Basis of Union (Presbyterian Church of Australia)

The Basis of Union is a foundational document that governs the Presbyterian Church of Australia (PCA). It outlines the essential tenets of faith and practice that unite the various Presbyterian denominations that merged to form the PCA. It serves as a statement of doctrinal agreement and a framework for fellowship and cooperation within the church. The Basis of Union is not a creed in the strictest sense, but rather a constitution outlining the essential beliefs and practices necessary for membership and unity.

The document itself is built upon several key components:

• The Confession of Faith: This is a primary component, detailing the core theological beliefs of the PCA, largely derived from the Westminster Confession of Faith, but may include specific adaptations or clarifications relevant to the Australian context. It lays out the doctrines concerning God, Christ, the Holy Spirit, salvation, the church, and other essential theological topics.

• The Larger and Shorter Catechisms: These catechisms offer concise summaries of the theological teachings within the Confession of Faith, providing a structured explanation of Christian doctrine suitable for instruction and understanding. They are often used in the education and formation of church members.

• The Directory for Public Worship: This section addresses the forms and practices of public worship within the PCA. It provides guidelines on the conduct of services, sacraments, and other liturgical elements.

• Form of Church Government: This section details the structure and governance of the PCA. It outlines the hierarchical arrangement of church courts (sessions, presbyteries, synods, and General Assembly) and their respective responsibilities and authority.

The Basis of Union aims to achieve unity in diversity, recognizing that while there may be variations in interpretation or emphasis on specific points of doctrine, there is a fundamental agreement on the essential truths of the Christian faith as expressed in the document. Adherence to the Basis of Union is a requirement for membership and participation within the Presbyterian Church of Australia. Variations in understanding or interpretation are expected to be handled through established church processes of discussion and deliberation within the various governing bodies. The ongoing interpretation and application of the Basis of Union are a dynamic process within the life of the church.