What is Evangelical Free?
The term "Evangelical Free" refers to our denomination. The Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) was created in 1950 and consists today of about 1,500 churches.
Although politics has tarnished the term Evangelical, we embrace the term as a principle that defines us as believers of the good news of the gospel. In fact, the English word "evangelical" comes from the Greek word evangel, meaning "to announce the good news." At Wayside Chapel, we are Evangelicals who define ourselves theologically, yet recognize our diversity politically, socially, and culturally.
The term Free refers to our form of church government. Although we are part of a denomination, we are independent in direction and free from a central controlling denominational body. We depend upon God’s leading through His Word and the active participation of our pastors, board of elders and members in the decisions and direction of our church.
For more information, visit the EFCA website. Back to Visiting Wayside