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Aontas, which was formerly known as the Association of Irish Evangelical Churches, was founded in the early 1990's. It changed its name to Aontas in 2006 to reflect a change in its constitution. Previously the Association was open to membership only from churches, but in 2006 we decided to provide for the affiliation of Missions, Para-church groups and individuals to become supporters. To reflect our high view of church we have retained the governance of Aontas within the hands of its partner churches.
Aontas exists:
- To further the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Ireland,
- To give visible expression to our unity in Christ by facilitating and fostering close co-operation between Bible-centred churches, missions and individual believers in Ireland,
- To encourage efficient and effective communication of the Gospel.
Aontas is not:
- a denomination and so does not involve itself in the government of local churches.
Gospel Partnership
Aontas will seek to further the Gospel in Ireland in the following ways:
- by enabling the sharing of resources,
- by supporting the planting of Bible-centred churches,
- by sponsoring Bible-centred conferences and activities.
Public Engagement
We will seek to apply Biblical principles to public life in order to promote Christian standards of morality and social justice. We will aim to achieve this by:
- researching and analysing current thinking and social policy in the light of Scripture,
- keeping our Partners, Associates and Supporters informed of societal trends and impending legislation,
- assisting churches to equip their members to engage effectively on issues in society,
- representing Partners, Associates and Supporters concerns to Government Ministers, TDs, and other relevant departments, bodies and agencies",
- releasing statements and securing helpful access to the media,
- acting where appropriate in co-operation with other groups and agencies.
Theological Advocacy
We will engage in theological research and discussions in order to advance and deepen an understanding and acceptance of Biblical Christianity. We will aim to achieve this by:
- monitoring theological trends,
- sponsoring the production of appropriate literature,
- organizing and participating in conferences,
- organizing church leaders' fraternals,
- clarifying and promoting the true basis of inter-church unity.
International Relations
We will seek to express fellowship with Bible-centred churches and evangelical agencies worldwide in order to demonstrate that biblical church unity knows no national boundaries. We will aim to achieve this by:
- stimulating a global outlook and concern among Aontas churches,
- highlighting the various international links of Partners and Associates,
- exchanging Biblical and theological insights on a global basis,
- encouraging mission agencies within Aontas to work closely together,
- inviting suitable international Christians to attend and address Aontas-sponsored events.
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