Why ECO?

I have blogged a bit about our dismissal from the PC(USA). Most of the previous posts have addressed why we are leaving, but not much has been said about why we are going to The Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians, (ECO). Simply put, ECO is a better fit for us for several reasons.

ECO has a distinct theological identity. ECO is clear and unapologetic in its commitment to the historic Christian and Reformed doctrine. It recognizes the confessional statements that comprise the current Book of Confessions. But, it summarizes the essential doctrine of those confessions in its statement on Essential Tenets, which can be found here. Membership in ECO means that we uphold these Essential Tenets. Membership in ECO means that we expect to be held, and to hold one another, accountable to those tenets.

ECO revitalizes the connectional system so basic to Presbyterianism. Affiliation with the ECO places us in covenant relationships of accountability that will make us a better church. For example, local churches are formed together in Mission Accountability Groups (4-5 churches) that meet together to share best practices, encourage one another, and to hold one another accountable to being missional churches. One instrument Mission Accountability Groups will use is, “The Narrative On the Health Of Mission and Ministry.” It’s not just churches that are held accountable to one another. Pastors also meet in Pastor Accountability Groups. Pastors will use an accountability instrument called “The Pastoral Rule”. ECO has all of the basic polity pieces expected of a Presbyterian/Reformed church, but these additional practices present a more rigorous way of life.

ECO’s mission and vision resonate with our mission and vision. For example, FPC is serious about making disciples of Jesus, which is why we had the Apprenticeship Conference last summer. The first question of ECO’s, “The Narrative On the Health Of Mission and Ministry”, asks this question: “How has the Holy Spirit been evident in your congregation in the past year; through conversions, growth in the fruit of the Spirit, or other transformational experiences that make disciples of Jesus Christ?” That’s a good question for a church like ours. Also, FPC believes that growth in Christian maturity leads us out beyond the walls of the church in mission to a lost, hurting, and dying world, which is why we go to Burnet School, Mullins, West Virginia, and Haiti. The second question of the narrative asks, “How has your congregation extended itself beyond its bounds through the establishment of new communities of worship and discipleship, expanding the Kingdom of God?” Again, ECO’s priorities match ours as well.

Just these two examples highlight what a good fit the ECO is for us. Our congregation’s chief focus is growing in Christ and sending people in mission for Christ. ECO offers a denominational affiliation that will help us stay “on mission” rather than serve as a distraction.