I was raised Presbyterian back when they actually stood for something and had standards we were expected to follow. Between then and now they've morphed into something which my mother, who still attends there occasionally, tells me I wouldn't recognize at all.
She is uncomfortable with the new friendliness, the more open interaction between congregation members, and between the pastor and the congregation, the instruction to turn and greet your neighbors, things like that. She's used to things being more formal. I think I would have liked those changes as it was pretty cold and sterile when I was a child. I don't know if they have very many do's and don'ts anymore. Smoking and drinking were never an issue for them, so probably still aren't much of a concern.
They've also stopped having the strict dress code we had, with the hat, gloves, etc. Now she doesn't even own a dress. Apparently nobody cares. Many Presbyterian churches are "come as you are", believing that it's better to have people come and enjoy worship and fellowship however they are dressed than to feel left out because they don't have the right clothes or are on vacation and didn't bring nice things to wear.
They have a good Sunday School, divided by ages. The children are taught excellent songs. Communion was with grape juice, not wine. Probably still is. It was for all members who had been through Confirmation classes and been confirmed. Confirmation was at age 12. Baptism was by sprinkling and usually infants.
My mother's church put an ad in the paper inviting gays to attend there, promising them a welcoming environment. My mother is all in favor of that. She attended some sort of a committment ceremony between some gay couples, but I'm not sure if that was in the Presbyterian church or another. Sorry, but that creeps me out.
Let us know how it goes when you check it out for yourself. Good luck in your search for a new church home. There's lots to choose from, so enjoy the journey!
SusanHere
