Final answer:
The Congregational church government is an independent self-governed body, without higher church hierarchy, found particularly in churches established in New England by the Puritans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Congregational Church Government
The Congregational church government refers to a form of church governance where each individual congregation governs itself independently, without a higher ecclesiastical authority such as bishops or archbishops. In New England, the churches organized in Massachusetts Bay and Connecticut by the Puritans were examples of congregational churches. These were founded by groups of "visible saints" who covenanted together to create a church. Membership required a careful examination by the founders to ensure the applicants were likely part of the elect. Each congregation was autonomous, managing its own affairs and choosing its own leaders including a pastor and other church officers. This structure was in direct contrast to the hierarchical Anglican Church and was preferred by colonists seeking religious autonomy and freedom from established ecclesial authorities.
In addition to their independency, these congregations were also involved in the governance of the colony, with church membership often being a requirement for participating in civic affairs, such as voting and holding office. Eminent Puritan ministers like John Cotton, Richard Mather, Increase Mather, and Cotton Mather played significant roles not only in religious matters but also in overseeing the social activities within the colony.