Ministers, Educators, Administrators and Clerks,
please share this information with your congregation.  
December 5, 2019
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The Reason for the Season
Advent began December 1. General presbyter Fred Holbr ook reflects on the meaning of this date to him, asking " May God prepare our hearts, letting there be light and joy and love and peace." B lessings upon you this Advent Season.
Presbytery of the James will be closed Monday, December 23, through Sunday, January 5, 2020. The office will reopen on Monday, January 6, 2020.
Deadline for Financial Gifts to Presbytery
We are thankful for our covenant that is affirmed by your faithful, prayerful, and financial support of the Presbytery of the James and its ministry. As the year-end approaches, undesignated income totals $526,952 through November. We rejoice in your faithful giving support. The budgeted request for 2019, growing out of our covenant with one another, is $698,667. It is vital for the ministries of the POJ to be upheld and for us to be transparent about the needs and opportunities God has set before us.

Historically, giving within the churches of the presbytery is strong in December. To facilitate acknowledgement and gratitude for your gifts, the presbytery account will be open to receive congregational support for 2019 through January 16, 2020. Thank you for your faithful work and service for Christ Jesus in this region and beyond. May God bless you all!
Workshop on Parliamentary Procedure
On Tuesday, January 14, from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., interim general presbyter and stated clerk Fred Holbrook will offer training in the basics and the joy of parliamentary procedure. All are welcome to come to the Presbytery of the James office for this adventure into the world of Robert's Rules of Order . Fred makes it fun and fruitful.
Update on Haiti and Cindy Corell
As the danger, violence, and political unrest escalated in Haiti throughout the summer, World Mission asked Cindy Corell to leave in September. She is with her family in Virginia and speaking to groups and churches until she is able to return. Learn about the challenges facing Haitian people and how you can help.
Strength for Today, Bright Hope for Tomorrow
What gifts do older adults offer their churches and communities? Using the hymn “Great is thy Faithfulness” as inspiration, a recent retreat helped participants explore and reflect on their purpose, gifts, and legacy. Church leaders also should value these gifts. The event was co-sponsored b y Presbytery of the James’s Older Adult Ministry and Camp Hanover.
The Christmas Story Comes to Life

Join in a magical evening of music and drama on December 13 and 14 celebrating the birth of Christ. More than "just another live nativity," you'll experience musical performances, dramatic re-enactments, and fellowship with others while leisurely strolling a candlelit wooded path. Click on the link above for more information.
Youth Invited to Experience Camp in Winter

Winter Camp is an opportunity for campers to have the Camp Hanover Experience during a different season. Youth currently in grades 5 through 12 graders are invited to join in this winter getaway, December 28-30.
Into the Church Triumphant
Jessica (Jess) Reveley
November 25, 2019

Wife of Nelson Reveley

Memorial Service 
December 14
2 p.m. 
Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church
Other News
Free Piano
Lightly-used Kimball Artist Console piano (with bench and light) available to a church in the presbytery. Recipient must pick up from owner's home in Mechanicsville. For more information, please contact Harold Padgett
at 804-550-0330.
Stated Meetings
Feb 15, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Westminster Church, Charlottesville
June 16, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Salisbury Church, Midlothian
Oct 17, 2020
Presbytery of the James Stated Meeting
Orange Church, Orange
Office Telephone (804) 262-2074