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January 2025 Newsletter

Newsletter Highlights:

-QA Zoom on GA Amendments

-Treasurer Update

-Immigration Task Force

-Clergy of Color Network

PREPARATION FOR PRESBYTERY 1 MTG

Q&A Zoom Session

Monday, Jan. 13th 7-8pm

from the Stated Clerk, MWS Jerilyn Viera Dahlke

 

During the February meeting, some of the work will be voting individually on four remaining items:


24-A The categories gender identity, sexual orientation, be included as protected classes of people in the Unity in Diversity section of Foundations of Presbyterian Polity, F-1.0403. Based on Galations 3:27-29, this section currently speaks of our unity through baptism “regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, geography, or theological conviction.”


24-C Adds two areas: historic principles of church order in F-3.01 and principles of participation and representation in F-1.0403 to required areas for examination for ordination of Ministers of Word and Sacrament, Elders and Deacons. As it has been from the beginning of the Presbyterian Church, Sessions and Presbyteries retain full authority to discern a candidate’s suitability for ordination/installation. It requires questions, not answers.


24-I Eliminates the need for a concurrence from another presbytery to have business brought before GA (concurrences are still allowed but not required). The concurrence functions much like getting a “second” on a motion. The requirement has been cumbersome for presbyteries, preventing business from coming forward due only to missing deadlines.


24-M Episcopal-Presbyterian Agreement on Local Sharing of Ministries is a step towards being in full communion with the Episcopal Church, with a primary focus on Ministers serving in the other denomination.


This one-hour session will be an opportunity to ask clarifying questions about the four amendments and to help people understand the proposed changes accurately. The questions and responses will be summarized, then shared along with the call to the meeting later that week.


Please use the button below to register. You will then be sent the Zoom link.

Click Here For Zoom Registration Link

Treasurer’s Update

Immigration Task Force Forming

In November, the Congregational Vitality Commission received a request that Presbytery prepare to respond to anticipated changes in immigration policy and implementation that may impact members of our churches and the communities they serve. In December, Council approved the formation of an Immigration Task Force. This group will be in touch with congregations and fellowships whose members might be most directly affected to see what support they might welcome, stay abreast of the work the PCUSA is doing as these changes unfold, cultivate connections with organizations within the bounds of our Presbytery that are working alongside immigrants and refugees, and compile a list of educational resources for those who would like to learn more about these issues. If you would like to learn more about what the Task Force is doing, please contact Maurine Huang at maurine_estelle@yahoo.com.  

 

At an Immigration Town Hall on December 11, representatives from PCUSA offices in Louisville provided this initial list of resources. The Task Force hopes to have more resources to share by our February Presbytery meeting.

Exciting News: NCCP Launches the Clergy of Color Network (CCN)

The North Central California Presbytery (NCCP), with the approval of the Vitality in Ministry (VIM) Commission, is thrilled to announce the formation of the Clergy of Color Network (CCN), a dynamic initiative aimed at empowering clergy of color within our presbytery. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by clergy of color, CCN provides a supportive community for fellowship, leadership development, advocacy, and regional collaboration.

 

Key highlights include participation in the annual Clergy of Color Retreat at Zephyr Point, bi-monthly lunch gatherings, leadership workshops, and intentional efforts to address systemic inequities. With an approved budget of $9,000 for 2025, CCN is committed to fostering intercultural unity and promoting equity across all levels of church life.

 

For more information or to get involved, contact MWS Stephen Moon (catalyst@nextg.org) or MWS Grace Suwabe (gsuwabe02@gmail.com). Together, let us celebrate and strengthen the diversity that enriches our presbytery!

A Night of Love and Community: Joint Mosaics-DCC Christmas Celebration

This year’s Christmas Dinner was more than just a meal—it felt like the whole community came together to share love, laughter, and kindness in ways that truly mattered.

 

Two very special persons made the evening unforgettable. Hajin, a former teacher from Mosaics, flew all the way from Sweden to help. Even though she’s busy with her studies and life abroad, she didn’t think twice about traveling thousands of miles to be part of this special day. Then there was Youngran, my sister-in-law and Grace’s oldest sister. At 75, she came all the way from Irvine just to help us prepare. Both of them brought so much heart and energy that it was inspiring to watch.

 

From Saturday morning to the early hours of Monday, these two worked harder than anyone I’ve ever seen. They spent hours in the kitchen, organizing, and making sure everything was just right—starting at 9 a.m. each day and going until 2 a.m. the next morning. They barely stopped to eat or rest, but you could tell they weren’t doing it for recognition. They just wanted everyone to have a beautiful experience.

 

When the dinner finally started, you could see their hard work pay off. We welcomed 110 guests to a night full of joy and warmth. Over 200 raffle prizes were handed out, and everyone went home with something. We also gave special gifts to our leaders and supporters to thank them for everything they’ve done.

 

But the best part of the night wasn’t the food or the prizes—it was the people. Volunteers from all backgrounds came together, and you could feel the love in the room. Strangers introduced themselves, new friendships were formed, and everyone felt included. It was amazing to see how a simple act of sharing a meal could bring so many people closer.

 

This night wasn’t just about celebrating Christmas—it was about living out its message. It showed how powerful kindness and generosity can be when people come together to care for one another.

 

On December 15th, we weren’t just a group of individuals sharing a meal. We were a family, a community, celebrating the joy, hope, and love of the season. It’s a night I’ll never forget, not because of the gifts or the work that went into it, but because of the love that filled the room.

Submitted by Rev. Dr. Stephen Moon, Intercultural Mosaics

Ethnic Concerns Consultation (ECC)

2024 Event Report 

The 2024 Ethnic Concerns Consultation (ECC) Event was titled “Voices of Change: Justice from Generation to Generation.” This transformative event united diverse participants to reflect on intergenerational collaboration, cultural diversity, and the shared pursuit of justice and equality. It provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, amplifying voices from different generations and fostering empathy and understanding.


Intergenerational Collaboration and Justice

This year’s conference embodied the spirit of inter-generational collaboration. Attendees from various age groups and backgrounds shared insights on social and racial justice, reflecting on how past struggles inform present efforts and shape the path forward. By fostering unity and amplifying diverse voices, ECC continues to champion a vision for an equitable future.


Keynote Speaker

The keynote address by Rev. Dr. Darrell Hall was a conference highlight. An accomplished author and faith leader, Dr. Hall brought profound insights on intergenerational communication and justice. His keynote underscored the importance of understanding generational perspectives to foster unity and drive meaningful change. For additional information on this topic, please refer to Dr. Hall’s book, Speaking Across Generations: Messages That Satisfy Boomers, Xers, Millennials, Gen Z, and Beyond, released by Intervarsity Press in the Spring of 2022.


Business Meeting Highlights

The business meeting on Saturday, October 19, 2024, served as a dynamic brainstorming session, focusing on the future direction of ECC. One key suggestion was the importance of engaging Generations X and Z to ensure the continuity and relevance of the organization’s mission. Participants recognized the distinct spiritual and social needs of these generations and emphasized the importance of tailored discipleship, engagement strategies, and inter-generational dialogue.


Future Directions

The brainstorming session during the business meeting and participant reflections revealed a shared vision for ECC’s future:

 Deepening engagement with Generations X and Z.

 Expanding discipleship opportunities tailored to diverse age groups.

 Revisiting and revitalizing the original mission of ECC to address contemporary challenges.


Rediscovering Foundational Goals

ECC’s origins lay in the foundational document created during the first Ethnic Consultation on Evangelism and Mission in January 1973. This historic document outlined a mission to address ethnic concerns and develop meaningful Christian outreach for BIPOC individuals. The term BIPOC—highlighting the systemic racial injustices faced by Black and Indigenous communities—remains as relevant as ever. Rediscovering this foundational vision would reaffirm ECC’s commitment to addressing racial injustice while adapting to contemporary challenges.


Acknowledgments

Gratitude is extended to the ECC planning committee for their tireless efforts in organizing this impactful event. Their dedication ensured a Spirit-filled gathering that celebrated diversity and solidarity. As ECC looks to 2025, the seeds sown in 1973 and during this year’s consultation will undoubtedly yield a harvest of racial justice, unity, and growth.

Job Opportunity

Click Here For Job Description

Youth Director, Trinity West Sacramento

Do you like pizza and silly games? Trinity Presbyterian Church of West Sacramento is looking for a part-time Youth Program Director. We have a young youth group of 10-15 enthusiastic students, middle school and early high school age. They love coming on Friday nights for pizza, silly games, and a positive message. Several of them also make a point to attend our Sunday morning youth discussion class, often getting rides to church even if their parents don’t attend. They have powerful questions and curiosity, and are ready to grow in their faith and serve our community. Trinity Church is seeking a leader who is gifted at building relationships with teens, who can guide them in their faith journey, and who is available on Sunday mornings and some weeknights to lead our youth program. We have a supportive staff of other part-time ministry leaders and one full time pastor. For an employment application, please contact Cora Hocker with the personnel department at cbhocker@yahoo.com.

Click Here For Job Description

Poverty Advocacy Resources 

For questions please contact Nancy Disher (916) 792-7725,

NCCP Hunger Action Advocate

Click Here To Read

Digital Media Work Group (DMWG), NCCP

Join the Digital Media Work Group (DMWG), NCCP

Do you love using social media to connect with others and create meaningful conversations? The DMWG, led by Rev. Dr. Stephen Moon, is all about bridging generations and building relationships. We're working together to support worshiping communities and intercultural ministries across NCCP using creative digital tools—because every voice matters, and community thrives when we grow together.

 

What You’ll Get to Do:

  • Share stories and create content that brings people closer
  • Help churches and ministries strengthen their online presence
  • Connect different generations through media that speaks to everyone

 

Who Can Join?

Whether you're a church office manager, communications coordinator, or just someone passionate about social media—we’d love to have you on board.

 

Give 6 months to a year of your time, and together, let’s make a real difference in how we stay connected as a community of faith.

 

Interested?

Reach out to Rev. Dr. Stephen Moon at catalyst@nextg.org or call 916-217-5470.

 

Let’s Stay in Touch:

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/nextgencatalyst  

Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/nextgencatalyst

 

We look forward to creating, growing, and connecting with you—because we’re better together.

Come Join The Conversation


You are invited to join with clergy colleagues who gather via Zoom each week (Tuesday at 1-2pm) to discuss the lectionary passages for the coming Sunday. The group shares thoughts, insights, and questions about the passages. The conversations not only offer differing perspectives, they provide a forum for support and connection.

Come be a part of the conversation!

(If you would like to know more about the group or to join, please e-mail David Ratcliff at davidratcliffu2@gmail.com. We look forward to hearing from you.)

Special Annual Event for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity on Tuesday, January 21, 2025

You are invited to attend a Special Annual Event on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Sponsored by the North State Ecumenical Conference (NSEC), which was established in 1968 and is comprised of Christian faiths in the Greater Sacramento Area.


You are invited to attend this event in person at:

St. Francis of Assisi Church

(916-443-8084)

1114 26th Street Sacramento, California 95816


Event schedule:

11:30 am-12:15 pm - Lunch and Presentation in Brunsman Hall

12:30 pm-1:45 pm - Panel Discussion in Church

2:00 pm-2:45 pm - Worship Service in Church 


Submitted by Nancy Disher, Mission Organizer


Livestream link:

https://www.youtube.com/@StFrancisOfAssisiSacramento

Click Here For More Information And To Register

Youth Triennium 2025

What is Youth Triennium?

A time of worship and faith formation designed by and for young people. Find out more: https://presbyterianyouthtriennium.org


Spread the news to those who will be freshmen through graduated seniors in high school in the summer of 2025 so those interested can attend with others around our presbytery!

Spread the news to wise faithful persons who relate well with young people and are 22 or older and would make a good chaperone.

Spread the news to young adults up to 23 years old who might want to be on the Work Crew.


The presbytery has funds to contribute 1/3 of the cost to attend. Generally, the family contributes 1/3 and the church the other 1/3.


NCCP’s Registrar: Vicki Henderson (St. Andrew Church in Yuba City) … vshgolfer@syix.com  

The February Regular Presbytery Meeting will be in-person only and held at:


Shepherd Of The Sierra

5400 Barton Road

Loomis, CA 95650

North Central California Presbytery

5645 Marconi Ave.

Carmichael, CA, 95608

www.nccpresby.org

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