May 4, 2011
To: Pastors, Elders and Congregations in the Presbytery of Shenango
From: The Special Issues Team
Re: Forum for Discussion
You are invited to a discussion following the May 17, 2011 Special Presbytery Meeting (6:30-7:30PM) at First Presbyterian Church of Sharon hosted by the Special Issues Team. This team was established by the General Council and approved by the Presbytery to facilitate understanding and discussion on the significant changes happening in the PCUSA. The meeting will start following the conclusion of the Presbytery Meeting (around 7:30PM), and all pastors, elders and leaders in the Presbytery of Shenango are invited.
The meeting will discuss:
A-The focus and goals of the Special Issues Team;
Focus: To provide forums for information and discussion of changes taking place within the PCUSA, and to facilitate core biblical-theological reflection and analysis for pastors and lay leaders of churches in the Presbytery of Shenango.
Goals:
1-To organize forums for information, understanding and discussion of significant issues of constitutional and structural change within the PCUSA;
2-To organize forums for discussing core biblical-theological values in the Presbytery of Shenango;
3-To create opportunities for fellowship and support among pastors and churches in these times of significant change;
4-To encourage Christ-like character (fruit of the Spirit) in the response and discussion of issues and change with the PCUSA, acknowledging that there are people of grace and biblical conviction on both sides of issues.
B-The request made by the Bethel Church for the Presbytery to consider joining “the White Paper fellowship;”
C-Questions regarding the deletion of “G-6” on ordination standards;
D-And perhaps information on the “Middle-Governing Body Commission” established by General Assembly.
Please contact co-moderators of the Special Issues Team, Rev. Bill Hoffman and Rev. Glenn Hink, with any questions.
The Presbytery of Shenango 