PC(USA)

Wake Forest Presbyterian is affiliated with the historic PC(USA), tracing our history back to prior to pre-Revolutionary War times.  Currently, we are a denomination with  1.75 million members in 16 synods; 173 presbyteries ; just over 10,000 congregations nationwide .  There are many different brands of “Presbyterian” churches throughout the United States, which reflects our capacity to struggle hard with one another over numerous issues related to culture; theology and governance.  This has led to splits, and sometimes reunion, within our denomination. 

 

The name comes from a Greek work, which means, “ruled by elders”, or church leaders, who carry out the work of a local congregation.  In other words, all Presbyterians have similar church governing approaches, using elected “elders” (presbyters) to carry out the ministry of the congregation and the greater church.

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WFPC Leadership

The Session is the governing body of a local Presbyterian church.  The congregation elects individuals who are committed, active and gifted leaders to serve as “elders.” The Session is responsible for all the various ministry areas of the congregation.  Our 18 elders meet at Wake Forest Presbyterian the third Thursday of each month.  Their various committees meet the first Thursday of each month, and anyone who is interested in working more closely in a particular area of ministry are welcomed to come be part of a particular ministry team.

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Our Diaconate is made up of 12 deacons elected by the congregation, and, like in the early church recorded in the Book of Acts, their ministry focuses on care of the congregation and its life together.  They oversee the ministries of welcome and hospitality; fellowships and events; compassion and care of those who are struggling with various life circumstances;  Stephen Ministry; branch ministry (staying connected), and more. They meet the second Thursday of each month for their regular meeting, and they also gather in ministry teams the first Thursday of each month.  All are welcomed to come find out more.