PFR proposal would create
new non-geographic synod
The Layman , October 26, 2009
Presbyterians for Renewal (PFR) has announced a proposal that would create a new non-geographic synod in the Presbyterian Church (USA) as an alternative for those “who are currently hindered in their response by the state of affairs in the denomination.”
Citing the PCUSA’s inability to articulate “a compelling unified witness to the person and work of Jesus Christ, the mission and purposes of God, the authority and interpretation of Scripture and the role of the Church in the world,” the proposal would create a synod defined by its theology and moral standards rather than the traditional geographically-based divisions.
In order to be considered by the General Assembly, PFR’s proposal must be presented as an overture from a presbytery. The Rev. Dr. Paul E. Detterman, PFR’s executive director, told The Layman that several presbyteries are looking at the proposal.
Putting the missional intent first in its proposal, the new synod would emphasize:
- the singular saving work of Jesus Christ;
- the unique and authoritative witness of Scripture;
- the calling to live not for themselves and institutional interests, but for others by engaging in loving service locally and beyond;
- intentional efforts to learn from others within the global church, build relationships, and partner in various ministry endeavors.
It also calls for upholding the oft-debated fidelity/chastity standard for ordination in the PCUSA constitution and opposing the blessing of same-sex marriages – two issues among many that have generated much of the denominational discourse of the last 40 years.
“Presbyterians for Renewal was compelled to declare the time had come to find a new way to relate to one another within the PCUSA,” according to a letter that accompanies PFR’s proposal. “We continue to contest for the historic and global witness of the Church to remain the faith and practice of our denomination. But, Biblical and missional faithfulness compels us to direct energy away from answering the self-serving demands of a minority within our own denomination to joyfully proclaim Jesus Christ in the world. Passion and energy that has been diverted to an interminable internal struggle must be released into active participation in God’s mission.”
Among its stated goals are providing an alternative for congregations or individuals wanting to leave the PCUSA, or a chance for those who already have left to return. The proposal also states the synod will minimize bureaucracy in favor of a greater focus on ministry.
“The goal is to give glory to God, not the PCUSA,” PFR said in an explanation of the proposal.
The overture for a new synod must be approved by the PCUSA General Assembly and requires changes to the Book of Order and Form of Government. For full ratification, the measure would need approval from a majority of the denomination’s 173 existing presbyteries.
The new synod would be named at its first meeting and comprised of no fewer than three presbyteries, which would have to vote to leave existing synods to join the new synod. The proposal stresses each congregation’s right, through a congregational vote, to leave or join with its property intact. Through a two-thirds vote by its members, any existing presbytery would have the right within 180 days of General Assembly approval of PFR’s proposal to become an originating presbytery.
The proposal is the result of five months of study involving more than 40 regional meetings and input from 3,000 people.