Ministers, Educators, Administrators and Clerks, please share this information with your congregation.  
September 19, 2019
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Trinity Ghanaian Receives Growth Grant
The Mission Development Resources Committee of the Presbyterian Mission Agency has awarded Trinity Ghanaian Presbyterian Fellowship a $25,000 grant to promote its growth and development. Trinity Ghanaian, which serves African immigrant communities in Richmond, will celebrate its 10th anniversary in October. Congratulations to Pastor Willie Woodson and his congregation!
World Mission Ministry Sponsors Attendance at Big Tent to Promote Leadership Development
Nearly 10 individuals received partial scholarships from POJ’s World Mission Ministry to participate in the recent PC(USA) Big Tent event in Baltimore. Several also attended meetings of PC(USA)’s mission networks (Middle East, African pastors, Haiti) held at Big Tent. The event encouraged participants to become more mission-oriented and to adopt the Matthew 25 vision of actively engaging in the world around us. POJ's representatives can use the knowledge they gained to increase awareness and create action in their congregations for those who are the most vulnerable and marginalized in our society.
Struggles of Mental Health Affect Many
In observance and support of National Suicide Prevention Month, the Committee on Ministry approved electronically distributing to all pastors and clerks of session Ed Stetzer’s September 10 article entitled “A Pastor Dies By Suicide: Three Things We All Need to Know.” Read it at ChristianityToday.com.

If you, or someone you know, needs help,
please contact the National S uicide Prevention Hotline:
1-800-273-8255

Suicide has impacted the lives of many, if not most, of us. Our Book of Common Worship offers a prayer to be used after a suicide: "Gracious God, when there is nothing we can say, we give you thanks that your Spirit intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. Loving God, when there is nothing we can do, we give you thanks that you are working for good in this world of struggle and pain. Holy God, when there is nothing else we know, still we give you thanks that nothing in life or in death, nothing in heaven or on earth, nothing in this world or the world to come will ever separate us from your great love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
Hurricane Spurs Disaster Relief Team into Action
POJ's Disaster Relief Ministry is in action again, this time heading to Ocracoke Island October 26-November 2 to aid in recovery from Hurricane Dorian. The team will set up camp at Life Saving Assembly of God in Ocracoke. To volunteer, email ministry leader Brown Pearson or call him at 804-347-8895 (after September 30).

Christian Education Workshop Coming Up
The Resource Center presents its annual Teachers’ Toolbox seminar on October 5. Rev. Dr. Joseph V. Crockett of Friendship Press, an affiliate of the National Council of Churches, will present several time-tested tools religious educators can use to guide, nurture, and encourage learners to bear marks of Christian discipleship. Registration is $25 per person.
Save the Date for the PW Fall Gathering
The Fall Gathering of Presbyterian Women of the James will take place November 2 at First Presbyterian Church in Richmond. Keynote speaker will be Rev. Dr. Amy Starr Redwine, pastor of the host church and writer for Horizons magazine of Presbyterian Women.
Events
Hebron Participates in Day of Service
Hebron Presbyterian Church in Manakin-Sabot participated in an international day of service in July by organizing the church's first GVA Serve Day. Projects included installing siding on a Habitat for Humanity house; cleaning the food pantry at Goochland Cares; baking cookies and making cards to deliver to local first responders; and singing and visiting with neighbors who needed some extra cheer. The event was organized by Elder Diane Luczkovich.
Free Light Bulbs Available
Southminster Presbyterian Church updated its lighting system and wants to find new homes for the bulbs from the previous fluorescent system. The free bulbs are used but working U-shaped T12. Approximately 100 are available. To claim or ask questions about the bulbs, contact Joni Ervine at office@southpreschurch.org . Recipient is responsible for transporting the bulbs to their church.
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Ashland Hosts Ash Grove Women's Retreat
Registration is open for the Ash Grove Women's Retreat, an event of Ashland Presbyterian Church . This year's facilitator is Leslie Sheil, a Quaker and VCU professor of poetry. Her topic is "Turnings" and she will be using the lens of poetry to help participants understand their spiritual journeys. Additionally, Louisa Presbyterian Church pastor Sandi Goehring will introduce the Beguines. This event is open to all women and those wanting to explore the feminine spirit within. It's an overnight at Richmond Hill Retreat Center (Church Hill in Richmond) on November 8-9. Student rate and/or scholarships are available if needed.
Stated Meetings
Oct 19
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
New Hanover Church, Mechanicsville
Feb 15, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Invitation Needed
June 16, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Invitation Needed
Oct 17, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Invitation Pending
Jobs
Churches throughout POJ and beyond are looking for new talent. Find information about opportunities on POJ's job board . Searching for candidates? Submit a job.
Office Telephone (804) 262-2074