Check It Out!

"A Newcomer's Guide to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)" from the Presbyterians Today magazine.

See a series of articles about what Presbyterians believe.

What is a Presbyterian?

  • Presbyterians are Protestants whose church is founded on the concept of democratic rule under God. Anyone who can be a Christian can be a Presbyterian.
  • The word “Presbyterian” comes from the Greek word “presbuteros” which means “elder”. This refers to the system in the early church of choosing leaders from among the wisest members of the church.
  • The Presbyterian Church is a representative democracy governed by elders elected from and by the congregation. The elders form the local church governing body called the session. The session oversees the day-to-day work of the church.
  • The elders chair the various church committees. We have 15 elders to fill the following responsibilities:
Clerk of Session Finance Committee Worship and Music
Adult Education Children’s Ministry Church Growth
Youth Ministry Outreach & Advocacy Fellowship
Personnel Property Nominating Committee
  • Deacons are also elected from and by the congregation. They support members in time of need and joy and serve as a communication link. Valley Church is organized into groups with about 20 family units each called “Care Circles.” Each deacon is in charge of a Care Circle and helps the group stay connected and informed.
  • The Treasurer and Financial Secretary are also elected positions. The treasurer monitors the church bookkeeping. The financial secretary keeps track of members’ pledges and giving.
  • What do Presbyterians believe? All that is required to be a Presbyterian is to:
    1. Confess the Christian faith
    2. Trust in Christ as our forgiving savior
    3. Promise to follow Christ and Christ’s example for living
    4. Commit oneself to attend church and to become involved in its work.
  • Presbyterians believe that the Bible is the inspired record of the revelation of God to all people.
  • In communion, the bread and wine represent the sacrificial body and blood of Christ and recall the last meal shared with the Apostles. All who believe and trust in Jesus Christ may receive communion.
  • Baptism is an initiation into the church community, but it does not guarantee access to heaven. Unbaptized people are not denied salvation. Baptism can be performed in another church--there is no need to be re-baptized in a Presbyterian Church.
  • Need a source for Christian and Presbyterian books and supplies?  Cokesbury