WHO ARE PRESBYTERIANS?

The Greek word "presbuteros" meaning "elder", used 72 times in the New Testament, provided the name for the Presbyterian family of churches which includes the Reformed churches of the world, both names designating churches of the Calvinist tradition.

The Presbyterian Church (USA) is distinctly a confessional and connectional church, distinguished by the representation of elders, laymen and laywomen, in its government.

Presbyterians are Believers and Doers -
WE BELIEVE in the Great Ends of the Church, as set forth in our Book of Order: "the proclamation of the Gospel for the salvation of humankind; the shelter, nurture, and spiritual fellowship of the children of God; the maintenance of divine worship; the preservation of the truth; the promotion of social righteousness; and the exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the world."

WE BELIEVE in the theology of mission, as expressed in the Westminster Confession of Faith. "... Christ hath commissioned his Church to go into all the world and to make disciples of all nations. All believers are therefore under obligation...to contribute by their prayers, gifts, and personal efforts to the extension of the Kingdom of Christ throughout the whole earth."

WE DO mission and its related functions in "good Presbyterian order" through the structures of our General Assembly, synods, presbyteries and local churches which provide accountability in a connectional system.

Presbyterians are Serving and Caring People -
During 1986 the Presbyterian Church (USA) made possible the mission service in the USA and countries abroad, of 1,183 men and women deeply committed to mission as the redemptive influence of Christ's church in the world. Beyond our border we engage in mission and relations in partnership with churches and ecumenical bodies of 87 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia and the Pacific.

Mountain View Statement of Ministry and Mission

The people of Mountain View Church are committed to:
- Trusting in Jesus Christ as Lord,
- Living Faithfully in the power of the Holy Spirit,
- Equipping ourselves as Christ's Disciples, and
- Reflecting God's grace one person at a time.
 

Core Values for Ministry

Jesus Christ is the Incarnate Son of God and the only Savior and Lord of the world.  Scripture is the authority fro our faith and life.  Mission at home and around the world provides evidence of God's love for the world.

Christian education strengthens spiritual growth and equips us to better serve God.  Members of the whole community of Mountain View Presbyterian Church are ministers to all people.
 

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