The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), with denominational offices in Louisville,
Kentucky, has approximately 2.3 million members, more than 10,000 congregations
and 14,000 ordained and active ministers.
Presbyterians trace their history to the 16th century and the Protestant Reformation.
Our heritage, and much of what we believe, began with John Calvin (1509-1564), whose
writings crystallized much of the Reformed thinking that came before him.
Some of the principles articulated by John Calvin remain at the core of Presbyterian beliefs.
Among these are the sovereignty of God, the authority of the scripture, justification by
grace through faith and the priesthood of all believers. What they mean is that God is
the supreme authority throughout the universe. Our knowledge of God and God's purpose for
humanity comes from the Bible, particularly what is revealed in the New Testament through
the life of Jesus Christ. Our salvation (justification) through Jesus is God's generous
gift to us and not the result of our own accomplishments. It is everyone's job - ministers
and lay people alike - to share this Good News with the whole world. That is also why the
Presbyterian church is governed at all levels by a combination of clergy and laity,
men and women alike.
While there is diversity in the values and beliefs of the members of John Knox Presbyterian
Church, the congregation can generally be categorized as theologically
conservative and evangelical.
In recent years the congregation has had a local group of Presbyterians Pro-life.
It has also aligned itself with the Confessing Church movement.
We believe that Sunday School is important for more than just children.
There are five different adult classes offered, and Sunday School remains
active throughout the entire year. Recently we have a renewed focus on
discipleship. Participants are involved with small groups of three, and
sometimes also with a larger group of those involved.
There is a belief that missions are important. We have supported several
local missions, such as Total Living Center, Calvary Mission, Stark County
Prison Ministry, and Habitat for Humanity. Additionally we have supported
world missions such as TEAMS for Medical Missions, Wycliffe Bible Translators,
and Rev. Bill Yoder. Youth have participated in mission work both locally
and in other areas of the US over the years. The Campus Preschool is a part
of our on going mission commitment to the community is which we are located.
For my Father's will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.
-John 6:40