How is the Presbyterian church governed?
The overall church structure consists of four (4) governing bodies: General Assembly: The national governing body is made up of equal numbers of lay people and clergy chosen by the Presbyteries. Synod: Representatives are elected from each Presbytery to oversee several Presbyteries. Presbytery: Elders and ministers from congregations who oversee the local churches. Session: The local governing body. Ordained ministers (ministers of the Word) and elders–all elected by the congregation.