LeaderFest 2017

Shenango Presbytery’s Annual LeaderFest
Saturday, January 14, 2017
8:30 am-1:30 pm
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”.

Byron Borger, along with his wife, Beth, own and operate Hearts & Minds, an independent Christian bookstore in Dallastown, PA, which they have run for 33 years.  Before opening the bookstore, they worked in campus ministry for the Coalition for Christian Outreach in McKeesport and Pittsburgh, and he served as associate director of the Thomas Merton Center in Pittsburgh.  Byron graduated from IUP with an MA in speech pathology in 1976 and later earned a Masters in Higher Education from Geneva College. He was recently awarded an honorary doctorate from Geneva College.

All relevant information, including costs, can be found in our brochure.

 

A Few Notes on Registration:

* Pay online! Individuals and Groups may now pay their registration fees online using the same form!  Individuals must use the coupon code “earlybird” to receive their discount (expires 1-3-2017).  Want to pay online for 2 regular registrations and 1 young leader?  It’s easy…just enter the numbers in the “pay online” section and click the buttons beside each choice to add multiple types of registrations to your shopping cart!

* Group discount! Churches may send as many leaders as they’d like for only $100 (but all must be registered by January 2…it will be $20 per person after that).  If you are registering a group from your church, simply upload a file (ex. Excel Spreadsheet) with a list each individual’s registration information, and mail a check to the office or select “Church Registration” to pay online before the discount deadline.  After January 3rd, simply enter the number of individuals under the “Regular Registration” option to pay for the group online.

* Young leaders! Once again, we are encouraging churches to send young leaders (ages 14-22) to LeaderFest. Cost is only $5/person and there will be a special workshop geared toward these individuals.

Click here to register online!

 

For more information, please e-mail Andrea Hall, moderator of the Christian Education committee, at andreabhall@gmail.com or contact the presbytery office at office@shenango.org or 724-528-1610.

Official Call to the November 29, 2016 Stated Presbytery Meeting

The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 at First Presbyterian Church, New Castle.  

Important Items Before Presbytery Include:

  • Mission Offering to benefit World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary
  • Vote on the 2017 Ministry and Mission Spending Plan
  • Consideration of proposed amendments to the Book of Order
  • Honorable retirement of TE Don Stanley
  • South Sudan Christmas Challenge
  • Greetings from Lynn Foreman, Presbyterian Mission Agency
  • Consideration of RE Carolyn Moss for Candidacy

Get the Docket, Council Minutes, and Proposed Amendments!

NOTE: Please email any documents for inclusion in the packet to Autumn at office@shenango.org ASAP.  

eLink News – EXTRA!

hunter-farrell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two items related to our November 29 stated presbytery meeting at First Presbyterian Church, New Castle:

 

WMI OFFERING

Our Coordinating Council has approved another mission offering for this presbytery meeting, in honor of Rev. Dr. Hunter Farrell’s appointment to serve as the new director of World Mission Initiative as Pittsburgh Seminary.  Son of our presbytery Rev. Don Dawson retired this year as WMI director, and Hunter has been appointed to take this world mission focus at PTS into the next era.  Previously, Hunter lead the World Mission efforts for our Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination.  In that role, he was a good friend to us here in Shenango, supporting and encouraging our partnership work in the Sudan, South Sudan, and other places. We want to welcome Hunter to our region by giving an offering to WMI at Pittsburgh Seminary in his honor.  This offering will be collecting during our presbytery worship service.

 

LYNNE FOREMAN DINNER

Prior to the presbytery meeting, pastors and elders are invited to the Confluence Coffee House at 5pm in downtown New Castle to share in a light supper with Lynne Foreman, the Mission Engagement Advisor assigned to us by our denomination.  Lynne is especially interested to hear about our global mission commitments and to share with us ways our Louisville staff can support the mission and ministry that is important to us.  Dinner will be self-pay; one does not have to eat dinner in order to share in conversation.

eLink News

This Week:

November 17- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

November 21- 9:00 AM PW Coordinating Team, Presbytery Office

November 23-25- OFFICE CLOSED, Thanksgiving Holiday

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at the Oak Grove church (Nov 20) and speaking to the First New Castle congregation (Nov 20).  He will be leading officer and staff training at the St. Andrews—Covenant Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, North Carolina (Nov 11-13), where Rev. Bob Bardeen (formerly here in Shenango) is the Interim Pastor. He will also be attending our synod’s annual Committee on Ministry training in State College (Nov 17-18). 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.

 

Bailey Memorial Service

The Memorial Service for the late Dr. Kenneth Bailey that was held at NEST on October 9, 2016 is now available on YouTube.

 

Don Dawson in the Synod News

Read the story here, http://www.syntrinity.org/featured/don-dawson-helped-reshape-mission-focus-in-western-pa/

 

News From the Churches

Tis’ the Season of Giving…

Word Centered Presbyterian will be providing dinners on Thanksgiving!  There is no charge, just loving!  If you know of anyone that would be blessed by the love, PLEASE give us a call at 724-699-2344.  All we need is a name, address, and phone number!  If you are so moved, we’d appreciate some help in getting the meals to the people.  PLEASE call and let us know that we can count on you for about an hour of your day, again PLEASE call: 724-699-2344.  Also, we welcome food to aid in putting dishes together.  Baked/sliced turkeys would be a huge blessing!  In anticipation of your gift: THANK YOU, WE LOVE YOU AND YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!

 

You’re Invited to…

The Boar’s Head Festival, a celebration in music and pageantry of the birth of Christ at Christ Presbyterian Church (325 Spring Avenue, Ellwood City) on Saturday, November 26th at 7 PM, Saturday, December 3rd at 5 & 7 PM, or Sunday, December 4th at 5 & 7 PM.  Call 724-758-4563 for your FREE tickets.

 

Messiah Concert

The Shenango Valley Chorale and Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Stephen Barr, will present the Christmas portion of Handel’s MESSIAH on Sunday afternoon, November 20th, at 2:30 PM in the Sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon.  The concert is free and open to the public.  Begin your Christmas celebration with the reason for the season: the coming of our Savior, Christ the Lord, as it is proclaimed in the beauty of Handel’s music.

 

Part Time Organist/Music Director Wanted

First Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls is looking for a part time Organist/Music Director.  For more information, click here.

 

Free Organ

Lowry Electric Organ in beautiful condition

eLink News

This Week:

November 15- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock Presbyterian Church

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at the Oak Grove church (Nov 20) and speaking to the First New Castle congregation (Nov 20).  He will be leading officer and staff training at the St. Andrews—Covenant Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, North Carolina (Nov 11-13), where Rev. Bob Bardeen (formerly here in Shenango) is the Interim Pastor. He will also be attending our synod’s annual Committee on Ministry training in State College (Nov 17-18). 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 Don Stanley (Jamestown) has been approved for Honorable Retirement, effective this month.

– TE Nathan Loudon has been transferred to Beaver-Butler presbytery to begin a new call at North Sewickley Presbyterian Church, south of Ellwood City.

– The Jamestown Presbyterian Church has been dismissed by the presbytery to ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians.

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

 

Attention Pastors in the Board of Pensions Benefits Plan

Annual Enrollment now requires the action of ALL plan members – including pastors!  If you currently receive benefits from the Board of Pension, and want to continue to receive these benefits in 2017, you must select the benefits during Annual Enrollment.  Read more here.

 

News From the Churches

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 North Main Street, Bessemer) will host a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 12th from 5-7 PM.  Proceeds will benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or take out available.  Call the church office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

Women’s Ministries @ First: EAT PAINT SIP

November 13, 12-3 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon, PA.  Enjoy a delicious lunch of hot soups, sandwich and delicious non-alcoholic drinks; then create a beautiful sunflower tile trivet using alcohol inks. You don’t have to be an artist to do this.  Cost: $20.00 for lunch and instruction/supply fee.  Limited class size.  Call Debbie Derrenbacher to reserve your spot in the class and lunch. 724/981-2211 ext. 3

 

Tis’ the Season of Giving…

Word Centered Presbyterian will be providing dinners on Thanksgiving!  There is no charge, just loving!  If you know of anyone that would be blessed by the love, PLEASE give us a call at 724-699-2344.  All we need is a name, address, and phone number!  If you are so moved, we’d appreciate some help in getting the meals to the people.  PLEASE call and let us know that we can count on you for about an hour of your day, again PLEASE call: 724-699-2344.  Also, we welcome food to aid in putting dishes together.  Baked/sliced turkeys would be a huge blessing!  In anticipation of your gift: THANK YOU, WE LOVE YOU AND YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!

 

You’re Invited to…

The Boar’s Head Festival, a celebration in music and pageantry of the birth of Christ at Christ Presbyterian Church (325 Spring Avenue, Ellwood City) on Saturday, November 26th at 7 PM, Saturday, December 3rd at 5 & 7 PM, or Sunday, December 4th at 5 & 7 PM.  Call 724-758-4563 for your FREE tickets.

 

Messiah Concert

The Shenango Valley Chorale and Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Stephen Barr, will present the Christmas portion of Handel’s MESSIAH on Sunday afternoon, November 20th, at 2:30 PM in the Sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon.  The concert is free and open to the public.  Begin your Christmas celebration with the reason for the season: the coming of our Savior, Christ the Lord, as it is proclaimed in the beauty of Handel’s music.

 

Part Time Organist/Music Director Wanted

First Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls is looking for a part time Organist/Music Director.  For more information, click here.

eLink News

This Week:

November 2- 9:30 AM Steering Team, Presbytery Office
1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
November 8- 9:30 AM Council, Lebanon Presbyterian Church

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at the Oak Grove church (Nov 20) and speaking to the First New Castle congregation (Nov 20).  He will be leading officer and staff training at the St. Andrews—Covenant Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, North Carolina (Nov 11-13), where Rev. Bob Bardeen (formerly here in Shenango) is the Interim Pastor. He will also be attending our synod’s annual Committee on Ministry training in State College (Nov 17-18). 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 Don Stanley (Jamestown) has been approved for Honorable Retirement, effective this month.

– TE Nathan Loudon has been transferred to Beaver-Butler presbytery to begin a new call at North Swickley Presbyterian Church, south of Ellwood City.

– The Jamestown Presbyterian Church has been dismissed by the presbytery to ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians.

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

 

Attention Pastors in the Board of Pensions Benefits Plan

Annual Enrollment now requires the action of ALL plan members – including pastors!  If you currently receive benefits from the Board of Pension, and want to continue to receive these benefits in 2017, you must select the benefits during Annual Enrollment.  Read more here.

 

Synod of the Trinity Gathering

The recent annual Synod of the Trinity gathering, pictured here, included our two Shenango commissioners:  Ruling Elder Kay Hilliard (Northminster) and Teaching Elder Matthew Camlin (New Wilmington).

 synod-gathering

Egyptian Partnership Featured

Shenango’s Egyptian Partnership in Mission has been featured in Synod News.  Click here to read more…

News From the Churches

You’re Invited

Bessemer Presbyterian Church invites you to a concert by The Tom Walker Family of New Castle, PA on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 7:00 PM.  A free will offering will be received!  Refreshments will follow!  The church is located at 29 North Main Street, Bessemer, PA.  For more information, please call the Church Office at 724-667-7255.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 North Main Street, Bessemer) will host a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 12th from 5-7 PM.  Proceeds will benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or take out available.  Call the church office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

The Arts @ First: Random Acts of Artists Pop Up Art Show, Sale & Share

Saturday, November 5, 2016, 1 – 5 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 E. State St. Sharon, PA.  Bring the family to see local artists and their marvelous work! Great opportunity for early Christmas shopping! And some of the artists will be sharing their expertise through hands-on demonstrations.  Fall refreshments will be served.  This is a free event so come out and enjoy the day!

If you would like to know more about how to participate in the Random Acts of Artists, or more information about the show and sale, please call Debbie Derrenbacher 724/981-2211 x3 or Linda Clark at 330-534-5060.

 

A Special Invitation…

In these days of national chaos, we at Unity Presbyterian Church invite ALL to come on Sunday evening, November 6, 2016 at 6:00 PM to listen to a talk by Dr. James Bibza, Professor of Christian Thought at Grove City College, on the subject of “Being a Christian in the Age of Chaos”.  Refreshments will be served.  Please invite friends and family to this important meeting.  For more information, please call: 724-981-2377 or 724-346-9501 (leave a message).

 

Women’s Ministries @ First: EAT PAINT SIP

November 13, 12-3 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon, PA.  Enjoy a delicious lunch of hot soups, sandwich and delicious non-alcoholic drinks; then create a beautiful sunflower tile trivet using alcohol inks. You don’t have to be an artist to do this.  Cost: $20.00 for lunch and instruction/supply fee.  Limited class size.  Call Debbie Derrenbacher to reserve your spot in the class and lunch. 724/981-2211 ext. 3

 

Tis’ the Season of Giving…

Word Centered Presbyterian will be providing dinners on Thanksgiving!  There is no charge, just loving!  If you know of anyone that would be blessed by the love, PLEASE give us a call at 724-699-2344.  All we need is a name, address, and phone number!  If you are so moved, we’d appreciate some help in getting the meals to the people.  PLEASE call and let us know that we can count on you for about an hour of your day, again PLEASE call: 724-699-2344.  Also, we welcome food to aid in putting dishes together.  Baked/sliced turkeys would be a huge blessing!  In anticipation of your gift: THANK YOU, WE LOVE YOU AND YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!

 

eLink News

Attention Pastors in the Board of Pensions Benefits Plan

Annual Enrollment now requires the action of ALL plan members – including pastors!  If you currently receive benefits from the Board of Pension, and want to continue to receive these benefits in 2017, you must select the benefits during Annual Enrollment.  Read more here.

 

FREE Community Bereavement Series

Wednesdays during October and the first week of November from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at the Diagnostic and Imaging Center (2435 Garden Way, Hermitage) with Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice.  Please bring a brown bag lunch.

 

Egyptian Partnership Featured

Shenango’s Egyptian Partnership in Mission has been featured in Synod News.  Click here to read more…

News From the Churches

Fall Rummage Sale

Trinity Presbyterian Church will be having a Fall Rummage Sale on Friday, October 28 from 8 AM to 4 PM and Saturday, October 29 from 8 AM to NOON.  Saturday is ½ off day with clothing $1/bag.  The proceeds will benefit hurricane victims of Haiti.

 

Trunk or Treat

October 30, 2016 from 4-5:30 PM at Mt. Hermon Presbyterian Church (3116 Frew Mill Rd., New Castle).  For children 13 years of age and younger.  For more information, call the church at 724-924-2737 or Karen Lynn at 724-924-9431.

 

You’re Invited

Bessemer Presbyterian Church invites you to a concert by The Tom Walker Family of New Castle, PA on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 7:00 PM.  A free will offering will be received!  Refreshments will follow!  The church is located at 29 North Main Street, Bessemer, PA.  For more information, please call the Church Office at 724-667-7255.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 North Main Street, Bessemer) will host a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 12th from 5-7 PM.  Proceeds will benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or take out available.  Call the church office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

The Arts @ First: Random Acts of Artists Pop Up Art Show, Sale & Share

Saturday, November 5, 2016, 1 – 5 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 E. State St. Sharon, PA.  Bring the family to see local artists and their marvelous work! Great opportunity for early Christmas shopping! And some of the artists will be sharing their expertise through hands-on demonstrations.  Fall refreshments will be served.  This is a free event so come out and enjoy the day!

If you would like to know more about how to participate in the Random Acts of Artists, or more information about the show and sale, please call Debbie Derrenbacher 724/981-2211 x3 or Linda Clark at 330-534-5060.

 

A Special Invitation…

In these days of national chaos, we at Unity Presbyterian Church invite ALL to come on Sunday evening, November 6, 2016 at 6:00 PM to listen to a talk by Dr. James Bibza, Professor of Christian Thought at Grove City College, on the subject of “Being a Christian in the Age of Chaos”.  Refreshments will be served.  Please invite friends and family to this important meeting.  For more information, please call: 724-981-2377 or 724-346-9501 (leave a message).

 

Women’s Ministries @ First: EAT PAINT SIP

November 13, 12-3 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon, PA.  Enjoy a delicious lunch of hot soups, sandwich and delicious non-alcoholic drinks; then create a beautiful sunflower tile trivet using alcohol inks. You don’t have to be an artist to do this.  Cost: $20.00 for lunch and instruction/supply fee.  Limited class size.  Call Debbie Derrenbacher to reserve your spot in the class and lunch. 724/981-2211 ext. 3

 

Tis’ the Season of Giving…

Word Centered Presbyterian will be providing dinners on Thanksgiving!  There is no charge, just loving!  If you know of anyone that would be blessed by the love, PLEASE give us a call at 724-699-2344.  All we need is a name, address, and phone number!  If you are so moved, we’d appreciate some help in getting the meals to the people.  PLEASE call and let us know that we can count on you for about an hour of your day, again PLEASE call: 724-699-2344.  Also, we welcome food to aid in putting dishes together.  Baked/sliced turkeys would be a huge blessing!  In anticipation of your gift: THANK YOU, WE LOVE YOU AND YOU CAN’T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT!

 

eLink News

This Week:

October 20- 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Ellport church (Oct 9), visiting Kennard church (Oct 16), and preaching at Word Centered church (Oct 23). He will be preaching and leading a leadership workshop at the annual Wee Kirk Conference at Laurelville, Pa (Oct 10-12).  He will attend the Synod of the Trinity meeting with our commissioners (Oct 24-25) and the annual Stated Clerk’s Polity Conference in Louisville, KY (Oct 28-30).  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Attention Pastors in the Board of Pensions Benefits Plan

Annual Enrollment now requires the action of ALL plan members – including pastors!  If you currently receive benefits from the Board of Pension, and want to continue to receive these benefits in 2017, you must select the benefits during Annual Enrollment.  Read more here.

 

Backpack Program in the News

The Lakeview Area Backpack Program feeds 107 of Mercer County’s 830 participating students.  Read the article from a recent edition of The Sharon Herald. 

 

Don Dawson to Retire

The Rev. Don Dawson will retire on October 31 as Director of the World Mission Initiative (WMI) at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and the New Wilmington Mission Conference.  He has presided as director of both since 2000.  Read more. 

 

Farrell to Lead World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary

Hunter Farrell, who is stepping down as head of World Mission for the PC(USA), announced October 5 that he has accepted a call to serve as the director of the World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  His new position will begin in January.  Read the article from The Presbyterian Outlook.

 

Welcome a New Director at NWMC

The NWMC Board of Managers is pleased to announce the selection of Reverend Virginia (Ginny) Teitt as Director of the New Wilmington Mission Conference beginning November 1, 2016.  Ginny has attended NWMC since 1997 and has served in many roles at Conference during that time, as well as serving as a Perspectives Instructor, Adjunct Seminary Professor and Chair of the Presbytery of Scioto Valley Global Missions Committee.  Read more on the NWMC website.

 

Discerning Your Call to Missions

On Saturday, October 22, 2016, join Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for the annual Discerning Your Call to Missions event from 9 AM – 4 PM.  This FREE workshop features Rev. Don Dawson, director of WMI, Stephanie Bell, spiritual director, and Elizabeth Trexler, former missionary.   RSVP by October 17th to wmi@pts.edu.

 

FREE Community Bereavement Series

Wednesdays during October and the first week of November from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at the Diagnostic and Imaging Center (2435 Garden Way, Hermitage) with Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice.  Please bring a brown bag lunch.

 

News From the Churches

Do Some Christmas Shopping with a purpose.

Trinity Art Fest Fundraiser for Stop Hunger Now – October 21 and 22

Artisans and crafters from Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer will offer their items Friday Oct. 21 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday Oct. 22 from 10:00 to 3:00 in the Fellowship Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 110 E. Market St., Mercer.  Items include paintings, photography, upcycled fashion, baby items, purses, quilling, wreaths, jewelry, fancy cookies.  A Chinese Auction will be featured.  Hot lunches will be served and available for take-out, homemade soup, baked goods, and apple dumplings will also be available.

Stop Hunger Now is an international hunger relief non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food and other life-saving aid to the world’s most vulnerable people.  Its goal is to eliminate world hunger in our lifetime.  Stop Hunger Now has provided over 225 million meals in 74 countries at a cost of 29 cents per meal.  With your help, Trinity members hope to assembly and package over 17,000 nutritious meals for hungry people on November 5th.

 

Trunk or Treat

October 30, 2016 from 4-5:30 PM at Mt. Hermon Presbyterian Church (3116 Frew Mill Rd., New Castle).  For children 13 years of age and younger.  For more information, call the church at 724-924-2737 or Karen Lynn at 724-924-9431.

 

You’re Invited

Bessemer Presbyterian Church invites you to a concert by The Tom Walker Family of New Castle, PA on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 7:00 PM.  A free will offering will be received!  Refreshments will follow!  The church is located at 29 North Main Street, Bessemer, PA.  For more information, please call the Church Office at 724-667-7255.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 North Main Street, Bessemer) will host a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 12th from 5-7 PM.  Proceeds will benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or take out available.  Call the church office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

The Arts @ First: Random Acts of Artists Pop Up Art Show, Sale & Share

Saturday, November 5, 2016, 1 – 5 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 E. State St. Sharon, PA.  Bring the family to see local artists and their marvelous work! Great opportunity for early Christmas shopping! And some of the artists will be sharing their expertise through hands-on demonstrations.  Fall refreshments will be served.  This is a free event so come out and enjoy the day!

If you would like to know more about how to participate in the Random Acts of Artists, or more information about the show and sale, please call Debbie Derrenbacher 724/981-2211 x3 or Linda Clark at 330-534-5060.

 

Women’s Ministries @ First: EAT PAINT SIP

November 13, 12-3 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 600 East State Street, Sharon, PA.  Enjoy a delicious lunch of hot soups, sandwich and delicious non-alcoholic drinks; then create a beautiful sunflower tile trivet using alcohol inks. You don’t have to be an artist to do this.  Cost: $20.00 for lunch and instruction/supply fee.  Limited class size.  Call Debbie Derrenbacher to reserve your spot in the class and lunch. 724/981-2211 ext. 3

 

eLink News

This Week:

October 10-12- Northeast Wee Kirk Conference, Laurelville Mennonite Church Center, Mt. Pleasant, PA

October 15- 9 AM PW Fall Gathering, First Presbyterian Church, Sharon

October 18- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry, Neshannock, NW

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Ellport church (Oct 9), visiting Kennard church (Oct 16), and preaching at Word Centered church (Oct 23). He will be preaching and leading a leadership workshop at the annual Wee Kirk Conference at Laurelville, Pa (Oct 10-12).  He will attend the Synod of the Trinity meeting with our commissioners (Oct 24-25) and the annual Stated Clerk’s Polity Conference in Louisville, KY (Oct 28-30).  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Stated Clerk Updates

– RE Charlene Kennedy (Bell Memorial) has been commissioned by the presbytery to serve as pastor of the Ellport congregation, Ellwood City.

– TE Steve Stelle (MAL) and TE Gary Smith (Grove City College) were added to the approved Pulpit Supply list

– Shenango has transferred the following minister members to other presbyteries: TE Bill Knechtel (Pulaski) to ECO Rivers of Life presbytery; TE Angel DeLaCruz (Word Centered) to Prospect Hill presbytery, Iowa; TE Bill Stone III (Church of Scotland) to Newton presbytery, New Jersey; TE Mark Thompson (MAL) to Eastminster presbytery, Ohio; TE Betsy McCormick (MAL) to Northumberland presbytery, Pennsylvania

– Shenango received into membership TE Victor Makari (HR) from Scioto Valley presbytery

– TE Don Stanley (Jamestown) was approved to labor outside our bounds for 1 year, following the dismissal of the Jamestown church to ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians.  Don will remain a member of Shenango presbytery.

– Rev. Judy Wilson (Evangelical Methodist) was approved to serve as moderator of the Oak Grove session.  Judy has been part-time pastor of Oak Grove since February 2016.

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

 

Don Dawson to Retire

The Rev. Don Dawson will retire on October 31 as Director of the World Mission Initiative (WMI) at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and the New Wilmington Mission Conference.  He has presided as director of both since 2000.  Read more. 

 

Farrell to Lead World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Seminary

Hunter Farrell, who is stepping down as head of World Mission for the PC(USA), announced October 5 that he has accepted a call to serve as the director of the World Mission Initiative at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.  His new position will begin in January.  Read the article from The Presbyterian Outlook.

 

Welcome a New Director at NWMC

The NWMC Board of Managers is pleased to announce the selection of Reverend Virginia (Ginny) Teitt as Director of the New Wilmington Mission Conference beginning November 1, 2016.  Ginny has attended NWMC since 1997 and has served in many roles at Conference during that time, as well as serving as a Perspectives Instructor, Adjunct Seminary Professor and Chair of the Presbytery of Scioto Valley Global Missions Committee.  Read more on the NWMC website.

 

Discerning Your Call to Missions

On Saturday, October 22, 2016, join Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for the annual Discerning Your Call to Missions event from 9 AM – 4 PM.  This FREE workshop features Rev. Don Dawson, director of WMI, Stephanie Bell, spiritual director, and Elizabeth Trexler, former missionary.   RSVP by October 17th to wmi@pts.edu.

 

Bereavement Support Group

Facilitated by Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice, this support group will meet on Thursdays beginning on October 6th from 4-6 PM in the Parlor of First Presbyterian Church, Sharpsville.  Come learn about grief, how to cope with grief, and how to give support to those in the grieving process.  No sign up required.

 

FREE Community Bereavement Series

Wednesdays during October and the first week of November from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at the Diagnostic and Imaging Center (2435 Garden Way, Hermitage) with Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice.  Please bring a brown bag lunch.

 

News From the Churches

Rummage Sale

Bell Memorial, Ellwood City, will be holding a rummage sale the week of October 10th.  Setup, October 10th from 9:30 AM-5 PM.  Sale, October 11th – 9:30 AM – 9 PM.  Bag Day, October 12th – 9:30 AM till Noon, last day.

 

Do Some Christmas Shopping with a purpose.

Trinity Art Fest Fundraiser for Stop Hunger Now – October 21 and 22

Artisans and crafters from Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer will offer their items Friday Oct. 21 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Saturday Oct. 22 from 10:00 to 3:00 in the Fellowship Hall at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 110 E. Market St., Mercer.  Items include paintings, photography, upcycled fashion, baby items, purses, quilling, wreaths, jewelry, fancy cookies.  A Chinese Auction will be featured.  Hot lunches will be served and available for take-out, homemade soup, baked goods, and apple dumplings will also be available.

Stop Hunger Now is an international hunger relief non-profit organization that coordinates the packaging and distribution of food and other life-saving aid to the world’s most vulnerable people.  Its goal is to eliminate world hunger in our lifetime.  Stop Hunger Now has provided over 225 million meals in 74 countries at a cost of 29 cents per meal.  With your help, Trinity members hope to assembly and package over 17,000 nutritious meals for hungry people on November 5th.

 

You’re Invited

Bessemer Presbyterian Church invites you to a concert by The Tom Walker Family of New Castle, PA on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at 7:00 PM.  A free will offering will be received!  Refreshments will follow!  The church is located at 29 North Main Street, Bessemer, PA.  For more information, please call the Church Office at 724-667-7255.

 

Ham Loaf Dinner

Bessemer Presbyterian Church (29 North Main Street, Bessemer) will host a Ham Loaf Dinner on Saturday, November 12th from 5-7 PM.  Proceeds will benefit the Church’s General Fund.  Adults $10.00, Children 6-12 $5.00, Children 5 and under FREE.  Eat in or take out available.  Call the church office for tickets: 724-667-7255.

 

 

eLink News

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Ellport church (Oct 9), visiting Kennard church (Oct 16), and preaching at Word Centered church (Oct 23). He will be preaching and leading a leadership workshop at the annual Wee Kirk Conference at Laurelville, Pa (Oct 10-12).  He will attend the Synod of the Trinity meeting with our commissioners (Oct 24-25) and the annual Stated Clerk’s Polity Conference in Louisville, KY (Oct 28-30).  Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org.

 

Stated Clerk Updates

– RE Charlene Kennedy (Bell Memorial) has been commissioned by the presbytery to serve as pastor of the Ellport congregation, Ellwood City.

– TE Steve Stelle (MAL) and TE Gary Smith (Grove City College) were added to the approved Pulpit Supply list

– Shenango has transferred the following minister members to other presbyteries: TE Bill Knechtel (Pulaski) to ECO Rivers of Life presbytery; TE Angel DeLaCruz (Word Centered) to Prospect Hill presbytery, Iowa; TE Bill Stone III (Church of Scotland) to Newton presbytery, New Jersey; TE Mark Thompson (MAL) to Eastminster presbytery, Ohio; TE Betsy McCormick (MAL) to Northumberland presbytery, Pennsylvania

– Shenango received into membership TE Victor Makari (HR) from Scioto Valley presbytery

– TE Don Stanley (Jamestown) was approved to labor outside our bounds for 1 year, following the dismissal of the Jamestown church to ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians.  Don will remain a member of Shenango presbytery.

– Rev. Judy Wilson (Evangelical Methodist) was approved to serve as moderator of the Oak Grove session.  Judy has been part-time pastor of Oak Grove since February 2016.

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

 

Per Capita

The 2017 Per Capita budget was approved last week at the presbytery meeting and letters will be mailed this week to churches.  Amounts for 2017 are as follows: GA: $7.50, Synod: $2.30, Presbytery: $28.06 = $37.86 TOTAL.

 

Terms of Call

Last week the presbytery approved a 1% increase to the MINIMUM Terms of Call for full-time installed pastors, or $49,103 minimum effective salary.  The updated Terms of Call worksheet will be posted on our website shortly.

 

South Sudan Matching Challenge Surpassed
Two elders in one of our congregations have challenged our presbytery to match their $20,000 mission gift by September 27 for immediate food relief in South Sudan through our mission partners. Pastors and elders in our partner denomination SSPEC (South Sudanese Presbyterian Evangelical Church) will use these funds to purchase wholesale food suitable for distribution through their congregations.  We are happy to announce that together our congregations have donated $25,977.43…surpassing the challenge!  Thank you Shenango Presbytery for your generosity!  Congregational offerings can still be mailed to the presbytery office marked “South Sudan Match” or individuals can donate online at the Presbyterian Mission Exchange by choosing the fund SOUTH SUDAN HUNGER RELIEF MATCHING OFFERING.

 

The Synod Six

Five pastors and a church leader from the Presbyterian Church in Egypt (Synod of the Nile) recently travelled across the United States visiting churches and institutions of the Presbyterian Church (USA).  They made a stop at Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church, pictured here.  Rev. Steve Gorman (green shirt) led the group.  Steve is our Regional Liaison to the Synod of the Nile.  Rev. Beth Creekpaum, pastor at Sandy Lake, is serving on a national Egypt Partnership Network, seeking the renew bonds between American and Egyptian Presbyterians that go back more than a century.  Read more about the Synod Six travels here.

synod-six

Nominating Training

Pictured here, participants discuss the blessings and challenges of discerning the right persons for the right roles in their congregations during a recent presbytery-wide nominating training event, sponsored by the presbytery’s Christian Education committee.  Interested in some resources or coaching on your church’s nominating practices?  Contact EP Ralph Hawkins for more information.

nominating-training

Don Dawson to Retire

The Rev. Don Dawson will retire on October 31 as Director of the World Mission Initiative (WMI) at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and the New Wilmington Mission Conference.  He has presided as director of both since 2000.  Read more. 

 

Discerning Your Call to Missions

On Saturday, October 22, 2016, join Pittsburgh Theological Seminary for the annual Discerning Your Call to Missions event from 9 AM – 4 PM.  This FREE workshop features Rev. Don Dawson, director of WMI, Stephanie Bell, spiritual director, and Elizabeth Trexler, former missionary.   RSVP by October 17th to wmi@pts.edu.

 

Bereavement Support Group

Facilitated by Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice, this support group will meet on Thursdays beginning on October 6th from 4-6 PM in the Parlor of First Presbyterian Church, Sharpsville.  Come learn about grief, how to cope with grief, and how to give support to those in the grieving process.  No sign up required.

 

FREE Community Bereavement Series

Wednesdays during October and the first week of November from 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM at the Diagnostic and Imaging Center (2435 Garden Way, Hermitage) with Rev. Stacie Pitts, Chaplain and Bereavement Coordinator for SRHS Hospice.  Please bring a brown bag lunch.

 

Ancient Hebrew Scroll Project

The Ancient Hebrew Scroll display is the only complete set of the Tanakh (Old Testament) in the world that you can see.  It will be on display at Trinity School for Ministry (311 Eleventh Street, Ambridge, PA) on Wednesday, October 5th from 1-8 PM (with a presentation at 7 PM).  To know more about the scroll project or event info, visit http://ancienthebrewscrollproject.org.

 

 

News From the Churches

Rummage Sale

Bell Memorial, Ellwood City, will be holding a rummage sale the week of October 10th.  Setup, October 10th from 9:30 AM-5 PM.  Sale, October 11th – 9:30 AM – 9 PM.  Bag Day, October 12th – 9:30 AM till Noon, last day.