Brief History of the Presbyterian Church
Presbyterians can be understood first and foremost by turning to the Bible, where we find the leadership of the Church is shared by the very members who make up the worshipping body. Led by “Elders” (in the Greek: Presbuteros), the Presbyterian Church has always turned to “Teaching Elders” (clergy) and “Ruling Elders” (members) for God-guided leadership at all levels of the denomination body; from local congregations, to presbytery, synod, and even at the national level.
As a Christian denomination, the Presbyterian Church (USA) traces its history to the Reformation and the writings of John Calvin. Throughout the last 500 years, thanks to Calvin and other Reformed theologians, the Reformed faith has sought to grow faithfully in adherence to the words of Scripture yet remain open to the direction the Lord leads us.
The PC(USA) as it is today, came about through the reunion of the northern and southern American branches of the denomination that were divided during the early days of the United States. While the Civil War would end in 1800’s, the Presbyterian Church would not reunite until 1983. Today, the denomination has over 10,000 congregations across the country.
Helpful Presbyterian Links
Presbyterian Church (USA) Homepage
Synod of the Rocky Mountains Homepage
Presbytery of Plains and Peaks Homepage
Learn More About the PC(USA)
Learn more about what how the Presbyterian Church (USA) works and what it believes by visiting the Presbyterian Mission Agency’s website on “What We Believe“.
Of special interest is their Theology page, where you can find links on specific topics such as: