We hear this question a lot!
Generally speaking, we are a Reformed Christian denomination that focuses on God’s grace, living out our faith, and serving others with love. We differ from many other churches in our governance, beliefs, and practices. We embrace a connectional church structure led by elected elders and professional clergy. Presbyterians emphasize God’s grace in salvation, as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9. Similarly, we believe that the sacraments (baptism and communion) are gifts from God that we choose to receive, not something that we do for ourselves or for each other.
There are several different groups within the Presbyterian denomination. We are part of the PC(USA). The PC(USA) is divided into “Presbyteries” that are made up of churches that are in geographical proximity to each other. We are a member of the Presbytery of East Tennessee. You can read more about those groups on their websites.