By Michael Carry, from The Presbyterian Outlook:
After presiding over a “Process for Pastoral Responsibility, Accountability and Gracious Witness,” Central Florida Presbytery determined that Trinity Presbyterian Church of Satellite Beach should be dismissed peaceably into ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians. Finding that none of its members wanted to form a continuing Presbyterian Church (USA) congregation, the presbytery chose to dismiss Trinity church without financial penalty or obligation. Rather than use its power to diminish the congregation’s future mission, the presbytery embraced a larger vision.
Grateful for this gracious treatment and enthusiastic for shared mission projects; the congregation continues to provide significant support for selected causes through its former presbytery and denomination. Prior to dismissal, Trinity’s Session indicated its intention to maintain its commitment to PC(USA) causes for at least three years. Since dismissal, $10,000 has been given to support a suburban Orlando church plant and a Hispanic congregation’s expansion of its facilities. Through the Antioch Partners, the congregation has also provided $10,000 for three PC(USA) missionaries. Rather than abandon its parent denomination, the congregation has embraced a larger vision.
If desirous of such partnership with PC(USA) entities, why would the congregation pursue separation?