Presbyterian churches

Where it came from

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.

What it holds

• 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

What a service is like

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.

How it relates to others

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.

Common questions