Presbyteries are one of the places in our system where the dying of old patterns of church life and the birth of new patterns come together most intensely.  It can be difficult to see the opportunities such a moment brings; the challenges, difficulties and losses press in so closely.  And yet there are presbyteries all across the PC(USA) imagining, seeking the opportunities, gathering for new possibilities.

Paul Hooker's essay, Identity - Polity - Praxis, is a contribution to this ferment.  Hooker calls us to hear and respond to the questions we face in this time of intense transition - "who are we called to be?," "what are we called to do?," "how are we called to do it?" Envisioning presbyteries as embodiments of life together, thinking through how they can become such places - that's a conversation that is energizing.  Identity - Polity - Praxis is an invitation to continue (or to join) that conversation.

This booklet provides Biblical, theological and historical background as well as current application ideas for each of the Social Creed affirmations. It also has questions for discussion and links to the Hudson River Presbytery's posters and other resources.