02.14.25

A Message from Rev. Dr. Mary Newbern-Williams, NYC Presbytery's Transitional Presbyter

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY

THE GIFT THAT FEBRUARY BRINGS

During each February the gifts, contributions, professional achievements, and knowledge of inventions by African Americans are at the forefront for the world to acknowledge. The nation and the world learn of African Americans who have given their time, talents, and treasures to make the world, the nation, communities, and lives better for everyone. Developed by Harvard Graduate, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Black History Month was originally launched as “Negro History Week,” in February 1926. The purpose of this commemoration/celebration brings recognition for contributions that history books have ignored and even today do not give justice.

Social media, documentaries, You Tube, podcasts, and news stories will give attention to  Americans have done and still do today. These programs bring awareness to the gifts of many. As Presbyterians, we may concentrate upon the work of The Rev. Dr. Francis Grimke, his brother Attorney Archibald Grimke, their brother John Grimke, Educator Lucy Craft Laney, Mission Coworker (Missionary/Educator) Betsey Stockton, Mission Coworker (Missionary/Pastor) The Rev. Dr. William Henry Sheppard, Mission Coworker (Missionary/Educator) Maria Fearing, and many others of history.

Let us remember Educator Mary Jane Patterson, considered to be the first or one of the first African Americans to receive a B.A. Degree (Oberlin College), Robert Smalls, who escaped slavery from Beaufort South Carolina and commandeered a Confederate transport ship, leading his crew, friends, and family to freedom. He later became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from South Carolina; Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a professional of Puerto Rican descent who spent much of his life studying, sharing, and documenting Black history. The Center that bears his name is located in Harlem. Many of the names you have seen here are those that you know. However, there are those who are less well-known. Let us be challenged to research and learn about those people—those whom we may not know. Let us remember teachers, counselors, pastors, parents, and friends of our families who committed themselves to the excellent development so many.

 Let us seek to make EVERYDAY and EVERY MONTH a time of celebration for those who have given so much to this nation.

How is your church, how is your community, and how are YOU commemorating and celebrating Black History Month? Dear Friends, I am fortunate to be preaching for First Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn this coming Sunday. I look forward to the fellowship and the worship.

Let us celebrate this month by focusing upon the achievements of many who have been overlooked regarding the fine contributions they have made. Let us work together to lift up the importance of knowing and learning that Black History is American History.

As mentioned in a previous article, this year and for as long as New York City Presbytery will have me, I will lift up the special months of Indigenous/Native American Heritage Month, Latino/a/Mexican American History Month, and others. This sharing of our history will emphasize our blended gifts, contributions, and commitment to the nation and the world. God bless us, EVERYONE!!!!!

Mary Newbern-Williams

Transitional Presbyter

Mark Your Calendars for These Important Upcoming Presbytery Events

NYC Presbytery Seeks a part-time Justice Ministry Advocate

The Justice Ministries Committee is looking for a part-time Advocate! This position requires a passion for justice, some writing ability, some organizing skills, and a heart for mission and ministry. Anyone who is interested in this position, please refer to the job description

News from the Office of the Stated Clerk

News from the Commission on Ministry (COM)

Annual Reports from All Validated Ministers

Each minister in validated ministry must request annually that the presbytery (by way of the Presbytery's Commission on Ministry (COM)) re-validate their ministry with the presbytery. That request must include a summary of your work over the past year, your current compensation, and a description of your service within the presbytery beyond your validated ministry.

2025 Compensation for Ministers, Moderators, and Pulpit Supply

At the December 3, 2024 stated meeting of the Presbytery the Commission on Ministry (COM) brought a motion (approved at COM's Nov. 5^th meeting) requesting that the Presbytery affirm its vote regarding the 2025 Pastor's Minimum Compensation, the compensation for Pulpit Supply, and for COM appointed Moderators.

The Presbytery approved the following for 2025

Effective Salary: Increase by 3.25%.

Pulpit supply: New range of $300

Moderator: New range of $300 - $350

Click here for full details

2025 Commission on Ministry Meeting Dates

An Invitation from the Board of Trustees

The Four P's

Proper Preparation Prevents Problems

New York City Presbytery's Board of Trustees invites you to join them for a discussion on Best Practices for the church office, its finances and property.

This virtual event is open to everyone. It will take place on Monday, March 10th at 5:00 PM. Registration is required.

Georgiette Morgan-Thomas, NYC Presbytery's Property Consultant will discuss;

• Winter to Spring property check list
• Violation prevention
• The in and outs of insurance and how to prevent claims

James Tse, NYC Presbytery's Financial Controller will discuss;

• Employee coverage - payroll, workers comp/pension
• Presbytery tools, i.e. Synod loans

Keith Hutson, NYC Presbytery's Board of Trustees Co-Chair will discuss;

• Property Maintenance - sidewalks, plumbing, heating and AC's, windows & doors, etc.
• Inspection compliance - elevator, boiler, exit/emergency lights, fire extinguishers, kitchen ANSUL, sprinkler, kitchen exhaust, and fire alarm systems
• General housekeeping - clear pathways, egress doors, trip and fall hazards, signage, snow removal plan, etc.

There will be a time for Q&A. When you register there will be space for you to submit any questions and or comments. Submitting your questions in advance will give the presenters an opportunity to have answers prepared.

IRS Bumps 2025 Business Use Mileage Rate to 70 Cents Per Mile

The IRS has once again increased the business use mileage rate. Moving, medical, and charitable rates remain unchanged.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released the 2025 optional standard mileage rates. These rates are used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Effective January 1, 2025, the rates are:

70 cents per mile driven for business use (up 3 cents from the 2024 rate).

21 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes for certain members of the Armed Forces (no change from the 2024 rate).

14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations (it takes an act of Congress to change this rate).

Note: The rates apply to electric and hybrid-electric automobiles, as well as gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles.

A Message from the Nominating Committee

There are many open spots on the Presbytery’s commissions and committees—Commission on Ministry; Commission on Preparation for Ministry; Commission on Mission, Budget & Corporate Responsibility (Board of Trustees); Committee on Congregational Ministry & Nurture; Justice Ministries, Standing Rules, and more!! These Commissions and Committees are vital to the functioning of Presbytery. To serve on a commission, you need to be a Ruling Elder or Minister of Word and Sacrament, but you do not have to be ordained to serve on a committee. There is a place for everyone: those who have a lot of time and energy to give, those with limited time, those with a lot of knowledge of how the PCUSA works and the wisdom to support pastors and churches, those who may be new Presbyterians, those with a passion for justice and outreach, those with an eye and head for details, those who can support candidates for ministry, those who can support immigrant church fellowships, and polity nerds!!

We need people with a variety of gifts from a variety of backgrounds! Please talk to your Session and congregations and discern together who might have the gifts, time, and energy to serve on a Presbytery commission or committee. To be a healthy, well-functioning Presbytery, we need you!

Contact the Rev. Eric Toodles at etoodles@aol.com, or Elder Renee Stout at bezzi421@gmail.com with your suggestions for nominees! They are eager to hear from you! 

News from the Committee on Congregational Ministry & Nurture (CM&N) - Holmes Camp & Retreat Center Scholarships are Available

Upon the dissolution of the Presbyterian Church of the Redeemer East Brooklyn, the Presbytery of New York City became the beneficiary of the Dorothy Hervey Roedder Scholarship Fund which is administered by the Presbyterian Foundation.

According to the agreement the income from the Fund is established for scholarships. The Board of Trustees approved at its May 3, 2021 meeting to use the funds for scholarships to Holmes Camp & Retreat Center. The Board of Trustees have also requested that Congregational Ministry & Nurture develop a scholarship program and award these funds.

These scholarships will be offered to individuals from our congregations that have a financial need, for the sole purpose of attending a congregational event at Holmes Camp & Retreat Center. 

All applications must be emailed to CMN@presbynyc.org.

News from the Synod of the Northeast

For generations, churches have served as the heart of community life, acting as catalysts for change and beacons of hope. This conference builds on that legacy, offering faith communities the empowering tools to harness their unique strengths and foster transformative partnerships.

Participants will be part of a collaborative effort, exploring strategies for engaging with local organizations, nonprofits, and community leaders to address pressing challenges and create lasting impact. Through dynamic workshops, inspiring speakers, and collaborative sessions, the event will equip church leaders, members, and organizers with actionable tools to strengthen relationships, expand their reach, and cultivate a thriving culture of partnership rooted in shared faith and a commitment to addressing common needs.

Hosting Organizations:

This event is hosted by the Synod of the Northeast in collaboration with Reverend Patrick O’Connor (First Presbyterian Church, Jamaica, New York), the Tree of Life Nonprofit, and other civic and community leaders.

Conference Themes and Goals

• Explore the pivotal role of faith in fostering partnerships and driving community transformation, woven throughout plenary presentations, workshops, and panel discussions.
• Learn practical strategies for engaging with community organizations and repurposing church spaces, supported by case studies of successful partnerships with nonprofits, health centers, housing initiatives, and educational institutions.
• Simplify the process of public grant writing with accessible guidance.
• Discover effective ways to engage with local governments, civic organizations, and interfaith partners.
• Address challenges and opportunities in mobilizing resources and building sustainable church-community partnerships, with open discussions and shared solutions.
• Gain actionable strategies for mobilizing missional direct services and creating meaningful community change.

News from PC(USA)'s Board of Pensions

2025 benefits enhancement and partner updates

As a reminder, here are some updates and enhancements to the benefits we offer:

• Beginning Jan. 1, 2025, Spring Health will replace Cigna as the service provider of the Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), offering mental health care navigation in addition to the EAP services you know. You’ll receive more details soon about Spring Health and how your staff will access care.
• Medical Plan members in the PPO, EPO, and HDHP will receive new medical ID cards for 2025 from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield beginning in December. They can continue to use their current Express Scripts prescription drug ID cards. (In 2025, new members will access their prescription drug ID cards virtually.)
• A new online care navigation website from Quantum Health launched in October 2024. Medical Plan members in the PPO, EPO, and HDHP have received communications from Quantum Health about how to reregister for service through the new website.
• If members have flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) through Further, they should look for information previously sent to them in October about a change in administration to HealthEquity, effective Jan. 1, 2025. For more information, call HealthEquity at 866-711-4860; members can call 844-351-6856.

Please email me or call me at 215-587-7239 with any questions you may have. Or you can always call the Board at 800-PRESPLAN (800-773-7752) (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. We are here to serve you.

We wish you, your congregations, and your loved ones all the hope and renewal of spirit this Advent season brings and all the blessings that come with it.

In peace,

Rev. Dr. Carrie Mitchell

Church Consultant

215-587-7239

Marianne Moore (1887-1972), a triple-crowned queen of poetry and tricorne hat wearer, is remembered by many.

There are those who pull her story to the present through the reading of her words, all those lines of rhythm, all those phrases and ideas that earned her three laurels: the National Book Award, the Pulitzer Prize and the Bollingen Prize. But there are also those who remember how she stood and sang in her pew at Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn, New York, those who find, within her poems, echoes of moments shared du ring worship.

This week marks 53 years since Moore’s passing and the subsequent funeral at her home church that was attended by 200 mourners. Though I’d penned an essay about Marianne in 2022, posted on the PHS blog for Women’s History Month, I was unaware of this anniversary, and ignorant of many of the details of her life. But thanks to Edward Moran, a member of the Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, I am now a converted Moore-ophile... Read more

National Black Presbyterian Caucus

The National Black Presbyterian Caucus' newsletter brings you "Community News for Everyone in the Pews" Their current issueis now available.

Featured articles in this issue are...

• The Interim Unified Agency Brings Significant Change to the PCUSA Structure
• Hard Saying Goodbye
• Unification: 2025
• President's Corner
• Regional News
• Events
• Employment Opportunities
• NBPC Social Media, Membership and Contact Information

Your Ministry Website: A Living Platform, Not an Archive

Your ministry’s website is one of the most powerful tools you have to reach people, share your mission, and build community. However, to fulfill its purpose, it must be a vibrant, living platform—not a digital archive of old information. A website that feels stagnant, outdated, or cluttered with past content can miss the opportunity to inspire and engage visitors actively.

Learn why your website should focus on being a forward-facing resource and how to avoid turning it into an archive... CONTINUE READING

What Every Pastor Should Know

We understand the challenges you face every day. Knowing where to look to find answers is key. So, here's an easy start:

What a Pastor Should Know [Free ebook]

There is more to leading a church than what happens on Sunday. Equip yourself to better understand 3 key essentials for running your church:

• Understand the importance of church constitution and bylaws.
• Uncover five common issues.
• Evaluate church insurance, including action points to take.

Read Now >>

An opportunity for an engaging and informative community safety event! Doors open at 5:30 PM for an hour of networking and access to resource tables featuring the NYPD, FDNY, NYC Emergency Management and more. The event kicks off at 6:30 PM with speakers covering critical topics such as life-saving techniques, fire prevention & extinguishing methods, flood prevention strategies and the key steps to organizing your safety plan. Participation in this event will give you a chance to win a Go Bag!

Click here to register!

Register Now for NYDIS Disaster Chaplain Certification & Religious Literacy Training - April 8 - 10

Seeking and Posting Calls and Employment Opportunities

The Northeast Crossroads Call Finder is a partnership of 15 presbyteries in the New York City/Philadelphia metro regions to assist congregations and other entities in connecting congregations seeking pastors and staff with pastors and others answering the call to service in the church. Call Finders goal is to connect church professionals with congregational ministry opportunities in the 15 presbyteries that serve the greater New York City and Philadelphia metro region. Email Yzette Swavy-Lipton to list a position on mynextcallpcusa.org. If you post an opening on Call Finder you are asked to let Yzette know if your position have been filled so that it can be taken down from the site.

News from the Pews



Prayers and Concerns

• Prayers are extended Rev. Dr. Carrie Mitchell (NYC Presbytery's Board of Pensions' Church Consultant), on the January 30^th death of her beloved stepmom and the February 10^th death of her beloved father.
• Prayers are extended to the family and to Church of the Master on the recent death of Elder Sally Howard (Church of the Master)
• Congregations seeking pastoral leadership
• Elder Dorette Winslow (Laconia Presbyterian Church)
• New York City Presbytery Committees and Commissions
• Pastors, CRE's, and Ruling Elders serving our congregations
• Pastors in new ministries
• Practicing Matthew 25 in our churches and communities
• Congregations engaged in special ministries and missional projects
• New York City Presbytery's Young Adult Volunteers (YAV's) program.

Employment Opportunities Within and Around the Presbytery of NYC

Congregational Searches on PC(USA)'s NEW CLC System

The following congregations in our presbytery are currently engaged in active searches. These Ministry Discernment Profiles (MDP) are posted to CLC's website:

• Whitestone First Presbyterian Church, Solo Pastor, Part-time (3/4 time)
• Church of the Master, Designated Pastor/Head of Staff, Part-time (20 hrs.)
• First Presbyterian Church, Far Rockaway, Solo Pastor, Part-time (3/4 time)
• Presbyterian Church of St. Albans, Solo Pastor, Full-time
• First Presbyterian Church of Springfield Gardens, Solo Pastor, Part-time

Congregations within our presbytery are currently seeking to fill these positions:

• Presbyterian Church of St. Albans, Senior Pastor, Full-time, click here for details

Entities outside of New York City Presbytery's the bounds seeking to fill positions:

2025 Compensation for Installed Minister's Minimum Compensation

Church Leadership Connection

Church Leadership Connection (CLC), is the internet-based matching and referral system of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

Call seeking individuals and call providers can access the system at clc.pcusa.org.

The Church Leadership Connection (CLC) staff is here to serve you. If you need any assistance or have questions about the new system, contact them by phone at 888-728-7228, ext. 8550, or by email at clcstaff@pcusa.org.

Help your congregation's members stay connected with the latest news and opportunities in and around the presbytery by subscribing to Happenings In & Around the Presbytery, the Presbytery's electronic newsletter. Keep members updated and apprised of Presbyterian events, resources, grants, and opportunities.  Have members fill out the contact information form so that their email addresses can be added to our subscribers list. Click here for the Contact Information Form. Once completed email the form to Yzette Swavy-Lipton in the Presbytery office.