A Reformed Church, Always Reforming

As an introduction to the Reformation Sunday service on creeds, the Rev. Bill Hassler shared his understanding of what creeds mean to the Presbyterian Church (USA):

The Presbyterian Church in the United States of America is a reformed church always reforming, which differs from creedal churches such as the Episcopalian denomination. We Presbyterians believe that the interpretation of the Bible must be updated to meet certain crisis periods in the history of our country. Creedal churches refer to the Nicene and Apostles' Creed for biblical interpretation. While our Bible is the authoritative Word of God, second to it, and subordinate to it only, are our creeds and confessions.

In 1967, Bill Hassler was at the General Assembly of our church when the Confession of 1967 was adopted. It was adopted after several years of preparation and a detailed judicial process. It deals with racial reconciliation; reconciliation of nations "even at the risk of national security," a phrase debated long and hard.

The Nicene Creed was hammered out in the mid-fourth century at the demand of the first Christian Emperor. This creed deals with such issues as the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, and resurrection of the dead. It was necessary because early Christianity was not united. There were all kinds of sects, many of whom believed in the necessity of a second baptism, depending on gnosis or special knowledge after the first baptism.

For many of us, the latest Brief Statement of Faith is the most meaningful and beautifully expressed description for our present day world. It too was hammered out after much discussion. It must be noted that none of the above were handed down from on high. Rather, our creeds and confessions come from our brothers and sisters in the faith. We Presbyterians are governed by a representative democracy. There is no "we" versus "they" in any of our policy decisions.