Presbyterian Church (USA)

The Presbyterian Church (USA) is a mainline Protestant Christian denomination in the United States. It is part of the Reformed family of Protestantism, descending from the branch of the Protestant Reformation begun by John Calvin. It is the largest Presbyterian denomination in the USA and was established by the 1983 merger of the former Presbyterian Church in the United States, a southern branch of American Presbyterianism, and the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, a northern branch. The unified body currently has approximately 2.4 million members, 11,100 congregations, and 14,000 ordained ministers. It is a member of the National Council of Churches.

Current discussions within the Church

The Presbyterian Church (USA) currently is struggling with the issue of Biblical interpretation, particularly as it relates to homosexuality. The Book of Order prohibits the ordination those who are not faithful in marriage or chaste in singleness (G-6.0106b); several attempts have been made to remove this from the Book of Order but no attempt has recieved both the necessary votes at the General Assembly and approval of enough presbyteries. Gay people remain welcome as members, although - at least officially - they can't serve as pastors, elders or deacons.

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Several Presbyterian scholars, pastors, and theologians have been heavily involved in the debate over homosexuality, including Robert Gagnon, Susan Nelson, Charles Partee, Andrew Purves, Mark Achtemeier, and Chris Glaser an openly gay Elder and leading Queer theologian.

Related Topics:
Andrew Purves - Chris Glaser - Queer

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In 2005 a female minister in Pennsylvania came under scrutiny after performing a marriage between a lesbian couple, including infusion of Buddhist rites in the ceremony. Her case is to be heard by the church's court.

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Officially the church condones blessings for same sex unions, given that they are not "marriages."

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The Presbyterian Church USA is an organizational member of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, which advocates gun control.

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In June of 2004, the General Assembly met in Richmond, Virginia and voted 413-62 to divest itself of companies doing business in or with Israel.

Related Topics:
Richmond, Virginia - Israel

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