Church of God in Christ

Definition

The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) is a large denomination within the Holiness-Pentecostal tradition, founded in 1907 by Bishop Charles Harrison Mason. It is characterized by its vibrant worship style, emphasis on spiritual gifts, and a commitment to evangelism and social justice. The COGIC has played a significant role in the development of gospel music and spirituals, influencing the sound and practices within African American worship communities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. COGIC was officially established in 1907 during a time when African American Christians sought to create their own spaces for worship and leadership.
2. Bishop Charles Harrison Mason, the founder, emphasized the importance of sanctification and empowerment through the Holy Spirit, which are central tenets of COGIC belief.
3. The denomination has a strong focus on music and worship, contributing significantly to the development of gospel music with its energetic and expressive style.
4. COGIC holds annual conventions where music plays a central role, showcasing choirs and gospel artists who perform spirituals that inspire both worship and community engagement.
5. The Church of God in Christ emphasizes social justice initiatives, advocating for civil rights and community improvement efforts, deeply intertwining faith with action.

Review Questions

• How does the Church of God in Christ's belief system influence its musical practices within worship?
  • The Church of God in Christ’s belief system centers around spiritual empowerment through the Holy Spirit, which greatly influences its musical practices. The energetic and expressive style of gospel music reflects this emphasis on emotional connection and personal experience with God. Music serves as a means of worship that not only uplifts congregants but also acts as a form of evangelism, spreading the message of faith through powerful spirituals and hymns.
• In what ways did the Church of God in Christ contribute to the broader development of gospel music and spirituals in American culture?
  • The Church of God in Christ significantly contributed to the broader development of gospel music and spirituals by fostering a unique musical environment where creativity flourished. This denomination has been instrumental in promoting talented musicians and choirs that have shaped the sound of contemporary gospel. Through conventions and local church services, COGIC has provided platforms for musicians to share their work, influencing not only church music but also mainstream music genres that draw from gospel traditions.
• Evaluate the impact of the Church of God in Christ on African American religious practices and community life, particularly concerning social justice.
  • The impact of the Church of God in Christ on African American religious practices and community life is profound, especially regarding social justice initiatives. As a prominent Pentecostal denomination, COGIC combines faith with activism, encouraging its members to engage in civil rights movements and address community needs. This focus on social justice is rooted in its teachings about love, equality, and service to others, positioning COGIC as a vital force not just in spiritual matters but also as an advocate for social change within the African American community.

Related terms

Pentecostalism: A Christian movement emphasizing direct personal experience with God through baptism with the Holy Spirit, often evidenced by speaking in tongues and other spiritual gifts.

Gospel Music: A genre of music that expresses Christian themes and messages, rooted in African American religious traditions and often performed in churches.

Holiness Movement: A religious movement that emerged in the 19th century within Methodism, advocating for a life of holiness and separation from sin as a standard for all Christians.