Shenango Presbytery News

eLink EXTRA - August 28, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:20:00 +0000

First Come, First Serve!
Rev. Yousif Matar Kodi, from Sudan, is coming as an International Peacemaker to Shenango Presbytery. He will be with us from October 3rd to October 6th and is currently available to come to your church on Friday, October 3rd. Rev. Kodi is from the Nuba Mountains and studied at the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo, Egypt. He pastors a church in North Khartoum and teaches at Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church Bible School. Please call Rev. Jim Mohr (724-946-7116) at Westminster College, to check availability and reserve times.

Equipping Pastors
Thanks to a special grant from the Board of Pensions the presbyteries of western PA have scheduled a series of 4 retreats and several 90 minute seminars for pastors during the next year. Please visit the new Equipping Pastors page of our website at http://www.shenango.org/News/epe.htm for more information on these events. They are specifically desinged for first-call pastors, but all pastors, CLPS, and those preparing for the minsitry are welcome. Take a look at the topics and if you see one that interests you, please join us.

eLink News - August 26, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:34:00 +0000

This Week:
August 29 - 12:00 PM MISSIONAL PASTORS LUNCH, Presbytery Office
September 1 - OFFICE CLOSED, Labor Day
September 2- 9:30 AM COUNCIL, Oak Grove Presbyterian Church
September 3- 9:30 AM CHURCH & COMMUNITY COMMITTEE, Presbytery Office

Steve's Sermon online
Last week's eLink noted the anniversary celebration at Faith Presbytery Church and menitoned that Steve Stelle's sermon would be online this week. It can be found on our News page at http://www.shenango.org/News/index.htm.

PFR Regional Gathering to Discuss GA

Sunday, September 7, 2008 at East Main Churh, Grove City

Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, http://www.pfrenewal.org will offer a time of worship and prayer along with opportunities to ask questions about the actions of the General Assembly and next steps. There will be a soup supper at 6:00 PM (donations received). Reservations needed by August 29. Please contact the Presbytery Office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.

Stewardship Story and Resources
Wampum Presbyterian Church did the Consecration Sunday stewardship program last year. At that time the chruch was $1,500 behind budget. This year they are $1,000 ahead. For more information on Consecration Sunday contact Debbie Forsberg at the Resource Center.

Also, please take a look at the recent issue of The Presbyterian Outlook http://www.pres-outlook.com/reports-a-resources.html for five excellent articles on stewardship by Dave Crittenden (2), Karl Travis, Bob Sheldon and Rolfe Grannath.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

Considering a D.Min.?
The Center for Parish Development is holding a workshop in Pittsburgh on September 10 on a D.Min. program for those interested in misisonal church efforts. Further information is available on the News page of our website at http://www.shenango.org/News/index.htm.

Expert on Islam at PTS
Dr. Dudley Woodbury, one of the world's top experts on Islam and retired Fuller Seminary professor, will present the McClure Lectures at Pittsburgh Seminary on September 29-30. Some folks from Shenango Presbytery will be attending. Contact Glenn Hink (724-981-2211) for ride-sharing. For more information, http://www.pts.edu/conted9.html#27.

Kang Na Published in These Days
Dr. Kang Na, Westminster College, has written several articles for the July-August-September issue of the popular devotional magazine These Days.

David M. Bailey in concert
The Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church of Sharon and UPMC are passionate about sponsoring and presenting David M. Bailey to the community. The "concert of hope" is FREE and a freewill offering will be collected with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and the UPMC Horizon Oncology Patient Care Fund. See David in concert Tuesday, September 16 at First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and Wednesday, September 17 at St. Michael Church in Greenville. Both shows start at 7 PM. Come and listen to this songwriter and join in the celebration of hope!

NWMC Videoas/Podcasts Available
We invite people to view the videos/podcasts of the 2008 Conference speakers including Rodger Nishioka, Dr. Ken Bailey, Rev. Hunter Farrell, Dr. Edith Humphrey, International Justice Mission, Global Worship with Corey Nelson and others, http://www.NWMCmission.org.

Root International Fundraiser
Root International will be having it's first fundraiser starting September 1st. For a contribution of $5.00 (the full amount will go to Root International projects) a ticket you will be able to receive discounts and sign up for prizes for the "Shop for a Cause" day sponsored by Macy's Department Store. Tickets can be used only on September 20th at any Macy's store nationwide. Board members will be contacting the churches in the Presbytery. For more information or to acquire a ticket, call Vicki Narlee 724-662-4288. This will be an opportunity for you to get some great discounts and shop for a worthy cause. We appreciate your participation. Root International addresses the needs of entities trying to serve their communities with limited resources, in the form of benevolence, educational opportunity and partnership, so that they can strengthen and support each other.

Do you have this book?
Angel De La Cruz is looking for a copy of Karl Barth's Church Dogmatics. Contact Angel at 724-699-5675.

Teacher Training Offered
Would you like to have a teacher-training program tailored to the needs of yoru particular Sunday School? Margaret Trautman, volunteer staff person in Christian Education for our Presbytery, is available to lead such programs. Margaret is a retired teacher and administrator who is certified as a Christian Educator and can do workshops on topics such as preparing to teach, how to use resources, adapting curriculum to meet a church's needs, ways to make the learning more exciting and memorable, and many others. You can reach her at the Presbytery office, 724-528-1610 or Monday-Wednesday mornings or at home at 724-533-5851 the rest of the time. If you want to e-mail her at the office, it is ched@shenango.org or at home, it is mardave3@comcast.net.

eLink News - August 19, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:56:00 +0000

This Week:
August 19- 7:00 PM Presbytery Meeting, Leesburg Presbyterian Church
August 22- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry Committee, Presbytery Office
August 26- 9:00 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office

Special Meeting of Presbytery - August 19, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Leesburg Presbyterian Church
The business to be discussed:
- Examine a candidate for ordination
- Approve call of same candidate to the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church.
- Approve installation commission for new pastor to First Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville.

Faith Church Celebration
Faith Church celebrated the 10th anniversary of Steve Stelle's pastorate and the 25th anniversary of his ordination. Faith has been the fastest growing church in the Presbytery during the past 10 years. Demographics is helpful (Hermitage is one of the few places with a growing population), but population alone does not make a church grow. Faithful leadership by pastor and elders has been important. Steve's sermon on Sunday was a helpful reflection on Faith's past 10 years - we will be posting it on the Presbytery website next week.

Stewardship Story and Resources
Wampum Presbyterian Church did the Consecration Sunday stewardship program last year. At that time the chruch was $1,500 behind budget. This year they are $1,000 ahead. For more information on Consecration Sunday contact Debbie Forsberg at the Resource Center.

Also, please take a look at the recent issue of The Presbyterian Outlook http://www.pres-outlook.com/reports-a-resources.html for five excellent articles on stewardship by Dave Crittenden (2), Karl Travis, Bob Sheldon and Rolfe Grannath.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

Event after General Assembly
Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, http://www.pfrenewal.org will be leading our Pastor's Retreat on September 8-9. He will also speak on Sunday evening, September 7, at East Main Church in Grove City. There will be a soup supper at 6:00 PM (donations received). Reservations needed by August 29. Please contact the Presbytery Office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.

Bethel Church Celebrating 210 Years
Bethel U.P. Church of Enon Valley will be celebrating 210 years of serving the Lord. They are offering a church replica as part of the celebration. It can be seen on http://www.bethelupchurch.org. The cost is $12.00, if picking up at the Oct. 11,12 celebration weekend. If mailed, the cost will be $12.00 plus $3.00. Orders may be mailed to the church and checks made payable to Bethel U.P. Church. On the memo please write replica. It will be a weekend of renewing friendships, sharing memories, having a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, and viewing many church historial memorabilia including a 1775 Certificate of Transfer of John Lecky. And who is John? Come and find out on Oct. 11 & 12. Stay tuned for more information to come as the date gets closer.

David M. Bailey in concert
The Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church of Sharon and UPMC are passionate about sponsoring and presenting David M. Bailey to the community. The "concert of hope" is FREE and a freewill offering will be collected with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and the UPMC Horizon Oncology Patient Care Fund. See David in concert Tuesday, September 16 at First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and Wednesday, September 17 at St. Michael Church in Greenville. Both shows start at 7 PM. Come and listen to this songwriter and join in the celebration of hope!Seeking OrganistTower Presbyterian Church in Grove City is still seeking an organist. Details are available on the Presbytery web site at http://www.shenango.org/News/jobs.htm.

Do you have this book?
Angel De La Cruz is looking for a copy of Karl Barth's Church Dogmatics. Contact Angel at 724-699-5675.

eLink News - August 13, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:04:00 +0000

This Week:
August 19- 7:00 PM Presbytery Meeting, Leesburg Presbyterian Church

Special Meeting of Presbytery - August 19, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Leesburg Presbyterian Church
The business to be discussed:
- Examine a candidate for ordination
- Approve call of same candidate to the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church.
- Approve installation commission for new pastor to First Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

Event after General Assembly
Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, http://www.pfrenewal.org will be leading our Pastor's Retreat on September 8-9. He will also speak on Sunday evening, September 7, at East Main Church in Grove City. There will be a soup supper at 6:00 PM (donations received). Reservations needed by August 29. Please contact the Presbytery Office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.

Bethel Church Celebrating 210 Years
Bethel U.P. Church of Enon Valley will be celebrating 210 years of serving the Lord. They are offering a church replica as part of the celebration. It can be seen on http://www.bethelupchurch.org. The cost is $12.00, if picking up at the Oct. 11,12 celebration weekend. If mailed, the cost will be $12.00 plus $3.00. Orders may be mailed to the church and checks made payable to Bethel U.P. Church. On the memo please write replica. It will be a weekend of renewing friendships, sharing memories, having a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, and viewing many church historial memorabilia including a 1775 Certificate of Transfer of John Lecky. And who is John? Come and find out on Oct. 11 & 12. Stay tuned for more information to come as the date gets closer.

David M. Bailey in concert
The Presbyterian Women of First Presbyterian Church of Sharon and UPMC are passionate about sponsoring and presenting David M. Bailey to the community. The "concert of hope" is FREE and a freewill offering will be collected with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society and the UPMC Horizon Oncology Patient Care Fund. See David in concert Tuesday, September 16 at First Presbyterian Church in Sharon and Wednesday, September 17 at St. Michael Church in Greenville. Both shows start at 7 PM. Come and listen to this songwriter and join in the celebration of hope!

Seeking Organist
Tower Presbyterian Church in Grove City is still seeking an organist. Details are available on the Presbytery web site at http://www.shenango.org/News/jobs.htm.

eLink News - August 5, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 18:02:00 +0000

This Week:
No scheduled meetings this week.

Special Meeting of Presbytery - August 19, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Leesburg Presbyterian Church
The business to be discussed:
- Examine a candidate for ordination
- Approve call of same candidate to the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church.
- Approve installation commission for new pastor to First Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

You are Invited
Come and celebrate the 50th Birthday of Westminster Highlands on Saturday, August 9th with "Adventure Fest". There will be free and fun activities for all ages at the camp from 10 AM until 5 PM including hiking, campfire songs, camp photos and videos, and zip line rides. No reservations required - rain or shine.

Register for the Pastor's Retreat - 1 week left!
Registrations are due this coming Monday, August 11th for the upcoming Pastor's Retreat - September 8-9 with Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, at the Villa Maria Retreat Center. Costs are $40 for commuters and $75 for those needing lodging. Forms can be found in the July Presbytery packet, online by clicking the link at the bottom of our homepage (hover over the photo of Villa Maria and the link will appear below) or you may e-mail the information to Autumn at office@shenango.org.

Thank You!
to all who sang in the choir for the Bicentennial Service. There were 10 churches represented. It was wonderful to have voices to sing an anthem for the celebration. - Jane Bartholomew

Special Event after General Assembly
Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, http://www.pfrenewal.org will be leading our Pastor's Retreat on September 8-9. He will also speak on Sunday evening, September 7, at East Main Church in Grove City. There will be a soup supper at 6:00 PM (donations received). Reservations needed by August 29. Please contact the Presbytery Office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.

If You Are Under 50...If You Are Over 50
The Board of Pensions offers a financial health seminar entitled "Render Unto Caesar" for those under 50 (September 10) and a Retirement Planning Seminar (September 11-12) if you are over 50. Both of these events are in Bedford, PA. For details, http://www.pensions.org and click on "Educational Resources".

Seeking Organist
Tower Presbyterian Church in Grove City is still seeking an organist. Details are available on the Presbytery web site at http://www.shenango.org/News/jobs.htm.

Official Call to the Special Meeting of Shenango Presbytery - August 19, 2008 at 7:00 PM, Leesburg Presbyterian Church

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:44:00 +0000

Special Notice of Official Meeting of Presbytery – August 19, 2008 at 7:00 PM at Leesburg Presbyterian Church.

The business to be discussed:

Examine a candidate for ordination
Approve call of same candidate to the Ebenezer Presbyterian Church.
Approve installation commission for new pastor to First Presbyterian Church of Sharpsville.

eLink News - July 30, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:44:00 +0000

This Week:
No scheduled meetings this week.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

You are Invited
Come and celebrate the 50th Birthday of Westminster Highlands on Saturday, August 9th with "Adventure Fest". There will be free and fun activities for all ages at the camp from 10 AM until 5 PM including hiking, campfire songs, camp photos and videos, and zip line rides. No reservations required - rain or shine.

Register for the Pastor's Retreat
Registrations are due on August 11th for the upcoming Pastor's Retreat - September 8-9 with Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, at the Villa Maria Retreat Center. Costs are $40 for commuters and $75 for those needing lodging. Forms can be found in the July Presbytery packet, online by clicking the link at the bottom of our homepage (hover over the photo of Villa Maria and the link will appear below) or you may e-mail the information to Autumn at office@shenango.org.

Special Event after General Assembly
Paul Detterman, Director of Presbyterians for Renewal, http://www.pfrenewal.org will be leading our Pastor's Retreat on September 8-9. He will also speak on Sunday evening, September 7, at East Main Church in Grove City. There will be a soup supper at 6:00 PM (donations received). Reservations needed by August 29. Please contact the Presbytery Office at 724-528-1610 or office@shenango.org.

Mission Opportunity in Egypt
There are a lot of exciting developments in the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. A group under the leadership of Jim Mohr visited Cairo Seminary in January and returned quite excited to see what God is doing there. One particular ministry that may be of interest to your mission committee is the Salam Clinic in Cairo. You can learn about it at http://www.smcegypt.org. Dr. Freddy Elbaiady, Director, will be visiting in the Pittsburgh area in September. For more details on his schedule contact Rev. Karl McDonald (who was on the Cairo trip with Shenango pastors) from Ken Mawr Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh kenmawrchurch@msn.com.

FREE Tables
Center Presbyterian Church in Grove City is looking for a home for 12-15 8-foot folding tables. If your church is interested, please contact Doug Wick at 724-615-1437.

Seeking Organist
Tower Presbyterian Church in Grove City is still seeking an organist. Details are available on the Presbytery web site at http://www.shenango.org/News/jobs.htm.

eLink News - July 22, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 18:38:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
July 19-26 - New Wilmington Mission Conference (get the schedule here)
July 28- 7:00 PM Leadership Development Team, Presbytery Office

Note: The staff will be attending portions of the New Wilmington Mission Conference this week - we invite you to join us there!

Prayers
Pam Maloney's (Associate, 1st Sharon) mother-in-law passed away last night. Please keep the Maloney family in your prayers.

Bicentennial Worship Service
You are invited to attend the Worship Service for the Bicentennial Celebration (dinner reservations are now closed) of Shenango Presbytery at 7:00 PM on Sunday, July 27th at Anderson Auditorium on the Westminster College Campus. Communion will be celebrated as part of the service.

Serving on General Assembly Committee
Kang Na (professor at Westminster College) has been serving on the General Assembly Cooperative Exam Committee. This committee oversees the standard exams given to those preparing for ordination. Angel de la Cruz (Word Centered Fellowship) was also elected to that committee at the recent General Assembly in San Jose.

If you would like to become an exam reader (ministers and elders welcome), please contact Kang Na at kangna@comcast.net.

If you are Under 50...If you are Over 50
The Board of Pensions offers a financial health seminar entitled "Render Unto Caesar" for those under 50 (September 10) and a Retirement Planning Seminar (September 11-12) if you are over 50. Both of these events are in Bedford, PA. For details, go to http://www.pensions.org and click on "Educational Resources".

"Mission in Darfur"
As Lee Watenpaugh was preparing to depart Sudan’s Darfur region in late 2006, he received an astonishing request from a Muslim village sheik. The sheik asked the Presbyterian elder from Virginia to send teachers to start a school and to help people learn more about Jesus." Read the entire article at http://www.pcusa.org/pcnews/2008/08482.htm.

Teacher Training Workshop
"We Will Tell the Next Generation", the 25th Annual Teacher Training Workshop presented by Pittsburgh Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2008 from 8:30 AM until 3:00 PM. The Featured Keynote Speaker will be Cynthia L. Rigby (recent pastor's retreat leader), the WC Brown Professor of Theology at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Christian Education Commitee of Shenango Presbytery is planning to take a van to this event - if you would like to ride along please contact Margaret Trautman at ched@shenango.org.

Mission Opportunity in Egypt
There are a lot of exciting developments in the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. A group under the leadership of Jim Mohr visited Cairo Seminary in January and returned quite excited to see what God is doing there. One particular ministry that may be of interest to your mission committee is the Salam Clinic in Cairo. You can learn about it at http://www.smcegypt.org. Dr. Freddy Elbaiady, Director, will be visiting in the Pittsburgh area in September. For more details on his schedule contact Rev. Karl McDonald (who was on the Cairo trip with Shenango pastors) from Ken Mawr Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh kenmawrchurch@msn.com.

FREE Tables
Center Presbyterian Church in Grove City is looking for a home for 12-15 8-foot folding tables. If your church is interested, please contact Doug Wick at 724-615-1437.

eLink EXTRA - July 18, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:58:00 +0000

Prayers
Terry Greenlee's (Jackson Center / Millbrook) wife Chris has surgery on her neck this morning at Grove City Medical Center. She is doing well.

eLink EXTRA - Updated Itinerary for Sudanese Pastors

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:31:00 +0000

Our Sudanese friends, Rev. Philip and Rev. Barnaba, arrive today and will be in Shenango Presbytery until the end of the month. Below is their itinerary. For more information and photos check http://www.shenango.org/News/index.htm.

Itinerary for Philip and Barnaba
July 10th – Aug. 2nd, 2008

Wednesday, July 16th -
5:30 – Picnic at Amy and Jesse Ligo’s farm, Bethany Church, Mercer
8:00 PM – a campfire fellowship at Jesse & Amy Ligo’s farm.
Thursday, July 17th -
7:00 PM @ First Presbyterian Church of Sharon – A dessert
fellowship with discussion and program to follow.
Friday, July 18th –
2:30 New Wilmington Mission Conference orientation for speakers at Westminster College
6:00 PM First Presbyterian Church of Greenville – Dinner with program following at 7:00pm.
Saturday, July 19th –
Saturday AM – New Wilmington Mission Conference Day of Prayer
Sunday, July 20th -
10:00 AM Worship - Rev. Philip Akway Obang at First Presbyterian Church of New Castle.
8:30 and 11:00 AM worship - Rev. Barnaba Abbass Tia at Bethel Presbyterian Church in Enon Valley.
3:00 pm Open reception on Shenango on the Green’s patio in New Wilmington.
6:45 Speak at Adult Vespers – McKelvey Center, Mueller Theater
Monday, July 21 - at New Wilmington Mission Conference
Tuesday, July 22 - at New Wilmington Mission Conference
3:30 pm – 4:45 lead afternoon workshop at McKelvey Center, Mueller Theater
Wednesday, July 23rd -
9: 45 am – meet with Senior High students in the Witherspoon room at the McKelvey Center
8:30 – 5pm Partnership meeting with Redstone and Shenango Presbyteries
Thursday, July 24th - at the New Wilmington Mission Conference.
9:45 am – meet with Senior High students in the Witherspoon room at the McKelvey Center.
1:00 Meeting regarding SPEC’s mission to Darfur
Friday, July 25th -
9:45 am – meet with Senior High students in the Witherspoon room at the McKelvey Center
10:30 am – leave weekend with Presbyterian churches in Washington, DC
Monday, July 28th – return to Shenango Presbytery. Staying at home of Miriam and Bill Gwin.
Tuesday, July 29th -
9:30 AM into the early afternoon – Calvin Church in Ellwood City with a salad lunch.
Wednesday, July 30th –
6:00pm a picnic at the home of Bill & Miriam Gwin with a program at 7:00 PM to follow
Thursday, July 31st
Friday, August 1st Our guests head back home.

eLink News - July 15, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 17:53:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
July 16- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office
July 19-26 - New Wilmington Mission Conference (get the schedule here)
July 20- 4:00 PM CLP Picnic, the McGary farm

Note: The staff will be attending portions of the New Wilmington Mission Conference next week - we invite you to join us there!

Prayers
Please remember in prayer Bill and Alice Knechtel (Lebanon Church) who lost their baby son William James just before birth last week.

Anniversary
Tower Presbyterian Church celebrated John Culp's 10th ordination anniversary this past Sunday (July 13).

There will be a memorial service
in thanksgiving for the life and witness of Dorothea Meloy on Saturday, July 19, 4:30 PM at Neshannock Church (New Wilmington). Dorothea who died on March 1, 2008, was a beloved member of Neshannock Church who served in mission work from 1946-1986 in Egypt, Sudan, Lebanon, Iran and Pakistan. Members of Dorothea's family will be present for the service of remembrance and thanksgiving.

Serving on General Assembly Committee
Kang Na (professor at Westminster College) has been serving on the General Assembly Cooperative Exam Committee. This committee oversees the standard exams given to those preparing for ordination. Angel de la Cruz (Word Centered Fellowship) was also elected to that committee at the recent General Assembly in San Jose.

If you are Under 50...If you are Over 50
The Board of Pensions offers a financial health seminar entitled "Render Unto Caesar" for those under 50 (September 10) and a Retirement Planning Seminar (September 11-12) if you are over 50. Both of these events are in Bedford, PA. For details, go to http://www.pensions.org and click on "Educational Resources".

Mission in Darfur
"As Lee Watenpaugh was preparing to depart Sudan’s Darfur region in late 2006, he received an astonishing request from a Muslim village sheik. The sheik asked the Presbyterian elder from Virginia to send teachers to start a school and to help people learn more about Jesus." Read the entire article at http://www.pcusa.org/pcnews/2008/08482.htm. Lee will be speaking with a small group at NWMC next week (Thursday at 1 PM). If you would like to be included in this discussion, please contact the Presbytery office by Friday.

Mission Opportunity in Egypt
There are a lot of exciting developments in the Presbyterian Church in Egypt. A group under the leadership of Jim Mohr visited Cairo Seminary in January and returned quite excited to see what God is doing there. One particular ministry that may be of interest to your mission committee is the Salam Clinic in Cairo. You can learn about it at http://www.smcegypt.org. Dr. Freddy Elbaiady, Director, will be visiting in the Pittsburgh area in September. For more details on his schedule contact Rev. Karl McDonald (who was on the Cairo trip with Shenango pastors) from Ken Mawr Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh kenmawrchurch@msn.com.

Tower Presbyterian Church, Grove City seeks Organist
See the full job description and contact information on our "Help Wanted" page (available under "Quick Links" on our home page.)

VBS at Unity
"God's Big Backyard" at Unity Presbyterian Church, 1857 Mercer-West Middlesex Road will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM Sunday, July 20 thru Thursday, July 24. Ages 3 years old thru 6th grade are welcome. For registration information contact Lixlee Schroyer at 724-342-2356.

eLink News - July 8, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 18:03:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
July 14- 7:00 PM GA Follow-up Discussion, East Main (See note below)
July 16- 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office

Prayers
- Barry Almy's mother passed away last Thursday.

Page Missing from Presbytery Packet - on Web
"An Invitation to Expanding Partnership in God's Mission" was originally a 3-page document - only the 1st and 3rd pages appeared in the packet last Tuesday. The entire document is available on the "News & Events" page of the Presbytery web site as a PDF.

GA Discussions - You are invited to participate
Glenn Hink and Bill Hoffman will be hosting those interested in a follow-up time to pray about and discuss the recently concluded General Assembly and its implications for our churches and ministries at East Main Church in Grove City on Monday, July 14, 7-8:30 PM.

Energy Audit Links
There is an energy audit online at www.thedailygreen.com. If you click on "Green Homes", then "DIY Home Energy Audit" and that page also has a link to a web-based do-it-yourself energy audit tool at http://hes.lbl.gov. There is also a group called Interfaith Power and Light that has organizations in each state (PA hasn't started one yet) that helps religious and non-profit organizations with energy and conservation issues. They have a store at www.shopipl.org that offers energy supplies (bulbs, etc.) at "deeply discounted" prices for churches.

Award Given to Bill and Lois Anderson at the 218th General Assembly
The Rev. Hunter Farrell, director of World Mission, presented the Bell-Mackay Prize to Bill Anderson. Anderson and his late wife Lois spent 49 years in African-based mission service. As a result of their ministry, the Nile Theological College in Khartoum, Sudan, is now the first high-level Protestant theological institution in that country. Accepting the award, Anderson encouraged those gathered to “do your work and expect the Holy Spirit.” Read the full story here.

Important Opportunity
At 4:00 PM on Sunday, July 13 Ralph Hawkins will be installed as pastor of the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church. That is an important event in itself, but it is also wonderful to hear a sermon by Dr. Darrell Guder, Dean of Princeton Theological Seminary. Darrell is probably the most important voice in "missional church" thinking about which several of our churches have been learning. For more information on Darrell click here: http://www.ptsem.edu/Academics/departments/RS/Docs/CVs/Guder_cv.pdf.

Donate Used Materials
Churches can donate their used VBS and Sunday School curriculum to the Kayenta Presbyterian Church in Arizona. Materials can be brought to the Fall Gathering of Presbyterian Women on October 18th at Faith Presbyterian Church.

First Presbyterian Church, New Castle seeks Nursery Director
See the full job description and contact information on our "Help Wanted" page (available under "Quick Links" on our home page.)

Tower Presbyterian Church, Grove City seeks Organist
See the full job description and contact information on our "Help Wanted" page (available under "Quick Links" on our home page.)

eLink News - July 2, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:32:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
July 4- Office Closed for Independence Day

Links not working?
We're still working on the problem of "blocked" links in our email feed. If you receive an error message or "Page not found" message when clicking on a link in this email, please visit our homepage, scroll down to the "Shenango Presbytery News" box on the right-hand side and click the link that reads "Click here to read our Shenango Presbytery News Blog". The links work from our original blog, just not the email feed.

Page Missing from Presbytery Packet
"An Invitation to Expanding Partnership in God's Mission" was originally a 3-page document - only the 1st and 3rd pages appeared in the packet last evening. We will be posting the missing 2nd page on the Presbytery web page in the coming days. (We are awaiting a copy of the original document.)

IRS Mileage Increase
The IRS rate for mileage reimbursement will increase on July 1st to 58.5 cents per mile. This rate will be good through December of 2008.

Shenango Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration
July 27, 2008 in Anderson Auditorium at Westminster College. The day will include a dinner served at the back of the auditorium at 5:00 PM ($10.00 adults, ages 5-12 $5.00, under age 5 - Free). The service will be a traditional Presbyterian Season of Communion as observed in Scotland and America. The five Reformed traditions of our Presbytery will be recognized with words, banners and hymns. Today is the last day to register!

GA Discussions - You are invited to participate
Glenn Hink and Bill Hoffman would like to host those interested in a follow-up time to pray about and discuss the recently concluded General Assembly and its implications for our churches and ministries. We are tentatively looking to meet at East Main Church in Grove City either Monday, July 14, 7-8:30 PM or Tuesday, July 15, 10:30-NOON. If you are interested in coming, please get back to Bill Hoffman (pastorbill@zoominternet.net or 724-458-8270) with your time preference. We will announce finalized details by the end of next week (7/10).

Energy Audit Links
There is an energy audit online at www.thedailygreen.com. If you click on "Green Homes", then "DIY Home Energy Audit" and that page also has a link to a web-based do-it-yourself energy audit tool at http://hes.lbl.gov. There is also a group called Interfaith Power and Light that has organizations in each state (PA hasn't started one yet) that helps religious and non-profit organizations with energy and conservation issues. They have a store at www.shopipl.org that offers energy supplies (bulbs, etc.) at "deeply discounted" prices for churches.

Award Given to Bill and Lois Anderson at the 218th General Assembly
The Rev. Hunter Farrell, director of World Mission, presented the Bell-Mackay Prize to Bill Anderson. Anderson and his late wife Lois spent 49 years in African-based mission service. As a result of their ministry, the Nile Theological College in Khartoum, Sudan, is now the first high-level Protestant theological institution in that country. Accepting the award, Anderson encouraged those gathered to “do your work and expect the Holy Spirit.” Read the full story here.

Equipping Pastors
The Board of Pensions has provided a grant of $20,000 to the eight presbyteries of western PA to provide a program over the next year for "Equipping Pastors" with support to their ministries. You have probably seen the flyer for the four retreats (available on our "News & Events" page). There will also be monthly meetings here in Shenango Presbytery. Margaret Trautman is providing staff support to a planning team consisting of Ray Hylton, Jason Hickman, Amy Na, Monica Hamilton and Dave Lingle. If you have topics on pastoral leadership of concern to you, please contact Margaret ched@shenango.org so that she can share them with the planning team.

Singers needed -- for CELEBRATION CHOIR for the Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration(Sunday, July 27th)Rehearsals --- Friday evening, July 25, 7:30 p.m. at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road (Route 318) in Lackawannock Township -- and a 2nd rehearsal on Sunday, July 27th -- 4 p.m. at the Anderson Auditorium on the Westminster Campus. ALL SINGERS welcome to either or both rehearsals. For more info call: Jane Bartholomew 724-981-2377

Beth Moore Simulcast @ Covenant, Sharon
Beth Moore, well known author and Bible study leader, will appear live via satellite at Covenant, Sharon on August 1 & 2 for a life-changing time of Bible teaching and authentic worship. Contact Michelle at 724-981-3535 for more information.

Important Opportunity
At 4:00 PM on Sunday, July 13 Ralph Hawkins will be installed as pastor of the New Wilmington Presbyterian Church. That is an important event in itself, but it is also wonderful to hear a sermon by Dr. Darrell Guder, Dean of Princeton Theological Seminary. Darrell is probably the most important voice in "missional church" thinking about which several of our churches have been learning. For more information on Darrell click here: http://www.ptsem.edu/Academics/departments/RS/Docs/CVs/Guder_cv.pdf.

Donate Used Materials
Churches can donate their used VBS and Sunday School curriculum to the Kayenta Presbyterian Church in Arizona. Materials can be brought to the Fall Gathering of Presbyterian Women on October 18th at Faith Presbyterian Church.

First Presbyterian Church, New Castle seeks Nursery Director
See the full job description and contact information on our "Help Wanted" page (available under "Quick Links" on our home page.

New Print Cartridges Available at Presbytery Office
We have several brand new ink cartridges here at the office that fit printers that we no longer own. They are available for $10.00 - first come, first served
2 HP 15 - black inkjet
1 Lexmark 82 - black
1 Lexmark 83 - color
1 HP 78 - tri color inkjet

Official Call to the July 1, 2008 Meeting of Shenango Presbytery

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:04:00 +0000

Official Call to the July 1, 2008 Meeting of Shenango Presbytery

The next stated meeting of Shenango Presbytery will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2008 at 6:30 PM at the Leesburg Presbyterian Church in Volant.

Highlights of the meeting include:
- AIR CONDITIONED SANCTUARY
- Nomination and installation of Tom Gomola (pastor @ Leesburg) as Moderator of Shenango Presbytery and Arnie Morris (elder @ 1st New Castle) as Vice Moderator.
- Examination of a candidate for ordination.
- Commissioning Linda Kellogg as Lay Pastor @ Coolspring Presbyterian Church.

Click here for the docket and council minutes. (You can always access the docket and council minutes by going to http://www.shenango.org/news/meeting.htm.)

eLink News - June 25, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 18:11:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
June 28 - General Assembly ends
July 1- 6:30 PM Presbytery Meeting, Leesburg (the docket will be online as soon as Auutmn receives it)

Joys
Bill and Jenny Stone's (Neshannock, NW) son, Bill, received his M.Div. from Princeton Seminary in May. He will remain at Princeton for the next year working on his Th.M.

Keep up with GA
You can keep up with the events at the upcoming General Assembly meeting by clicking the GA button on our homepage or the "News & Events" page of our website. There is also a photo of our Commissioners and YAD on the "News & Events" page.

IRS Mileage Increase
The IRS rate for mileage reimbursement will increase on July 1st to 58.5 cents per mile. This rate will be good through December of 2008.

Grant Deadline Extended
The deadline for "Small Church Grants" has been extended to July 1st. Applications are available on the "News & Events" page of the Presbytery web site.

Shenango Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration
July 27, 2008 in Anderson Auditorium at Westminster College. The day will include a dinner served at the back of the auditorium at 5:00 PM ($10.00 adults, ages 5-12 $5.00, under age 5 - Free). The service will be a traditional Presbyterian Season of Communion as observed in Scotland and America. The five Reformed traditions of our Presbytery will be recognized with words, banners and hymns. Further information was mailed to the pastor of each church this week.

Pastor - Theologian
Pastors, would you like to be part of a group meeting for three days doing serious theological reflection together? Check out the link to this program in Joe Small's office http://www.pcusa.org/theologyandworship/whatwedo/pastor-theologian.htm. Note: If this link does not work, copy and paste it into your browser's address bar.

Equipping Pastors
The Board of Pensions has provided a grant of $20,000 to the eight presbyteries of western PA to provide a program over the next year for "Equipping Pastors" with support to their ministries. You have probably seen the flyer for the four retreats (available on our "News & Events" page). There will also be monthly meetings here in Shenango Presbytery. Margaret Trautman is providing staff support to a planning team consisting of Ray Hylton, Jason Hickman, Amy Na, Monica Hamilton and Dave Lingle. If you have topics on pastoral leadership of concern to you, please contact Margaret ched@shenango.org so that she can share them with the planning team.

Day of Prayer at New Wilmington Mission Conference - July 19, 9 AM – 4 PM - Witherspoon Room, McKelvey Center - Westminster College
You are invited to join in the New Wilmington Mission Conference Day of Prayer on July 19, 9 AM – 4 PM. The Day of Prayer has been a long-standing tradition for the staff at NWMC. It is a standard part of our preparation for the week. This year we are expanding the Day of Prayer by expanding our invitation to everyone and by focusing our prayers more on the world.This expanded Day of Prayer is in response to a new spark of mission fervor and commitment in the PC(USA).

Singers needed -- for CELEBRATION CHOIR for the Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration(Sunday, July 27th)
Rehearsals --- Friday evening, July 25, 7:30 p.m. at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road (Route 318) in Lackawannock Township -- and a 2nd rehearsal on Sunday, July 27th -- 4 p.m. at the Anderson Auditorium on the Westminster Campus. ALL SINGERS welcome to either or both rehearsals. For more info call: Jane Bartholomew 724-981-2377

Beth Moore Simulcast @ Covenant, Sharon
Beth Moore, well known author and Bible study leader, will appear live via satellite at Covenant, Sharon on August 1 & 2 for a life-changing time of Bible teaching and authentic worship. Contact Michelle at 724-981-3535 for more information.

New Print Cartridges Available at Presbytery Office
We have several brand new ink cartridges here at the office that fit printers that we no longer own. They are available for $10.00 - first come, first served

2 HP 15 - black inkjet
1 Lexmark 82 - black
1 Lexmark 83 - color
1 HP 78 - tri color inkjet

eLink EXTRA - June 18, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 17:54:00 +0000

CORRECTION
There was a typo in the press release regarding the Day of Prayer for the New Wilmington Mission Conference. The Day of Prayer will actually be held on July 19th.

Grant Deadline Extended
The deadline for "Small Church Grants" has been extended to July 1st. Applications are available on the "News & Events" page of the Presbytery web site.

e-Link News - June 17, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:32:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
June 17 - 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry Meeting, Neshannock, New Wilmington

June 18 - 1:00 PM Christian Education Committee, Presbytery Office

June 19 - 1:30 PM Evangelism Committee, Presbytery Office

June 20 - 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry Committee, Presbytery Office

June 21 - General Assembly Begins

June 22 - 7:00 PM Commissioned Lay Pastors

Prayers
Barry Almy's mother is seriously ill with cancer, so Betsy and Barry will be in Georgia with her for the next few weeks.

Keep up with GA
You can keep up with the events at the upcoming General Assembly meeting by clicking the GA button on our homepage or the "News & Events" page of our website. There is also a photo of our Commissioners and YAD on the "News & Events" page.

A Finalist!
New Wilmington Presbyterian Church's Senior High Youth Group is one of the 15 finalists in the YMIlive video challenge. The three winning videos will be selected by the Youth Advisory Delegates at GA next week.

Shenango Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration
July 27, 2008 in Anderson Auditorium at Westminster College. The day will include a dinner served at the back of the auditorium at 5:00 PM ($10.00 adults, ages 5-12 $5.00, under age 5 - Free). The service will be a traditional Presbyterian Season of Communion as observed in Scotland and America. The five Reformed traditions of our Presbytery will be recognized with words, banners and hymns. Further information was mailed to the pastor of each church this week.

Thank You!
ROOT International would like to thank the churches that partnered in helping with sorting, packing, providing donations and financial support. We still need volunteers to load the trailers for the trip west. Call Becky for information on time and place at 724-699-1182.

Pastor - Theologian
Pastors, would you like to be part of a group meeting for three days doing serious theological reflection together? Check out the link to this program in Joe Small's office http://www.pcusa.org/theologyandworship/whatwedo/pastor-theologian.htm. Note: If this link does not work, copy and paste it into your browser's address bar.

Equipping Pastors
The Board of Pensions has provided a grant of $20,000 to the eight presbyteries of western PA to provide a program over the next year for "Equipping Pastors" with support to their ministries. You have probably seen the flyer for the four retreats (available on our "News & Events" page). There will also be monthly meetings here in Shenango Presbytery. Margaret Trautman is providing staff support to a planning team consisting of Ray Hylton, Jason Hickman, Amy Na, Monica Hamilton and Dave Lingle. If you have topics on pastoral leadership of concern to you, please contact Margaret ched@shenango.org so that she can share them with the planning team.

Day of Prayer at New Wilmington Mission Conference - July 29, 9 AM – 4 PM - Witherspoon Room, McKelvey Center - Westminster College
You are invited to join in the New Wilmington Mission Conference Day of Prayer on July 29, 9 AM – 4 PM. The Day of Prayer has been a long-standing tradition for the staff at NWMC. It is a standard part of our preparation for the week. This year we are expanding the Day of Prayer by expanding our invitation to everyone and by focusing our prayers more on the world.
This expanded Day of Prayer is in response to a new spark of mission fervor and commitment in the PC(USA).

Singers needed -- for CELEBRATION CHOIR for the Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration
(Sunday, July 27th) Rehearsals --- Friday evening, July 25, 7:30 p.m. at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield, 1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road (Route 318) in Lackawannock Township -- and a 2nd rehearsal on Sunday, July 27th -- 4 p.m. at the Anderson Auditorium on the Westminster Campus. ALL SINGERS welcome to either or both rehearsals. For more info call: Jane Bartholomew 724-981-2377

eLink News - June 10, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 20:16:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
June 11 - 1:00 PM Presbyterian Women Meeting, Presbytery Office
3:00 PM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
June 17 - 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry Meeting, Neshannock, New Wilmington

Keep up with GA
You can keep up with the events at the upcoming General Assembly meeting by clicking the GA button on our homepage or the "News & Events" page of our website. There is also a photo of our Commissioners and YAD on the "News & Events" page.

Thank You!
ROOT International would like to thank the churches that partnered in helping with sorting, packing, providing donations and financial support. We still need volunteers to load the trailers for the trip west. Call Becky for information on time and place at 724-699-1182.

Equipping Pastors
The Board of Pensions has provided a grant of $20,000 to the eight presbyteries of western PA to provide a program over the next year for "Equipping Pastors" with support to their ministries. You have probably seen the flyer for the four retreats (available on our "News & Events" page). There will also be monthly meetings here in Shenango Presbytery. Margaret Trautman is providing staff support to a planning team consisting of Ray Hylton, Jason Hickman, Amy Na, Monica Hamilton and Dave Lingle. If you have topics on pastoral leadership of concern to you, please contact Margaret ched@shenango.org so that she can share them with the planning team.

Speaker Available
Rachel Weller is in the area for the summer. She is available to speak on Ethiopia. You can reach her at wellerachel@gmail.com or on her cell 724-815-7246.

Presbytery Bicentennial -- "Celebration Choir" -- Calling all singers!to sing in a Celebration Choir for our Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration worship service to be held on Sunday, July 27, 2008.
A choir rehearsal will be held on Friday evening, July 25, 2008 at 7:30 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield (1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road, Route 318) --halfway between West Middesex and Mercer. Music will be provided. Come and join your voice in celebration!

Presbytery Scholarship Recipients Announced- Congratulate any recipients that you know:
$1200: Addison Domske, New Wilmington Pres WC
Brett Glavey, First Pres, Sharpsville WC
Ryan King, East Main, Grove City GCC
Katie Tomko, Lebanon UP, Mercer WC

$750: Janet Brocklehurst, Bethany, Mercer GCC
Nate Hunter, New Wilmington Pres WC

$500: Samantha Clark, Covenant, Sharon GCC
Stephanie Finnegan, Bethany, Mercer WC
Miriam Karavias, East Brook GCC

Special Annoucement

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 20:31:00 +0000

The Presbytery office is getting new phone service on Monday, June 9th in the afternoon. Service should only be interrupted for a short time.

eLink News - June 3, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 20:16:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
June 3 - 9:30 AM Council Meeting, Highland Church
June 4-6 - Synod Summer Conference, Westminster College

Note: Office staff will be attending portions of the Synod Summer Conference June 4-6 at Westmisnter College. We will post return times on the front door, but you can always leave us a voice mail if you stop by and the office is closed.

Joys
Debbie Forsberg has been the Resource Center Director for the Presbytery for 8 years.

Opportunity to Learn about the “Partnership for the Missional Church”
14 congregations in Shenango Presbytery have been involved in missional church renewal during the past several years. 4 congregations (Clen Moore, Third New Castle, Bell, and Christ) are presently involved in “Partnership for the Missional Church” with Church Innovations. The president of Church Innovations, Pat Keifert, is the keynote speaker for the Synod Summer Conference at Westminster College on June 4 – 6. You are welcome to hear Dr. Keifert speak in the Witherspoon Room of the McKelvey Student Center at 10:00 am on Thursday and Friday (June 5 – 6). For more details on the schedule click on the blue button at the bottom of our homepage.

Attend Worship at the Synod Summer Conference
Worship at the Synod Summer Conference is open to the public. If you didn't register for the conference, but would still like to participate in worship check out the schedule by clicking on the blue button at the bottom of our homepage.

Keep up with GA
You can keep up with the events at the upcoming General Assembly meeting by clicking the GA button on our homepage or the "News & Events" page of our website.

Speaker Available
Rachel Weller is in the area for the summer. She is available to speak on Ethiopia. You can reach her at wellerachel@gmail.com or on her cell 724-815-7246.

Presbytery Bicentennial -- "Celebration Choir" -- Calling all singers!to sing in a Celebration Choir for our Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration worship service to be held on Sunday, July 27, 2008.
A choir rehearsal will be held on Friday evening, July 25, 2008 at 7:30 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield (1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road, Route 318) --halfway between West Middesex and Mercer. Music will be provided. Come and join your voice in celebration!

Book Sale at Third, NC This Week
They are still collecting books and will be through Wednesday. Sale dates and hours are as follows: Thursday, June 5 10:00 to 6:00 Friday June 6 10:00 to 5:00 Saturday June 7 10:00 to 2:00 If there are any questions, call Judy at the church 724-659-6683.

Presbytery Scholarship Recipients Announced- Congratulate any recipients that you know:
$1200:
Addison Domske, New Wilmington Pres WC
Brett Glavey, First Pres, Sharpsville WC
Ryan King, East Main, Grove City GCC
Katie Tomko, Lebanon UP, Mercer WC

$750:
Janet Brocklehurst, Bethany, Mercer GCC
Nate Hunter, New Wilmington Pres WC

$500:
Samantha Clark, Covenant, Sharon GCC
Stephanie Finnegan, Bethany, Mercer WC
Miriam Karavias, East Brook GCC

e-Link Extra - May 30, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Shari) — Fri, 30 May 2008 15:22:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
June 3 - 9:30 AM Council Meeting, Highland Church
June 4-6 - Synod Summer Conference, Westminster College

Note: Office staff will be attending portions of the Synod Summer Conference June 4-6 at Westmisnter College. We will post return times on the front door, but you can always leave us a voice mail if you stop by and the office is closed.

Opportunity to Learn about the “Partnership for the Missional Church”
14 congregations in Shenango Presbytery have been involved in missional church renewal during the past several years. 4 congregations (Clen Moore, Third New Castle, Bell, and Christ) are presently involved in “Partnership for the Missional Church” with Church Innovations. The president of Church Innovations, Pat Keifert, is the keynote speaker for the Synod Summer Conference at Westminster College on June 4 – 6. You are welcome to hear Dr. Keifert speak in the Witherspoon Room of the McKelvey Student Center at 10:00 am on Thursday and Friday (June 5 – 6). For more details on the schedule click here http://www.syntrinity.org/home/announcements/Summer_Conference_2008/Schedule.htm

e-Link News - May 28, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Shari) — Wed, 28 May 2008 20:31:00 +0000

Dick Baker (pastor at Enon) had triple by-pass surgery on Tuesday, May 27 and is doing well at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

eLink EXTRA - May 22, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Thu, 22 May 2008 18:16:00 +0000

Cast Your Vote!
The Senior High Youth Group at New Wilmington Presbyterian Church has entered a video in the YMI (Youth Mission Initiative) Video Challenge interpreting Micah 6:8. Your vote could help them win a $25,000.00 endowment fund to help the youth program. As far as we can tell, this is the only video submitted from our Presbytery. You can vote until June 1st by following the instructions below provided by Addie Domske, creator of the video and YAD representing our Presbytery at GA next month.

Note: In order to vote for our video, you must register.

To register to vote, click here: Register
Once there, click on "Register" below the word "Login." Fill in the necessary information to register and select "Supporter". Then click "Get Started."
Complete the next form, choosing a screen name (the name that will be displayed when you vote) for the category "Handle." Click "Register Now." (If at any time in the next steps you are asked to log in, enter the information you just registered.)
An email will be sent to you after you have registered. In the email, click on the link entitled "use this link." This will bring you to the Videos page. Leave this page open. You can try the following link to get to our video, though you might have to login again.
If the link doesn't work, follow the step in parenthesis below. http://www.ymilive.org/app/teams/new-wilmington-presbyterian-new-wilmington-pa/video (Scroll down to the bottom of the page you had open and click on the number 9. Our video is the last in the line. Click on it.)
On the next page, to the right of the video, click on the button, entitled, "Cast Your Vote." The button will disappear and a blue box will appear that says your vote was successfully cast.

eLink News - May 21, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:36:00 +0000

Meetings and Events This Week:
May 26- OFFICE CLOSED
May 27- 9:00 AM Steering Committee, Presbytery Office
1:00 PM Sudan Hosting Team, Presbytery Office

Note: Office staff will be attending portions of the Synod Summer Conference June 4-6 at Westmisnter College. We will post return times on the front door, but you can always leave us a voice mail if you stop by and the office is closed.

Prayers
- Terry Greenlee is home from his rehabilitation at Harmarville and no longer has the symptoms from Parkinson's. He will recieve his D.Min. at Pittsburgh Seminary this week. (Note: Terry has sent a thank you note for your prayers - you can read it on the "News & Events" page of the Presbytery web site.)
- Please continue to pray for the Sudan following a rebel attack on the capital. Darfur's displaced persons in Khartoum are under great persecution because of the attack. Pray for wisdom and courage for our friends in the Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church.

Joys
- Kang Na is the commencement speaker at the Pittsburgh Seminary graduation this week.
- Word Centered Fellowship celebrated their 5th anniversary this past weekend with Dr. Bryant Parker from Witherspoon Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis as the guest preacher. Several Shenango Presbytery congregations were represented at the Friday evening Gospel Singalong.

Summer Camping Jobs Available
With less than a month to go until the start of summer camp programs, The Camping Association still has a few summer employment opportunities available. Camp Lambec, with a season beginning June 8, needs a lifeguard, an office assistant and a general support staff member. At Westminster Highlands, with a season beginning June 22, there are two openings for male cabin counselors. Training, a weekly salary, room and board are provided. Applicants must be 18 years of age and/or a high school graduate. If you know of young people who may be interested, please encourage them to contact the central camp office ASAP at 724-738-0058 or at capnwp@aol.com.

Summer Leadership Conference, June 8-11, 2008 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
Now in it's 68th year, this annual conference will focus on family systems - understanding relationships within our families and our congregations. Keynote speaker is Ronald W. Richardson, former Clinical Director of the North Shore Counseling Centre, a pastoral counselor, and an author. Marsha Foster Boyd will be the keynote preacher - she is currently the president of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary. Because this program is partially funded by a grant, the registration fee is only $120 ($135 after May 15), wich includes all plenary sessions, daily worship, two workshop tracks, and breakfast, lunch and dinner for three days. Housing is extra. Contact the Office of Continuing Education with questions or to request a registration brochure. 412-441-3304, ext. 2196 or Bgrogan@pts.edu.

Attend Worship at the Synod Summer Conference
Worship at the Synod Summer Conference is open to the public. If you didn't register for the conference, but would still like to participate in worship check out the schedule at http://www.syntrinity.org/home/announcements/Summer_Conference_2008/Schedule.htm.

Presbytery Bicentennial -- "Celebration Choir" -- Calling all singers!
to sing in a Celebration Choir for our Presbytery Bicentennial Celebration worship service to be held on Sunday, July 27, 2008. A choir rehearsal will be held on Friday evening, July 25, 2008 at 7:30 PM at the Unity Presbyterian Church at Greenfield (1857 Mercer West Middlesex Road, Route 318) --halfway between West Middesex and Mercer. Music will be provided. Come and join your voice in celebration!

eLink News - May 13, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (autumnc) — Tue, 13 May 2008 20:39:00 +0000

Note: The links in this version of e-Link may not work for you, we are working on a solution to the problem.

Meetings and Events This Week:
May 14- 3:00 PM Nominating Committee, Presbytery Office
May 15- 1:00 PM Sudan Team, Presbytery Office
May 16- 12:30 PM Preparation for Ministry Committee, Presbytery Office
May 20- 7:00 PM Committee on Ministry Committee, Neshannock, NW

Prayers
- Terry Greenlee has returned home Harmarville and is doing well.

CAMP LAMBEC SPRING WORK DAY - SATURDAY, MAY 17, 9 AM
The Camping Association invites individuals, families and groups to particapate in the annual Camp Lambec spring workday. Camp personnel will be on hand to greet you anytime after 8 AM. Arrive anytime in the morning and stay as long as you are able, even overnight. When you arrive, our camp staff will have a list of proposed projects and a storehouse of needed supplies. They will help you choose a job to fit your skills and time availability. If you complete a job and still have energy, you can return to the job list and choose another task. Or, feel free to spend the remainder of your day enjoying the campsite. Complimentary weekend accommodations for workers and their families are available in our camper cabins by prior reservation. Please contact Lisa in The Camping Office (724-738-0058) to arrange for your complimentary one or two night work weekend stay.

Is Your Church Doing an Energy Audit?
New Wilmington Presbyterian's Peacemaking Committee is seeking information about churches doing an "energy audit". If your church has done this or if you know what is involved, please contact Bob VanDale at bobcarlavandale@netzero.net. They will appreciate any help you can offer.

Mission Travel Opportunities
World Mission Initiative trips in 2009 includes these opportunities and more:- Spring Break (Feb. 27 - Mar. 7): New Orleans, Haiti, Mexico- Summer possibilities: Russia, Ethiopia, Philippines, Singapore, etc.For a complete list, contact Don Dawson at ddawson@pts.edu.

Summer Leadership Conference, June 8-11, 2008 at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
Now in it's 68th year, this annual conference will focus on family systems - understanding relationships within our families and our congregations. Keynote speaker is Ronald W. Richardson, former Clinical Director of the North Shore Counseling Centre, a pastoral counselor, and an author. Marsha Foster Boyd will be the keynote preacher - she is currently the president of the Ecumenical Theological Seminary. Because this program is partially funded by a grant, the registration fee is only $120 ($135 after May 15), wich includes all plenary sessions, daily worship, two workshop tracks, and breakfast, lunch and dinner for three days. Housing is extra. Contact the Office of Continuing Education with questions or to request a registration brochure. 412-441-3304, ext. 2196 or Bgrogan@pts.edu.