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TechnoratiThe new PC(USA) document argues that the constitutional standard "requiring 'fidelity in marriage between a man and a woman' or 'chastity in singleness' remains in place."
Still, dissident Presbyterians state: "Denominational liberals – and some in the 'evangelical' camp who place a high priority on institutional preservation – claim that 'nothing has changed'" with the 2006 decision. "But deep in their hearts, increasing numbers of Presbyterians know that something very significant has occurred," states NWAC's "A Time for Every Purpose Under Heaven" strategy report.
The General Assembly of the PC(USA) "eviscerated its Constitution," according to NWAC.
Another major controversy surrounds "The Trinity: God's Love Overflowing" report which recommends feminine and other unconventional language for the Trinity. The General Assembly last year "received" the report, but the new clarification offered by the Office of Theology and Worship stresses "receive" is "the weakest action short of rejection" and that the General Assembly did not "adopt" the report. And the other Trinitarian images suggested by the report are not to be used as substitutes for "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit" but are intended for "modest use."
The PC(USA)'s latest document states that the questions about faith and mission of the church that the NWAC has raised "must be dealt with seriously" and that "the whole church" cannot be held responsible for every departure from its standards voiced by individual leaders in the denomination.
This past year, six congregations were dismissed to other denominations and baptisms and churches have continued to decline in number in recent years. The total PC(USA) membership is now at 2.3 million.
The NWAC approved a proposal in February offering dissident congregations the option of continuing to remain within the PC(USA) and be a faithful witness there or to "realign" with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
