Presbytery Policies for Gracious Dismissal

While the mission of the Coalition is to work for biblical faithfulness within the PC(USA), we realize that some churches are exploring the option of seeking dismissal to other reformed bodies.  With the hope that the process involved in such dismissal will be handled with graciousness instead of rancor, we offer the following examples of "Gracious Dismissal Policies" that have been adopted in various presbyteries.  Perhaps one of them could serve as a model for your presbytery as well.

 

We urge churches considering dismissal to stay engaged in denominational affairs throughout the process.  Involvement in one's local presbytery as well as the General Assembly can make the process easier for the church leaving, and less painful for all involved.

 

Beaver-Butler (2007)
Charleston-Atlantic (2009)
Charlotte (2009)
James (2009)
Mid-South (2008)
Mississippi (2011)
New Covenant (2006)
Olympia (2009)
The Jubilee Process

This draft of a document in Olympia Presbytery was not adopted (as far as we know),  but it still is worth a look.

Sacramento (2007)
San Joaquin (2007)
Southeastern Illinois (2010)
Washington (2007)
MANY OTHERS!

The Presbyterian Layman has these and others posted on their site.

Other Resources Related to Dismissal

Presbytery Dismissal Policies: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

September 30, 2011 by The Layman Online.