Presbytery
of the James
February 13, 2007
Dear Members and Friends of the Presbytery of the James:
I wanted to write and express my appreciation for a good meeting this past Saturday. Attached to this letter is the RECAP which reviews the actions of the presbytery.
We made some significant decisions concerning future location of the presbytery office; Amendments to the Book of Order; and our participation in Mission Challenge ’07 with a missionary speaking as an Order of the Day at the October meeting.
I wanted to make sure that everyone is aware of the status of the October, 2006, Overture from New Hanover Church concerning ordination standards. That Overture was referred to Committee on Ministry and Committee on Preparation for Ministry. Both Committees are reviewing the Overture and anticipate an answer to the June meeting of presbytery.
COM has been reviewing and revising their examination procedures which have always been in accord with the Constitution of the PCUSA. However, procedures and policies are always in need of updating and clarification. No major changes have occurred in these procedures. I anticipate that they will be shared with the Presbytery at the June meeting. Also, I anticipate an answer to the Overture from New Hanover Church at the June, 2007, meeting.
We live in difficult times in our denomination and in our world. I am grateful for the civil ways in which we do our business as a Presbytery. It is my personal goal to keep communication and information open and freely shared. As Moderator Johns indicated this past meeting, she requested that “surprises be kept at a minimum!” I believe we do that in this Presbytery and have a good sense of trust and openness in our bounds.
I remind you, again, for the Moderator’s Conference this coming Sunday at Brandermill Church where Rev. Cliff Kirkpatrick, Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church (USA) will be out keynote speaker. It will be a good time to learn firsthand of the ‘temperature and climate” of the PCUSA. Don’t miss it. Check our website for last minute registrations.
Peace and joy to each of you in the work of Christ,
H.
Carson Rhyne, Jr.
General Presbyter and Stated Clerk