The Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC) has joined the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), becoming one of three denominations welcomed into the organisation in August. The ECC enters alongside the Association of Independent Methodists and the Church of God of Prophecy. The move places the Covenant within a national body that speaks for millions of evangelical Christians across the United States.
Founded in 1942, the NAE brings together more than 40 denominations along with thousands of churches, schools and non-profit organisations. It provides resources for its member bodies and represents evangelical churches in public-policy conversations. For the Covenant, with its deep roots in the Scandinavian free-church tradition, membership signals a continued commitment to working with believers across a wide range of traditions.
“We are delighted to welcome these three denominations into the NAE family,” said NAE president Walter Kim, adding that their “unique histories, ministries, and perspectives reflect the breadth and vitality of evangelical Christianity.” ECC president Tammy Swanson-Draheim said the Covenant believes it is important to keep “finding ways to partner with other denominations and organizations that are seeking to follow Jesus faithfully.” Pointing to NAE resources such as “For the Health of the Nation,” she added, “In a time when division so often shapes our public life, the Church has an opportunity to offer a different witness.”
Source: Evangelical Covenant Church / Covenant Companion — covchurch.org
