The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America is movement within the Christian Church which had its origins (like the Baptist, Episcopal, Methodist, and Lutheran Churches) in the Protestant Reformation of the 16th Century. The first organization of Presbyterian Churches in America took place in Philadelphia in 1706. The Presbyterian Church grew, as immigrants from England, Scotland, and Ireland came to America to escape religious persecution and economic conditions. Throughout our nation’s history, Presbyterians have been instrumental in local and national government, in missions, and in establishing hospitals and educational institutions. There is also the history within the Presbyterian Church of division and reunion within the denomination.
Today’s Presbyterian Church is part of the body of Christ. The Presbyterian Church is connectional. This means that regional churches cooperate in such areas as mission and starting new churches. The Presbyterian Church is ecumenical. This means they seek to cooperate with other Christian churches to fulfill the mission of Christ, spreading the Good News of the Gospel to all people. Presbyterians believe in:
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the Bible as the authoritative rule for life and faith
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God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
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salvation by faith in Jesus Christ
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the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper
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the stewardship of the gifts God gives each member
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worship, fellowship, and service with all members together