Continuing this year’s theme of "Love thy Neighbor" the August 11 Gathering focused on loving and honoring your neighbor in even the simplest ways - holding the door open for a stranger, taking an elderly relative to a doctor's appointment, or a quick phone call to a member of the church who has been absent for several Sundays. Moderator RE Sue Moran shared a story about a time she felt God was telling her to show a stranger kindness and how meaningful it was for her to extend the kindness and for the "neighbor" to receive it. Sue then encouraged everyone over the next few months to be mindful of God's call of loving your neighbor.

Attendance -62: 18 Teaching Elders; 2 Commissioned Ruling Elders; 18 Ruling Elder Commissioners; 5 RE Enrolled as Members; 6 Corresponding Members; and 13 Guests.


The gathering began with worship in the newly renovated sanctuary, where everyone enjoyed the charm of the fresh space, the warmth of friendly faces, and the beautiful harmonies of the Canfield Choir. TE Larry Bowald delivered the message, RE Aidan Boywer read scripture, and TE Alice Phillips along with Retired CRE Judi Bender led communion.


After worship, the presbytery moved to the fellowship hall where the deacons and church members provided and served a delicious meal, reminding us of the value of generosity, kindness, and the joy of friendships—both new and long-standing.


The presbytery re-gathered in the sanctuary for the business portion of the evening. Moderator, RE Sue Moran, installed the Vice Moderator, TE Adam Rodgers, after which he welcomed first time RE commissioners and guests and seated corresponding members. TE Barry Chance delivered the General Presbyter & Stated Clerk report, highlighting our gratitude for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) who provided a Church Damage Grant that will help two of our churches recover from damage sustained in the tornado and microburst in early July. These grants are an expression of our connectional church and are made possible through gifts given to One Great Hour of Sharing or PDA. Reporting on the 227th General Assembly, Young Adult Advisory Delegate, Aidan Bowyer shared his reflections on attending the General Assembly and serving on the General Assembly Operations Committee. During the Treasurer and Administrative Committee Report, it was reported that the committee had received the 2025 Financial Review and met with the independent auditor. The presbytery voted to receive the 2025 Financial Review. A taskforce created by presbytery Council will host four "listening sessions" focusing on presbytery partnerships. Two will be held in person on September 23 at Poland Presbyterian Church and on September 30 at United Presbyterian Church both at 10:00 a.m. Two sessions will be held online at 7:00 p.m. on those same days. Committee on Ministry announced TE Sue Roseman, First Hudson, has retired and invited a member of the church's session to share a few words about her ministry and retirement. Sue Moran led the prayer of thanksgiving for Rev. Roseman's ministry. The COM moderator then moved and the presbytery voted to approve the 2027 Minimum Compensation Standards, which include a 4% increase in Total Cost of the Church to reflect the impact of Board of Pensions dues increases and inflation. Committee on Preparation for Ministry introduced two inquirers, RE Aidan Bowyer (New Lisbon) and CRE David Paulik (Kinsman). The CPM moderator moved and the presbytery voted to enroll both inquirers under the care of Eastminster Presbytery and prayers were offered. The Resource Committee reported that mission service opportunities continue this year. In September a group of approximately 18 will head to Cass Community Social Services in Detroit. Participants are still welcome to join the group, and anyone interested should attend the meet and greet on August 16 at 4:00 p.m. at Canfield Presbyterian Church. In October, there will be a local mission day of service at the Warren Family Mission to help prepare for their annual coat drive. Also reporting at tonight's meeting were Ruth-Aimee Belonni-Rosario, The Synod of the Covenant Associate Executive for Racial Justice; Linda Sharp, Relationship Manager at Presbyterian Investment & Loan Program, and Luke Choi, Church Consultant for the Board of Pensions. The meeting concluded with Sue Moran reminding everyone of God's commandment to Love One Another, charged the presbytery to take the time to offer acts of kindness or good deeds until we meet again, and closed in prayer.

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The Presbytery Offering was designated to support storm relief in Mahoning County.

We will continue to accept offering donations until August 31 through the Presbytery Payment Portal  (scroll to the Presbytery Meeting Offering graphic) OR Treasurers can send a check to Eastminster Presbytery / PO Box 14439 / Poland, OH 44514. Indicate "August 11 offering" or "Mahoning County Storm Damage" in the memo line.

The next Sated Gathering of Eastminster Presbytery is

Saturday, November 14 at the Well CDC (former site of First Presbyterian Church) in Akron starting at 3:00 p.m.