This Week:

July 9- 1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
July 13, 15, and 17 – Annual Audit – The Conference Room will NOT available for meetings.

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching this month at Moravia (July 12).  He will be the chaplain for a week of camp at Westminster Highlands (July 6-10) and will be participating in the annual Carpenter’s Project in Ellwood City (July 13-17).  During the New Wilmington Mission Conference (July 18-25), he will be hosting two pastors from the Iglesia Evangelica Dominicana (in the Dominican Republic) who will be Conference participants.  He will be attending the PCUSA Big Tent Conference in Knoxville, TN (July 29-31).  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session or Deacon meetings.  Schedule a fall 2015 Sunday or meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

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.

Dominican Guests

Shenango is proud to be hosting two pastors from the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana for the New Wilmington Mission Conference.  Revs. Nelson Rodriguez and Sairy Marte will participate in the Conference, bring greetings from our IED partners, and preach in two of our Shenango congregations.  On July 26, Nelson will preach at Hillside in Greenville and Sairy will preach at North Liberty, Grove City.  Want to meet them?  Come to Shenango’s NWMC reception on Sunday, July 19, 5pm, in the Social Hall of the New Wilmington church.  There you can meet our Dominican guests as well as many other mission co-workers supported by our churches.  Persons from at least four of our congregations have participated in a 20-year partnership with an IED on the northern coast of the island.

Potluck for the Newlyweds

Teresa Kendall will be joining her husband, Tom Gomola, for a potluck after worship on Sunday, July 19^th, at Leesburg ECO Church.  Festivities will begin at NOON.  To our Shenango friends: “Come and visit…We’d love to see you!”

NWMC starts Saturday!

The 110^th Annual New Wilmington Mission Conference will take place July 18-25 at Westminster College.  Get more information on speakers at http://www.nwmcmission.org.

Prayer Chain List

Our EP Ralph Hawkins sends occasional (public) prayer concerns to some of the prayer groups that meet in our presbytery churches.  Currently Calvin, Lebanon, First New Castle, Bell Memorial, Sandy Lake, First Sharon, Third New Castle, Stoneboro, and New Wilmington churches are included.  If your congregation has a prayer ministry and would like to be included in these request, please let Ralph know at ralph@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.

300^th Anniversary of Our Synod

The Synod of the Trinity, which includes Shenango Presbytery, is gearing up to celebrate its 300th anniversary.  Mike Givler, with the Synod, writes, “Because the history of our churches is what makes up the history of the Synod, we’re looking for people who have a passion for history to help us gather information and help us celebrate. I have been in touch with all of our presbyteries looking for volunteers to assist us in this project and I have received a few names. If you or someone you know would be interested in helping out, let me know. And please spread the word that we are looking for volunteers. After all, it’s the people in the pews who helped shape what the Synod of the Trinity is today.”  Interested in history and willing to help?  Contact our EP Ralph in the presbytery office: ralph@shenango.org or 724-528-1610

Fellowship Community

The Lebanon and Jamestown congregations have found the commitments and the resources of the Fellowship Community (formerly “Fellowship of Presbyterians”) to be an asset in our present denominational environment.  Both churches have joined this movement; likely other Shenango churches will as well.  I will be attending the National Gathering in August and would glad for other Shenango leaders to come along.  Check out their website and reach out to pastors Augie Hurst (Lebanon) or Don Stanely (Jamestown), or to me, for more information. — Ralph

Save the Date – Egypt Partnership Network

Presbyterian World Mission is pleased to invite you to the first meeting of the Egypt Partnership Network, August 5-8, 2015 on the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  The program will include updates from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Egypt, discussion of the PCUSA mission partnerships in Egypt, as well as opportunities for PCUSA congregations and constituents to be involved.  More details, including registration information, are forthcoming.

Steve and Brenda Stelle Visiting Churches This Summer

In July and August, Steve and Brenda will be back in the United States to visit churches and share with their members about their experiences in Dembi Dollo.  Please check with your sessions, mission committees and congregation members to set up a time for the Stelles to meet with your church.  They very much appreciate the financial support they receive both from congregations and individual contributors and hope to share the story of their ministry in Ethiopia with all of you. To set up a visit, contact Steve atstevestelle826@gmail.com.

The Bible in 90 Days

 The presbytery’s Christian Education and Evangelism Committees are encouraging churches in the presbytery to participate in the Bible in 90 Days this fall. This whole-church challenge is designed like the ultimate book club—everyone in the church reads the Bible, cover to cover, in just 12 pages a day. Each week, small groups gather to discuss the week’s readings. The weekly sermons are also focused on the readings. This challenge has the potential to be a transformative moment for our churches as our people read God’s word and take on a meaningful challenge together.  Read more here!

Financial Well-Being Retreat

August 17 and 18 at Montreat Conference Center…dedicated to helping active Board of Pensions Benefits Plan members achieve better stewardship of personal and church finances.  For more information, and to register by Friday, July 17, click here.

Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity 3^rd Annual Golf Outing

Saturday, September 5^th at the Pine Grove Golf Course (38 Fairway Drive, Grove City, PA).  Shotgun Scramble, 8 AM start.  Pre-register by August 28^th for Early Bird registration fees.  100% of the proceeds will stay in our community and go into our next home.  Contact Chad Fette for more information at 724-301-2125 or dcfette@gmail.com.

News from the Churches

Copier Available

Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church has a copier available.  It was purchased in 2007 for $2800.  It is still in good working order; our needs have just surpassed its abilities.  It is a Ricoh 2020D with 4 paper trays and bypass tray and a fax machine.  It comes with 2 cartridges of toner.  We are asking $400 or best offer.

Clown Ministry Props Available

Northminster Presbyterian Church’s Clown Ministry is no longer functioning.  They have make-up, props, manuals, etc. to donate to any church interested in starting this rewarding ministry.  Contact Northminster at 724-724-658-9051.  Training in the program is available.

Rev. Malcolm S. Vandevort, Jr., 93, honorably retired member of our Shenango Presbytery, died on Thursday after a bout with cancer.  A long time Presbyterian missionary in Ethiopia, he also served several churches here in western PA and was known by many in our presbytery.  One of Malcolm’s daughters is Rachel Weller, also serving in Ethiopia and, along with her husband Michael, is supported by some of our Shenango congregations.  Writes Rachel,

This Week:

July 3- OFFICE CLOSED

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching this month at Coolspring (July 5) and Moravia (July 12).  He will be the chaplain for a week of camp at Westminster Highlands (July 6-10) and will be participating in the annual Carpenter’s Project in Ellwood City (July 13-17).  During the New Wilmington Mission Conference (July 18-25), he will be hosting two pastors from the Iglesia Evangelica Dominicana (in the Dominican Republic) who will be Conference participants.  He will be attending the PCUSA Big Tent Conference in Knoxville, TN (July 29-31).  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session or Deacon meetings.  Schedule a fall 2015 Sunday or meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

Stated Clerk Updates

• The Coolspring congregation has called TE Mark Frailey as their next installed pastor, to begin in early August. Mark was previously a member of Lake Erie presbytery, serving two congregations in the Conneaut Lake area.  RE Linda Kellogg remains a CRE serving in the congregation.
• Maxwell “Max” Muska, a recent Pittsburgh Seminary graduate and Candidate for ordination in Beaver-Butler Presbytery, is now serving the Harlansburg and Rich Hill churches as a Student Pastor.
• Pastor Nominating Committees remain active at the New Wilmington and Bell Memorial churches.

(TE= Teaching Elder; RE= Ruling Elder; CRE= Commission Ruling Elder)

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.

eLink Subscription Changes

We’re going to be making a transition during the month of July to get all eLink subscribers on the same delivery service.  If you subscribed on the “old” website, you will automatically be moved over to the new system by Autumn – the only thing you may need to do is click on a subscription verification link that will be emailed to you by WordPress.  Please be aware that during the transition, the “old system” subscribers may receive 2 copies of eLink…this should stop once the entire list has been transferred.  Anyone who has subscribed on the “new” website should continue to receive eLink without interruption.  We apologize for any inconvenience that this transition causes, and if you have any questions, please let us know.

Dominican Guests

Shenango is proud to be hosting two pastors from the Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana for the New Wilmington Mission Conference.  Revs. Nelson Rodriguez and Sairy Marte will participate in the Conference, bring greetings from our IED partners, and preach in two of our Shenango congregations.  On July 26, Nelson will preach at Hillside in Greenville and Sairy will preach at North Liberty, Grove City.  Want to meet them?  Come to Shenango’s NWMC reception on Sunday, July 19, 5pm, in the Social Hall of the New Wilmington church.  There you can meet our Dominican guests as well as many other mission co-workers supported by our churches.  Persons from at least four of our congregations have participated in a 20-year partnership with an IED on the northern coast of the island.

Potluck for the Newlyweds

Tom Gomola and Teresa Kendall are the guests of honor at a potluck after worship on Sunday, July 19^th, at Leesburg ECO Church.  Festivities will begin at NOON.  Come and visit…Tom and Teresa would love to see you!

Missionary Offering #1

Our Council approved the gathering of an offering at each of our stated presbytery meetings for the next year, to support a designated PCUSA mission co-worker, selected each time by our MCS committee.  At our June 23 meeting, elders and pastors collected over $1200 to add to the support of Nancy McGaughey — a mission worker in South Sudan, supported by many of our congregations.  In response to the offering, Nancy wrote:

“To the Churches and Pastors of The Presbytery of Shenango:  I am humbled by your generous offering.  Shenango Presbytery has been a supporter of mine for several years and you never cease to amaze me by your generous support and continual coverage in prayer.  Thank you seems so inadequate, but for lack of something better, thank you so much.  May God bless all of you as you have so richly blessed me. In Him, Nancy.”

The MCS committee and our Council thank our pastors and elders for their generosity.  We look forward to the next four meetings and the oppurtunity to bless four more of the missionaries supported by Shenango churches.

Prayer Chain List

Our EP Ralph Hawkins sends occasional (public) prayer concerns to some of the prayer groups that meet in our presbytery churches.  Currently Calvin, Lebanon, First New Castle, Bell Memorial, Sandy Lake, First Sharon, Third New Castle, Stoneboro, and New Wilmington churches are included.  If your congregation has a prayer ministry and would like to be included in these request, please let Ralph know at ralph@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.

300^th Anniversary of Our Synod

The Synod of the Trinity, which includes Shenango Presbytery, is gearing up to celebrate its 300th anniversary.  Mike Givler, with the Synod, writes, “Because the history of our churches is what makes up the history of the Synod, we’re looking for people who have a passion for history to help us gather information and help us celebrate. I have been in touch with all of our presbyteries looking for volunteers to assist us in this project and I have received a few names. If you or someone you know would be interested in helping out, let me know. And please spread the word that we are looking for volunteers. After all, it’s the people in the pews who helped shape what the Synod of the Trinity is today.”  Interested in history and willing to help?  Contact our EP Ralph in the presbytery office: ralph@shenango.org or 724-528-1610

Fellowship Community

The Lebanon and Jamestown congregations have found the commitments and the resources of the Fellowship Community (formerly “Fellowship of Presbyterians”) to be an asset in our present denominational environment.  Both churches have joined this movement; likely other Shenango churches will as well.  I will be attending the National Gathering in August and would glad for other Shenango leaders to come along.  Check out their website and reach out to pastors Augie Hurst (Lebanon) or Don Stanely (Jamestown), or to me, for more information. — Ralph

Save the Date – Egypt Partnership Network

Presbyterian World Mission is pleased to invite you to the first meeting of the Egypt Partnership Network, August 5-8, 2015 on the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  The program will include updates from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Egypt, discussion of the PCUSA mission partnerships in Egypt, as well as opportunities for PCUSA congregations and constituents to be involved.  More details, including registration information, are forthcoming.

Steve and Brenda Stelle Visiting Churches This Summer

In July and August, Steve and Brenda will be back in the United States to visit churches and share with their members about their experiences in Dembi Dollo.  Please check with your sessions, mission committees and congregation members to set up a time for the Stelles to meet with your church.  They very much appreciate the financial support they receive both from congregations and individual contributors and hope to share the story of their ministry in Ethiopia with all of you. To set up a visit, contact Steve atstevestelle826@gmail.com.

The Bible in 90 Days

 The presbytery’s Christian Education and Evangelism Committees are encouraging churches in the presbytery to participate in the Bible in 90 Days this fall. This whole-church challenge is designed like the ultimate book club—everyone in the church reads the Bible, cover to cover, in just 12 pages a day. Each week, small groups gather to discuss the week’s readings. The weekly sermons are also focused on the readings. This challenge has the potential to be a transformative moment for our churches as our people read God’s word and take on a meaningful challenge together.  Read more here!

Financial Well-Being Retreat

August 17 and 18 at Montreat Conference Center…dedicated to helping active Board of Pensions Benefits Plan members achieve better stewardship of personal and church finances.  For more information, and to register by Friday, July 17, click here.

Save the Date – NWMC!

The 110^th Annual New Wilmington Mission Conference will take place July 18-25 at Westminster College.  Get more information at http://www.nwmcmission.org.

Perspectives Leaders’ Intensive, August 9-15, 2015

Get the full Perspectives on the World Christian Movement class in just 7 days!  This experience is designed for pastors’ study leave, seminary students, and missionaries who can’t participate in the semester-long program.  Any mission leader is welcome!  The class is taking place at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  Check the class website for details and for registration.  There is an early registration discount if you register by the end of May!  Email Jen if you’d like more information, jhaddox@pts.edu.

News from the Churches

Copier Available

Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church has a copier available.  It was purchased in 2007 for $2800.  It is still in good working order; our needs have just surpassed its abilities.  It is a Ricoh 2020D with 4 paper trays and bypass tray and a fax machine.  It comes with 2 cartridges of toner.  We are asking $400 or best offer.

Clown Ministry Props Available

Northminster Presbyterian Church’s Clown Ministry is no longer functioning.  They have make-up, props, manuals, etc. to donate to any church interested in starting this rewarding ministry.  Contact Northminster at 724-724-658-9051.  Training in the program is available.

This Week:

June 23- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, New Wilmington PC

Read more about the Special Mission Co-Worker Offering!
June 24- 7:00 PM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching for Bell Memorial (June 21) and Calvin (June 28) churches in Ellwood City.  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session or Deacon meetings.  Schedule a fall 2015 Sunday or meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

Crisis Shelter to Host Child Abuse Reporter Training Sessions

In regards to the new Child Protective Services Law, the Crisis Shelter of Lawrence County will be hosting 2 FREE Child Abuse Mandated Reporter training sessions to members of the clergy and volunteer/staff members who have regular contact with children.  One of the sessions will be held at First, New Castle on June 27^th from 9:30 – 11:30 AM.  Questions can be directed to Jackie Dierickx, jdierickx@crisisshelter.org or 724-856-4320.

Save the Date – Egypt Partnership Network

Presbyterian World Mission is pleased to invite you to the first meeting of the Egypt Partnership Network, August 5-8, 2015 on the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  The program will include updates from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Egypt, discussion of the PCUSA mission partnerships in Egypt, as well as opportunities for PCUSA congregations and constituents to be involved.  More details, including registration information, are forthcoming.

PDA Responds to Severe Flooding

Numerous states have been affected by flooding this year due to the melting from heavy snowfall and higher than average rainfalls.  Presbyterian Disaster Assistance has been in continual contact with presbyteries in the areas experiencing storms and flooding, and has responded to the most affected ones with One Great Hour of Sharing funds and the presence of National Response Team members.  How can you help?  Give…financial offerings through your church can be forwarded to the Presbytery Office noted “DR000191 – U.S. Flooding”.  Act…volunteer with PDA or assemble Gift of the Heart clean-up buckets.  Pray…for all who have been affected by storms and flooding, for those who remain in harm’s way, and for those involved in responding to needs.

Steve and Brenda Stelle Visiting Churches This Summer

In July and August, Steve and Brenda will be back in the United States to visit churches and share with their members about their experiences in Dembi Dollo.  Please check with your sessions, mission committees and congregation members to set up a time for the Stelles to meet with your church.  They very much appreciate the financial support they receive both from congregations and individual contributors and hope to share the story of their ministry in Ethiopia with all of you. To set up a visit, contact Steve atstevestelle826@gmail.com.

The Bible in 90 Days

 The presbytery’s Christian Education and Evangelism Committees are encouraging churches in the presbytery to participate in the Bible in 90 Days this fall. This whole-church challenge is designed like the ultimate book club—everyone in the church reads the Bible, cover to cover, in just 12 pages a day. Each week, small groups gather to discuss the week’s readings. The weekly sermons are also focused on the readings. This challenge has the potential to be a transformative moment for our churches as our people read God’s word and take on a meaningful challenge together.  Read more here!

 Save the Date – NWMC!

The 110^th Annual New Wilmington Mission Conference will take place July 18-25 at Westminster College.  Get more information at http://www.nwmcmission.org.

Perspectives Leaders’ Intensive, August 9-15, 2015

Get the full Perspectives on the World Christian Movement class in just 7 days!  This experience is designed for pastors’ study leave, seminary students, and missionaries who can’t participate in the semester-long program.  Any mission leader is welcome!  The class is taking place at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  Check the class website for details and for registration.  There is an early registration discount if you register by the end of May!  Email Jen if you’d like more information,jhaddox@pts.edu.

News from the Churches

Touch a Truck at Leesburg ECO

On June 27^th from 10 AM to 2 PM at Leesburg ECO Presbyterian Church (1831 Perry Highway, Volant), a variety of vehicles will be represented for kids of all ages to explore! Climb inside big trucks, 18 wheelers, service trucks, farm equipment, fire truck, police car, Shriner’s clown car, bull dozier, classic cars or a smart car – to name a few. Light refreshments will be available at low cost. Great family fun! Come rain or shine. Children must be supervised at all times.

Copier Available

Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church has a copier available.  It was purchased in 2007 for $2800.  It is still in good working order; our needs have just surpassed its abilities.  It is a Ricoh 2020D with 4 paper trays and bypass tray and a fax machine.  It comes with 2 cartridges of toner.  We are asking $400 or best offer.

The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  

Important Items Before Presbytery Include:

• Recognition of Debbie Forsberg’s retirement
• Read the Bible in 90 Days presbytery-wide emphasis
• Mission Trip reports; Hillary Leslie Young Adult Volunteer preview
• Blessed be Egypt My People video
• Installation of the new Moderator and Vice-Moderator

Get the Docket and Council Minutes!

NOTE: Please email any documents for inclusion in the packet to Autumn at office@shenango.org ASAP.  

New Wilmington Presbyterian Church is located at 229 S. Market Street.

This Week:

June 16- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC
June 17- 7:00 PM Clerks Clearance Party, Neshannock PC
June 19- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office
June 23- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, New Wilmington PC (docket coming soon!)

Read more about the Special Mission Co-Worker Offering!
June 24- 7:00 PM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching for Bell Memorial (June 21) and Calvin (June 28) churches in Ellwood City.  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session or Deacon meetings.  Schedule a fall 2015 Sunday or meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

Clerks of Session Meeting

Recent changes in Pennsylvania law regarding mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse and required background checks have consequences for our congregations.  Clerks of Session are asked to attend a gathering with our Stated Clerk, Ralph Hawkins, to discuss these changes and how Clerks can support the required documentation process.  June 17, 7 PM, at Neshannock Presbyterian Church, 330 W. Neshannock Avenue in New Wilmington.  Questions about these new requirements?  Contact Ralph at 724-528-1610 or COM member Judy Veon at 724-946-8576.

Crisis Shelter to Host Child Abuse Reporter Training Sessions

In regards to the new Child Protective Services Law, the Crisis Shelter of Lawrence County will be hosting 2 FREE Child Abuse Mandated Reporter training sessions to members of the clergy and volunteer/staff members who have regular contact with children.  One of the sessions will be held at First, New Castle on June 27^th from 9:30 – 11:30 AM.  Questions can be directed to Jackie Dierickx, jdierickx@crisisshelter.org or 724-856-4320.

Missional Church Conversation

On Thursday, June 18, at 6:00pm, Scott Hagley will be at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for a conversation on church mission and community connection. Our time with Scott will focus on the increasing trend of neighborhood development as a counter-movement to suburban sprawl in the Pacific Northwest. As the trend is expected to work toward other communities, we will look at the ways younger generations create community and new ways that church mission connects to this type of community.  Scott has worked with Church Innovations and was a doctoral student at Luther Seminary with that late Rev. Jannie Swart. He will be teaching the Missional Leadership Cohort at Pittsburgh Seminary’s D. Min. program. He currently works with Forge Canada. www.forgecanada.ca.  Dinner will be provided for $10. Carpool option will be available from our presbytery office.  RSVP to the office at office@shenango.org or speak to Ralph Hawkins for more information.

Save the Date – Egypt Partnership Network

Presbyterian World Mission is pleased to invite you to the first meeting of the Egypt Partnership Network, August 5-8, 2015 on the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  The program will include updates from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Egypt, discussion of the PCUSA mission partnerships in Egypt, as well as opportunities for PCUSA congregations and constituents to be involved.  More details, including registration information, are forthcoming.

PDA Responds to Severe Flooding

Numerous states have been affected by flooding this year due to the melting from heavy snowfall and higher than average rainfalls.  Presbyterian Disaster Assistance has been in continual contact with presbyteries in the areas experiencing storms and flooding, and has responded to the most affected ones with One Great Hour of Sharing funds and the presence of National Response Team members.  How can you help?  Give…financial offerings through your church can be forwarded to the Presbytery Office noted “DR000191 – U.S. Flooding”.  Act…volunteer with PDA or assemble Gift of the Heart clean-up buckets.  Pray…for all who have been affected by storms and flooding, for those who remain in harm’s way, and for those involved in responding to needs.

Steve and Brenda Stelle Visiting Churches This Summer

In July and August, Steve and Brenda will be back in the United States to visit churches and share with their members about their experiences in Dembi Dollo.  Please check with your sessions, mission committees and congregation members to set up a time for the Stelles to meet with your church.  They very much appreciate the financial support they receive both from congregations and individual contributors and hope to share the story of their ministry in Ethiopia with all of you. To set up a visit, contact Steve atstevestelle826@gmail.com.

The Bible in 90 Days

 The presbytery’s Christian Education and Evangelism Committees are encouraging churches in the presbytery to participate in the Bible in 90 Days this fall. This whole-church challenge is designed like the ultimate book club—everyone in the church reads the Bible, cover to cover, in just 12 pages a day. Each week, small groups gather to discuss the week’s readings. The weekly sermons are also focused on the readings. This challenge has the potential to be a transformative moment for our churches as our people read God’s word and take on a meaningful challenge together.  Read more here!

 Save the Date – NWMC!

The 110^th Annual New Wilmington Mission Conference will take place July 18-25 at Westminster College.  Get more information at http://www.nwmcmission.org.

Perspectives Leaders’ Intensive, August 9-15, 2015

Get the full Perspectives on the World Christian Movement class in just 7 days!  This experience is designed for pastors’ study leave, seminary students, and missionaries who can’t participate in the semester-long program.  Any mission leader is welcome!  The class is taking place at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  Check the class website for details and for registration.  There is an early registration discount if you register by the end of May!  Email Jen if you’d like more information,jhaddox@pts.edu.

News from the Churches

Touch a Truck at Leesburg ECO

On June 27^th from 10 AM to 2 PM at Leesburg ECO Presbyterian Church (1831 Perry Highway, Volant), a variety of vehicles will be represented for kids of all ages to explore! Climb inside big trucks, 18 wheelers, service trucks, farm equipment, fire truck, police car, Shriner’s clown car, bull dozier, classic cars or a smart car – to name a few. Light refreshments will be available at low cost. Great family fun! Come rain or shine. Children must be supervised at all times.

This Week:

June 10- 10:00 AM Transition Team, Presbytery Office
June 11- 1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
June 16- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching for the Fairfield and Milledgeville Churches (June 7) in Mercer County, and for Bell Memorial (June 21) and Calvin (June 28) churches in Ellwood City.  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session or Deacon meetings.  Schedule a fall 2015 Sunday or meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

Stated Clerk Updates

• The session of Faith Presbyterian Church has voted to end its discernment period and will not be recommending to the congregation a request for dismissal to another Reformed denomination. The congregation continues to be served by TE Jim Latta, Interim Pastor.
• Pastor Nominating Committees remain active at Coolspring, New Wilmington, and Bell Memorial churches.
• TE John Creekpaum is serving outside our bounds as a Temporary Pastor for Common Ground church, North Lima, Ohio, in Eastminster Presbytery.
• Max Muska, a Pittsburgh Seminary graduate and Candidate for ordination in Beaver-Butler Presbytery, will be serving the Harlansburg and Rich Hill churches as a Student Pastor beginning June 1.

(TE = Teaching Elder; CRE = Commissioned Ruling Elder)

Clerks of Session Meeting

Recent changes in Pennsylvania law regarding mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse and required background checks have consequences for our congregations.  Clerks of Session are asked to attend a gathering with our Stated Clerk, Ralph Hawkins, to discuss these changes and how Clerks can support the required documentation process.  June 17, 7 PM, at Neshannock Presbyterian Church, 330 W. Neshannock Avenue in New Wilmington.  Questions about these new requirements?  Contact Ralph at 724-528-1610 or COM member Judy Veon at 724-946-8576.

Missional Church Conversation

On Thursday, June 18, at 6:00pm, Scott Hagley will be at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for a conversation on church mission and community connection. Our time with Scott will focus on the increasing trend of neighborhood development as a counter-movement to suburban sprawl in the Pacific Northwest. As the trend is expected to work toward other communities, we will look at the ways younger generations create community and new ways that church mission connects to this type of community.  Scott has worked with Church Innovations and was a doctoral student at Luther Seminary with that late Rev. Jannie Swart. He will be teaching the Missional Leadership Cohort at Pittsburgh Seminary’s D. Min. program. He currently works with Forge Canada. www.forgecanada.ca.  Dinner will be provided for $10. Carpool option will be available from our presbytery office.  RSVP to the office at office@shenango.org or speak to Ralph Hawkins for more information.

Save the Date – Egypt Partnership Network

Presbyterian World Mission is pleased to invite you to the first meeting of the Egypt Partnership Network, August 5-8, 2015 on the campus of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  The program will include updates from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Egypt, discussion of the PCUSA mission partnerships in Egypt, as well as opportunities for PCUSA congregations and constituents to be involved.  More details, including registration information, are forthcoming.

PDA Responds to Severe Flooding

Numerous states have been affected by flooding this year due to the melting from heavy snowfall and higher than average rainfalls.  Presbyterian Disaster Assistance has been in continual contact with presbyteries in the areas experiencing storms and flooding, and has responded to the most affected ones with One Great Hour of Sharing funds and the presence of National Response Team members.  How can you help?  Give…financial offerings through your church can be forwarded to the Presbytery Office noted “DR000191 – U.S. Flooding”.  Act…volunteer with PDA or assemble Gift of the Heart clean-up buckets.  Pray…for all who have been affected by storms and flooding, for those who remain in harm’s way, and for those involved in responding to needs.

Steve and Brenda Stelle Visiting Churches This Summer

In July and August, Steve and Brenda will be back in the United States to visit churches and share with their members about their experiences in Dembi Dollo.  Please check with your sessions, mission committees and congregation members to set up a time for the Stelles to meet with your church.  They very much appreciate the financial support they receive both from congregations and individual contributors and hope to share the story of their ministry in Ethiopia with all of you. To set up a visit, contact Steve atstevestelle826@gmail.com.

Save the Date – NWMC!

The 110^th Annual New Wilmington Mission Conference will take place July 18-25 at Westminster College.  Get more information at http://www.nwmcmission.org.

Perspectives Leaders’ Intensive, August 9-15, 2015

Get the full Perspectives on the World Christian Movement class in just 7 days!  This experience is designed for pastors’ study leave, seminary students, and missionaries who can’t participate in the semester-long program.  Any mission leader is welcome!  The class is taking place at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, hosted by World Mission Initiative.  Check the class website for details and for registration.  There is an early registration discount if you register by the end of May!  Email Jen if you’d like more information,jhaddox@pts.edu.

2015 Survey of Church Kitchens

The Church Kitchens Institute is collecting data on the function and frequency of use of church kitchens.  The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and the results will be used to help congregations maximize the potential of the church kitchens and culinary ministries.  Take the survey via https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/LDCJJWF … To be completed no later than July 15^th.

News from the Churches

Summer Rummage Sale

Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer is having their summer rummage sale on Friday, June 12,   8 AM – 4 PM.  Saturday, June 13 8 AM – NOON is half price day with clothing $1.00/bag…always a good sale.  Just east of the Mercer Courthouse.  724-662-2680.

Touch a Truck at Leesburg ECO

On June 27^th from 10 AM to 2 PM at Leesburg ECO Presbyterian Church (1831 Perry Highway, Volant), a variety of vehicles will be represented for kids of all ages to explore! Climb inside big trucks, 18 wheelers, service trucks, farm equipment, fire truck, police car, Shriner’s clown car, bull dozier, classic cars or a smart car – to name a few. Light refreshments will be available at low cost. Great family fun! Come rain or shine. Children must be supervised at all times.