PNews 9/29/22
The church has been prone to schism from day one, something Paul fought against valiantly in his letters to first-generation churches. If nothing else, World Communion Sunday reminds us at least once a year that our divided state is not how things ought to be. Where better to begin a refusal to exacerbate our differences than by gathering with our fellow-believers – all of them! – at the Lord’s Table? In this week’s meditation, One O’er All the Earth, Rev. Dr. Sheldon W. Sorge explores this question and more.
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Jesus commands us to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves, and he says, “just as you did it to one of the least of these … you did it to me.” Love and justice are essential in the Bible, and justice in America includes the right to vote. The Pittsburgh Presbytery voted in May to adopt a statement called “Citizens’ Right to Vote: A Call to Action,” which noted our church’s long history of supporting voting rights and urged us all to carry on this vital tradition. Now, in this election season, we need to do more. As individuals and congregations we can make a difference. Click here to read more.
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Sponsored by the PC(USA) Financial Aid for Service Office, the Presbyterian Board of Pensions, and PeopleJoy, this is an opportunity to have a dedicated coach talk you through the options available for loan forgiveness and repayment. If you’ve worked at a nonprofit organization, you may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The PC(USA) is offering free debt advising and document preparation for all church leaders, volunteers, those serving on sessions and church staff (including those who may not be members of a PC[USA] church). The Limited Opportunity Waiver expires Oct. 31, so you need to begin the process ASAP! Sign up for free loan coaching at pcusa.org/LoanAssist.
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PC(USA)’s Theology, Formation, and Evangelism is offering several webinars this fall focusing on Evangelism. In addition to the conference “Addressing Harm, Embracing Hope,” join TFE for “Deeper Dive” and “Scattered Church” webinars in October and November. The flyer includes Zoom links.
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COM Boundary Training Policy Update
In 2021, the Commission on Ministry of Pittsburgh Presbytery adopted a new set of requirements for ethical training. The new policy requires that all members of Pittsburgh Presbytery who are active in ministry complete the current ethical training seminar within their first two years as a member of the Presbytery, and complete one ethical training elective every two years thereafter. Click here for more information.
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Boundaries for Working with Children and Youth
An Ethical Training Elective will be offered on October 6, 2022, from 9:00am – 12:00pm at the Pittsburgh Presbytery Office. “Boundaries for Working with Children and Youth” is co-sponsored by the Next Generation Ministry Team and the Commission on Ministry, and will be led by Ed Sutter, Director of Youth Ministry and Family Counseling at Westminster Presbyterian Church. This free event is open to church staff and volunteers. Click here to register.
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Come treat yourself on Monday mornings at 10am to Coffee with Clergy! It’s a space for Pastors to shake off the Monday morning drudge with coffee, laughter, and great conversation among colleagues. B.Y.O.C. (or tea)! This week’s topic, we recently discussed actions taken by General Assembly at our Presbytery meeting. What are your thoughts? Did you even know about General Assembly? Join us Monday morning as we discuss. Click here for the Zoom link.
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