 |
|
|
|
FROM RACHEL YATES, PRESBYTERY EXECUTIVE
|
PREACH CHRIST
It seemed that Rev. Van Loon enjoyed a good joke. His daughters shared stories of how he had tipped outhouses as a youth. Later in life and ministry, when someone had overstayed their visit to the manse, he was known to put a cereal box on the table, remarking "It must be breakfast time." We heard about his Easter pranks, including having rabbits in the pulpit.
Rev. Paul Van Loon passed away on March 10, at the age of 95 years. He had remained a minister member, honorably retired, of the Presbytery, having served at First Presbyterian Church of Ottawa (Dousman) and First Presbyterian Church (Oostburg). He was Moderator of the Presbytery in 1976. When news of his passing reached the Presbytery, I began receiving
.
..(
READ MORE
)
.
|
|
A CELEBRATION OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF FOX LAKE
|
|
MONTHLY PRAYER MEETING TOMORROW, MARCH 21
Join the staff at the Presbytery Office for the monthly prayer meeting held every 3rd Thursday of the month from 1:00-1:30 p.m. Can't make it to the Presbytery Office? We invite you to join us by "Praying in Place" at that same time.
|
|
PRESBYTERY GATHERING SPEAKERS
The Presbytery of Milwaukee is pleased to announce the speakers for its remaining three Presbytery Gatherings in 2019. Each will guide us in our learning about this year's theme of Reconciliation. We hope you will invite everyone in your congregation to attend.
speakers are now available! Please share these with your congregation and community. We look forward to hosting three excellent speakers.
Dr. DiAngelo's book, White Fragility: Why It's So Hard For White People to Talk About Racism is available for purchase through the Presbytery Office for $9.00 -- 45% off the list price. We encourage groups to read this together to prepare for our May 21 Gathering.
|
|
PLANNING CALENDARS
You may have already noticed, but the current planning calendars officially go through the month of August, not June as they had previously. This means that the 2019-20 calendar won't be available until August, with September as the first month in the new calendar. Please watch for the order form in June if you would like to get a price break by ordering through the presbytery.
|
|
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR TWO CERTIFIED ECC CHURCHES
We are pleased to announce that Faith Springs Presbyterian Church in Pewaukee and Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church in Wauwatosa are included on the list of congregations certified as an Earth Care Congregation by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Presbyterian Hunger Program through February 2020. This honor speaks to the great commitment that these churches have to caring for God's earth.
|
|
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE TASK FORCE (DPRTF)
The Disaster Preparedness and Response Task Force (DPRTF) formed with five members of the presbytery to provide the presbytery with planning and coordination in preparation for and response to natural or human-caused disasters within the bounds of Milwaukee Presbytery, and response to such disasters outside of the presbytery.
|
|
PROPOSED MANUAL OF OPERATION AMENDMENT #2
At the February Presbytery meeting, we had a first reading of two amendments to the Manual of Operation. Below, we show the intended language for the second one: codification of the "Personnel Committee," which is an informal work group under the Presbytery Council's control. As with the proposed Presbytery Planning Commission, moving this work group into the Presbytery's organizational structure better defines and streamlines its work and provides greater accountability in the selection of members through the Nominating Committee and Committee on Representation to ensure these leaders conform to the spirit of F-1.0403, F-3.0106, and G-3.0103.
Insert at line 592
Personnel Committee
. The committee is responsible for providing oversight of the Presbytery staff. Specifically, the Personnel Committee shall:
- Maintain and implement the Presbytery Personnel Policies;
- Provide for Annual Reviews of all Presbytery staff;
- Make salary recommendations to the Council;
- Be available to Presbytery staff members for consultation;
- Working with the designated administrative staff, interview and recommend to Council hiring and dismissal of Presbytery staff, as well as creation and dissolution of positions; and
- Working with the designated administrative staff, interview and recommend to the Nominating Committee the nomination of the Presbytery Treasurer, Presbytery Foundation Treasurer, Stated Clerk and Associate Stated Clerk.
The Committee is accountable to the Presbytery through the Presbytery Council.
Members. The Personnel Committee shall be composed of seven members. Six members shall be divided into three equal classes. Members shall be nominated to the Presbytery through Council and elected by the Presbytery Assembly. Term of service shall be for three (3) years with an individual eligible to serve up to six (6) consecutive years. One member shall be appointed to the Committee by the Presbytery Council and shall serve at the pleasure of the Council while they are members of the Council. Designated administrative staff shall serve ex-officio with voice and vote.
Meetings. The Committee meets as needed.
|
|
IFGM STATEMENT AGAINST HATRED AND VIOLENCE
The Presbytery of Milwaukee supports the Stand Against Hatred and Violence statement issued Friday, March 15, 2019, by the Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee. The statement condemns the horrific shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand and reaffirms our common commitment to the inherent dignity of every human being.
The Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee strongly condemns the horrific attack on two mosques in New Zealand.
Although this atrocity has not taken place in our geographic area, we are aware of the effect such acts of terror can have on our local community. The rising tide of hatred across the globe affects us all...
|
|
VIGIL FOR NEW ZEALAND VICTIMS
The Islamic Society of Milwaukee will be holding a vigil for the victims of New Zealand on
Thursday, March 21st, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. This event is open to the public and will be held at the ISM Community Center.
Islamic Society of Milwaukee, 815 W. Layton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53221 -- Enter on Layton Ave. and continue to drive past the Pita Palace and O'Reilly. The building is set back from the road.
|
|
Join others in our faith community as they march from the Islamic Society of Milwaukee on 13th Street and Layton Avenue to the vigil at the ISM Community Center.
The march will begin at 6:45 p.m. at the ISM Main Mosque, 4704 S. 13th Street, Milwaukee, 53221.
|
|
IMAGING LENT
Lent calls us to examine how we spend our time and energy, particularly on things that don't deeply satisfy our soul, but rather deplete us or diminish others.
Last week we asked, "What have been your significant journeys?" Here are the images we received:
|
|
Forgiveness is often hard to picture. There are people who have hurt us or those we love so deeply that it feels impossible to even imagine forgiving them. Upon reflection of hurts we've caused, it can be hard to imagine being forgiven either by others or by God. As Christians we proclaim the steadfast love and mercy of God; we pray "forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us". But, the words come more easily than the acts of forgiving or knowing ourselves as forgiven. The season of Lent speaks to this struggle within us and invites us to hope for that which feels impossible.
|
|
|
NEWS FROM THE DENOMINATION
|
REGARDING RULING ELDERS:
A MONTHLY SERIES FOR SPIRITUAL LEADERS
The God-Powered Church
Rev. Joan Gray has written the most recent installment of Regarding Ruling Elders, a monthly resource of the Office of the General Assembly.
|
|
LAST WEEK TO ORDER ECO-PALMS
Across the United States, more than 1,000 PC(USA) congregations celebrate Palm Sunday with eco-palms. Learn more about
eco-palms
and/or
order eco-palms
. Eco-palms must be ordered by March 22.
|
|
CELEBRATE SDOP SUNDAY, APRIL 7, 2019
Self-Development of People (SDOP) Sunday is April 7, 2019. The Presbyterian Mission Agency has developed a resource that lifts up stories of community building, self-reliance, and hope -- stories of God in action. Download hymns, liturgical suggestions, and other resources to help your congregation celebrate.
Find the 2019 SDOP Sunday Resource here
.
|
|
HOUSING ALLOWANCE RULED CONSTITUTIONAL
The housing allowance, created 65 years ago, is the most valuable tax benefit a minister can receive today. However, when a federal judge ruled it to be an unconstitutional preference for religion in 2017, its future for clergy in Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin became uncertain. Many believed that uncertainty potentially extended nationwide, too, pending the outcome of an appeal.
But that uncertainty dissipated-at least for now-when the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circ
uit (the court involved with the appeal) issued its opinion on Friday. Its conclusion: the clergy housing allowance is a constitutionally permissible tax benefit. This
free article
includes highlights from the opinion, as well as comments about what we should expect to see next in this continuing legal saga.
Church Law & Tax
is offering a free webinar
at 11am (Central) on Friday, March 22, featuring attorney and senior editor Richard Hammar. The Seventh Circuit's decision will be reviewed and questions regarding what churches and clergy should anticipate next will be addressed.
|
|
SOUL SHOP: MINISTERING TO SUICIDAL DESPERATION
Delafield Presbyterian Church invites you to join them for a one-day training -- Soul Shop: Ministering to Suicidal Desperation. The training will be held on
Thursday, March 28, 2019 from 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
While this training is directed to pastors and faith community leaders, Soul Shop training benefits counselors, first responders and essentially anyone interested in learning how to effectively minister to suicidal desperation.
The workshop fee is $5, and includes lunch.
Your advanced registration is recommended, as this event's capacity is 120.
Register online here.
|
|
SOUTHMINSTER'S YOUTH MUSICAL HOMECOMING
The Presbytery of Milwaukee members and Carroll University friends are all invited to the annual Southminster Presbyterian Church's Youth Musical Homecoming on Sunday, April 7
th at 9:30am.
This year the production is "Are We There Yet", composed by Allen Pote and words by Tom S. Long (2007). In this 45 minute retelling of the Exodus story, they capture the humor and humanity of Moses, Miriam, Aaron, Joshua, and the Pharaoh, as well as communicating the eternal truths within the story. A perfect musical as we prepare to celebrate the Christian Pascal Mystery.
Southminster Presbyterian Church,
200 Richard Street,
Waukesha, WI 53189
|
|
HYMNALS - FREE TO A GOOD CHURCH
Covenant Presbyterian has 75 used Hymnals in very good condition. They have a blue cover and are "The Presbyterian Hymnal: Hymns, Psalms, and Spiritual Songs", 1990. If your church would like some of these hymnals contact Kathy Miller at
kmiller@covpres.org.
|
|
MISSION CO-WORKERS FROM MIDDLE EAST TO SPEAK AT COVENANT
The Covenant Mission Committee invites you on
Thursday, March 28, at 6:30pm
, to come and hear the following presentation by two PC(USA) Mission Co-Workers:
"Healing Medicine: Christ at Work through His Church in the Middle East."
Rev. Elmarie Parker serves as a Presbyterian Church (USA) Associate for Ecumenical Partnerships in the role of Regional Liaison to Church Partners in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon. Rev. Scott Parker serves also as an Associate for Ecumenical Partnerships working with the Middle East Council of Churches based in
Beirut, Lebanon.
They will lead a discussion regarding current conditions in the region where they work and live, along with how these conditions (including ISIS) are impacting PCUSA Partners and their continuing work of worship and ministry. Though there is much over which to be deeply concerned, there are also stories of hope to be heard and shared. Bring your questions and come ready to hear the witness received first hand from local church leaders on the ground in these areas of conflict and chaos."
|
|
LOVING OUR INTERFAITH NEIGHBORS
A STUDY-ACTION RESOURCE FOR CONGREGATIONS
The Wisconsin Council of Churches is pleased to share with you this groundbreaking resource for Wisconsin congregations, "Loving our Interfaith Neighbors: A Study-Action Guide." We pray that it will be an instrument of healing and hope for you and your congregation.
The "Loving our Interfaith Neighbors" study-action resource for Wisconsin congregations is written with the goals of the WCC "Invitation to Action" policy statement in mind, but our
first step on the journey is to actually get to know those of other faith traditions
, which is what this resource will help you do.
|
|
The Wisconsin Council of Churches is
now accepting pre-orders for Blessed Ramadan signs, to be delivered prior to the beginning of Ramadan. We encourage you to place signs at homes, businesses and churches during this holy season for Muslims (May 6 - June 5 2019). You can read more about the campaign, download our 'Loving Our Interfaith Neighbors' study guide, and order signs through our website.
It's not too early to begin preparing to greet your Muslim neighbors and increase interfaith awareness. Share your message of welcome and solidarity with a #BlessedRamadan lawn sign.
|
|
THE FORUM ON YOUTH MINISTRY, APRIL 23-26, 2019
The Forum on Youth Ministry is an event for Christian leaders who work with young people.
At the Forum we gather thought leaders, pastors, and scholars together
on the campus of Princeton Theological Seminary for 4 days to provide lectures, seminars, and worship that feeds our work in youth ministry, and creates space for ministry leaders to network, rest, and learn.
Join us from April 23
rd
-26
th
, 2019 to explore our theme - Movement: Mission, Body, and Justice.
|
|
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY, WILMINGTON, NC
St. Andrews - Covenant Presbyterian Church
, Wilmington, NC, has been actively involved in both disaster relief and rebuild since Hurricane Florence hit last fall. They are currently working with Habitat for Humanity to help address the affordable housing crisis exposed by the storm. St. Andrews- Covenant has taken the lead in a four-house build at 15
th
St. just two blocks from the church with the goal of completion and dedication by the one year anniversary of Florence on September 13
th
. Many hands are needed to achieve this effort. Can your hands help?
Sign up to volunteer
or c
ontact Lora Padula for more info 910-547-7445
. In addition to Saturdays, the following weeks are available: April 1-6, April 29-May 4, July 8-13, August 5-9.
Thank you for your help and your prayers!
|
|
GOOD SHEPHERD TRINITY CHURCH IN MILWAUKEE SEEKS PIANIST
Good Shepherd Trinity Church is searching for a pianist for Sunday mornings. Interested candidates should email Jeannette Bell or call 414-771-7170.
|
|
IMMANUEL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN MILWAUKEE SEEKS INTERIM FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION & CONGREGATIONAL LIFE
Interim (Bridge) for Christian Education and Congregational Life; ordained or non-ordained
Please click here for MIF
Position available: June 15, 2019
A healthy, growing, and inclusive community of faith on Milwaukee's historic Lower East Side, Immanuel Presbyterian Church seeks a transitional leader to provide continuity of programming in the areas of Christian Education for Children and Youth and Congregational Life. This is a temporary position, open to both clergy and non-clergy, while the congregation engages a process to consider and develop a new staffing model for continued health and vitality. Follow this link for a full job description and link to the Ministry Information Form (MIF). Learn more about Immanuel's mission and ministry at: www.immanuelwi.org Resumes or MIFs can be sent to:
hr@immanuelwi.org
|
|
VERNON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN BIG BEND SEEKS PART-TIME SECRETARY
This position would require 14-16 hours of work per week, preferably Tuesday and Thursday. Job requirements include good computer skills; ability to learn new software; knowledge of basic bookkeeping and record keeping; excellent written and spoken communication/phone skills. Confidentiality and tact are important. This person will work directly with the Pastor and church officers. Pay is commensurate with skill level. Child care is available in the Vernon Child Development Center. Interested applicants should send a letter of interest and a resume to
church@vernonpres.org
with "Church Secretary" in subject line.
|
|
SOUTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN IN WAUKESHA SEEKS INTERIM DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN FORMATION
Interim Director of Christian Formation oversees the formation and discipleship opportunities of Christians through means like Sunday School and Children's Church Program, Youth Ministry, and classes for parents; assists in bringing Christian formation back into each home, particularly by relating to our children and youth and equipping their parents or guardians; and works with the Pastor, Christian Formation consultant, and the Christian Formation Ministry Team in its understanding and execution of Christian Formation. Candidate should have knowledge of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and its history, traditions and liturgies; familiarity with developmental stages related to learning and spirituality; excellent written and oral skills, especially ability to use social media effectively. The successful candidate will also have the ability to recruit train, lead and support volunteers in ministry and leadership positions, experience leading children or youth to Christian discipleship (This could be volunteer experience - in either a church or mission setting, and passion for Christian Formation and the ability to articulate how they live out that passion in everyday life. Position is 10-15 hours a week, contracted for one year. Start date is June 1, 2019. Please send cover letter and resume to the Rev'd Dr. Christian Boyd,
pastor@southminsterchurch.org.
|
|
SOUTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN IN WAUKESHA SEEKS CHURCH ADMINISTRATOR
Church Administrator manages the day-to-day business operations of the church. Duties include office management, communicating with members, managing volunteers, financial management of the church, church event organizing and scheduling, and property rental management. Provides some office assistance for pastor and staff. Must be self-directed, have enhanced computer skills, personable on the phone and with those who come by the office, good skills in making phone calls for the staff and in recruiting, and able to maintain confidentiality always. Experience with Microsoft Office, Church Windows, and QuickBooks desired, as well as basic IT knowledge. Position is for 25-30 hours per week. Start Date: May 1, 2019. Please send cover letter and resume to the Rev'd Dr. Christian Boyd,
pastor@southminsterchurch.org.
|
|
INTERFAITH CONFERENCE OF GREATER MILWAUKEE SEEKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
IFCGM is in the final stages of recruitment for an Executive Director. If you are interested in applying for this position, please submit a litter of application and resume to
IFCMilwaukeeChair@gmail.com as soon as possible.
You can find more information about the position
here.
|
|
THE LISBON PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SUSSEX AND THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF RICHFIELD, WI ARE SEEKING A STATED SUPPLY PASTOR TO SERVE BOTH CONGREGATIONS
Click
here
for job description and compensation.
|
|
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN IN JANESVILLE SEEKS PART TIME SOLO PASTOR
First Presbyterian Church, Janesville seeks part time solo pastor. Click for
MIF
|
|
CROSSROADS SEEKS TWO POSITIONS
Pastor/Head of Staff: Please click here for MIF
Associate Bridge Pastor:
Crossroads Presbyterian Church in Mequon WI is currently looking for a Bridge Associate Pastor to provide continuity with our Deacons, Adult Ed and Mission/Outreach ministries. This is a temporary role for the purpose of bridging the time until our PNC finds a new Sr. Pastor and we begin a search for a full-time Associate Pastor. It is not required that this Pastor be specifically trained in transitional work. Please see the attached job description or visit our website:
www.crossroadspres.org
Resumes or MIFs can be sent to:
careers@crossroadspres.org
. Please include any links or clips of relevant sermons or other recordings. Please click for JOB DESCRIPTION
|
|
|
FUTURE PRESBYTERY GATHERING DATES
|
- TUESDAY, May 21 - Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church
- WEDNESDAY, September 25 - Good Shepherd Trinity Church
- THURSDAY, November 21 - Jerusalem Presbyterian Church, Wales
Share this information with your congregation! NEW Bulletin inserts & bulletin board flyers available!
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
