Presbyterian churches

De onde veio

Rooted in Calvin's reform in Geneva in the 16th century, brought to Scotland by John Knox where the presbyterian form of government took shape. The Westminster Confession (1646) is its classic statement. It travelled to North America with Scottish and Irish migration and to Korea and Taiwan through mission — Korea remains one of its strongholds.

No que crê

• Authority: Scripture alone
• Salvation: emphasises God's sovereignty and election (predestination)
• Baptism: infants are baptised, usually by pouring
• Communion: Christ is spiritually and truly present
• Governance: presbyterian — elected elders decide together, with presbyteries and assemblies above the local church
• Strong attention to doctrine and confessions

Como é um culto

Ordered and dignified, built around preaching that is usually substantial and clearly structured. Traditional hymns are common, though many congregations now include contemporary music. The overall tone is restrained and thoughtful.

Como se relaciona com as outras

Shares roots with Reformed and Congregational churches; the difference is chiefly in governance. Holds the opposite view to Methodists on predestination, and differs from Baptists on infant baptism.

Perguntas comuns