As the new year begins, here are five topics to keep your eye on in the PCA over the next 12 months.
1. Christian Nationalism
Christian Nationalism remains a hot discussion topic, and two presbyteries have asked the General Assembly to establish a study committee to examine it. According to their overture, “there has been recent teaching … as to the nature of this relationship between the church and the civil magistrate, which have caused confusion, division, and dissension.” The overture requests the Assembly to establish a committee to examine the teachings of Christian Nationalism for their conformity to the Westminster Standards. The committee would also provide pastoral guidance to churches.
2. New RUF Coordinator
It is likely that Reformed University Fellowship will name a new coordinator in 2025. The current coordinator, Will Huss, announced his resignation in August 2024 and is set to leave his position on June 27, 2025, after six years in the role. The permanent committee has begun its search for the next coordinator. RUF is currently the only PCA committee or agency searching for a new president or coordinator.
3. “Jesus Calling” Returns
When the 52nd General Assembly convenes in Chattanooga, “Jesus Calling” will again be on the docket. The Assembly is expected to receive responses from Mission to the World and the Committee on Discipleship Ministries regarding their connections with the book and its author, the late Sarah Young. When the overture passed the previous Assembly, it garnered much attention both inside and outside the denomination.
4. MNA Ministry Reorganization
Mission to North America is reorganizing its ministries to align with its sharpened focus on church planting and vitality. The permanent committee is expected to announce which ministries will continue under MNA and which will transition to a recommended ministry status.
5. Pastoral Searches
Three of the largest churches in the PCA are actively looking for senior pastors: Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, and Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia. Historically, all three congregations have played influential roles in the PCA and their respective cities. We don’t know exactly when these churches will choose their next senior ministers, but it seems likely that some name candidates in the coming year.
Of course, only the Lord knows what the year will bring. If previous years are any indication, issues and events will emerge that are not on anyone’s list, and some of the stories we expect to cover might not materialize. But we will continue to look in faith to the God who has been our help in ages past and will be our hope for years to come.