This Week:

March 17- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

March 21- 9:00 AM PW CT Team, Presbytery Office

March 25- OFFICE CLOSED, GOOD FRIDAY

 

Condolences

The presbytery extends its sympathy to TE Charlie Crane (Jackson Center) and his wife Mary over the recent loss of her mother, Margaret Ann Ewing, former teacher and active member of the First Sharon congregation.

 

Lunch with Dr. Andrew Purves

You are invited to lunch with Dr. Andrew Purves, Wednesday March 16, Noon, at the Tavern in New Wilmington, to celebrate his recent retirement from PTS and to wish him well in his forthcoming relocation to Wilmington, NC.  Many in our presbytery were students of Andrew at PTS, and Andrew was the presenter for Shenango’s very first pastor retreat.  Indeed, he helped stimulate the idea of our retreats in the first place.   Given all of this, some of us thought it good to have a chance to fellowship with him before he and Cathy move out of our area.  No program, no agenda.  Just lunch and, surely, laughs.  Mark your calendars and join us if you’d like.  NO RSVP Necessary.

 

Call to the Church

Six Teaching Elders from our presbytery participated in a recent regional gathering at Camp Crestfield, Slippery Rock, one of many such gatherings for discussion and debate prompted by PCUSA Moderator Heath Rada’s 2015 call to the church.

 

Marriage Preparation Workshop

Friday, April 1^st from 1-3 PM at the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Nathan Brooks.  This workshop is free and open to all our pastors, regardless of your involvement in the Marriage Retreat.  Our Leadership Development Team wanted to take advantage of having Brooks in town for the weekend and to offer something practical for those not participating in the retreat.  This is not a workshop pushing specific proprietary methods or selling certain preparation materials. There’s enough of that out there. This is a focused conversation with a seasoned colleague on best practices for preparing couples for marriage, based on years of his work as both a pastor and licensed therapist/counselor.  There is no registration for this workshop.  Just come to New Wilmington church for 1pm.  Plenty of room for all.  Our thanks to Matt Camlin and NWPC for hosting us in the middle of the presbytery.  If you are participating with your spouse in the Marriage Retreat, we will end this workshop in time for you to return home and then arrive at Villa Maria for the start of the retreat that evening.

 

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, is co-leading a group 31 participants in the annual Dominican Republic mission visit with our partners in the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana (March 1-6).  He is teaching adult Sunday School and meeting with the deacons of First church, Sharon (March 13).  He is leading a workshop for deacons at a leadership event for Beaver-Butler presbytery (March 13). He is preaching at the Wurtemburg church (March 20). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 orralph@shenango.org.

 

Shenango Presbytery Scholarships

The Shenango Presbytery Scholarship Fund is supported by gifts from the congregations of the presbytery. The fund is intended to assist students who are members of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Preference will be given to applicants who belong to churches in Shenango Presbytery. Recipients of aid from this fund are eligible for continued assistance in successive years, but they must reapply for aid annually and continue to meet the criteria listed below.

Criteria for Consideration
1. Acceptance as a full-time student at Grove City College or Westminster College by June 1, 2016
2. Demonstrated financial need
3. Academic achievement: if a high school senior, a minimum GPA of 3.3; if a current student at one of the colleges, a minimum GPA of 3.0
4. Evidence in writing of past and present involvement in the life and witness of the Christian community

Click here to download the scholarship application.  Note: Application materials must be submitted (or postmarked) by May 2, 2016.

 

Register for NWMC!

Registration for the 111th annual New Wilmington Mission Conference is now open! The conference will be held July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College. Come out and hear about what God is doing all over the world! This year’s Morning Meeting speakers are Nancy and Shelvis Smith-Mathers, PC(USA) mission co-workers in South Sudan who are supported by Shenango Presbytery. Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect with folks from all over the world–right here in our own backyard! For more information or to register, visit www.nwmcmission.org or e-mailoffice@nwmcmission.org.

 

Leader Wanted

Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity is seeking applicants for a leadership position.  Interested applicants can submit resumes to apply.lchfh@gmail.com or by sending to 138 W. Washington St., New Castle, PA 16101.  Please submit resumes by March 15, 2016.  Questions can be directed to 724-652-3438.

 

News From the Churches

Prayer Labyrinth

First Presbyterian Church of Sharon members and friends are participating in a canned food drive this Lenten season.  On Palm Sunday members and friends will work together to transform the gym at the church into a prayer room with a “prayer labyrinth” lined by the food cans they have collected, and the Stations of the Cross.  The room will be open to the public on Maundy Thursday, March 24^th from 5:30-9:30 PM and Good Friday from 12 noon to 8:00 PM.  All are welcome!  After Easter Sunday all of the food will be prayed over and given to the Community Food Warehouse for distribution.  For more information, call First @ 724-981-2211.

Gethsemane Prayer Garden

Leesburg ECO Presbyterian Church will be offering a Gethsemane Prayer Garden experience beginning on March 24^th at 8 PM and lasting until March 25^th at 6 PM.  You are invited to come and pray an hour with Jesus.  (Note: Security will be provided, and lights will be dimmed in the garden area.  You may nod to one another, if you choose as you come and go, but please refrain from any conversation in the Garden.)

 

 

Treasurer Needed

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church has an opening for a Church Treasurer.  If anyone is interested, they can call Rev. Chris Weichman at the church, 724-654-6657.

 

Piano Platform Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle has a platform for a baby grand piano.  It has wheels so that the piano can be moved or repositioned.  They will offer it at no charge to any other church that has a use for it.  Please contact Janis Pherson at 724-651-8054.

 

Piano Tuner

Unity PC would like to pass along that Glenn Smith of Volant, member of New Wilmington PC, is a good and reasonably priced piano tuner.  His phone number is 724-533-9998.  Unity has been using his service and has been very satisfied.
Palm Sunday Event at Westfield ECO

The Mohawk Area Church Association is sponsoring Shine, Jesus, Shine: A Community Palm Sunday Choir Festival at Westfield Presbyterian Church at 3:00  p.m. on Sunday, March 20. Local musicians and church choirs will participate. This event is dedicated to the memory of Peggy Phipps, beloved Mohawk teacher and a  member of Mahoning Presbyterian Church, their choir, and a faithful participant in past choir festivals. There is no cost for this community event, but a free-will offering will be taken. Refreshments will be served.

 

Handbells Wanted

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare is organizing a bell choir.  If any churches in the area have bells that they no longer want or need, consider donating your set to SPSC.  Please contact Sharyn McCaskey, Director of Community Living at SPSC atsmccaskey@srcare.org or 724-946-3408.

 

Annual Easter Bake Sale

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare will hold their Annual Easter Bake Sale on March 18^thfrom 9 AM – 3 PM in the Market Street Lobby.  Churches can drop off baked goods and homemade candies the day before.  Save the date for future bake sales: August 5^th and December 8-9.

 

This Week:

March 15- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
March 17- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

Recalibrating the Church for the 21^st Century
World Mission Initiative 2016 Bi-Annual Conference
April 8 and 9, 2016 at the Pittsburgh Seminary

Shenango group discount available — $40

View details and register online at:
http://www.worldmissioninitiative.org/index.php/initiatives/wmi-conference

Select CHURCH GROUP and indicate SHENANGO PRESBYTERY in the group name. Then send $40 to the presbytery office, indicating WMI CONFERENCE.  Call the presbytery office to find out how to use PayPal.

Alan Hirsch, the keynote speaker, will be offering one address Friday evening and two addresses and a workshop Saturday. Seventeen other workshops will be offered on Saturday. Attendees may select three to attend. Twenty –six organizations and mission opportunities will be on display in the Knox Room. Lunch and dinner will be provided on Saturday.

 

Presbytery Births

Pastors in our presbytery have been busy welcoming new babies into their families in recent months!  Most recently, Magdalene Joy Brubaker was born to Sean and Amanda last week (Calvin Church).  David Mark Creekpaum was born to Beth and John not long ago (Sandy Lake church), Rich and Christianna Kinney also welcomed Howard A. II (Highland church), and little Harper Rose Muska was born to Max and Heather (Harlansburg and Rich Hill churches).

 

April 1-3, 2016 at Villa Maria Education & Spirituality Center…Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III – Guest Speaker – REGISTRATION DEADLINE THIS WEEK!

Pastors, you are invited to our presbytery pastor-spouse weekend retreat, the weekend after Easter, 2016.

• Learn more.
• Register online!

 

 

Marriage Preparation Workshop

Friday, April 1^st from 1-3 PM at the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dr. Nathan Brooks.  This workshop is free and open to all our pastors, regardless of your involvement in the Marriage Retreat.  Our Leadership Development Team wanted to take advantage of having Brooks in town for the weekend and to offer something practical for those not participating in the retreat.  This is not a workshop pushing specific proprietary methods or selling certain preparation materials. There’s enough of that out there. This is a focused conversation with a seasoned colleague on best practices for preparing couples for marriage, based on years of his work as both a pastor and licensed therapist/counselor.  There is no registration for this workshop.  Just come to New Wilmington church for 1pm.  Plenty of room for all.  Our thanks to Matt Camlin and NWPC for hosting us in the middle of the presbytery.  If you are participating with your spouse in the Marriage Retreat, we will end this workshop in time for you to return home and then arrive at Villa Maria for the start of the retreat that evening.

 

Lunch with Dr. Andrew Purves

You are invited to lunch with Dr. Andrew Purves, Wednesday March 16, Noon, at the Tavern in New Wilmington, to celebrate his recent retirement from PTS and to wish him well in his forthcoming relocation to Wilmington, NC.  Many in our presbytery were students of Andrew at PTS, and Andrew was the presenter for Shenango’s very first pastor retreat.  Indeed, he helped stimulate the idea of our retreats in the first place.   Given all of this, some of us thought it good to have a chance to fellowship with him before he and Cathy move out of our area.  No program, no agenda.  Just lunch and, surely, laughs.  Mark your calendars and join us if you’d like.  NO RSVP Necessary.

 

PW Spring Gathering Correction

The flyer in the presbytery packet regarding the upcoming PW Spring Gathering contained the wrong address for Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle.  The correct address is: 1315 East Washington Street, New Castle, PA  16101.  Phone: 724-658-6683.

 

Hawkins Article

Our EP Ralph Hawkins wrote an article about ruling elders supporting deacons for the national RE: Regarding Ruling Elders blog hosted by the Presbyterian Church (USA).  Check it out his article here.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, is co-leading a group 31 participants in the annual Dominican Republic mission visit with our partners in the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana (March 1-6).  He is teaching adult Sunday School and meeting with the deacons of First church, Sharon (March 13).  He is leading a workshop for deacons at a leadership event for Beaver-Butler presbytery (March 13). He is preaching at the Wurtemburg church (March 20). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Stated Clerk Updates

– Candidate Mike Carlin was successfully examined by the presbytery and will be ordained and installed as pastor of First Sharpsville on April 10, 4pm.

– Candidate Max Muska (Beaver-Butler) was successfully examined by the presbytery and will be ordained on March 13, 4pm, at the Harlansburg church.  Max is serving as Temporary Pastor of the Harlansburg and Rich Hill churches.

 

Shenango Presbytery Scholarships

The Shenango Presbytery Scholarship Fund is supported by gifts from the congregations of the presbytery. The fund is intended to assist students who are members of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Preference will be given to applicants who belong to churches in Shenango Presbytery. Recipients of aid from this fund are eligible for continued assistance in successive years, but they must reapply for aid annually and continue to meet the criteria listed below.

Criteria for Consideration
1. Acceptance as a full-time student at Grove City College or Westminster College by June 1, 2016
2. Demonstrated financial need
3. Academic achievement: if a high school senior, a minimum GPA of 3.3; if a current student at one of the colleges, a minimum GPA of 3.0
4. Evidence in writing of past and present involvement in the life and witness of the Christian community

Click here to download the scholarship application.  Note: Application materials must be submitted (or postmarked) by May 2, 2016.

 

A Conversation On The Future Of The PCUSA

Crestfield Camp and Conference Center in Slippery Rock is hosting a “town hall” conversation about the future of our church, in response to a “Call to the Church” by Moderator Heath Rada.  All pastors, elders, and church members in western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Eastern Ohio are invited to be part of this event on Tuesday, March 15, 10:00 am – through 1:00 pm.  The event is free, though gifts to defray meal costs will be welcome.  Read more here.  If you would like attend, please contact our presbytery office by March 11 or speak to EP Ralph Hawkins with questions.

 

Register for NWMC!

Registration for the 111th annual New Wilmington Mission Conference is now open! The conference will be held July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College. Come out and hear about what God is doing all over the world! This year’s Morning Meeting speakers are Nancy and Shelvis Smith-Mathers, PC(USA) mission co-workers in South Sudan who are supported by Shenango Presbytery. Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect with folks from all over the world–right here in our own backyard! For more information or to register, visit www.nwmcmission.org or e-mail office@nwmcmission.org.

 

Leader Wanted

Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity is seeking applicants for a leadership position.  Interested applicants can submit resumes to apply.lchfh@gmail.com or by sending to 138 W. Washington St., New Castle, PA 16101.  Please submit resumes by March 15, 2016.  Questions can be directed to 724-652-3438.

 

News From the Churches

Treasurer Needed

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church has an opening for a Church Treasurer.  If anyone is interested, they can call Rev. Chris Weichman at the church, 724-654-6657.

 

Piano Platform Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle has a platform for a baby grand piano.  It has wheels so that the piano can be moved or repositioned.  They will offer it at no charge to any other church that has a use for it.  Please contact Janis Pherson at 724-651-8054.

 

Piano Tuner

Unity PC would like to pass along that Glenn Smith of Volant, member of New Wilmington PC, is a good and reasonably priced piano tuner.  His phone number is 724-533-9998.  Unity has been using his service and has been very satisfied.
Palm Sunday Event at Westfield ECO

The Mohawk Area Church Association is sponsoring Shine, Jesus, Shine: A Community Palm Sunday Choir Festival at Westfield Presbyterian Church at 3:00  p.m. on Sunday, March 20. Local musicians and church choirs will participate. This event is dedicated to the memory of Peggy Phipps, beloved Mohawk teacher and a  member of Mahoning Presbyterian Church, their choir, and a faithful participant in past choir festivals. There is no cost for this community event, but a free-will offering will be taken. Refreshments will be served.

 

Handbells Wanted

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare is organizing a bell choir.  If any churches in the area have bells that they no longer want or need, consider donating your set to SPSC.  Please contact Sharyn McCaskey, Director of Community Living at SPSC at smccaskey@srcare.org or 724-946-3408.

 

Annual Easter Bake Sale

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare will hold their Annual Easter Bake Sale on March 18^th from 9 AM – 3 PM in the Market Street Lobby.  Churches can drop off baked goods and homemade candies the day before.  Save the date for future bake sales: August 5^th and December 8-9.

 

The Shenango Presbytery Scholarship Fund is supported by gifts from the congregations of the presbytery. The fund is intended to assist students who are members of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Preference will be given to applicants who belong to churches in Shenango Presbytery. Recipients of aid from this fund are eligible for continued assistance in successive years, but they must reapply for aid annually and continue to meet the criteria listed below.

Criteria for Consideration
1. Acceptance as a full-time student at Grove City College or Westminster College by June 1, 2016
2. Demonstrated financial need
3. Academic achievement: if a high school senior, a minimum GPA of 3.3; if a current student at one of the colleges, a minimum GPA of 3.0
4. Evidence in writing of past and present involvement in the life and witness of the Christian community

Shenango Presbytery Scholarship Application 2016 Note: Application materials must be submitted (or postmarked) by May 2, 2016.

This Week:

March 2- 1:30 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
March 8- 12:30 PM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office

Recalibrating the Church for the 21^st Century
World Mission Initiative 2016 Bi-Annual Conference
April 8 and 9, 2016 at the Pittsburgh Seminary

Shenango group discount available — $40

View details and register online at:
http://www.worldmissioninitiative.org/index.php/initiatives/wmi-conference

Select CHURCH GROUP and indicate SHENANGO PRESBYTERY in the group name. Then send $40 to the presbytery office, indicating WMI CONFERENCE.  Call the presbytery office to find out how to use PayPal.

Alan Hirsch, the keynote speaker, will be offering one address Friday evening and two addresses and a workshop Saturday. Seventeen other workshops will be offered on Saturday. Attendees may select three to attend. Twenty –six organizations and mission opportunities will be on display in the Knox Room. Lunch and dinner will be provided on Saturday.

 

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC BLOG

31 persons — many from Presbytery of Shenango congregations — will be traveling tomorrow to Sabaneta de Yasica in the Dominican Republic for the 24th year of an ongoing mission partnership that includes medical, education, and construction efforts.  Follow their week at http://sabanetadeyasica.blogspot.com.

 

PW Spring Gathering Correction

The flyer in the presbytery packet regarding the upcoming PW Spring Gathering contained the wrong address for Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle.  The correct address is: 1315 East Washington Street, New Castle, PA  16101.  Phone: 724-658-6683.

 

Hawkins Article

Our EP Ralph Hawkins wrote an article about ruling elders supporting deacons for the national RE: Regarding Ruling Elders blog hosted by the Presbyterian Church (USA).  Check it out his article here.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, is co-leading a group 31 participants in the annual Dominican Republic mission visit with our partners in the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana (March 1-6).  He is teaching adult Sunday School and meeting with the deacons of First church, Sharon (March 13).  He is leading a workshop for deacons at a leadership event for Beaver-Butler presbytery (March 13). He is preaching at the Wurtemburg church (March 20). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Stated Clerk Updates

– Candidate Mike Carlin was successfully examined by the presbytery and will be ordained and installed as pastor of First Sharpsville on April 10, 4pm.

– Candidate Max Muska (Beaver-Butler) was successfully examined by the presbytery and will be ordained on March 13, 4pm, at the Harlansburg church.  Max is serving as Temporary Pastor of the Harlansburg and Rich Hill churches.

 

 

April 1-3, 2016 at Villa Maria Education & Spirituality Center…Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III – Guest Speaker

Pastors, you are invited to our presbytery pastor-spouse weekend retreat, the weekend after Easter, 2016.

• Learn more.
• Register online!

 

Shenango Presbytery Scholarships

The Shenango Presbytery Scholarship Fund is supported by gifts from the congregations of the presbytery. The fund is intended to assist students who are members of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Preference will be given to applicants who belong to churches in Shenango Presbytery. Recipients of aid from this fund are eligible for continued assistance in successive years, but they must reapply for aid annually and continue to meet the criteria listed below.

Criteria for Consideration
1. Acceptance as a full-time student at Grove City College or Westminster College by June 1, 2016
2. Demonstrated financial need
3. Academic achievement: if a high school senior, a minimum GPA of 3.3; if a current student at one of the colleges, a minimum GPA of 3.0
4. Evidence in writing of past and present involvement in the life and witness of the Christian community

Click here to download the scholarship application.  Note: Application materials must be submitted (or postmarked) by May 2, 2016.

 

A Conversation On The Future Of The PCUSA

Crestfield Camp and Conference Center in Slippery Rock is hosting a “town hall” conversation about the future of our church, in response to a “Call to the Church” by Moderator Heath Rada.  All pastors, elders, and church members in western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Eastern Ohio are invited to be part of this event on Tuesday, March 15, 10:00 am – through 1:00 pm.  The event is free, though gifts to defray meal costs will be welcome.  Read more here.  If you would like attend, please contact our presbytery office by March 11 or speak to EP Ralph Hawkins with questions.

 

Register for NWMC!

Registration for the 111th annual New Wilmington Mission Conference is now open! The conference will be held July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College. Come out and hear about what God is doing all over the world! This year’s Morning Meeting speakers are Nancy and Shelvis Smith-Mathers, PC(USA) mission co-workers in South Sudan who are supported by Shenango Presbytery. Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect with folks from all over the world–right here in our own backyard! For more information or to register, visit www.nwmcmission.org or e-mail office@nwmcmission.org.

 

News From the Churches

Indoor Yard Sale

The Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church (291 Wurtemburg Road, Ellwood City) will be having an Indoor Yard Sale on Saturday, March 5 from 9 AM to 1 PM.  Tables are $10 each and are available by calling Kristin at 724-201-0034.  A kitchen and bake sale table will also be available.  All proceeds benefit the roof fund loan.

 

Director Of Children/Youth Ministries

Local Presbyterian Church is seeking someone to educate our children and youth in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.  This person will oversee the Christian Education program of our church for ages from high chair to high school.  The individual we seek must have strong Christian beliefs, solid interpersonal and communication skills, along with being an organized, self-starting person capable of accomplishing goals and objectives with minimum supervision.  Must have availability for Sunday worship, Saturday PM and other occasions as necessary.   Previous experience in church education programs is a plus.  Interested applicants should send resume in confidence to:  Personnel Committee, Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105  Or send on line to:  office@npcnc.org  Résumés/applications must be received no later than Feb. 19, 2016, for consideration.

 

Treasurer Needed

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church has an opening for a Church Treasurer.  If anyone is interested, they can call Rev. Chris Weichman at the church, 724-654-6657.

 

Piano Platform Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle has a platform for a baby grand piano.  It has wheels so that the piano can be moved or repositioned.  They will offer it at no charge to any other church that has a use for it.  Please contact Janis Pherson at 724-651-8054.

 

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC BLOG

31 persons — many from Presbytery of Shenango congregations — will be traveling tomorrow to Sabaneta de Yasica in the Dominican Republic for the 24th year of an ongoing mission partnership that includes medical, education, and construction efforts.  Follow their week at http://sabanetadeyasica.blogspot.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Week:

February 23- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, Rathburn Hall, Grove City College
February 24- 9:30 AM Fireside Chat: Session Meetings, Cravings Café and Creamery, Sharon
February 25- 7:00 PM Tech Workshop for Cluster 4 Churches, Clen-Moore PC, New Castle
March 2- 1:30 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office

 

April 1-3, 2016 at Villa Maria Education & Spirituality Center…Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III – Guest Speaker

Pastors, you are invited to our presbytery pastor-spouse weekend retreat, the weekend after Easter, 2016.

• Worship, fellowship, and learning with Shenango couples
• Starts with Friday supper; ends after Sunday lunch
• 2 nights lodging in the new Villa Maria guest rooms
• $150 for couples with children at home, $200 for empty-nest couples
• Underwritten by the Leadership Development Team
• If needed, presbytery will find a pulpit supply or offer a pulpit supply honorarium for Sunday
• Optional free workshop for pastors with Rev. Brooks (Friday at 1 PM at New Wilmington church) on working with couples in marriage preparation

·         Register online!

• View the flyer.
• View the schedule and FAQ

Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III of Lynchburg, VA is Coordinator of Pastoral Counseling Services for The Counseling Center of Human King (formerly the Presbyterian Homes and Family Services).  Certified by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors at the Fellow Level.

 

Fireside Chat: Session Meetings

Practical Conversation for Pastors: come with one idea or tip or practice to share…leave with many more in hand.  9:30 AM – 12:30 PM on February 24, 2016 $5, including lunch.  Cravings Cafe and Creamery, 76 Shenango Avenue, Sharon, PA.  Sponsored by Shenango’s Leadership Development Team.

 

Board of Pensions Assistance

Sessions: If your pastor is 1. enrolled in the Board of Pensions benefits plan, and 2. has a spouse and/or dependents also enrolled in the plan, then there is a 1.5% reimbursement of the plan dues available this year through our Committee on Ministry.  Contact EP Ralph Hawkins in the presbytery office to find out how to compute and request this reimbursement.

 

A Conversation On The Future Of The PCUSA

Crestfield Camp and Conference Center in Slippery Rock is hosting a “town hall” conversation about the future of our church, in response to a “Call to the Church” by Moderator Heath Rada.  All pastors, elders, and church members in western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Eastern Ohio are invited to be part of this event on Tuesday, March 15, 10:00 am – through 1:00 pm.  The event is free, though gifts to defray meal costs will be welcome.  Read more here.  If you would like attend, please contact our presbytery office by March 11 or speak to EP Ralph Hawkins with questions.

 

Why Men Don’t Go To Church

Greetings!  At Leaderfest this year, Charlene Kennedy (Bell Memorial) and I presented the workshop on “Why Men Don’t Go to Church”.  If you found that conversation helpful and would love to engage the topic further in your own context, one or both of us would be glad to follow up with you and your congregation.  Please contact us at the following email address: Charlene.Kennedy@hotmail.com  or splyler@humanservicescenter.net.   God Bless, CRE Steve Plyler (Mt. Jackson)

 

Leadership Training Event

For pastors, elders, deacons, and all church leaders – – Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 2:30 – 5:45 PM at the Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church.  This event will feature Dr. Scott Hagley, Assistant Professor of Missiology at PTS, with workshops for clerks, mentoring, treasurers, leadership, and even a deacon workshop led by Ralph Hawkins.  Contact the presbytery office for a copy of the registration form.

 

THRIVE: Ministry in the New Millennium

April 10-11, 2016 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe, PA featuring Keynote Speaker: Joel Comiskey, Worship Leader: Joshua Price, and Main Speaker: Karen Snavely.  Come and hear from practitioners on the leading edge of ministry in areas including: cell groups, worship, millennial ministry, campus ministry, media & communications, children – youth – and family ministry, and more.  Find out more and register atwww.thrive2016.us.

 

News From the Churches

An Evening of Entertainment

The Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church  (291 Wurtemburg Road, Ellwood City) will be having an indoor dance on Saturday, February 27 from 7 to 9 PM.  Music will be provided by the Sanctuary Jazz Band.  Light refreshments and beverages will be served.  Donations will be received for the work of the Carpenter’s Project.

 

Indoor Yard Sale

The Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church (291 Wurtemburg Road, Ellwood City) will be having an Indoor Yard Sale on Saturday, March 5 from 9 AM to 1 PM.  Tables are $10 each and are available by calling Kristin at 724-201-0034.  A kitchen and bake sale table will also be available.  All proceeds benefit the roof fund loan.

 

Director Of Children/Youth Ministries

Local Presbyterian Church is seeking someone to educate our children and youth in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.  This person will oversee the Christian Education program of our church for ages from high chair to high school.  The individual we seek must have strong Christian beliefs, solid interpersonal and communication skills, along with being an organized, self-starting person capable of accomplishing goals and objectives with minimum supervision.  Must have availability for Sunday worship, Saturday PM and other occasions as necessary.   Previous experience in church education programs is a plus.  Interested applicants should send resume in confidence to:  Personnel Committee, Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105  Or send on line to:  office@npcnc.org  Résumés/applications must be received no later than Feb. 19, 2016, for consideration.

 

Treasurer Needed

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church has an opening for a Church Treasurer.  If anyone is interested, they can call Rev. Chris Weichman at the church, 724-654-6657.

 

Piano Platform Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle has a platform for a baby grand piano.  It has wheels so that the piano can be moved or repositioned.  They will offer it at no charge to any other church that has a use for it.  Please contact Janis Pherson at 724-651-8054.

 

The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at Grove City College.  

Important Items Before Presbytery Include:

• Examination of Candidates Michael Carlin and Max Muska
• Gathering of Missionary Commitment Forms
• Greetings from the new Interim Camp Director, Rev. Joseph Tagliaferre
• Report on the Ethiopia work trip

Get the Docket and Council Minutes!

NOTE: Please email any documents for inclusion in the packet to Autumn at office@shenango.org ASAP.  We plan to send out a PDF packet on Friday.

 

Click here for directions to Grove City College’s Rathburn Hall.

This Week:

February 12- 9:00 AM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office
February 16- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC

 

Kinneys Welcome Baby

We rejoice with TE Rich Kinney (Highland) and his wife over the birth of a son, Howard A. Kinney II, who was born on Monday afternoon at 4:32 PM.  Baby is “healthy and handsome”.  He weighs 6 lbs. 6 oz. and is 18 in. long.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, is preaching at Mt. Jackson (Feb 21) and meeting with the elders and deacons of Slippery Rock church (Feb 15).  With TE Chris Weichman (Clen-Moore) and CRE Jim Moose (Unity) he will be co-leading a group of 31 participants in the Dominican Republic partnership visit shared by several Shenango congregations (Feb 27 – Mar 5).   Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Annual Reports

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 17, 2016 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms was January 31, 2016.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 12th!

 

Board of Pensions Assistance

Sessions: If your pastor is 1. enrolled in the Board of Pensions benefits plan, and 2. has a spouse and/or dependents also enrolled in the plan, then there is a 1.5% reimbursement of the plan dues available this year through our Committee on Ministry.  Contact EP Ralph Hawkins in the presbytery office to find out how to compute and request this reimbursement.

 

Shared Worship in New Castle

Elder Jean Reynolds (Third New Castle) and her son offer a moment for mission at the start of worship Sunday, February 7, a communion Sunday shared by three New Castle congregations: Shenango, Third, and First.  The three flocks will be sharing worship once a month for the next year, rotating the location among their three facilities.  “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people dwell together in unity!” – Psalm 133

 

Five Talents Reception

The New Wilmington church hosted Sonia Paterson (pictured standing) this weekend, a Presbyterian who works as CEO of Five Talents — an international Christian NGO that supports micro-lending, financial training, and self-development for women in some of the poorest countries around the world. One of Five Talents focus countries is South Sudan, where many of our Shenango congregations support Presbyterian mission co-workers.

 

Why Men Don’t Go To Church

Greetings!  At Leaderfest this year, Charlene Kennedy (Bell Memorial) and I presented the workshop on “Why Men Don’t Go to Church”.  If you found that conversation helpful and would love to engage the topic further in your own context, one or both of us would be glad to follow up with you and your congregation.  Please contact us at the following email address: Charlene.Kennedy@hotmail.com  or splyler@humanservicescenter.net.   God Bless, CRE Steve Plyler (Mt. Jackson)

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality presents Rev. Larissa Kwong Abazia, Vice-Moderator of the General Assembly PC(USA) and director of Church Relations, Princeton Theological Seminary as our Spiritual Emphasis Westminster speaker on Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA. 

The Reverend Larissa Kwong Abazia is a native of New Jersey and graduate of Rutgers University and Princeton Theological Seminary. Upon graduating from seminary, she was honored with the Asian American Ministry Award and the David P. Watermulder Award for Church Leadership. Rev. Kwong Abazia worked as a pastoral care resident at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia before serving congregations in Chicago, Manasquan, New Jersey, and Forest Hills, New York. She now serves as director of church relations at Princeton Theological Seminary

Rev. Kwong Abazia served as a core team member and co-moderator for Racial Ethnic Young Women Together (REYWT) and participated in the Presbyterian Women’s Racial Ethnic Dialogue. She also has worked with That All May Freely Serve, the Chicago Youth Collective, and the Advance Justice Committee of Chicago Presbytery. She currently serves on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) General Assembly Committee on Representation and the Personnel and Worship committees of the Presbytery of New York City. Rev. Kwong Abazia continually seeks ways to equip and empower people of all ages and backgrounds to live into the radical potential of life in community.

As a writer, Rev. Kwong Abazia has coauthored a reflection on readings from the lectionary for the Human Rights Campaign’s “Out In Scripture”; nine supplemental resources for the 2011–2012 Presbyterian Women’s Bible study on the Beatitudes; and an article for Unbound: An Interactive Journal of Social Justice titled, “Ready or Not.” She also has written a chapter in a collection of narratives by young adult clergywomen of color, “Streams Running Uphill: Conversations with Young Clergywomen of Color,” released in March 2014.

 

Leadership Training Event

For pastors, elders, deacons, and all church leaders – – Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 2:30 – 5:45 PM at the Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church.  This event will feature Dr. Scott Hagley, Assistant Professor of Missiology at PTS, with workshops for clerks, mentoring, treasurers, leadership, and even a deacon workshop led by Ralph Hawkins.  Contact the presbytery office for a copy of the registration form.

 

THRIVE: Ministry in the New Millennium

April 10-11, 2016 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe, PA featuring Keynote Speaker: Joel Comiskey, Worship Leader: Joshua Price, and Main Speaker: Karen Snavely.  Come and hear from practitioners on the leading edge of ministry in areas including: cell groups, worship, millennial ministry, campus ministry, media & communications, children – youth – and family ministry, and more.  Find out more and register atwww.thrive2016.us.

 

News From the Churches

Love The Arts!

First Presbyterian Church of Sharon, 600 East State Street, is hosting an “Art Show and Hands – On Art” on Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM in their gymnasium and Fellowship Hall.  This event is FREE and open to the public.  Many local artists will have their marvelous work on display and for sale, and a number of the artists and theatre folks will have hands-on stations so children and adults can try their creative side and experience different forms of art.  You might just find that perfect gift for your Valentine!

 

Director Of Children/Youth Ministries

Local Presbyterian Church is seeking someone to educate our children and youth in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.  This person will oversee the Christian Education program of our church for ages from high chair to high school.  The individual we seek must have strong Christian beliefs, solid interpersonal and communication skills, along with being an organized, self-starting person capable of accomplishing goals and objectives with minimum supervision.  Must have availability for Sunday worship, Saturday PM and other occasions as necessary.   Previous experience in church education programs is a plus.  Interested applicants should send resume in confidence to:  Personnel Committee, Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105  Or send on line to:  office@npcnc.org  Résumés/applications must be received no later than Feb. 19, 2016, for consideration.

 

Piano Platform Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle has a platform for a baby grand piano.  It has wheels so that the piano can be moved or repositioned.  They will offer it at no charge to any other church that has a use for it.  Please contact Janis Pherson at 724-651-8054.

April 1-3, 2016 at Villa Maria Education & Spirituality Center
Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III – Guest Speaker

Pastors,

You are invited to our presbytery pastor-spouse weekend retreat, the weekend after Easter, 2016.

• Worship, fellowship, and learning with Shenango couples
• Starts with Friday supper; ends after Sunday lunch
• 2 nights lodging in the new Villa Maria guest rooms
• $150 for couples with children at home, $200 for empty-nest couples
• Underwritten by the Leadership Development Team
• If needed, presbytery will find a pulpit supply or offer a pulpit supply honorarium for Sunday
• Optional free workshop for pastors with Rev. Brooks (Friday at 1 PM at New Wilmington church) on working with couples in marriage preparation

• Register online!

• View the flyer.
• View the schedule and FAQ

Rev. Nathan C. Brooks III of Lynchburg, VA is Coordinator of Pastoral Counseling Services for The Counseling Center of Human King (formerly the Presbyterian Homes and Family Services).  Certified by the American Association of Pastoral Counselors at the Fellow Level.

Medina Article

The Ellwood City Ledger posted an article about Ray Medina’s installation as pastor of Bell Memorial church.  Our presbytery ordained and installed Ray on December 13, 2015.  Check out the article here.

 

Creekpaum Baby

Rev. Beth and John Creekpaum welcomed the birth of a second son, David Mark, born last week in Farrell Hospital.  Mother and son are well.  Beth is a member of our presbytery, serving the Sandy Lake church.  John is a member of Eastminster Presbytery, just across the state line in Ohio.  Rev. Lisa Hickman is serving Sandy Lake church while Beth is on maternity leave.  Welcome David!

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will worship with Shenango, Third New Castle, and First New Castle churches  in the first of many monthly shared worship services (Feb 7).  He is preaching at Mt. Jackson (Feb 21) and meeting with the elders and deacons of Slippery Rock church (Feb 15).  With TE Chris Weichman (Clen-Moore) and CRE Jim Moose (Unity) he will be co-leading a group of 31 participants in the Dominican Republic partnership visit shared by several Shenango congregations (Feb 27 – Mar 5).   Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Stated Clerk Updates

– TE Ray Medina was ordained and installed as pastor of the Bell Memorial church December 13.

– TE Matthew Camlin was installed as pastor of the New Wilmington church on January 24.

– TE Beverly Cushman (MAL) and her husband David depart February 15 to begin her service in pastoral ministry within the bounds of the Church of Scotland.  TE Bill Stone III (MAL), son of Bill Stone (Neshannock), is also serving in pastoral ministry in the Church of Scotland but remains a member of Shenango.

– RE Marsha Parrish’s (Unity) commission to serve the Oak Grove church has ended after 15 years of pastoral service.  She remains commissioned to serve the Mt. Hermon congregation as pastor and Jameson Hospital as Bereavement Care Coordinator.

– TE Amy Na’s status in service to the Shenango church was changed from installed pastor to Stated Supply.  Amy also serves Shenango SeniorCare in New Wilmington as chaplain.

– The Pulaski congregation voted 30-2 to request dismissal to another Reformed body.

(TE = Teaching Elder; RE = Ruling Elder; CRE = Commissioned Ruling Elder; MAL = Member at Large)

 

2016 IRS Rate

The mileage rate for 2016 will be 54 cents per mile.

 

Annual Reports

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 17, 2016 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms was January 31, 2016.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 12th!

 

Five Talents

The Mission, Communication, and Stewardship Committee of Shenango Presbytery and the New Wilmington Church Mission Committee invite folks from our  congregations to come to the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church Social Hall for a time of fellowship and learning with Sonia Patterson.  The event will be February 6th at 7:00 p.m.  Sonia has been a language interpreter in the Dominican Republic partnership in which folks from our presbytery have been involved for the past 25 years.  More recently, she is the Executive Director of Five Talents, a Christian non-profit that encourages entrepreneurial actions in the lives of women and men in poverty in third world countries in Asia, Africa, and South America.  Several from our presbytery met her a few years ago when they visited the same location in South Sudan that Sonia was visiting.  Come to New Wilmington on Feb. 6th to learn more about a very exciting work God is doing through Sonia and her organization.  She will also be preaching at New Wilmington on Sunday, Feb. 7th at 10:30.   All are invited to both events.

 

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality presents Rev. Larissa Kwong Abazia, Vice-Moderator of the General Assembly PC(USA) and director of Church Relations, Princeton Theological Seminary as our Spiritual Emphasis Westminster speaker on Sunday, February 21, 2016 at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel, Westminster College, New Wilmington, PA. 

The Reverend Larissa Kwong Abazia is a native of New Jersey and graduate of Rutgers University and Princeton Theological Seminary. Upon graduating from seminary, she was honored with the Asian American Ministry Award and the David P. Watermulder Award for Church Leadership. Rev. Kwong Abazia worked as a pastoral care resident at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia before serving congregations in Chicago, Manasquan, New Jersey, and Forest Hills, New York. She now serves as director of church relations at Princeton Theological Seminary

Rev. Kwong Abazia served as a core team member and co-moderator for Racial Ethnic Young Women Together (REYWT) and participated in the Presbyterian Women’s Racial Ethnic Dialogue. She also has worked with That All May Freely Serve, the Chicago Youth Collective, and the Advance Justice Committee of Chicago Presbytery. She currently serves on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) General Assembly Committee on Representation and the Personnel and Worship committees of the Presbytery of New York City. Rev. Kwong Abazia continually seeks ways to equip and empower people of all ages and backgrounds to live into the radical potential of life in community.

As a writer, Rev. Kwong Abazia has coauthored a reflection on readings from the lectionary for the Human Rights Campaign’s “Out In Scripture”; nine supplemental resources for the 2011–2012 Presbyterian Women’s Bible study on the Beatitudes; and an article for Unbound: An Interactive Journal of Social Justice titled, “Ready or Not.” She also has written a chapter in a collection of narratives by young adult clergywomen of color, “Streams Running Uphill: Conversations with Young Clergywomen of Color,” released in March 2014.

 

Extending God’s Welcome to All

The Presbytery of Lake Erie invites you to a day filled with learning – worship, a keynote address from Dr. Amy Oden on Christian hospitality, three workshops, a mission fair, and lunch – all for $15.  The Big Event will be held on March 5, 2016 from 8:45 AM to 3:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant in Erie, PA.  For more information, please visit, http://www.pbylakeerie.org.   Download the brochure.  Download the registration form.

 

Leadership Training Event

For pastors, elders, deacons, and all church leaders – – Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 2:30 – 5:45 PM at the Cranberry Community United Presbyterian Church.  This event will feature Dr. Scott Hagley, Assistant Professor of Missiology at PTS, with workshops for clerks, mentoring, treasurers, leadership, and even a deacon workshop led by Ralph Hawkins.  Contact the presbytery office for a copy of the registration form.

 

THRIVE: Ministry in the New Millennium

April 10-11, 2016 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe, PA featuring Keynote Speaker: Joel Comiskey, Worship Leader: Joshua Price, and Main Speaker: Karen Snavely.  Come and hear from practitioners on the leading edge of ministry in areas including: cell groups, worship, millennial ministry, campus ministry, media & communications, children – youth – and family ministry, and more.  Find out more and register at www.thrive2016.us.

 

Emotional and Spiritual Care in Disasters

This outstanding Chaplain’s training class from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation is geared to help you, first responders, and your community handle the “big stuff” during an emergency event in your community.  It will be held on May 23 & 24 in Hermitage, PA, and there is a $25 discount for registering by March 18^th.   Read more.

 

News From the Churches

Love The Arts!

First Presbyterian Church of Sharon, 600 East State Street, is hosting an “Art Show and Hands – On Art” on Saturday, February 13, 2016 from 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM in their gymnasium and Fellowship Hall.  This event is FREE and open to the public.  Many local artists will have their marvelous work on display and for sale, and a number of the artists and theatre folks will have hands-on stations so children and adults can try their creative side and experience different forms of art.  You might just find that perfect gift for your Valentine!

 

DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN/YOUTH MINISTRIES

Local Presbyterian Church is seeking someone to educate our children and youth in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.  This person will oversee the Christian Education program of our church for ages from high chair to high school.  The individual we seek must have strong Christian beliefs, solid interpersonal and communication skills, along with being an organized, self-starting person capable of accomplishing goals and objectives with minimum supervision.  Must have availability for Sunday worship, Saturday PM and other occasions as necessary.   Previous experience in church education programs is a plus.  Interested applicants should send resume in confidence to:  Personnel Committee, Northminster Presbyterian Church, 2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle, PA 16105  Or send on line to:  office@npcnc.org  Résumés/applications must be received no later than Feb. 19, 2016, for consideration.