Office

Prayers

– Lori Cotten’s (1st Sharpsville) father is a patient at Sharon Regional. in addition,  Lori’s mother-in-law passed away earlier this week.  Her calling hours are on Saturday at the Thompson-Miller Funeral Home in Butler.

GA Statistics Deadline Coming Soon

The deadline for entering your GA Annual report is Wednesday, February 23rd.  The closer you get to that deadline, the slower the system will be and the longer it will take to complete your report.

Presbytery forms were due Monday…please send in your information ASAP.  This is especially important for the necrology report, as those names have to be compiled into a report to be read at the February Presbytery meeting.

Did You Miss the Tax Tips Webinar?

Visit the Tax Resource Center on http://www.pensions.org for access to the recorded webinar.  The replay is available in two formats: an audiovisual presentation and an audio-only MP3 file.  Included in this webinar are recent tax law changes that affect ministers and churches, expenses that are deductible and those that are not, and common clergy housing allowance issues.  Also available in mid-February is the Tax Guide for Minister & Churches, which includes end-of-2010 tax code changes.

News from the Churches

Winter Weekend for Youth Groups

Looking for a way to end the winter blues, join us at Seneca Hills for this year’s Winter Weekend “Faithbook”.  The weekend features speaker Jeremy Coyer along with faith building workshops, games and fellowship.  If you have not been to Winter Weekend with your youth group, check out our Facebook page to see what you are missing.  It is a great opportunity to build relationships and enjoy fellowship between our teenagers.  If you have any questions, please contact Jason Schepp at 724-866-9213 or jason_schepp@hotmail.com.  The retreat is for students grades 7-12 and is held February 25-27.  The cost per students is $85.  For forms and more information, visit http://www.cemidatlantic.org/west-pa/2011_Winter_Weekend.html or on Facebook at “Winter Weekend”.

Help North Liberty Celebrate Jerry Mahaffey’s Ministry

As many of you know, Jerry has announced his retirement after 38 years and 8 months of ministry at North Liberty, effective February 28, 2011.  North Liberty is planning a celebration dinner for Saturday, February 26 at 5 PM at the Legacy, Rt. 58, Grove City.  ($15 adults, $7 children, under age 2 are FREE).  They are also compiling a scrapbook of memories for the Mahaffeys, and you are invited to contribute a page, card, or photo.  You can drop your contribution off at the Presbytery Office by February 14th.  For more information on the celebration, please see the full letter on the Presbytery’s News page.

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

Director of Youth Ministry Wanted

Director of Youth Ministry – First Church – Sharon, 20 hours/week, flexible hours, current active program with generous resources and volunteers, and generous salary package.  Experience preferred, but not required.  Inquiries should be high energy self-starters, with mature faith and joy in relationships with teenagers.  Will be part of a supporting church staff.  Contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink for more information (724-981-2211, ext. 2, or pastor@1stpcs.org).

A Legal Defense Fund

is being set up for Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Castle.  One of their buildings was suddenly and without explanation assessed and taxed during 2010.  They appealed and were turned down, and now have to employ a lawyer and go to the Court of Common Pleas.  Apparently any church with a separate Fellowship building could be vulnerable.  Interested parties and persons are invited to donate to Neshannock’s “Defense Fund”.  The parameters are that all funds will be exclusively used for legal fees, and any funds over their expenses will be returned to the Presbytery’s General Missions.  Donations can be mailed to the church at 154 Fairground Road, New Castle, PA  16101.

FREE! Looking for a good home for some special books

(1) full set of the Biblical Illustrator, 23 volumes, the most complete commentary of the Bible from hundreds of the greatest scholars (about $150 on Amazon).  (2) 8 Volumes of Kittel’s Theo. Dict. of the NT ALSO FREE (cost over $500 on Amazon), other assorted theo. books available as well.  Call and make arrangements: 724-714-1854.

Free to a Good Home

Third Presbyterian Church has a heavy duty rolling grand piano dolly for any church needing one.  The dolly is adjustable for any size grand piano.   Remember…first come first served…and the best part is that its FREE.  Call Third Presbyterian Church at 724-658-6683 for information.

Cana’s Corner Presents Terry Leonard in Concert

On February 8, 2011 from 7-9 PM Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse (Bethlehem Presbyterian Church) is proud to present Terry Leonard, local Christian pop/folk singer, in concert.  Opening for Terry will be “Straight from the Heart”.

 

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

January 25- 9:00 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office
February 1- 9:30 AM Council, Leesburg

Prayers

– Baby Anthony (son of Anthony and Christen Kladitis, youth director at Northminster, New Castle) passed away late last week.  Please continue to keep this family in your prayers.

– Rev. Ken Weber (Honorably Retired) has passed away.  Calling hours will be from 3-6 PM on Friday, and at 10 AM on Saturday at Smith’s Funeral Home in New Wilmington.  The funeral service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday at Smith’s.

The IRS Mileage Rate for 2011 is 51 cents per mile.

A Steeler Is Coming to New Wilmington

The Office of the Chaplain and Church Relations in cooperation with the Campus Chapter of FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) is bringing Pittsburgh Steelers’ Punter Daniel Sepulveda to the Westminster College Campus to speak to students on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at 8:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  This event is FREE and open to the public.

Protecting Our Children Seminar

A unique and helpful seminar, sponsored by the Synod of the Trinity, will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2011 in State College, PA.  It will contain information on child protection laws, reporting of incidents and a general sharing of knowledge in order to help keep our children as safe as possible.  A brochure with more information is available on the “News” page of the Presbytery website.

News from the Churches

Winter Weekend for Youth Groups

Looking for a way to end the winter blues, join us at Seneca Hills for this year’s Winter Weekend “Faithbook”.  The weekend features speaker Jeremy Coyer along with faith building workshops, games and fellowship.  If you have not been to Winter Weekend with your youth group, check out our Facebook page to see what you are missing.  It is a great opportunity to build relationships and enjoy fellowship between our teenagers.  If you have any questions, please contact Jason Schepp at 724-866-9213 or jason_schepp@hotmail.com.  The retreat is for students grades 7-12 and is held February 25-27.  The cost per students is $85.  For forms and more information, visit http://www.cemidatlantic.org/west-pa/2011_Winter_Weekend.html or on Facebook at “Winter Weekend”.

Help North Liberty Celebrate Jerry Mahaffey’s Ministry

As many of you know, Jerry has announced his retirement after 38 years and 8 months of ministry at North Liberty, effective February 28, 2011.  North Liberty is planning a celebration dinner for Saturday, February 26 at 5 PM at the Legacy, Rt. 58, Grove City.  ($15 adults, $7 children, under age 2 are FREE).  They are also compiling a scrapbook of memories for the Mahaffeys, and you are invited to contribute a page, card, or photo.  You can drop your contribution off at the Presbytery Office by February 14th.  For more information on the celebration, please see the full letter on the Presbytery’s News page.

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

Director of Youth Ministry Wanted

Director of Youth Ministry – First Church – Sharon, 20 hours/week, flexible hours, current active program with generous resources and volunteers, and generous salary package.  Experience preferred, but not required.  Inquiries should be high energy self-starters, with mature faith and joy in relationships with teenagers.  Will be part of a supporting church staff.  Contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink for more information (724-981-2211, ext. 2, or pastor@1stpcs.org).

A Legal Defense Fund

is being set up for Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Castle.  One of their buildings was suddenly and without explanation assessed and taxed during 2010.  They appealed and were turned down, and now have to employ a lawyer and go to the Court of Common Pleas.  Apparently any church with a separate Fellowship building could be vulnerable.  Interested parties and persons are invited to donate to Neshannock’s “Defense Fund”.  The parameters are that all funds will be exclusively used for legal fees, and any funds over their expenses will be returned to the Presbytery’s General Missions.  Donations can be mailed to the church at 154 Fairground Road, New Castle, PA  16101.

FREE! Looking for a good home for some special books

(1) full set of the Biblical Illustrator, 23 volumes, the most complete commentary of the Bible from hundreds of the greatest scholars (about $150 on Amazon).  (2) 8 Volumes of Kittel’s Theo. Dict. of the NT ALSO FREE (cost over $500 on Amazon), other assorted theo. books available as well.  Call and make arrangements: 724-714-1854.

Free to a Good Home

Third Presbyterian Church has a heavy duty rolling grand piano dolly for any church needing one.  The dolly is adjustable for any size grand piano.   Remember…first come first served…and the best part is that its FREE.  Call Third Presbyterian Church at 724-658-6683 for information.

 

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

January 18- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock NW
January 21- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office
January 25- 9:00 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office

Continued Prayers for Baby Anthony

The results of the testing last Friday showed that Baby Anthony (son of Anthony and Christen Kladits, youth director at Northminster) had no brain activity.  He was removed from life support on Saturday, and was moved to the hospice floor last evening.  He continues to breath on his own and is the talk of the hospital.  His parents are beyond exhausted and are getting very little rest.  Please continue to keep this family in your prayers.

Important!! Watch for this Form from the Pennsylvania Department of State

The Pennsylvania Department of State is requesting a Decennial Report on the continuing use of the corporate name of each of our churches by December 31, 2011.  The state is charging a $70.00 fee for the filing.  Our Synod of the Trinity is working on a group response that will save the fee and the work of complying.  Do not complete this form at this time. Further information will be coming from the Synod.

The IRS Mileage Rate for 2011 is 51 cents per mile.

A Steeler Is Coming to New Wilmington

The Office of the Chaplain and Church Relations in cooperation with the Campus Chapter of FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) is bringing Pittsburgh Steelers’ Punter Daniel Sepulveda to the Westminster College Campus to speak to students on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at 8:00 PM in Wallace Memorial Chapel.  This event is FREE and open to the public.

Reversing the Decline Workshop Follow-Up

The Reversing the Decline workshop with Scott Sunquist was well attended on November 6.  The follow-up gathering will take place on Saturday morning, February 26, 2011 at East Main Church, Grove City.

Protecting Our Children Seminar

A unique and helpful seminar, sponsored by the Synod of the Trinity, will be held on Wednesday, March 23, 2011 in State College, PA.  It will contain information on child protection laws, reporting of incidents and a general sharing of knowledge in order to help keep our children as safe as possible.  A brochure with more information is available on the “News” page of the Presbytery website.

News from the Churches

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse at Bethlehem Presbyterian

Cana’s Corner presents an evening of Christian music with Randy Veccia from Campus Crusade, opening music by Carol Scholl, Sharpsville Presbyterian Church, and introducing The Pneumanistas – Cana Corner’s Praise Team.  Event will be held on January 25, 2011 from 7-9 PM at Bethlehem Presbyterian Church, 710 Carnegie St., Sharon, PA.  For more information call Pastor Robbie Arnold at 724-983-0194 or Robyn Ruth at 724-342-7304.

Director of Youth Ministry Wanted

Director of Youth Ministry – First Church – Sharon, 20 hours/week, flexible hours, current active program with generous resources and volunteers, and generous salary package.  Experience preferred, but not required.  Inquiries should be high energy self-starters, with mature faith and joy in relationships with teenagers.  Will be part of a supporting church staff.  Contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink for more information (724-981-2211, ext. 2, or pastor@1stpcs.org).

Video Wanted

Do any of your churches have the Beth Moore DVD “Stepping Up”, and would you be willing to lend it to Bethany Presbyterian Church?  Please contact Carol Mielke at 724-535-8845 if you can help.

 

Baby Anthony-son of Anthony Kladitis (Youth/young adult pastor at Northminster) & wife Christen.  Baby was born Monday without a heartbeat, revived and sent down to Pittsburgh.  They are not sure if or how much brain damage the baby may have.  Anthony & Christen have been down in Pittsburgh all week with the baby.  They will be doing some tests over the next 24 hours that will be crucial in determining if Baby Anthony has any brain damage.  Please pray for this family!!!

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

January 13- 12:00 PM MCS Committee, New Wilmington
1:30 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington
1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office
3:30 PM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
7:00 PM Millenium Team, Presbytery Office
January 15- 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM LeaderFest, Westminster College
January 17- OFFICE CLOSED
January 18- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock NW
January 21- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry, Presbytery Office

Prayer for the Sudan

Please continue to pray for the vote in the Sudan which lasts all week.  Click here for pictures.  http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2011/01/a_historic_vote_in_sudan.html

Joys

Don and Doris Stanley (Jamestown) welcomed their first grandchild, Ava Joy, last Tuesday.

LEADERFEST is Saturday!

Registrations are still being accepted, and you can register at the door at 8:30 AM.  Join the almost 250 who have already registered to hear featured keynote speaker, Dr. Kenneth Bailey speak on “Conflict, Suffering & Love: Highlights from First Corinthians for the Church Today” beginning at 9:00 AM.  Cost is $15 per person, which includes lunch.

LeaderFest Payments

Please make sure that your check is made payable to “Shenango Presbytery” when paying for your LeaderFest registrations. We have received multiple checks made payable to Autumn…all of which will have to be returned to the senders to be corrected.

Important!! Watch for this Form from the Pennsylvania Department of State

The Pennsylvania Department of State is requesting a Decennial Report on the continuing use of the corporate name of each of our churches by December 31, 2011.  The state is charging a $70.00 fee for the filing.  Our Synod of the Trinity is working on a group response that will save the fee and the work of complying.  Do not complete this form at this time. Further information will be coming from the Synod.

News from the Churches

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse at Bethlehem Presbyterian

Cana’s Corner presents an evening of Christian music with Randy Veccia from Campus Crusade, opening music by Carol Scholl, Sharpsville Presbyterian Church, and introducing The Pneumanistas – Cana Corner’s Praise Team.  Event will be held on January 25, 2011 from 7-9 PM at Bethlehem Presbyterian Church, 710 Carnegie St., Sharon, PA.  For more information call Pastor Robbie Arnold at 724-983-0194 or Robyn Ruth at 724-342-7304.

Cana’s Corner Cofffeehouse Looking for Talented Performers

If you have a gospel message to share in song, please consider Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse, 710 Carnegie Avenue, Sharon.  The coffeehouse will be open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month.  Call Pastor Robbie Arnold at 724-983-0194 or Robyn Ruth at 724-342-7304 for more information.

Director of Youth Ministry Wanted

Director of Youth Ministry – First Church – Sharon, 20 hours/week, flexible hours, current active program with generous resources and volunteers, and generous salary package.  Experience preferred, but not required.  Inquiries should be high energy self-starters, with mature faith and joy in relationships with teenagers.  Will be part of a supporting church staff.  Contact Rev. Dr. Glenn Hink for more information (724-981-2211, ext. 2, or pastor@1stpcs.org).

Video Wanted

Do any of your churches have the Beth Moore DVD “Stepping Up”, and would you be willing to lend it to Bethany Presbyterian Church?  Please contact Carol Mielke at 724-535-8845 if you can help.

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

January 7-8- PMC Cluster Event, Westminster College

Critical Week of Prayer for the Sudan

Please pray all week for the Sudan and especially at worship this Sunday, January 9.  As we gather for worship in Shenango Presbytery this Sunday, the people of the south Sudan will just be completing a day of voting on the future of the south Sudan.  Please pray especially for a peaceful response to the vote.

Sudan Prayer Event

Join Shenango Presbytery for a special prayer service for the Sudan this Thursday, January 6th at 7:00 PM at Northminster Presbyterian Church.

Annual Report Forms

We’ve received a few calls and emails in the last week about Annual Report forms that were never received.  Please note that the usual forms were NOT mailed this year.  Everything is available online.  The GA form can be reached accessed at http://ogasys2.pcusa.org using the username and password that was mailed to each Clerk of Session at the beginning of December.  Presbytery forms can be accessed at http://www.shenango.org/Publications/index.htm.  If you cannot complete your forms online, or if you have questions, please contact Stated Clerk Rev. Jerry Mahaffey at 724-794-4383 or jerrymahaffey@zoominternet.net.

LEADERFEST ~ January 15^th @ Westminster College

Early Bird Deadline for Registration is January 10^th – register by this date and the cost is only $10

Training for Clerks of Session

Join Reverend Amy Na, Assistant Clerk of Shenango Presbytery as she discusses the “P” word – POLITY!  Learn about being a decent and orderly Presbyterian clerk!  J  Information available for clerks filing annual reports as well.

What Do We Cut?

In these difficult financial times, where does a church make cuts, what do we do?  How do we remain faithful in the face of declining income and attendance?  Join Dave Dawson, Executive Presbyter of the Shenango Presbytery for this important conversation.

Reformed Theology:  A Quick Primer

Am I reformed?  Presbyterian?  Christian?  If you are confused by some of the church “lingo”,  join Ralph Hawkins, senior pastor of New Wilmington Presbyterian Church as he reviews it all with a 60 minute primer on the reformed faith.

LeaderFest Payments

Please make sure that your check is made payable to “Shenango Presbytery” when paying for your LeaderFest registrations. We have received multiple checks made payable to Autumn…all of which will have to be returned to the senders to be corrected.

Great Themes in Paul’s Letter to the Romans

…a broadcast program from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary coming to Westminster College Wednesday evenings, January 12, 19, 26 and February 2.  The program will run from 7:00 – 8:30 PM in Old Main 210.  There is NO CHARGE for Westminster students, faculty, staff, administration or ministers and members of any Presbyterian Church in Shenango Presbytery.  Registration deadline is January 5, 2011.  We will be posting more information on the Presbytery website later this week.

Ingrid Reneau’s Return to Africa

Ingrid returns to Nairobi, Kenya on January 5.  From there she will follow the Referendum vote in south Sudan on January 9 and continue her educational work as conditions in the south allow.  Click here for her Christmas letter.

Important!! Watch for this Form from the Pennsylvania Department of State

The Pennsylvania Department of State is requesting a Decennial Report on the continuing use of the corporate name of each of our churches by December 31, 2011.  The state is charging a $70.00 fee for the filing.  Our Synod of the Trinity is working on a group response that will save the fee and the work of complying.  Do not complete this form at this time. Further information will be coming from the Synod.

News from the Churches

Women’s Prison Ministry in Mercer

Dotty Mariner, a member at the Coolspring Church, is an active leader of the ministry at the women’s county jail facility near Mercer.  She has shared this compelling story with her congregation and others.  Your congregation should hear from Dotty.  You can reach her at marinersanchor@zoominternet.net or 724-475-4100.

Divorce Care

It takes a long time and a lot of work to heal the pain that comes with the breakup of a marriage.  Divorce Care is a special weekly seminar and support group that provides a place to heal.  If you know someone who has or is going through this difficult process please invite them to attend the Divorce Care program at Bethany Church which will be held on Monday evenings, January 12- April 4, 2011.  To register or for more information, please call Bethany’s office at 724-662-4340.

First Presbyterian Church of Sharon Presents The Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival on Sunday, January 9, 2011 at 4:00 PM

Join First, Sharon for an afternoon complete with beautiful music, a story filled with wonder, and giving glory to God.  Presented as a gift to the community.

Rebuilding Mission Trip to New Orleans, LA, February 12-20, 2011

Join the Mt. Jackson Presbyterian Church and Friends as they travel south to join the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans.  The cost is approximately $275 per person, if you are riding in the rental vans.  Please RSVP by January 9 to Bill Gwin, 724-667-8321 wlgwin@att.net, Miriam Gwin, 724-667-8324, or Tom Kaufman, 724-651-4323tek114@zoominternet.net.

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

Bethlehem Presbyterian Church Opens Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse

Come to the grand opening of Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse January 11th, 7:00 – 9:00 PM, located at 710 Carnegie Street, Sharon.  The featured performer will be David Hamilton of Church Street Blues.  Special guest performers include David Buchanan and Robyn Ruth.  Enjoy some quality music while having coffee.  The coffeehouse will be open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month with various guest performers.  For more information call Pastor Robbie Arnold at 724-983-0194 or Robyn Ruth at 724-342-7304.

Cana’s Corner Cofffeehouse Looking for Talented Performers

If you have a gospel message to share in song, please consider Cana’s Corner Coffeehouse, 710 Carnegie Avenue, Sharon.  The coffeehouse will be open on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month.  Call Pastor Robbie Arnold at 724-983-0194 or Robyn Ruth at 724-342-7304 for more information.

 

Office Closed

Just a reminder that the Presbytery Office will be closed from December 24th through January 3rd.  Rev. Dawson will be checking his email and voicemail regularly throughout the week, but if an emergency arises you may call his cell phone at 724-730-1934.

Divorce Care

It takes a long time and a lot of work to heal the pain that comes with the break-up of a marriage.  Divorce Care is a special weekly seminar and support group that provides a place to heal.  If you know someone who has or is going through this difficult process, please invite them to attend the Divorce Care program at Bethany Church which will be held on Monday evenings, January 12-April 4, 2011.  To register or for more information, please call Bethany’s office at 724-662-4340.

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

December 24-January 3- OFFICE CLOSED
Note: Presbytery Staff will be using the remainder of their vacation days the week after Christmas, so the office will be closed until after the New Year’s holiday.  Rev. Dawson will be checking his email and voicemail regularly, if you need to leave a message for him.

Mission Yearbooks Are In

Mission Yearbooks arrived several weeks ago, and we still have reserved copies for several churches waiting to be picked up (Faith, Hillside, Northminster, Shenango and Bethany).  We also have extra copies available for purchase at $9.00 each.

LEADERFEST 2011…Training for Church Officers and Leaders
January 15^th 8:30am – 2pm ~ Campus of Westminster College

Overcoming Personal/Spiritual Obstacles
Why do we stumble?  Why do we not do well, personally and spiritually at times?  Join Steve Plyler, Elder, Clen-Moore Church for this core seminar on conflict, as he helps you develop good Biblical strategies for overcoming the obstacles life throws our way.   (afternoon session only)

Does ‘Loving Like Jesus’ Really Work?
Join Reverend Joicy Becker-Richards, Director of Educational Media at Princeton Theological Seminary and Pastor as she helps us find practical ways to love our enemies and make peace in broken relationships.  (afternoon session only)

Seeking to be Faithful
A lump in your throat, sweaty palms, a rush of adrenaline ~ think you are snowboarding?!?!  Even though it may feel like a downhill slope, you are actually in conflict with a fellow brother or sister!  Join Dr. Angel De La Cruz, pastor of Word Centered Fellowship, as shows how conflict benefits Christian maturity and, if handled properly, bears witness of God’s love. (afternoon session only)

General Assembly:  Unity and Love Through Changing Times
Learn about the basics of last summer’s General Assembly and how to approach people within our church of differing views.  Presentation by Abby Pherson, Shenango Presbytery Young Adult Advisory Delegate to the 219^th General Assembly.  (afternoon session only)

Great Themes in Paul’s Letter to the Romans

…a broadcast program from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary coming to Westminster College Wednesday evenings, January 12, 19, 26 and February 2.  The program will run from 7:00 – 8:30 PM in Old Main 210.  There is NO CHARGE for Westminster students, faculty, staff, administration or ministers and members of any Presbyterian Church in Shenango Presbytery.  Registration deadline is January 5, 2011.  We will be posting more information on the Presbytery website later this week.

12 From Shenango Presbytery Attend Sudan Mission Network

The Sudan Mission Network was started 15 years ago by presbyteries with partnerships in the Sudan.  Each December the Network meets, most recently in Louisville.  The 12 from Shenango can tell you about the experience.  Contact Jim Leuenberger, team leader, for information.  Or see this story on Presbyterian News Service http://www.pcusa.org/news/2010/12/15/church-critical-sudans-future-mission-network-told/.

Special Need in the South Sudan

It is hard to imagine how limited medical services are in the south Sudan.  Click here for an important story that needs support from individuals and churches.

Ingrid Reneau’s Return to Africa

Ingrid returns to Nairobi, Kenya on January 5.  From there she will follow the Referendum vote in south Sudan on January 9 and continue her educational work as conditions in the south allow.  Click here for her Christmas letter.

GCC’s WSAJ to Present Fourth Annual “Christmas ‘Mid the Pines” broadcast

Grove City College’s radio station WSAJ 91.1 FM will air this special holiday broadcast on December 24th starting at 5 PM.  It will showcase nearly 6 hours of live Christmas music recordings performed by campus ensembles and choirs during the holiday season.

News from the Churches

Mission Trip Information Requested

Has your church taken a mission trip to Appalachia?  Rev. Chris Weichman would like to hear from you…specifically about what organizations you have worked with and what your experience has been with them has been like.  You can contact him at cweichman@verizon.net or 724-654-6657.

First Presbyterian Church of Sharon Presents The Boar’s Head & Yule Log Festival on Sunday, January 9, 2011 at 4:00 PM

Join First, Sharon for an afternoon complete with beautiful music, a story filled with wonder, and giving glory to God.  Presented as a gift to the community.

Rebuilding Mission Trip to New Orleans, LA, February 12-20, 2011

Join the Mt. Jackson Presbyterian Church and Friends as they travel south to join the rebuilding efforts in New Orleans.  The cost is approximately $275 per person, if you are riding in the rental vans.  Please RSVP by January 9 to Bill Gwin, 724-667-8321 wlgwin@att.net, Miriam Gwin, 724-667-8324, or Tom Kaufman, 724-651-4323 tek114@zoominternet.net.

Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries Wanted

New Bedford Church is seeking candidates for a full time Director of Children’s and Youth Ministries.  For more information or to receive a position description, contact New Bedford Church at 724-964-8055 or newbedfordchurch@verizon.net.

News from the Presbytery Office

This Week:

December 15- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, 1st New Castle

Mission Yearbooks Are In

Mission Yearbooks arrived a few weeks ago, and we still have reserved copies for several churches waiting to be picked up (Faith, Hillside, Northminster, Shenango and Bethany).  We also have extra copies available for purchase at $9.00 each.

LeaderFest ~ January 15^th from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm at Westminster College.  Two more workshops to look forward to at LeaderFest

“Strategies for Difficult Days with Young Children” or “How to be the Adult when Everyone Else is Such a Child!”

Join Katie Longbrake mother and master’s prepared counselor as she shows you positive and healthy responses to conflict issues with young children.  This session will benefit parents, grandparents and Sunday school leaders!

“Speaking of Jesus”

Pastor Jim Latta from Calvin Presbyterian Church will help us with practical ideas on how to share our faith with others.

A bookstore will be available in the lobby of Orr Auditorium with selections thoughtfully chosen by workshop leaders and the Christian Education committee.  These books will help you go deeper with the workshop topics.  As always, the Book of Order and the Book of Confession will be available for purchase.  Cash, credit cards and checks will be accepted.

Interim Executive Director Desired for Camping Association

Needed: A person of strong Christian convictions willing to provide executive leadership for the Camping Association of the Presbyteries of Northwestern Pennsylvania (CAPNWP).  The person will need to have skills in business leadership, decision making, corporate communication/marketing, financial and strategic planning, and supervisory experience.  The incumbent must possess a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, master’s preferred.  This is a temporary salaried position (30 hour/week minimum) not to exceed six months, with possible consideration for a permanent position.  Resume with cover letter should be emailed to david.jones@capnwp.org.

Great Themes in Paul’s Letter to the Romans

…a broadcast program from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary coming to Westminster College Wednesday evenings, January 12, 19, 26 and February 2.  The program will run from 7:00 – 8:30 PM in Old Main 210.  There is NO CHARGE for Westminster students, faculty, staff, administration or members of any Presbyterian Church in Shenango Presbytery.  Registration deadline is January 5, 2011.  We will be posting more information on the Presbytery website later this week.

GCC’s WSAJ to Present Fourth Annual “Christmas ‘Mid the Pines” broadcast

Grove City College’s radio station WSAJ 91.1 FM will air this special holiday broadcast on December 24th starting at 5 PM.  It will showcase nearly 6 hours of live Christmas music recordings performed by campus ensembles and choirs during the holiday season.

News from the Churches

Mission Trip Information Requested

Has your church taken a mission trip to Appalachia?  Rev. Chris Weichman would like to hear from you…specifically about what organizations you have worked with and what your experience has been with them has been like.  You can contact him at cweichman@verizon.net or 724-654-6657.

The Presbytery Office is closed again today due to the weather and road conditions.

Prayers
Brice and Sungmin Rogers are serving in Africa, supported by several of our churches. Sungmin’s father died in Korea yesterday. Please remember them in your prayers.