baptist
Baptist refers to a group of Protestant Christian churches and denominations that share core convictions about baptism and church governance. Central to Baptist practice is believer’s baptism by immersion and the autonomy of locally gathered congregations, with baptism typically reserved for professing believers.
Historically, Baptists trace their roots to the early 17th century in England, among Separatists who desired
Believer’s baptism by immersion is a defining practice, performed after an individual expresses faith in Jesus
Organization among Baptists is typically congregational, with local churches exercising autonomy in governance and decision making.
Prominent Baptist bodies include national and regional conventions and the global Baptist World Alliance, with substantial