Presbyterian Church Government

The word Presbyterian is from the Greek word presbyteros, which means elder. At the local church level, the elders are elected by the congregation, and are known collectively as the Session. At the area level, they may serve as presbyters (delegates) to the Presbytery. On a regional level, as the commissioners to the Synod; and nationally, as the commissioners to the general assembly. The authority of the church is expressed corporately (through ordered groups elected by the people), rather than personally. The moderator ( the ordained pastor) presides over the local Session.

The church government is built on the Holy Scriptures and a Constitution. The Constitution has two parts; The Book of Confessions and The Book of Order, which are available by mail order for $10 each. Please contact the church office at (301)972-3916 for more information.