Independent Presbyterians

[VirginiaHuguenot]

I am aware of some congregations out there which claim to be Presbyterian but do not have any organic union with other congregations, ie., they are not part of a Presbytery. On what level can such congregations be considered Presbyterian? Is an independent Presbyterian church possible or is it an oxymoron? Is the word Presbyterian confined to a church which has elders or does it require a church to be part of a Presbytery as well? A good working definition of Presbytery would be helpful too, because I see the words "confederation" and "union" used in place of Presbytery in some instances - are they synonomous? I would appreciate comments and suggested reading on this topic.

 

[blhowes]

They sound more like Congregationalists to me than Presbyterians.

Here's one explanation of why one of the churches calls themselves "independent Presbyterian".

http://www.ipcsav.org/GenericPage/DisplayPage.aspx?guid=9189C059-DCDE-46BB-ABC8-294A4153A119

 

[sastark]

"Presbyterian" means ruled by "presbyters" or "elders". You do not have to be part of a Regional Presbytery in or to be Presbyterian.

(Ducking and covering....waiting for replies from "you must be part of a presbytery in order to be presbyterian" folks)

 

[pastorway]

One of the greatest early influences in my life was the pastor of an Independent Presbyterian Church here in Texas.

Phillip

 

[Irishcat922]

Who was that Phillip?

 

[C. Matthew McMahon]

Oxymorons:

Jumbo Shrimp
Original Copy
Passive Agressive
Airline Food
Alone Together
Independent Presbyterian

 

[Puritan Sailor]

I think the only way a church could be presbyterian and independent is if they are in transition. They believe they must be part of a presbytery, but haven't found one yet that they can in good conscience agree with.