MINUTES Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley

Synod of Living WatersPresbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Stated MeetingFebruary 18, 2016

GOD CALLS US TOGETHER

The Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley of the Synod of Living Waters of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) met in the Stated Meeting on February 18, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

Throughout these minutes, Teaching Elders are indicated by an asterisk (*).

The meeting was called to order at 9:45 a.m. by Moderator Lou Ann Sellers who opened the meeting with prayer. Moderator Sellers read from the 100th Psalm.

The outgoing Moderator has the responsibility of recommending names to serve on the Committee of Nominations and Representation. The following individuals were recommended to serve on the Committee on Nominations and Representation, Class of 2018:

Ruling Elder Linda Harris, Westminster, BirminghamTeaching Elder Cathy Hoop, UniversityRuling Elder, Jack Riley, Shades Valley was recommended to serve as the 2016 Moderator of the Committee on Nominations and Representation.

These individuals were approved unanimously.

The installation of 2016 Moderator, James Toomey, and Vice Moderator, Rev. Shannon Webster proceeded. The Moderator’s cross was passed to Elder Toomey. The description of the cross appears following Appendix A.

Past Moderator Sellers was presented with a gift along with great thanks for her leadership over the past year.

Incoming Moderator Toomey gave the assembly a bit of his background and asked the members of his home church, First Presbyterian to rise.

On advice of the Stated Clerk, a quorum was declared by the Moderator. The docket was adopted by acclamation.

ORGANIZATION

Adoption of the DocketThe docket was adopted by common consent.

Seating of Corresponding Members Thomas Herwig, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany and First, Tuscaloosa

Recognition of First-time Elders and Visitors The Moderator recognized all first-time elders who were introduced to the body.

Nomination to Bills and Overtures CommitteeThe Moderator placed into nomination the following: Rev. Joe Scrivner, Brown Memorial, Tuscaloosa, Rev. Shelaine Bird, Member at Large and Ruling Elder, Mark Aldridge, First,

Birmingham. The nominations were approved.

Rev. James Goodlet welcomed the assembly to First Presbyterian, Tuscaloosa.

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Teaching EldersMinisters Present (44) Excused (62) Absent (15)

Abernethy, Barrett PActon, Ben PAdams, Nan AAlexander, Frank HR EAnderson, Mike AAtkerson, Rick EBang, Yo Chang EBird, Shelaine ABooth, Ben HR EBrock, John ABrooks, Richard, HR EBrown, Taylor, HR EBroyles, Vernon, HR PBruchey, Wayne HR EBurgess, Sid, HR ECarl, Bill ECarleton, Rhon HR ECarter, Clyde HR ECasey, Lydia PChandler, Doris EChaney, Patsy HR PChinula, Donald PCho, Timothy AClark, Molly HR PClayton, Susan AClendenin, Monty HR ECoker, Jeff HR ECopeland, Brian PCrutchfield, Bob HR E Dantzler, Bill HR EDavis, Becky PDippenaar, Vic PDuke, Mickey HR EDurham, Charles HR PDurham, Erica EEdwards, Robert EEphraim, James AEpting, Bobbie PFeagin, Debbie PFrease, Matthew EFree, Zana AGenau, Joe P

Goodlet James PGoodrich, Cat PGoodrich, Elizabeth PHanna, Richard AHarmon, Dawson, HR EHay, Robert PHayes, Jeff AHibbard, Norman HR EHomer, John HR EHoop, Cathy PHurley, Ed PHurst, Clyce HR EInman, Robert F. HR EJaphet, Catherine AJeong, Junmo AJones, Steve PKang, JD AKelso, Hugh, HR EKesler, Randy EKim, Sung Woong PKim, Young EKnox, Harold HR ELaney, Susan, HR EMcCarter, Neil HR PMcClendon, Bruce EMcClure, John EMcCollum, Sid, HR EMcCormick, Mark PMcElrath, Pete HR EMcElveen, William HR EMcLaughlin, Wayne, HR EMcKean, Mac HR EMoon, Hak Bae AMullins, Bill HR EMylalsingh, Emerson HR ENewland, Terry ENorthen, Margaret HR EO’Neill, Elizabeth POh, Jyung, Ho AOliver, Catherine PPatton, Finley HR EPatton, Roger HR E

Penson, Gozie HR EPope, Sam EPorter, Mary HR PPrice, Sandra HR EPyburn, Richard, HR ERains, Tom HR EReddick, Ross EReed, Leanne AReed, Kathy EReed, Nick PReid, Joe AScarbrough, Leeann PScrivner, Joe PSellers, Lou Ann PShelton, Jack HR ESeitz, Craig, HR PSims, Charles HR PSlane, Joe ESpeaker, Cary HR EStanford, Jim HR EStephens, Dan EStephens, Gerald HR ETaylor, Sherwood HR EThompson, Ben HR ETice, Lisa ETingle, Terry HR ETodd, Taylor ATruesdell, Jim ATurner, Lucy EWade, Lindsey PWaters, Dana HR PWatson, Cody EWebster, J. Shannon PWells, Jim, HR EWilkins, Jay PWills, Bill, HR PWinter, Rachel PWinter, Tom HR PWinton, Carlton, HR EYarboro, Jonathan P

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Commission Ruling Elders with VotePresent (5) Excused (1) Absent (3)

Arellano, Ben P Haynes, Ernie PBonner, Jeff P Harrison, John ADodson, Beverly P Sauser, Bill EEich, Sharon A. A Veasey, Lin PEmerick, Robert A

Executive Council Members/Presbytery Officers w/VotePresent (8) Excused (1)

Carter, Eva P Hamrick, Debbie PFrennea, Rick P Jenkins, Tyler EToomey, Jim P

Christian Educators, Presbyterian Women, CPM and Trustees Moderator w/VoteJenny Thagard P Bill Stribling P Dotty Lessley P Bill Christians P

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EldersNumber in parenthesis by church name indicates the number of commissioners authorized.

“NR” indicates that the church did not have elder representation. There are seventy-nine churches in Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley. Thirty-seven Commissioners were present.

Alexander City First (1) NRAnnemanie Arlington (1) NRAnniston Church of the Covenant (1) Janet BainAnniston Church of the Good Shepherd (1) NRAnniston First (1) NRAnniston First United (1) NRAnniston Korean (1) NRAuburn First (2) Carolyn Williams

NRBessemer Good Hope (1) NRBirmingham Bold Springs (1) NRBirmingham Bryan Memorial (1) NRBirmingham Center Point (1) NRBirmingham Chapel in the Pines (1) Ron SnellBirmingham Edgewood (1) Marilyn JacksonBirmingham Fairfield Highlands (1) NRBirmingham First (1) Mark AldridgeBirmingham First United of Forestdale (1) NRBirmingham Five Mile (1) Charlotte BruceBirmingham Independent (5) Lee Walthall

Edward WilsonKathy ThomsasJean ShanksH.M. Reeves

Birmingham Korean (1) NRBirmingham Mountain Brook (1) NRBirmingham Oakmont (1) Judy MannBirmingham Riverchase (1) Linda CooganBirmingham Second (1) Catherine Rodenhauser Birmingham Shades Valley (1) Laura Y. McDonald Birmingham South Highland (2) Cathie Bonner

Robert HunterBirmingham Southminster (1) Gretchen CloudBirmingham Westminster (1) Lorino HendricksCuba Cuba (1) NRCamden New Trinity (1) NRCarbon Hill First (1) NRDadeville First (1) Evelyn PangburnDadeville Woods (1) NREufaula First (1) NR Gardendale Gardendale (1) Rodney MewbourneGoodwater First (1) NRGreen Pond Green Pond (1) NRJacksonville First (1) Bonnie G. SeymourLafayette Lebanon (1) NRLeeds Leeds (1) NR Livingston First (1) Molly DormanMagnolia Rock Springs (1) NRMarion Junction Marion Junction (1) NRMcCalla Shepherd of the Valley (1) NR

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Montevallo Montevallo (1) NRMontgomery Calvary NRMontgomery Immanuel (1) Bill SuttonMontgomery Korean (1) NRMontgomery Memorial (1) Sarah Gay EdwardsMontgomery Westminster (1) Joe NicholsonMoundville Saint James (1) NRNorthport Bethel (1) Thomas Horace AllenOdenville Odenville (1) NROpelika Korean NROxford Dodson Memorial (1) NRPhenix City First (1) Thomas PeavyPiedmont First (1) NRPlantersville Mount Pleasant (1) NRReform First (1) NRSelma Northern Heights (1) Barbara FearsSelma Pisgah (1) NRSelma Valley Creek (1) NRSpringville Springville (1) NRSylacauga First (1) Dorothy KelsoTalladega First (1) Barbara HowardTroy Williams Memorial (1) NRTrussville Cahaba Springs (1) NRTuscaloosa Brown Memorial (1) NRTuscaloosa Covenant (1) Doris P. FloraTuscaloosa First (3) Sydney Cook

Vickie HoltGay Lake, Jr.

Tuscaloosa Korean (1) Duke ParkTuscaloosa University (1) Ralph LaneTuskegee First (1) NRTuskegee Ramsay Memorial (1) NRTuskegee Institute Westminster (1) Donna WashingtonUnion Springs Union Springs (1) NRWetumpka First (1) Curt Johnson

The assembly was called to worship by Donna Winn and joined in reading responsively from verses adapted from Psalm 27, then joined in singing For Everyone Born. We were led in confessing our sin then assured of God’s pardon by Joe Scrivner*. Vicki Holt prayed the prayer for illumination then read Psalm 27

The Gospel reading, Mark 2:1-12, was read by Rev. Lou Ann Sellers, whose sermon was titled, “We have Never Seen Anything Like This!”

The Necrology report (see Appendix B) was read by Stated Clerk, Tom Winter, *who then invited those gathered to sing In the Bulb There Is a Flower.

The offering collected today will be divided equally between the discretionary fund of the Transitional Presbyter and the Commission on Preparation for Ministry.

Cathy Hoop* and James Goodlet* presided at the Lord’s Table. After all were served the final two verses of For Everyone Born were sung.

Jay Wilkins*, Transitional Presbyter, introduced today’s Open Space Conversation that involved the Identity Statement for the Presbytery.

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The Presbytery of Sheppards and LapsleyPartner with and equip present and emergingPC(USA) faith communities in central Alabamato serve Christ and our neighbors.

As way of background Jay reminded us that this discussion came from the open space conversations held at the November meeting of presbytery where folks gathered to give their input as to what the mission of this presbytery is or hopes to be. Jay reminded us that any organization should be able to articulate its mission or vision in eight words according to some. How would we describe this presbytery in no more than eight words? The statement should have a verb, identify the target audience and indicate the difference we want to make. The goal is to find a statement that we are able to say and to use and in the end focus our energy and resources to live out the statement. It will have implications about staffing, office space, funding of projects and what we do as this body of Presbyterians in central Alabama.

How do we serve Christ and our neighbors? Who are our neighbors? How are we called to serve Christ in that setting and with those people? Each congregation is called to identify who it is that their hearts break for.

Present and emerging – What emerging ministries are there from your church? Where is God working in your faith community and how do we support that? How does the presbytery come along side and support you? How may be we assist in equipping your congregation for ministry? Presbytery does not direct but rather supports and equips the saints for good work. This is about relationships, not a hierarchy. Disciples are called “partners” in ministry. “We” collectively seek to partner with each other to serve Christ.

Members of the Executive Council captured some of the input from various groups gathered and shared what they had heard.

Rick Frennea – Who DO we serve? Gardendale PC – everything’s good in Gardendale so we go into B’ham to serve. How do we find our neighbors who need help? In Mt. Brook you go from an affluent suburb of Bham and some of the problems in Mt. Brook are hidden below the surface. There may be issues of domestic violence and addiction yet we don’t talk about that so how do we serve those people and meet those needs. Covenant-Anniston is surrounded by many small communities. How do we make contact? How do we attract them to our community of faith?

Eva Carter – Neighbors? Who are they? Neighbors in Wetumpka are Wind Creek Casino because they are the largest employer in the area. There are court ordered programs: Anger management. Shelby County Safe House Ministry. At Brown Memorial – there is a Stillman College Sunday School class just for college students. Students are singing in choir. This group also talked about the Firehouse Shelter in B’ham. Neighbors do not have to be in our immediate vicinity.

Bobbie Epting – This group discussed residential un-churched people / social justice issues; equipping partners to advocate resources in what we share in ministry; OGHS; SDOP; programming for community resources of volunteers.

Cat Goodrich – child development centers; how do we gain support from the presbytery; UAB campus ministry; First Light; Presbyterian Home for Children; combined youth programs; churches can serve even more faithfully.

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Lou Ann Sellers – Coming together of Covenant and FPC, Tuscaloosa to minister together; where are our hopeless neighbors? The shelter here is just now being rebuilt after the tornado. Sometimes people come by to get help from the food pantry but we don’t always know where they are to reach out to these neighbors on a deeper level.

Jay sharing resources; coming together; finding excitement when we come together should always be our goal. Full report of the Transitional Presbyter is attached to this document.

The Hunger Action Advocate, Linda Burrowes, reported that $7800 was collected in 2015 of which 50% stays here in this presbytery and 50% goes to GA. Only 11 churches participated last year. We are hoping that in 2016 you will join in this worthwhile ministry. The members of Southminster and Shades Valley collected the most money in 2015. They received a plaque to take back to their church. In addition, two churches that gave the most according to size of membership were First, Eufaula and Green Pond and they received awards as well. [see Appendix C]

Linda offered a prayer of thanksgiving and blessing over the food prepared for us.

The meeting was temporarily suspended for lunch.

The meeting was called back to order at 1:00pm.

At the beginning of the meeting the Stated Clerk asked if anyone who had news to share from their church would be invited to share a one-minute synopsis of their good news. Patsy Chaney shared about a group of retired ministers going to Cuba. Beverly Dodson shared that Green Pond would be celebrating180 years of ministry. Brian Copeland, First Eufaula, shared about their Living Waters for the world trip. Cat Goodrich, Caleb Carter and Joe Genau talked about the beginnings of campus ministry at UAB. Kathy from Memorial, Montgomery, spoke of sharing space with Westminster and how they are celebrating ministry together. Joe Nicholson, Westminster, Montgomery, shared about the hospitality they have felt from the people of Memorial. Kathy Brock, South Highland, spoke of the water and Power-aid station they provided for the Mercedes Marathon. Rick Frennea spoke about the outreach work being done at Riverchase, where a logo was produced depicting the Vine and branches. Rick is an elder at Edgewood but does this type of design work as a gift to the church. Cathy Hoop, University, Tuscaloosa, spoke of combining ministry opportunities with Covenant and discussing the potential of merging into one church. Valley Creek will be celebrating 200 years of ministry in May of this year.

Board of Pensions – Clark SimmonsClark brought greetings and good news from the Board and offered that the plan is now valued at 8.2 billion dollars. In 2016 the medical dues remain the same. There may be changes in the plan for 2017 in regard to lay employees. They are moving toward plans that more closely resemble what insurance companies in the secular market are doing. He encouraged everyone in the plan to participate in the Call to Health in order to reduce deductibles next year. Money going into the 403(b) is not federally tax nor is there social security tax. He invited folks to call him with any questions.

Executive Council Report – Lin Veasey [full report appears as Appendix D]

1. Second Vote on Standing Rules -- Amend SR-4.0101b by adding a new No. 5 to read:

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At the first meeting of the year, the incoming moderator will nominate three persons for election to the Bills and Overtures Committee to serve for a period of one year. The nominations will consist of one male teaching elder, one female teaching elder, and one ruling elder. One of the three will be a racial/ethnic person. If by reason of absence or other circumstance, a member cannot serve at a given meeting, the moderator will nominate for election a replacement to serve at that meeting only.2. Renumber current No. 5 to No. 6The motion carried.

Lin introduced Ralls Coston who will serve as the new Volunteer Mission Coordinator.

Following the approval of the above reference change in the Standing Rules, Joe Scrivner* made the motion that the sentence that states “One of the three will be a racial/ethnic person” to “The three nominees shall not all be from the same race or ethnicity.” The motion received a second and was approved. This will be considered the first reading and this change in wording will be voted on in totality at the May meeting of presbytery.

Stillman College Initiative – Charles Durham*Charlie shared the history of the beginnings of educating the African American people in the Tuscaloosa area that eventually evolved into Stillman College. Stillman is the only African American institute of higher learning that receives funds each year from the Joy Gift Offering. Three members of presbytery are currently teaching at Stilman. Only 10% of those in the student body are able to pay their tuition. The endowment is very small and there is great need for additional support. On May 19th a banquet will be held to celebrate the work being done at the college. Dr. Condoleeza Rice will be the keynote speaker and everyone is invited and encouraged to join the celebration.

Congo Report – Belinda DickinsonBelinda offered thanks for the support the Congo mission has received in the past and encouraged everyone to contact the presbytery office to set up a time for them to come to your church to talk about the work being done. She offered thanks to Jay and Robert for the encouragement and the great ideas they’ve offered. When William Sheppards and Samuel Lapsley arrived in the Congo they came to share the Good News of the Gospel with the people of the Congo. The largest Presbyterian congregation in the world at one time was in the Congo.The Presbyterian Mission is calling people to follow Christ; translating spoken language into writing has been a priority; opening schools and providing medical care to the people there by opening clinics and hospitals is a priority. Our presbytery took the name Sheppards & Lapsley in 1988 and reminds us of the work that began more than a century before that. Slides were shown of the work being done there along with estimates of the financial backing necessary to build new schools there.

Youth Council – Neeley Rentz-LaneNeeley is the director of youth ministry at FPC, Tuscaloosa. She spoke of the two retreats that she has attended since coming here. She stated that she was in awe of the work of the youth in this presbytery. She reminded the assembly of the upcoming opportunities for youth in the presbytery.

Small Church Ministry Task Team – Neil McCarter*The definition of “small church” is one where attendance is 100 or less. Neil stated that in his opinion there’s nothing like a small church where relationships in the body of Christ are nurtured

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and encouraged. In January over 100 people came to Living River to participate in leadership training together. Learning in the context of joining together in ministry can be great fun! There are events being planned for small churches that will be facilitated by Robert Hay, Jr. with the Presbyterian Foundation.

Camp – Patti Winter and Pat GoodmanThere is great excitement about the upcoming summer’s camping program. They spoke about concerns that parent’s might have that have been and will continue to be addressed by Living River. They talked about the volunteer co-directors and the amazing gifts they will bring. Among the directors there are decades of camping experience. There are opportunities for young adults to participate as summer staff. The costs of camps are competitive with other camping programs. They invited everyone to advertise the opportunities available to the children of this presbytery as well as others who might want to attend.

Living River – John Erdman John shared that as of 8am this morning the online registration for camp was up and ready to go. Most of the logistics of opening Living River have been worked out and there are activities going on almost everyday. While they are thrilled that things are up and running they are also looking to make sure that they are a ministry that clearly defines it’s mission, it’s values and addresses how the resources of LR can be used to honor God. The question of why we exist, who are we, and what are all about are constantly in the forefront. How do we answer the call of Jesus and the great commission is a topic that is discussed daily. The discernment process continues and the LR staff and board of directors thanks the people of this presbytery for the faithful support of this ministry.

Commission on Ministry Report – Ben Arellano1. Approve Rev. Becky Davis for retirement effective October 1, 2015. Approved.Leeann Scarbrough shared with the assembly about the life and work that Becky has lived and done. [see Appendix E]2. Memorial for Rev. Sam Nettles [Memorial appears as Appendix F3. Memorial for Rev. Dr. Sam Andreasen [Memorial appears as Appendix G]INFORMATION ITEMS:1. Sustained examination of Lindsey Becker, Chaplain at Children’s Hospital, for her to transfer to Sheppards and Lapsley pending her ordination by her home presbytery in Louisiana.2. Approved Terry Tingle’s contract with First, Anniston.3. Approved renewal of Oakmont’s relationship with Charles Sims, Transitional Pastor, for six months – January 1 – June 30, 2016.4. COM approved the following Churches to continue supply relationships for 2016.

a. Bethel requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Dr. Mark McCormick.b. Bold Springs requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Ernie Haynes.c. Calvary Presbyterian requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Lisa

Winston – no action until she meets with COM.d. Church of the Good Shepherd requests permission to continue their relationship with

Rev. William Nelson for the first quarter of 2016.e. First Carbon Hill requests permission to continue their relationship with Dr. Ken Bentley.f. First Dadeville requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Ben Arellano.g. First Phenix City requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. G. Taylor

Brown.h. First Piedmont requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Gary Black.i. First United Anniston requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Hugh Morris.j. Gardendale requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Jeff Bonner.

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k. Goodwater requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Pete McElrath.l. Green Pond requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Bev Dodson.m. Leeds requests permission to continue their relationship with Jason Odom.n. Marion Junction requests permission to continue their relationship with George Wood.o. Northern Heights requests permission to continue their relationship with Angela Brown

Walker.p. Odenville requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. James Elrod.q. Pisgah requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Ira Blanchard.r. Rockspring requests permission to their relationship with Rev. V. L. Hackworth, Jr.s. Five Mile requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Sharon Eich.t. Springville requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Tom Winter and Rev. Debbie Feagin.u. Valley Creek requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Cecil

Williamson.v. Westminster Tuskegee requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Dr.

Gregory Gray.w. First-Sylacauga requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Jeff Coker.x. Ramsay Memorial requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Elizabeth Whatley.y. Covenant-Tuscaloosa requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Dr.

Neil McCarter.z. Good Hope requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Robert Jones.

aa. Mount Pleasant requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Ira Blanchard.

bb. First-Reform requests permission to continue their relationship with Rev. Dr. Sam Andreasen and Rev. Jerry Douglas. cc. Fairfield Highlands requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE

John Harrison. dd. Woods requests permission to continue their relationship with CRE Ben Arellano.

5. Received and approved CRE report from Dean of Training, Bev Dodson.

Trustee Report – Bill StriblingMOTION:To approve sale of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Montgomery, AL property.The motion was approved.FOR INFORMATION: Trustees will next meet in early March.

Presbytery Owned properties for sale:Trinity, Birmingham – Arise continues to lease and property continues to be actively marketed. One offer about 1/3 of listing price was rejected by Trustees late in 2015.Harper Chapel- Continues for sale, no activity to date.Robinson Memorial – continues for sale, “Several showings. No firm offer.” Repaired steeple leak, $135.

Trustee matters continuing:Bryan Memorial – The attached [see Appendix H] letter was sent to the attorney representing Bryan Memorial to date no response has been received.

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Cemetery separation – Quit claim deed filed in Bibb County for Green Pond Presbyterian Cemetery Perpetual Care Trust. Quit Claim deed filed in Chambers county for Lebanon Presbyterian Church. Effort continues with others.First Presbyterian Tuskegee – Once Presbytery dissolves this church Trustees will be able to move forward to dispose of the property. Ben Arellano will work within COM to get the necessary action. Korean Presbyterian Church of Tuscaloosa mortgage – A request to alter terms of their mortgage has been received. The church will be supplying financial documents to support the request. Resource Center – Materials available to Clergy, CRE’s, Seminarians, and churches. Excess and outdated material will, in consultation with interested parties, be disposed of after June 1,

Committee on Nomination and Representation – Jeff Bonner1. We place in nomination the following persons to serve as commissioners to the General Assembly in 2016:

Noah Foster – Immanuel (YAD)Rachel Matthews – Nominated by Columbia Theological Seminary, as

Theological Student Advisory Delegate (TSAD)2. We place in nomination the following person to serve on the Board of the Presbyterian Home for Children:

Al Hill – South Highland3. We place in nomination the following person to serve as Synod Representative during 2016.

Eva Carter – Westminster, BirminghamMotion was approved.

Commission on Preparation for Ministry [see Appendix I]

Synod Report [see Appendix J]

Stated Clerk Report – Tom Winter*For Omnibus Motion:

1. Approval of the November 12, 2015, presbytery minutes.2. Approval of requests for absence for our February 18, 2016, meeting.3. In conjunction with COM, approve Goodwater Presbyterian’s request for

an exemption of rotation of elders for one year per Book of Order G-2.0404, due to size of membership.

4. Transfer the membership of Ms. Donna Warren from the rolls of Presbytery to Cornerstone Presbyterian Church.

The Omnibus Motion was approved.

To Record as Information:1. In accordance with presbytery Standing Rules, there is no imbalance between teaching

and ruling elders.2. Clerk of Session training for new clerks (and others who desire training) will be held at

the presbytery office on Saturday, February 27, 10 a.m. – noon. This meeting is for training only. Presbytery review of minutes will take place later at four churches in different locations of presbytery.

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This year we will be experimenting with a new method of reviewing minutes. Most of you are familiar with a checklist of items which need to be covered in your minutes. This year each clerk will fill out the checklist of his/her own minutes before you bring them for review by another clerk.

3. 2016 presbytery meetings:February 18, First Presbyterian, Tuscaloosa.May14 (Saturday), South Highland Presbyterian, Birmingham(We have the pleasure of hosting PC(USA) moderator Heath Rada at this meeting)August 18, Edgewood, BirminghamNovember 10, First Presbyterian, Wetumpka

4. The Clerk thanks the 70 sessions who have paid their per capita for 2015 enabling the work of the larger church to continue. Seven sessions have not paid their per capita for the year.

5. The deadline to enter your church’s statistics was Feb. 8, 2016. Please contact Linda Burrowes at the Presbytery Office if you have not submitted your statistics.

6. The Stated Clerk received an Administrative Commission Report from Westminster- Montgomery.

Reports from Administrative Commissions [see Appendix K]

Presbyterian Home for Children – Mark HowardThe Presbyterian Home for Children celebrates their relationship with this presbytery. The Home has entered into partnership with First Light Shelter for Women and Children. Together they have done such amazing work. First Light has offered an abundance of insight and encouragement. By joining together they are surely stronger than they would be apart. Amazing blessings have been felt. When homeless children who have all that they own in garbage bags, what a blessing it is to see these same children decorating Christmas trees and riding bicycles on campus. On behalf of Alabama’s children who have no vote and no voice, Mark thanked the body for being a blessing to them.

The February Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley was closed with prayers offered by Rev. Shannon Webster at 2:50pm. The next Stated Meeting will be held on Saturday, May 14 at South Highland Presbyterian Church.

Respectfully submitted,

Rev. Thomas WinterStated Clerk

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Appendix A

THE MODERATOR’S CROSSPresbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley

By: Dean Vandegrift

In 1988 the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley was formed and elected its first moderator.

Frank Vandegrift, a member of First Presbyterian Church, Auburn, Alabama and a veteran of many years of Presbyterian mission work in the Congo, had a cross fashioned by local artist Howard Wadsworth. It was given to be worn about the neck by each successive moderator of the presbytery and includes a three-inch copper cross and blue trading beads.

The copper cross was cut from a larger cross used at one time by the Congolese in the Kasai Region of Zaire for currency. One such cross which dates from the time when William Henry Sheppard, Lucy Gantt Sheppard, and Samuel Norvell Lapsley established the Congo mission, hangs in our presbytery office. Hot molten metal was poured into sand molds to form the crosses.

The blue trading beads, known as mutunda, came from Bibanga, also in Zaire. Some of these beads were sent to the University of Johannesburg (Witwatersrand University) and the following reply was given by Dr. Van-Riet-Lowe, Head of the Department of Archeology: “The chain of mutunda beads sent…from Bibanga are typical Venetian dark blue annulars which were used by the Arabs as trade goods down the East coast of Africa during the centuries until comparatively recently. The specimens sent me, however, are so worn and old that they may well be medieval. Similar types are common in Zimbabwe, ruins of Southern Rhodesia and Northern Transvaal. We have specimens of these beads from Uganda, Kenya, Nyssaland, and the Rhodesiss and elsewhere, and your donation forms a valuable link with the Congo.”

The Moderator’s Cross symbolizes our presbytery’s commitment to mission, especially our mission past, present, and future in the Congo region. We are reminded that William Sheppard and Samuel Lapsley, from whom our presbytery got its name, both had strong ties to churches and institutions within the bounds of this presbytery and were the first Presbyterian missionaries to carry the Gospel message to what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo.

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Appendix B

Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley2015 Necrology

MinistersRev. John Toppins – February 11Rev. Leland M. Laack – April 14

Rev. Samuel Roscoe Nettles, Jr. – November 19

Ruling Elders

Bold SpringsLeonard Cowling – May 29, 2014Mary “Bettye” Bailey – Sept. 29

Cahaba SpringsDr. Fred Dauser – July 19

Dr. Hunter Pope – August 5Jack Bailey – September 11

Covenant—TuscaloosaDodd Sellers – March 4John Burton – March 5

Walter Andress – October 14James Smith – December 28

First-Alexander CityRobert Sandlin White – October 18

First-BirminghamKatherine Riddell – February 11

Jeremiah Abbott – March 8Verdie M. Holt – April 8

Frances C. Duncan – May 3Charles H. Moses, Jr. – July 17

First-DadevilleMartha K. Hall – November 15

First-EufaulaMary Ann Bowden – January 14Don Claybaugh – February 13

Mary Frances Ramsey – May 13First-Jacksonville

Kenneth Mount – March 12Lee Roy Manners – December 1

First-SylacaugaAlberta Turner – March 20Robert Arnold – August 1

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First-TuscaloosaMartha Seals – March 10

Barbara Scarbrough – September 10Mary Elsie Pow – December 1

First United-AnnistonBooker Sampson, Jr. – July 9

Five MileJames Leon Wilson – June 21

Mary Ellen Tucker Allen – August 15

IndependentMr. R.M. Sharp – March 30

Mrs. W.F. Edmonds (Joan McCoy) – July 15Mr. Raymond W. Terry, Jr. – July 15

Marion JunctionAubrey Maurice Rush, Jr. – March 11

Mountain BrookHerbert C. England – May 10

RiverchaseAnn Gardner – October 28

Shades ValleyJack MacKay – February 17Wendell Kirk – February 20

Don Meacham – April 18Larry Richardson – April 26

John Vos – May 27Jeanine (Kitten) Burge – October 2

Earle Gray – December 23

SouthminsterJoseph S. Ragan, Jr. – March 21Carolyn Savage Jordan – July 7

Union SpringsMargaret S. Varner – September 19

Valley CreekSeleta Belle Cook Llewellyn – March 15

Westminster, MontgomeryMary Jean Montgomery Chambless – January 3

Robert Lynn Wolfe, Sr. – June 14

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Appendix C

Thank You to the Following Churches for ParticipatingIn the Presbytery’s Cents-Ability Offering

Dodson MemorialFirst-EufaulaFive MileGardendaleGreen PondNorthern Heights

OakmontPresbyterian WomenShades ValleySouthminsterWestminster-Birmingham

Because of their generosity we were able to distribute funds to the following food agencies:

Anniston Soup BowlBosco NurtritionBridge MinistriesBrown Bag ProjectBullock Co. Food Care HouseCenter of ConcernChristian Love PantryCommunity EnablerCommunity Food BankCommunity Soup BowlCrisis Center of Russell Co.DHR-Sumter CountyEACMElmore County Food PantryFamily Service CenterFirst LightGood Samaritan MinistriesGreater B’ham Ministries

Jacksonville Christian OutreachLazarus SocietyLeeds OutreachLoaves and Fishes MinistryMontgomery Food BankOak Mountain Mission MinistriesPleasant Hill Methodist Food PantryPresbyterian Home for ChildrenRed Door KitchenSelma Area Food BankStop Hunger NowTallapoosa Christian Crisis CtrTEAMTemporary Emerg of TuscThe Ministry Ctr at Green SpringsUnited WayUniversity Church Food PantryWest Alabama Food Bank

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Appendix D

Executive Council for Information:

The EC has met three times since our November presbytery meeting so graciously hosted by the Presbyterian Home for Children. Much of our work in December focused on notes from the conversations that were held during our World Café process, a time of guided questioning and discussion which were part of our meeting from November 12th in Talladega.  Dr. Wilkins and the EC facilitators found this activity to be very helpful and greatly appreciated the engaged participation by the presbytery.

The end of 2015 brought great sadness and shock when Executive Council elder and Living River board member James Smith passed away after ever increasing health difficulties. James had a passionate spirit for the work of this presbytery, particularly in our nurture programming related to youth and camping. With his legal background James, would offer thoughtful guidance and direction to both the EC and Living River, and he was always to be trusted when there were questions related to the parliamentary process.   While we know with confidence that James is embraced by the fullness of God’s grace and glory through our Savior Christ Jesus, please join us in thought and prayer as we continue to lift up his daughter Anna Marie.

In mid January the EC was privileged to have a retreat at our own Living River. This day allowed us to continue the good work started by the World Café discussions and to introduce new board members Rev. Shannon Webster and Rick Reed to the other EC members (Eva Carter and Lou Ann Sellers have graciously committed to stay and complete new terms on the EC). This beginning of the year working retreat allowed an opportunity to find new leadership positions and committee assignments as follows: Rev. Lou Ann Sellers will move into the role of EC Moderator after her term as Moderator of the Presbytery is finished in February; Outgoing EC Moderator Lin Veasey will fill the remaining two years of James Smith’s term on the Living River board; Eva Carter will be chair of the PS&L Personnel Committee; Rev. Bobbie Epting will continue her very capable work as Finance Committee chair, and Bev Dodson will remain as the liaison to the Trustees from EC.Additional EC members will serve on these and other Task Teams of the EC.

After a wonderful luncheon provided by the Living River staff, Dr. Wilkins provided a visioning framework for our season of transition, focused on creating an identity statement drawing on words used and ideas expressed in the November World Café discussions.  This work will continue into February and come back to the presbytery in an Open Space time.

The February 8th meeting of the EC handled a great deal of business. During opening lunch Ralls Coston was introduced to the EC and he shared his interest in mission. A member of the Oakmont congregation, Ralls will serve during the year of 2016 as the PS&L Mission Coordinator.

After an exciting overview of some new and quickly developing college ministry efforts in Birmingham, the EC voted to form a Task Team of Cat Goodrich, Ben Acton, Robert Hay, Rachel Winter, Joe Genau, Susannah Christians, and at least one college student to explore funding, staffing, and ministries models.

In response to a grant proposal from the Congo Mission Team, Bobbie Epting offered a motion to move $16,000 from an account for missions to the Congo Team’s efforts for raising funds to construct two schools. The $16,000 represents 10% of the cost of building the two schools.  It was explained that there is no longer a functioning mission partnership in Mexico and these funds could be used directly in the Congo with trusted oversight. The motion passed and it is

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hoped that PS&L congregations continue to support this valuable work and partnership by continuing to raise funds so that the two schools will be completed as soon as possible.

Eva Carter expressed the need for more members on the Personnel Committee. The Nominating and Representation Committee will be informed of the need so that they may begin to propose additional names for both Personnel and Finance.

Work continues for the Stillman College Task Team and they are seeking to re-establish a covenantal relationship with the synod. More information about a significant fund raiser will be forthcoming as details are finalized. The EC thanks those involved with the work of this important Task Team.

The EC also received a grant proposal from the Rev. James Goodlet about an exciting new ministry unfolding in Tuscaloosa, UPERK. The response to the proposal was very positive and the EC will use the next month to seek the best funding options available and provide details at the May presbytery meeting.

The Task Team on Child Protection Policies have examined a variety of policies and best practices from other presbyteries and is hopeful that a policy will be finalized to present at the May presbytery meeting.

Dr. Wilkins facilitated discussions related to the development of the Identity Statement. Open Space in the February PS&L presbytery meeting will offer the commissioners an opportunity to contribute to how we live out this statement.  

Work continues on clarifying relationships with Living River especially related to the vital ministry of the Summer Camping program. An agreement for Rev. Robert Hay’s responsibilities in his role as Coordinating Executive to Living River was shared with the EC. This document was created from efforts of the Personnel Committee of LR, Jay, and Robert (other areas of Rev. Hay’s vital work in his role of Nurture Executive remain unchanged for the presbytery).  These efforts should help to clarify Robert’s role and the responsibilities of the presbytery to the Summer Camping Program at Living River. The presbytery Camp Committee continues to offer great service in coordination with the Program of Living River for a wonderful camping season in 2016.

The next EC meeting is tentatively scheduled for March 2nd at the presbytery office.

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Appendix E

Retirement Recognition for Emily Rebecca Davis

Emily Rebecca Davis was born in and raised in Bessemer, AL and baptized and nurtured in First Presbyterian Church there.Becky attended The University of Alabama where she got a degree in education and where she met her future husband. While he was in medical school she taught high school English in Bessemer.She took a long break from teaching to have and raise three children. After they were all in school she went back herself for a Masters in Special Education and became the teacher of gifted students in the Talladega City School System. This suited her well because she could craft her own curriculum. She took her students on star gazing trips, had them write and perform their own plays, and even had a pseudo archeological dig in her backyard one year. Years later she began to feel the pull toward a vocation in ministry, and the call became clear to her when she visited Columbia Seminary with her daughter, Anne, when she was contemplating attending. Anne instead went on to med school, but the visit cemented the call in Becky’s life and about a year later she began her studies at Columbia. Being a life-long learner, she loved the course of study and excelled at it while also being a regular volunteer at the Open Door. She returned to Talladega to become the first-ever chaplain at the Presbyterian Home for Children. Later she entered a CPE program and became the chaplain at Citizens Hospital in Talladega. After a few years her professional work was interrupted by a bout of colon cancer, but her ministry continued as she inspired all those who reached out to help her. They usually found themselves being the recipients of the gospel from Becky as she lived it and continues to live it.After her successful treatment Becky was called to the Dodson Memorial PC in Oxford where she loved and was loved for many years. Now in her honorable retirement Becky gets to spend her time doing the things she enjoys—eating well, drinking nice wine, Pilates, social activism and enriching the lives of her three grandchildren.Thanks be to God for the past and continuing ministry of Becky Davis!

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Appendix F

MEMORIAL FOR REVEREND SAMUEL ROSCOE NETTLES, JR.

Reverend Samuel Roscoe Nettles, Jr., age 81, of Tuscaloosa, Al., went to be with the Lord on November 19, 2015 after a short illness.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Judge Samuel Roscoe Nettles, Sr., and his mother Rose Beard Nettles, both from Meridian, MS. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Gloria Smoot Nettles of Tuscaloosa; sons, Samuel Roscoe Nettles III and Patrick Shelby Nettles, both of Tuscaloosa; sister, Jo Ellen Cantey of Meridian, MS; along with several nephews and many cousins.

Sam was born April 10, 1934 in Meridian, MS., where he attended school through high school. He graduated from King College in Bristol, TN., and Columbia Seminary with a Masters in Clinical Theology.

Sam informed his parents at the age of 4 that he desired to be a minister of the church. He was an active member of the Tuscaloosa Kiwanis Club and participated in their prison enrichment program and school literacy program.

He served as pastor to Trinity Church of Canton, Woodstock, GA; Clifton Road Church, Atlanta; Henry Memorial Church, Woodstock, GA; Bethel Church, Northport; and Cuba Church, Cuba, AL; and has been a chaplain at Bryce Hospital from 1974-2013.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

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Appendix G

Memorial for Rev. Dr. Sam Andreasen

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Appendix H

December 15, 2015

Jim Pino, Esq.Jim Pino & Associates, P.C.363 Canyon Park DrivePelham, Alabama 35124

Re: Bryan Memorial Presbyterian ChurchYour File No.: 15-cd-4107

Dear Jim:

Along with Butch Ellis, I represent the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley. In that regard, your letter dated August 28, 2015 to Reverend Thomas Winter has been referred to us for a response.

It has been our experience that when churches differ over the direction their ministry should take, litigation should be a last resort rather than a first option. While the Presbytery views your threat of litigation seriously, it also knows and believes the individual congregates of the Bryan Memorial Presbyterian Church to be men and women of reason.

To be sure, there is sufficient legal authority for lawyers to debate the merits of one particular position over another. Certainly, it comes as no surprise to your congregates that all property held by or for a congregation is held in trust for the use and benefit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). It is the Presbytery’s hope and belief that despite our clients’ differences, there is nevertheless sufficient common ground to find both pre-litigation compromise and long-term peace of mind for all. As a consequence, may we suggest sitting down across the table to attempt a solution short of litigation before litigation inevitably ensues.

I look forward to hearing a favorable response, once you have had an opportunity to pause and consider the battle scars left by litigation with the good people of your church.

Very truly yours,

J. Bentley Owens, III

JBO/kf

cc: Frank C. Ellis, Jr., Esq.

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Appendix I

THE PRESBYTERY OF SHEPPARDS AND LAPSLEYREPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY

February, 2016

FOR INFORMATION:

INQUIRERS CHURCH INSTITUTIONBennett Alldredge FPC, Tuscaloosa PrincetonCourtney Bowen IPC, Birmingham LouisvilleRachel VanKirk Mathews FPC, Tuscaloosa ColumbiaAlfred Rose First, Birmingham Graduate (Union)Mary Sellers Shaw IPC, Birmingham Vanderbilt Divinity

CANDIDATESMicah Dowling Cahaba Springs, Trussville ColumbiaRebecca Mann Immanuel, Montgomery Graduate (Columbia)Leigh Ann Min First, Birmingham Graduate (Columbia)

FOR INFORMATION: At his request, the commission accepted the withdrawal of Inquirer Sherrad Hayes from the ordination process.

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Appendix J

Report to Presbytery onAnnual Meeting of Synod of Living Waters

 January 25, 2016

 Commissioners Eva Carter and Neil McCarter offer the following report of highlights of the annual meeting of the Synod of Living Waters which occurred at the First Presbyterian Church in Franklin, TN.  --Don Payne, retiring Moderator, called the meeting to order and preached the sermon in worship calling upon all participants to engage more fully in Jesus’ ministry of inclusion of all persons in the mission of the Church. The offering of $548.00 received in worship was designated for Stillman College. --The Synod elected the Rev. Ann Kelly, Teaching Elder Commissioner from St. Andrew Presbytery,as Moderator and  Ralph Young, Ruling Elder Commissioner from Western Kentucky Presbytery as Vice Moderator for 2016.    --Stated Clerk Richard Borie reported on the results of the reading of the minutes of member presbyteries. The results were outstanding with only five exceptions and two comments reported for the minutes for all presbytery meetings in 2014. Minutes from eight of the twelve presbyteries received no exceptions or comments. The body adopted the Synod per capita of $3.62 for 2016.  --Terry Newland, Synod Executive, led the assembly in examination of the Treasurer’s report.  Synod ended the year with a small surplus in operating funds.  He also reported that Living Waters for the World had ended the year with a small surplus.  --The Permanent Administrative Commission recommended that the 2016 budgets for the Synod and Living Waters for the World be adopted and the body did so.  The body also adopted the recommendations from the PAC regarding changes to the Standing Rules. Those changes are: (1) to define the years in which presbyteries elect Synod commissioners; (2) to change the year of election for Permanent Judicial Commission members from even to odd numbered years. The body also approved the recommendation that the next meeting date of Synod be January 30, 2017. --The Rev. Dr. Mark McCormick, Professor at Stillman College, brought greetings from the College to the body. He noted in his presentation that Stillman is now the only Historically Black College or University to receive a portion of the annual Joy Gift offering. The College uses this gift and others to serve the particular population of students enrolled at the college: 95% of students receive financial aid; 80% of students come from families below the federal poverty line; and only 10% of these students can pay tuition at registration. The College will soon celebrate the 140th anniversary of its founding.  --Steve Young, Executive Director of LWW, reported on the activities for 2015. It was a good year. Mr. Young reminded the gathering that the technology for supplying a community with clean water is important. Just as important is empowering leaders in these communities. He reported that the Board of Directors has decided that for the future, LWW will enter into covenant relationship only with initiating partners that plan to work with LWW’s networks. The reason for this decision is to maintain the ability to support effectively initiating and operating partners in their quest towards independence and sustainability.  

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 --Bligh Jones, Presbyterian Women Moderator, reported on the continuing, vital work of Presbyterian Women in the churches of the Synod.  Planning for the Triennial Gathering to be held in Franklin, TN, June 8-11, 2016, is continuing. The theme is “Follow Me” based on Matthew 4:19. The women’s study for 2016-17, “Who Is Jesus?,” will be introduced at the event.  The Nominating Committee report was adopted. The moderators of the standing committees of the Synod are: Committee on Representation, Eva Carter; Nominating Committee, Martha Knichel; Communications, Leonard Jordan; Covenant Relations, Neil McCarter; and Ministry Partnership, Ralph Young.  The body recognized with a standing ovation Dr. Dick Borie for his years of service as Stated Clerk. Terry Newland was elected to serve as Stated Clerk. Respectfully submitted, Eva Carter Neil McCarter

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Appendix K

ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSIONFor

WESTMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, MONTGOMERY ALABAMA

Summary of the Administrative Commission’s WorkAs of January 25, 2016

Since the October 2015 report to Presbytery, the Administrative Commission has been in prayer for the pastor, session and congregation of Westminster Presbyterian Church Montgomery.

1. Westminster Presbyterian Church, Montgomery, held its last worship service in the property located on Woodley Road on December 27, 2015. They are now “abiding” with Memorial Presbyterian Church in Montgomery. Westminster is maintaining a separate identity, holding separate worship services and Sunday School. They have chosen to participate with Memorial for special activities such as fellowship dinners, etc.

2. Trustees are continuing to clear the way to sell the Woodley Road property to a nonprofit hospice. Originally, Trinity Presbyterian Church deeded the Westminster property with the stipulation that it would only be used for a church. Westminster Trustees have obtained permission to sell the church property from descendants of the original property owners who donated the property to Trinity Presbyterian. Additionally, Westminster Trustees have met with Trinity trustees and obtained approval to sell the property. Once formally executed, these permissions clear the way for the hospice property purchasers to proceed with application to the City of Montgomery Board of Adjustments to rezone the property. Westminster continues to maintain the property in working order and for several months extended their agreement with the Hispanic Seventh Day Adventist congregation for them to continue to use the property for their gatherings and worship services until the property is sold.

3. Effective January 1st, Robert Edwards resigned as the full time, temporary pastor for the Westminster congregation. He has located full time employment with Baptist Medical Center South as a clinical chaplain. He is continuing to preach the first Sunday of the month and moderate session and congregational meetings. The pastor of Memorial preaches the second Sunday and the Westminster worship committee is making arrangements for others to conduct Sunday worship services.

4. Westminster maintains part time choir director and organist and continues to pay part time janitorial staff to maintain the Woodley Road property until it is sold. A church member continues to donate her time to provide secretarial and bookkeeping services. They are paying Memorial for utilities and use of their facilities while they are abiding there.

5. FY 2015 expenses exceed revenue. The session approved covering budget overages with small reserves maintained in the church’s checking account. A special four-month stewardship campaign was conducted and the session anticipates that projected revenues will cover expenses during the first four months of FY 2016.

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6. A congregational meeting is scheduled for January 24th to update the congregation on the current financial status, sale of the property and to elect a nominating committee.

7. Session and congregational leadership are discussing options to assess the future of the Westminster congregation and the feasibility of establishing missions and a new church to serve in the Montgomery area. The Session and key congregational leadership continue to meet to discuss the assessments and information gathered through participating in the PCUSA’s New Beginnings Program. They are exploring how they can faithfully respond to God's call for them as a church particularly in the areas of mission and resources. They are prayerfully considering the capability, potential and feasibility of revitalizing the congregation to establish a new church in Montgomery recognizing that proceeds from the sale of the building cannot be used to fund day-to-day operations.

8. The Administrative Commission plans to monitor the activities of the Session and current arrangements through conversations and written communication. As needed and appropriate, the Administrative Commission is available as a whole and individually to assist and support the Westminster session and congregation as they give prayerful consideration to determining “Where is the Lord Calling Westminster Church”.

Respectfully and prayerfully submitted,Ben ArellanoRhon CarletonBobbie Epting Gayle Lees Sandlin, Chair Nancy Washburn

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Transitional Presbyter Report to the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley

Meeting February 18, 2016

Role of the TP:1. to assist and oversee maintaining current on-

going programs and services of the PSL;2. to assist and guide the study and evaluation

of current programs and services and development of long range goals and priorities;3. to assist and guide creation of a proposed permanent staffing structure;4. to serve as the leader/coordinator of the present staff team;5. to fulfill all constitutional responsibilities of the chief administrative position in the PSL.

I give thanks to God for the opportunity to participate with you in Christ’s mission in the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley for the past nine months. My role as outlined above has not changed, though the situations in which I am called “to assist and guide” do change.

Visiting and worshiping with our congregations continues to be important for me as a way of listening and learning how God is present and the Spirit is working in our communities. I have now worshiped with and visited 32 of our congregations, and will continue to get to know our diverse presbytery.

The Executive Council has been working with me through a visioning process. I give thanks to God for the attention commissioners to the November 12, 2015, Presbytery meeting gave to the “World Café” conversations during our Open Space time. The notes from those conversations have been copied and shared with the members of Executive Council. The EC then went through a focusing exercise in which they were each asked to come up with an eight-word identity/mission statement. Eight words seem to be key to clarity according to “the experts”—focusing on a verb, a target audience, and the describable difference the Presbytery seeks to make.

My hope is that we will introduce that identity statement to the Presbytery at the February 18, 2016, meeting. We will ask that this be “the first reading” for an amendment to our Standing Rules which will be added to our Statement of Purpose. The conversation today will invite Presbytery commissioners to reflect on the identity statement, asking – how can the Presbytery make a difference in our mission? You will be invited to share the fruits of your conversations.

My plan is that from such a statement and the conversations we have today, the EC can then begin to discern how to best align our resources (financial, physical, people) to support this identity as we “help congregations and the church as a whole to be more faithful participants in the mission of Christ” (Book of Order G-3.0101).

Jay WilkinsTransitional Presbyter

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