The family
Presbyterian and Reformed churches come from the teaching of John Calvin and the Scottish reformer John Knox. The largest bodies in the US are the Presbyterian Church (USA), which is mainline, and the more conservative Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), ECO and the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. The Dutch-rooted Reformed Church in America and Christian Reformed Church share the same tradition. "Presbyterian" refers to government by presbyters, elected elders, rather than bishops.
The order of worship
Most services follow the bulletin's printed order of worship:
- A call to worship and an opening hymn.
- A prayer of confession, said together, followed by an assurance of God's forgiveness.
- Scripture readings and a sermon of 20 to 35 minutes, often working through a book of the Bible over several weeks.
- A creed or affirmation of faith, prayers for the church and the world, and the offering.
- A closing hymn and a benediction (blessing).
Communion
Presbyterians see the Lord's Supper as a true spiritual meeting with Christ. Many churches celebrate it on the first Sunday of the month; others weekly or quarterly. It is often served in the pews: elders pass trays of bread and small cups of grape juice or wine along the rows, and the congregation eats and drinks together. Baptized Christians are welcome to receive. If you would rather not, simply pass the tray on.
Baptism and families
Presbyterians baptize infants as well as adults, usually by sprinkling, during the Sunday service. Children often stay for the first part of the service, including a children's message, before leaving for their classes.