This Week:

August 30- 9:30 AM Steering Team, Presbytery Office

 

DeLaCruz Installed in Iowa

Rev. Angel DeLaCruz, former pastor of our Word Centered Fellowship in Sharon, was recently installed as the pastor of the First Presbyterian Church, Paullina, Iowa.  Read more about his new call to Paullina here.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Word Centered (Aug 28). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org

 

Who Is My Neighbor?

Thursday, August 25^th from 7-9 PM at First United Methodist Church in Ellwood City (416 Crescent Avenue) – an ecumenical worship service and racial reconciliation with conversations and refreshments.  For more information, contact Rev. Angelique Bradford at 724-758-6278. 

 

Nominating Committee Training

Do you serve on your congregation’s Nominating Committee?  Have you been elected by your session to chair that committee?  On Sunday, September 11^th (6:30 – 8:30 PM) at Faith Presbyterian Church in Hermitage, join EP Ralph Hawkins for practical training and helpful conversation about the sacred task of nominating elders, deacons, and trustees to serve the church and build up the body of Jesus.  Brought to you by the Presbytery’s Christian Education Committee.

 

Wee Kirk

Attend the upcoming Wee Kirk Conference, October 10-12 at Laurelville Mennonite Church Center in Mt. Pleasant, PA.  Be inspired, equipped, motivated, and encouraged as a small congregation by worship, workshops, and fellowship time.  Download a brochure or contact Jane Bartholomew for paper copies, and register today!  Churches with up to 125 members pay only $100 for a husband and wife, or $75 per single registrant.  Churches with 126-200 members pay $125 for a husband and wife, or $100 per single registrant.  EP Ralph Hawkins will be this year’s Communion Preacher and will also lead a workshop.

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

Sudan Celebration Choir

Singers are needed to share their voice in a one-time choir for the Celebrate Sudan Event on Sunday, September 25^th at 4 PM at East Main Presbyterian Church in Grove City.  Those who are willing to sing in the choir – rehearsal will be at 2:45 PM at East Main.  (A one hour rehearsal with a break before the actual Celebration begins.)  No robes – music will be provided.  Come and share your voice with this special celebration of mission.

 

Egypt Mission Network Events

• There are plans to take a team to Egypt in the fall to build partnerships with the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. Dates are October 26 – November 3 (with potential for adding on tourist trips pre and post).  Registration by Sept. 16.  For more information, http://www.egyptpartnershipnetwork.org/travel/2016/10/2/fall-2016-cairo-visit
• Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church (3461 Sandy Lake New Lebanon Road, Sandy Lake, PA) is hosting a dinner for 8 young Egyptian Church leaders and their hosts. Mark your calendar for a potluck dinner on September 14 from 6-8.  Bring a dish to pass and table service and come hear how the Spirit is moving amongst our brothers and sisters in Egypt.  (Questions: 724-376-2630 or TheOtherRevCreekpaum@gmail.com)

 

Continuing Education Opportunities and Events at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
For more information, click on the links, or go to www.pts.edu/CE for specific details…

• Language Over Lunch: Biblical Hebrew OR New Testament Greek, September 7-November 9
• Violence in Scripture, an online class with Jerome Creach, registration deadline September 12
• The Desert Abbas & Ammaswith Roberta Bondi, September 14-17
• Extending Hospitality, Conversations & Community Series, beginning September 14
• Change of Course: Navigating Christian Education Todaywith Paul Humphreys, September 24
• Transforming Mission, the McClure Lectures with Stephen Bevans, September 26-27
• The Place Where We Are Right: A Conversation between Friends about Israel & Palestine,September 29
• The Art of Transitional Ministry, Part 2, October 17-21
• The End of Adam & Eve: Theology & the Science of Human Origins, an online class with Ron Cole-Turner
• Are We There Yet? Safe Travels with Youth, aFREE WEBINAR resource

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

This Week:

August 18- OFFICE CLOSED – Staff will be attending an off-site meeting all day.
August 22- 9:30 AM Leadership Development Team, Presbytery Office

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Jackson Center (Aug 21) and Word Centered (Aug 28). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org

 

Who Is My Neighbor?

Thursday, August 25^th from 7-9 PM at First United Methodist Church in Ellwood City (416 Crescent Avenue) – an ecumenical worship service and racial reconciliation with conversations and refreshments.  For more information, contact Rev. Angelique Bradford at 724-758-6278. 

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

Egypt Mission Network Events

• There are plans to take a team to Egypt in the fall to build partnerships with the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. Dates are October 26 – November 3 (with potential for adding on tourist trips pre and post).  Registration by Sept. 16.  For more information, contact the presbytery office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.
• Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church (3461 Sandy Lake New Lebanon Road, Sandy Lake, PA) is hosting a dinner for 8 young Egyptian Church leaders and their hosts. Mark your calendar for a potluck dinner on September 14 from 6-8.  Bring a dish to pass and table service and come hear how the Spirit is moving amongst our brothers and sisters in Egypt.  (Questions: 724-376-2630 or TheOtherRevCreekpaum@gmail.com)

 

Art for Purchase

Rev. Grace Basham is producing art that is available for purchase online in a variety of forms.  Visit her online store and purchase items directly through the website.

 

Continuing Education Opportunities and Events at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
For more information, click on the links, or go to www.pts.edu/CE for specific details…

• Language Over Lunch: Biblical Hebrew OR New Testament Greek, September 7-November 9
• Violence in Scripture, an online class with Jerome Creach, registration deadline September 12
• The Desert Abbas & Ammas with Roberta Bondi, September 14-17
• Extending Hospitality, Conversations & Community Series, beginning September 14
• Change of Course: Navigating Christian Education Today with Paul Humphreys, September 24
• Transforming Mission, the McClure Lectures with Stephen Bevans, September 26-27
• The Place Where We Are Right: A Conversation between Friends about Israel & Palestine, September 29
• The Art of Transitional Ministry, Part 2, October 17-21
• The End of Adam & Eve: Theology & the Science of Human Origins, an online class with Ron Cole-Turner
• Are We There Yet? Safe Travels with Youth, a FREE WEBINAR resource

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or email admin@neshpresby.org.

 

This Week:

August 10 – 10:00 AM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office
August 11- 11:00 AM MCS Committee, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
1:00 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
August 14- 3:00 PM Website-Building Workshop, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church

 

Website-Building Workshop

Don’t have a website?  Want a better one?  Let our evangelism team build you a site so potential visitors can easily find you.  Sunday, August 14^th from 3-5 PM at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  RSVP to Rev. Sean Hall at revseanhall@hillsidepresby.com or by calling 724-638-7381.  A reservation is requested but not required.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Highland (Aug 14), Jackson Center (Aug 21), and Word Centered (Aug 28). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org

 

Muska Baptism

Congratulations to Rev. Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) and wife Heather on the baptism of their first child, Harper Rose, at Rich Hill church this past Sunday.

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

Egypt Mission Network Events

• There are plans to take a team to Egypt in the fall to build partnerships with the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. Dates are October 26 – November 3 (with potential for adding on tourist trips pre and post).  Registration by Sept. 16.  For more information, contact the presbytery office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.
• Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church (3461 Sandy Lake New Lebanon Road, Sandy Lake, PA) is hosting a dinner for 8 young Egyptian Church leaders and their hosts. Mark your calendar for a potluck dinner on September 14 from 6-8.  Bring a dish to pass and table service and come hear how the Spirit is moving amongst our brothers and sisters in Egypt.  (Questions: 724-376-2630 or TheOtherRevCreekpaum@gmail.com)

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

Outdoor Dance by Sanctuary Jazz Band

Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church Shelter – Saturday, August 12^th from 7 to 9 PM.  Snacks and beverages provided.  Monetary donations will be accepted for Ellwood City Food Bank.  Contact Cindy at 724-651-8160 for more information.

 

This Week:

August 10 – 10:00 AM Budget & Finance Committee, Presbytery Office
August 11- 11:00 AM MCS Committee, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
1:00 PM Sudan Team, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church
August 14- 3:00 PM Website-Building Workshop, New Wilmington Presbyterian Church

 

Website-Building Workshop

Don’t have a website?  Want a better one?  Let our evangelism team build you a site so potential visitors can easily find you.  Sunday, August 14^th from 3-5 PM at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  RSVP to Rev. Sean Hall at revseanhall@hillsidepresby.com or by calling 724-638-7381.  A reservation is requested but not required.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Highland (Aug 14), Jackson Center (Aug 21), and Word Centered (Aug 28). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org

 

Muska Baptism

Congratulations to Rev. Max Muska (Harlansburg, Rich Hill) and wife Heather on the baptism of their first child, Harper Rose, at Rich Hill church this past Sunday.

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

Egypt Mission Network Events

• There are plans to take a team to Egypt in the fall to build partnerships with the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. Dates are October 26 – November 3 (with potential for adding on tourist trips pre and post).  Registration by Sept. 16.  For more information, contact the presbytery office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.
• Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church (3461 Sandy Lake New Lebanon Road, Sandy Lake, PA) is hosting a dinner for 8 young Egyptian Church leaders and their hosts. Mark your calendar for a potluck dinner on September 14 from 6-8.  Bring a dish to pass and table service and come hear how the Spirit is moving amongst our brothers and sisters in Egypt.  (Questions: 724-376-2630 or TheOtherRevCreekpaum@gmail.com)

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

Outdoor Dance by Sanctuary Jazz Band

Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church Shelter – Saturday, August 12^th from 7 to 9 PM.  Snacks and beverages provided.  Monetary donations will be accepted for Ellwood City Food Bank.  Contact Cindy at 724-651-8160 for more information.

 

EP Activity This Month

Our Executive Presbyter, Ralph Hawkins, will be preaching at Rich Hill (Aug 7), Highland (Aug 14), Jackson Center (Aug 21), and Word Centered (Aug 28). Ralph welcomes opportunities to preach or bring greetings during a worship service, as well as opportunities to visit Session and Deacon meetings.   Schedule a Sunday or a meeting time by contacting him at 724-528-1610 or ralph@shenango.org

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

Cookie Sale

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare will hold a fund-raiser bake sale on Friday, August 5^th from 9 AM – 3 PM again this year to assist with the SeniorCare Fund, previously known as the benevolent fund, for our residents.   Donations of cookies are welcome and can be dropped off at SPSC the day before the sale in disposable containers suitable for display.

 

Second Annual Yard Sale

Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church Shelter – Saturday, August 6^th from 9 AM to 1 PM.  Multiple vendors and food counter.  Vendors welcome – Contact Kristin at 724-971-1508 to reserve a spot!

 

Outdoor Dance by Sanctuary Jazz Band

Wurtemburg Presbyterian Church Shelter – Saturday, August 12^th from 7 to 9 PM.  Snacks and beverages provided.  Monetary donations will be accepted for Ellwood City Food Bank.  Contact Cindy at 724-651-8160 for more information.

Sympathies

Our presbytery sympathies are extended to Rev. Paul Votaw, member of our presbytery serving Westfield ECO Presbyterian Church.  Paul’s mother died on July 19 and services were held in Illinois on July 23.

 

Cancelled: Remaining Programs at Camp Lambec

The Board of Directors of the Camping Association of the Presbyteries of Northwest Pennsylvania (CAPNWP) has serious issues at Camp Lambec. Effective Saturday, July 16th at noon, Camp Lambec is closed and all remaining programs for this summer are cancelled. The following programs will be affected by the closure: Family Camps A, B, C, and Owl Patrol.

This action is necessary because our interim camps manager received a “field order” from the PA Department of Environmental Protection notifying us of the presence of cryptosporidium in the water. Cryptosporidium is a common parasite that could cause stomach illness; the elderly and very young are more susceptible. We do not feel that we can safely operate under these conditions.

This decision was arrived at after prayerful discernment and examination of possible alternatives. Again, we feel that this is the safest and most feasible way to proceed. It is our intention to evaluate the requirements of the DEP and the needs of the camp and focus our attention on correcting the problems during the off season.  We covet your prayers during this difficult and challenging time.

In Christ,

Rev. Randall K. Clow
Volunteer Board Member and Vice President of Camp Lambec Ministries CAPNWP

 

New Castle Neighbors

Youth from our Clen-Moore and First New Castle churches combined forces with dozens of other youth from churches all around Lawrence County last week for “City Serve 2016” — three days of community service doing cleanup and repair for neighbors in need in New Castle.  The event was sponsored by Lawrence County Youth Ministries, directed by Brett Householder of First New Castle.

   

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

New Wilmington Mission Conference

July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College – register now! http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/register-now.  Join scholars, missionaries, and people with a heart for mission from around the world for one week in New Wilmington for worship, learning, service, and more.  There is nothing else like NWMC…you won’t want to miss it!

Click here for a list of speakers: http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/2016-speakers-worship

Click here to get the schedule for the week:  http://nwmcmission.org/about-us/daily-schedule

Click here to download a bulletin insert.  NWMC Bulletin Insert 2016

Click here to download a press release about NWMC.  NWMC 2016 Press Release

Note: Office Staff will be attending portions of NWMC.  If we aren’t at the office when you stop by, come join us on campus! 

 

Join Shenango Presbytery at a reception for missionaries supported by our congregations

There will be a reception at Judy Veon’s home (331 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington) on Thursday, July 28^th from 5 – 6:30 PM.  Join us for pizza and salad with the missionaries and Jan Dus (Diaconia).

 

News From the Churches

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

Cookie Sale

 

Shenango Presbyterian SeniorCare will hold a fund-raiser bake sale on Friday, August 5^th from 9 AM – 3 PM again this year to assist with the SeniorCare Fund, previously known as the benevolent fund, for our residents.   Donations of cookies are welcome and can be dropped off at SPSC the day before the sale in disposable containers suitable for display.

Sunday Mission Reception

Join Shenango Presbytery’s mission committee at a reception for some of the missionaries supported by our congregations.  New Wilmington Presbyterian Church Social Hall, Sunday, this Sunday from 4:30-6:30 PM.  A light dinner is provided and there will be time for interaction and conversation with:

• Egypt – Steve & Cinda Gorman
• Ethiopia – Brenda & Steve Stelle, Michael & Rachel Weller
• Niger – Michael & Rachel Ludwig
• South Sudan – Nancy McGaughey, Shelvis & Nancy Smith-Mather, Lynn & Sharon Kandel

Child care is provided.  Please RSVP to wlgwin@att.net for child care.

Immediately after our reception is the 6:45pm Conference Evening Meeting, featuring Dr. Scott Sunquist, formerly a mission professor at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

Come for both events!

South Sudanese Arrive

After more than a week of travel complications resulting from violence in the South Sudan capital of Juba, our Presbyterian South Sudanese partners have finally arrived in the United States.  Pictured below are Rev. Deng Bol Ataem, Madam Achol Majok, and Elder Daniel Keach with members of Pittsburgh Presbytery in Dulles Airport.  In a modified schedule, they will be visiting in Pittsburgh and Redstone presbyteries before coming to us in Shenango next week, during the New Wilmington Mission Conference.

– Hear them Monday night, July 25, 8:15pm during Conference Vespers on the Westminster College campus.

– Meet them at a reception at Judy Veon’s home in New Wilmington on Thursday, July 28, 5pm.

– Hear them at Bell Memorial church in Ellwood City, Sunday morning July 31.

Other opportunities will be announced as they become available.

We admire their patience and resilience in such a challenging time in their homeland.

Cancelled: Remaining Programs at Camp Lambec

The Board of Directors of the Camping Association of the Presbyteries of Northwest Pennsylvania (CAPNWP) has serious issues at Camp Lambec. Effective Saturday, July 16th at noon, Camp Lambec is closed and all remaining programs for this summer are cancelled. The following programs will be affected by the closure: Family Camps A, B, C, and Owl Patrol.

This action is necessary because our interim camps manager received a “field order” from the PA Department of Environmental Protection notifying us of the presence of cryptosporidium in the water. Cryptosporidium is a common parasite that could cause stomach illness; the elderly and very young are more susceptible. We do not feel that we can safely operate under these conditions.

This decision was arrived at after prayerful discernment and examination of possible alternatives. Again, we feel that this is the safest and most feasible way to proceed. It is our intention to evaluate the requirements of the DEP and the needs of the camp and focus our attention on correcting the problems during the off season.  We covet your prayers during this difficult and challenging time.

In Christ,

Rev. Randall K. Clow
Volunteer Board Member and Vice President of Camp Lambec Ministries CAPNWP

 

Summertime Worship

Like many congregations in our presbytery, Unity Presbyterian Church recently held worship outdoors in the beautify of God’s good creation.  Pictured here are Ray and Jane Bartholomew and pastor Jim Moose leading worship.

 

 

Fifth Annual Hearts & Minds Summer Lecture

Hearts & Minds, an independent bookstore in Dallastown PA, will once again host a public lecture in Pittsburgh, this year hosting religious scholar, social justice activist, and author Lisa Sharon Harper on July 26th at 7:00 pm. The fifth annual Hearts & Minds Pittsburgh Summer Lecture will be held at the Sewall Center at Robert Morris University and is free and open to the public.  The title of the lecture is “The Very Good Gospel: How Everything Wrong Can Be Made Right.”  It will be drawn from her recently released, highly-acclaimed book about how Biblically-based Christian spirituality can and should motivate people of faith to care about social  justice, racial reconciliation, and other contemporary issues, The Very Good Gospel: However Everything Wrong Can Be Made Right (Waterbrook/Random House; 2016.) After the lecture there will be a reception with the author, light refreshments and an opportunity for book signing.  Ms Harper is a nationally-known, well-respected Christian leader, who serves as the Church Liason for Sojourners, an ecumenical, faith-based social justice ministry and magazine in Washington DC.  This public lecture is free and open to the public and is underwritten by the Hearts & Minds Bookstore, Dallastown, PA.

 

Caregiver Support Program for Lawrence County Congregations

Jameson Hospice of Lawrence County will host “Help for the Helpers: Developing a Roadmap for Caregiving” on Thursday, July 21 from Noon to 4:00 PM at the Jameson Rehabilitation Center (3410 Wilmington Road, New Castle).  Learn about community resources that are available to assist you with caregiving needs.  Anyone in a Lawrence County congregation who provides care to loved ones – be it elderly parents, a child or family member with special needs, a spouse who has suffered an injury, or someone with a life-limiting illness – is invited to attend.  Register by calling 724-652-8847 by July 14^th.

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

 

New Wilmington Mission Conference

July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College – register now! http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/register-now.  Join scholars, missionaries, and people with a heart for mission from around the world for one week in New Wilmington for worship, learning, service, and more.  There is nothing else like NWMC…you won’t want to miss it!

Click here for a list of speakers: http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/2016-speakers-worship

Click here to get the schedule for the week:  http://nwmcmission.org/about-us/daily-schedule

Click here to download a bulletin insert.  NWMC Bulletin Insert 2016

Click here to download a press release about NWMC.  NWMC 2016 Press Release

Note: Office Staff will be attending portions of NWMC.  If we aren’t at the office when you stop by, come join us on campus! 

 

Join Shenango Presbytery at a reception for missionaries supported by our congregations

New Wilmington Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall on Sunday, July 24^th from 4:30-6:30 PM.  Come and hear what God is doing in:

• Egypt – Steve & Cinda Gorman
• Ethiopia – Brenda & Steve Stelle, Michael & Rachel Weller
• Niger – Michael & Rachel Ludwig
• South Sudan – Nancy McGaughey, Shelvis & Nancy Smith-Mather, Lynn & Sharon Kandel

Child care is provided.  Please RSVP to wlgwin@att.net for child care.

 

There will also be a reception at Judy Veon’s home (331 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington) on Thursday, July 28^th from 5 – 6:30 PM.  Join us for pizza and salad with the missionaries and Jan Dus (Diaconia).

 

Children’s Water Toys Needed

New Wilmington Mission Conference is trying to set up activities for young kids during the afternoons of the conference.  We are looking for some water toys for young kids (ages 5 and under) to be set up for some simple family fun.  We have a small blow up slide into a pool, a baby pool, and a water table already, but would welcome duplicates or any additional loaners for the project.  Please contact Rev. Beth Creekpaum of the Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church at 724-977-3013 or theotherrevcreekpaum@gmail.com if you have anything that would fit this category.  Many thanks!

 

Pillows Needed

The New Wilmington Mission Conference is in need of gently used standard-sized pillows for out of town and international guests.  If you have some pillows that you would like to donate to NWMC, please bring them to the conference office in New Wilmington Presbyterian Church or contact the office at office@nwmcmission.org as soon as possible.

 

Industrial Fans

The New Wilmington Mission Conference is hoping to borrow some large but portable industrial fans for use in cooling off some of the larger meeting spaces that are not otherwise air conditioned.  If you or your congregation has one or more they could borrow for the week of July 23-30, please contact their office at office@nwmcmission.orgor 724-946-9770.

 

News From the Churches

Piano

Small baby grand – as is – free for hauling…Calvin Presbyterian Church, 615 Crescent Avenue, Ellwood City, PA.   Call 724-758-4258 Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM.

 

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.

 

Sudanese Visitors

Due to an outbreak of violence in recent days in the capital of South Sudan, Juba, the three South Sudanese Presbyterians we were set to host this week here in our presbytery could not travel.  The airport in Juba was closed due to the harsh conflicts.  Here is an excellent summary of the situation from our Presbyterian News Service.  Note that many of our Shenango congregations support Leisa Wagstaff, featured in that article.  As of today, the situation in Juba has stabilized a bit.  Our Sudan Team, chaired by Denise Sciuto,  is hopeful that our partners will still be able to travel later in the week.  We will keep you posted through eLink about opportunities to meet them if in fact they can still make the trip.  Continue to pray both for the nation of South Sudan and for our Presbyterian sisters and brothers in that place.  — Ralph Hawkins

 

Moderators Installed

At our June 28 stated meeting in New Castle, we installed our new Moderator and Vice Moderator: Rev. Chris Weichman (Clen-Moore) and Elder Andrea Hall (Hillside), respectively.  They will conduct all our meetings, candidate ordinations, and pastor installation for the twelve months.  Thank you Chris and Andrea for your service among us this year.

 

Planning Calendars

The planning calendar orders have arrived and can be picked up at the Presbytery office at your convenience.  We’re still holding calendars for: Moravia and 3^rd New Castle.  Bills have been mailed to the churches, for those who had not already paid.  We have 2 additional calendars available for individual sale at $9.50 each.

 

Fifth Annual Hearts & Minds Summer Lecture

Hearts & Minds, an independent bookstore in Dallastown PA, will once again host a public lecture in Pittsburgh, this year hosting religious scholar, social justice activist, and author Lisa Sharon Harper on July 26th at 7:00 pm. The fifth annual Hearts & Minds Pittsburgh Summer Lecture will be held at the Sewall Center at Robert Morris University and is free and open to the public.  The title of the lecture is “The Very Good Gospel: How Everything Wrong Can Be Made Right.”  It will be drawn from her recently released, highly-acclaimed book about how Biblically-based Christian spirituality can and should motivate people of faith to care about social  justice, racial reconciliation, and other contemporary issues, The Very Good Gospel: However Everything Wrong Can Be Made Right (Waterbrook/Random House; 2016.) After the lecture there will be a reception with the author, light refreshments and an opportunity for book signing.  Ms Harper is a nationally-known, well-respected Christian leader, who serves as the Church Liason for Sojourners, an ecumenical, faith-based social justice ministry and magazine in Washington DC.  This public lecture is free and open to the public and is underwritten by the Hearts & Minds Bookstore, Dallastown, PA.

 

Caregiver Support Program for Lawrence County Congregations

Jameson Hospice of Lawrence County will host “Help for the Helpers: Developing a Roadmap for Caregiving” on Thursday, July 21 from Noon to 4:00 PM at the Jameson Rehabilitation Center (3410 Wilmington Road, New Castle).  Learn about community resources that are available to assist you with caregiving needs.  Anyone in a Lawrence County congregation who provides care to loved ones – be it elderly parents, a child or family member with special needs, a spouse who has suffered an injury, or someone with a life-limiting illness – is invited to attend.  Register by calling 724-652-8847 by July 14^th.

 

Cooking With a Mission

You are invited to join a five-week course in gastronomic delights starting Monday, September 19^th and running each Monday through October 17^th from 5;30 – 8:30 PM at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Mercer.  This hands-on class will feature a full array of menu items and tasting each evening led by instructor, local chef Mark Arnold.  The cost of $200 per person will go to support the mission work sponsored by Shenango Presbytery, and it is hoped we will that a “guest chef” or two from among the missionaries our presbytery supports.  Class size is limited, so contact the Presbytery office for a registration form.  Questions, call Don Stanley at 724-308-7251.

 

Register for the Fall Pastor Retreat

Reading Poetry for Spiritual Formation and Pastoral Leadership, October 3-4, 2016 at Villa Maria Conference Center with Dr. Richard Haney (Executive Director of Presbyterian Frontier Fellowship).  Click here to register: https://shenango.org/committees-groups/pastor-retreat-registration/

 

New Wilmington Mission Conference

July 23-30, 2016 on the campus of Westminster College – register now! http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/register-now.  Join scholars, missionaries, and people with a heart for mission from around the world for one week in New Wilmington for worship, learning, service, and more.  There is nothing else like NWMC…you won’t want to miss it!

Click here for a list of speakers: http://nwmcmission.org/nwmc-2016/2016-speakers-worship

Click here to get the schedule for the week:  http://nwmcmission.org/about-us/daily-schedule

Click here to download a bulletin insert.  NWMC Bulletin Insert 2016

Click here to download a press release about NWMC.  NWMC 2016 Press Release

 

Reception for Missionaries

Shenango Presbytery will host a reception for the missionaries that our churches support on Sunday, July 24^th at 4:00 PM at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church.  All are invited!

 

Children’s Water Toys Needed

New Wilmington Mission Conference is trying to set up activities for young kids during the afternoons of the conference.  We are looking for some water toys for young kids (ages 5 and under) to be set up for some simple family fun.  We have a small blow up slide into a pool, a baby pool, and a water table already, but would welcome duplicates or any additional loaners for the project.  Please contact Rev. Beth Creekpaum of the Sandy Lake Presbyterian Church at 724-977-3013 or theotherrevcreekpaum@gmail.com if you have anything that would fit this category.  Many thanks!

 

Pillows Needed

The New Wilmington Mission Conference is in need of gently used standard-sized pillows for out of town and international guests.  If you have some pillows that you would like to donate to NWMC, please bring them to the conference office in New Wilmington Presbyterian Church or contact the office at office@nwmcmission.org as soon as possible.

 

Industrial Fans

The New Wilmington Mission Conference is hoping to borrow some large but portable industrial fans for use in cooling off some of the larger meeting spaces that are not otherwise air conditioned.  If you or your congregation has one or more they could borrow for the week of July 23-30, please contact their office at office@nwmcmission.org or 724-946-9770.

 

News From the Churches

Piano

Small baby grand – as is – free for hauling…Calvin Presbyterian Church, 615 Crescent Avenue, Ellwood City, PA.   Call 724-758-4258 Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday from 9 AM to 12 PM.

 

Wanted

Organist and/or pianist.  Neshannock Presbyterian Church, New Wilmington, PA.  One Sunday service per week.  One choir rehearsal per week in season.  Pay commensurate with experience.  Reply to Neshannock Presbyterian Church at 724-946-2081 or emailadmin@neshpresby.org.