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Labor Day Weekend may be the unofficial end of summer . . .
. . . but these days that doesn't mean as much as it used to about getting back to routines after summer fun.
Since the Presbytery met on August 14, we've seen devastation from an earthquake in Haiti (that struck the morning of our meeting), floods in Tennessee, Hurricane Ida in the Caribbean and from Louisiana to as far away as New York, wildfires approaching Lake Tahoe, the historic (yet troubled) evacuation of more people from Afghanistan than any country has ever helped evacuate, and increasing needs to support refugees around the world (and even in Tampa Bay).

In all of these things, we get calls and emails asking how people can help. As you read on, you'll find some info and links you can use to make a difference --- in big or small ways.

But, no matter what you might consider doing to help others, don't forget that hurricane season is now in full swing and may yet affect us more directly than any of the storms so far. Along with local resources, the Ready.gov Plan Ahead for Disasters website is a great place to find some reminders to jog your memory as you review your plans.

Blessings,

Bill

Rev. William A. Wildhack III
Stated Clerk and Manager of Communications
(813) 868-4800, opt. 2

P.S. Did you miss our last issue of the eNews with the Presbytery Meeting Summary? Check it out here!

P.P.S. Please excuse a "proud dad" moment and check out this photo from the ordination of Rev. Jocelyn Maria Wildhack by the Presbytery of Arkansas on August 22, 2021, at Ferncliff Camp & Conference Center in Little Rock. The newest Rev. Wildhack serves as Ferncliff's Chaplain and Camp Director, leads Ferncliff Forest Church (Ferncliff's nature-based New Worshiping Community), and produces Ferncliff's "In-a-Box" materials (Camp-in-a-Box, Advent-in-a-Box, and Easter-in-a-Basket). 🤗

Ordination Prayer
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My work---and this newsletter---is supported by per capita funds from congregations in the Presbytery of Tampa Bay, which also help unite all Presbyterians in sharing God’s love through mission and ministry. Thank you!
Hurricanes, wildfires, refugees, and more: How can I help?
Across disaster and humanitarian assistance organizations, one lesson stands out: "Cash is best."
As FEMA describes on its Volunteer and Donate | FEMA.gov webpage, "Cash is best." From the link:
  • Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.

FEMA also includes important things to remember about in-kind donations ("Knowing what is needed, where it is needed, and getting it there at the right time is the key.") and a reminder not to just show up ("Don't self-deploy to disaster areas.), but work with established organizations.

DON'T MISS THIS: Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (pcusa.org) is one of those "recognized" organizations at the links from the FEMA website.
Out of Chaos, Hope
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is a trusted and recognized disaster relief organization
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (pcusa.org) has been making a difference for years, and many even within the bounds of the Presbytery of Tampa Bay have benefited from PDA's help.

Click through to find out how you and your church can support their efforts in the US and around the world!
"I was a stranger and you welcomed me." (Matthew 25:35)
Matthew 25 is a powerful call to help "the least of these" --- including refugees.
Matthew 25 Logo
Rev. Will Wellman serves in a validated ministry that includes working with refugees in Tampa Bay. Will writes:

Tampa Bay has long had a history of welcoming the stranger, particularly refugees. Refugee arrivals are set to return to their normal flow nationwide and the two local refugee resettlement agencies, Lutheran Services Florida and Gulf Coast Jewish Family & Community Services, are expecting more arrivals than they've had for the past 5 years. In Hillsborough alone, over 500 new refugees are expected in the next year.

Unfortunately, rental costs in Tampa Bay have risen dramatically in the past year, more than any metro area in the country. Housing is the number one need for this community right now. Refugee agencies are in desperate need of affordable housing, both short-term solutions for new arrivals and long-term solutions for families needing a lease.

If you know of any low cost short-term or long-term housing opportunities -- or have other questions about how to support refugees, please contact Rev. Will Wellman will@palmaceia.org
Are you interested in serving as a commissioner to the 225th General Assembly in 2022?
Road to GA graphic
The Committee on Nominations and Representation would love to hear from potential Commissioners and Yount Adult Advisory Delegates!
The 225th General Assembly will include 3-4 days in Louisville, KY, for on-site assembly committee meetings between June 17 and July 2, and online plenary sessions on June 18 and July 5-9.


The announced deadline to apply is September 12.

Please click below to learn more about the 225th General Assembly as you consider applying!
225th General Assembly (2022)

Welcome to the 225th General Assembly (2022) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Read more
ga-pcusa.org
Meanwhile, in other news:
2021 Florida Clergy Convening (online)
Thursday, September 16
"Called, Prepared, Sent"
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16 NRSV

Join Pastors for Florida Children and the Florida Council of Churches for the 2021 Florida Clergy Convening on Thursday, September 16 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. The convening will be held virtually and the theme for the convening is, "Called, Prepared, Sent."

We will hear workshops presented by ACLU Florida, Florida PTA, the Florida School Boards Association, and Southern Poverty Law Center on the subjects of public education, criminal justice, and voting rights/redistricting, among other things. 

Our keynote speaker is Fed Ingram, Secretary-Treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers. Ingram grew up in inner-city Miami, where he attended public schools. Pursuing his love of music, he attended Bethune-Cookman University on scholarship and became the first member of his family to earn a postsecondary degree, in music education. He served as a music teacher and band director in Miami-Dade public schools for 10 years. Ingram is also the immediate past president of the 140,000-member Florida Education Association.

To learn more or to register, click here
A survey for Christian Educators
From the Office of the General Assembly
computer
Are you serving in an area of Christian formation in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)? We want to hear from you!
To assist in connecting with Christian educators, the Office of the General Assembly is gathering information for the purpose of sharing denominational updates on resources and Christian formation opportunities.

Whether you are a pastor, employee, volunteer, or retiree in the field of Christian Education, click here to start this short 5-minute survey.

Thank you for all that you do within your congregation and in Christ’s church. We look forward to helping you serve in these important ministries!
Year of Leader Formation: Investing in Ruling Elders and Deacons
Deacon Ministries
As part of the “Year of Leader Formation: Investing in Ruling Elders and Deacons,” a series of webinars is being offered. The third of these events will highlight the ministries of deacons.

According to our PC(USA) Book of Order, “the ministry of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service…” The ways that this ministry is lived out varies from one congregation to another, depending on culture, context, and needs of the church and broader community. In this third webinar of The Year of Leader Formation, join a panel of deacons, pastors, and ruling elders in exploring this vital ordered ministry of the church. You will have an opportunity to hear about the ways that the gifts and skills of deacons are used within congregational ministries, community impacts of deacon ministries, and the connection between discipleship and deacons. There will be an opportunity for questions, answers, and further exploration of the way God is moving through the deacons of the PC(USA).

September 16, 2021, 7:00–8:30 pm (EDT)—Register here by September 8.

The webinar will be recorded and will be posted on the Year of Leader Formation website in the week following the event. Korean and Spanish interpretation will be available for registered attendees.
POAMN 2021 National Conference, online October 26-28
VIBRANT AND FAITHFUL AGING: LEGACIES ACROSS GENERATIONS
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He,
I am He who will sustain you”  (Isaiah 46:4a)

Our National POAMN conference is featuring our longtime friends Donna and Dennis Haines from Missouri, leading our music and worship. We will observe communion during Thursday's worship, please come prepared with your own elements. Our Keynoter is internationally-recognized author and speaker Missy Buchanan, from Texas. She along with our workshop leaders bring a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and experience in addressing the many aspects associated with aging.

We are working with technology partner GNTV Media Ministry to bring you a quality and informative virtual experience. The total cost for three days is only $75, and if your time is limited you will be able to use the passcode issued only to paid registrants to watch at your leisure after the conclusion of the conference.

Learn more and register by clicking here! NOTE: Scholarships are available for retired pastors, their spouses or survivors to attend the conference. Contact POAMN to request a scholarship.

This conference is offered in partnership with the Office of Christian Formation of the Presbyterian Mission Agency, PC(USA).
REvangelism: 8 Habits of Evangelism
Online Conference, November 1-3
8 Habits of Evangelism banner
The REvangelism Conference is designed to take you on a deeper journey into faith: into the lives of others, into justice, hope, and the wonder of God. Together we will practice habits of Evangelism that will engage us in the gospel of good news — God’s justice and reconciliation for the world.

At REvangelism you will interact with the wise, diverse voices in the church who contributed to the 8-Habits of Evangelism resource. As you work through each habit together, you will experience the goodness and richness of Christ’s body and the Holy Spirit transforming you, and the world around you.

For more information and registration, visit REvangelism | Montreat Conference Center. Montreat is hosting the program in partnership with Theology, Formation & Evangelism ministries in the Presbyterian Mission Agency
September Glad Tidings from Presbyterian Women
Robin writes:
Happy September 1!

I hope all is well with you and yours and you have a plan evolving for life post-Covid.

The September Glad Tidings is attached - please share.

Treat Others the way You Would Like to Be Treated.
                            Robin
Find help with rent and utilities
CFPB Logo
If you’re looking for help with housing costs, you’re not alone.

State and local organizations are distributing federal rental assistance in their communities. The money can help landlords and renters who are struggling to keep up with rent and other bills.

Click here to learn more and find help in your area.

Find info on the expanded Child Tax Credit

Important changes to the Child Tax Credit will help many families get advance payments of the credit starting this summer:
  • Half the total credit amount is being paid in advance monthly payments. See the payment date schedule.
  • You claim the other half when you file your 2021 income tax return.
Advance payments are sent automatically to eligible people. You do not need to take any action if we have your tax information.
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Also, a non-profit called Code for America has worked with the government to launch a new mobile-friendly online tool to help low-income families register for the monthly child tax credit (CTC) payments authorized by recent coronavirus relief legislation. See more on that at the link below.
Get Your Child Tax Credit

Claim your Child Tax Credit and missing stimulus payments, even if you don't have your tax documents. Putting cash in your family's pocket every month for the things you need, even if you make little or no money.

Read more
www.getctc.org
From Rev. Elizabeth Emily Coleman (HR)
Even the Weeping Willow
To comfort those who have lost a loved one, Even the Weeping Willow is a gift-book by retired pastor, Rev. Elizabeth Coleman, designed to be given in lieu of a card or flowers, to accompany grieving family members or friends through the stages of grief.

For more information, see the Even The Weeping Willow website at https://eventheweepingwillow.com/

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We occasionally include info from minister members of the Presbytery of Tampa Bay about their writings.
Recent Job Postings
We're happy to share openings among our member churches and ministries (and occasionally beyond). Send information about openings to info@pbty.com with "eNews - employment opportunity" in the subject line --- and be sure to let us know if/when you fill the position!
***NEW***

The Gathering Church (a.k.a. Northeast Presbyterian) in St. Petersburg, is searching for a Part-Time (25 hours weekly) Business Admin to "establish, implement, and maintain church-wide financial, property, and administrative objectives, policies, and programs, which are in keeping with the church’s overall vision."

Click here to download the full job description, and click here for info on contacting the church.
Village Presbyterian Church in Tampa, Florida is seeking a new Pastor to lead the church and its congregation in fulfilling its mission to Continue Christ's Work in the World.  

Follow this link for a complete Ministry Information Form (MIF) which includes full details and contact information.
Trinity Clearwater Presbyterian in Clearwater, Florida, is seeking a Co-Pastor to serve with our current Pastor to provide leadership together in all areas of the church, with an emphasis on worship, missional and strategic planning, discipleship and faith formation, church administration, and overall staff supervision.

Follow this link for a complete Ministry Information Form (MIF) which includes full details and contact information.
TAMPA

Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church is looking for:

  • Program Administrative Assistant
  • Young Children and Families Coordinator
  • Nursery Teacher
  • Assistant Program Director with Children's Ministry

You can find out more about both positions and apply at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church Jobs, Employment in Tampa, FL | Indeed.com
CLEARWATER

Thornwell is seeking a Family Specialist for its Building Families Program
(LCSW, LMHC, LMFT Preferred)

You can find out more about the position and apply at Employment​ - Thornwell, and learn more about Thornwell on their webpage

If you have questions, Thornwell's local contact is Bonnie Thompson. You can reach her at bonnie.thompson@thornwell.org or 813-344-8540

PINELLAS PARK

Good Samaritan Church (UCC/PCUSA) seeks Music Director

TAMPA

St. John Presbyterian Church seeks a new pianist

From the church:

We are seeking an organist/pianist to play for our Sunday morning services, and for special services. Payment is $80 per service.

Please call our church office at 813-872-3331. You may leave a message if our secretary Mariana is not available.

St. John Presbyterian Church is located at 4120 N. MacDill Ave, Tampa, FL 33607. Our email address is stjohnpctampa@gmail.com. Thank you!
CLEARWATER

Northwood Presbyterian Church is looking for a Director of Children's Ministry, a Part-time Organist, and more.

Check out the Career Opportunities page on Northwood's website at Northwood Presbyterian Church (northwoodpc.org)

As this issue of the eNews was getting ready to launch, Northwood listed the following open positions:
For the asking / for sale
First Presbyterian Church of Tampa has bibles and hymnals to give away
From Deena Fields, Office Manager:

First Presbyterian Church of Tampa has some “yellow” Hymnals (Hymns for the Family of God, Paragon, copyright 1976) and some “blue” New Revised Standard Version Bibles (copyright 1989) if any other churches would like to have them.

We have 152 yellow hymnals and 108 blue Bibles. Attached are pictures of the covers.

Interested churches can contact me at First Pres if they would like any of them.

First Presbyterian Church
412 E. Zack St.
Tampa, FL 33602
Office 813.229.0679
deena@firstprestampa.org
Ella Banton writes with an offer of a pulpit robe
Bill,

I have Jack's almost white pulpit in my closet in a sealed dry cleaner's cleaner's bag. He was 6 feet tall and had broad shoulders. As you may know, we lived in an apartment at Florida Presbyterian Homes in Lakeland. If anyone is interested in having it they can call me at (863) 213 9872. I can be emailed at jacella58@gmail.com 

I would prefer not to mail it but would really like for someone to be able to make use of it!

In His faith,  
Ella Banton  
Remember, there's always something new to see on our Facebook page and more at the Presbytery of Tampa Bay website. Click the buttons below to start exploring!
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Our next regular issue of the eNews should come out the week of September 13th. Send me ideas before then, please!
Thanks for reading all the way to the end! -- Bill