Dear Presbytery Family,
The mission of our presbytery is to "support our faith community, so that together we are a greater witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ." The first listed goal of our new strategic plan is to “create a culture of unity and diversity where everyone is of one heart and soul working together for the common good to the glory of God” (Acts 4:32). In this season of pandemic and division, it is more important than ever that we embrace this goal and pursue it fervently with a deep love of God and neighbor.
At the Coordinating Council’s weekly meeting, our devotional time was about the love of God that disciples show to one another and to the world. Our Savior commanded, “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35). We are praying that you and your congregation may have a renewed sense of the patience and strength that enable you to share the love of Christ with everyone, for the glory of God.
Things to communicate this week include:
- The first electronic presbytery meeting, with limited business, will be on Tuesday, July 28, at 6:00 pm. The agenda will include a revised budget and recommended changes to the structure and staffing of the presbytery to help it fulfill its mission and vision. Click here to see the initial notice and to register.
- Our COVID-19 resources page contains ideas for a vibrant congregational witness in this season as well as considerations for when and how to “re-gather” in the building.
- We affirm the responsibility of each session for staying informed of local conditions and making decisions for keeping people safe. When your electronic worship services change, please email Marigrace Doran so that we can keep our web page up to date.
- We continue to lift up the Matthew 25 initiative of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). At least four of our congregations have become a part of Matthew 25, including Fort King, Kirkwood, Middleburg, and Palms. We will highlight some of our Matthew 25 stories soon!
Finally, we wish everyone a safe and restful long holiday weekend. Remember, as we celebrate Independence Day weekend, “Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint” (Isa. 40:30-31).
Grace and peace,
Diane Wilson, Chair of Coordinating Council
Edd Norris, Moderator of the Presbytery
Sandra Hedrick, Stated Clerk
Chris Lieberman, Relationship Coordination Director
On Behalf of the Coordinating Council
