Denominational summary
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7/31/2012
The most common response to querys about denominational identity is Baptist. There are basically three expressions of Baptist faith in the area. They are: Southern, Freewill, and Missionary. These churches tend to be independent in operation while possibly belonging, sometimes loosely, to local or national conventions. Local autonomy is important.
Church of Christ in various expression is probably next. Then there are various strains of the more liturgical churches such as Methodist, Episcopal, Christian, and Catholic. There are also assemblies of Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, and 7th day Adventists. Though there are none in Alma, there are congregations of Islamic and Jewish religions in Fort Smith.
There are quite a few Assemblies of God, Pentecostal, Church of God, Full Gospel, and Non-Denominational churches. It is not difficult to find churches with names like The Vineyard, The River, Journey. One can also find any number of individual ministries with several different names reflecting their almost extreme insistence upon exclusivity.
Overall, there seems to be total tolerance for and acceptance of difference in religious expression. Freedom of and freedom from religion is the real description of the church atmosphere in this area.
Kenny | Alma, AR