Editing Congregational polity (section)

==Basic form==
The term ''congregational polity'' describes a form of church governance that is based on the local congregation. Each local congregation is independent and self-supporting, governed by its own members.{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}} Some band into loose voluntary associations with other congregations that share similar beliefs (e.g., the [[Willow Creek Community Church|Willow Creek Association]] and the [[Unitarian Universalist Association]]).{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}}  Others join "conventions", such as the [[Southern Baptist Convention]], the [[National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.|National Baptist Convention]] or the [[American Baptist Churches USA]] (formerly the Northern Baptist Convention).{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}} These conventions generally provide stronger ties between congregations, including some doctrinal direction and pooling of financial resources.{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}} Congregations that belong to associations and conventions are still independently governed.{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}} Most [[Non-denominational Christianity|non-denominational churches]] are organized along congregationalist lines.{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}} Many do not see these voluntary associations as "[[Christian denomination|denominations]]", because they "believe that there is no church other than the local church, and denominations are in variance to Scripture."{{sfn|Berry|2003|p=49}}