An electronic newsletter from the Presbytery of Donegal

 

 Dec 18, 2008        #111

New Format!

Top Stories
Mission Info
News Issues
Christian Formation Info
Positions Available
Upcoming meetings!
One Good Idea

 

Growing Faith Growing Churches 

Our next scheduled presbytery meeting is Jan 27th at 9:30am at Avondale  Presbyterian Church

 

Poster Sessions:  None in January

 

 

Save the Dates:

 

Jan 25 - 2-5:30 Presby trg for Depts, Committee

Apr 25th next Sexual Misconduct Prevention trg, Stewardship, Risk Management

May 17 - 2 - 5 Multi Cultural Presby Prayer meeting

Jun 11-13 - 2nd Elders conf

Jul 11-15 PW Gathering

 

 

 

Presbytery meetings:

Do you need a baby sitter for presbytery meetings?  Call the church directly and they will arrange for it!

 

 

Personnel Resource Database! 

Need a contact in our presbytery with some special expertise?  Go to our web site, www.donegalpby.com click on Resource Center and then Personnel and find some help!  To add your own skills to the database, just use the password - dpres and you can add your own.  

 

As of 12/18/08 there were 141 skilled people in this database.  What skills do you need? Please Register your expertise today!

 

 

CONTACT

Presbytery of Donegal
P.O. Box 10054
1861 Charter Lane ste 125
Lancaster, PA 17605-0054
717.392.4035 (phone)
717.392.8922 (fax)

To unsubscribe from this news, send an email to: kathy@donegalpby.com and put in the subject line - unsubscribe eNews

Important Note:  If you want to have a confidential conversation regarding a possible sexual misconduct incident, call the Presbytery office (717.392.4035) for the name and phone number of the "Sexual Misconduct Team Coordinator" (this will be a member of the Committee on Ministry), as indicated in our Presbytery Sexual Misconduct Policy.

Go see what's new at our constantly changing webpage!

http://www.presbyteryofdonegal.org

 
 

NEW NEWS FOR YOU - EXECUTIVE SUMMARY FOR GROWING FAITH - GROWING CHURCHES

Blessed Advent Season and Christmastide to you and yours from the Presbytery Staff!

Meet the Presbytery's Implementation Team at: http://www.presbyteryofdonegalintransition.org

The January Presbytery meeting will be held on Tuesday Jan 27th at 9:30am at Avondale Presbyterian Church.  We will have a time of worship, communion, discernment and then later in the day, debate and vote on Amendment 08-B, followed by more prayer and worship.

In the following video, Charlie Gross shares some excitement about 2009 and the faithful work of the Presbytery of Donegal - http://vimeo.com/2510979

2009 IRS mileage rates:

55 cents per mile for business miles driven

24 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes

14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations

Paper on Evangelistic Worship by Rev Dr Tim Keller (pastor at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC) http://www.redeemer2.com/resources/papers/evangelisticworship.pdf  Dr Keller is a PCA pastor helping many denominations plant and grow their churches.   

You asked for it, you got it!  A fillable form for the Communications Survey: http://www.donegalpby.com/csoct08v2.pdf   Fill it out, save it and then email it to Charlie at: cwgross@gmail.com

2007-2009 Books of Order are available from the presbytery office at a cost of $8.50 each. Please contact Kathy at kathy@donegalpby.com or 717-392-4035.

Christ is Born - Glorify Him, Adel Nasser – Bethlehem – http://cave.annadwa.org

Join Us! At: http://video1.cathedral.org/nave  Watch the Joint Simulcast Worship Service between the Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem and the Bethlehem Chapel, Washington National Cathedral, Saturday, December 20, 2008 at 10:00 am, EST  Bethlehem, the city of Jesus' birth, is under occupation.  All its residents, including Palestinian Christians, are suffering.

Save the date  January 15  from 9 am -12 noon.  Lenten texts preaching seminar at Bellevue Presbyterian.  Here in the midst of Advent and Christmastide we will quickly find ourselves into January and its call to prepare for Lent!  Mark your calendars.  This event always promises lots of inspiring reflection for our pastors.  Call the office to register for this free event sponsored by COM.

There will be an Orientation Meeting for members of all departments and committees on Saturday, January 25, 2009 at Bellevue Church from 2 to 5:30 p.m. led by the Rev. Charles W. Gross, Jr., Acting Executive Presbyter. This training event will acquaint all members of departments and committees (especially new members) with presbytery work, our direction and theme for 2009, as discerned by the Council in their December retreat. Please register with Kathy Bartels at kathy@donegalpby.com or by phone: 717.392.4035.

Consider engaging one of our Coaches to release greater innovative potential!  We are developing a coaching capacity in the Presbytery! You can hear more about it at: http://www.charliegross.com/charliecreativity29.mp3   Download this 4 minute podcast and play with Windows Media Player or go to the iTunes store and search for Charlie's Creativity Podcast and get episode 29 (the latest one).

The expanded Form of Government Task Force was charged by the 218th General Assembly with engaging sessions and presbyteries in a period of study of the new Form of Government documents.  Since the 218th General Assembly, the Task Force had revised the Foundations of Presbyterian Polity and Form of Government documents (see attached) based on the feedback received through the Assembly, including all of the overtures, advice and counsel memoranda, and Assembly Committee comments.  These revised documents are now presented to the denomination for their study and response.   In addition to the revised documents, the Task Force has created several additional documents to aid the church in this time of study and response: 

What is Missional Ecclesiology?   Written by Task Force member Paul Hooker, this paper explains the missional theology which stands behind the Task Force’s work.

Preface to Study Guides.  This document introduces the study process, and suggests ways to study and respond to the work of the Task Force

Individual Preparation Guide.  This document guides individuals through the Foundations and Form of Government proposals, to prepare them for taking part in a group study.

Group Study Guide.  This document guides groups in discussing and responding to the Task Force’s work.  Updated Advisory Handbooks for Councils

 

These documents can be seen at the Form of Government Task Force website:  http://www.pcusa.org/formofgovernment/

 

The Task Force will receive responses to their work from now until June 30, 2009.  Following the period of study and response, the Task Force will make additional revisions to their work, and submit final versions to the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly by the date set by the 218th General Assembly, October 15, 2009.  Sessions and presbyteries are encouraged to take advantage of this period for study and response, so that the best possible proposal may be presented to the 219th General Assembly in 2010. Cynthia Bolbach and Dan Williams, Co-Moderators, Form of Government Task Force

Registration for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s Big Tent will open in January of 2009.  But if you would like to use 2008 funds to pre-pay your registration fees, or fees of a group of attendees from your church or presbytery, you are now able to do so!   http://www.pcusa.org/bigtent/

 

MISSION INFO

Applications available from the 2009 Synod of the Trinity's Grants and Scholarship Committee:  Undergraduate Educational Scholarship, Graduate Scholarship/Grant The information is available online at either of these web pages:   http://www.syntrinity.org/Programs/ScholarshipsGrantsLoan.htm

http://www.syntrinity.org/home/news/2009-10_Scholarships_Available.htm  or by calling the Synod Office.   Please encourage all eligible students to apply.  Deadline is April 30, 2009. 

Please note:  Synod Mission Travel Grants have been eliminated in 2009.  Feel free to contact me via email or phone with any questions concerning our educational scholarships. Christmas Blessings, Marcia R. Humer, Resources, Grants & Scholarships, Synod of the Trinity, 3040 Market Street, Camp Hill, PA 17011, 800-242-0534 ext. 233 http://www.syntrinity.org

MISSION COMMITTEES!  Help build the church at Samate - check out the website: http://www.donegalpby.com/churchbuilding.php

Honduras Mission Summer 2009 June 21-27, 2009, $1371 total, more info - contact: Steven C. Mentzer, Central American Relief Efforts, http://www.carelief.org or 717.203.4942 or ssmentzer@comcast.net

Are you in need of a home?  Habitat is in need of a family.

Habitat for Humanity of Chester County is currently building in both the Borough of West Chester and Coatesville and we are in search of qualified families.  Habitat requires an annual income between $22,000 and $55,000 and we are working every day to help families attain the goal of homeownership.  Did you know that homeownership strengthens neighborhoods, communities and schools?  Children whose parents own their homes have higher math and reading scores and lower rates of behavioral problems.  They also have lower rates of teen pregnancy and tend to stay in school through graduation. Habitat for Humanity of Chester County has been building homes since 1989 and through grants, individual, church and corporate donations, and the hard work of thousands of volunteers, Habitat has had the privilege to offer homeownership to more than 100 Chester County families.  If you, or someone you know, are interested in becoming a homeowner, please contact Deanna Weiss at 610-384-7993 x14 or deanna@hfhcc.org

 

PREVIOUSLY RUN NEWS FROM PRESBYTERY IN PAST ISSUES!

Note! In an effort to conserve your time - these items (except the Calendar) were previously run, or unless they have a 12-18-08 date next to them.  

 

CHRISTIAN FORMATION INFORMATION

New for 12-18-08!  You are cordially invited to attend a breakfast and a Pastoral Leadership Series presented by the Samaritan Counseling Center on the topic of - The Challenge of Hospitality, Inclusiveness and Safety in the Church, Clergy Breakfast Seminar - January 15, 2009 (Snow date:  January 22, 2008 based on 2-hour delay for Manheim Township Schools), 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM, St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10 Delp Road, Lancaster.  Join your colleagues for breakfast and an introductory presentation on this challenging issue by Rev. James W. Hanna, Executive Director, Samaritan Counseling Center, and Linda Crockett, Director, Walking Together program. We want our churches to be places of sanctuary where people of all ages can gather for worship, study and service with assurance they are safe in the community of faith.  At the same time, we are increasingly presented with the challenge of offering hospitality to all who seek fellowship while protecting children and other vulnerable people.  Child sexual abuse is a tragic reality affecting children in communities and congregations; sexual offenders want to join our fellowships after release from prison; and welcoming homeless people who have been traumatized presents special challenges.

Explore this topic in-depth with this 3-part series in an environment of collegial support and mutual learning. Clergy Leadership Group Series, 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM, February 12***February 19***February 26, Samaritan Counseling Center, 1803 Oregon Pike, Lancaster

Creating a truly safe church requires us to be “as wise as serpents and innocent as doves” as we navigate the laws, ethics and emotions surrounding the issue of child abuse.  This series helps clergy steer clear of storms, and find the best route through the inevitable ones that occur.

Feb 12:  Refresher and Update: Mandated reporting of child abuse by clergy

Feb 19:  Challenges in integrating a known sexual offender into the congregation 

Feb 26: Understanding congregational dynamics around issues of abuse

Registration is required.  Cost for the breakfast is $10 and cost for the series is $90.  For clergy who are members of the Center’s Partnership in Ministry program, there is no cost for the breakfast and the series is $75.   Click here to print a registration form.  For more information, contact Barbara Tolbert, (717) 735-8776, extension 11 or by email at btolbert@scclanc.org

Click here for the slides used by Bob Barcus in the Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training http://www.donegalpby.com/barcusppt.pdf

 

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

New 12-18-08  Church Business Administrator (CBA) Part-Time for Paoli Presbyterian Church. We are looking for a part-time Church Business Administrator to join our leadership team at Paoli Presbyterian Church. The Church Business Administrator provides strategic leadership, oversight, and support in the areas of finance, facilities, and information technology. This position focuses on the management of processes, policies, and procedures needed in these main areas to support the church and its ministries. The Church Administrator will work under the supervision of the Senior Pastor/Head of Staff, participate regularly in staff meetings, and coordinate with other church programs and related staff.  Educational Background required: Bachelor’s degree in business administration and/or finance. Preferred: advanced education and/or credentials in area of church or non-profit organization, with at least 5 years direct experience in similar positions. Salary competitive; 20-25 hours per week; Exempt - Vacation: refer to policy - 2 weeks. Contact Dr. Jack Felch, 610-644-8250, jack.felch@paolipres.org

 

Secretary/Administrative Assistant for International Missionary organization, Presbyterian Order for World Evangelization. Flexible schedule up to 21 hours/week. Excellent salary. Skills include QuickBooks, Word, Excel, etc. 717-786-9940 or email mjwelde@gmail.com

NEW on 11-20-08 First Presbyterian Church, Strasburg, seeks part-time Director of Christian Education for Children & Youth. For application packet,  Call 717-687-6030 or straspres@straspres.org.

Central Presbyterian Church, Downingtown, PA, is seeking a Youth Director (full-time, 40 hours per week.) The Youth Director is responsible for the coordination and oversight of youth ministry programs from 3rd grade through high school.  Major duties include outreach to and discipleship of students in and out of the church and recruiting, equipping and training of ministry teams ministering Sunday evenings for Sr. High and Wednesday evenings for Upper Elementary and Middle School.  Candidates must have a personal commitment to Jesus Christ, a great love for youth and a strong desire to nature them in their Christian journey.  In addition, strong relational skills, proven organization skills, attention to details, and written and oral communications skills are needed.  Qualifications are a degree in youth ministry and/or 2 years proven experience.  Email resumes to: personnel@cpcdowningtown.org, mail to:  Youth Director Search Committee, 100 Uwchlan Ave. Downingtown, PA 19335 or fax to 610-269-9842.

Director of Children’s Ministry (DCM) opening at Unionville Presbyterian Church, Unionville, PA. DCM job includes planning and implementation of children educational programs, infant through 5th grade, developing Christian-based curricula, coordination of Sunday school teachers, and family programs.  Please direct all inquiries and submit resumes to UPC Office, attn: CE Ministry Team, 610-347-2327.  Address:  815 Wollaston Rd,  P.O. Box 447, Unionville PA, 19375, or via e-mail at: upcoffice@bee.net

Unionville Presbyterian Church in Unionville, PA is seeking a Director of Youth Ministry (DYM). The DYM responsibilities include; lead planning and implementation of youth ministries for middle school, high school, and college-aged youth, serving as lead resource and support for Confirmation Class, and supervision of youth programs including Sunday school, Sunday night youth group and other projects, trips, etc. Please direct all inquiries and submit resumes to UPC Office, attn: CE Ministry Team, 610-347-2327.  Address:  815 Wollaston Rd,  P.O. Box 447, Unionville PA, 19375, or via e-mail at: upcoffice@bee.net

Stewartstown Presbyterian Church announces an immediate opening for the position of Church Organist.  Duties include playing for one service per week plus additional special services throughout the year.  For full information regarding job description, terms, and salary, please contact our church office via phone (717-993-6278) or email (stpresby@verizon.net).

The First Presbyterian Church of Phoenixville is seeking a Worship & Praise Team Leader to lead the music and direct our Praise Team during our contemporary Rise & Shine service.  This is a salaried, part-time position (approximately 10 hours per week).  This is your opportunity to contribute to a loving, growing and thriving church.  Interested musicians should forward their resume to secretaryfpc@comcast.net or mail to: The First Presbyterian Church of Phoenixville, 145 Main Street Phoenixville , PA 19460  RE:  Praise Team Leader.

 

 

CALENDAR OF COMING MEETINGS!

Use the webpage calendar at: http://www.donegalpby.com/cgi-bin/calendar.pl  or: 

Thursday, Dec 18 - Interim Pastors meet at 1:30pm at First Presbyterian in Strasburg

Monday, Jan 5 - Committee on Preparation meets at 12:30pm - 4:30pm at Highland

Monday, Jan 5 - Women in Ministry meet at 1:30pm at Leacock

Monday, Jan 5 - Committee on Ministry meets at 7pm at Leacock Presbyterian

Tuesday, Jan 6 - Administration Dept is scheduled to meet at 9am at the presbytery office.  Stay tuned - this may change

Tuesday, Jan 6 - New Church Development meets at 1:30pm at Bellevue Pres

Thursday, Jan 8 - Property and Insurance meets at 9:30am at the presbytery office

Monday, Jan 12 - Steering Committee meets at the presbytery office and Council meets at 7pm at First Presbyterian in Strasburg

Tuesday, Jan 13 - Resurrection Chapel Commission meets at 5:15pm at First Pres Lancaster; Heifer Project Meeting from 6pm - 8pm at the presbytery office

Thursday, Jan 15 - Lenten Preaching Seminar from 9am - noon at Bellevue; Interim Pastors gathering at 1:30pm at First Pres in Strasburg

Sunday, Jan 25 - Presbytery orientation for new department and committee workers held from 2:00 - 5:30 at Bellevue Presbyterian in Gap.

Monday, Jan 26 - Camp Donegal Committee meets at 7pm at Camp Donegal

Tuesday, Jan 27 - Presbytery meets at 9:30am at Avondale Presbyterian Church

 

ONE GOOD IDEA

12-18-08 - One Great Idea - Watch the following video clip and become a lifelong virtual learner!

http://www.vimeo.com/2510870

Extravagant Blessings!     Charlie

If you have a good idea, I'd love to share it in this eNews letter.  Send it to me via: cwgross@gmail.com   Thank-You Very Much!

 



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