The Protestant Reformed Church
The Protestant Reformed Church began in the sixteenth century following the preaching of first the German Martin Luther and then the Frenchman John Calvin. Their writings invited Christians to rediscover from the Bible the true Gospel message, free from the doctrines and practices which had distorted it over the centuries.
In France, the "Eglise réformée" was restored as a unity in 1938 by the merger of several denominations: reformed, free evangelical and methodist. Elsewhere, different branches remain under names such as Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational - the latter two in England having merged during the 1970s as the "United Reformed Church".
Core values of the "Eglise Réformée of France"
- The "Eglise Réformée of France" practices "pluralism in dialogue". Within the church there are several theological viewpoints. To maintain its unity, there is a respect for these varied opinions and for the beliefs and practices of those who hold them.
- Because collaboration with other churches is a part of its calling, the "Eglise Réformée of France" does not look upon itself at the only holder of truth.
- It is an open church. It refuses to distinguish between "converts" and "sympathisers". It has a sense of responsibility towards all people and invites each one to a personal confession of faith.
- All roles, including that of pastor, are open equally to male and female.
- It practices the "Priesthood of all Believers". As such, Pastors are lay people who are appointed to a specific task in the church.
- There is no hierarchy within the church, which is governed according to the principle of the presbyterian-synodical system. This assures both the independence of the local church, and the solidarity between local churches. The national synod, made up of representatives of regional synods, has an authority which is recognised by the local churches.
- The "Eglise Réformée of France" recognises that it has a social responsibility. The Gospel commands us to work for justice in our society and to oppose all that works to oppress our fellow-men.
The "Eglise Réformée" in Lyon
8 fellowships and also 2 hospital chaplaincies
