The Baptist denomination is the largest free church denomination in the world with over forty-three members around the world. However, nearly thirty-three million Baptists live in America. The origins of Baptist churches can be traced back to John Smyth and the Separatist Movement in 1608 that began in England. Something that makes the Baptist church's beliefs unique is that they believe in the baptism of adult believers instead of infant baptism. Baptist denominations follow a congregational church governance in which each individual congregation is governed autonomously. Thanks for using ChurchAngel.com - the ultimate church finder!