Major Congregation Exits Denomination Amid Leadership Controversy
In an unexpected turn of events, St. Andrew’s Chapel, a prominent church in Sanford, Florida, has decided to part ways with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) after a brief two-year affiliation. Founded by the respected theologian R.C. Sproul, the congregation’s decision came after a significant majority voted in favor of leaving the denomination.
During a congregational meeting held earlier this week, the church’s 1,100-strong membership cast their votes, with 669 in favor and 108 against the motion to “dissolve its ecclesiastical connection with the Central Florida Presbytery.” This decision was formally communicated to the PCA’s Central Florida Presbytery by the stated clerk of the session.
The church elders explained their decision in a statement to byFaith, the PCA’s online magazine. “On December 14, 2025, Saint Andrew’s Chapel held a congregational meeting in accordance with BCO 25-2 and 25-11 to decide whether to withdraw from the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA),” they stated.
The statement continued, “After the Session provided an update and recommendation, the congregation voted by paper ballot to withdraw, with 669 in favor and 108 against. As a result, Saint Andrew’s Chapel is no longer affiliated with the PCA, and the Central Florida Presbytery has been duly informed.”
Gratitude for their experiences with the PCA was expressed by the church elders, emphasizing their commitment to Reformed theology and the church’s core mission. They remarked, “We gratefully acknowledge the support from many within the PCA and value the faithful members of the denomination who have contributed to our shared commitment to Reformed theology. We recognize the range of emotions during this significant transition and remain committed to shepherding with care, maintaining the peace and purity of the Church, and proclaiming the Gospel.”
They concluded with trust in divine guidance: “We trust Jesus Christ, as King and Head of the church, to guide, lead, and protect His flock as we live each day coram Deo [before the face of God].”
This move comes amid a leadership controversy, as Rev. Burk Parsons, the senior pastor, was suspended from the pulpit earlier this year. Parsons faced allegations involving unkind conduct, autocratic leadership, and accusations against other church leaders, leading to a guilty verdict from a church judicial commission, which he later contested.
According to a Dec. 5 letter seen by MinistryWatch, the decision to expedite the withdrawal process was prompted by “significant and sobering developments” within the Central Florida Presbytery. The letter alleged that unauthorized information about the church’s internal matters was leaked to the media by “an unknown [Central Florida Presbytery] teaching elder,” which the session claimed harmed the church’s leadership and reputation.
Looking ahead, St. Andrew’s Chapel plans to maintain an independent status while exploring potential alliances with other Reformed bodies for mutual support and accountability, all firmly rooted in the Westminster Standards, according to MinistryWatch.
The church, however, did not provide further comments when approached by The Christian Post. R.C. Sproul, the church’s founder, left a lasting legacy in Reformed theology through his founding of Ligonier Ministries, which continues to influence theological education and discourse.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
