This Week:

March 11- 5:30 PM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office
March 12- 12:00 PM MCS Committee, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
March 16- 9:00 AM PW CT Meeting, Presbytery Office
10:30 AM Nominating Committee, Shenango Presbyterian Church

March 17- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Presbytery Office

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be teaching adult Sunday School at New Wilmington (March 8) and at First Sharon (March 15).  He will be leading a Sunday evening Lenten devotion at Ebenezer (March 8) and, with Rev. Rich Kinney (Highland), presenting stories and pictures from their Egypt/Sudan visit, at New Wilmington church (March 15 — rescheduled because of weather last month).  He will be attending the spring Synod of the Trinity meeting at State College (Mar 23-24) and giving a lecture on Christian vocation at Montreat College (March 30).  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.

 

Ride-Share Wanted

Robbie Arnold is looking to ride-share to the PTS program, “Journey Within, Journey Without” on March 17.  Is there anyone that she might ride with, sharing the cost of gas?  Contact Robbie at 724-983-0194 (Hermitage).

 

World Christian Discipleship

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Evann Wildhack, recent Westminster College graduate and member of the New Wilmington church, is a graduate of the WCD program.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar for more information.

 

World Christian Pilgrimages

World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary

In October 2015, WMI is offering two opportunities for travel:

– South East Asia – This October 15-27 journey led by Don Dawson will continue to build on WMI’s long-standing relationship (12 years and 19 visits) with an Unreached People Group in SE Asia.  Participants will meet with and encourage leaders of the Christian movement among this People Group, and share with and learn from our brothers and sisters.

– Armenia – In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, join World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary on a 10-day journey to a beautiful, ancient Christian homeland October 8-19, 2015. Enjoy worship, warm hospitality, and discussions with all three ecumenical church partners – Apostolic, Catholic and Evangelical.  You will be immersed in the faith-based community development projects of the Jinishian Memorial Program in this post-Soviet republic.  Eliza Minasyan, Executive Director and Cara Taylor of JMP will be the leaders.  Seehttp://www.worldmissioninitiative.org/index.php/trips/fall for details.

 

News From The PC(USA)

The Young Adult Volunteer program is on its way to tripling its size. With sites in 6 countries around the world and 12 sites in the United States, young adults are committed to a year of service while living in intentional community and engaging in vocational discernment. Up to a third of the alums go on to seminary.  Read more here.

 

Looking For Donations For The Dominican Republic

25 persons, most from Shenango churches, will make the annual ministry visit to Sabaneta de Yasica, on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.  At least three Shenango churches have shared in a partnership with a Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana congregation in that community.  The IED was founded by American Presbyterians, Methodists, and Moravians.  To support the ongoing ministry of the Sabaneta congregation, we are looking for donations for the following items:

– working video projectors, new or used

– new or gentle used baseballs and gloves

– pencils, paper, crayons and general school supplies

– new or gentle used liturgical stoles for a female pastor

– a gently used communion set (trays for small cups and plate(s) for bread)

Items can be dropped off at the presbytery office by April 13, 2015, or contact the office if you need someone to pick up some items.

 

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16

– www.wcdpittsburgh.com.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar – tbribar@gmail.com.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality Chapel Drama will present the musical “Leap of Faith” on Friday, March 20^th at 7:30 PM, Saturday, March 21^st at 7:30 PM and Sunday, March 22^nd at 6:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  The musical is free and open to the public.  A free will offering will be received at the intermission in support of the show and Campus Ministry programming.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality extends an invitation to the community to attend our Palm Sunday Vespers on Sunday, March 29^th at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.   The service will include the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Rev. Jim Mohr, College Chaplain will be preaching “In the Crowd, Waving”, and music will be provided by the Second Chance Praise Team and the Westminster Women’s Chorus.

 

Making a Wake: Integrating Faith, Life, and Work as We Follow Christ

Join Christopher Brown, Co-Pastor of The Upper Room Presbyterian Church and Vera White, Associate of 1001 Worshipping Communities on March 17^th from 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM in the Knox Room, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for a time of learning and reflecting on the example of Celtic saints and its meaning for us today.  For more information, visit http://www.pts.edu/JIJO_2015.

2015 Princeton Forum on Youth Ministry

Engaging, reflective, and theologically substantive, the 2015 Princeton Forum on Youth Ministry will focus on the role of the Holy Spirit in youth ministry.  The Brothers of Taize will lead worship in Princeton University Chapel, and an exciting cast of leaders will give lectures and offer classes.  Renew your energy for ministry as you create vocational friendships, stretch your imagination, and give Sabbath to your soul.  Learn more and register at http://www.iym.ptsem.edu.

 

News from the Churches

Love & Respect Event

How many of you want a better marriage?  How many of you yearn for a more complete understanding of your spouse?  Love & Respect is a revolutionary view of marriage based off of Ephesians 5:33 “Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”  Join Northminster Presbyterian Church (2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle) on March 12^th at 6:15 PM for an opportunity to walk away with a better understanding of your spouse, better communication skills, and a better grasp of what the Bible teaches about marriage.  Childcare available.  Questions, call 724-658-9051.

 

FREE Resources

Debbie Derrenbacher, Director of Discipleship at First, Sharon, has a whole box of curriculum and resource books for children’s ministries for free.  If interested, please contact Debbie at 724-981-2211 ext. 5 or dcm@1stpcs.org.

 

Indoor Yard Sale

The Presbyterian Women of Unity Church, 1857 Mercer W. Middlesex Rd., Mercer, PA are holding an “Indoor Yard Sale” on Friday, March 13 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday, March 14, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Lunch will be available.  Proceeds go to missions.  If you wish to donate unwanted items for the sale, PW is at the church on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM.  Any questions?  Contact Mary Alice Marsh at 724-662-2491.

 

Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Dinner at Bessemer PC

Saturday, March 28, 2015 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM, the Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 N. Main St., Bessemer) will be holding a Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Dinner to benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $9.00, Children 9-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat In or Take Out available.  Call the church office for tickets at 724-667-7255.

Secretary Wanted

Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer is searching for a new Church Secretary/Financial Secretary for 25 hours each week.  The position will open as of June 1^st.  Please call Rev. Bill Crooks at 724-662-2680 for more information.

Music Director Wanted

Coolspring Presbyterian Church is looking for a Music Director responsible for 1 Sunday service and Choir.  Piano and/or organ experience.  This is a paid position.  Please call 724-475-3712 and leave a message with your contact information if interested.

 

Organist/Choir Director

Shenango Presbyterian Church is looking for an organist/choir director.  This is a paid position.  Please contact Amy Na at the church office at 724-654-2322.  Come and worship with us!

The Spring Pastor Retreat will take place on May 18-19, 2015.  The incorrect dates were featured in yesterday’s eLink message and on the flyer in the recent Presbytery Packet.  We apologize for any confusion and inconvenience this error may have caused.  Click here to read the corrected information and register online.

Re-Thinking Church
with Dr. Edwin Chr. van Driel, Associate Professor of Theology at Pittsburgh Seminary

May 18-19, 2015 at Villa Maria Conference Center

Having lived through several years of denominational conflict, many of our congregations are now facing the challenge of dropping numbers, shrinking resources, and an aging membership.  All of this could easily feel as a trigger for exhaustion and despair.  Dr. van Driel wants to suggest the opposite, though: that both our internal conflicts and our external loss of influence and status may be a God-given opportunity to once again re-imagine what it means “to be church”.  In this retreat we’ll explore together how to offer our people a life-giving understanding of being church in a post-Christendom world.

Click here to register online.

Click here to download the PDF registration form.

This Week:

March 11- 10:30 AM Leadership Development Team, Presbytery Office

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be teaching adult Sunday School at New Wilmington (March 8) and at First Sharon (March 15).  He will be leading a Sunday evening Lenten devotion at Ebenezer (March 8) and, with Rev. Rich Kinney (Highland), presenting stories and pictures from their Egypt/Sudan visit, at New Wilmington church (March 15 — rescheduled because of weather last month).  He will be attending the spring Synod of the Trinity meeting at State College (Mar 23-24) and giving a lecture on Christian vocation at Montreat College (March 30).  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 Jim Leuenberger, having served Tower (ECO) as an interim, has accepted a call to the McKeesport church in Pittsburgh Presbytery.

– TE Brady Randall, formerly temporary pastor at Harlansburg, has transferred from the Presbyterian Church (USA) to Orchard Hill Church, an independent congregation in Wexford, Pa.

– RE Marsha Parrish (Unity) has been commissioned by our presbytery to serve Jameson Healthcare as a Chaplain and Bereavement Care Coordinator.  This is a three year commission and runs concurrent with her part-time service to the Mt. Hermon and Oak Grove congregations.

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

Highmark Member Records Potentially Compromised by Data Breach at Anthem

A late-January cyberattack on Anthem Inc. compromised the data of as many as 80 million Anthem plan members. The Board of Pensions has learned that some Highmark member data on Anthem’s systems may also be at risk.

Highmark Blue Cross (the Board of Pensions’ service provider for the Medical Plan) participates in the national Blue Cross BlueCard network, sharing certain member information with local Blue Cross plans, including Anthem Blue Cross, to pay providers and process claims locally. The information compromised during the attack on Anthem’s systems includes names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of Medical Plan members who have, or may have had, claims for services with providers participating in Anthem Blue Cross.

Within the next few weeks, as Anthem and the FBI continue their investigations, Anthem will send a letter by U.S. mail to current and former Highmark and Anthem plan members whose data may have been compromised. The letter will offer free credit monitoring and identity protection services. The Board of Pensions encourages you to accept these services if you receive a letter.

Important Note: Anthem will not contact members by phone or email and will not request credit card or Social Security numbers. They will contact members by mail only.

The letter from Anthem will provide further details, including additional contact information. Benefits Plan members with questions may call Anthem toll-free at 877-263-7995, visit the website anthemfacts.com, or read their Frequently Asked Questions.

 

Bruce Stevens Named Synod of the Trinity’s Executive Emeritus

Former Synod of the Trinity Executive, the Rev. Dr. Bruce Stevens, was honored with Executive Emeritus status for “his long and faithful years of service to the Synod” during the Presbytery of West Virginia meeting on February 28.  Pictured with Bruce are, from left, Synod Transitional Executive Susan Faye Wonderland, 2014 Synod Moderator Jim Robinson, and former Synod Executive Tom Johnston.  Ideally a presentation like this would take place at a Synod Assembly meeting, but in this case Susan asked, with a smile, if those in attendance would stand in for the rest of the Synod of the Trinity!  The back of the framed certificate was signed by the Synod’s Executive Presbyters.

 

Parker Visit

Pictured (right) is Rev. Elmarie Parker, PCUSA Regional Liason to Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon.  Elmarie preached at Trinity Church in Mercer and shared her sense of call to ministry in the Middle East to a group of Trinity adults.  She offered remarkable testimony about the faithfulness and resilience of Christians in that region.  Together with her husband Rev. Scott Parker, who recently preached at Clen-Moore in New Castle, they serve as the “face” of our denomination with Presbyterian and Reformed denominations across the Middle East.  Several of our Shenango churches support the Parkers.  You can too!  Contact RE Miriam Gwin to learn more.

 

Ride-Share Wanted

Robbie Arnold is looking to ride-share to the PTS program, “Journey Within, Journey Without” on March 17.  Is there anyone that she might ride with, sharing the cost of gas?  Contact Robbie at 724-983-0194 (Hermitage).

 

2014 “Tax Guide for Ministers” Available

The Tax Guide for Ministers, updated for the 2014 tax year, was recently mailed to active and retired teaching elders. It is also available on Benefits Connect, accessible from pensions.org. The Web module Tax Tips for Members & Churches has been updated as well. Tax Tips is in the Tax Resource Center of Board University, which can be reached from the Members & Employers menu on the pensions.org home page.

 

“Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches” Updated

The Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches has been updated to provide guidance for the 2015 tax year. It is available on Benefits Connect, accessible from pensions.org. The Web module Tax Tips for Members & Churches has been updated as well. Tax Tips is in the Tax Resource Center of Board University, which can be reached from the Members & Employers menu on the pensions.org home page.

WORLD CHRISTIAN DISCIPLESHIP

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Evann Wildhack, recent Westminster College graduate and member of the New Wilmington church, is a graduate of the WCD program.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar for more information.

WORLD CHRISTIAN PILGRIMAGES

World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary

In October 2015, WMI is offering two opportunities for travel:

– South East Asia – This October 15-27 journey led by Don Dawson will continue to build on WMI’s long-standing relationship (12 years and 19 visits) with an Unreached People Group in SE Asia.  Participants will meet with and encourage leaders of the Christian movement among this People Group, and share with and learn from our brothers and sisters.

– Armenia – In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide, join World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary on a 10-day journey to a beautiful, ancient Christian homeland October 8-19, 2015. Enjoy worship, warm hospitality, and discussions with all three ecumenical church partners – Apostolic, Catholic and Evangelical.  You will be immersed in the faith-based community development projects of the Jinishian Memorial Program in this post-Soviet republic.  Eliza Minasyan, Executive Director and Cara Taylor of JMP will be the leaders.  See http://www.worldmissioninitiative.org/index.php/trips/fall for details.

NEWS FROM THE PC(USA)

The Young Adult Volunteer program is on its way to tripling its size. With sites in 6 countries around the world and 12 sites in the United States, young adults are committed to a year of service while living in intentional community and engaging in vocational discernment. Up to a third of the alums go on to seminary.  Read more here.

Looking For Donations For The Dominican Republic

25 persons, most from Shenango churches, will make the annual ministry visit to Sabaneta de Yasica, on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.  At least three Shenango churches have shared in a partnership with a Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana congregation in that community.  The IED was founded by American Presbyterians, Methodists, and Moravians.  To support the ongoing ministry of the Sabaneta congregation, we are looking for donations for the following items:

– working video projectors, new or used

– new or gentle used baseballs and gloves

– pencils, paper, crayons and general school supplies

– new or gentle used liturgical stoles for a female pastor

– a gently used communion set (trays for small cups and plate(s) for bread)

Items can be dropped off at the presbytery office by April 13, 2015, or contact the office if you need someone to pick up some items.

 

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16

– www.wcdpittsburgh.com.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar – tbribar@gmail.com.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality Chapel Drama will present the musical “Leap of Faith” on Friday, March 20^th at 7:30 PM, Saturday, March 21^st at 7:30 PM and Sunday, March 22^nd at 6:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  The musical is free and open to the public.  A free will offering will be received at the intermission in support of the show and Campus Ministry programming.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality extends an invitation to the community to attend our Palm Sunday Vespers on Sunday, March 29^th at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.   The service will include the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Rev. Jim Mohr, College Chaplain will be preaching “In the Crowd, Waving”, and music will be provided by the Second Chance Praise Team and the Westminster Women’s Chorus.

 

Making a Wake: Integrating Faith, Life, and Work as We Follow Christ

Join Christopher Brown, Co-Pastor of The Upper Room Presbyterian Church and Vera White, Associate of 1001 Worshipping Communities on March 17^th from 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM in the Knox Room, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for a time of learning and reflecting on the example of Celtic saints and its meaning for us today.  For more information, visit http://www.pts.edu/JIJO_2015.

 

History of Gospel Workshop & Concert

Join the Center for Urban Biblical Ministry April 10^th and 11^th at Eastminster Presbyterian Church for a workshop and concert exploring the history of Gospel music.  George W. Russell, Jr., Professor of Harmony and Piano at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, will lead the workshops and perform a concert at the end of the event.  Tickets for the workshops are $10, tickets for the concert at $10 in advance, $15 at the door.  For more information, call the CUBM office at 412-247-9010.

 

News from the Churches

Love & Respect Event

How many of you want a better marriage?  How many of you yearn for a more complete understanding of your spouse?  Love & Respect is a revolutionary view of marriage based off of Ephesians 5:33 “Let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.”  Join Northminster Presbyterian Church (2434 Wilmington Road, New Castle) on March 12^th at 6:15 PM for an opportunity to walk away with a better understanding of your spouse, better communication skills, and a better grasp of what the Bible teaches about marriage.  Childcare available.  Questions, call 724-658-9051.

 

Indoor Yard Sale

The Presbyterian Women of Unity Church, 1857 Mercer W. Middlesex Rd., Mercer, PA are holding an “Indoor Yard Sale” on Friday, March 13 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday, March 14, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Lunch will be available.  Proceeds go to missions.  If you wish to donate unwanted items for the sale, PW is at the church on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM.  Any questions?  Contact Mary Alice Marsh at 724-662-2491.

 

Music Director Wanted

Coolspring Presbyterian Church is looking for a Music Director responsible for 1 Sunday service and Choir.  Piano and/or organ experience.  This is a paid position.  Please call 724-475-3712 and leave a message with your contact information if interested.

 

Organist/Choir Director

Shenango Presbyterian Church is looking for an organist/choir director.  This is a paid position.  Please contact Amy Na at the church office at 724-654-2322.  Come and worship with us!

This Week:

February 25- 5:30 PM Budget & Finance Committee Meeting, Presbytery Office
March 4- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
 

Lost and Found

A small green purse (like a long change purse) was left in the Witherspoon Rooms last night after the Presbytery meeting.  If yours, please contact Diane at the Chapel Office at 724-946-7117.  If not claimed in the next few days, it will go the lost and found office.

 

Come and meet Elmarie and Scott Parker

Elmaire and Scott Parker have been serving Christ this past year in the Middle East.  Hear how the Church is sharing the hope and love found only in Christ with all those around them during this very challenging time.

• Saturday, February 28:  3 pm Presbytery Event, Trinity Presbyterian Church (110 East Market Street, Mercer, PA 16137).
• Sunday, March 1 for Worship:  Elmarie  at 11:00 pm, Trinity Presbyterian Church (110 East Market Street, Mercer, PA 16137)  Scott at 10:30, Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church (220 Clen-Moore Blvd., New Castle, PA 16102)
• Evening Presbytery reception at 6:00 pm, MoCo  (new coffee house in Bessemer)  206 E. Poland Ave, Bessemer, PA 16112

 

Highmark Member Records Potentially Compromised by Data Breach at Anthem

A late-January cyberattack on Anthem Inc. compromised the data of as many as 80 million Anthem plan members. The Board of Pensions has learned that some Highmark member data on Anthem’s systems may also be at risk.

Highmark Blue Cross (the Board of Pensions’ service provider for the Medical Plan) participates in the national Blue Cross BlueCard network, sharing certain member information with local Blue Cross plans, including Anthem Blue Cross, to pay providers and process claims locally. The information compromised during the attack on Anthem’s systems includes names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of Medical Plan members who have, or may have had, claims for services with providers participating in Anthem Blue Cross.

Within the next few weeks, as Anthem and the FBI continue their investigations, Anthem will send a letter by U.S. mail to current and former Highmark and Anthem plan members whose data may have been compromised. The letter will offer free credit monitoring and identity protection services. The Board of Pensions encourages you to accept these services if you receive a letter.

Important Note: Anthem will not contact members by phone or email and will not request credit card or Social Security numbers. They will contact members by mail only.

The letter from Anthem will provide further details, including additional contact information. Benefits Plan members with questions may call Anthem toll-free at 877-263-7995, visit the website anthemfacts.com, or read their Frequently Asked Questions.

Ride-Share Wanted

Robbie Arnold is looking to ride-share to the PTS program, “Journey Within, Journey Without” on March 17.  Is there anyone that she might ride with, sharing the cost of gas?  Contact Robbie at 724-983-0194 (Hermitage).

 

2015 IRS Mileage Rates Announced

The rate for reimbursement of business mileage for 2015 was recently announced by the Internal Revenue Service as 57.5 cents per mile.  The rate in 2014 was 56 cents a mile.  Charitable mileage for which a deduction can be taken remains at 14 cents a mile.  Thank you for making this information available to your church treasurer.

2014 “Tax Guide for Ministers” Available

The Tax Guide for Ministers, updated for the 2014 tax year, was recently mailed to active and retired teaching elders. It is also available on Benefits Connect, accessible from pensions.org. The Web module Tax Tips for Members & Churches has been updated as well. Tax Tips is in the Tax Resource Center of Board University, which can be reached from the Members & Employers menu on the pensions.org home page.

“Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches” Updated

The Federal Reporting Requirements for Churches has been updated to provide guidance for the 2015 tax year. It is available on Benefits Connect, accessible from pensions.org. The Web module Tax Tips for Members & Churches has been updated as well. Tax Tips is in the Tax Resource Center of Board University, which can be reached from the Members & Employers menu on the pensions.org home page.

Looking For Donations For The Dominican Republic

25 persons, most from Shenango churches, will make the annual ministry visit to Sabaneta de Yasica, on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.  At least three Shenango churches have shared in a partnership with a Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana congregation in that community.  The IED was founded by American Presbyterians, Methodists, and Moravians.  To support the ongoing ministry of the Sabaneta congregation, we are looking for donations for the following items:

– working video projectors, new or used

– new or gentle used baseballs and gloves

– pencils, paper, crayons and general school supplies

– new or gentle used liturgical stoles for a female pastor

– a gently used communion set (trays for small cups and plate(s) for bread)

Items can be dropped off at the presbytery office by April 13, 2015, or contact the office if you need someone to pick up some items.

 

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16

– www.wcdpittsburgh.com.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar – tbribar@gmail.com.

 

Continuing Education Opportunities in the Pittsburgh Area

This spring the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center will be in Pittsburgh, leading two training events for church leaders.  Healthy Congregations will take place on March 20-21, 2015 at Pittsburgh Mennonite Church.  Mediation Skills Training Institute for Church Leaders will take place from May 11-15, 2015 also at Pittsburgh Mennonite Church.  More information on both events can be found at www.LMPeaceCenter.org.

 

Christian Music Fest

The Christian Associates of the Shenango Valley are sponsoring a “Christian Music Fest” on Sunday, March 1, 2015, 3;30 PM at the St. Paul’s UCC, Todd Ave., Hermitage.  All churches are invited to participate by sharing one musical selection – anything from a solo to a choir anthem, instrumental, etc.  To share in the program please call Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 (jraysing@verizon.net).

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality presents the 29^th Annual Christy Lecture on Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel with guest speaker, Dr. R. Bruce Bickel.  Dr. Bickel is the president and founder of Transformational Leadership Group, a company he formed in 2003 to train audiences in character-based leadership. As a dynamic, motivational speaker, Dr. Bickel is committed to transforming the way leaders can achieve both individual and organizational excellence.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality Chapel Drama will present the musical “Leap of Faith” on Friday, March 20^th at 7:30 PM, Saturday, March 21^st at 7:30 PM and Sunday, March 22^nd at 6:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  The musical is free and open to the public.  A free will offering will be received at the intermission in support of the show and Campus Ministry programming.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality extends an invitation to the community to attend our Palm Sunday Vespers on Sunday, March 29^th at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.   The service will include the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Rev. Jim Mohr, College Chaplain will be preaching “In the Crowd, Waving”, and music will be provided by the Second Chance Praise Team and the Westminster Women’s Chorus.

Making a Wake: Integrating Faith, Life, and Work as We Follow Christ

Join Christopher Brown, Co-Pastor of The Upper Room Presbyterian Church and Vera White, Associate of 1001 Worshipping Communities on March 17^th from 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM in the Knox Room, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for a time of learning and reflecting on the example of Celtic saints and its meaning for us today.  For more information, visit http://www.pts.edu/JIJO_2015.

History of Gospel Workshop & Concert

Join the Center for Urban Biblical Ministry April 10^th and 11^th at Eastminster Presbyterian Church for a workshop and concert exploring the history of Gospel music.  George W. Russell, Jr., Professor of Harmony and Piano at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, will lead the workshops and perform a concert at the end of the event.  Tickets for the workshops are $10, tickets for the concert at $10 in advance, $15 at the door.  For more information, call the CUBM office at 412-247-9010.

 

News from the Churches

Presbyterian Plunge

Congratulations to Highland Church for having the top fundraising team in the fifth annual Lawrence County Habitat for Humanity “Douse for a House Polar Plunge”.  Read the full story here.

 

Don’t Forget Your Backpack!

Lindsay Rodgers and Sarah Gibson from the Stoneboro church gave tours of the supply room for the Lakeview Area Backpack Program during a recent open house for the community.  Like many similar ministries in the region, the Backpack program provides a weekend’s worth of shelf-stable, non-perishable food items for public school children who face food insecurity in their home life.  Like Stoneboro, many Shenango congregations are involved in packing up food each week in various backpack ministries in school districts around our presbytery.  To learn more about the Lakeview program, contact Lindsay Rodgers.

What Are Your Dreams?

Scoffers might say that the only dreaming done in some churches is during the sermon.  But members of the Wurtemburg church dream out loud.  Under the direction of their pastor, Rev. Dan Stinson, Wurtemburg members shared in a “dreaming” session during which past and current ministries were named, classified, and celebrated, and then future ministries considered.  What dreams do you have for God’s work in and around your congregation? — RWH

Indoor Yard Sale

The Presbyterian Women of Unity Church, 1857 Mercer W. Middlesex Rd., Mercer, PA  are holding an “Indoor Yard Sale” on Friday, March 13 from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday, March 14, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Lunch will be available.  Proceeds go to missions.  If you wish to donate unwanted items for the sale, PW is at the church on Wednesdays from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM.  Any questions?  Contact Mary Alice Marsh at 724-662-2491.

Music Director Wanted

Coolspring Presbyterian Church is looking for a Music Director responsible for 1 Sunday service and Choir.  Piano and/or organ experience.  This is a paid position.  Please call 724-475-3712 and leave a message with your contact information if interested.

 

Organist/Choir Director

Shenango Presbyterian Church is looking for an organist/choir director.  This is a paid position.  Please contact Amy Na at the church office at 724-654-2322.  Come and worship with us!

This Week:

February 17- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock, NW
February 23- 9:00 AM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
February 24- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, Westminster College (Look for more details in a special eLink later this week!)
 

Annual Reports

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 password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is this Wednesday, February 18, 2014 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office.  If you are unable to complete your statistics by the deadline, please contact the Presbytery office ASAP…we have a short window of time to input statistics once the system closes to the churches.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, preached at Clen-Moore on February 1 and Westfield, ECO (February 15), and will preach at Wurtemburg (February 22). He met with current Commissioned Ruling Elders and those who have completed CRE training (February 8).  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.

Response to Egyptian Deaths

In November, Rev. Rich Kinney (Highland) and I spent a wonderful evening in the offices of The Bible Society of Egypt  celebrating the 150th anniversary of the standard Arabic translation of the Bible.  I was thoroughly impressed with the leadership of Ramez Atallah, long-time director of the Society.  Ramez is an innovative businessman and thoughtful follower of Jesus, a theologian in his own right.  He is known around the world for leading one of the most effective Bible societies — producing translations of scripture and associated devotional materials — anywhere in the world.  Read his thoughtful response to the recent ISIS killings in Libya.  — Ralph

 

Come and meet Elmarie and Scott Parker

Elmaire and Scott Parker have been serving Christ this past year in the Middle East.  Hear how the Church is sharing the hope and love found only in Christ with all those around them during this very challenging time.

• Saturday, February 28:  3 pm Presbytery Event, Trinity Presbyterian Church (110 East Market Street, Mercer, PA 16137).
• Sunday, March 1 for Worship:  Elmarie  at 11:00 pm, Trinity Presbyterian Church (110 East Market Street, Mercer, PA 16137)  Scott at 10:30, Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church (220 Clen-Moore Blvd., New Castle, PA 16102)
• Evening Presbytery reception at 6:00 pm, MoCo  (new coffee house in Bessemer)  206 E. Poland Ave, Bessemer, PA 16112

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 this ministry, please let Ralph know at ralph@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.

 

2015 IRS Mileage Rates Announced

The rate for reimbursement of business mileage for 2015 was recently announced by the Internal Revenue Service as 57.5 cents per mile.  The rate in 2014 was 56 cents a mile.  Charitable mileage for which a deduction can be taken remains at 14 cents a mile.  Thank you for making this information available to your church treasurer.

 

Looking For Donations For The Dominican Republic

25 persons, most from Shenango churches, will make the annual ministry visit to Sabaneta de Yasica, on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic.  At least three Shenango churches have shared in a partnership with a Iglesia Evangélica Dominicana congregation in that community.  The IED was founded by American Presbyterians, Methodists, and Moravians.  To support the ongoing ministry of the Sabaneta congregation, we are looking for donations for the following items:

– working video projectors, new or used

– new or gentle used baseballs and gloves

– pencils, paper, crayons and general school supplies

– new or gentle used liturgical stoles for a female pastor

– a gently used communion set (trays for small cups and plate(s) for bread)

Items can be dropped off at the presbytery office by April 13, 2015, or contact the office if you need someone to pick up some items.

 

The World Christian Discipleship program is receiving applications for 2015-16

– www.wcdpittsburgh.com.  WCD, a program of World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, is a nine-month immersion in missional formation for young adult Christians.  Participants are formed spiritually as they engage in the church’s rich heritage through reading, prayer and regular fellowship with one another (a rule of life for the 21st century), while participating in ministry in the local church and mission to the world.  Contact Rev. Tom Ribar – tbribar@gmail.com.

 

Continuing Education Opportunities in the Pittsburgh Area

This spring the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center will be in Pittsburgh, leading two training events for church leaders.  Healthy Congregations will take place on March 20-21, 2015 at Pittsburgh Mennonite Church.  Mediation Skills Training Institute for Church Leaders will take place from May 11-15, 2015 also at Pittsburgh Mennonite Church.  More information on both events can be found at www.LMPeaceCenter.org.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality Ash Wednesday Worship on February 18^th at 11:40 AM and 4:30 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  Father Michael Peck, Rector at St. Camillus Church in New Castle, PA will be the preacher at the 4:30 PM service, with music by the Women’s Chorus.  The 11:40 AM service will be a brief service with Distribution of Ashes at both services.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality presents the 29^th Annual Christy Lecture on Sunday, March 1, 2015 at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel with guest speaker, Dr. R. Bruce Bickel.  Dr. Bickel is the president and founder of Transformational Leadership Group, a company he formed in 2003 to train audiences in character-based leadership. As a dynamic, motivational speaker, Dr. Bickel is committed to transforming the way leaders can achieve both individual and organizational excellence.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality Chapel Drama will present the musical “Leap of Faith” on Friday, March 20^th at 7:30 PM, Saturday, March 21^st at 7:30 PM and Sunday, March 22^nd at 6:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  The musical is free and open to the public.  A free will offering will be received at the intermission in support of the show and Campus Ministry programming.

 

Westminster College Office of Faith and Spirituality extends an invitation to the community to attend our Palm Sunday Vespers on Sunday, March 29^th at 7:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.   The service will include the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Rev. Jim Mohr, College Chaplain will be preaching “In the Crowd, Waving”, and music will be provided by the Second Chance Praise Team and the Westminster Women’s Chorus.

 

News from the Churches

Music Director Wanted

Coolspring Presbyterian Church is looking for a Music Director responsible for 1 Sunday service and Choir.  Piano and/or organ experience.  This is a paid position.  Please call 724-475-3712 and leave a message with your contact information if interested.

 

Organist/Choir Director

Shenango Presbyterian Church is looking for an organist/choir director.  This is a paid position.  Please contact Amy Na at the church office at 724-654-2322.  Come and worship with us!

Did You Know?  An Update on Church Partners in Egypt and Sudan  CANCELLED

The presentation scheduled for tomorrow evening with Revs. Rich Kinney (Highland, New Castle) and Ralph Hawkins (Executive Presbyter) has been cancelled due to the predicted weather.