August 26, 2021
Coming soon: The 892nd Gathering
Two weeks from today. That’s how soon the next Gathering of the Presbytery is, and we’re hoping you can join us Thursday morning on the 9th. Wheels are turning as plans take shape, and since we are meeting online, we are keeping the business meeting to less than two hours. There will be lively worship, a message from Rev. Warren J. Lesane, Jr., Executive & Stated Clerk of the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic, several retirees to honor, and much more.

Stick around for the “Lunch Bunch” to catch up with your colleagues around the state, and join one of several conversation groups in the afternoon.
Speaking of Conversation Groups
Do you have a program or topic to share? Contact us if you are interested in hosting a presentation and/or dialogue in an afternoon breakout session. We’d love spread the word and engage others in those efforts.

Got good news?
We can’t emphasize how much we’d like to share it. Churches across our region are undertaking wonderful ministries and transformational outreach. Many are re-inventing the ways they connect with their congregations and neighbors, and we’d like to acknowledge the great achievements of all our congregations, however large or small, so drop us a line and let us know.
Summer action for Susquehanna Parish
Check out these terrific pictures from the Susquehanna Parish July 31 Work Day at the Glenwood Community Center.
If you or your group is interested in planning or joining a mission day, email McKenna Lewellen of The Center.
ICYMI: Afghanistan evacuations and refugees
Baltimore's Susan Krehbiel penned an excellent article for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance last week that is a must-read. It describes what PDA is doing and how individuals and churches can help the people of Afghanistan during this humanitarian crisis.

In the short term, their priority will be to find a safe place. Our hearts go out to those who are trying to flee and those with no place to go. Please lend your voice in prayer and learn more about what can be done to help.
Baltimore Presbytery Podcast Episode 4: McKenna Lewellen
Rev. José López-Chapa is back again with the fourth installment of the Baltimore Presbytery Podcast. This episode features an in-depth discussion with Rev. McKenna Lewellen, Assistant Director of The Center Baltimore, and one of our most recently ordained pastors.
Cautions and coverage from the Insurance Board
Churches should stay current on guidelines and recommendations of the Center for Disease Control (CDC), and adhere to best practices as set forth by state and local authorities. The new protocols your church develops will take time to communicate and implement to ensure the safety of all. We encourage churches to use caution, diligence, and consistency in protecting the health of participants, employees, volunteers, congregants and visitors. To that end, the Insurance Board has provided some very important guidance during this crisis.
The latest issuance points out that that if someone sues your congregation because they allege that they got COVID during worship, the Insurance Board would not cover that suit!
This short two-pager describes the importance of appraisals, abuse preventions, boundary training, and human resource challenges that many churches may find vital.
Seeking GA Commissioners
Are you a Ruling Elder or a Teaching Elder in our Presbytery? Would you (or someone you know) consider serving as one of our General Assembly Commissioners next summer?

The 225th General Assembly (2022) will be unusual. All commissioners are asked to set aside Friday, June 17 through Saturday July 9, 2022 for now. Each commissioner will be assigned to a committee and will go IN PERSON to Louisville for your committee meeting (4 nights) sometime during the last two weeks of June. Each commissioner will also be expected to attend online worship and plenary sessions on Saturday, June 18 and from Tuesday-Saturday, July 5-9, 2022. These online and in person meetings can run 12 hours per day. (Find more details regarding expectations at Expectations of Commissioner and Advisory Delegates)

The Presbytery of Baltimore Nominating Committee welcomes you to complete this online form with the name and contact information of the person you are suggesting by September 15. You can contact Rev. Deborah McEachran, Chair of the Nominating Committee, with any questions.
Upcoming Events
Presbyterian Older Adult Ministries Network

The 2021 National Conference is October 26-28
The National POAMN conference will feature Donna and Dennis Haines from Missouri, leading the music and worship. The Keynoter is internationally-recognized author and speaker Missy Buchanan, from Texas. Aliong with workshop leaders, she plans to bring a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and experience in addressing the many aspects associated with aging.
The total cost for three days is only $75, and if your time is limited you will be able to use the pass code issued only to paid registrants to watch at your leisure after the conclusion of the conference. More information and registration

Faith Church Neighborhood Free-for-All - Free household goods, furniture, toys, artwork and other items - Come and help them reuse and recycle. 10 am – 1 pm on the south lawn (Loch Raven and Woodbourne) Rain date Sunday, 2-4 pm

The 892nd Gathering of the Presbytery of Baltimore - The next Gathering of the Presbytery of Baltimore is scheduled for Thursday, September 9th, 2021 at 10 am. Visit our website for forthcoming information, details and registration.

Shenandoah Presbytery is excited to announce plans for their Big Event at Massanetta Springs Conference Center, Harrisonburg, VA: "When did we See You?" with Rev.Jimmie Ray Hawkins, Keynote Speaker, and Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, Preacher, and afternoon workshops Cost is 20$ and includes lunch. For more information, contact Nancy Mehan Yao. To register, visit https://shenpres.org/the-big-event/

In The Loop Picnic: Bring a chair or blankets and they’ll cover the rest, including free burgers! Gather together to pray, eat, and play from 3-6 pm in the Woodlands at Catonsville Presbyterian Church. For more information text or call Kenny (443-415-1652) or Annette (410-207-2520) - Download Flyer

Whatever you're doing, prepare to mask, encourage neighbors and loved ones to get vaccinated, and stay safe!
Help Wanted
Chestnut Grove Presbyterian Church on Sweet Air Road in Jacksonville is looking for enthusiastic, spirit-led people to help their vision of sharing God’s love with a congregation and wider community! Positions are open for Christian education leader(s) for all school ages and their families (Family Life), and a communications facilitator to support connections within and between the church staff, congregation, and the many community groups that use our valuable facilities (Community Life). We are looking for experienced and qualified candidates, who above all view their role as an expression of God’s love, a call to follow in Jesus’ way of truth and grace, and a cultivation of the fruits of his Spirit, which result in renewed relationships, restored trust, and refreshed souls. More information
First Presbyterian Church (FPC) of Annapolis is seeking an interim Music Director and Organist beginning September 1, 2021 until new permanent employees are found. One person may fill both positions if qualified or two separate individuals will be hired. FPC currently has a talented choir of about 40 people who provide music for the weekly Sunday services. Additional info is below.

> Music Director
The Music Director will organize, manage, and direct all aspects of the First Presbyterian Church music program, in cooperation with the pastoral and program ministers. The Music Director will exhibit a high level of musical skills, as well as leadership, education, and communication skills in the development, enrichment and maintenance of the church’s music program. She/he will support a well-rounded music ministry, which combines innovation and tradition and unites both trained and untrained talent. Job Description

> Organist
The Organist will be responsible for playing the organ/piano for all services and special events in cooperation with the pastoral and program ministers. The Organist will exhibit a high level of musical skills that contribute to the enrichment and maintenance of the church’s music program. She/he will collaborate with the Music Director in the support of a well-rounded music ministry, combining innovation and tradition and uniting both trained and untrained talent. Job Description

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