From ABCUSA to CPBC: A historical analysis of Baptist local church autonomy

Abstract

This paper investigates how the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC) can draw valuable lessons from the American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA) in applying the principle of local church autonomy. The concept of local autonomy was first introduced to the Philippines by American Baptist missionaries, profoundly shaping the development of Baptist ecclesiology in the country. Employing a historical research method, the study traces the evolution of local autonomy within the ABCUSA and examines its subsequent influence on the CPBC. The analysis reveals both strengths and challenges in implementing this principle across different cultural and organizational contexts. Key findings emphasize the importance of achieving a balanced approach to autonomy: one that preserves local church independence while fostering meaningful collaboration within the wider convention. To this end, the study recommends establishing clear operational guidelines, thoughtfully integrating Filipino cultural values such as bayanihan (community spirit) and the barangay system of communal thinking, and promoting inclusive, shared decision-making processes. The barangay tradition, rooted in precolonial community cooperation, encourages collective effort and mutual support, which can help bridge individual church autonomy with convention-wide unity by prioritizing shared goals and interconnected responsibility. Ultimately, the research concludes that true local autonomy for the CPBC does not equate to absolute independence or isolation. Instead, it involves empowering individual congregations to exercise responsible self-governance while nurturing interconnectedness, mutual support, and cooperative mission efforts across the convention. By adopting these insights from the ABCUSA experience and adapting them to the Philippine context, the CPBC can strengthen its organizational vitality and ecclesial unity.