November 29, 2023 | Volume IX, Number 48

Presbytery News and Information

From the Stated Clerk - A Correction

To correct previous written statements: At the November 2023 meeting of Presbytery, the Presbytery Moderator and I observed that the motion to elect Elder Tony De La Rosa had overwhelming support. The motion did not have unanimous approval. The Moderator declared that the motion passed.    David Vaughan

Volunteers Needed for General Assembly

AN $80,000 SCHOLARSHIP OVER 4 YEARS FOR ALL STUDENTS WHO ARE PRESBYTERIAN.

Without any doubt, the success of any large event depends largely on the dedication and selfless contributions of volunteers—the incredible individuals who give generously of their time, energy, and unique talents.

For the upcoming hybrid 226th General Assembly (2024) which will gather both virtually and in-person from June 25 through July 4, 2024, we are inviting a diverse group of individuals to support both the remote and onsite portions of the assembly. From zoom and help desk support to parliamentary support to equity managers to committee assistants and more, we welcome both seasoned volunteers and those who are newly interested in supporting the assembly in this important way.

A listing of the various support roles and a volunteer interest form is now available. Persons who wish to be considered for service as a volunteer are encouraged to submit the volunteer interest form as soon as possible, and no later than January 2, 2024.

We encourage you to share this opportunity for involvement as a volunteer widely—in your mid council and congregational newsletters, and by speaking to persons in whom you recognize gifts for this service. Individuals can email Valerie Izumi, who is coordinating the volunteer process, for more information, to express their interest, and to receive the GA226 Volunteer Interest Form.

The Presbyterian Promise

AN $80,000 SCHOLARSHIP OVER 4 YEARS FOR ALL STUDENTS WHO ARE PRESBYTERIAN.

The Presbyterian Promise Scholarship is a commitment by Presbyterian College (PC) to recognize students for their merit and affiliation with the Presbyterian Church. PC seeks to develop students academically and spiritually in this signature scholarship. Students who are members of Presbyterian churches will receive a scholarship for a minimum of $20,000 per year for up to four years—that’s an $80,000 commitment to you. For more information and to apply, visit our site: www.presby.edu/presbyterian-promise

Sign Up for Peace & Justice Newsletter

The Peace and Justice Task Force invites you to sign up for their monthly newsletter addressing Peace and Justice issues and events. Click the link below to sign up.

Looking Ahead - Upcoming Events

Association of Smaller Congregations

The 2024 conference of the Association of Smaller Congregations will be held February 29-March 3, 2024 at Epworth-by-the-Sea on St. Simons Island, GA. Click the link below for more information.

Parish E Engagement Pastor Rainey Ratchford shared this news of things that are happening in Parish E.

Mount Jefferson Presbyterian Church folks are welcoming visitors to the area to use their porch to pray and walk a labyrinth during Advent.

Another good Advent idea from Elkin Presbyterian Church is to watch Christmas movies and make ornaments to give away during their candlelight service.

For several years, Baird's Creek Presbyterian Church, sets out a gift bag for each member of the church community to collect all those little gifts we like to share (e.g., cookies, cards). You find the person's bag and add your gift to it. The bags are distributed to members before Christmas, sometimes sent by mail.