This Week:

November 10- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
November 12- 1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
November 16- 9:00 AM PW Coordinating Team, Presbytery Office
November 17- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, Trinity PC, Mercer – Watch for a special eLink tomorrow afternoon with the docket and council minutes!

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Jamestown (Nov 29).  He will be leading a preaching workshop for ordained and lay pastors in the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana (Nov 5-7), and will be participating in a COM/CPM training session sponsored by the synod (Nov 19-20).   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

– TE Bill Crooks and the Trinity congregation are celebrating 35 years of installed ministry together this month.

– TE Kang Na (Westminster College) has been added by our Committee on Ministry to the approved pulpit supply list, available on our website.

– TE Mark Frailey was installed as pastor of Coolspring church on Sunday, October 18, by a commission elected in September.

– TE Tom Clyde’s (Beaver-Butler presbytery) contract to serve the Ebenezer church part-time was renewed by the session and approved by the COM.

– Rev. Rob Guy (Church of God) has been hired half-time by the Wurtemburg church and has been approved by a subgroup of our Committee on Ministry to labor within our bounds.  Rob is a PhD candidate in History and Divinity at Kings College, University of Aberdeen.

–  Ray Medina, candidate for ordination under care of the Presbytery of San Francisco, has been called by the Bell Memorial church and will examined for ordination at our November 17 stated meeting.  Should the way be clear, his first Sunday at Bell Memorial will be November 22.

– TE Matthew Camlin has been called by the New Wilmington church and will transfer from the Upper Ohio Valley presbytery.  Rev. Camlin’s first Sunday at New Wilmington will be December 6.

– The Jamestown session recently voted to place the question of dismissal to another Reformed body before the congregation again on November 15.  The first vote, a year ago, failed at 61%.

– A Pastor Nominating Committee remains active at the Faith church.

(TE = Teaching Elder)

 

First Fireside Chat

All Shenango pastors are invited to our first Fireside Chat — a half-day, one-topic, mini-retreat for our Teaching Elders and CREs to engage a practical matter of pastoral ministry.  Sponsored by our Leadership Development Team, the same folks who plan our Pastor Retreats, our first Chat will be Wednesday, November 11, 9:30am-lunch at the Confluence Coffee House in downtown New Castle.  The topic will be Time Management in ministry: how to balance life, ministry, and technology in the service of Jesus.  Bring a tip or two to share; leave with several in your pocket.  $5 for lunch; no reservations required.

 

EP/SC Evaluation

You are encouraged to complete the attached evaluation form regarding our Executive Presbyter/Stated Clerk, if you have had sufficient contact with him to be able to answer.  Your response will be seen only by the Personnel Committee Chair.  You can mail the completed form by December 31, 2015 to:  Alice Sacherich, 504 Randall Drive, New Castle, PA  16105

 

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is still seeking a few volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  We appreciate those people who have already stepped forward to help, but we still need a few volunteers to cover the afternoon shift on the fourth Tuesday, and other occasional slots that become available. You may choose your shift and the number of times per month is flexible.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376. 

 

Book Swap

Pastors: Look through your library and bring up to ONE box of books to give away or swap at the November 17^th presbytery meeting at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  Don Stanley will be combing through the books during the first part of the meeting to find suitable items to donate to the Don McClure Bible School in Gambella, Ethiopia.  During the pie break, you’ll have a chance to look through the remaining books to find treasures for your own library.  A free swap, no strings attached!  If you have special items that you would like to make sure make it to Ethiopia, please mark them accordingly for Don.  A fun way to help our Ethiopian partners and one another…bring a book, share a book, take a book.

A Noble PW Gathering

The Presbyterian Women of Shenango Presbytery enjoyed the music of local performers Barb & Jeff Noble (pictured) during the fall PW gathering at North Liberty church, on October 17.

 

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

Advent Devotional

The Fellowship Community will soon make available their 2015 Advent Devotional, featuring downloadable PDFs and daily email messages from a variety of authors.  Included in the list of authors are Ray and Judith Hylton, formerly at First, New Castle and now serving in Evanston, IL.  Watch eLink for updates on the availability of this resource!

 

News from the Churches

35 Years

We are celebrating Rev. Bill Crooks 35^th year as pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Mercer.  Come join us on Sunday, November 15, 2015 following 11 AM worship to extend your best wishes and enjoy a piece of cake.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take Out Available!  Call the Church Office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

FREE Choir Music

Oak Grove Church has 4 large boxes of Choir Music FREE to anyone who could use it.  Contact Pastor Marsha at parrisma@yahoo.com or 724-699-1862.

Part-Time Church Administrator Position Available

Third Presbyterian Church in New Castle is seeking a part-time Church Administrator. Approximately 20 hours per week, $12.00 per hour, 2 weeks paid vacation, plus standard state and federal holidays. Qualifications and experience:

• A cheerful disposition, excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks (or equivalent) and basic website design.
• 2-5 years front office and bookkeeping experience preferred, but not required.
• Must be able to self-manage and provide a consistent work schedule.

Please submit a resume and three professional references to Third Presbyterian Church, Attn: Karen Musolino, 1315 E Washington St, New Castle, PA 16101 by Monday, November 23, 2015.

This Week:

November 10- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
November 12- 12:00 PM MCS, New Wilmington PC
1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Jamestown (Nov 29).  He will be leading a preaching workshop for ordained and lay pastors in the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana (Nov 5-7), and will be participating in a COM/CPM training session sponsored by the synod (Nov 19-20).   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

– TE Bill Crooks and the Trinity congregation are celebrating 35 years of installed ministry together this month.

– TE Kang Na (Westminster College) has been added by our Committee on Ministry to the approved pulpit supply list, available on our website.

– TE Mark Frailey was installed as pastor of Coolspring church on Sunday, October 18, by a commission elected in September.

– TE Tom Clyde’s (Beaver-Butler presbytery) contract to serve the Ebenezer church part-time was renewed by the session and approved by the COM.

– Rev. Rob Guy (Church of God) has been hired half-time by the Wurtemburg church and has been approved by a subgroup of our Committee on Ministry to labor within our bounds.  Rob is a PhD candidate in History and Divinity at Kings College, University of Aberdeen.

–  Ray Medina, candidate for ordination under care of the Presbytery of San Francisco, has been called by the Bell Memorial church and will examined for ordination at our November 17 stated meeting.  Should the way be clear, his first Sunday at Bell Memorial will be November 22.

– TE Matthew Camlin has been called by the New Wilmington church and will transfer from the Upper Ohio Valley presbytery.  Rev. Camlin’s first Sunday at New Wilmington will be December 6.

– The Jamestown session recently voted to place the question of dismissal to another Reformed body before the congregation again on November 15.  The first vote, a year ago, failed at 61%.

– A Pastor Nominating Committee remains active at the Faith church.

 

(TE = Teaching Elder)

 

First Fireside Chat

All Shenango pastors are invited to our first Fireside Chat — a half-day, one-topic, mini-retreat for our Teaching Elders and CREs to engage a practical matter of pastoral ministry.  Sponsored by our Leadership Development Team, the same folks who plan our Pastor Retreats, our first Chat will be Wednesday, November 11, 9:30am-lunch at the Confluence Coffee House in downtown New Castle.  The topic will be Time Management in ministry: how to balance life, ministry, and technology in the service of Jesus.  Bring a tip or two to share; leave with several in your pocket.  $5 for lunch; no reservations required.

 

EP/SC Evaluation

You are encouraged to complete the attached evaluation form regarding our Executive Presbyter/Stated Clerk, if you have had sufficient contact with him to be able to answer.  Your response will be seen only by the Personnel Committee Chair.  You can mail the completed form by December 31, 2015 to:  Alice Sacherich, 504 Randall Drive, New Castle, PA  16105

 

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is still seeking a few volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  We appreciate those people who have already stepped forward to help, but we still need a few volunteers to cover the afternoon shift on the fourth Tuesday, and other occasional slots that become available. You may choose your shift and the number of times per month is flexible.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376. 

 

Book Swap

Pastors: Look through your library and bring up to ONE box of books to give away or swap at the November 17^th presbytery meeting at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  Don Stanley will be combing through the books during the first part of the meeting to find suitable items to donate to the Don McClure Bible School in Gambella, Ethiopia.  During the pie break, you’ll have a chance to look through the remaining books to find treasures for your own library.  A free swap, no strings attached!  If you have special items that you would like to make sure make it to Ethiopia, please mark them accordingly for Don.  A fun way to help our Ethiopian partners and one another…bring a book, share a book, take a book.

 

Fall PW Gathering

Rev. Bob McCreight (shown here) brings a meditation from scripture during the fall gathering of Shenango’s Presbyterian Women, held at the North Liberty Church, where Bob serves as pastor.  The day was filled with scripture, prayer, music, and mission updates.  The spring PW gathering will be Saturday, April 16, 2016.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

 

Eugene Carson Blake Scholarship for Ecumenical Formation

The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey will award a scholarship in honor of the former Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church in the USA.  One Presbyterian Church (USA) student applying for admission for the 2016-2017 academic year will be nominated.  Learn more.

News from the Churches

175^th Anniversary

Mt. Hermon Presbyterian Church (3116 Frew Mill Road, New Castle) will celebrate their 175^th Anniversary on Sunday, November 8^th with a special worship service at 11:00 AM.  Special music by “The Walkers” will be featured, and the service will be followed by light refreshments.  Please join them, you are a blessed part of their history.  Any questions, contact Karen Lynn at 724-924-9431.

 

35 Years

We are celebrating Rev. Bill Crooks 35^th year as pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Mercer.  Come join us on Sunday, November 15, 2015 following 11 AM worship to extend your best wishes and enjoy a piece of cake.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take Out Available!  Call the Church Office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

FREE Choir Music

Oak Grove Church has 4 large boxes of Choir Music FREE to anyone who could use it.  Contact Pastor Marsha at parrisma@yahoo.com or 724-699-1862.

 

This Week:

November 4- 9:30 AM Christian Education, Presbytery Office

 

First Fireside Chat

All Shenango pastors are invited to our first Fireside Chat — a half-day, one-topic, mini-retreat for our Teaching Elders and CREs to engage a practical matter of pastoral ministry.  Sponsored by our Leadership Development Team, the same folks who plan our Pastor Retreats, our first Chat will be Wednesday, November 11, 9:30am-lunch at the Confluence Coffee House in downtown New Castle.  The topic will be Time Management in ministry: how to balance life, ministry, and technology in the service of Jesus.  Bring a tip or two to share; leave with several in your pocket.  $5 for lunch; no reservations required.

 

2016 Minimum Effective Salary

At our September presbytery meeting, the body approved a 2016 minimum effective salary for full-time installed pastors of $48,617.  This figure is for “effective salary” and does not include other costs associated with normal Terms of Call for installed pastors, such as participation in the Board of Pensions benefit program, etc.  Although many congregations use the percentage increase approved by presbytery as a basis for raises for pastors or church staff, note that only the minimum effective salary dollar amount is mandated by the Book of Order.  For questions about these figures, contact the presbytery office or a member of the Committee on Ministry.  For a copy of the 2016 TOC form, click here.

EP/SC Evaluation

You are encouraged to complete the attached evaluation form regarding our Executive Presbyter/Stated Clerk, if you have had sufficient contact with him to be able to answer.  Your response will be seen only by the Personnel Committee Chair.  You can give the completed form to Elder Alice Sacherich at the November presbytery meeting, or mail it by December 31, 2015 to:  Alice Sacherich, 504 Randall Drive, New Castle, PA  16105

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is still seeking a few volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  We appreciate those people who have already stepped forward to help, but we still need a few volunteers to cover the afternoon shift on the fourth Tuesday, and other occasional slots that become available. You may choose your shift and the number of times per month is flexible.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376. 

 

Order Advent Calendars by Friday!

Presbyterians Today has created a special Advent calendar, meant to reawaken in you the beauty and spirituality of Advent.  Each day features a Scripture reading, meditation, and prayer, and the calendar itself is filled with the poetic reflections of author Rachel Srubas and the vivid, contemplative watercolors of illustrator Roy DeLeon.  You can order copies of this calendar through the Presbytery Office for just $2.20 per copy (cover price through Presbyterians Today will be $4 plus shipping).  Your order must be in the office before October 30^th to ensure delivery prior to the start of Advent.  (If we receive orders for more than 100 calendars, the price will drop and the difference will be refunded.) PT Advent Calendar Order Form

 

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

Hospice Volunteer Training

Please consider giving a kind hand and tender heart to others when they need it most, when they are terminally ill.  Sharon Regional Health System Hospice and Palliative Care will begin a Volunteer Training series on November 4^th.  This series of classes will run on November 4, 11, and 18 from 9 AM to NOON.  All adults are welcome.  If you are interested in learning more about volunteering for Hospice or attending Volunteer Training, please call Erin Zahniser at 724-308-7322 any weekday 8 AM – 5 PM or email erin_zahniser@chs.net.

Eugene Carson Blake Scholarship for Ecumenical Formation

The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey will award a scholarship in honor of the former Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of the United Presbyterian Church in the USA.  One Presbyterian Church (USA) student applying for admission for the 2016-2017 academic year will be nominated.  Learn more.

News from the Churches

175^th Anniversary

Rich Hill Presbyterian Church, Volant will celebrate their 175^th Anniversary this week.

 

35 Years

We are celebrating Rev. Bill Crooks 35^th year as pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Mercer.  Come join us on Sunday, November 15, 2015 following 11 AM worship to extend your best wishes and enjoy a piece of cake.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take Out Available!  Call the Church Office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

Rummage Sale

Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer is having a Rummage Sale on Friday, October 30 from 8 AM – 4 PM and Saturday, October 31 from 8 AM – NOON.  Saturday is half price day with clothing $1/bag.  Just east of the Mercer Courthouse.

Special Concert to Celebrate All Saints’ Day

Sunday, November 1st, is All Saints’ Day when we remember and give thanks for those brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone to the Church triumphant.  One musical way to celebrate All Saints’ Day is with a Requiem.  The Choirs of First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and New Wilmington Presbyterian Church, joined by friends from the Shenango Valley Chorale and a Chamber Orchestra, all under the direction of Edgar Groves, will perform “A German Requiem” by Johannes Brahms on Nov. 1st at 7:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street in Sharon.

The Brahms “Requiem” does not follow the traditional Requiem Mass, but instead Brahms took passages of Scripture from Martin Luther’s German Bible and set them to music.  Brahms wanted to emphasize the resurrection, not the judgment day, so his choices of Scripture and his music are more hopeful.  It is a lovely composition, well worth hearing.  This performance will be in English, and there will be program notes in the Bulletin.  As a special treat, at 7:00 PM there will be “Cookies and Coffee” prior to the performance, and Ed Groves will have a brief talk about the Brahms“Requiem” to help you enjoy the performance even more.

This concert is FREE and open to the public.  We hope you will celebrate All Saints’ Day with us in Sharon as you listen to a truly beautiful Requiem.

 

Choir Director

Tower Presbyterian Church is seeking someone willing to lead our congregation in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. They will oversee the music programs of our church, including both contemporary and traditional worship, as well as occasional special worship services.

They must have availability for Sunday worship, Wednesday night rehearsals and other occasions as necessary.   Send resume to Tower Presbyterian Church, an  ECO Congregation, 248 S. Broad St., Grove City, PA  16127 or clerk.towrchurch@zoominternet.net.  Position available January 1, 2016.

FREE Choir Music

Oak Grove Church has 4 large boxes of Choir Music FREE to anyone who could use it.  Contact Pastor Marsha at parrisma@yahoo.com or 724-699-1862.

Anniversary Celebration

The congregation of Oak Grove Presbyterian Church will celebrate their 140 year history this Sunday, October 25th at 11:00AM with a special worship service. Special guests will be T R Walker and Bob and Ruth Miller.  Pastor Marsha Parrish extends a welcome to all.

FREE

Oak Grove also has 4 large boxes of choir music FREE to anyone who could use it. Contact Pastor Marsha at parrisma@yahoo.com or 724-699-1862.

Shenango Presbytery is seeking a Young Adult Advisory Delegate to represent our presbytery at the 222nd General Assembly in Portland, Oregon, June 18-25, 2016.  To be eligible, a YAAD must be between the ages of seventeen and twenty-three years on the date the General Assembly convenes. Applications are taken online, with a deadline of Nov 10, 2015.

This Week:

October 20- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
October 21- 9:30 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office
October 22- 9:00 AM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
October 27- 9:30 AM Council, Rich Hill PC

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, preached at the Rich Hill and Harlansburg churches on October 4. He attended the national PCUSA Polity Conference (October 9-12) in Portland, OR, an advance meeting for the 2016 General Assembly, also in Portland. He will be preaching at Ebenezer church (October 18) and visiting Stoneboro church (November 1).  With members of presbytery’s Sudan Team, he will be attending the national PCUSA Sudan Mission Network meeting in Louisville (October 19-20).  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.

 

2016 Minimum Effective Salary

At our September presbytery meeting, the body approved a 2016 minimum effective salary for full-time installed pastors of $48,617.  This figure is for “effective salary” and does not include other costs associated with normal Terms of Call for installed pastors, such as participation in the Board of Pensions benefit program, etc.  Although many congregations use the percentage increase approved by presbytery as a basis for raises for pastors or church staff, note that only the minimum effective salary dollar amount is mandated by the Book of Order.  For questions about these figures, contact the presbytery office or a member of the Committee on Ministry.  For a copy of the 2016 TOC form, click here.

 

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is still seeking a few volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  We appreciate those people who have already stepped forward to help, but we still need a few volunteers to cover the afternoon shift on the fourth Tuesday, and other occasional slots that become available. You may choose your shift and the number of times per month is flexible.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376. 

 

Sudan Mission Network

Shenango Presbytery was represented by 5 persons at a recent Sudan Mission Network meeting in Louisville, Kentucky — an annual gathering of Presbyterians with interest in and partnerships with the Presbyterian churches in Sudan and South Sudan, Africa.  The gathering was addressed by Rev. Peter, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of South Sudan (pictured), who discussed the grave challenges of following Jesus and seeking peace in a nation struggling with tribal violence and political corruption.  Here in Shenango, our Sudan Partnership Team meets monthly and is led by Denise Sciuto.

 

 

 

 

 

Pastor Retreat

Members of the New Wilmington church Praise Team (pictured here) led worship for our pastors during our fall overnight Pastors Retreat, held at Villa Maria.  Sponsored by our Leadership Development Team, our retreats offer fellowship, learning, and worship for our Teaching Elders and Commissioned Ruling Elders serving as pastors in our 49 congregations.  The next retreat will be April 1-3, 2016, a weekend marriage enrichment retreat for our pastors and their spouses.

 

 

 

 

 

Order Advent Calendars by next Friday!

Presbyterians Today has created a special Advent calendar, meant to reawaken in you the beauty and spirituality of Advent.  Each day features a Scripture reading, meditation, and prayer, and the calendar itself is filled with the poetic reflections of author Rachel Srubas and the vivid, contemplative watercolors of illustrator Roy DeLeon.  You can order copies of this calendar through the Presbytery Office for just $2.20 per copy (cover price through Presbyterians Today will be $4 plus shipping).  Your order must be in the office before October 30^th to ensure delivery prior to the start of Advent.  (If we receive orders for more than 100 calendars, the price will drop and the difference will be refunded.) PT Advent Calendar Order Form

 

Discerning Your Call to Missions

Join us for this FREE one-day seminar to explore your call to missions!  October 31, 2015 from 9 AM – 4 PM at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, John Knox Room.  This workshop is designed to help you explore a call to mission – spend the day listening, studying God’s Word, and praying in groups.  This year’s event features the Rev. Don Dawson, Director of the World Mission Initiative; Stephanie Bell, spiritual director; and Michael and Rachel Weller, missionaries in Ethiopia.  RSVP by October 26 to wmi@pts.edu.  This workshop is FREE, but it may cost you your life!

 

Investigating and Exploring Spiritual Connection in Daily Life with Dr. Lynn Underwood.

(Oct. 29, 7-9 pm and Oct. 30, 8:30 – 12:30 pm).  Attached is a full brochure.  The price is very reasonable. CE’s available for multiple professions.  Co-sponsored by Pneuma Institute, Chatham University, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute.  Register Online at:  www.ppi-online.org/event/Lynn-Underwood    This will be very helpful for learning possible ways to engage folks about different ways of describing or talking about spiritual experiences.  Also Underwood has a great research instrument that can be used in multiple professions for research as well as for practical applications.  See Brochure for more details.

 

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

 

News from the Churches

Mission Trip Report

Shenango and Northminster Presbyterian Churches in New Castle took a joint mission trip to New York City this past summer.  You can read their trip report and view photos on the Synod website: http://www.syntrinity.org/featured/shenango-northminster-churches-take-to-the-streets-of-new-york/

 

175^th Anniversary

Mt. Hermon Presbyterian Church (3116 Frew Mill Road, New Castle) will celebrate their 175^th Anniversary on November 8, 2015 with a special worship service at 11:00 AM.  Special music by “The Walkers”, light refreshments following.  Please join us…you are a blessed part of our history.  If you need to contact us, call Karen Lynn at 724-924-9431.

 

35 Years

We are celebrating Rev. Bill Crooks 35^th year as pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Mercer.  Come join us on Sunday, November 15, 2015 following 11 AM worship to extend your best wishes and enjoy a piece of cake.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take Out Available!  Call the Church Office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

Special Concert to Celebrate All Saints’ Day

Sunday, November 1st, is All Saints’ Day when we remember and give thanks for those brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone to the Church triumphant.  One musical way to celebrate All Saints’ Day is with a Requiem.  The Choirs of First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and New Wilmington Presbyterian Church, joined by friends from the Shenango Valley Chorale and a Chamber Orchestra, all under the direction of Edgar Groves, will perform “A German Requiem” by Johannes Brahms on Nov. 1st at 7:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street in Sharon.

The Brahms “Requiem” does not follow the traditional Requiem Mass, but instead Brahms took passages of Scripture from Martin Luther’s German Bible and set them to music.  Brahms wanted to emphasize the resurrection, not the judgment day, so his choices of Scripture and his music are more hopeful.  It is a lovely composition, well worth hearing.  This performance will be in English, and there will be program notes in the Bulletin.  As a special treat, at 7:00 PM there will be “Cookies and Coffee” prior to the performance, and Ed Groves will have a brief talk about the Brahms“Requiem” to help you enjoy the performance even more.

This concert is FREE and open to the public.  We hope you will celebrate All Saints’ Day with us in Sharon as you listen to a truly beautiful Requiem.

 

Choir Director

Tower Presbyterian Church is seeking someone willing to lead our congregation in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. They will oversee the music programs of our church, including both contemporary and traditional worship, as well as occasional special worship services.

They must have availability for Sunday worship, Wednesday night rehearsals and other occasions as necessary.   Send resume to Tower Presbyterian Church, an  ECO Congregation, 248 S. Broad St., Grove City, PA  16127 or clerk.towrchurch@zoominternet.net.  Position available January 1, 2016.

 

Volunteers Needed

Shenango Presbytery is still seeking a few volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  We appreciate those people who have already stepped forward to help, but we still need a few volunteers to cover the afternoon shift on the fourth Tuesday, and other occasional slots that become available. You may choose your shift and the number of times per month is flexible.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376.

 

Evensong

Unity Presbyterian Church will host a Potluck and Hymn Sing this Sunday evening.  The potluck will begin at 5:30 and hymn singing at 6:15.  Come lift your voice with us in singing the hymns of the faith.

 

Mission Trip Report

Shenango and Northminster Presbyterian Churches in New Castle took a joint mission trip to New York City this past summer.  You can read their trip report and view photos on the Synod website: http://www.syntrinity.org/featured/shenango-northminster-churches-take-to-the-streets-of-new-york/

 

Order Advent Calendars

Presbyterians Today has created a special Advent calendar, meant to reawaken in you the beauty and spirituality of Advent.  Each day features a Scripture reading, meditation, and prayer, and the calendar itself is filled with the poetic reflections of author Rachel Srubas and the vivid, contemplative watercolors of illustrator Roy DeLeon.  You can order copies of this calendar through the Presbytery Office for just $2.20 per copy (cover price through Presbyterians Today will be $4 plus shipping).  Your order must be in the office before October 30^th to ensure delivery prior to the start of Advent.  (If we receive orders for more than 100 calendars, the price will drop and the difference will be refunded.) PT Advent Calendar Order Form

 

This Week:

October 20- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
October 21- 9:30 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office
October 22- 9:00 AM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, preached at the Rich Hill and Harlansburg churches on October 4. He will be attending the national PCUSA Polity Conference (October 9-12) in Portland, OR, an advance meeting for the 2016 General Assembly, also in Portland. He will be preaching at Ebenezer church (October 18) and visiting Stoneboro church (November 1).  With members of presbytery’s Sudan Team, he will be attending the national PCUSA Sudan Mission Network meeting in Louisville (October 19-20).  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

– TE Mark Frailey will be installed as pastor of Coolspring church on Sunday, October 18, 3pm, by a commission elected by the presbytery in September.

– TE Mark Thompson (MAL) and TE Michael Spicuzza (MAL) have been added by our Committee on Ministry to the approved pulpit supply list, available here.

– Rev. Dan Stinson (United Methodist) will this month complete his service as Stated Supply to the Wurtemburg church, and RE Bill King will likewise finish his term as Interim Pastor to the Bell Memorial church.

– Our presbytery mourns the loss of four retired Teaching Elders who died in recent months:  Revs. Malcolm Vandevort, William Bovard, William “Bill” Hudson, and Richard “Dick” Baker.

– Pastor Nominating Committees remain in place at the New Wilmington, Bell Memorial, and Faith churches.

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

 

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is seeking several volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  The shifts needed are 9 to noon or noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays or Thursdays (four shifts per week are available for choosing) and the number of times per month will be flexible.  Volunteers will begin serving in September.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376.

 

Another Celebrate Sudan

Dozens of PCUSA and ECO Presbyterians gathered Sunday night at East Main Presbyterian Church to celebrate our longstanding partnership with Sudan and South Sudan, in the horn of Africa.  PCUSA Regional Mission Coordinator Rev. Michael Weller updated us on the church in both countries.  Mr. Tokmac Abol (pictured here), a Sudanese-American who lives and works in Erie, PA, also addressed the gathering with updates on the “Lost Boys” of Sudan, to whom Abol served as a case manager when they first arrived in the States.  The gathering raised over $2400 for support of Nile Theological College and Gereif Bible School.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pastors Retreat

Twenty-five of our pastors recently enjoyed a wonderful two-day retreat at the Villa Maria Conference Center with Rev. Don Dawson (pictured here), who led sessions on “cultivating a missionary posture in our congregations.”  Don is a son of Shenango Presbytery, a member of Pittsburgh Presbytery, director of the New Wilmington Mission Conference, and director of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary.  These twice-a-year two-day retreats are sponsored by our presbytery’s Leadership Development Team.

 

 

 

 

 

Order Advent Calendars

Presbyterians Today has created a special Advent calendar, meant to reawaken in you the beauty and spirituality of Advent.  Each day features a Scripture reading, meditation, and prayer, and the calendar itself is filled with the poetic reflections of author Rachel Srubas and the vivid, contemplative watercolors of illustrator Roy DeLeon.  You can order copies of this calendar through the Presbytery Office for just $2.20 per copy (cover price through Presbyterians Today will be $4 plus shipping).  Your order must be in the office before October 30^th to ensure delivery prior to the start of Advent.  (If we receive orders for more than 100 calendars, the price will drop and the difference will be refunded.)  Click here for the order form.

 

Alan Adams In Alaska

The Rev. Alan Adams is the Executive Presbyter serving the Beaver-Butler Presbytery, our neighbor to the south. Made up of 70 churches and around 9,500 members, Beaver-Butler is a mostly rural presbytery serving many small country churches and medium-sized town churches. This has been a blessing for Alan because his call to ministry began with the sense that he was being called to smaller rural churches that struggle to get and keep consistent pastoral leadership.  That’s what made his six weeks serving the Yakutat Presbyterian Church such a meaningful experience. While the Alaskan peninsula is nearly six times the size of Rhode Island, its total population officially numbers about 600. Only ten years ago that population was over 800 but several factors have made it difficult for local residents to remain in the community. First, the community is remote and accessible only by ferry part of the year and by air when weather permits. Second, the population has been decreasing.

To read more about Alan’s ministry in Yakutat, click here.

 

Discerning Your Call to Missions

Join us for this FREE one-day seminar to explore your call to missions!  October 31, 2015 from 9 AM – 4 PM at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, John Knox Room.  This workshop is designed to help you explore a call to mission – spend the day listening, studying God’s Word, and praying in groups.  This year’s event features the Rev. Don Dawson, Director of the World Mission Initiative; Stephanie Bell, spiritual director; and Michael and Rachel Weller, missionaries in Ethiopia.  RSVP by October 26 to wmi@pts.edu.  This workshop is FREE, but it may cost you your life!

 

Investigating and Exploring Spiritual Connection in Daily Life with Dr. Lynn Underwood.

(Oct. 29, 7-9 pm and Oct. 30, 8:30 – 12:30 pm).  Attached is a full brochure.  The price is very reasonable. CE’s available for multiple professions.  Co-sponsored by Pneuma Institute, Chatham University, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute.  Register Online at:  www.ppi-online.org/event/Lynn-Underwood    This will be very helpful for learning possible ways to engage folks about different ways of describing or talking about spiritual experiences.  Also Underwood has a great research instrument that can be used in multiple professions for research as well as for practical applications.  See Brochure for more details.

 

Getting In Shape Fiscally

The Board of Pensions will present a one-day financial planning seminar in PTS’s McNaugher Lounge on November 6 (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM).  Seating is on a first come – first served basis.  $10.00 per person event fee.  Register by October 9^th athttp://www.cvent.com/events/getting-in-shape-fiscally-pittsburgh-pa/event-summary-ee0414db084643c9b1f55cac0fc76bfd.aspx?i=099692a1-c5c2-438d-a381-2694f8ca8ab2

 

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

 

News from the Churches

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take Out Available!  Call the Church Office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

Special Concert to Celebrate All Saints’ Day

Sunday, November 1st, is All Saints’ Day when we remember and give thanks for those brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone to the Church triumphant.  One musical way to celebrate All Saints’ Day is with a Requiem.  The Choirs of First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and New Wilmington Presbyterian Church, joined by friends from the Shenango Valley Chorale and a Chamber Orchestra, all under the direction of Edgar Groves, will perform “A German Requiem” by Johannes Brahms on Nov. 1st at 7:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street in Sharon.

The Brahms “Requiem” does not follow the traditional Requiem Mass, but instead Brahms took passages of Scripture from Martin Luther’s German Bible and set them to music.  Brahms wanted to emphasize the resurrection, not the judgment day, so his choices of Scripture and his music are more hopeful.  It is a lovely composition, well worth hearing.  This performance will be in English, and there will be program notes in the Bulletin.  As a special treat, at 7:00 PM there will be “Cookies and Coffee” prior to the performance, and Ed Groves will have a brief talk about the Brahms“Requiem” to help you enjoy the performance even more.

This concert is FREE and open to the public.  We hope you will celebrate All Saints’ Day with us in Sharon as you listen to a truly beautiful Requiem.

 

Choir Director

Tower Presbyterian Church is seeking someone willing to lead our congregation in the worship of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. They will oversee the music programs of our church, including both contemporary and traditional worship, as well as occasional special worship services.

They must have availability for Sunday worship, Wednesday night rehearsals and other occasions as necessary.   Send resume to Tower Presbyterian Church, an  ECO Congregation, 248 S. Broad St., Grove City, PA  16127 or clerk.towrchurch@zoominternet.net.  Position available January 1, 2016.

 

 

Stated Clerk Updates – CORRECTION

– TE Mark Frailey will be installed as pastor of Coolspring church on Sunday, October 18, 3pm, by a commission elected by the presbytery in September.

This Week:

October 7- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
October 8- 12:00 PM MCS Committee, New Wilmington PC
1:00 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
October 9- The Preparation for Ministry Committee meeting has been cancelled.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, preached at the Rich Hill and Harlansburg churches on October 4. He will be attending the national PCUSA Polity Conference (October 9-12) in Portland, OR, an advance meeting for the 2016 General Assembly, also in Portland. He will be preaching at Ebenezer church (October 18) and visiting Stoneboro church (November 1).  With members of presbytery’s Sudan Team, he will be attending the national PCUSA Sudan Mission Network meeting in Louisville (October 19-20).  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

– TE Mark Frailey will be installed as pastor of Coolspring church on Sunday, October 18, 6pm, by a commission elected by the presbytery in September.

– TE Mark Thompson (MAL) and TE Michael Spicuzza (MAL) have been added by our Committee on Ministry to the approved pulpit supply list, available here.

– Rev. Dan Stinson (United Methodist) will this month complete his service as Stated Supply to the Wurtemburg church, and RE Bill King will likewise finish his term as Interim Pastor to the Bell Memorial church.

–  Our presbytery mourns the loss of four retired Teaching Elders who died in recent months:  Revs. Malcolm Vandevort, William Bovard, William “Bill” Hudson, and Richard “Dick” Baker.

– Pastor Nominating Committees remain in place at the New Wilmington, Bell Memorial, and Faith churches.

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

 

Seeking Volunteers

Shenango Presbytery is seeking several volunteers to assist the staff at the Presbytery office in answering the phone and re-shelving resource materials.  This way there will always be at least 2 people in the building.  The shifts needed are 9 to noon or noon to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays or Thursdays (four shifts per week are available for choosing) and the number of times per month will be flexible.  Volunteers will begin serving in September.  Orientation will be provided.  If interested contact Dave Hoye at davehoye@zoominternet.net or 724-475-2021 or Alice Sacherich at mathmomretired@comcast.net or 724-652-1376.

Another Celebrate Sudan

Dozens of PCUSA and ECO Presbyterians gathered Sunday night at East Main Presbyterian Church to celebrate our longstanding partnership with Sudan and South Sudan, in the horn of Africa.  PCUSA Regional Mission Coordinator Rev. Michael Weller updated us on the church in both countries.  Mr. Tokmac Abol (pictured here), a Sudanese-American who lives and works in Erie, PA, also addressed the gathering with updates on the “Lost Boys” of Sudan, to whom Abol served as a case manager when they first arrived in the States.  The gathering raised over $2400 for support of Nile Theological College and Gereif Bible School.

 

Order Advent Calendars

Presbyterians Today has created a special Advent calendar, meant to reawaken in you the beauty and spirituality of Advent.  Each day features a Scripture reading, meditation, and prayer, and the calendar itself is filled with the poetic reflections of author Rachel Srubas and the vivid, contemplative watercolors of illustrator Roy DeLeon.  You can order copies of this calendar through the Presbytery Office for just $2.20 per copy (cover price through Presbyterians Today will be $4 plus shipping).  Your order must be in the office before October 30^th to ensure delivery prior to the start of Advent.  (If we receive orders for more than 100 calendars, the price will drop and the difference will be refunded.)  Click here for the order form.

Alan Adams In Alaska

The Rev. Alan Adams is the Executive Presbyter serving the Beaver-Butler Presbytery, our neighbor to the south. Made up of 70 churches and around 9,500 members, Beaver-Butler is a mostly rural presbytery serving many small country churches and medium-sized town churches. This has been a blessing for Alan because his call to ministry began with the sense that he was being called to smaller rural churches that struggle to get and keep consistent pastoral leadership.  That’s what made his six weeks serving the Yakutat Presbyterian Church such a meaningful experience. While the Alaskan peninsula is nearly six times the size of Rhode Island, its total population officially numbers about 600. Only ten years ago that population was over 800 but several factors have made it difficult for local residents to remain in the community. First, the community is remote and accessible only by ferry part of the year and by air when weather permits. Second, the population has been decreasing.

To read more about Alan’s ministry in Yakutat, click here.

 Discerning Your Call to Missions

Join us for this FREE one-day seminar to explore your call to missions!  October 31, 2015 from 9 AM – 4 PM at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, John Knox Room.  This workshop is designed to help you explore a call to mission – spend the day listening, studying God’s Word, and praying in groups.  RSVP by October 26 to wmi@pts.edu.

 

Investigating and Exploring Spiritual Connection in Daily Life with Dr. Lynn Underwood.

(Oct. 29, 7-9 pm and Oct. 30, 8:30 – 12:30 pm).  Attached is a full brochure.  The price is very reasonable. CE’s available for multiple professions.  Co-sponsored by Pneuma Institute, Chatham University, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and Pittsburgh Pastoral Institute.  Register Online at:  www.ppi-online.org/event/Lynn-Underwood    This will be very helpful for learning possible ways to engage folks about different ways of describing or talking about spiritual experiences.  Also Underwood has a great research instrument that can be used in multiple professions for research as well as for practical applications.  See Brochure for more details.

Getting In Shape Fiscally

The Board of Pensions will present a one-day financial planning seminar in PTS’s McNaugher Lounge on November 6 (8:30 AM – 5:00 PM).  Seating is on a first come – first served basis.  $10.00 per person event fee.  Register by October 9^th at http://www.cvent.com/events/getting-in-shape-fiscally-pittsburgh-pa/event-summary-ee0414db084643c9b1f55cac0fc76bfd.aspx?i=099692a1-c5c2-438d-a381-2694f8ca8ab2

Annual Enrollment: Time to Check Your Benefits Coverage

Now through November 13^th is your chance to review, choose, and change your benefits coverage.  To review your current benefits, log on to Benefits Connect.

 

News from the Churches

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main Street, Bessemer) will be holding a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 14, 2015 from 5 – 7 PM.  Proceeds to benefit the Church’s General Fun.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or Take