The Presbyterian church is a Protestant denomination. It was founded in the reformation during the 1500’s and followed the teachings of John Calvin. After doctrinal disagreements over the years, there are today several versions of Presbyterianism.
Westminster is part of the PC (USA) which is the largest Presbyterian denomination in the US, and known for its relatively progressive stance on doctrine, including the 2012 rule changes permitting gay clergy and adoption of the Belhar Confession (written in South Africa), which addresses the three key issues of concern to all churches: unity of the church and unity among all people, reconciliation within the church and society, and God’s justice.
Governance of individual churches is by an elected board of elders (the Session). Session representatives are part of a Presbytery. Synods are the regional governing bodies made up of the representatives’ presbyteries. The Synods make up the General Assembly, which is the national governing body.
