horPa

HorPa is a collective name for several types of Baptist churches that originated in the 18th century. The name is derived from the Greek words "hora" meaning "hour" and "pa" meaning "child," but some sources attribute it to the Latin "hora" and "patria," or "homeland" and "fatherland."

The HorPa churches are characterized by their emphasis on personal experience and individual salvation. They developed from the Anabaptist and Mennonite traditions and were influenced by the Holiness and Pentecostal movements of the 19th century. The HorPans are known for their distinctive style of worship, which often features ecstatic singing, speaking in tongues, and bodily gestures, such as dancing or playing musical instruments.

The origins of the HorPa movement are unclear, but it is believed to have begun in Europe during the 18th century. One of the key figures associated with the movement is Thomas Campbell, a Scottish minister who emphasized the importance of personal experience and baptism by immersion. The HorPans have a strong following in various parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.

Throughout their history, the HorPa churches have faced opposition and persecution from mainstream Christian communities due to their unconventional practices. Despite these challenges, the movement has survived and adapted, incorporating elements from various Christian traditions into their theology and worship. The HorPans continue to attract adherents seeking a more experiential and expressive form of Christianity.