What is Riverside Presbytery?

"The Presbytery of Riverside" is the corporate expression, the regional organization unity, and the seat of authority of the Presbyterian Church (USA) of all churches and ministers of the Word and Sacrament within Riverside, San Bernardino and a portion of Kern Counties in California.

Non-officially, what the presbytery does in very real and beneficial terms:

• Connects local churches to the national denomination, interfaith efforts and the church universal.   
• Strengthens relationships between individuals and local churches within the denomination.   
• Creates a support system for ideas and problem-solving.   
• Matches churches and pastors in a successful relationships that helps everyone move forward in their spiritual journey.

The Constitution of the Presybyterian Church (USA) in the Book of Order establishes the responsibility and power of the presbytery. Included in part are:

• Responsibility for the mission and government of the church throughout the San Bernardino, Riverside, and the part of Kern Counties its region covers.    
• Development of a strategy for the mission of the church in the area.    
• Coordination of the work of its member churches, guiding and mobilizing their strengths for the most effective witness to the broader community.    
• Initiation of mission through a variety of forms in light of the larger strategy of the synod and the General Assembly.    
• Ordination, reception, dismissal, and installation of ministers.    
• Care and oversight of candidates for the ministry.    
• Election of commissioners to synod and General Assembly.