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The Presbytery of Great Rivers is seeking a Lead Presbyter—a relational, visionary leader ​to serve 81 congregations across central and west-central Illinois.
Rooted in Matthew 25 ministry and living into a new, collaborative structure, we’re looking for someone who will:
- Build connections across diverse congregations
- Support and nurture pastoral leaders
- Guide churches through transition and innovation
- Help shape the future of a presbytery ready for what’s next
This is a full-time call beginning Fall 2026.
đź“… Apply by June 30, 2026
📧 greatriverssearch@gmail.com
🔎Find more information and a full job description here.
| From the Bridge Presbyter | |
Hi, John Rickard here. Your Bridge Presbyter before Ann and now your Bridge Presbyter till your next Lead Presbyter. I am available by phone at 309 683 6983 or email jrickard@greatriverspby.org. I keep the phone with me, so that is the best way to reach me if you need me in a reasonably short time. I check my email a couple of times a day at most. I am contracted to work 20 hours on average, but I don’t really keep a log. So, call or email anytime.
As we begin this time together, I'm one and a half weeks in and still getting my head around things. One matter is your new structure, and I am excited to work with you in getting that successfully implemented. In my experience and study, I have learned that all sorts of structures can work. It is the people behind that structure that matter, because that is where the commitment, the love, and the passion lie.
And, as you know, the General Assembly is quickly approaching in a couple of weeks. If you haven’t started praying for the Assembly, please do. There are some significant issues to be addressed, and the commissioners need the prayerful support of the entire church to do their faithful work. Especially, lift up our Great Rivers Commissioners—Rev. Joyce Chamberlin, Elder Julio Garcia, Rev. Lonna Lee, Elder Gary Terpstra, and Rev. Elissa Bailey—that they may listen for God’s Spirit moving among the Assembly. Having been both a commissioner and an observer over the years, to experience that presence is very moving.
Well, thanks for thinking of me for this time in your Presbytery’s life. May God bless our work together.
Rev. John Rickard
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Hello from your finance team,
Mailing Address
Please include an 'ATTN:' line when addressing correspondence to the presbytery to ensure it is routed to the appropriate presbytery staff member.
Per Capita
2026 Per Capita: $39 per member based on 12/31/24 final membership reported
GA: $11.26 Synod: $3.81 PGR: $23.93
Thank you to the 26 churches that have paid their 2026 per capita in full!
2026 Offering Seasons
Please note that all gifts remitted for Peace & Global Witness will be received as the World Communion Offering. Gifts remitted for the Pentecost offering will now be received as gifts for the Christmas Joy Offering.
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As we transition into a more relaxed (maybe) time and the season of summer, I’m reminded that we still might be lingering in that in-between time. Even when difficult events/things have occurred, maybe moving forward isn’t quite so easy. Not so long ago was the Easter season, not just the day or week, but a season where we journeyed the darkness of Christ’s death to awaken to the resurrection of Jesus and an eternal promise of hope and life everlasting. And maybe there’s still a little cloud of doubt and despair clinging to our thoughts. Why? Because we’re human. Sometimes even the brightest sun still casts a shadow but the good news is that it doesn’t stay there very long. Or at least we shouldn’t let it linger.
In the middle of seasonal changes, reality still exists. For the last 3-4 months I’ve been involved in a weekly radio “spot” with Mel Roustio on Coping with Grief. This began as a response to the tragic accident that claimed the life of Jacksonville High School student/athlete, Addy Johnson and three others who were seriously injured. Along with other area teens who have died within the last year, the need to not ignore but address the emotional toll of grief and its impact on our community was the impetus for this program.
I’m certainly familiar with this journey of grief after burying both our sons and trying to find that light in the darkness. And I’m not alone. Many have buried children, husbands, wives, parents, siblings, and friends and felt the sting of absence while trying to absorb this new life. It’s never easy, nor should it be. But, along with the loss, we need to remember the love. It’s why it hurts so much. When I stand back from the heartache and reach for the love, I breathe a little easier. Because they died, they have lived. And they knew they were loved. Their gifts didn’t go with them. The blessings of those we’ve loved and “lost” are reminders to be held in our hearts and need to be held closely. I hide mine in still moments, in noisy crowds, and in surprising sights that make me catch my breath because I cherish what was, even when it’s not enough.
I hope that each of you find that moment where the darkness of a loved one’s absence reminds you of their presence and the promise that eternal reunions begin not only because Christ died but that he lived. Yay for the seasons of hope and change!
Nancy Bork

Nancy is a ruling elder at First Presbyterian Church of Jacksonville, Illinois.
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This Pride Month, take some time to explore insightful books from Westminster John Knox Press that uplift LGBTQIA+ voices, deepen our understanding of inclusive ministry, and help congregations grow in welcome and justice.

Whether you're a pastor, educator, or an ally who wants to learn more, these resources can support faithful conversations, preaching, and discipleship rooted in God’s expansive love.
Explore WJK's Pride collection here.
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Pastor Information Form
All pastors—Ministers of Word and Sacrament, Commissioned Ruling Elders, and others—please complete the Pastor Information Form and return it to Brandy Walters (bwalters@greatriverspby.org) by June 30.
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This month, we come together to honor Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day. More than just a date on the calendar, this federal holiday is a time for reflection, education, and vibrant celebration of Black history, culture, and resilience.
We are incredibly fortunate to have a variety of events happening in our presbytery. Let us know about the celebrations your church community is participating in by sharing the details on our Facebook page or tagging Great Rivers in your post.
| Storm Damage and Other Disasters | | |
Tornado season in central Illinois can be scary. When there are storm warnings, please take time to secure all church property, including manses. If you have any damage to church property, please contact the Lead Presbyter, along with your church insurance carrier.
If you are a pastor and have damage to your personal property, we have the ability to reach out for emergency grants via the Board of Pensions. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance if you need it.
Natural disasters take a toll on our mental health in the immediate and longer-term. If you are a member of the Board of Pensions, there are specific resources available to you via the Spring Health program that manages mental healthcare, including free counseling sessions for you and/or your family as you cope with potential impacts and if you are called upon to be a responder. More resources here.
| | For pastoral leaders in a time of discernment about your ministry, check out the Clergy Program through the Davidson Centre, a four-day experience designed to offer a comprehensive personal and vocational assessment for clergy and church professionals from all faith traditions. It creates a supportive space to renew one’s commitment to their calling while exploring new possibilities during times of challenge, transition, sabbatical, or retirement. The Board of Pensions offers a grant that covers 100% of the tuition for clergy to attend. Grants are available for clergy whose salary is $88,875 or less, not including the value of the manse. More information here. | | |
Save the date: Monday, October 5 to Wednesday, October 7, 2026 - Cincinnati, Ohio
Our Second Annual PCGN Conference brings together leaders from across the PC(USA) who are committed to learning together how to lead churches toward faithful growth. We look forward to sharing the official conference announcement soon, including the theme and registration details.
Stay Connected
Email Updates - Join through the website or email pcgn.contact@gmail.com to be added to our list.
PCGN Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/pcgrowthnetwork
PCGN Website - https://www.pcgrowthnetwork.org
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Save the Date
Calling all middle school and high school students! Join us November 6-8, 2026, for a weekend full of outdoor activities, making new friends, fellowship by small and large groups, and lots and lots of fun at Stronghold Camp Retreat Center.
Watch this page for more details coming late summer, or contact Jeannette at Illinois Prairie Presbytery with questions.
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Dear Friend,
The Presbyterian Foundation’s Church Technology Grant program will assist Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) pastors and leaders serving churches or New Worshiping Communities. Funds are available for those pastoral leaders seeking to enhance their ministry through technology in a variety of ways:
- Upgrade existing technology or purchase new technology
- Upgrade a church website
- Online Training
Pastors with the greatest need serving congregations of color, small churches, new immigrant congregations, and congregations in economically challenged locales are invited to apply. Grants will be given to churches or presbyteries for release to the pastor for direct purchase or reimbursement for technology purchases and training. Those who received grant funds during the previous Technology Grant cycles are asked not to apply.
Visit presbyterianfoundation.org/tech-grant to apply for the grant. The application process will be open from May 20 to July 13, 2026. Applications will be reviewed after the closing date. We anticipate more applicants than available grants.
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Rev. Dr. David Loleng
Vice President
Church Financial Literacy & Leadership and
Stewardship Education
| | Good News from Great Rivers | | |
Good News is our twice-monthly e-newletter, published and delivered to your inbox on the second and fourth Friday of the month. It is one of the ways our presbytery keeps congregations informed by communicating relevant news and announcements, sharing upcoming events and trainings, and telling your stories.
We know great things are happening within your church community, so tell us! We welcome the news of your celebrations, announcements, events, and job opportunities. Send your news to Brandy Walters, the Communications and Administrative Assistant, by the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Email her at bwalters@greatriverspby.org with NEWSLETTER in the subject line.
| | PGR Regional Cohort Gatherings | | |
Let Brandy know when your cohort is meeting so she can update the regional gathering event page and the PGR calendar. If you have photos from your gatherings, we'd love to share them in our newsletter! Send meeting details and pictures to bwalters@greatriverspby.org.
| | Upcoming Boundary Trainings | | |
The Presbytery of Great Rivers requires all ministers, candidates, inquirers, honorably retired ministers, employees, and educators who are in any form of active service to participate annually in boundary training. Online training can be completed through:
Sponsored by the Synod of Lincoln Trails for all 8 presbyteries and provided at no cost.
Register Early!
Explore pastoral ministry and boundaries within communities of practice
Discover essential approaches to healthy ministry
The Presbytery of Chicago will provide in-person Boundary Trainings on
- Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 9 am-3 pm (CT), In-Person
@ Hope Presbyterian Church, 1771 S Wiesbrook Rd, Wheaton, IL
- Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 9 am-3 pm (CT), In-Person
@ Winnetka Presbyterian Church, 1255 Willow Road, Winnetka, IL
These workshops satisfy the denominational boundary training requirements in G-3.0106.
Submit certificates of completion for your boundary training to Stated Clerk Elissa Bailey.
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The 227th General Assembly is almost here—and if you’re wondering how to follow it all, what matters most, or where to begin, we’ve built something for you.
Introducing the Outlook’s Guide to GA227.
This free, digital guide brings clarity to a complex process. Inside, you’ll find:
· A clear overview of how General Assembly works
· Key issues and decisions to watch
· Thoughtful questions for you and your congregation

It’s designed to help you engage GA with confidence—whether you’re attending, leading, or simply paying attention.
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Also, you are invited to join a 90-minute webinar on June 17, 2026, at 7 pm EST. On-demand replay will be available after the live event for those who register.
Outlook editor Teri McDowell Ott will moderate a conversation with the candidates standing for moderator of the 227th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
This webinar offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the moderator candidates about their visions for the church’s future. For commissioners preparing for GA, this insight will be especially valuable as you discern your vote. For the broader public, this conversation will provide important context for what the next several years may hold for the denomination.
| | Conference Opportunities for Church Musicians | | |
The Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations (PMUN) will host a delegation of Presbyterian young adults (roughly ages 18-25) to attend the first week of the High-Level Political Forum (July 7-10, 2026) in New York City. Ideal applicants are college or graduate school students interested in international development, global ministries, and social justice. Our goal is to engage young people in social witness, develop future leaders, and inspire young adults to be agents of change. More information and the application can be found here.
If you are interested in participating in this year’s delegation, complete the application form by Tuesday, May 26th, 2026. Please share this widely with any young adults you may know. If you have any questions or would like any more information, please do not hesitate to contact PMUN’s Advocacy Associate, Clare Balsan, by email (clare.balsan@pcusa.org) or phone (502-612-6130).
| | Mid Council Financial Conference | |
Save the Date: November 18-20, 2026, Minneapolis, MN
Sponsored and organized by the Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program and the Presbyterian Foundation, this gathering of presbytery and synod financial staff, treasurers, finance committee members, and executives will be a time of learning from one another, sharing our best practices, and identifying emerging opportunities and challenges. Registration open soon.
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We give thanks to God for these faithful congregations and pastoral leaders:
- Knoxville, First United Presbyterian Church – served by Rev. Ken Shedenhelm
- Media, Community Presbyterian Church – moderated by Rev. Drew Nagle
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June Ordinations
June 1, 1959 – The Rev. Richard Watts, Retired
June 1, 1960 – The Rev. Eugene Bilotti, Retired
June 4, 2006 – The Rev. Marla Bauler, First Presbyterian Church, Elmwood,
and Faith United Presbyterian Church, Yates City
June 6, 1962 – The Rev. Donald Sinclair, Retired
June 6, 2014 – The Rev. Scott Carnes, First Presbyterian Church, Galesburg (UMC)
June 6, 1974 – The Rev. Gregory Meyer, Retired
June 7, 2009 – The Rev. J. Gray Marshall, Member at Large
June 10, 2012 – The Rev. John Huxtable
June 11, 2006 – The Rev. Dr. Andrew Gifford, St. Luke Union Church, Bloomington
June 13, 1971 – The Rev. Dale Bolton, Retired
June 13, 1990 – The Rev. Steve Smith (UMC), Farmingdale Presbyterian Church, Pleasant Plains
June 15, 1970 – The Rev. Randall Paine, Retired
June 17, 1979 – The Rev. Gary Elg, Retired
June 19, 2005 – The Rev. Ed Wegele, First Federated Church, Peoria
June 22, 2003 – The Rev. Julie Blythe, Retired
June 23, 2001 – The Rev. Debra Avery, United Presbyterian Church, Peoria
June 25, 1979 – The Rev. Brent Mitchell, Retired
June 27, 1971 – The Rev. Gerald Boutelle, Retired
June 27, 1993 – The Rev. Charlotte Poetschner, United Presbyterian Church, Mason City
June 28, 2009 – The Rev. Kathy Mitchell, Retired
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June 19 | Presbytery Closed Juneteenth
June 23 | 10:00 am | Commission on Congregational Life | Peoria UPC
June 22-July 2 | 227th General Assembly | Milwaukee, WI
June 24 | 1:00 pm | Ministry Coordination Group (CPL, CCL, COT co-mods) | Zoom
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Beware of Spam and Scam Emails
Privacy Alert: The Presbytery Directory, as well as
your church directory is for members only.
Please DO NOT share this information to protect everyone's privacy.
- It's always a good idea to check the email address before responding to requests.
- Grammatical errors and awkward phrasing often signal potential scams.
- Do not respond to emails that ask for money or favors.
- If something feels off, it probably is!
- No one on the Presbytery staff will ever send you a request asking for money or gift cards.
| | Presbytery of Great Rivers Staff | | |
Bridge Presbyter
John Rickard | 309-683-6983 | Email:jrickard@greatrivers.org
Stated Clerk
Elissa Bailey | 309-371-2511 | Email: pastorebailey@gmail.com
Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 7:30am - 3:00pm. If you have an emergency, please call or
text me at 309-371-2511.
Bookkeeper
Sabrina McGrath | 309-683-6981 | Email: smcgrath@greatriverspby.org
Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 8:00am - 3:00pm
Treasurer
Annette Simmons | Email: PGRTreasurer@greatriverspby.org
Communications and Administrative Assistant
Brandy Walters | 309-683-6980 | Email: bwalters@greatriverspby.org
Office hours: Monday and Wednesday, 9:00am - 3:00pm. Please leave her a message, and she will
return your call.
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Get Connected!
Encourage your congregations, sessions, and even your church newsletter editorial staff and volunteers to sign up for our presbytery newsletter and follow our Facebook page so you don't miss out on what is going on in our community of churches!
Be sure to Like us on Facebook
| | https://www.greatriverspby.org/ |   | |   | | | |
