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Presbytery Council Minutes
Click on date: 7/07 , 10/07 , 1/08, 4/08 , 7/08
Presbytery Council Minutes
Click on date: 7/07 , 10/07 , 1/08, 4/08 , 7/08
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |