Why are we called Nazarenes?

For a quick summary, read below. You can also access the denomination of the Church of the Nazarene's General website at www.nazarene.org or if you'd like to know more about our church right here in Visalia, click here!

The Church of the Nazarene was born out of a revival at the turn of the century. Our roots track back through Methodism, the Reformation, and even the Roman Catholic Church.

The Church of the Nazarene believed that churches should not be religious country clubs, but mission stations to reach people for Jesus Christ. (We haven't always lived up to our forefathers wishes.)

The Church officially began on October 8, 1908, in Pilot Point, Texas. It put great emphasis on ministry to the lost, living a daily life that was pleasing to God, (not just on Sunday) and having celebration worship services. The Bible would be our guide for truth. . .affirmed by the Holy Spirit as He worked through Godly leaders.

This local church is a part of larger denomination of over one million members world wide. We have missionaries in over 100 countries. We sponsor seven Universities, a Bible college, and a seminary for training ministers.

As a denomination, we believe in Holiness (living fully devoted lives unto Jesus Christ our Lord). This means abstaining from anything that causes you to stumble or easily entangles you (Hebrews 12:1-2). We try to learn to discern what is acceptable for a follower of Jesus to do. Since morality cannot be legislated, we follow the words of Jesus who said the two greatest commandments are to love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength and love your neighbor as yourself. By passionately following these two commandments, the Holy Spirit will guide you as to what is right and wrong. (Romans 14 is a good portion of scripture to read when you are in doubt about lifestyle choices.)