Ministers, Educators, Administrators and Clerks, please share this information with your congregation.  
May 1, 2020
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Contribute Coronavirus Stories for the Vine
From collecting food to sewing masks, Presbyterians are living their faith with generosity, love, and creativity during this pandemic. POJ will feature examples in the July issue of the Vine and needs your help in compiling story ideas. Contributions can be activities that a church organized or that a congregation member undertook. Email a brief summary to Kelley Hope by May 20.
Preparing for Reopening
Although we don’t know when returning to church will be safe, we can begin planning now for that day. What changes will you make to your previous practices? Before welcoming people into your building again, consider 24 questions raised by Ken Braddy, director of Sunday School for LifeWay Christian Resources. Another resource to review is "Returning to Church," published by the Wisconsin Council of Churches. Both give important guidance to keeping worshipers safe.
Annual Sprunt Lectures Online and Free
Union's annual Sprunt Lectures, May 5-6, will address faith formation with young people and opportunities congregations have to support children, youth, and young adults. The program will be held online via Zoom video conferences. The virtual event is free, but registration is required.
Around the Presbytery
" Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me."
Matthew 25:40
Churches Fill Food Void
Nationwide, job losses caused by the pandemic are increasing demand at food pantries. To help the need locally, POJ churches are giving to area hunger programs.

Rivermont Church in Chester gave a portion of their POJ Inspire Gift to the Chesterfield Food Bank.  Rennie Memorial shared theirs with the Amelia Food Pantry.

Rosewood Church in Prince George purchased 100 bags of groceries that the police departments of Prince George and Hopewell distributed to people in need. The church also purchased meals from a local restaurant for hospital staff.

River Road Church in Richmond held a food and fund drive to benefit Feed More. They collected $24,000 and 1,200 pounds of food.

Blessings to all churches and organizations who extend generosity to others during this time.
Have good news to share? Send it to Kelley Hope.
Stated Meetings
June 16
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Online
Overture deadline: April 21 at noon
Packet online: June 2
Oct 17
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Orange PC, Orange
Overture deadline: Aug 20 at noon
Packet online: Oct 1
Jobs
Churches throughout POJ 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