Denoting that the church is governed by elders (Greek: presbyteros) as opposed to bishops and archbishops (episcopacy).
While the details may differ, the general pattern of leadership consists of the Session at the local church, made up of a group of elders presided by a moderator (usually the minister/pastor of the church). The Session is usually aided by a board of deacons, who oversees the practical administration of policies. Representatives from local churches in an area form a presbytery, whose representatives, in turn, form the synod; these bodies provide a structure for mutual accountability and aid.
While Presbyterian churches hold the Bible to be the supreme standard of faith and conduct, almost all of them subscribe also to the Westminster Confession and Cathechism as an adequate formulation of faith.
©ALBERITH