Home
Contact Us
Newsletter
Calendar
Committees
Churches
Supply Ministers
Mission Communities
Resources
OlderAdultMin
Youth Council
Links |
Archives
Presbytery
Council Minutes
Click on date: 7/07 , 10/07 , 1/08,
4/08 , 7/08
Presbytery Council met on Tuesday, July 15, 2008, beginning at 10:00 with
devotions led by the Rev. Ann R. Held.
Members present were:
Jonathan Bunker, Council Chair
Charlotte Hott, Council Vice-Chair
Ron Wilkes, Presbytery Moderator
Ann Held, Presbytery Vice-Moderator
Pamela Chamblin, Eastern Panhandle
Ed Brown, Eastern Panhandle
Lisa Webb, Mountain Valley
Sandi Ey, Mountain Valley
Ramona Sanders, Central Valley
John Sloop, Central Valley
Pat Klumpp, Highland-Augusta
Dan Williams, Highland-Augusta
Barbara Johnson, Nominating Chair
Ron Potter, Office & Pers. Chair
Martin Stokes, Communications Chair
Mimi Moring, PW Moderator
Joel Thornton, Church Development
Homer Cornish, World Wide Min. Chair
Harriet Thompson, Resource Chair
Office Staff:
Jan Owen, Stated Clerk
Lucille Gohdes, Treasurer
Doug Sensabaugh, Communications Coord
Lisa Hedrick, Resource Coordinator
Kim Stroupe, Asst for Constitution
The Rev. Phil Sommer was present representing the Divestment Task Force.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to give Phil voice on the floor.
The minutes of April 15, 2008 were approved as distributed.
MISSION COMMUNITY REPORTS
Central Valley – submitted a written report
Eastern Panhandle – submitted a written report
Highland-Augusta – have not met since last Council meeting.
58 folks will be travelling to Baja this month.
Maury River – two ministers have left the area to take
other calls.
Mountain Valley – submitted a written report
Potomac Highlands – meeting monthly with worship.
STAFF REPORTS
Stated Clerk – Jan Owen gave a brief verbal report.
Treasurer – Lucille Gohdes reported that $354 was received
from the Hebron Church directing the Council to determine its use. The
Council is most sure that those funds are what were collected during the
offering of the May 13 Presbytery Meeting held at Hebron Church. The
Presbytery Body approved on May 13 to send the offering to PDA for flood relief.
In case these are not the same funds, a motion was made, seconded and approved
to send the $354 to PDA for flood relief.
In follow-up from Council’s directive to contact an attorney to produce
an agreement between Shenandoah Presbytery and Camp Paddy Run, the particular
lawyer that was suggested has not responded to communications from Lucille.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to contact the pastor of Winchester
First Church for a suggested member within First Church that would be willing
to perform this service.
Resource Coordinator – Lisa Hedrick gave a brief verbal
report.
Communications Coordinator/Hunger Action Enabler – Doug
Sensabaugh reminded everyone that phone extensions have changed in the Presbytery
Office as well as office reshuffling with the Stated Clerk’s office moving
upstairs. Doug will be travelling with Martin Stokes to Ethiopia August
5-28 to lead communications and computer training in Addis, including setting
up a wireless network.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Budget & Finance – received a written report regarding
the first reading of the 2009 budget.
Church Development – Joel Thornton reminded everyone
of the Magnetic Church Conference November 14-15 at Opequon Church with keynote
speaker Andy Weeks. Brochures will be circulated as well as information
on www.shenpres.org.
Communications – Martin Stokes reported on the successful
Front Page Workshops led by Patrick Lanaghan with 28 churches represented.
Nominations – Barb Johnson submitted a written report
that includes requests for elders to fill vacancies on various committees
that will occur in 2009. Charlotte Hott was asked to obtain a male elder
to fill a vacancy on the Nominating Committee.
Office & Personnel – Ron Potter reported that the
Presbytery Office is in need of a part-time person for when Cheri Bowman is
out of the office.
Presbyterian Women – submitted a written report.
Professional Development – working on a 2009 event with
keynote speaker Brian McLaren from the Emergent Church.
Paddy Run Outdoor Ministries – submitted a written report.
World Wide Ministries – submitted a written report.
The Committee recommends that Council ask the Presbytery to approve a Mission
Season in February with an offering and a goal to raise $50,000 (less than
$3 per member) in support of a new position for Agricultural Development in
the Mekane Yesus Church in Ethiopia. A motion was made, seconded and
approved to refer the recommendation back to the Committee for further consideration.
The committee also recommends that Council approve distributing at the August
23 meeting of Presbytery the document “An Invitation to Expanding Partnership
in God’s Mission” for study by all churches. The committee also recommends
that Council award $500 to the best mission display at the November Presbytery
meeting in the event that the Moffett Grant monies are not made available.
This was defeated
TASK FORCE ON INVESTMENT POLICY
A written report was circulated and the Rev. Phil Sommer spoke on behalf
of the Task Force. Other members of the Task Force include Elders Amy
Diduch, Ann Grisdale, and Jeff Zoller; ministers Carl Howard, Rob Hill and
Beth Pyles; Roller Shipplett from the Shenandoah Presbytery Corporation; and
Tom Hay, General Presbyter.
A motion was made, seconded, and approved for Council to forward the report
of the Presbytery Council Divestment Task Force to Shenandoah Presbytery for
a first reading at the August Stated Meeting, with action to be taken at
the November Stated Meeting.
A motion was made, seconded, and approved to request the stated clerk to
send a letter of appreciation to each member of Task Force for their diligence
and service.
TASK FORCE ON PRESBYTERY MEETING PLANNING
The Council approved and will recommend to the August 23 Presbytery the
following Manual change:
4.3.4. Presbytery Meeting Planning Team
A. Membership:
The immediate past Moderator of Presbytery (serving as chair), the current
Moderator of Presbytery (serving as liaison to Council), the current Vice-Moderator
of Presbytery, the Stated Clerk, the Assistant to the Constitution, three
at-large members who would serve in three separate classes of three years
each to provide for the representation of the following gifts, skills, and
responsibilities with the Presbytery: music, education, and lay pastors.
The Resource Coordinator, General Presbyter, and Hunger Action Enabler would
serve as ex-officio members.
B. Duties:
• To provide vision long range and logistical planning
for stated and called meetings of Shenandoah Presbytery, which would include
the recommendation of the presbytery meeting sites while seeking balance among
geographic localities;
• To introduce educational opportunities, themed agendas,
guest speakers as appropriate to the benefit of the larger presbytery;
• To provide for worship at each meeting and, at least
annually, for a roundtable worship and communion opportunity modeled after
the Westminster-Canterbury April 2006 meeting of Shenandoah Presbytery;
• To consult with host churches well in advance to ensure
that space and meeting format are coordinated;
• To set agendas for meetings of Presbytery and to provide
support to the Assistant to the Constitution for visiting host churches, finalizing
plans and coordinating meeting needs with host church representatives;
• To provide for appropriate evaluation and refinement
of Presbytery meeting experiences to ensure the good stewardship of the Presbytery
commissioners, staff and host churches time and resources.
PAY DAY LENDING TASK FORCE
In accordance with the charge given by the presbytery council, the task
force met at Presbytery’s Office on July 14, 2008. There were 10 persons
present including representatives from the Virginia Interfaith Center Council.
We watched the video on payday loans. Several very helpful documents
were also distributed. After a lengthy discussion, we agreed to make the following
recommendations to council:
1) Distribute
copies of the Payday Loans video to each of the mission communities and encourage
them to use it as an educational event for the churches within their community.
2) Send
an announcement to the Key Church Communicators concerning the upcoming August
6 meeting of the VA Interfaith Center Council in which the topic of payday
loans will be discussed.
3) Seek
ways in which we can continue to educate, update, and encourage involvement
by Christians in our communities in the issues surrounding legislation concerning
Pay Lending.
NEW BUSINESS
Received a request for by-law changes for the Westminster Foundation Inc.
The following changes were approved:
Article I, Section 5, Location: address updated to show 3218 Chamberlayne
Ave., Richmond VA 23227
Reason: The Presbytery of the James bookkeeper also serves
as bookkeeper for the Foundation. The Presbytery Office moved its location
last year.
Article II, Section 3, Advisors: Delete the number three in the first
sentence and replace with the number four.
Reason: The board would like to be able to add
a fourth advisory member if geographical distribution or presbytery involvement
seems to call for this.
*********
GA Commissioner Dan Williams gave a verbal report on the 218th meeting held
June 2008 in San Jose, CA. The following motion was made, seconded and
approved:
2008 AUTHORITATIVE INTERPRETATION – G-6.0108
RECOMMENDATION
That in response to the recent action of the 218th GA in adopting another
Authoritative Interpretation (AI) on G¬6.0108, COM be requested
to clarify that, as things now stand constitutionally, the previous action
of Shenandoah Presbytery taken in January 2008 is unaffected by this recent
GA action. If possible, this clarification should be reported to the
August meeting of Shenandoah Presbytery.
RATIONALE
In January 2008, Shenandoah Presbytery responded to the Peace, Unity and
Purity Report by adopting the following statement: “Ordaining and/or installing
bodies, in determining their membership, are required to uphold all the standards
of the Constitution and of essential Reformed theology.”
At the recent 218th GA meeting, another Authoritative Interpretation (AI)
was adopted to clarify the 2006 AI on G-6.0108 (PUP Report Recommendation
#5), in light of a recent GAPJC decision that stated what the Presbytery statement
affirms: that behavior in reference to ordination standards could not be
scrupled.
To many, the new AI is as confusing as the previous one that it affirms
and amplifies. However, emerging opinion seems to be that nothing of
substance has changed, as long as the current text of G-6.0106b remains in
the Book of Order. This would support the understanding that the action
Shenandoah Presbytery took in reference to the 2006 AI (PUP-5) has neither
been altered, suspended, or rendered of no effect.
Nevertheless, for the sake of clarity, we believe some official statement
needs to be made that confirms this understanding for the entire presbytery,
and her sessions. Since COM ordinarily deals with examination issues
for ordination and installations, they seem to be the logical group to do
this.
A motion was made, seconded and approved that the current Presbytery Moderator
and Vice-Moderator, Council chair and vice-chair, Stated Clerk, General Presbyter
and GA Commissioner Dan Williams meet before the October Council meeting to
discuss matters arising from the 218th General Assembly.
The next meeting of Council will be October 14 at 10:00 with Harriet to
lead devotions.
The meeting adjourned at 2:14 with prayer by Jonathan Bunker.
Submitted by,
Kim Stroupe, Recording Clerk
|
The Presbytery
Council met on Tuesday, April 15, convening at 10:07 a.m. at the Presbytery
Office. Members present were:
Jonathan Bunker, Council Chair
Charlotte Hott, Council Vice-Chair
Ron Wilkes, Presbytery Moderator
Ann Held, Presbytery Vice-Moderator
Mimi Moring, Presbyterian Women Moderator
Wray Sherman, Budget & Finance Chair
Joel Thorton, Church Development Rep
Kathleen Haines, Higher Education/Campus Ministry
Ron Potter, Office & Personnel Chair
Ann Pettit, Professional Dev. Chair
Homer T. Cornish, World Wide Ministries Chair
Ed Brown, Eastern Panhandle Rep
Ramona Sanders, Central Valley Rep
John Sloop, Central Valley Rep
Dan Williams, Highland-Augusta Rep
Martin Stokes, Maury River Rep and Communications Chair
Joan Wilson, Mtn Valley Rep
Barbara Johnson, Potomac Highlands Rep and Nominations Chair
Staff:
Thomas D. Hay, General Presbyter
Philip Sieck, Stated Clerk
Lisa Hedrick, Resource Coordinator
Doug Sensabaugh, HAE/Communications
Jonathan Bunker welcomed Mimi Moring, the new Presbyterian Women Moderator
and Jan Owen, the Stated Clerk candidate. The Council voted
to give Jan Owen voice at the meeting.
Charlotte Hott opened the meeting with prayer and devotions.
Barbara Johnson was approved as the substitute secretary.
AGENDA
The printed agenda was approved for the day.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of January 15, 2008, were approved as distributed.
MISSION COMMUNITY REPORTS
Central Valley – Ramona Sanders submitted a written
report highlighting the Disaster Response Training, pulpit exchange, upcoming
Third Annual Cookout and Clean Up Day at Camp Massanetta Springs.
The next meeting of the mission community will be Thursday, May 1, 2:00
p.m. at Harrisonburg First Presbyterian Church.
Eastern Panhandle – Ed Brown submitted a written report
noting that Charles Town Church has increased their 4 cents a meal program
to 6 cents a meal due to rising food costs and several churches have had
an increased in membership.
Highland Augusta – Dan Williams stated the meeting will
be in two days. Currently 62 people are going on the Baja Mission
trip with room for 8 more. $3000 was raised at Applebee’s for the
trip.
Maury River – Martin Stokes reported a pulpit
swap and plans for a Youth Rally May 18, a Community Hymn Sing on June 1,
a Mission Trip to DC August 13- 17 and Disaster Response Training.
A Living Waters challenge contribution of 90 cents per person per year is
being made.
Mountain Valley – Joan Wilson submitted a written report
noting the Spring Mission Community Fellowship Event will be moved to the
fall, a special dinner and program with Bruce and Lora Whearty will be Sunday,
April 27, and the next meeting of the mission community will be May 8, 7:00,
at Warrenton Church.
Potomac Highlands – Barb Johnson reported that a worship
service began a meeting of productive planning. The picnic will
be held in June.
STAFF REPORTS
General Presbyter – Tom Hay reported Kim Stroupe is
temporarily filling the bookkeeper position in addition to other duties.
Candidates for the vacant positions of stated clerk and bookkeeper have
been found. Tom shared about his attendance at Woodstock for the baptism
of several developmental challenged members of the congregation.
Stated Clerk – Philip Sieck shared a letter from the
General Assembly Clerk thanking Shenandoah Presbytery for support of per capita
and including brochures about GA per capita. Phil reported the status
of the various commissions functioning in the Presbytery. He reported
on three requests to speak at a Presbytery meeting: Children’s Home of the
Highlands at Wytheville, the Lynchburg-based Presbyterian Children’s Home,
and from Jason Whitener for a National Guard representative to present the
need for chaplains.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to give authority to the Presbytery
Planning Committee to contact the two Children’s Homes and schedule both
for the May meeting or schedule one for May and one for a later meeting.
A motion was made in response to a request made by Jason Whitner, pastor
of Tinkling Spring Presbyterian Church, seconded and approved to invite
the National Guard representative to have a display at the May meeting and
talk to interested individuals during lunch, with an email prior to the
meeting letting ministers know of the presence of the representative at
the meeting.
Phil read a letter from Rose Niles, Associate for Theological Education
and Seminary Relations, stating the need for an advocate for the Theological
Education Resource Fund
A motion was made, seconded and approved to send the request to the Nominating
Committee.
Phil shared a communication from the South Louisiana Presbytery reporting
on the use of PDA funds designated for Katrina relief.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to have the report included in
the packet at the May Presbytery meeting.
Treasurer – No Report
Resource Coordinator – Lisa Hedrick reported that ‘Weed
and Seed’ –pulling old unhelpful resources and replacing with newer more
pertinent materials – was occurring. The Christian Educator Group
is growing and doing well.
Communications/HAE – Doug Sensabaugh gave a tour of
the Presbytery Website which he has been encouraged to repeat at the May
Presbytery meeting.
PAY DAY LOAN DISCUSSION/MOTION
Nancy Summerlin a student from Union-PSCE shared the history and present
status of Pay Day Loans in Virginia. The VA Interfaith Center on Public
Policy is the actual lobbying body but churches can work to contact local
legislators and by educating people about alternative financial
resources.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to appoint a task force to study
the PC(USA) document about usury alternative suggestions and make recommendations
to Council for possible action by the Presbytery, reporting no later than
the fall meeting. The Council chair, the General Presbyter and the
Presbytery Moderator will appoint the task force.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Professional Development – Ann Pettit reported the committee
will meet next week about WV fund loans and planning future events.
PRESBYTERY MEETING TASK FORCE
Ann Pettit reported work continues in preparing recommendations.
Budget & Finance – Wray Sherman submitted a written
report.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to send to Presbytery the recommendation
for the disposition of a $20,000 budget surplus for 2007 in the amounts
to follow $10,000 to be given to the Shenandoah Presbytery Youth Council
to Fund the 2008 Montreat Youth Conference Trip, $6,550 for Office Equipment
(update of the phone system) and $3,500 to the Personnel Committee for flexibility
in staffing needs.
Campus Ministry – nothing to report
Church Development – Joe Thornton submitted a written
report for information with action requests that will be presented at the
May presbytery meeting.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to reestablish solicitations for
the Barnabas Fund.
Communications – Martin Stokes reported the Committee
met April 12. Doug Sensabaugh videotaped Bob Goshorn presenting the
History of Shenandoah Presbytery. The first church website workshop
went very well. No cost hosting of church websites will continue at
least through 2008.
Funds Administration – no report
Nominations – Barb Johnson reported the need for two
additional people on the committee which needed to be approved by Council.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to delegate John Sloop, representative
of the Central Valley Mission Community and Martin Stokes representative
of Maury River Mission Community to appoint someone from each of their respective
mission communities to the committee.
Stewardship Education Resource Team – no report
Office & Personnel – Ron Potter reported that Heather
Carter of the Slanesville Presbyterian Church had been hired as Bookkeeper
and would start next week.
A motion was made, seconded and approved for Council to recommend to Presbytery
the nomination of Jan Owen as Stated Clerk.
Presbyterian Women – Mimi Moring reported the PW Spring
Retreat at Massanetta was a great success. The Summer Gathering
at Massanetta will be June 12-15.
iCare – Mimi Moring stated members and sponsors are
needed.
Presbytery Planning –The Committee will meet following
today’s Council meeting to prepare the docket for the May 13 Stated Presbytery
Meeting.
Paddy Run Outdoor Ministries – received a written report
for information.
.
Resource – no report
Vision and Mission – no report
Worldwide Ministries – Homer Cornish submitted a written
report for information, including the fact that only 19 churches have not
turned in their Mission Questionnaires. Kathleen Haines reported on
the status of the trip to Ethiopia to teach English.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to recommend that the Presbytery
portion of the Peacemaking offering go to Living Waters team projects.
OLD BUSINESS
The Task Force on Investment Policy had its first meeting and will be reporting
in the future.
NEW BUSINESS
Request from SPYCE for Shenandoah Presbytery to join with the Presbytery
of the James in petitioning the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic to fund the Youth
Leadership Conference that had occurred in previous years.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to make the petition.
The meeting adjourned at 1:30 with prayer by the Rev. Jan Owen.
Next meeting: Tuesday July 15, 2008, beginning at
10:00 a.m.
Submitted
by,
Barbara R. Johnson, Secretary Pro-Tem
|
The Presbytery Council met on Tuesday, January 15, convening at 10:00
a.m. at the Presbytery Office. Members present were:
Jonathan Bunker, Council Chair
Charlotte Hott, Council Vice-Chair
Robert S. Osborne, Presbytery Moderator
Ron Wilkes, Presbytery Vice-Moderator
Wray Sherman, Budget & Finance Chair
Candi Vernon, Office & Personnel Chair
Harriet Thompson, Resource Committee Chair
Linda Livick, Presbyterian Women Moderator
Ann Pettit, Professional Dev. Chair
Kathleen Haines, Campus Ministry
Homer T. Cornish, World Wide Ministries Chair
Barbara Johnson, Potomac Highlands Rep and Nominations Chair
Ed Brown, Eastern Panhandle Rep
Lisa Webb, Mtn Valley Rep
Joan Wilson, Mtn Valley Rep
Ramona Sanders, Central Valley Rep
John Sloop, Central Valley Rep
Dan Williams, Highland-Augusta Rep
Pat Klumpp, Highland-Augusta Rep
Martin Stokes, Maury River Rep and Communications Chair
Staff:
Philip Sieck, Stated Clerk
Lucille Gohdes, Treasurer
Lisa Hedrick, Resource Coordinator
Doug Sensabaugh, HAE/Communications
Kim Stroupe, Assistant for Constitution
Jonathan Bunker opened the meeting with prayer and devotions.
Introductions were made.
AGENDA
The printed agenda was approved for the day with several additions.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of October 16, 2007, were approved as distributed.
DIVESTITURE RESOLUTION/MOTION DISCUSSION
At the November 13, 2007, meeting of Presbytery, the Body received a written
resolution/motion from the Rev. Beth Pyles regarding divestment of holdings
in Lockheed Martin by the Shenandoah Presbytery Corporation while asking
the Corporation to adopt policies in accordance with the Mission Responsibility
Through Investment Committee of the General Assembly. The motion was
referred to the Presbytery Council for review. Denominational guidelines
regarding faith-based investing were circulated as well as a written response
from the Corporation President, Donald Myers. The Council welcomed
Beth Pyles to the meeting to answer any questions the group may have.
Beth opened the discussion with prayer and then informed the Council of the
background of the resolution/motion. The floor was opened for questions.
A motion was made and seconded to appoint a task force of knowledgeable
members to study the proposed motion, engage in a deliberate procedure to
discuss the proposed divestiture and other investments, and then make a
recommendation to the Council. The task force is instructed to report
back to the summer meeting of Council with a Council recommendation forthcoming
to the August Presbytery meeting. After discussion the motion was approved.
The Council chair, the Stated Clerk, the General Presbyter and the Presbytery
Moderator will appoint the task force.
PRESBYTERY MEETING TASK FORCE
Harriet Thompson, Task Force moderator, reported. After evaluating
prior presbytery meeting evaluations, reviewing the particular November 13,
2007, presbytery meeting evaluations, and meeting with the General Presbyter
to discuss other presbytery-model meetings, the task force circulated a written
report with several ideas for Council’s consideration. The Task Force
will continue its work bringing back recommendations to the Council in manual
format.
STRONG MINISTERS PROGRAM
Olivia Haney, chair of the program, presented a change to the current
policy. (additions underlined) Under Section II GENERAL GRANTS: Continuing
education grants for ministers: Up to $3,000/year maximum each year.
Available after three full years of installed service in the same call within
Shenandoah Presbytery. The amendment was approved and will be recommended
to the February 2008 meeting of Presbytery.
MISSION COMMUNITY REPORTS
Central Valley – Ramona Sanders submitted a written
report highlighting new Massanetta Springs Camp Director, Seth Flory; 22
folks are in Gulfport, Mississippi on a missions trip; educational training-presbytery
disaster response team meeting March 9; pulpit exchange April 27, pending
session approval; third annual cookout June 14 at 5:00; and clean-up day
at Camp Massanetta May 8, 9:00. The next meeting of the mission community
will be Thursday, March 6, 2:00 p.m. at Cooks Creek Church.
Eastern Panhandle – Ed Brown submitted a written report
noting that the mission community has a one-page advertisement with The Journal
and that money has been allocated for the purchase of a wheel carrier for
travel which will be housed at Tabler Church.
Highland Augusta – Dan Williams submitted a written
report for information.
Mountain Valley – Joan Wilson submitted a written report
noting the new convener is Randy Webb; $10,839 has been given to the Wheartys
for mission work in Ethiopia; investigating mission trips to the Gulf; and
the next meeting of the mission community will be Thursday, March 13, 7:00,
at First Winchester Church.
Maury River – no report
Potomac Highlands – Barb Johnson reported that active
members, Paul and Laura Smith, will be moving to Pennsylvania.
STAFF REPORTS
General Presbyter – Tom Hay presented a facilitator
training overview for the small group discussions that will take place at
the called meeting of Presbytery on January 29, 2008.
Stated Clerk – Philip Sieck circulated a document titled
CASES, COUNSELS, AND COMMISSIONS IN OPERATION and spoke to each ongoing occurrence.
Philip circulated a document titled PRESBYTERY MANUAL that seeks to bring
clarity to the current Manual. Philip alerted the group that he has
submitted his resignation as stated clerk effective February 9, 2008.
Treasurer – Lucille Gohdes continues work on identifying
the grants and funds of the Presbytery.
Resource Coordinator – Lisa Hedrick reported she and
Harriet Thompson will be attending APCE (Association of Presbyterian Church
Educators) in San Diego February 13-16. Lisa is currently working
on revamping the Fruits of the Spirit newsletter to make it more of an educational
piece.
Communications/HAE – Doug Sensabaugh alerted the group
of the upcoming National Multicultural Conference April 10-13, in San Antonio,
Texas in addition to the Fifth Annual Ethiopia Mission Network Conference
April 24-26 in Washington, D.C. Doug reminded everyone of the recent
prayer request from the Illubabor Bethel Synod as they prepare for their
10th Annual Convention. IBS is currently looking for more church-to-church
partnerships. Doug report the 2007 4 cents a meal funds that came to
the office was $81,556, though a good amount the second lowest in five years.
All area food banks and pantries are in need of items as well as monetary
donations. Encourage congregations to not only bring canned food for
Souper Bowl Sunday, but also $5 (a food bank can turn 1 dollar into 7 dollars
worth of food). Doug concluded his report with prayer for the upcoming
IBS Convention.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Budget & Finance – Wray Sherman submitted a written
report. A motion was made, seconded and approved that all future mileage
reimbursement for Presbytery business (committee meeting travel, staff travel,
etc) be reimbursed using the current IRS standard mileage rate.
The committee received the following two requests concerning 2007 carryover
funds:
1) That Presbytery staff be allowed to use $2000 from
their 2007 travel budget for 2008 travel.
2) That the Partnership Committee be able to use $2638
in unspent travel funds for 2008 Ethiopia travel.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to approve the two carryover
requests. It was suggested to the committee to consider a policy for
carryover funds.
Campus Ministry – nothing to report
Nominations – nothing to report
Office & Personnel – Candi Vernon reported the
committee will be meeting with the entire office staff on January 22, for
their annual review followed by lunch. The Stated Clerk job description
will be posted on the web site.
Paddy Run Outdoor Ministries – received a written report
from the Director, Amy Tubbs. It was noted that the Rev. Doug Sterrett
donated a truck to the camp.
Communications – Martin Stokes reported the committee
met January 12. Goals for 2008 include recognizing KCCs at a presbytery
meeting, software training, planning ways for Shenandoah Presbytery to host
web sites for churches, offer a daily devotional to all members with churches
or pastors agreeing to write a 5-day period of devotions to be shared via
email each week of the year, and a map of the Presbytery on the web site
showing locations of churches.
Church Development – submitted a written report for
information.
Stewardship Education Resource Team – no report
Presbyterian Women – Linda Livick reported that blanket
Sunday is coming up and the group is busy preparing for the Spring Gathering
April 5, where a new moderator will be installed. Linda reported that
Staunton Second member, Pam Snyder, has been selected to represent the Presbyterian
Women of the United States at the 52nd session of the Commission on the Status
of Women February 25-March 7 at the UN Headquarters in New York City.
Presbytery Planning – The Council approved serving
communion at the Called meeting of Presbytery on January 29, 2008.
The Committee will meet following today’s Council meeting to prepare the
docket for the February 9 Stated Presbytery Meeting.
Professional Development – nothing to report
Worldwide Ministries – Homer Cornish submitted a written
report for information.
NEW BUSINESS
The Council has received a communication from Nancy Summerlin concerning
pay-day loans in Virginia. A motion was made, seconded and approved
to extend an invitation to Ms. Summerlin for a presentation at the April
15 meeting of Council.
The meeting adjourned at 2:00 with prayer by the Rev. Lisa Webb.
Next meeting: Tuesday April 15, 2008, beginning at
10:00 a.m.
Submitted by,
Kim T. Stroupe |
The Presbytery Council met on Tuesday, October 16, convening at 10:00
a.m. at the Presbytery Office. Members present were:
Mark Davis, Council Chair
Jonathan Bunker, Council Vice-Chair
Robert S. Osborne, Presbytery Moderator
Ron Wilkes, Presbytery Vice-Moderator
Wray Sherman, Budget & Finance
Candi Vernon, Office & Personnel Chair
Harriet Thompson, Resource Chair
David Witt, Church Development
Ann Pettit, Professional Dev. Chair
Linda Livick, PW Moderator
Homer T. Cornish, World Wide Ministries Chair
Kathleen Haines, Higher Education
Barbara Johnson, Potomac Highlands Rep
Ed Brown, Eastern Panhandle Rep
Ramona Sanders, Central Valley Rep
John Sloop, Central Valley Rep
Dan Williams, Highland-Augusta Rep
Pat Klumpp, Highland-Augusta Rep
Martin Stokes, Maury River Rep
Staff:
Philip Sieck, Stated Clerk
Lucille Gohdes, Treasurer
Lisa Hedrick, Resource Coordinator
Doug Sensabaugh, HAE/Communications
Kim Stroupe, Assistant for Constitution
Mark Davis opened the meeting with prayer and devotions.
AGENDA
The printed agenda was approved for the day.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of July 17 were approved as distributed.
MISSION COMMUNITY REPORTS
Central Valley – Ramona Sanders submitted a written
report highlighting the following: Ramona Sanders was elected as convener
and Dr. John Sloop was elected as pastor representative to Council, gave
$3000 for 2008 Baja trip, $2000 for Gulfport trip, $1000 to the Lutheran-Presbyterian
Campus Ministry, and $300 for the third annual cookout. Planning a
catered meal October 29, 6:00 at First Harrisonburg for pastors, associate
pastors, elders, deacons, lay reps, and Presbytery staff.
Eastern Panhandle – Ed Brown submitted a written
report highlighting the following: Charles Town is celebrating their
220th Anniversary November 10 and 11; Little Falls held their first VBS
in 20 years with 17 students attending; Tuscarora has gone to two Sunday
morning services; First Martinsburg will host Dr. Donald and Wei Hong Snow
October 27. Next meeting will be November 20, 6:30 at Falling Waters
Church.
Highland Augusta – Dan Williams submitted
a written report highlighting the following: 60 people participated in
the 2007 Baja trip. The 2008 trip is scheduled for July 20-26.
Registration opened October 15 with 60 slots to be filled. Highland-Augusta
is hosting their second Presbytery meeting in 2007 on November 13 at Mt.
Horeb Church. Holding monthly lunches for ministers and other church
workers the first Wednesday of the month. (November 7 at Loch Willow
and December 5 at Tinkling Spring) Next mission community meeting will
be either January 10 or 17 at 6:30 p.m.
Mountain Valley – Joan Wilson submitted a written
report noting the Ethiopian Partnership Banquet at First Winchester November
2, Don Snow from China will be visiting and speaking in October, and that
PDA will sponsor youth mission trips in June and July 2008. Disaster
preparedness training is scheduled for February 17, 2:30 p.m. at Strasburg
Church. Warrenton Church is having a CROP walk October 21. Officer
training is scheduled for November 11, 3:00 at First Winchester. Next
meeting will be November 8 at Sherando Church.
Maury River - $2400 given toward the Windy Cove/Mission
Community Guatemala Mission trip, planning a one-day leadership training
October-November, a briefing on disaster response is scheduled for October
21 at 2:00 at Lexington Church, Collierstown hosting February 9, 2008, Presbytery
meeting. Next meeting January 27, 2:30 at Bethesda Church.
Potomac Highlands – Barb Johnson submitted a written
report.
STAFF REPORTS
Stated Clerk – Philip noted that an appraisal has
been submitted for the Poplar Hill property. The Commission is in
conversation with the New Beginnings congregation for possible purchase
of the property. The commission regarding the transfer of the Barton
and Lonaconing congregations are reviewing materials submitted by both churches
and will meet October 18 at First Martinsburg with representatives of Baltimore
Presbytery as well as representatives of both congregations.
Treasurer – Lucille circulated a document titled
“Grants and Fund Shenandoah Presbytery” which gives brief descriptions
of the funds and grants held by the Corporation.
Lucille noted that the auditors suggest having a memo in place between
Camp Paddy Run and the Presbytery, in addition to the current letter of
content dated March 2006. A motion was made, seconded and approved
to ask Phil Miller, the attorney for the Corporation, to draft the memo and
bring to the Council.
Resource Coordinator – Lisa reported the number of
users is growing and the collection is growing, hence the need to rearrange,
especially the sections of worship and spiritual growth.
Communications/HAE – Doug reported that registration
information for the Partnership Banquet can be found at http://shenpres.org/PartnershipBanquet.html
and the itinerary for our Illubabor guests can be found at http://shenpres.org/GuestsItinerary.pdf
. The Ethiopia Mission Network conference will be held April 24-26
at Western Presbyterian Church in Washington DC. For more info go to:
http://www.ethiopianetwork.org/2008Conference.html
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Budget & Finance – Wray Sherman submitted a copy
of the second reading of the 2008 Budget noting the amount required from
the operating reserve to balance the expenditure requests is $33,153.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to send the second reading of the
2008 budget to the November 13 Presbytery meeting.
Campus Ministry – Kathleen Haines submitted a written
report noting that over 75 names of students were collected at the August
Presbytery meeting. Kathleen recommends that as Advent and exam time
approaches, to be in prayer for college students away and to send them care
packages and an Advent devotional booklet.
Nomination – will be submitting nominees for the
2008 GA at the November 13 Presbytery meeting. It was noted that
two members will be rotating off the committee at the end of 2007.
(See New Business section)
Office & Personnel – nothing to report
Paddy Run Outdoor Ministries – no report
Communications – Martin Stokes submitted a written
report noting that a request was approved for the purchase of a digital
camera with accessories, gave $1000 to the Eastern Panhandle toward the
purchase of a projector and accessories, gave $170 to the Franklin/Ruddle/Upper
Tract churches for DSL service for one year, elected Martin Stokes chair
of the Committee.
Church Development – David Witt noted that he will
be the new chair beginning in 2008. A written report was submitted
noting the following: CCD partnered with the Committee on Ministry
in a study of the church mission study process; assisted Mt Storm Church
with manse repairs; assisted Poplar Hill with property appraisal; work continues
with re-development at First Martinsburg, Falling Waters, and Tuscarora;
suggest a presbytery-wide officer/leader workshop.
Funds Administration – allocated 18 college scholarships
at $375 each.
Stewardship Education Resource Team – reorganizing
and determining future tasks.
Presbyterian Women – Linda Livick reported that the
Synod Leadership Training was held on the campus of W & L. The Fall
Gathering was held September 8 with 108 in attendance and an offering of
$661 that was given to New Bridges, Massanetta Challenge Fund, and Presbyterian
Disaster Fund.
Presbytery Planning – meeting following today’s Council
meeting to plan the agenda for the November 13 Presbytery meeting and to
procure host sites for the 2009 Presbytery meetings. Jonathan Bunker
asked the Council their view of having three Presbytery meetings per year
instead of four. After much discussion, it was very clear that the
current Council is in favor of four meetings per year. A motion was
made, seconded and approved to have a task force to look at the current structure/outline
of Presbytery meetings and how might attendance be increased, especially
at the summer meeting. Members to serve are: Ron Wilkes, convener;
David Witt; Ann Pettit; Harriet Thompson; member of Vision and Mission;
member of Stewardship Education Resource Team. It was asked that any
ideas/suggestions from this task force be sent to the Council via email for
review before the January 15 meeting.
Professional Development –received a written report
noting that more members are needed for the committee.
Worldwide Ministries – Homer Cornish submitted a
written report noting that the schedule for Don and Wei Hong Snow can be
found at http://shenpres.org/SnowSchedule.pdf Homer reported that over
600 attended the Mission ’07 Conference with 11 from Shenandoah.
NEW BUSINESS
A motion was made, seconded and approved, to recommend to the November
Presbytery meeting the nomination of Barbara Johnson to serve chair of
the Nominations Committee, and John McDonald to serve as vice-chair of the
Committee.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to ask Tom Biggs to serve on
the Nominations Committee, class of 2010.
A motion was made, seconded and approved for Martin Stokes to obtain
an elder to serve in the class of 2010 on the Nominations Committee.
The meeting adjourned at 12:05 with prayer by the Rev. Jonathan Bunker
Next meeting: Tuesday January 15, 2008, beginning at 10:00 a.m.
with time on the docket to discuss the content of presbytery meetings
Submitted by,
Kim T. Stroupe |
MINUTES OF THE
PRESBYTERY COUNCIL
July 17, 2007
Adobe
The Presbytery Council met on Tuesday, July 17, convening at 10:00
a.m. at the Presbytery Office. Members present were:
Mark Davis, Council Chair
Jonathan Bunker, Council Vice-Chair
Robert S. Osborne, Presbytery Moderator
Ron Wilkes, Presbytery Vice-Moderator
Laura Smith, Nominations Chair
Wray Sherman, Budget & Finance
Candi Vernon, Office & Personnel Chair
Linda Livick, PW Moderator
Homer T. Cornish, World Wide Ministries Chair
Kathleen Haines, Higher Education
Barbara Johnson, Potomac Highlands Rep
Ed Brown, Eastern Panhandle Rep
Carl Howard, Eastern Panhandle Rep
Ramona Sanders, Central Valley Rep
Pat Klumpp, Highland-Augusta Rep
Staff:
Philip Sieck, Stated Clerk
Lucille Gohdes, Treasurer
Kim Stroupe, Assistant for Constitution
The Rev. Carl Howard opened the meeting with prayer; devotions were
led by Mark Davis.
AGENDA
The printed agenda was approved for the day.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Minutes of March 27 were approved as distributed.
MISSION COMMUNITY REPORTS
Central Valley – Ramona Sanders submitted a written
report highlighting the following: approximately 40 people attended
the annual spring workday at Massanetta Springs; the second annual pulpit
exchange was held April 29; the second annual summer cookout was held June
23 on the grounds of the Presbytery Office with about 100 attending; CVMC
dinner planned for October 29, 6:00, at First Harrisonburg; next meeting
scheduled for Thursday, September 6, 1:30 at Trinity Church.
Eastern Panhandle – Ed Brown submitted a written
report highlighting Vespers Service July 22 at 7:00 at War Memorial Park
in Martinsburg; Hedgesville Church celebrating their 75th Anniversary
3:00 on August 26; EPMC Session Enrichment Program September 9; Fall Music
Festival September 23, 4:30 at Gerrardstown Church; Presbyterian High School
Dinner at Shepherd University October 14 at 5:00 for students 9-12th grade;
mission support program October 28-November 3; next meeting Monday July
23, 6:30 at Falling Waters Church.
Highland Augusta – Pat Klumpp submitted a written
report noting their main focus has been the mission trip to Baja.
Mountain Valley – Joan Wilson submitted a written
report.
Potomac Highlands – Barb Johnson reported the community
is working on establishing better communication and working relationships
with the Lutherans. Laura Smith announced the upcoming 125th Anniversary
for Mt. Storm Church to be celebrated August 11-12.
STAFF REPORTS
Stated Clerk – Philip brought the following item
from the History Committee: Request that Council give permission
to sale the Lexington Presbytery History books for $20 each and the CDs
of Winchester Presbytery History for $15 each with proceeds to go toward
the Shenandoah Presbytery History Book Fund. Recommendation approved.
It was noted the History Committee has received $15,000 in pledges toward
the $30,000 cost to research, write and publish the Shenandoah Presbytery
30-Year History Book.
Philip received communication from the General Assembly regarding
the fact that Shenandoah needs to appoint an overture advocate to attend
the 2008 General Assembly to speak to the overture from Shenandoah.
A motion was made, seconded and approved, to recommend to the August Presbytery
to send Homer Cornish to the 2008 General Assembly as Shenandoah’s advocate
for the overture that was adopted at the February 2007 Presbytery meeting
regarding reinstating the annual mission season offering.
Philip reported that the commission appointed regarding the Barton
and Lanaconing churches transferring from Baltimore Presbytery to Shenandoah
is ready to convene and begin their work.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Budget & Finance – Wray Sherman submitted a
copy of the first reading of the 2008 Budget noting the amount required
from the operating reserve to balance the expenditure requests is $50,750.
A motion was made, seconded and approved to send the first reading of the
2008 budget to the August 18 Presbytery meeting.
Campus Ministry – Kathleen Haines submitted a written report noting
there is a need in the referral of students.
Funds Administration – Lucille Gohdes reported
that the McClung Endowment was established in 1999 however no guidance
was given to the Corporation for distributing funds. The Funds Administration
makes the following recommendations to the Council: (both approved)
1 – That any past funds added to the principal remain with the principal
and any future earnings available be the responsibility of the Funds Administration
Committee.
2 – The Committee asks that funds earned be allowed to accumulate
for a specific ministry over a two to three-year span, subject to the
approval of the Presbytery Council.
Nomination – Laura Smith noted that applications are online
for commissioners to attend the 2008 General Assembly in San Jose, California.
Applications will also be available at the August Presbytery meeting.
Office & Personnel – Candi Vernon noted the
Committee on Ministry is presenting to the August Presbytery meeting a
revised parental leave policy for all ministers in Shenandoah Presbytery.
Office & Personnel is waiting on the outcome of that vote before they
consider revising the policy for the Office staff.
Paddy Run Outdoor Ministries – received a written report.
Presbyterian Women – Linda Livick reported that
28 women from Shenandoah attended the summer gathering. The following
request comes from the Presbyterian Women: That Council give permission
to PW to serve communion August 5 in Lexington during the Synod PW meeting.
Approved
Presbytery Planning – meeting following today’s
Council meeting to plan the agenda for the August 18 Presbytery meeting
and to procure host sites for the 2009 Presbytery meetings.
Professional Development –received a written report.
Worldwide Ministries – Homer Cornish reported that
speakers are being scheduled for Mission 2007. It was noted that
Brian Gilchrest has resigned his position with EECMY and the Presbyterian
Church effective June 30. He has taken a position with USAID and
will be serving in Addis Ababa.
OLD BUSINESS
A motion was made, seconded and approved, to recommend to the August
Presbytery the nomination of Fawn Fleagle to serve on the Nominations Committee,
Class of 2008 replacing the Rev. Karen Willis who has moved.
A motion was made, seconded and approved, to recommend to the August
Presbytery the nomination of the Rev. Amy Summers-Minette to serve on the
Nominations Committee, Class of 2009, filling a vacancy.
The meeting adjourned at 11:50 with prayer by the Rev. Kathleen Haines
Next meeting: Tuesday October 16 beginning at 10:00 a.m.
NOTE THIS IS A CHANGE IN DATE.
Submitted by,
Kim T. Stroupe
|
|