Presbyterians trace a rich history from the 16th century and the Protestant Reformation triggered by Martin Luther. Our heritage is deeply steeped in the apostolic faith of the church fathers, developed through the ministry and writings of many pastor-scholars in conversation with the whole catholic tradition, both Latin and Greek. The most prominent among them was probably John Calvin (1509-1564), whose writings crystallized much of the Reformed thinking that came before him.

The term "Presbyterian" comes from the Greek word for "elder." The church's guidance under a plurality of elders reflects our understanding that the Christian faith is communal and not solo. Just as every believer is connected to other members of Christ's body (1 Corinthians 12:12), so are the leaders accountable to one another, as is each local church connected and accountable to the broader body. This is our small attempt to practice the grand reality of the church's catholicity and unity in Christ.

The Reformed tradition is confessional, uniting around a common system of doctrine. Presbyterian churches have historically adopted the Westminster Standards (The Confession of Faith, in addition to the Shorter and Larger Catechisms) as faithful summaries of the Biblical faith.

The Chinese Presbyterian Church of Oakland is connected with the Presbytery of San Francisco of the Presbyterian Church (USA)