Who We Are

Who We Are

Purpose Statement

Govans Presbyterian Church is a theologically progressive community empowering people to make the world better. We empower people to make the world better by encouraging each person to develop and nurture a relationship with God as they understand God. God is the source of our life, joy, healing, wholeness, ability to overcome obstacles and make a positive difference in the world. We provide the means for each person to grow in their relationship with God, by inviting and welcoming all people to worship, learn, serve, and care for one another.

As a Christian community, we embrace values and virtues demonstrated in the life and teaching of Jesus and throughout the Bible, including:

  • Selfless love as demonstrated by Jesus throughout his ministry and death on the cross.
  • Relational ministry that prioritizes listening and building relationships.
  • Healing and restoration of God’s creation.
  • Liberation for all people held in bondage whether by personal or social powers.
  • Equality and equal opportunity for all people to enjoy the abundance of God’s creation.

Welcoming and Inclusive

Everyone is welcome here. And we mean everyone as in all colors, cultures, orientations, gender identities and expressions, abilities, levels of perfection, or lack thereof. And we mean welcome as in, please become a full, participating member of our community just as you are and share your gifts at any level of leadership. Everyone is welcome here.

Govans Presbyterian is A More Light Church, meaning we welcome all people into the life and leadership of the church regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, or sexual identity.

We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity.  It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote individuals, as well as administer any and all personnel actions, without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, sex, national origin or ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation or gender identity, genetic information, status as a veteran, union affiliation, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.  We will not tolerate any unlawful discrimination and any such conduct is prohibited.

History

PCUSA seal

Govans Presbyterian Church was established in October 1844 as a Union Chapel. By 1846 it had become a full church and a member of the Presbytery of Baltimore. The Church is part of the PCUSA Denomination, and a member of the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic.

“Govans” (Govan, Govane) is the name of the community in which the church is located. The family that established old Govanstown in the late 1700’s came from the Glasgow area of Scotland – where another congregation, with roots dating back to 575, bears the same family name: Govan Old Parish.

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