This Week:

• October 6- 8:15 AM, ENGAGE Evangelism Workshop, Leesburg
• October 7- 7:00 PM, Celebrate Sudan Event, East Main
• October 9- 11:30 AM, “Staying In” lunch and discussion, Something’s Brewing Coffee Shop, Shenango Valley Mall

Temporary Housing Need

A very allergic person (no pets) would like to rent a room as temporary housing near the center of the Presbytery while she is seeking a permanent residence.  If you know of a possibility, please contact the Presbytery Office.

Committee on Ministry Recommendation for 2013 Minimum Salary

The COM is recommending to Presbytery (September 25) that the minimum salary/housing for 2013 be $46,725.  This is an increase of 1.5% from 2012.  All new calls must meet and maintain minimum.  The 1.5% is a guideline for increases for those pastors who are above minimum.  The Board of Pensions dues in 2013 will be 33%.  The dues have been increased 3/4% in 2012 and 2013.  This is not related to the domestic partners provisions.  The salary/housing and pension/major medical increases add approximately $1,000 to the minimum cost for a full-time pastor.

New DVD Series by Ken Bailey

Ken Bailey, with the support of the Synod of the Trinity, has produced a new DVD series on “Christian Leadership in the New Testament”.  Click herehttp://www.syntrinity.org/182/Ken_Bailey_Video_Leadership_Series.html to find them on YouTube.  We will also have copies in the Resource Center.

“Staying In” Lunch and Discussion- LAST CALL!!!

The “Staying In” lunch and discussion for all pastors and CREs will meet  Tuesday, October 9th, 11:30 – 1:30 PM at the “Something’s Brewing” coffee shop in the Shenango Valley Mall, Hermitage.   If you plan to attend, please contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org or 724-981-2211 ext. 2) by Wednesday, October 3rd, so appropriate lunch reservations can be made.  The discussion will focus on: 1-the possibility of an essential theological statement for the Presbytery; 2-rethinking the structure of the Presbytery for the realities on ministry in the 21st C.; 3-the formation of covenant partnerships between churches and between pastors for support and best practices.

You Can Still Join the “Sudan Celebration Choir”

Calling all who like to sing to be part of the “Sudan Celebration Choir” which will sing at the Celebration at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7th.  Even if you missed the practice session this past Sunday, you are still invited to join in.  There will be a practice before the program on Sunday, October 7th at East Main Presbyterian Church at 5:30 PM.  The anthem is based on an African folk song and is entitled “He Is Mine”.  For more information, contact Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 or jraysing@verizon.net.

Christian Education for Adults

Teachers and Leaders of Christian Education for Adults – If you are leading  – or want to lead – an Adult Bible Study or an Adult Sunday School Class or a Small Group, come to the Dinner for Leaders of Adult Education on Wednesday, October 3rd at 6:00 PM at The Tavern on the Square (108 N. Market St., New Wilmington).  Our speakers will be Alice Otto from Highland Church, and Rev. Bob Bardeen and Keith Breuer from Westfield Church.  No need for reservations, just come!  The dinner is free.

News from the Churches

LAST CHANCE! Register for the Fall 2012 Pastor Retreat

Dr. Laura Smit from Calvin College (Grand Rapids, MI) will be speaking in Shenango Presbytery on the topic “Why Reformed Theology Matters in the 21st Century”.

• Open meeting at 5:30 PM on Sunday, October 21 at the McKelvey Center, Westminster College
• Pastors Retreat – October 22-23.  Click here to register.

Resolution recommended by Presbytery Council to Shenango Presbytery (September 25)

The Council (September 4) recommended that the following resolution by approved by Presbytery at the November 13th meeting at Word Centered Fellowship (Bethlehem Campus).

Committee on Ministry Recommendation for 2013 Minimum Salary

The COM is recommending to Presbytery (September 25) that the minimum salary/housing for 2013 be $46,725.  This is an increase of 1.5% from 2012.  All new calls must meet and maintain minimum.  The 1.5% is a guideline for increases for those pastors who are above minimum.  The Board of Pensions dues in 2013 will be 33%.  The dues have been increased 3/4% in 2012 and 2013.  This is not related to the domestic partners provisions.  The salary/housing and pension/major medical increases add approximately $1,000 to the minimum cost for a full-time pastor.

New DVD Series by Ken Bailey

Ken Bailey, with the support of the Synod of the Trinity, has produced a new DVD series on “Christian Leadership in the New Testament”.  Click here http://www.syntrinity.org/182/Ken_Bailey_Video_Leadership_Series.html to find them on YouTube.  We will also have copies in the Resource Center.

Right Here / Right Now

It’s happening…get on board!  This special local mission program for churches in Lawrence and Mercer counties will begin in October 2012.  The mission experiment will focus on training members of partner churches to build relationships with people outside churches, and form various types of Christian communities (i.e. studies, discussions, prayer groups, and maybe even a worshipping community).  All pastors, mission teams, elders and church members who are interested in participating in this mission, or in finding out more, are invited to a meeting at the Penn State Shenango (147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon) Student Center, Sunday, September 30, 5:00-6:00 PM.  Contact Rev. Nathan Loudon (revn8loudon@yahoo.com) or Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org) for more information.

“Staying In” Lunch and Discussion

The next meeting will be Tuesday, October 9th, 11:30 – 1:30 PM at the “Something’s Brewing” coffee shop in the Shenango Valley Mall, Hermitage.  This discussion will include: 1-a possible theological project for a Presbytery statement of faith, 2-rethinking Presbytery structure for ministry and mission in the 21st C., 3-partnerships for pastors and churches that encourage support, accountability, learning, and listening for God.  If you plan to come, please contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org or 724-981-2211 ext. 2) by Wednesday, October 3rd, so lunch preparations can be made.  The deadline for reservations is October 3rd.

Celebrate Sudan 2012 – World Communion Sunday

This year’s Celebrate Sudan event will take place on the evening of World Communion Sunday (October 7^th) at East Main Presbyterian Church in Grove City.   Sessions need to vote to authorize the Celebrate Sudan offering which we hope can be received at our churches’ World Communion services the morning of October 7th.  You may want to make sure that steps along these lines are being taken at your church.  Information and promotional materials about the Celebrate Sudan event will be mailed to churches in early in September.   We hope many people from our churches will attend this informative and exciting event.

Join the “Sudan Celebration Choir”

Calling all who like to sing to be part of the “Sudan Celebration Choir” which will sing at the Celebration at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7th.  Practices will be: Sunday evening, September 30th – 7 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road.  There will be a practice before the program on Sunday, October 7th at East Main Presbyterian Church at 5:30 PM.  The anthem is based on an African folk song and is entitled “He Is Mine”.  Those interested in singing should come to one or both of these rehearsals so that we might make a beautiful sound of praise together.  For more information, contact Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 or jraysing@verizon.net.

ENGAGE Workshop Coming Soon – Register Now!

Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Leesburg Presbyterian Church from 9 AM to 2:30 PM (Please note the change in ending time), join the Evangelism Committee for a special workshop with Ray Jones returning from the Office of Evangelism and Church Growth in Louisville.  This workshop will focus on the newly revised Engage Resource.  Topics to be addressed include Engage the Gospel, Engage Discipleship, Engage Mission, How to Use the Engage Resource, Walking Through a Gathering, and Next Steps.  There is no registration fee.  Lunch will be provided as will copies of the new Engage resource for each participant.  To register, please call or email the Presbytery Office with the number attending from your congregation – office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.  SHENANGO ENGAGE WORKSHOP 2 fLYER – 2 (NOTE: The ending time has been changed to 2:30 PM!)

Christian Education for Adults

If you are leading – or want to lead – an Adult Bible Study or an Adult Sunday School class or a Small Group, come to the Dinner for Leaders of Adult Education on Wednesday, October 3rd at 6:00 PM at The Tavern on the Square (108 N. Market St., New Wilmington, PA). Our speaker will be Rev. Bob Bardeen and a Home Group Leader from Westfield Church. No need for reservations, just come! The dinner is free.

CAPNWP Volunteer Work Days

• Camp Lambec – Saturday, September 29th
• Westminster Highlands – Saturday, October 13

Both days will include lunch and will run from 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM.  All ages and skill levels are welcome.  Feel free to bring your favorite tools for yard work or indoor cleaning.

Opportunity to Host Rev. Wilfred Orr, PCUSA International Peacemaker on Saturday, October 6

In 2012, Wilfred was presented with an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s honors list for “Service to Community Relations.” Throughout his time in Newtownbreda he has been a leading figure in the Ballynafeigh Clergy Fellowship and has worked tirelessly to promote both stronger ties between churches of all traditions in the district and between those from different cultural, social and political backgrounds. The proactive role played by the Ballynafeigh Clergy Fellowship is viewed as significant in contributing to this district remaining one of the areas in Northern Ireland most balanced between Protestant/Unionist and Catholic/Nationalist populations in spite of the polarizing impact of “The Troubles.”

News from the Churches

Pastors Retreat Registration Deadline Next Week

Please register NOW [click here] for the Pastors Retreat with Laura Smit on October 22 – 23.  There will also be an open meeting at the McKelvey Center at Westminster College at 5:30 pm on Sunday, October 21.  Attached [Laura Smit] is some background on Dr. Smit who teaches at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI.  Her topic will be “Why Reformed Theology Matters in the 21st Century?”

The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at First Presbyterian Church, Greenville. 

Highlights of the meeting include:

• Celebration of Communion
• Presentation of Resolution recommended by Presbytery Council (available for download by clicking the link below)
• Prayer for the Sudan and information about the Celebrate Sudan event on World Communion Sunday
• Last chance to register for the Pastor Retreat (October 22-23)- form in packet

Get the Docket, Council minutes, and Resolution at:  http://www.shenango.org/News/meeting.htm

This Week:

• September 18- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock, NW
• September 20- 8:30 Am Missional Experimentation Event, Camp Crestfield
• September 21- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office
• September 25- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, 1st Greenville (watch for more information coming soon!)

Register for the Fall 2012 Pastor Retreat

Dr. Laura Smit from Calvin College (Grand Rapids, MI) will be speaking in Shenango Presbytery on the topic “Why Reformed Theology Matters in the 21st Century”.

• Open meeting at 5:30 PM on Sunday, October 21 at the McKelvey Center, Westminster College
• Pastors Retreat – October 22-23.  Click here to register by September 25.

Prayers

• Janet Graham de Araujo (Grace Memorial Hospital in Brazil) died on Thursday, September 6th.  Janet’s daughter Sylvia will be continuing the work of the hospital.

Resolution recommended by Presbytery Council to Shenango Presbytery (September 25)

The Council (September 4) recommended that the following resolution by approved by Presbytery at the September 25 meeting at First Church, Greenville.

Right Here / Right Now

It’s happening…get on board!  This special local mission program for churches in Lawrence and Mercer counties will begin in October 2012.  The mission experiment will focus on training members of partner churches to build relationships with people outside churches, and form various types of Christian communities (i.e. studies, discussions, prayer groups, and maybe even a worshipping community).  All pastors, mission teams, elders and church members who are interested in participating in this mission, or in finding out more, are invited to a meeting at the Penn State Shenango (147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon) Student Center, Sunday, September 30, 5:00-6:00 PM.  Contact Rev. Nathan Loudon (revn8loudon@yahoo.com) or Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org) for more information.

“Staying In” Lunch and Discussion

Amidst the change and sadness of churches and pastors being dismissed to other Presbyterian denominations, Shenango Presbytery pastors have gotten together for lunch, fellowship, and discussion.  The discussions have been opportunities to share concerns and ask questions.  Out of these two lunch discussions has come some new and creative thinking and dreaming about the changing shape of Shenango Presbytery for the 21st C.  The next “Staying In” Lunch and Discussion will be Tuesday, October 9th, 11:30 – 1:30 PM at the Something’s Brewing coffee shop in the Shenango Valley Mall in Hermitage.  This lunch is open to all Shenango pastors and Commissioned Ruling Elders, and especially for those who are interested in discussing ministry within the PCUSA.  The past two lunches have had 30+ in attendance.  If you are interested in attending the October 9th “Staying In” lunch and discussion, please contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org or 724-981-2211 ext. 2) by Wednesday, October 3rd, so appropriate lunch preparations can be made.

News from Gereif Bible School

The Sudan Partnership Leadership Team is happy to report that when we talked in July by phone with Daniel Hamad, the principal of Gereif Bible School,  he surprised us with the news that the school was planning to begin this year’s term on August 15th.  The school sustained significant damage to much equipment and some buildings, and monies stored in safes was stolen.  By far the most significant loss was to books and other resources in the library which is estimated at about a quarter of a million dollars.  Our contacts at the school have given us estimates that the other losses mentioned above amount to about $20,000.  We are hoping to raise a significant part of this with the Celebrate Sudan 2012 offering.  We are pleased that the work of Gereif Bible School is going forward in spite of the hardships brought about through the attack this spring.  The training done at Gereif and Komo Bible Schools is so important.  Bill Anderson, long time missionary in Sudan with his wife Lois, has said that the evangelists trained in these schools has been the key element in SPECs growth.

Celebrate Sudan 2012 – World Communion Sunday

This year’s Celebrate Sudan event will take place on the evening of World Communion Sunday (October 7^th) at East Main Presbyterian Church in Grove City.   Sessions need to vote to authorize the Celebrate Sudan offering which we hope can be received at our churches’ World Communion services the morning of October 7th.  You may want to make sure that steps along these lines are being taken at your church.  Information and promotional materials about the Celebrate Sudan event will be mailed to churches in early in September.   We hope many people from our churches will attend this informative and exciting event.

Join the “Sudan Celebration Choir”

Calling all who like to sing to be part of the “Sudan Celebration Choir” which will sing at the Celebration at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7th.  Practices will be: Sunday evening, September 30th – 7 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road.  There will be a practice before the program on Sunday, October 7th at East Main Presbyterian Church at 5:30 PM.  The anthem is based on an African folk song and is entitled “He Is Mine”.  Those interested in singing should come to one or both of these rehearsals so that we might make a beautiful sound of praise together.  For more information, contact Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 or jraysing@verizon.net.

ENGAGE Workshop Coming Soon – Register Now!

Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Leesburg Presbyterian Church from 9 AM to 2:30 PM (Please note the change in ending time), join the Evangelism Committee for a special workshop with Ray Jones returning from the Office of Evangelism and Church Growth in Louisville.  This workshop will focus on the newly revised Engage Resource.  Topics to be addressed include Engage the Gospel, Engage Discipleship, Engage Mission, How to Use the Engage Resource, Walking Through a Gathering, and Next Steps.  There is no registration fee.  Lunch will be provided as will copies of the new Engage resource for each participant.  To register, please call or email the Presbytery Office with the number attending from your congregation – office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.  SHENANGO ENGAGE WORKSHOP 2 fLYER – 2

Spiritual Emphasis Week at Westminster College (September 19-23)

Local Churches and Community are invited to the following events:  

Wednesday, September 19, 2012, 9:30 PM  –  Berlin Lounge   JASON SANTOS, Associate Pastor, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  Jason is the author of A Community Called Taizé: A Story of Prayer, Worship and Reconciliation (IVP, 2008).  

Thursday, September 20, 2012, 8:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel,            LOUIS LIPPS, Former Pittsburgh Steeler.  Louis Lipps is a former American football wide receiver in the NFL who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.  He currently works for Steel City Mortgage Services in Pittsburgh and is the co-host of a weekly Steelers-themed radio broadcast on ESPN radio 1250 AM.

Sunday, September 23, 2012, 7:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel  OPEN DOOR WORSHIP,  Guest Speaker:  BOB GOFF.  Bob Goff is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Restore International, a non-profit organization which was established to address the atrocities and injustices committed against children.

Christian Education for Adults

If you are leading – or want to lead – an Adult Bible Study or an Adult Sunday School class or a Small Group, come to the Dinner for Leaders of Adult Education on Wednesday, October 3rd at 6:00 PM at The Tavern on the Square (108 N. Market St., New Wilmington, PA). Our speaker will be Rev. Bob Bardeen and a Home Group Leader from Westfield Church. No need for reservations, just come! The dinner is free.

CAPNWP Volunteer Work Days

• Camp Lambec – Saturday, September 29th
• Westminster Highlands – Saturday, October 13

Both days will include lunch and will run from 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM.  All ages and skill levels are welcome.  Feel free to bring your favorite tools for yard work or indoor cleaning.

Opportunity to Host Rev. Wilfred Orr, PCUSA International Peacemaker on Saturday, October 6

In 2012, Wilfred was presented with an Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s honors list for “Service to Community Relations.” Throughout his time in Newtownbreda he has been a leading figure in the Ballynafeigh Clergy Fellowship and has worked tirelessly to promote both stronger ties between churches of all traditions in the district and between those from different cultural, social and political backgrounds. The proactive role played by the Ballynafeigh Clergy Fellowship is viewed as significant in contributing to this district remaining one of the areas in Northern Ireland most balanced between Protestant/Unionist and Catholic/Nationalist populations in spite of the polarizing impact of “The Troubles.” 

News from the Churches

This Week:

• September 12- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
• September 13- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
  1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington PC
• September 18- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock, NW

Right Here / Right Now

It’s happening…get on board!  This special local mission program for churches in Lawrence and Mercer counties will begin in October 2012.  The mission experiment will focus on training members of partner churches to build relationships with people outside churches, and form various types of Christian communities (i.e. studies, discussions, prayer groups, and maybe even a worshipping community).  All pastors, mission teams, elders and church members who are interested in participating in this mission, or in finding out more, are invited to a meeting at the Penn State Shenango (147 Shenango Avenue, Sharon) Student Center, Sunday, September 30, 5:00-6:00 PM.  Contact Rev. Nathan Loudon (revn8loudon@yahoo.com) or Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink (pastor@1stpcs.org) for more information.

News from Gereif Bible School

The Sudan Partnership Leadership Team is happy to report that when we talked in July by phone with Daniel Hamad, the principal of Gereif Bible School,  he surprised us with the news that the school was planning to begin this year’s term on August 15th.  The school sustained significant damage to much equipment and some buildings, and monies stored in safes was stolen.  By far the most significant loss was to books and other resources in the library which is estimated at about a quarter of a million dollars.  Our contacts at the school have given us estimates that the other losses mentioned above amount to about $20,000.  We are hoping to raise a significant part of this with the Celebrate Sudan 2012 offering.  We are pleased that the work of Gereif Bible School is going forward in spite of the hardships brought about through the attack this spring.  The training done at Gereif and Komo Bible Schools is so important.  Bill Anderson, long time missionary in Sudan with his wife Lois, has said that the evangelists trained in these schools has been the key element in SPECs growth.

Celebrate Sudan 2012 – World Communion Sunday

This year’s Celebrate Sudan event will take place on the evening of World Communion Sunday (October 7^th) at East Main Presbyterian Church in Grove City.   Sessions need to vote to authorize the Celebrate Sudan offering which we hope can be received at our churches’ World Communion services the morning of October 7th.  You may want to make sure that steps along these lines are being taken at your church.  Information and promotional materials about the Celebrate Sudan event will be mailed to churches in early in September.   We hope many people from our churches will attend this informative and exciting event.

Join the “Sudan Celebration Choir”

Calling all who like to sing to be part of the “Sudan Celebration Choir” which will sing at the Celebration at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7th.  Practices will be: Sunday evening, September 30th – 7 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road.  There will be a practice before the program on Sunday, October 7th at East Main Presbyterian Church at 5:30 PM.  The anthem is based on an African folk song and is entitled “He Is Mine”.  Those interested in singing should come to one or both of these rehearsals so that we might make a beautiful sound of praise together.  For more information, contact Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 or jraysing@verizon.net.

Wee Kirk NE

Now is the time to register for “Wee Kirk NE” — which will be October 15-16-17 at the Laurelville Conference Center near Mt. Pleasant, PA.  This is a great time of inspiration and refreshment.  ALL people from small churches are invited to attend.  Cost is $75 a couple or $50 for single.  Flyers are available.  This is a ministry of Presbyterians for Renewal.

ENGAGE Workshop Coming Soon – Register Now!

Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Leesburg Presbyterian Church from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, join the Evangelism Committee for a special workshop with Ray Jones returning from the Office of Evangelism and Church Growth in Louisville.  This workshop will focus on the newly revised Engage Resource.  Topics to be addressed include Engage the Gospel, Engage Discipleship, Engage Mission, How to Use the Engage Resource, Walking Through a Gathering, and Next Steps.  There is no registration fee.  Lunch will be provided as will copies of the new Engage resource for each participant.  To register, please call or email the Presbytery Office with the number attending from your congregation – office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.  SHENANGO ENGAGE WORKSHOP 2 fLYER – 2

Continuing Education Opportunity – BROADCAST SEMINAR at Westminster College

From Malachi to Matthew – James E. Davison, Director of Continuing Education, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  By the time Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the world of Old Testament times had changed drastically. In this series of classes, we will examine “the time between the Testaments,” looking at key developments in Jewish life in Palestine. Understanding major events like the coming of the Roman legions, the rise of synagogues, and the emergence of the Pharisees, Essenes, and other groups will enable us not only to understand better the world that Jesus experienced in 30 A.D., but also to appreciate the Gospels more fully.  Wednesday evenings, Oct. 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2012  from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. at Westminster College, Old Main 210.  The course is FREE to all Pastors and church members of the Presbytery of Shenango.  All others the cost is $50.00.  Registration deadline is Friday, September 14, 2012 by contacting the Office of Faith and Spirituality at Westminster College (724) 946-7117 or via e-mail at gabriedl@westminster.edu.

Spiritual Emphasis Week at Westminster College (September 19-23)

Local Churches and Community are invited to the following events:  

Wednesday, September 19, 2012, 9:30 PM  –  Berlin Lounge   JASON SANTOS, Associate Pastor, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  Jason is the author of A Community Called Taizé: A Story of Prayer, Worship and Reconciliation (IVP, 2008).  

Thursday, September 20, 2012, 8:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel,            LOUIS LIPPS, Former Pittsburgh Steeler.  Louis Lipps is a former American football wide receiver in the NFL who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.  He currently works for Steel City Mortgage Services in Pittsburgh and is the co-host of a weekly Steelers-themed radio broadcast on ESPN radio 1250 AM.

Sunday, September 23, 2012, 7:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel  OPEN DOOR WORSHIP,  Guest Speaker:  BOB GOFF.  Bob Goff is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Restore International, a non-profit organization which was established to address the atrocities and injustices committed against children.

News from the Churches

Continuing Education Opportunity – BROADCAST SEMINAR at Westminster College

From Malachi to Matthew — James E. Davison, Director of Continuing Education, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  By the time Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the world of Old Testament times had changed drastically. In this series of classes, we will examine “the time between the Testaments,” looking at key developments in Jewish life in Palestine. Understanding major events like the coming of the Roman legions, the rise of synagogues, and the emergence of the Pharisees, Essenes, and other groups will enable us not only to understand better the world that Jesus experienced in 30 A.D., but also to appreciate the Gospels more fully.  Wednesday evenings, Oct. 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2012  from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. at Westminster College, Old Main 210.  The course is FREE to all Pastors and church members of the Presbytery of Shenango.  All others the cost is $50.00.  Registration deadline is Friday, September 14, 2012 by contacting the Office of Faith and Spirituality at Westminster College (724) 946-7117 or via e-mail at gabriedl@westminster.edu.

Spiritual Emphasis Week at Westminster College (September 19-23)

Local Churches and Community are invited to the following events:  

Wednesday, September 19, 2012, 9:30 PM  –  Berlin Lounge   JASON SANTOS, Associate Pastor, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  Jason is the author of A Community Called Taizé: A Story of Prayer, Worship and Reconciliation (IVP, 2008).  

Thursday, September 20, 2012, 8:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel,            LOUIS LIPPS, Former Pittsburgh Steeler.  Louis Lipps is a former American football wide receiver in the NFL who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers.  He currently works for Steel City Mortgage Services in Pittsburgh and is the co-host of a weekly Steelers-themed radio broadcast on ESPN radio 1250 AM.

Sunday, September 23, 2012, 7:00 PM  –  Wallace Memorial Chapel  OPEN DOOR WORSHIP,  Guest Speaker:  BOB GOFF.  Bob Goff is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Restore International, a non-profit organization which was established to address the atrocities and injustices committed against children.  

News from Gereif Bible School

The Sudan Partnership Leadership Team is happy to report that when we talked in July by phone with Daniel Hamad, the principal of Gereif Bible School,  he surprised us with the news that the school was planning to begin this year’s term on August 15th.  The school sustained significant damage to much equipment and some buildings, and monies stored in safes was stolen.  By far the most significant loss was to books and other resources in the library which is estimated at about a quarter of a million dollars.  Our contacts at the school have given us estimates that the other losses mentioned above amount to about $20,000.  We are hoping to raise a significant part of this with the Celebrate Sudan 2012 offering.  We are pleased that the work of Gereif Bible School is going forward in spite of the hardships brought about through the attack this spring.  The training done at Gereif and Komo Bible Schools is so important.  Bill Anderson, long time missionary in Sudan with his wife Lois, has said that the evangelists trained in these schools has been the key element in SPECs growth.

Celebrate Sudan 2012 – World Communion Sunday

This year’s Celebrate Sudan event will take place on the evening of World Communion Sunday (October 7^th) at East Main Presbyterian Church in Grove City.   Sessions need to vote to authorize the Celebrate Sudan offering which we hope can be received at our churches’ World Communion services the morning of October 7th.  You may want to make sure that steps along these lines are being taken at your church.  Information and promotional materials about the Celebrate Sudan event will be mailed to churches in early in September.   We hope many people from our churches will attend this informative and exciting event.

Join the “Sudan Celebration Choir”

Calling all who like to sing to be part of the “Sudan Celebration Choir” which will sing at the Celebration at 7:00 PM on Sunday, October 7th.  Practices will be: Sunday evening, September 30th – 7 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road.  There will be a practice before the program on Sunday, October 7th at East Main Presbyterian Church at 5:30 PM.  The anthem is based on an African folk song and is entitled “He Is Mine”.  Those interested in singing should come to one or both of these rehearsals so that we might make a beautiful sound of praise together.  For more information, contact Jane Bartholomew at 724-981-2377 or jraysing@verizon.net.

Don McClure Lectures at Pittsburgh Seminary

The annual McClure Lectures will feature Dr. Anne-Marie Kool, Professor of Missiology at Karoli Gaspar University of the Reformed Church in Budapest, Hungary.  You are invited to these free lectures entitled, “European Churches’ Perspectives on Mission Among the Roma People” September 24-25, 2012 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  Lectures at 11:30 AM, 4:30 PM, and 7:30 PM on the 24th.  The World Mission Initiative Dinner is at 6 PM.  To make dinner reservations ($12) and for more information, contact ConEd@pts.edu or 412-924-1345.

Growing Into Tomorrow…Today – a Retirement Seminar from the Board of Pensions

November 7-8, 2012 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  Explore the steps you can take today to plan for your best retirement tomorrow.  Register online by October 12 at http://www.pensions.org/seminars.  No charge for BOP members…refreshments and lodging extra.

Render Unto Caesar: Tax Planning Seminar from the Board of Pensions

November 6, 2012 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  Explore clergy taxes and terms of call issues, ensuring that you are taking advantage of the available options and filing correctly for tax purposes.  Register online at http://www.pensions.org/seminars.  No charge for BOP members…refreshments and lodging extra.

Wee Kirk NE

Now is the time to register for “Wee Kirk NE” — which will be October 15-16-17 at the Laurelville Conference Center near Mt. Pleasant, PA.  This is a great time of inspiration and refreshment.  ALL people from small churches are invited to attend.  Cost is $75 a couple or $50 for single.  Flyers are available.  This is a ministry of Presbyterians for Renewal.

Mission Adventure

MISSION ADVENTURE is looking for volunteers for a work trip to WORLD VISION – APPALACHIA in Philippi, West Virginia Sunday, September 16, 2012 (depart in the afternoon) to Friday, September 21, 2012.  The mission work trip will have work projects out in the community doing home improvements/repairs.  OR work at the WorldVision Warehouse – sorting and packing clothes or work in the materials warehouse.  Carpooling: leave Sunday afternoon (less than 3-1/2 hour drive); Lodging: Philippi Inn (ie. Super 8); Meals: Breakfast-self-pay next door to Inn, Lunch- provided (bagged lunch), Dinner- self-pay at local establishments.  Cost: $300.00 per person double-occupancy (this includes a $125.00 per person volunteer fee to WorldVision for work project materials).  Registration: Due Friday, September 7 – email: MissionAdventure@zoominternet.net or call Tom Kaufman at 724-651-4323.

New Castle Area Clergy

PC(USA) clergy of the greater New Castle area will meet in Eat’N Park at 8:00 AM on 9/6/12 and 9/20/12 — and later on the first & third Thursdays — for breakfast, fellowship, and discussion of current joys and concerns.  A guideline (among others): These 60-minute experiences can be significant for all pastors whose parishioners gravitate toward New Castle for healthcare and other services.  Welcome!

Rathburn Hall Opens at Grove City College

Rathburn Hall, the new center for Christian ministries, has opened on the Grove City College campus.  Chaplain, Stan Keehlwetter, invites congregations to utilize this facility for session retreats and other activities.  Catering services are available.  Contact Stan at 724-458-2142 or fskeehlwetter@gcc.edu or Chapel Secretary Donna Cales at 724-458-2143 or djcales@gcc.edu.

 

ENGAGE Workshop Coming Soon – Register Now!

Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Leesburg Presbyterian Church from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, join the Evangelism Committee for a special workshop with Ray Jones returning from the Office of Evangelism and Church Growth in Louisville.  This workshop will focus on the newly revised Engage Resource.  Topics to be addressed include Engage the Gospel, Engage Discipleship, Engage Mission, How to Use the Engage Resource, Walking Through a Gathering, and Next Steps.  There is no registration fee.  Lunch will be provided as will copies of the new Engage resource for each participant.  To register, please call or email the Presbytery Office with the number attending from your congregation – office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.  SHENANGO ENGAGE WORKSHOP 2 fLYER – 2

News from the Churches

Prayers:

• Connie Chalfant’s (wife of Phil, 1st Sharpsville) father died a few weeks ago.
• Charlie Crane’s (Irwin and Jackson Center) mother died last Friday.

Rathburn Hall Opens at Grove City College

Rathburn Hall, the new center for Christian ministries, has opened on the Grove City College campus.  Chaplain, Stan Keehlwetter, invites congregations to utilize this facility for session retreats and other activities.  Catering services are available.  Contact Stan at 724-458-2142 or fskeehlwetter@gcc.edu or Chapel Secretary Donna Cales at 724-458-2143 or djcales@gcc.edu.

ENGAGE Workshop Coming Soon – Register Now!

Saturday, October 6, 2012 at Leesburg Presbyterian Church from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, join the Evangelism Committee for a special workshop with Ray Jones returning from the Office of Evangelism and Church Growth in Louisville.  This workshop will focus on the newly revised Engage Resource.  Topics to be addressed include Engage the Gospel, Engage Discipleship, Engage Mission, How to Use the Engage Resource, Walking Through a Gathering, and Next Steps.  There is no registration fee.  Lunch will be provided as will copies of the new Engage resource for each participant.  To register, please call or email the Presbytery Office with the number attending from your congregation – office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.  SHENANGO ENGAGE WORKSHOP 2 fLYER