In the past two years, more than 40 congregations have left the Presbyterian Church (USA) and affiliated with the EPC for reasons similar to those cited by Covenant

Members of Covenant Church in West Lafayette, Indiana say a denominational change hasn’t altered their Christian identity and purpose.

“Covenant hasn’t changed as a church,” said the Rev. David Henderson, senior pastor. “It is the same God we worship, the same good news that we preach.”

Last spring, Covenant Presbyterian Church, left the Presbyterian Church (USA) to join the more conservative Evangelical Presbyterian Church denomination.
In November, the 31⁄2-year denominational transition was formalized and celebrated at a worship service.

Henderson explained that Covenant had been part of the Presbyterian Church (USA) for 50 years, but the “relationship was an uneasy one.”

Nationally, Episcopal Church (USA), United Methodist Church and Presbyterian Church (USA) are among the denominations experiencing conflict over issues involving homosexuality.

Henderson said theological and ethical differences were reasons for Covenant’s decision to leave the Presbyterian Church (USA).

He said the denomination was accepting wider and wider theological positions on “central tenets of our faith” that Covenant didn’t agree with.

“We joined the EPC to share with others our understanding of the historical understanding of the Christian faith.” he said. “Who is Jesus? Is he the one way or just another option?