Leadership Transition Information

In July 2022, Rev. Dr. Sheldon Sorge announced his retirement as the General Minister of Pittsburgh Presbytery as of December 31st, 2022.  As the Presbytery moves through this season of transition, you can check this page for the latest information and resources.

• May 2023
  • Landscape Report
    • The Presbytery body hears the results of the Landscape Study at its stated meeting.
      • View a copy of that presentation
    • The following Landscape Reports are available for download
      • Landscape Report for Pittsburgh Presbytery (February 2023)
      • Landscape Report for Pittsburgh Presbytery (February 2023) – Combined Version – This report includes breakdowns from each of the sub-groups as well as the overall results
      • Our Next Presbytery Leader Report from Landscape for Pittsburgh Presbytery (February 2023)
  • Read Brian’s May Transition Updates Letter for More Information
• April 2023
  • The Special Nominating Committee and the Executive Committee have representatives attending one another’s meetings.
  • A sub-group called the “Next Steps” Committee, comprised of both SNC and EC members, identify a three-phase transition plan
    • Evaluate the Staffing Structure and Leadership Model of the Presbytery
    • Prepare and Approve Ministry Information Form (job posting) for the next Presbytery Leader
    • The SNC will begin reviewing and interviewing candidates, while the EC will focus on insights gained from the Landscape Study.
• March 2023
  • The Executive Committee and Special Nominating Committee members participate in the annual Executive Committee retreat.  The retreat focuses on the Presbytery’s role and purpose and reviews the recent history of Pittsburgh Presbytery.
  • The Executive Committee and Special Nominating Committee receive the report and interpretation of the Landscape Study
  • The Special Nominating Committee is convened and is oriented by Rev. Forrest Claassen, Executive of the Synod of the Trinity.
  • Read Brian’s March Transition Updates Letter for more information
• February 2023
  • The following individuals are elected to serve as the General Minister Special Nominating Committee at the February 2023 Presbytery Meeting.
    • Rev. Laura Strauss (Sunset Hills) – Co-Chair
    • Elder Bucky Savatt (Ken Mawr) – Co-Chair
    • Elder Mark Roth (East Liberty) – Clerk
    • Rev. Brian Janssen (Bethany)
    • Elder Anita Perry (Riverview)
    • Elder Lauren Wolcott (Hot Metal Bridge)
    • Rev. Hunter Farrell (Pittsburgh Seminary)
    • Rev. Gavin Walton (Grace Memorial)
    • Rev. Austin Shelley (Shadyside)
  • Read Brian’s February Transition Updates Letter for more information
• January 2023 – Rev. Louise Rogers begins her service as Temporary Associate Minister, taking on primary responsibilities for congregations in the South Branch and working with the Administrative Commission on Transformation (ACT).
• December 2022 – A celebration and farewell for Dr. Sorge is held as part of the Presbytery meeting.  In addition, the Rev. Louise Rogers is announced as Temporary Associate Minister beginning January 30th, 2023
• November 2022 – The Landscape Study is made available to all members of Pittsburgh Presbytery
• October 2022 – The Executive Committee approves three transitional steps
  • Rev. Brian Wallace, Associate Minister for Emerging Ministries, will serve as Acting Head of Staff.  Other members of the leadership staff (Elder Carla Campbell – Stated Clerk, Rev. Ralph Lowe – Associate Minister), along with Brian, will share the responsibilities of the General Minister during the transition period.
  • The Presbytery will search for a full-time Temporary Associate Minister to serve during the season of transition.
  • The Presbytery will conduct a Landscape Study through Holy Cow Consulting.
• July 2022 – Rev. Dr. Sheldon Sorge announces his retirement