Congregationalism is a form of church governance where each local church is independent and self-governing. This means that decisions about worship, leadership, and community activities are made by the congregation itself, rather than by a higher authority or centralized organization. This approach emphasizes the autonomy of individual churches and the importance of the local community in spiritual matters. Congregationalist churches often value democratic principles, allowing members to participate actively in decision-making processes, which fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility within the congregation.