Rev. John Peterson – CORRECTION

Rev. John Peterson, a resident of New Wilmington, died last Friday after a season of health issues.  Although John was a long-time minister member and Stated Clerk of Beaver-Butler Presbytery to our south, in retirement he moved to New Wilmington and was active in the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  Calling hours are Friday, February 24^th from 4-6 PM at the Smith Funeral Home in New Wilmington.  The Funeral Worship service will be on Saturday, February 25th at 2:00 PM at Center Presbyterian Church in Slippery Rock.

Rev. John Peterson

Rev. John Peterson, a resident of New Wilmington, died last Friday after a season of health issues.  Although John was a long-time minister member and Stated Clerk of Beaver-Butler Presbytery to our south, in retirement he moved to New Wilmington and was active in the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  Calling hours are Friday, February 17^th from 4-6 PM at the Smith Funeral Home in New Wilmington.  The Funeral Worship service will be on Saturday at 2:00 PM at Center Presbyterian Church in Slippery Rock.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be leading officer training at Wurtemburg church in Ellwood City (Feb 12) and visiting the Clearfield PA church in Kiskiminetas presbytery (Feb 19) to interview former participants in the Dominican Republic mission partnership.  He will be attending the national Fellowship Community gathering in Lakeland, Florida (Feb 21-23).  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

– The following Teaching Elders have been transferred to other presbyteries: TE Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) to Presbytery of Eastern Iowa; TE Steven Allen (MAL) to Presbytery of Greater Atlanta; TE Steven Stelle (formerly Mission Co-Worker) to Eastminster Presbytery; TE Don Stanley (HR) to Transylvania Presbytery

– RE Carolyn Moss (New Wilmington), a candidate for TE ordination, will be supplying pastoral ministry to the Rich Hill church under the supervision of our CPM (Committee on Preparation for Ministry)

–  TE Jim Latta (MAL) is serving as a temporary supply at Trinity church in Mercer while TE Bill Crooks is on medical leave. A PNC is active at Trinity as Rev. Crooks will retire in June.

– TE Rick Vogeley (HR) has been hired as Interim Pastor at First New Castle.

(TE = Teaching Elder; RE = Ruling Elder; CRE = Commissioned Ruling Elder; MAL = Member at Large; HR = Honorably Retired; PNC = Pastor Nominating Committee)

 

South Sudan Visit Highlighted

Recently the Synod of the Trinity produced a short video highlighting the testimony of Rev. Sean Brubaker (Calvin, Ellwood City) who shares about the impact two of our South Sudanese partners had on some neighborhood boys last summer during one of our South Sudan visitations.  Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D91tSbFjgi0

 

Shenango Presbytery College Scholarship

The application is online for the Shenango Presbytery College Scholarship open to students in our communities attending Grove City and Westminster Colleges…https://form.jotform.com/70366300834148.  You can also download a PDF of the form shenango-presbytery-scholarship-application-2017.  The deadline to submit applications has been moved up to March 31, 2017 in order to allow the committee overseeing the scholarship time to meet with potential recipients before the end of the spring semester.

 

Annual Report Deadline UPDATED!  

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 February 16, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

 

You’re Invited!

Beaver-Butler Presbytery invites you to their annual Leadership and Administrative Event on March 19^th from 2-5 PM at the Cranberry Community Presbyterian Church in Cranberry Township, PA. Click here for a registration brochure and list of workshops.

 

Multimedia in Worship

You’re invited on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 from 5:30 – 8:30 PM to Westminster College (Witherspoon Maple Room on the third floor of McKelvey Campus Center) for a Multimedia in Worship Event with Presbyterian Media Mission.  pmm-con-ed-flyer  Many of you missed this cancelled workshop at LeaderFest, but this event will provide you with an even better chance to dive deep into the topic, ask lots of questions, and get some great tips.  Cost is $8 per person ($5/person if 5 or more come from the same church) and includes dinner!  Please RSVP to Diane at gabriedl@westminster.edu by March 1.  This event is being hosted by the Office of Faith and Spirituality at Westminster College, and supported by the Christian Education Committee of Shenango Presbytery.

 

Suicidal Depression Workshop

Licensed Clinical Social Worker and friend of our presbytery Michelle Snyder will be leading a one-day seminar for pastors and and counselors on ministering to suicidal depression in Butler, PA, on May 3.  Learn more and register here.

 

Complete Barclay Commentaries

Charlie and Mary Crane (Jackson Center) have a complete set of William Barclay Bible commentaries that need a good home in a church, theological, or personal library.  If you are interested, let the presbytery office know at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org

 

News From the Churches

Seeking a Secretary

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church is seeking a secretary 32 hours/week.  Must be organized, experienced with Microsoft Word and Publisher, able to maintain church website, have good people skills and perform general secretarial duties.  Salary commensurate with experience.  Send resume to: pcweichman@gmail.com

 

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

 

Director of Children, Youth, and Young Adults

Faith Presbyterian Church in Hermitage is seeking a Director of Children, Youth, and Young Adults. ce-director-job-description-2017

New EARLIER Deadline for GA Reports

We’ve just received notification from the Stated Clerk’s Office of General Assembly that the deadline for entering statistical data is Thursday, February 16th, not Wednesday, February 22nd as previously reported.  It was noted in the email that 55% of Shenango Presbytery’s churches have completed their statistical reporting…and there are now only a few days left for the remaining churches to enter their data.  Note: If you have entered your data, but have not hit the “submit” button DON’T WORRY, the system will automatically submit your data at midnight on the 16th.

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

If you are not able to meet this new deadline, please contact the Presbytery Office this week!  There is a short window of approximately 10 days for the presbytery to submit your information…after that the system is closed for statistical data entry until next year.

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be leading officer training at Wurtemburg church in Ellwood City (Feb 12) and visiting the Clearfield PA church in Kiskiminetas presbytery (Feb 19) to interview former participants in the Dominican Republic mission partnership.  He will be attending the national Fellowship Community gathering in Lakeland, Florida (Feb 21-23).  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

– The following Teaching Elders have been transferred to other presbyteries: TE Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) to Presbytery of Eastern Iowa; TE Steven Allen (MAL) to Presbytery of Greater Atlanta; TE Steven Stelle (formerly Mission Co-Worker) to Eastminster Presbytery; TE Don Stanley (HR) to Transylvania Presbytery

– RE Carolyn Moss (New Wilmington), a candidate for TE ordination, will be supplying pastoral ministry to the Rich Hill church under the supervision of our CPM (Committee on Preparation for Ministry)

–  TE Jim Latta (MAL) is serving as a temporary supply at Trinity church in Mercer while TE Bill Crooks is on medical leave. A PNC is active at Trinity as Rev. Crooks will retire in June.

– TE Rick Vogeley (HR) has been hired as Interim Pastor at First New Castle.

(TE = Teaching Elder; RE = Ruling Elder; CRE = Commissioned Ruling Elder; MAL = Member at Large; HR = Honorably Retired; PNC = Pastor Nominating Committee)

 

South Sudan Visit Highlighted

Recently the Synod of the Trinity produced a short video highlighting the testimony of Rev. Sean Brubaker (Calvin, Ellwood City) who shares about the impact two of our South Sudanese partners had on some neighborhood boys last summer during one of our South Sudan visitations.  Check it out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D91tSbFjgi0

 

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  

The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 22, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

Arc Encounter Bus Trip – CANCELLED

The coach bus trip to see the Ark Replica in Williamsville, KY that was being planned for March 23-24 has been cancelled due to lack of interest.

 

You’re Invited!

Beaver-Butler Presbytery invites you to their annual Leadership and Administrative Event on March 19^th from 2-5 PM at the Cranberry Community Presbyterian Church in Cranberry Township, PA. Click here for a registration brochure and list of workshops.

 

News From the Churches

Seeking a Secretary

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church is seeking a secretary 32 hours/week.  Must be organized, experienced with Microsoft Word and Publisher, able to maintain church website, have good people skills and perform general secretarial duties.  Salary commensurate with experience.  Send resume to: pcweichman@gmail.com

 

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

 

This Week:
February 1- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
February 6- 2:00 PM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
February 7- 9:30 AM Council, First Presbyterian Church ECO, Greenville

 

 EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be leading officer training at Wurtemburg church in Ellwood City (Feb 12) and visiting the Clearfield PA church in Kiskiminetas presbytery (Feb 19) to interview former participants in the Dominican Republic mission partnership.  He will be attending the national Fellowship Community gathering in Lakeland, Florida (Feb 21-23).  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

– The following Teaching Elders have been transferred to other presbyteries: TE Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) to Presbytery of Eastern Iowa; TE Steven Allen (MAL) to Presbytery of Greater Atlanta; TE Steven Stelle (formerly Mission Co-Worker) to Eastminster Presbytery; TE Don Stanley (HR) to Transylvania Presbytery

– RE Carolyn Moss (New Wilmington), a candidate for TE ordination, will be supplying pastoral ministry to the Rich Hill church under the supervision of our CPM (Committee on Preparation for Ministry)

–  TE Jim Latta (MAL) is serving as a temporary supply at Trinity church in Mercer while TE Bill Crooks is on medical leave. A PNC is active at Trinity as Rev. Crooks will retire in June.

– TE Rick Vogeley (HR) has been hired as Interim Pastor at First New Castle.

(TE = Teaching Elder; RE = Ruling Elder; CRE = Commissioned Ruling Elder; MAL = Member at Large; HR = Honorably Retired; PNC = Pastor Nominating Committee)

 

Mackenzie Death

Dr. Charles S. MacKenzie, past president of Grove City College and honorably retired member of the presbytery, died last week at age 92.  Read more about Dr. MacKenzie’s intellectual legacy here.

 

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  

The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 22, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

Arc Encounter Bus Trip

Dotty Mariner is putting together a coach bus trip to see the Ark Replica in Williamsville, Ky. The dates are March 23-24, as an overnight trip. Cost depends on number staying in a room. A person staying as a double is $275.00 each, other prices available. Cost includes room, one lunch, one breakfast, a ticket to see the Arc and also a visit to The Creation Museum the next day. All reservations and money must be in to Dotty by February first. 724-475-4100 to contact her.  Please share this information in your bulletin so that it can reach anyone who might be interested.

 

News From the Churches

Seeking a Secretary

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church is seeking a secretary 32 hours/week.  Must be organized, experienced with Microsoft Word and Publisher, able to maintain church website, have good people skills and perform general secretarial duties.  Salary commensurate with experience.  Send resume to: pcweichman@gmail.com

 

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

 

This Week:
January 30- 11:00 AM Personnel Committee, Presbytery Office
January 31- 9:30 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office

 

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  

The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 22, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

Arc Encounter Bus Trip

Dotty Mariner is putting together a coach bus trip to see the Ark Replica in Williamsville, Ky. The dates are March 23-24, as an overnight trip. Cost depends on number staying in a room. A person staying as a double is $275.00 each, other prices available. Cost includes room, one lunch, one breakfast, a ticket to see the Arc and also a visit to The Creation Museum the next day. All reservations and money must be in to Dotty by February first. 724-475-4100 to contact her.  Please share this information in your bulletin so that it can reach anyone who might be interested.

 

Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is not just a course. It’s an experience. It’s a movement. 250,000 people have taken the class. Many from our Presbytery. It is now being taught in 46 countries in 7 languages and we can take it right here on the Grove City College campus.

Take a look at the Grove City Class page at www.perspectives.org. Look at the lesson descriptions and the instructor bios. (Each week a different expert.) You can even read the first lesson materials online. If you’re still not sure you want to commit to the 15 weeks, come to the orientation night Tuesday, January 17^th at 6:30 pm. Rev. Jen Haddox will share stories that show the hope of the Gospel in difficult places along with a brief orientation to the class.  Attend the first 2 classes Jan 24 and 31 and check it out before you decide. We encourage the public to come hear the first speakers, not because we want large classes, but because we are committed to sharing the experience we have found so useful.

It has changed the way we read the Bible. The emphasis is different. The stories aren’t just isolated moral teachings, they connect to one another and help us to see God’s big plan and that we each have an important part in it. The class will emphasize the importance of prayer. We will be exposed to great resources to enhance our prayer times and to help them be more God-centered and kingdom-oriented. In the history section we’ll see how God uses the good times and the bad times for His glory. The cultural section helps us to see how God loves all peoples and we can learn from one another and our differences. In the last section we’ll hear stories of how God is working in the world today and how we can use our talents and resources to be involved.

It’s guaranteed to take your mind off cold and snow and encourage you to spend more time growing your faith. Bring a group from your church or Invite a friend to come with you.

 

News From the Churches

 

Seeking a Secretary

Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church is seeking a secretary 32 hours/week.  Must be organized, experienced with Microsoft Word and Publisher, able to maintain church website, have good people skills and perform general secretarial duties.  Salary commensurate with experience.  Send resume to: pcweichman@gmail.com 

 

 

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

This Week:
January 19- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, presented a workshop for Ruling Elders at our annual LeaderFest event (Jan 14).  He chaired an Advisory Board meeting for World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary (Jan 7), welcoming Rev. Hunter Farrell as the new WMI director.  He is leading officer training for elders and deacons at First Presbyterian Church, Oil City (Jan 28). 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 Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) has accepted a call to First Presbyterian Church of Manchester, Iowa.

– TE Steve Stelle, having finished his term of missionary service in Ethiopia, is now serving as Interim Pastor of Champion Presbyterian Church, Ohio, in neighboring Eastminster presbytery.

– TE Don Stanley (Jamestown) was granted Honorable Retirement by the presbytery at our November stated meeting.

– An Administrative Commission has been appointed by the presbytery, at the request of the congregation, to steward the process of closing the Kennard congregation in Mercer County.

 

Sciuto Anniversary

Denise Sciuto, a member at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church and the chair of our presbytery’s Sudan Partnership Team, is celebrating a 10 year work anniversary this year.  Denise is an Associate Director with Frontier Fellowship, Presbyterian-rooted mission organization committed to sharing the good news of Jesus with unreached people groups around the world.  From the FF website  “Denise’s love for missions began as a student in her church’s youth group, which took yearly domestic service trips. She graduated from Grove City College with a degree in International Business, then spent the next 15 years working in customer service and sales for an international transportation company. God later combined her love for missions with her business experience in a mobilizing role with Frontier Fellowship. She’s committed to helping churches participate in making God’s love known to unreached people groups with a particular focus on supporting and encouraging our Sudanese partners involved in education and pastoral training in Darfur.”

 

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  

The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 22, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

Arc Encounter Bus Trip

Dotty Mariner is putting together a coach bus trip to see the Ark Replica  in Williamsville, Ky. The dates are March 23-24, as an overnight trip. Cost depends on number staying in a room. A person staying as a double is $275.00 each, other prices available. Cost includes room, one lunch, one breakfast, a ticket to see the Arc and also a visit to The Creation Museum the next day. All reservations and money must be in to Dotty by February first. 724-475-4100 to contact her.

 

Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is not just a course. It’s an experience. It’s a movement. 250,000 people have taken the class. Many from our Presbytery. It is now being taught in 46 countries in 7 languages and we can take it right here on the Grove City College campus.

Take a look at the Grove City Class page at www.perspectives.org. Look at the lesson descriptions and the instructor bios. (Each week a different expert.) You can even read the first lesson materials online. If you’re still not sure you want to commit to the 15 weeks, come to the orientation night Tuesday, January 17^th at 6:30 pm. Rev. Jen Haddox will share stories that show the hope of the Gospel in difficult places along with a brief orientation to the class.  Attend the first 2 classes Jan 24 and 31 and check it out before you decide. We encourage the public to come hear the first speakers, not because we want large classes, but because we are committed to sharing the experience we have found so useful.

It has changed the way we read the Bible. The emphasis is different. The stories aren’t just isolated moral teachings, they connect to one another and help us to see God’s big plan and that we each have an important part in it. The class will emphasize the importance of prayer. We will be exposed to great resources to enhance our prayer times and to help them be more God-centered and kingdom-oriented. In the history section we’ll see how God uses the good times and the bad times for His glory. The cultural section helps us to see how God loves all peoples and we can learn from one another and our differences. In the last section we’ll hear stories of how God is working in the world today and how we can use our talents and resources to be involved.

It’s guaranteed to take your mind off cold and snow and encourage you to spend more time growing your faith. Bring a group from your church or Invite a friend to come with you.

 

News From the Churches

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

 

You Can Still Attend LeaderFest

Online registration has closed, but you can still register at the door tomorrow morning to attend LeaderFest 2017. Download the Brochure to read about the keynote speaker and available workshops.  (Note: David Williamson’s workshop is FULL.)

 

Worship and Celebration of the Life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Please join several Ellwood City pastors on Monday, January 16th for this ecumenical worship service proclaiming God’s Word in celebration of the life and ministry of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Worship begins at 10:00 AM at Ellwood City First United Methodist Church (416 Crescent Avenue).  Light breakfast and lunch provided.

 

This Week:

January 13- 9:00 AM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office
11:30 AM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
January 14- 8:30 AM LeaderFest, Westminster College and New Wilmington PC
January 16- OFFICE CLOSED, Birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.
9:00 AM PW CT, Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare
January 17- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock PC

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be presenting a workshop for Ruling Elders at our annual LeaderFest event (Jan 14).  He is chairing an Advisory Board meeting for World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary (Jan 7), welcoming Rev. Hunter Farrell as the new WMI director.  He is leading officer training for elders and deacons at First Presbyterian Church, Oil City (Jan 28). 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 Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) has accepted a call to First Presbyterian Church of Manchester, Iowa.

– TE Steve Stelle, having finished his term of missionary service in Ethiopia, is now serving as Interim Pastor of Champion Presbyterian Church, Ohio, in neighboring Eastminster presbytery.

– TE Don Stanley (Jamestown) was granted Honorable Retirement by the presbytery at our November stated meeting.

– An Administrative Commission has been appointed by the presbytery, at the request of the congregation, to steward the process of closing the Kennard congregation in Mercer County.

 

2017 Standard Mileage Rates

Beginning on January 1, 2017, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car will be 53.5 cents per business mile driven.  The rate for medical or moving purposes will be 17 cents per mile driven, and the rate for the service of charitable organizations will be 14 cents per mile.  Read more on http://www.irs.gov.

 

Shenango Presbytery’s Annual LeaderFest
Saturday, January 14, 2017, 8:30 am-1:30 pm at Westminster College and New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  All leaders in the church are welcome to join us as we hear keynoter Byron Borger speak to us about “Seeking the Peace of the City (or Small Town): Living in Hope with God’s Heart for Western Pennsylvania”.  Click here for more information, a link to online registration, and to download this year’s brochure and bulletin insert.

 

It’s time for Annual Reports again!  

The GA online statistical program is located at http://oga.pcusa.org/stats.  Clerks will use the same “user name” and “password” as they have used the past few years.  Please note the the password should contain an “!” and is case-sensitive.  The deadline for entering your statistical information is February 22, 2017 at midnight.    If you have forgotten your user name and password, please call or email the Presbytery office. (Note: If you changed your password from what was assigned by the denomination, we will not have that new password.)  There is a “Frequently Asked Questions” page available to help with most common questions.

Presbytery annual reports are available on the “Resources” page of the Presbytery website.  They are downloadable as WORD and EXCEL files and the completed forms can either be mailed to the office or emailed to Autumn at office@shenango.org.  The deadline for completing these forms is January 31, 2017.  Several churches have not been able to complete their reports by the January deadline in the past, please note that in order for your deceased elders to be included in the special service at the February presbytery meeting, your Necrology form MUST be received at the office by February 10th!

 

Arc Encounter Bus Trip

Dotty Mariner is putting together a coach bus trip to see the Ark Replica  in Williamsville, Ky. The dates are March 23-24, as an overnight trip. Cost depends on number staying in a room. A person staying as a double is $275.00 each, other prices available. Cost includes room, one lunch, one breakfast, a ticket to see the Arc and also a visit to The Creation Museum the next day. All reservations and money must be in to Dotty by February first. 724-475-4100 to contact her.

 

Perspectives on the World Christian Movement is not just a course. It’s an experience. It’s a movement. 250,000 people have taken the class. Many from our Presbytery. It is now being taught in 46 countries in 7 languages and we can take it right here on the Grove City College campus.

Take a look at the Grove City Class page at www.perspectives.org. Look at the lesson descriptions and the instructor bios. (Each week a different expert.) You can even read the first lesson materials online. If you’re still not sure you want to commit to the 15 weeks, come to the orientation night Tuesday, January 17^th at 6:30 pm. Rev. Jen Haddox will share stories that show the hope of the Gospel in difficult places along with a brief orientation to the class.  Attend the first 2 classes Jan 24 and 31 and check it out before you decide. We encourage the public to come hear the first speakers, not because we want large classes, but because we are committed to sharing the experience we have found so useful.

It has changed the way we read the Bible. The emphasis is different. The stories aren’t just isolated moral teachings, they connect to one another and help us to see God’s big plan and that we each have an important part in it. The class will emphasize the importance of prayer. We will be exposed to great resources to enhance our prayer times and to help them be more God-centered and kingdom-oriented. In the history section we’ll see how God uses the good times and the bad times for His glory. The cultural section helps us to see how God loves all peoples and we can learn from one another and our differences. In the last section we’ll hear stories of how God is working in the world today and how we can use our talents and resources to be involved.

It’s guaranteed to take your mind off cold and snow and encourage you to spend more time growing your faith. Bring a group from your church or Invite a friend to come with you.

 

News From the Churches

GriefShare Program

No matter what the circumstances, grief recovery is a painful process.  A GriefShare seminar/support group is being hosted and sponsored by Calvin Church.  The program will be facilitated by Ginny Brest.  The first session is scheduled for Sunday, January 15 from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the church parlor.  The group will meet each Sunday afternoon for 13 weeks.  Participants are encouraged to complete the 13-week program if possible.  Calvin will cover the cost of the program because we understand how deeply grief and loss hurts people and families.  This is a place where many people have found they can begin to put their lives back together again.  The program is open to anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one to help them through the grief process.  If you, or someone you know, would benefit from this program, please contact Ginny Brest at 724-758-3838 or Calvin’s church office at 724-758-4258.

 

The Ninth Annual Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival will be held this coming Sunday, January 8, 2017, at 3:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, in Sharon.  This beautiful Epiphany celebration takes place in Medieval England, and the cast wears costumes depicting a Festival in a castle.  The music and costumes are wonderful, and the congregation is invited to sing along on several Christmas carols.  Following the Festival, there will be a “Meet and Greet the Cast” reception in Fellowship Hall.  There is no admission charge.  Bring your Advent/Christmas/Epiphany celebrations to a glorious conclusion by attending and participating in the Boar’s Head and Yule Log Festival on Sunday.