1500s. Particularly strong among those of middle-class Scottish and Scottish-Irish descent, Presbyterian influx into the colonies was largest from 1710 to 1750 (Mead 248).
The Presbyterian Church emphasizes God's sovereignity. Drawing from Calvin's ideas and the teaching of John Knox, the church at one time emphasized these ideas: human impotence, unconditional predestination, limited atonement, confession of irresistible grace, and final perseverance of the elect. Since that time, the Presbyterian Church has relaxed its position of predestination. Services make use of a directory for public worship. A Longer and Shorter Catechism also contains central ideas of the faith (248).
Highly structured, the organization of the church includes representative presbyters in local, regional, and national synods. Special rites are infant baptism and the Lord's Supper, with the bread and wine regarded as symbolic of Christ's presence (not the literal body of Christ).
The Presbyterian Church has been described as "more cerebral and verbal than emotional and aesthetic" (247). Indeed, the church values higher education and learning, and it is responsible for establishing many educational institutions. Emphasis is placed on individual responsibility and strict (traditionally) self-discipline. Church services are usually sober, with the sermon playing the central role ("Major Christian Denominations" 661).
First Presbyterian420 W. MainBranson, 334-3468 | PresbyterianSecond & Oak St.Hollister, |
Community PresbyterianMain St.Forsyth, 546-2584 | Williams Memorial ChapelCollege of the OzarksPt. Lookout, 334-6411 |
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army traces its origin to the ministry of William Booth, who in 1865 committed his services to the impoverished masses of London's East End (Mead 275). Initially, Booth's ministry was called the Mile End Waste; the name was changed to the Salvation Army in 1878 when Booth and his followers drew up their declaration of faith, called the Articles of War (274). The Salvation Army was brought to the United States in 1880 by George Scott Railton.
The Salvation Army pursues a variety of religious and social programs in its attempts to "[put] the needy in a position to be uplifted" (277). The cardinal affirmations of the Foundation Deed of 1878 included these ideas: the Bible is seen as the only rule for Christian faith; God is the creator of all things; Jesus is the Son of God and the Son of man; sin destroys the human soul and society; salvation is available through Christ; and the individual life is to be set apart for the kingdom of God.
The Salvation Army is organized according to a military system: evangelists receive various officer rankings, depending upon their service; members are referred to as soldiers; and new converts are called seekers (275). Officers undergo a two-year basic training at one of four schools in the United States before earning their rank. Mission stations are referred to as corps, rather than churches (276).
Salvation Army, 1819 Hwy. 76, Branson |
Spirit-Filled
Hands of the Master Christian CenterCorner of Pacific & Hwy. 65, Branson, 336-0259 |
Unity: Christ Church of the Hills2 m. E. of Taneycomo Bridge, Branson, 334-6224 |
Agape Family Life Church542 N. B. 65Branson, 332-0006 | Grand Old Gospel HourBraschler TheaterShep. Hills ExpresswayBranson, 337-8888 |
Branson Christian Fellowship2193 St. Hwy. FBranson, 561-2000 | Indian Point Community Worship Center1.5 m. S. of SDCIndian Point Rd, 335-4211 |
Branson West ChurchHwy. 13, .75 m. N of 13 & 76Branson West, 272-8753 | Lakeside AssemblyHwy. J, 1 m. N of Hwy. 86Hollister |
Calvary Chapel of Branson208 E. College, St. 16Branson, 336-1297 | Morgan Community ChurchShep. of the Hills Farm334-4191 |
Calvary Full Gospel Church1281 Sundown Ln.Forsyth, 561-2270 | Ozark Mnt. Community ChurchOakmont Rec. Center334-4483 |
The Church at Branson670 N. B. 65, Galyean Ctr.Branson, 336-8795 | Stepping Stone ChurchCounty Rd. 160-20272-8698 |
Church on the Rock-BransonSettle Inn, 3050 Green Mnt.Branson, 888-601-1881 | Sycamore Log Church2402 Sycamore Church Rd.Branson, 334-3890 |
Grace Family Church328 Hwy. BBHollister, 336-6527 | Victory Mountain Ministries590 W. PacificBranson, 336-3606 |
Good Shepherd Church of the OzarksHwy. 65 & 165Hollister, 335-8727 | Williams Memorial ChapelCollege of the OzarksPt. Lookout, 334-6411 |
Works Cited
Mead, Frank S. Handbook of Denominations in the United States. 10th ed. Rev. by Samuel S. Hill. Nashville, TN: Abingdon P, 1995.
"Major Christian Denominations." World Almanac and Book of Facts, 1998. Mahwah, NJ: World Almanac Books, 1997, pp. 660-61.
Photographs of congregation and baptism, Godsey Collection, Lyons Memorial Library, College of the Ozarks.
Photographs of county churches taken by Alisa Fulkerson and Patsy Watts.
