pray for the 224th general assembly ongoing this week · at their meeting on june 11, oga voted to...
TRANSCRIPT
ldquoThose who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almightyrdquo
Psalm 911
Week of June 22 2020
Presbytery of
Cincinnati
4309 Cooper
Road
Cincinnati
Ohio 45242
The Cincinnati Sampler MORE PRESBYTERIANSmdashMORE ENGAGED
Letrsquos Make the Table Bigger
Newly Elected Co-Moderators Teaching Elder Gregory J Bentley and Ruling Elder Elona Street-Stewart are Co-Moderators of the 224th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Rev Bentley pastors the Fellowship Presbyterian Church in Huntsville Alabama and Elder Street-Stewart is synod executive of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies Both cite their own heritage and the dramatic influence of the PC(USA) on their lives as the foundation of their desire to serve the wider church ldquoOur personal experiences teach so much about who we are and they are key to building rela-tions across our differences experiences and our church
through the hope of the Matthew 25 initiativerdquo Street-Stewart observed ldquoWe believe it will take all that we are individually and collectively to continue to take on the important work God has for the PC(USA) to dordquo
Pray for the 224th General Assembly ongoing this week
and Presbytery of Cincinnati Commissioners
Rev Shawn Barkley Elder Bill Bogdan Margaret Heidenreich Rev Kris Moore
Elder Darlene Nored
Connecting and equipping
congregations to bear
witness to the
overwhelming hope
audacious joy
and contagious love
of Jesus Christ
PRESBYTERY STAFF AND OFFICERS
Lisa Allgood Executive Presbytermdash lisacpresbyorg
Rev Erwin Goedicke Stated Clerkmdasherwincpresbyorg
Margaret Heidenreich Office Managermdashsecretarycpresbyorg
Barbara Jean Havens Coordinator Eastern Area Council
Bill Maney Treasurermdashfinancecpresbyorg
Bill Bogdan Moderator
Rev Carol Ferguson Vice Moderator
Rev Adam Fronczek Council Chair
PRESBYTERY OFFICE HOURS ARE 9AM-2PM Monday through Thursday
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
httpswwwpcusaorgracial-justice-resources
Stated Clerk remembers recent victims of racial violence (8 min video) ndash May 29 2020
Stated Clerk lsquoNo longer can we hide behind not being controversialrsquo ndash June 3 2020
PMA PresidentExecutive Director Diane Moffett statement on recent protests and shootings ndash June 3 2020
Presbyterian Foundation President Tom Taylor statement ndash June 2 2020
Board of Pensions President Frank C Spencer statement ndash June 2 2020
Mid council leaders speak out A collection of PC(USA) expressions of grief lament outrage challenge conviction repentance and commitment mdash along with resources for learning and action
ldquoWe Standrdquo Mid council and other church leaders share their hearts and prayers as the na-tion struggles (2 min video)
Statement and Resources from the Presbyterian Historical Society ndash June 11 2020
Worship Resources
Service of Lament (45 min video) Vital Congregations Rev Denise Anderson preaching ndash June 10 2020
A Prayer in a Time of Anger Unrest and Injustice (includes original hymn) ndash June 1 2020
Proclaiming Unity Reconciliation and Justice (2 min video from Mid-Kentucky Presbytery) ndash June 4 2020
Peacemaking Virtual Choir Project ldquoThis Is My Songrdquo (3 min video)
ldquoWe Stand Arm in Armrdquo video prayer from the Synod of the Northeast (4 min) ndash May 31 2020
Matthew 25 Dismantling Structural Racism mdash Definition Theology Scripture
Structural racism resources from the Book of Confessions and Directory for Worship (includes hymn suggestions)
Sermon the biblical foundation for our antiracism work by the Rev Samuel Son
We Choose Welcome campaign
Just Worship The Documentary (33 min film)
Policy Statements
ldquoFacing Racism A Vision of the Intercultural Communityrdquo mdash PC(USA) churchwide antiracism policy approved by the 222nd General Assembly (2016) | Companion study guide
The Belhar Confession ndash added to the Book of Confessions by the 222nd General Assembly (2016) | Study guide
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Recommended Books
ldquoGood White Racist Confronting Your Role in Racial Injusticerdquo by Kerry Connelly (March 2020)
ldquoFor Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better Worldrdquo by Michael W Waters (coming September 2020) - Preorder | Free discussion and activity guide
ldquoTen Essential Strategies for Becoming a Multiracial Congregationrdquo by Jacqueline J Lewis and John Janka (March 2018)
ldquoBrian the Braverdquo by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter (August 2019) ndash childrenrsquos book
ldquoNo Innocent Bystanders Becoming an Ally in the Struggle for Justicerdquo by Shannon Craigo-Snell and Christopher Doucot (October 2017)
ldquoPreaching About Racism A Guide for Faith Leadersrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (December 2018)
ldquoAnxious to Talk About It Helping White Christians Talk Faithfully about Racismrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (February 2018)
ldquoRace in a Post-Obama America The Church Respondsrdquo by David Maxwell and Otis Moss III (May 2016)
ldquoWaking Up White and Finding Myself in the Story of Racerdquo by Debby Irving (January 2014)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system
Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo
What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Articles
Current news stories mdash PC(USA)
More news stories mdash Presbyterian Mission Agency
ldquoWhat white churches can do about racismrdquo ndash June 10 2020
ldquoTwo advocacy committees call on PC(USA) to recommit to struggle for racial justicerdquo (Racial Equity Advocacy Cmte and Advocacy Cmte for Womenrsquos Concerns) ndash May 28 2020
ldquo6 Ways White People Can Dismantle White Supremacyrdquo Unbound ndash May 26 2020
ldquoWe unreservedly condemn the killings of African Americansrdquo news story and video from the PC(USA)rsquos African Presbyterian Leaders Alliance ndash June 9 2020
ldquoBeyond protest how can you and your church bring changerdquo by Jimmie Hawkins director of PC(USA) Office of Public Witness ndash June 8 2020 | Video Why is protest important (19 min)
ldquoHow should we protest and whyrdquo ndash June 3 2020
ldquoWe fall to our knees with you A statement from the National Middle Eastern Presbyterian Caucusrdquo ndash June 2 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Other Resources
White Privilege
This one-session adult study is part of the Racism Study Pack We are offering this downloadable resource for free at the links below We encourage you to form a study group or email to members as a starting point Consider purchasing the study pack to continue your study as well Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide Purchase the Racism Study Pack
Responding to Racism
This one-session youth study helps leaders guide preteens and teens through the complicated subject of racism We encourage you to either lead your youth through this study (in-person or virtually depending on your situation) or email to parents to encourage a family study Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide
Presbytery Opportunity for Learning Parents Raising Anti-Racist Kids Tina Hubert (Knox) and Rev Louisa Umphres (Lakeside) are putting together a training opportunity for parents based on Jennifer Harveyrsquos course Raising Antiracist White Kids Real challenges exist when it comes to raising white children in a society that is full of racial injustice Should we teach white kids to be ldquocolorblindrdquo Or to notice race What roles do we want them to play in address-ing racism when they encounter it How do we best do that In this course you will learn to
recognize the impact of ldquowhite silencerdquo and develop skills to interrupt it
talk about race with white children with curiosity and confidence
go beyond ldquoequalityrdquo or ldquocolorblindnessrdquo and toward race-conscious and justice-conscious ways of engaging children and youth
nurture habits in your parenting and caregiving that support antiracist development in the lives of the white children and youth in your life
recognize the importance of finding a community of accountability to support your own anti-racist commitment as we work together to create a future where all of us can flourish
Here is the information about the course httpsjenniferharveyorgraising-antiracist-white-kids-course
Contact Tina (thubertknoxorg) or Louisa (louisalakesidechurchorg) if yoursquore interested
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
httpswwwpcusaorgracial-justice-resources
Stated Clerk remembers recent victims of racial violence (8 min video) ndash May 29 2020
Stated Clerk lsquoNo longer can we hide behind not being controversialrsquo ndash June 3 2020
PMA PresidentExecutive Director Diane Moffett statement on recent protests and shootings ndash June 3 2020
Presbyterian Foundation President Tom Taylor statement ndash June 2 2020
Board of Pensions President Frank C Spencer statement ndash June 2 2020
Mid council leaders speak out A collection of PC(USA) expressions of grief lament outrage challenge conviction repentance and commitment mdash along with resources for learning and action
ldquoWe Standrdquo Mid council and other church leaders share their hearts and prayers as the na-tion struggles (2 min video)
Statement and Resources from the Presbyterian Historical Society ndash June 11 2020
Worship Resources
Service of Lament (45 min video) Vital Congregations Rev Denise Anderson preaching ndash June 10 2020
A Prayer in a Time of Anger Unrest and Injustice (includes original hymn) ndash June 1 2020
Proclaiming Unity Reconciliation and Justice (2 min video from Mid-Kentucky Presbytery) ndash June 4 2020
Peacemaking Virtual Choir Project ldquoThis Is My Songrdquo (3 min video)
ldquoWe Stand Arm in Armrdquo video prayer from the Synod of the Northeast (4 min) ndash May 31 2020
Matthew 25 Dismantling Structural Racism mdash Definition Theology Scripture
Structural racism resources from the Book of Confessions and Directory for Worship (includes hymn suggestions)
Sermon the biblical foundation for our antiracism work by the Rev Samuel Son
We Choose Welcome campaign
Just Worship The Documentary (33 min film)
Policy Statements
ldquoFacing Racism A Vision of the Intercultural Communityrdquo mdash PC(USA) churchwide antiracism policy approved by the 222nd General Assembly (2016) | Companion study guide
The Belhar Confession ndash added to the Book of Confessions by the 222nd General Assembly (2016) | Study guide
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Recommended Books
ldquoGood White Racist Confronting Your Role in Racial Injusticerdquo by Kerry Connelly (March 2020)
ldquoFor Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better Worldrdquo by Michael W Waters (coming September 2020) - Preorder | Free discussion and activity guide
ldquoTen Essential Strategies for Becoming a Multiracial Congregationrdquo by Jacqueline J Lewis and John Janka (March 2018)
ldquoBrian the Braverdquo by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter (August 2019) ndash childrenrsquos book
ldquoNo Innocent Bystanders Becoming an Ally in the Struggle for Justicerdquo by Shannon Craigo-Snell and Christopher Doucot (October 2017)
ldquoPreaching About Racism A Guide for Faith Leadersrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (December 2018)
ldquoAnxious to Talk About It Helping White Christians Talk Faithfully about Racismrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (February 2018)
ldquoRace in a Post-Obama America The Church Respondsrdquo by David Maxwell and Otis Moss III (May 2016)
ldquoWaking Up White and Finding Myself in the Story of Racerdquo by Debby Irving (January 2014)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system
Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo
What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Articles
Current news stories mdash PC(USA)
More news stories mdash Presbyterian Mission Agency
ldquoWhat white churches can do about racismrdquo ndash June 10 2020
ldquoTwo advocacy committees call on PC(USA) to recommit to struggle for racial justicerdquo (Racial Equity Advocacy Cmte and Advocacy Cmte for Womenrsquos Concerns) ndash May 28 2020
ldquo6 Ways White People Can Dismantle White Supremacyrdquo Unbound ndash May 26 2020
ldquoWe unreservedly condemn the killings of African Americansrdquo news story and video from the PC(USA)rsquos African Presbyterian Leaders Alliance ndash June 9 2020
ldquoBeyond protest how can you and your church bring changerdquo by Jimmie Hawkins director of PC(USA) Office of Public Witness ndash June 8 2020 | Video Why is protest important (19 min)
ldquoHow should we protest and whyrdquo ndash June 3 2020
ldquoWe fall to our knees with you A statement from the National Middle Eastern Presbyterian Caucusrdquo ndash June 2 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Other Resources
White Privilege
This one-session adult study is part of the Racism Study Pack We are offering this downloadable resource for free at the links below We encourage you to form a study group or email to members as a starting point Consider purchasing the study pack to continue your study as well Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide Purchase the Racism Study Pack
Responding to Racism
This one-session youth study helps leaders guide preteens and teens through the complicated subject of racism We encourage you to either lead your youth through this study (in-person or virtually depending on your situation) or email to parents to encourage a family study Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide
Presbytery Opportunity for Learning Parents Raising Anti-Racist Kids Tina Hubert (Knox) and Rev Louisa Umphres (Lakeside) are putting together a training opportunity for parents based on Jennifer Harveyrsquos course Raising Antiracist White Kids Real challenges exist when it comes to raising white children in a society that is full of racial injustice Should we teach white kids to be ldquocolorblindrdquo Or to notice race What roles do we want them to play in address-ing racism when they encounter it How do we best do that In this course you will learn to
recognize the impact of ldquowhite silencerdquo and develop skills to interrupt it
talk about race with white children with curiosity and confidence
go beyond ldquoequalityrdquo or ldquocolorblindnessrdquo and toward race-conscious and justice-conscious ways of engaging children and youth
nurture habits in your parenting and caregiving that support antiracist development in the lives of the white children and youth in your life
recognize the importance of finding a community of accountability to support your own anti-racist commitment as we work together to create a future where all of us can flourish
Here is the information about the course httpsjenniferharveyorgraising-antiracist-white-kids-course
Contact Tina (thubertknoxorg) or Louisa (louisalakesidechurchorg) if yoursquore interested
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Recommended Books
ldquoGood White Racist Confronting Your Role in Racial Injusticerdquo by Kerry Connelly (March 2020)
ldquoFor Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better Worldrdquo by Michael W Waters (coming September 2020) - Preorder | Free discussion and activity guide
ldquoTen Essential Strategies for Becoming a Multiracial Congregationrdquo by Jacqueline J Lewis and John Janka (March 2018)
ldquoBrian the Braverdquo by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter (August 2019) ndash childrenrsquos book
ldquoNo Innocent Bystanders Becoming an Ally in the Struggle for Justicerdquo by Shannon Craigo-Snell and Christopher Doucot (October 2017)
ldquoPreaching About Racism A Guide for Faith Leadersrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (December 2018)
ldquoAnxious to Talk About It Helping White Christians Talk Faithfully about Racismrdquo by Carolyn B Helsel (February 2018)
ldquoRace in a Post-Obama America The Church Respondsrdquo by David Maxwell and Otis Moss III (May 2016)
ldquoWaking Up White and Finding Myself in the Story of Racerdquo by Debby Irving (January 2014)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system
Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo
What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Articles
Current news stories mdash PC(USA)
More news stories mdash Presbyterian Mission Agency
ldquoWhat white churches can do about racismrdquo ndash June 10 2020
ldquoTwo advocacy committees call on PC(USA) to recommit to struggle for racial justicerdquo (Racial Equity Advocacy Cmte and Advocacy Cmte for Womenrsquos Concerns) ndash May 28 2020
ldquo6 Ways White People Can Dismantle White Supremacyrdquo Unbound ndash May 26 2020
ldquoWe unreservedly condemn the killings of African Americansrdquo news story and video from the PC(USA)rsquos African Presbyterian Leaders Alliance ndash June 9 2020
ldquoBeyond protest how can you and your church bring changerdquo by Jimmie Hawkins director of PC(USA) Office of Public Witness ndash June 8 2020 | Video Why is protest important (19 min)
ldquoHow should we protest and whyrdquo ndash June 3 2020
ldquoWe fall to our knees with you A statement from the National Middle Eastern Presbyterian Caucusrdquo ndash June 2 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Other Resources
White Privilege
This one-session adult study is part of the Racism Study Pack We are offering this downloadable resource for free at the links below We encourage you to form a study group or email to members as a starting point Consider purchasing the study pack to continue your study as well Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide Purchase the Racism Study Pack
Responding to Racism
This one-session youth study helps leaders guide preteens and teens through the complicated subject of racism We encourage you to either lead your youth through this study (in-person or virtually depending on your situation) or email to parents to encourage a family study Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide
Presbytery Opportunity for Learning Parents Raising Anti-Racist Kids Tina Hubert (Knox) and Rev Louisa Umphres (Lakeside) are putting together a training opportunity for parents based on Jennifer Harveyrsquos course Raising Antiracist White Kids Real challenges exist when it comes to raising white children in a society that is full of racial injustice Should we teach white kids to be ldquocolorblindrdquo Or to notice race What roles do we want them to play in address-ing racism when they encounter it How do we best do that In this course you will learn to
recognize the impact of ldquowhite silencerdquo and develop skills to interrupt it
talk about race with white children with curiosity and confidence
go beyond ldquoequalityrdquo or ldquocolorblindnessrdquo and toward race-conscious and justice-conscious ways of engaging children and youth
nurture habits in your parenting and caregiving that support antiracist development in the lives of the white children and youth in your life
recognize the importance of finding a community of accountability to support your own anti-racist commitment as we work together to create a future where all of us can flourish
Here is the information about the course httpsjenniferharveyorgraising-antiracist-white-kids-course
Contact Tina (thubertknoxorg) or Louisa (louisalakesidechurchorg) if yoursquore interested
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Resources from PC(USA)
Study Training and Discussion Materials
Matthew 25 Dismantling structural racism | Selected resources
PC(USA)rsquos Facing Racism website and resources
Racial Equity amp Womenrsquos Intercultural Ministries webpage
Racial Equity and Cultural Humility resources from Presbyterian Women Inc
ldquoWhite Privilegerdquo One-session adult study part of the Racism Study Pack from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide | Purchase ldquoRacism Study Packrdquo
ldquoResponding to Racismrdquo One-session youth study from The Thoughtful Christian | Participantrsquos handout | Leaderrsquos guide
Talking About Race National Museum of African American History amp Culture of the Smithsonian Institution
Antiracism resources especially for white people
Another resource list for white people in the journey of antiracism
COVID at the Margins Discussion series focusing on communities of color | Facebook Live page
Advocacy and Social Justice resources
The Bail Project ndash resources relating to ending the cash bail system
Documentaries from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for screening and discussion including ldquoFlint The Poisoning of an American Cityrdquo ldquoTo Breathe Freerdquo ldquoLocked in a Boxrdquo and ldquoTriggerrdquo
What White Churches Can Do About Racism 1-hour webinar from Union Presbyterian Seminary ndash June 10 2020
Articles
Current news stories mdash PC(USA)
More news stories mdash Presbyterian Mission Agency
ldquoWhat white churches can do about racismrdquo ndash June 10 2020
ldquoTwo advocacy committees call on PC(USA) to recommit to struggle for racial justicerdquo (Racial Equity Advocacy Cmte and Advocacy Cmte for Womenrsquos Concerns) ndash May 28 2020
ldquo6 Ways White People Can Dismantle White Supremacyrdquo Unbound ndash May 26 2020
ldquoWe unreservedly condemn the killings of African Americansrdquo news story and video from the PC(USA)rsquos African Presbyterian Leaders Alliance ndash June 9 2020
ldquoBeyond protest how can you and your church bring changerdquo by Jimmie Hawkins director of PC(USA) Office of Public Witness ndash June 8 2020 | Video Why is protest important (19 min)
ldquoHow should we protest and whyrdquo ndash June 3 2020
ldquoWe fall to our knees with you A statement from the National Middle Eastern Presbyterian Caucusrdquo ndash June 2 2020
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Other Resources
White Privilege
This one-session adult study is part of the Racism Study Pack We are offering this downloadable resource for free at the links below We encourage you to form a study group or email to members as a starting point Consider purchasing the study pack to continue your study as well Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide Purchase the Racism Study Pack
Responding to Racism
This one-session youth study helps leaders guide preteens and teens through the complicated subject of racism We encourage you to either lead your youth through this study (in-person or virtually depending on your situation) or email to parents to encourage a family study Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide
Presbytery Opportunity for Learning Parents Raising Anti-Racist Kids Tina Hubert (Knox) and Rev Louisa Umphres (Lakeside) are putting together a training opportunity for parents based on Jennifer Harveyrsquos course Raising Antiracist White Kids Real challenges exist when it comes to raising white children in a society that is full of racial injustice Should we teach white kids to be ldquocolorblindrdquo Or to notice race What roles do we want them to play in address-ing racism when they encounter it How do we best do that In this course you will learn to
recognize the impact of ldquowhite silencerdquo and develop skills to interrupt it
talk about race with white children with curiosity and confidence
go beyond ldquoequalityrdquo or ldquocolorblindnessrdquo and toward race-conscious and justice-conscious ways of engaging children and youth
nurture habits in your parenting and caregiving that support antiracist development in the lives of the white children and youth in your life
recognize the importance of finding a community of accountability to support your own anti-racist commitment as we work together to create a future where all of us can flourish
Here is the information about the course httpsjenniferharveyorgraising-antiracist-white-kids-course
Contact Tina (thubertknoxorg) or Louisa (louisalakesidechurchorg) if yoursquore interested
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Opportunities to Proclaim Justice Other Resources
White Privilege
This one-session adult study is part of the Racism Study Pack We are offering this downloadable resource for free at the links below We encourage you to form a study group or email to members as a starting point Consider purchasing the study pack to continue your study as well Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide Purchase the Racism Study Pack
Responding to Racism
This one-session youth study helps leaders guide preteens and teens through the complicated subject of racism We encourage you to either lead your youth through this study (in-person or virtually depending on your situation) or email to parents to encourage a family study Download Participant Handout | Leaders Guide
Presbytery Opportunity for Learning Parents Raising Anti-Racist Kids Tina Hubert (Knox) and Rev Louisa Umphres (Lakeside) are putting together a training opportunity for parents based on Jennifer Harveyrsquos course Raising Antiracist White Kids Real challenges exist when it comes to raising white children in a society that is full of racial injustice Should we teach white kids to be ldquocolorblindrdquo Or to notice race What roles do we want them to play in address-ing racism when they encounter it How do we best do that In this course you will learn to
recognize the impact of ldquowhite silencerdquo and develop skills to interrupt it
talk about race with white children with curiosity and confidence
go beyond ldquoequalityrdquo or ldquocolorblindnessrdquo and toward race-conscious and justice-conscious ways of engaging children and youth
nurture habits in your parenting and caregiving that support antiracist development in the lives of the white children and youth in your life
recognize the importance of finding a community of accountability to support your own anti-racist commitment as we work together to create a future where all of us can flourish
Here is the information about the course httpsjenniferharveyorgraising-antiracist-white-kids-course
Contact Tina (thubertknoxorg) or Louisa (louisalakesidechurchorg) if yoursquore interested
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
JUNE 2020
CALENDAR
PRESBYTERY OF
CINCINNATI
Tuesday 23 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 23 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Thursday 25 June
1000 AM COM Lead
Team by Zoom
Tuesday 30 June
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 30 June
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Tuesday 7 July
930AM Bible Study for
Pastors and Preachers by
Zoom (Rev Stacey Midge)
Tuesday 7 July
600 PM REPI
Presbytery Office
Wednesday 8 July
600 PM COM Meeting via
Zoom
Our Daily Bread Thank you to the 30 churches who supplied more than 17000 sandwiches and other supplies to Our Daily Bread during the worst of the shut-down and for those churches who are continuing needed donations to ODB
Restaurants and other pantries have started to open but ODB still has slots for donationsmdashfood non-perishable items and money ndash on their website If yoursquore so inclined the links are here wwwourdailybreadus
Want to Educate Yourself on Race and Privilege Almost every streaming service is showing Just Mercy for free And the website has a letter link that has pages of resourcesmdashbooks podcasts videos even resources to speak to youth and children Take this opportunity to listen and learn
Pastor Head of Staff Position
For more than 200 years Sycamore Presbyterian Church has been living its call as a congregation of Christian disciples ndash loving and serving others In 2013 we constructed a new sanctuary to our church campus to better serve our congregation SPC is a very active church filled with many willing participants from all age groups and Worship is central to SPC Our congregation currently supports a $10+ million operating budget and many say they attend Sycamore because they see it as a place that endorses spiritual connections and as an inspiration to serve God and our community Located in the rapidly-growing Northeast quadrant of Greater Cincinnati Sycamore is actively searching to call a new Pastor Head of Staff If you or someone you know is interested in this career defining opportunity to lead Sycamore through the 2020s and beyond or if you would like more information about this exciting role please click to view the Ministry Information Form If you have questions please contact us at pncsubmissionssycamorechurchorg
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
A Sabbath Sunday from the Synod of the Covenant For Pastors and Worship Planners
All of you who plan and lead worship services have been so inspiring since the pandemic began You have met the challenge of coordinating worship that is meaningful in such an uncertain time of navigating new technology and of deciding the best format in your particular context More recently you have worked to address the issues of racial justice that are all around us
The Synod of the Covenant (which includes the Presbytery of Cincinnati) wants to offer pastors and worship leaders a Sabbath from worship preparation and leadership in recognition of your faithful ministry Interim Synod Executive Chip Hardwick who addressed last weekrsquos Presbytery Gathering is coordinating a service based on Romans 612-23 one of the lectionary passages for June 28th Youll be able to download the worship service as either the whole service (which will involve liturgists from throughout the Synod) or just the scrip-ture and sermon You could use this service on 628 or any time afterwards
Of course there is no requirement to use the service The Synod is offering it with hopes that many of our churches will receive it as a gift to give you a Sabbath Sunday For questions contact Chip at synodcovenantgmailcom or 309-530-4578 or Lisa at lisacpresbyorg or 513-885-5434
There is also a 10-minute video ldquosermonrdquo that Lisa put together for May that is open for you to use Let Lisa know if yoursquore interested
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
A video outlining the structure and basic orientation to the system of the PC(USA)
Consider using this with your Sessions New Members classes
Youth and Confirmation classes
httpsyoutubecFgXGOLd5RM
A Music Resource for your worship Have amazing musicians in your congregation
Have you been producing videos of them over the past months
The Presbytery is offering to curate a collection of videos of worship musicmdashtraditional and contemporarymdashto share across the churches
so they can be shared and used in virtual worship going forward Letrsquos celebrate the King and our church musicians
Contact Lisa at lisacpresbyorg
As a start
The renowned Cincinnati brass group Seven Hills Brass created a hymn mashup that they are sharing with any and all of you who might want
to use it as part of your worship services
httpsvimeocom415589593
And herersquos one from Knox Presbyterian
httpsvimeocom425858211
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Looking for a great commentary on Revelation
Working through the book of Revelation verse by verse this work explores how and what Revelationrsquos apocalyptic theology invited people in antiquity to believe and do The book of Revelation communicates through a series of word-pictures and the book explains each word-picture in light of its ancient setting but in light of contemporary theology
The author is the Reverend Dr Ron Allen faculty for our Presbytery Ruling Elder Preaching Institute and Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters Emeritus at Christian Theological Seminary He is the author or editor of more than 40 books including a volume on Preach-ing Godrsquos Transforming Justice A Lec-tionary Commentary and the widely-used Patterns of Preaching A Sermon Sampler
Let the Presbytery know if yoursquod like a copy of this amazing work The cost is $20
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
224th GA News
THE 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY (2020) CONVENES ON JUNE 19 AT 700 PM EDT If the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals (01)mdashmeeting the night before the General Assembly convenesmdashconcurs with the recommendation of the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly there will be a change in the published docket of the General Assembly Instead of the target time of 800 pm for the election of the Co-Moderators the expected hour has been moved back to 900 pm Be-cause of the different way General Assembly is being conducted online this year procedural matters that are usually fairly quick will take longer to explain and consider and COGA heard the concern of OGA staff that more time would likely be needed to accomplish the preliminary business For those who are planning to tune in to the livestream on the website or Spirit of GA on Facebook Live just to see the election will want to be prepared for the later start time for that portion of the meeting The Committee on the Office of the General Assembly has been hearing from many throughout the PC(USA) including commissioners to this assembly that the church must speak in this moment as racial justice and toxic white supremacy are in the forefront of national consciousness There is a sense that the definition of whatrsquos ldquocore and criticalrdquo has shifted since COGA was making the determination not that long ago of what items of business could be focused on this year At their meeting on June 11 COGA voted to propose a new item for action by the 224th General Assembly (2020) Although there will be other ways in which the General Assembly experience will reflect where we are as a church and as a nation in terms of assembly business this action is intended to offer the General Assembly a place to begin It also highlights ways in which the items of business recommended for referral to the 225th General Assembly (2022) can continue to have effects in the church over the next two years In addition members of the Assembly Committee on Business Referrals intend to discuss at their June 18 meeting a resolution on the pandemic for possible referral for General Assembly consideration These two items are not yet posted in PC-Biz but please encourage commissioners and others to be on the look-out as they review the business for General Assembly The whole 224th General Assembly (2020) website is a wealth of information Many of your questions will be answered here including addressing concerns about timely items such as presbytery boundary change requests There has been considerable confusion about a proposed consent agenda I hope this will clear that up Bottom line This assembly has no consent agenda yet and if it did that would be no cause for concern because the demand of any commissioner could remove any item from it
MID COUNCIL LEADERS SPEAK OUT
In the last newsletter the wrong link was included for Matt Skolnikrsquos moving video of mid council
leaders in solidarity with all who suffer from racial injustice Try this instead
Check out the racial justice page on the PC(USA) website too That page also includes a google doc col-lecting statements and action resources primarily from mid councils
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
West Cincinnati Presbyterian Church Mission
Here are some photos from the first two weeks of our summer program We have given out 870
breakfasts and lunches and more than 200 packets of activities for our kids
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
The mobile food pantry at Mt Washingtonmdashgoing strong
and serving more than 100 families
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Sycamore Presbyterian Church Mission
We love to see the generous hearts of our children They are always watching us to set the example Zach is donating money from his lemonade stand to m25m_org and Blessing Bags Your donations continue to make a huge impact in our city This load is heading out for Kingdom Warriors They will be making lunch bags for homeless neighbors in downtown Cincinnati
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement
Presbytery of Cincinnati
Pandemic Action Plan at Re-Opening
Level 1 Monitoring the situation (likely June)
Presbytery office open
Increased sanitation and safe distancing practices throughout the building
Update all personal contact information of staff and members
Increase food handling precautions (in the local church this includes Communion Elements)
Encourage those who are ill medically vulnerable and those who have travelled to infected areas to stay home
Work with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to care for their faith communities in a time of increased anxiety illness and isolation
Encourage local congregations Pastors and other leaders in safe practices (Consult the Questions docu-ment on the Presbytery Website for ideas)
Encourage continual giving of pledges and offerings so ministry is not hampered consider online giving
Encourage congregations with a preschool to continue working the Pandemic Action plan
Continue alternate meeting technologies where feasible
Communicate plans and updated information through the Presbytery communication channels Sampler Presbytery Facebook page Presbytery website
Level 2 Limiting and Watching (current)
Presbytery office open for essential functions
Rigorous sanitation practices
Consult the Questions to Consider document for specifics to think through including music
All non-essential meetings and gatherings should continue to be cancelled or scheduled virtually
Encourage Pastors Elders and Deacons (the spiritual leaders of the congregation) to create worship liturgy prayers devotions etc that can be shared with congregation members who self-isolate and for widespread use as slow re-openings occur
Consider continuing online worship even as you begin to meet in the Sanctuary
Work with congregations Pastors and local leaders as they open the building for only worship and essential leadership functions
Continue to use technology resources to gather as a faith community
Encourage safe distancing in all gatherings
Level 3 Closing (if local spikes in infection occur)
Presbytery office closed
Work with the congregations Pastors and local leaders as local churches close for worship and all activities
Presbytery staff work from home
Implement use of technology for essential leadership functions
Communicate with local congregations Pastors and other leaders to offer updated information encouragement