Ministers, Educators, Administrators and Clerks,
please share this information with your congregation.  
February 21, 2019
Three Chopt Warmly Welcomes Presbytery
The 101st Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of the James took place on Saturday, February 16, at Three Chopt Presbyterian Church in Richmond. The members and staff of Three Chopt outdid themselves. They salte d the sidewalks following snow and sleet and provided a delicious meal and scrumptious snacks. Thank you Three Chopt for a job well done.

Among many highlights of the meeting, we call to your attention the following:

  • Rev. Diane Prevary and Christian Educator Leigh Anne Ring were installed as moderator and vice-moderator, respectively, for 2019.
  • 2018 moderator John Garrett completed his term at the meeting. Special thanks to John.
  • Rev. Charles Grant was Honorably Retired, effective 10/31/2018.
  • Rev. Terry R. Woodard was Honorably Retired, effective 12/31/2018.
  • Rev. Brint Keyes, Rev. Michael Clang, and Rev. Esther Choi were approved as Members at Large.
  • Candidate Evan Wildhack was approved for ordination and installation as pastor of Bethlehem Church, Mechanicsville.
Check Out POJ's New Website
PO J has launched a new website with many new features and benefits. Visit presbyteryofthejames.com to use the search engine, view the events calendar, and read the FYI archive. There's also a church bulletin board for events hosted by member churches. Behind-the-scenes improvements create a b etter browsing experience for visitors on devices of any kind and especially mobile devices. We hope you enjoy it.
Online Directories Now Protected by Passwords
The POJ directories shared online now require a password to access. Each pers on wishing to access these directories must register for access and create a user name and password. To set up an account, contact website administrator Kelley Hope .

This move is made to protect the privacy of people who are listed in these directories, such as pastors, Christian educators, clerks, POJ committee members, and others.

The directories are available by selecting Directory under Resources in the navigation menu.

Only the directories require registration and a password to view. The rest of the POJ website is available without a password.
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Haiti Trip Postponed Due to Unrest in Country
A group representing POJ's Haiti Ministry was set to travel to Haiti today for a one-week visit. In late January, however, the U.S. State Department posted a level 3 travel advisory for Haiti, recommending travelers avoid the country. With conditions unchanged in Haiti, Haiti Ministry has postponed the trip. Please keep the people of Haiti and mission co-worker Cindy Corell (pictured) in your prayers.

O God of Haiti, deliver your children.
Board of Pensions to Hold First Call Seminar
The Board of Pensions is hosting a workshop in March for inquirers and candidates for ordination and their spouses . Led by Martha Reisner, church consultant, the seminar will cover theological perspectives on benefits, compensation, and call. Learn about financial realities of pastors, including financial health, housing allowances, and healthcare. The event is March 7 at UPSem. RSVP by February 28 to smvpo@upsem.edu or call 804-278-4237. A complimentary meal will be provided.
Registration Open for Stewardship and Leadership Workshop
Author Chick Lane will share insights from his book "Ask, Thank, Tell: Improving Stewardship Ministry in Your Congregation” at a workshop March 23. Co-sponsored by Presbytery of the James and the Virginia Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, the workshop will teach how to share the impact of your stewardship program and show your appreciation to givers. In-person and online participation options are available.
Step-By-Step Retreat for Leaders of Small Congregations
Ashland Presbyterian Church invites you to their annual Step-By-Step retreat on March 15. The retreat will examine mentoring, including biblical, theologi cal, and practical models for both being a capable mentor and receiving the mentoring of others with grace.

For clergy, there are add-on options f or silent reflection, spiritual direction, and an evening clergy discussion from 7 - 9 p.m. on Thursday, March 14 for those interested in extending their retreat time.

Register by March 7.
Learn About Social Media and Email Newsletters at March Workshop
Improve your church's communication skills to retain and engage existing congregation members as well as attract new members. In this workshop, you'll learn how to use social media and email newsletters to share your good news. The free event is March 9 at Southminster Church. Doors open at 8:30 and the workshop begins at 9.
Registration for Summer Camp is Open
Registration is open for Camp Hanover's 2019 summer camp programs. Visit camphanover.org for information on overnight and day camp sessions for youth currently in grades 1 - 11. 
Upcoming Events at Camp Hanover 
February 21, 7-10 p.m. 

February 24, 2-4 p.m. 

March 16 - 17
April 27 - April 28

April 28, 2-5 pm. 

May 17 - May 19
Announcements
Volunteers Sought for Ecumenical Dialogue

The Office of Ecumenical Relations of the Presbyterian Church (USA) seeks Presbyterian members for the Presbyterian/Episcopal Dialogue. Ideal candidates are pastors or mid council leaders who have significant experience with the Episcopal Church. Applications are due by February 25. For more information, contact Rev. Everdith Landrau at everdith.landrau@pcusa.org .
Hymnals Discounted

The Thoughtful Christian has reduced the price of the Glory to God hymnal. Pew editions are $18, a savings of $2. Order 36 or more and receive free shipping with promo code HYMNALSHIP.
 
Order or find more information by calling 800-554-4694 or by visiting www.TheThoughtfulChristian.com .
Triennium

LAST CALL! Deadline to register for the Presbytery of the James Triennium delegation is Monday, February 25. Youth currently in grades 8-12 are eligible. Cost is $620. Contact Colleen with any questions ( colleen@camphanover.org ).
Stated Meetings
June 18
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
First Church, Charlottesville
Oct 19
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
New Hanover Church, Mechanicsville
Events
March 9
Southminster Church, Richmond
March 21
N ew Professionals Orientation
Presbytery of the James office
March 23
Three Chopt Church, Henrico
Office Telephone (804) 262-2074