Resources
Living out the Reformed faith as churches in a presbytery requires both theological reflection and humble love. Whether you are new to Presbyterianism or want to understand more about our approach to Presbyterianism, these resources will help you. Our vision can be traced back to places such as the Church Order of Dort (1619) where we are told: 'No church shall in any way lord it over another church, no minister over other ministers, no elder or deacon over other elders or deacons.'
Governance
We work together as churches according to the Reformed principles of the continental approach to Presbyterianism, which traces its roots back to John Calvin. Today this vision of humble mutual service is upheld by Dutch Reformed Churches and the United Reformed Churches in North America. While the approach to Presbyterianism more commonly found in the UK descends from the Scottish implementation of the Reformation, the continental approach was favoured by many of the Westminster Divines and has much to offer those who wish to uphold the Westminster Standards today.
These two talks explore the nature of and value of our approach to Presbyterian polity. The talks are available in two audio parts, and an expanded text format.
DEVELOPED BY DUMASTAR
John Murray promoted a different stream of Presbyterian polity, but in 1958 he gave an address in England that said much to support our understanding of local churches.
Worship
Our churches are committed to supporting one another's distinctive approaches to worship, with a shared commitment to the principles in the Westminster Directory for the Public Worship of God. This enables us to support healthy diversity alongside unity in Reformed essentials. The short talks from one of our churches will help you appreciate the wisdom of the Directory.