The Presbyterian Church (USA) is one of the largest Presbyterian denominations in the United States. As with any large organization, the PCUSA has a number of documents and agreements that govern its operations and practices. One such document is the Formula of Agreement.
The Formula of Agreement is a document that was created in 1993 by four mainline Protestant denominations in the United States: the PCUSA, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the Reformed Church in America (RCA), and the United Church of Christ (UCC). The purpose of the Formula of Agreement was to establish a relationship of full communion between these four denominations, meaning that they would recognize one another`s sacraments, ordinations, and ministries as valid.
The Formula of Agreement outlines a number of specific agreements between these four denominations. One of the main points of agreement is the recognition of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord`s Supper. The Formula of Agreement states that these sacraments are „the means of grace by which God works forgiveness, reconciliation, and renewal among believers.“ The document also establishes guidelines for the celebration of these sacraments, including the use of water in baptism and the use of bread and wine in the Lord`s Supper.
Another key agreement in the Formula of Agreement is the recognition of one another`s ordained ministries. The document states that the PCUSA, ELCA, RCA, and UCC each have „valid and authentic ministries,“ and that ordained ministers in these denominations can be received into any of the other denominations without being re-ordained. This means that, for example, a Presbyterian minister could become a Lutheran minister without having to go through the process of ordination again.
The Formula of Agreement also establishes guidelines for the joint worship services and other collaborative projects between these four denominations. For example, it calls for the use of shared liturgical resources and the development of joint educational programs. The document also encourages these denominations to work together on social justice issues and to advocate for the rights of the marginalized and oppressed.
Overall, the Formula of Agreement is an important document that outlines the relationship between the PCUSA and three other mainline Protestant denominations in the United States. It establishes a relationship of full communion between these denominations, meaning that they recognize one another`s sacraments, ordinations, and ministries as valid. The Formula of Agreement also outlines guidelines for joint worship services, collaborative projects, and advocacy work. As a result, the Formula of Agreement has played an important role in strengthening the ties between these four denominations and promoting greater unity among Christians in the United States.