…a community of Presbyterian congregations in western Pennsylvania
There is a railroad crossing closed on 108/18 just south of Mahoningtown – about 500 feet before 18 goes south and 108 turns west. The road is closed!
In order to get to the Presbytery meeting tonight at Westfield Presbyterian Church you will need to take 422 or 224 west to 376 and then south to 108 in order to bypass the problem area.
News from the Presbytery Office
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. We also have extra copies available for purchase at $9.00 each.
Bob Dayton Ordained 35 Years
A reception will be held at the Mahoning Church from noon – 3 PM for Bob Dayton who was ordained on November 9, 1975. Please RSVP to Linda McNeill at 724-964-1316.
Please Pray for Sudan
The situation in the Sudan has been difficult, at best, for years. At this moment it is more critical than ever, especially with the January 9 vote on forming two countries! The Shenango Sudan Leadership Team has called for two special Prayer Meetings for the Sudan.
– Sunday, November 14 at 7 PM at the New Wilmington Church
– Friday, January 7 at 7 PM at Northminster Church (New Castle)
We will hear updates on the situation and pray together for the Sudan and our sisters and brothers in the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church. Please include prayers for the Sudan regularly in your church.
135 From 40 Churches Attend “Reversing the Decline”
The special evangelism event held at Clen-Moore Church last Saturday included more than 1355 participants from 40 churches. Dr. Scott Sunquist from Pittsburgh Seminary led this event which was enthusiastically received. Watch for follow-up plans.
Learn About the Belhar Confession
Dr. Joe Small (Director of the Theology, Worship and Educational Ministries, PC (USA)) will present a lecture on this confession at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary on Friday, December 10th, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM. The cost is $20. Register online: http://www.pts.edu/CE_Registration. If anyone is interested in carpooling, or if there’s enough interest riding a 13-passenger bus, contact Rev. Glenn Hink, 1stSharon (724-981-2211 ext. 2 or pastor@1stpcs.org). “Carpoolers” with Glenn will leave about 7 AM , and stop for lunch on the way home.
Memorial CD to Benefit david bailey’s Children
Please visit our NEWS page for information about an educational fund for the Bailey children.
Intensive Perspectives Course
Do you know of a pastor, ministry or business leader, or missionary who you long to see take the Perspectives on the World Christian Movement course, but cannot commit to the regular 15-week format due to their schedule? Well, here is a chance for them to take a full Perspectives class with other such leaders from around the country in a 1-week intensive format. http://www.perspectives.org/intensive. January 18-26, 2011 (register by Nov. 30) in Fayetteville, Arkansas (home of the Perspectives national office…the course and housing are at a beautiful retreat center).
Growing Into Tomorrow…Today – A Holistic Retirement Planning Education Seminar
December 7-8, 2010 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary…learn about steps you can take today to prepare for your best tomorrow. Registration with the Board of Pensions by November 12th is required, and seating is limited to the first 30 registrants. For more information, seehttp://www.pensions.org/growingintotomorrowtoday.
News from the Churches
Soup Supper at Oak Grove
The Soup is on at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church, 7152 Old Rt. 422, Portersville on Saturday, November 13th with Vegetable, Cream of Broccoli, and Cream of Potato, salad, dessert for only $7.00. Tickets are available by calling: 724-924-2093, 724-924-9461. Proceeds will go for Missions.
Community Thanksgiving Worship Service
The Westminster College Office of the Chaplain and Church Relation and the New Wilmington Ministerium are hosting a Community Thanksgiving Worship Service on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at 7 PM in the Westminster College Wallace Memorial Chapel. The evening’s speaker will be Rev. Dr. John Peterson, Pastor Emeritus at Center Presbyterian Church. The offering for the evening is canned goods and monetary gifts to support and develop a local Food Pantry.
Global Gift Market
The community is invited to celebrate and participate in the Global Gift Market sponsored by the Young Presbyterian Scholars program at Westminster College. The Global Gift Market will be held on Wednesday, December 1, 2010 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM in the Witherspoon Maple Room in the McKelvey Campus Center. Gifts purchased at the market will provide a gift of food, medicine, education, etc. to those with great need around the world…the perfect gift for that someone who has everything is a gift that helps others.
Bake Sale
Shenango SeniorCare will be holding a Bake Sale on December 3 & 4 from 9 AM to 3 PM to benefit their benevolence fund.
In Search Of…
Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church is in search of a choir director and/or organist. Will be expected to play for Sunday services and special services. Will discuss salary and hours at interview. Send resume to Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church; 129 Mount Air Road, New Castle, PA 16102.
Blue Christmas Service
New Wilmington Presbyterian Church will be offering a “Blue Christmas Service” on Sunday, December 5th at 6 PM. This service will be an opportunity to gather for a quiet time of hope and celebration in the midst of sadness or stress. This time is less about colored lights, and more about Jesus, the Light who shines into our darkness. This worksho is less about sparkling holiday cheer, and more about finding quiet, divine holiday strength. Open to the community.
An Advent Carillon at Calvin Presbyterian Church
Calvin Presbyterian Church in Ellwood City will be presenting an Advent Carillon on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 6 PM. Tickets for the program and catered dinner following the program are $12.00 ($6.00 for children under 10). Program only tickets are free. Contact the church at 724-758-4258 for more information.
Piano Free to a Church
1920’s Mahogany upright piano manufactured by Hazlett Brothers, NY is free to any church that can use it…it just needs to be tuned (church must come pick it up). Please contact Katherine Brookover for more information at 724-662-4598.
The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at Westfield Presbyterian Church in New Castle.
Highlights of the meeting include:
– Examination of a candidate for ordination
– New brochures will be available on Sudan and Missionaries of the Nile Valley
– Recognition of Debbie Forsberg’s 10 years of service as Resource Center Director and Receptionist for the Presbytery Office.
Get the docket online at: http://www.shenango.org/News/meeting.htm
Westfield Presbyterian Church is located at 1363 mt. Jackson Road, New Castle, PA 16102
News from the Presbytery Office
Please Pray for Sudan
The situation in the Sudan has been difficult, at best, for years. At this moment it is more critical than ever, especially with the January 9 vote on forming two countries! The Shenango Sudan Leadership Team has called for two special Prayer Meetings for the Sudan.
– Sunday, November 14 at 7 PM at the New Wilmington Church
– Friday, January 7 at 7 PM at Northminster Church (New Castle)
We will hear updates on the situation and pray together for the Sudan and our sisters and brothers in the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church. Please include prayers for the Sudan regularly in your church.
Learn About the Belhar Confession
Dr. Joe Small (Director of the Theology, Worship and Educational Ministries, PC (USA)) will present a lecture on this confession at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary on Friday, December 10th, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM. The cost is $20. Register online: http://www.pts.edu/CE_Registration. If anyone is interested in carpooling, or if there’s enough interest riding a 13-passenger bus, contact Rev. Glenn Hink, 1st Sharon (724-981-2211 ext. 2 or pastor@1stpcs.org). “Carpoolers” with Glenn will leave about 7 AM , and stop for lunch on the way home.
A Magnificent Story from the South Sudan…including a Presbyterian Church
The November National Georgraphic has a fine story about migratory animals in the south Sudan. It is followed by “A Shaky Peace” by Matthew Teague. This will help us understand why our prayers for the Sudan are especially important now as the January 9 Referendum approaches. http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/11/southern-sudan/teague-text.
Growing Into Tomorrow…Today – A Holistic Retirement Planning Education Seminar
December 7-8, 2010 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary…learn about steps you can take today to prepare for your best tomorrow. Registration with the Board of Pensions by November 12th is required, and seating is limited to the first 30 registrants. For more information, seehttp://www.pensions.org/growingintotomorrowtoday.
News from the Churches
Alternative Christmas Mission Fair
Jamestown Presbyterian Church will be holding the fair on Sunday, November 7th from 12:30 – 3:00 PM. This is an opportunity to do some Christmas shopping and help people in need in our area and around the world. A free lunch will be provided. For more information, contact the church at 724-932-2101.
Fall Craft and Home Based Business Bazaar
@ Shenango SeniorCare Friday, November 5 and Saturday, November 6 from 9 AM to 3 PM.
Soup Supper at Oak Grove
The Soup is on at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church, 7152 Old Rt. 422, Portersville on Saturday, November 13th with Vegetable, Cream of Broccoli, and Cream of Potato, salad, dessert for only $7.00. Tickets are available by calling: 724-924-2093, 724-924-9461. Proceeds will go for Missions.
Fall Spaghetti Dinner
Northminster Church in New Castle will be having their annual Fall Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, November 6th from 4:30-7:00 PM. Tickets are available at the door; adults are $7.50 and children ages 3-10 are $3.00. Dinner includes salad, spaghetti, dessert and beverage.
Calling Crafters and Vendors:
Bethlehem Church will hold a “Come to Bethlehem for Christmas” craft sale, Saturday, November 20, 9-5 PM. Tables are $20 for an 8 ft. table, $15 for a 6 ft. table, and $10 for a card table. The church will provide the tables. Call Beth Bottenfield to register, 724-813-7921.
Bake Sale
Shenango SeniorCare will be holding a Bake Sale on December 3 & 4 from 9 AM to 3 PM to benefit their benevolence fund.
In Search Of…
Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church is in search of a choir director and/or organist. Will be expected to play for Sunday services and special services. Will discuss salary and hours at interview. Send resume to Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church; 129 Mount Air Road, New Castle, PA 16102.
Blue Christmas Service
New Wilmington Presbyterian Church will be offering a “Blue Christmas Service” on Sunday, December 5th at 6 PM. This service will be an opportunity to gather for a quiet time of hope and celebration in the midst of sadness or stress. This time is less about colored lights, and more about Jesus, the Light who shines into our darkness. This worksho is less about sparkling holiday cheer, and more about finding quiet, divine holiday strength. Open to the community.
The Presbytery Office will be closed today while the water company works in the parking lot. We hope to re-open tomorrow and apologize for any inconvenience this causes you.
Registrations Due Monday!
More than 50 participants from 20 churches have already registered…
On Saturday, November 6, 2010, the Shenango Presbytery’s Evangelism Committee and Leadership Development Team are offering a workshop on the theme of how to grow your church. “Reversing the Decline Workshop” will be led by the the Rev. Dr. Scott Sunquist, Professor of World Christianity at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and an international leader in evangelism and mission.
The workshop will be held at the Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church in New Castle, PA from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. (registration starts at 8:30 am.), with lunch included. There is no registration fee!
Please help us get the word out in your church and community, starting with getting together a team in your congregation and registering through the Shenango Presbytery Office as described in the brochure by Monday, November 1st.
Complaint Focus or Mission Focus
James Kim is a Presbyterian Minister in Lakewood, WA who writes something that might be important for us all.
http://jameskimlcop.blogspot.com/2010/10/complain-focus-or-mission-focus.html.
News from the Presbytery Office
To Pastors, Sessions, and Evangelism/Outreach committees:
On Saturday, November 6, 2010, the Shenango Presbytery’s Evangelism Committee and Leadership Development Team are offering a workshop on the theme of how to grow your church.
Titled the “Reversing the Decline Workshop,” it will be led by the the Rev. Dr. Scott Sunquist, Professor of World Christianity at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and an international leader in evangelism and mission.
The workshop will be held at the Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church in New Castle, PA from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. (registration starts at 8:30 am.), with lunch included. Please see the attached brochure for more information.
There is no registration fee–all costs are being covered by the sponsors. We just want you to come, learn and grow, so that together we may be more faithful and effective in our ministry and mission.
Please help us get the word out in your church and community, starting with getting together a team in your congregation and registering through the Shenango Presbytery Office as described in the brochure by Monday, November 1st.
If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Jim Latta, Evangelism Committee Chair by email at piperjim@zoominternet.net or by phone, 724-758-4258.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Something Important is Happening in Cape Town, South Africa Right Now
One hundred years ago the greatest mission conference ever was held Edinburgh, Scotland. Part of the celebration of that event is happening right now in South Africa. Dr. Scott Sunquist, who will be speaking at the “Reversing the Decline Evangelism Workshop” on November 6, is attending. His roommate, Richard Haney writes this blog http://www.pres-outlook.com/blog/Day-One-Part-One.html. You can learn more at http://www.lausanne.org/cape-town-2010 (loads slowly).
Learn About the Belhar Confession
Dr. Joe Small (Director of the Theology, Worship and Educational Ministries, PC (USA)) will present a lecture on this confession at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary on Friday, December 10th, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM. The cost is $20. Register online: http://www.pts.edu/CE_Registration. If anyone is interested in carpooling, or if there’s enough interest riding a 13-passenger bus, contact Rev. Glenn Hink, 1st Sharon (724-981-2211 ext. 2 or pastor@1stpcs.org). “Carpoolers” with Glenn will leave about 7 AM , and stop for lunch on the way home.
A Magnificent Story from the South Sudan…including a Presbyterian Church
The November National Georgraphic has a fine story about migratory animals in the south Sudan. It is followed by “A Shaky Peace” by Matthew Teague. This will help us understand why our prayers for the Sudan are especially important now as the January 9 Referendum approaches. http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2010/11/southern-sudan/teague-text.
Growing Into Tomorrow…Today – A Holistic Retirement Planning Education Seminar
December 7-8, 2010 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary…learn about steps you can take today to prepare for your best tomorrow. Registration with the Board of Pensions by November 12th is required, and seating is limited to the first 30 registrants. For more information, see http://www.pensions.org/growingintotomorrowtoday.
News from the Churches
Soup Supper at Oak Grove
The Soup is on at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church, 7152 Old Rt. 422, Portersville on Saturday, November 13th with Vegetable, Cream of Broccoli, and Cream of Potato, salad, dessert for only $7.00. Tickets are available by calling: 724-924-2093, 724-924-9461. Proceeds will go for Missions.
Stuffed Cabbage Sale!
Bethlehem Church is offering pork ‘pigs in a blanket’ for sale on Saturday, October 30. Pick-up is at the church, 710 Carnegie Avenue, Sharon, from 10 AM until 1 PM. Cost is $2 per “pig”. Phone your orders into Pastor Robbie, 724-983-0194 by Wednesday, October 27. Thanks for your support!
Fall Spaghetti Dinner
Northminster Church in New Castle will be having their annual Fall Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, November 6th from 4:30-7:00 PM. Tickets are available at the door; adults are $7.50 and children ages 3-10 are $3.00. Dinner includes salad, spaghetti, dessert and beverage.
Calling Crafters and Vendors:
Bethlehem Church will hold a “Come to Bethlehem for Christmas” craft sale, Saturday, November 20, 9-5 PM. Tables are $20 for an 8 ft. table, $15 for a 6 ft. table, and $10 for a card table. The church will provide the tables. Call Beth Bottenfield to register, 724-813-7921.
In Search Of…
Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church is in search of a choir director and/or organist. Will be expected to play for Sunday services and special services. Will discuss salary and hours at interview. Send resume to Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church; 129 Mount Air Road, New Castle, PA 16102.
Something Important is Happening in Cape Town, South Africa Right Now
One hundred years ago the greatest mission conference ever was held Edinburgh, Scotland. Part of the celebration of that event is happening right now in South Africa. Dr. Scott Sunquist, who will be speaking at the “Reversing the Decline Evangelism Workshop” on November 6, is attending. His roommate, Richard Haney writes this blog http://www.pres-outlook.com/blog/Day-One-Part-One.html. You can learn more at http://www.lausanne.org/cape-town-2010 (loads slowly).
CORRECTION and Addition:
Dr. Mark Graham, Associate Professor of History at GCC will present a lecture entitled “Evangelical Scholarship? Dangers, Delights, and Dead-Ends” on October 25, 2010 at 7:00 PM in the Sticht Lecture Hall in the Hall of Arts and Letters.
On Wednesday, October 27 at 7 PM Eric Metaxas will be speaking on his book Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Spy – A Righteous Gentile vs. the Third Reich in Crawford Auditorium.
News from the Presbytery Office
Further Information
The memorial service for Teresa Kendall’s mother is Saturday, October 23, at 11 AM at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 12250 SW Denney Road, Beaverton, OR 97008 http://www.southmin.org.
Meeting Date Change
The Council Meeting originally scheduled for October 26th has been changed to Tuesday, November 9th. It will take place at 9:30 AM at Shenango Presbyterian Church in New Castle.
To Pastors, Sessions, and Evangelism/Outreach committees:
On Saturday, November 6, 2010, the Shenango Presbytery’s Evangelism Committee and Leadership Development Team are offering a workshop on the theme of how to grow your church.
Titled the “Reversing the Decline Workshop,” it will be led by the the Rev. Dr. Scott Sunquist, Professor of World Christianity at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and an international leader in evangelism and mission.
The workshop will be held at the Clen-Moore Presbyterian Church in New Castle, PA from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M. (registration starts at 8:30 am.), with lunch included. Please see the attached brochure for more information.
There is no registration fee–all costs are being covered by the sponsors. We just want you to come, learn and grow, so that together we may be more faithful and effective in our ministry and mission.
Please help us get the word out in your church and community, starting with getting together a team in your congregation and registering through the Shenango Presbytery Office as described in the brochure.
If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Jim Latta, Evangelism Committee Chair by email at piperjim@zoominternet.net or by phone, 724-758-4258.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Evolution Today: The New Challenge to Christian Faith…a series on Theology and Science / A Broadcast Program
Ronald S. Cole-Turner, H. Parker Sharp Professor of Theology and Ethics, PTS The theory of evolution presents Christianity with its most profound challenge ever, going right to the heart of what we believe about Scripture, God, human nature, and the meaning of salvation. The challenge is even more difficult because the theory of evolution itself keeps evolving, raising new insights and new questions. This course will sort through the main claims of evolution from Darwin to today and ask how Christians can affirm a rich faith while living in an age of evolutionary biology. / Wednesday evenings, Oct. 20, 27, and Nov. 3, 2010 / 7:00-8:30 p.m. / $35 / 0.5 CEUs at Westminster College, Old Main 213.
Grove City Evangelical Scholarship Conference
Dr. Mark W. Graham, Associate Professor of History at GCC will present a lecture entitled “Evangelical Scholarship? Dangers, Delights, and Dead-Ends” on October 27, 2010 at 7:00 PM in the Sticht Lecture Hall in the Hall of Arts and Letters.
Also coming up is a Service of Evening Worship at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 8th in Harbison Chapel with Dr. Joseph Pipa, President of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Greenville, SC. Refreshments and social time will follow in the Great Room of the Breen Student Union.
News from the Churches
Soup Supper at Oak Grove
The Soup is on at Oak Grove Presbyterian Church, 7152 Old Rt. 422, Portersville on Saturday, November 13th with Vegetable, Cream of Broccoli, and Cream of Potato, salad, dessert for only $7.00. Tickets are available by calling: 724-924-2093, 724-924-9461. Proceeds will go for Missions.
Stuffed Cabbage Sale!
Bethlehem Church is offering pork ‘pigs in a blanket’ for sale on Saturday, October 30. Pick-up is at the church, 710 Carnegie Avenue, Sharon, from 10 AM until 1 PM. Cost is $2 per “pig”. Phone your orders into Pastor Robbie, 724-983-0194 by Wednesday, October 27. Thanks for your support!
Calling Crafters and Vendors:
Bethlehem Church will hold a “Come to Bethlehem for Christmas” craft sale, Saturday, November 20, 9-5 PM. Tables are $20 for an 8 ft. table, $15 for a 6 ft. table, and $10 for a card table. The church will provide the tables. Call Beth Bottenfield to register, 724-813-7921.
In Search Of…
Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church is in search of a choir director and/or organist. Will be expected to play for Sunday services and special services. Will discuss salary and hours at interview. Send resume to Mount Jackson Presbyterian Church; 129 Mount Air Road, New Castle, PA 16102.
The Presbytery of Shenango