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Attendance -42: 12 minister members; 19 ruling elders; 3 corresponding members; 7 guests; 1 presbytery staff.
The Presbytery Gathering began with worship led by Nathan Leslie, pastor at Petersburg & Bessemer Presbyterian Churches, and Chip Hardwick, Synod of the Covenant Executive. Nathan and Kori Robbins presided over the Lord's Table.
Following worship, we moved into the business of the presbytery. Mike Shepherd & Kori Robbins, our 226 GA commissioners, reported on their experience of attending GA along with a report of their committee work. Chip Hardwick shared greetings and updates on behalf of the Synod of the Covenant. Carol Gesacion brought two new policy recommendations from COM. Both the Family Leave Policy and the 2025 Minimum Terms of Call passed unanimously. Dan Schomer reported that the Resource Committee is excited to share that the Pastors Retreat is scheduled for October 2-3 and encourages our pastors and CREs to attend for a time of reflection, relaxation, and rekindling of friendships. The Committee would also like to encourage congregations to take part in the upcoming Peace and Global Witness special offering. On behalf of the Committee on Nominations and Representation, Ruby Riley brought forth nominations for 2025. Having no nominations from the floor, all nominations passed unanimously. With no other business, the meeting was adjourned, and folks were invited to Bessemer Presbyterian Church to enjoy a picnic dinner under their pavilion.
After dinner, the evening continued down the street at the Mohawk Coffee (MoCo) House with a celebration of the ministry being done at MoCo, and the vital work being done in the community. MoCo, a collaborative effort by church leaders from various denominations, serves as a welcoming space for fellowship and outreach, fostering connections among the Mohawk community and disciples of Christ. Bryce Wiebe’s leadership at Eastminster was also celebrated with heartfelt recognition. Prayers were offered as he prepares for his new role in Kentucky. To express our gratitude for his time with us, Bryce received a gift basket filled with meaningful items that reflect the love and support of his friends in Ohio.
The Presbytery Gathering was a time of worship, fellowship, business, and imagination. It was exciting to hear about the positive experiences of our GA commissioners and to see important policy recommendations being passed. With a little imagination, we can accomplish so much, such as
creative solutions by thinking out of the box; building connections by enabling empathy to allow for understanding of different perceptives; vision for the future by setting goals and pursuing dreams; and so much more! In essence, a little imagination opens the door to endless possibilities, shaping not only our individual lives but also the world around us!
The designated offering was the Bessemer City Community Garden & Project HOPE food pantry (Mohawk Schools). We will continue to accept offering donations until August 31 through the Presbytery Payment Portal (scroll to the Presbytery Meeting Offering giving line) OR Treasurers can send a check to Eastminster Presbytery / PO Box 14439 / Poland, OH 44514. Indicate "Aug 13 offering" or "Mohawk Ministries - Petersburg " in the memo line.
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