Nazarene Church History

This is Our Story...

The Nazarene story began with many tributaries that merged into an international Wesleyan-Holiness denomination in 1908. The new denomination has been the subject of several studies, and the following links provide information on our early years.

For additional information on the Nazarene story, visit the Nazarene Archives.

The Deaconess in Nazarene History

The Nazarene deaconess has been a lay order functioning from the beginning of our history alongside the regular ministry ordained to "Word and Table."

Rise of the Church of the Nazarene

This chart identifies the different parent bodies and the dates when they merged into the present-day denomination. (Must have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader to view.)

Turning Points in Nazarene History

An outline of Nazarene development that is designed for pastors and Christian educators to use in 60 or 90 minute presentations to new church members or in similar contexts.

They Shared a Dream

By the late 19th century, the Wesleyan-Holiness Movement floundered at the edge of a sectarian snakepit, divided by race, region, and national boundaries. Yet from this doubtful setting, the Church of the Nazarene arose.

The Church of the Nazarene: A Church in the Wesleyan Tradition

This information, which was featured in the 2001 General Assembly issue of Holiness Today, provides a brief synopsis of our history, core beliefs, and missional commitments. This information would be especially helpful for a new members or Sunday School class.

Timothy Smith and the Recovery of the Nazarene Vision

No one tracked the footprints across the Nazarene landscape better than Timothy L. Smith. Historian, pastor, teacher, and preacher, Smith embodied one of John Wesley's noblest ideals--the union of "knowledge and vital piety."

Value of Denominational Heritage

An address by former general superintendent John A. Knight

Links:
http://www.nazarene.org