“Despite this notable contribution to the expansion of God’s Kingdom in the world and especially in Brazil, our church has understood that the recent decisions made by the PC(USA) are against the principle of the authority of Scripture over the life and faith of the Church, as well as the confessional documents of our common Reformed heritage.”

Two Latin American Presbyterian denominations have decided to sever ties with the largest Presbyterian church in the United States over its recent vote to allow gay marriage. Presbyterian Church (USA) has confirmed that last month the Independent Presbyterian Church of Brazil and the Evangelical Presbyterian and Reformed Church of Peru voted to end their affiliation with the American denomination.

In a statement republished by Presbyterian News Service, the IPIB wrote that issues regarding its affiliation with PC(USA) began in 2011 when the American body passed Amendment 10a, which allowed presbyteries to ordain openly gay clergy.

“After a debate that began in 2011 … our church, that had initially decided to continue in partnership, in this last General Assembly, made the decision to interrupt the official partnership with this beloved church,” stated IPIB.

“Despite this notable contribution to the expansion of God’s Kingdom in the world and especially in Brazil, our church has understood that the recent decisions made by the PC(USA) are against the principle of the authority of Scripture over the life and faith of the Church, as well as the confessional documents of our common Reformed heritage.”