Giving Thanks

As we gather around tables filled with gratitude and celebration, the Presbytery of Baltimore wants to extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering commitment, steadfast example, and tireless dedication to our faith community.

On this Thanksgiving week, we are profoundly grateful for your leadership, and we look forward to continuing our journey of faith together. May this week be a reflection of the abundant blessings we share as a church family. We wish you and your loved ones a blessed and joyous Thanksgiving holiday!

A Decade with The Slate Project:

Redefining Community Ministry

In 2013, my journey as a community pastor in Baltimore began, taking an unexpected turn towards a unique and impactful ministry alongside my co-pastors, the Rev. Jason Chesnut and the Rev. Dr. Sara Shisler Goff. Little did I know that this endeavor, known as The Slate Project, would redefine my understanding of community-based ministry, transcending traditional boundaries and embracing physical and digital connections.

It all began when the bishop of the Delaware-Maryland Synod supported my ELCA co-pastor, Jason Chesnut, to try something. Ten years later, we are still exploring what God calls us to create. Unlike conventional ministries, Slate thrives without a physical space, neither owning nor renting. Our Monday night dinner church, characterized by family-style gatherings around borrowed tables, epitomizes our commitment to a tri-denominational community (Lutheran, Episcopalian, and Presbyterian), where denominational distinctions blur amidst shared purpose, echoing the teachings of Jesus in breaking bread and fostering community.

Choosing borrowed spaces for our gatherings isn't merely a logistical choice; it's a deliberate strategy that echoes through our community's outreach. By avoiding the financial burden of a dedicated space, we've redirected resources toward eviction prevention, prescriptions, groceries, and other fundamental needs—actions rooted in the compassionate spirit of Jesus. In 2023 alone, we've provided over $9,000 in crucial assistance, embodying the love and care exemplified by Jesus for our neighbors in need.

The absence of a physical office doesn't confine us; it liberates us. Operating without a designated space propels our community into public realms, fostering connections and encounters that extend far beyond our regular attendees. Our engagements go beyond the conventional boundaries of a faith community, placing us at the forefront of social issues. From eviction court advocacy to assisting individuals with housing forms and food assistance requests, our faith community embodies the principles of Matthew 25, as we strive to be the hands and feet of Jesus as he shows up in the least of these.

Our connections extend even further in the digital realm, embracing an inclusive community that transcends geographical limitations. Through various online platforms, we foster spiritual growth, support, and engagement, creating a space where the teachings of Jesus resonate beyond physical boundaries, and give voice to a progressive Christianity for the 21st-century.

As we reflect on a decade of The Slate Project, it's clear that our unconventional approach to community ministry has not only defied norms but has become a transformative force for good. The absence of physical constraints has allowed us to redefine the scope of our impact, making us not just a community within walls but a compassionate presence resonating throughout Baltimore and beyond—a living testament to the teachings and love of Jesus Christ.

- Rev. Jennifer DiFrancesco

ISO SMRT Team Members

The Sexual Misconduct Response Team (SMRT) is in need of additional members, especially men, BIPOC, and laypersons. The SMRT is responsible for the boundary training of Ministers CREs, Candidates etc. and supports and resources sessions for developing their own training. The SMRT does not investigate accusations of sexual misconduct. For a fuller description of the work of this important team see pages 3-4 of the Presbytery's Sexual Misconduct Policy. Please submit names to the Stated Clerk, Mary Gaut, mgaut@baltimorepresbytery.org

The Clerk's Corner

Thanks to all Clerks of Session who participated in the records reviews this past summer and fall. It is always good to meet face to face and share the wisdom so many of you have from years of faithful service in this role.

For those who like to plan ahead, The statistical reporting portal will be open to churches on December 1. I'll be sending more about this annual task AFTER Thanksgiving but BEFORE Christmas. So...stay tuned and have a terrific holiday.

Matthew 25 Summit Scholarships Available

The Dismantling Racism Team (DRT) is organizing a group from the Presbytery of Baltimore to attend the Presbytery Mission Agency’s first Matthew 25 Summit and offering scholarships up to $500. Congregations may receive only one scholarship for the summit.

Attendees receiving financial support will be expected to meet online with the team before the summit and check-in with the team during the summit. We will also meet after we return home to share our experience and learnings presbytery-wide. Visit our website for application and additional criteria here.

The deadline for scholarship applications is December 12, 2023

The deadline to register for the summit is January 2, 2024

One Book, One Presbytery

Church Educators, Teaching Elders and Education Committees: Explore The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein, and make this 6-week opportunity part of your plans for Eastertide 2024. Save the dates!

• 6 weekly discussions – on Zoom
• Mondays, April 8 – May 6, 6:30 – 8:00 pm
• Special guests provide insight to the major topics
• Facilitated small group discussion

Sponsored by the Presbytery of Baltimore Dismantling Racism Team and In the Loop Ministry Group. (Full participation in the program will meet the Dismantling Racism training requirement.)

Spring Courses at St. Mary's

You are invited to join St. Mary's Ecumenical Institute for a vibrant, diverse learning community of individuals pursuing professional excellence and personal growth through graduate theological study and ministry formation. Spring courses include Transformational Servant Leadership, Race in Modern Christian History, and The Psalms. Classes can be taken in person or by synchronous Zoom. Auditors and visiting students are welcome. More information at: stmarys.edu/ei or contact gzook@stmarys.edu

Administrative Assistant

Harundale Presbyterian Church is seeking an Administrative Assistant to join its office. The Administrative Assistant is responsible for performing all functions connected with the administration of the office of Harundale Presbyterian Church, serves in a supportive and helpful role to the clergy and boards of the Church, advises the clergy on administrative details and maintains confidentiality in dealing with private church matters. Full job description

Pianist/Organist

First Presbyterian Church in Bel Air, MD (FPC) is seeking a part-time Pianist/Organist. The Pianist or Organist works in conjunction with the Pastor and Music Director by performing music from the piano or organ which contributes to the musical portion of worship services. This includes using the piano and/or organ to provide a prelude and postlude for Sunday and Special services, leading the congregation in hymns, and providing accompaniment for the choir, soloists, and musicians for the praise of God. Please submit resume, and references to office@firstpresbelair.org

Head of Staff

Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church is seeking a called Head of Staff to lead our 1200 member, Severna Park congregation. The PNC is accepting self-referrals at this time, including those from clergy couples, at the following address: PNC@woodschurch.org. For more information, visit the church’s website at www.woodschurch.org/interim-ministry.

Visit the Presbytery's website for additional employment listings.