Welcome to this week's edition of our e-letter, Presbytery Matters. | | | |
All Welcome to the Lenten Table
What do ketchup, dental floss and diapers have in common? They’re some of the many items Marcellus First Presbyterian Church members brought to the table, so to speak, for the Samaritan Center as part of its Lenten collection.
Donations included clothing for adults (81 pairs of socks, two shirts and three packages of men’s underwear). Winning the prize for most number in the food category: 12 packages of ramen noodles.
There were enough personal hygiene products to stock a convenience store: 34 sticks of deodorant, nine packages of dental floss, 44 tubes of toothpaste, 25 toothbrushes, 78 razors, nine bottles of shampoo/conditioner and a tube of anti-itch cream.
Babies, too, were covered with 54 packages of diapers and a tube of Desitin ointment. In the paper category, 49 rolls of toilet paper, 23 packages of Wet Wipes and eight packages of tissues were donated.
And, that’s not the complete list.
“Our members not only ransack their own cupboards for food, clothing and personal care items to donate, but also purchase additional things so that those served by the Samaritan Center don’t have to go without,” said Sue Wegman, chair of the church’s Mission Interpretation Committee which spearheaded the collection.
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We want to hear about the mission stories from our Presbytery's worshiping communities. What mission work are you involved in? How are your members working in the community? What story would you like to share with others in the Presbytery?
Send any mission stories from your congregation that you would like to share to: CaySyrNews@gmail.com.
Deadline is 12 p.m. on Wednesdays for the current week's edition of
Presbytery Matters.
We want to share your stories, missions, activities and more. Also, make sure to like our Facebook page by clicking the "Facebook" icon at the top of this newsletter.
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We are asking our churches to share this newsletter with your members each week. Click the button below to forward the email or to obtain the newsletter link.
Thank you!
| | Joys and Concerns around the Presbytery | | |
In our prayers together this week:
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Please pray for all who struggle on Mother’s Day — for those who have lost their mothers, for mothers who have lost children, for those longing to be mothers and for anyone carrying grief, loneliness or difficult memories during this season. May they feel God’s comfort, peace, and love surrounding them.
- Please pray for Doug Russell, of Baldwinsville Presbyterian Church, in your prayers as he battles cancer. Pray for strength, healing, and peace for Doug and his loved ones during this difficult time.
- Please pray Jerry Armstrong (Whitelaw Presbyterian) Jerry is 15 years old with recurrent bone cancer that has spread to his esophagus. Please continue to pray more than ever for both Jerry and his family. Cards can be sent to Jerry Armstrong at PO Box 414 Wampsville, NY 13163.
- Prayers for peace for the people and country of South Korea.
- Pray for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
- The voiceless.
- All those who have been separated from their families.
- All those in America.
- Our brothers & sisters in Haiti.
- All those in Cuba.
- All those in Sudan.
- All those in Ukraine.
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All those in Lebanon.
- All those in Israel and Gaza.
- All displaced people.
- All those who are homebound.
- All those who battling addiction and their loved ones.
- Keep all those who battling cancer and other chronic illnesses in your prayers. Please ask God to be by their side and to be with their doctors and families.
- Please pray for all those who are dealing with the painful grief of losing a beloved family pet.
In the cycle of prayer our Presbytery, please pray for these congregations, faith communities, and individuals: First, Cazenovia; First, Chittenango; United Church of Collamer; Pebble Hill, DeWitt; First United Church of East Syracuse
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You're Invited To Join Us May 16 for a
Joint Gathering of Our Presbyteries
| Please join us — registrations appreciated, but your presence is by far the most important part of our gathering! | |
Members and friends of the Presbyteries of Cayuga-Syracuse and Susquehanna Valley are warmly invited to a joint gathering on Saturday, May 16, at First Presbyterian Church of Cazenovia. This special event is designed as a time of fellowship, conversation and learning as we come together across our presbyteries.
The gathering will run from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with doors opening at 10:30 a.m. for registration and informal conversation. All members of both presbyteries are encouraged to attend -- come one, come all!
The day will offer opportunities to build new friendships, learn more about one another’s ministries and share ideas and questions about the life of our presbyteries. Participants will also hear about the recent merger between the Lehigh and Lackawanna Presbyteries, offering insight and perspective that may help inform conversations within our own region.
This gathering is sponsored by the Focus & Coordination Team, and lunch will be provided.
To help us plan for lunch, please RSVP by emailing Lorrie Cooney at ljcooney1@gmail.com and include your name and the church you are affiliated with.
Your presence and voice are important. We hope you will join us for this meaningful time of connection and shared conversation.
Church Address: First Presbyterian Church of Cazenovia 27 Albany Street (Route 20) Cazenovia, NY 13035
Parking:
- Parking attendants will be on site to guide you to available spaces.
- Accessible and mobility‑friendly parking is located directly behind the church.
Additional Parking Locations:
- Wendell House (Cazenovia College) – 3 Sullivan Street
- Risman Hall – Cazenovia College campus area
- Public parking lot behind Community Bank off Route 20
- Street parking along Albany Street and nearby side streets
Please allow a few extra minutes for parking and walking, especially if you plan to use one of the satellite lots. We’re grateful for your flexibility and look forward to a meaningful day together.
Attention Churches: Download bulletin to invite your members.
Word Document
PDF
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Greetings from your friendly neighborhood Stated Clerk,
We have updated our Church Information Form and made it digital to make the process easier for everyone.
Please click the link below, complete your church’s information, and submit the form.
Church Information Form
Once submitted, it will be automatically sent to the Stated Clerk’s office.
A Microsoft Form version is currently under development but is not yet ready for publication.
Please complete this form as soon as possible. This will become an annual process moving forward.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at statedclerk@cayugasyracuse.org.
If you or your church do not have access to the digital form or the necessary technology --or if you know of a congregation that does not -- please let me know. I will gladly provide a physical copy of the form.
Thank you all for your cooperation. I truly appreciate it.
Rev. Ben Fitzgerald-Fye
Stated Clerk
Presbytery of Cayuga-Syracuse
| From the Focus & Coordination Team | |
Got Church Trivia? We Want It!
Help Make Our “Get to Know Our Presbyteries” Trivia Game a Success
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At our May 16 Presbytery Gathering, we’re setting aside time for connection and relationship-building with a fun “Get to Know Our Presbyteries” Trivia Game and we need your help to make it great!
We’re looking for fun, unique, and little-known facts about your church or presbytery. These could be interesting historical details from your archives, memorable stories, amusing anecdotes, or present-day trivia that others might not know.
We’ve already gathered a few great stories and are excited to share them, but we need more trivia to make the game a success!
Take a few minutes to gather your church’s hidden gems and surprising facts and send them in.
Submit your trivia to: Lorrie Cooney at ljcooney1@gmail.com
If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can’t wait to see what stories you share!
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Spotlight on First Presbyterian Church of Auburn from the Assistant to the Lead Presbyter, the Rev. Mary Anderson
A Legacy of Faith, Resilience and Community Mission
First Presbyterian Church of Auburn has lived many lives in its more than 200‑year history, each chapter marked by faithful innovation and deep commitment to the community.
The congregation’s story begins in 1817, when its first church stood at Franklin and North Streets—the site where the Auburn Declaration of 1837 was signed. As the congregation grew, the building was moved and rebuilt in 1869 as Calvary Presbyterian Church, where its distinctive Corinthian architectural details and evolving sanctuary reflected generations of worship and care.
A turning point came in 1973, when the steeple of the historic limestone church collapsed. Though the organist miraculously survived, the building could not be saved. The congregation relocated to land offered by the Carmelite Fathers next to the Case Mansion, and the new church was completed in 1975.
The church’s mission expanded dramatically when volunteers caring for disabled veterans in the Case Mansion faced losing their home. First Presbyterian stepped in, purchasing the mansion and helping establish what became Unity House, a ministry that grew to serve more than 700 clients a day across several counties.
Today, the church continues this legacy of hospitality and service through the Presbyterian Event & Retreat Center (PERC), approved in 2016. Like Montreat or Stony Point, the PERC offers space for spiritual renewal, community building, and creative ministry—extending the congregation’s long tradition of responding faithfully to the needs of its neighbors.
From its earliest days to its present ministries, First Presbyterian Church of Auburn stands as a testament to resilience, generosity, and a mission shaped by the Holy Spirit.
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The Social Justice Committee invites you to a tour of Salt City Harvest Farm on Friday, May 8 at 11:00 a.m. The farm is located on 449 Fyler Road in Kirkville 13082.
Salt City Harvest Farm grows food, culture, and community alongside the New American Community through the cross-cultural exchange of food traditions with access to farmland, education, and economic opportunities. New Americans grow crops that are native to their homelands, and the farm also sells these highly desired foods at the regional market. Consider exploring Salt City Harvest Farm’s website for more information.
| For more information on Presbyterian Women, contact Rita Hooper at twohoops2@gmail.com or 315-705-3564 | |
2026 Meetings for PW Leaders and Treasurers
Moderators and treasurers (or leaders fulfilling duties associated with these positions) who serve PW in the congregation, presbytery and/or synod are invited to join Zoom-based meetings for PW leaders (including sessions that are specific to treasurers). In addition to learning about new resources and best practices for PW ministries, it will be a time to ask questions, share ideas and connect with other PW leaders.
Leaders are invited to participate in the call that is most convenient. Presbytery leaders may want to check in with synod moderators to coordinate joining a call together.
There are three PW leadership calls -- April 30, May 20, or May 21. Each will be held at 4 p.m. Eastern time. Click here to register for a leadership meeting.
There are two treasurer meetings -- April 29 or May 19. Both will be held at 4 p.m. Eastern time. Click here to register for a treasurer meeting.
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2026–2027 PW/Horizons Bible study
Horizons magazine subscribers have received the 2026–2027 PW/Horizons Bible study, United Through Christ, Bound to Each Other: Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians by Rhonda Mawhood Lee, and new or recently renewed subscribers will soon receive their copy.
Additional copies of the Bible study and supplemental resources are now available for order too!
Not a Horizons subscriber? Now is the time to sign up! If you subscribe or renew by June 1, 2026, you will receive a copy of United Through Christ as part of your subscription. (Be sure to select the print subscription, which also includes digital access to Horizons magazine!) Extra Bible study support resources for United Through Christ begin with the Summer 2026 issue of the magazine. Visit presbyterianwomen.org/subscribe or call 866/802-3635.
The Bible study is also available to order (independent of a Horizons subscription) from the PW Shop.
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The Collamer United Church is very pleased to announce that it will present a public
Drive-Thru Only
Chicken & Biscuit Dinner
On Saturday, May 9, 2026
Serving will be from 4:30 p.m. through approximately 6 p.m.
The church is located at 6865 Fly Road in Collamer (East Syracuse), just South of the intersection of Fly Road and Route 298 (about 2 miles East of Carrier Circle, or take Exit 7 off from Route 481).
This delicious chicken dinner will include homemade biscuits, mashed potatoes and gravy, fresh cooked vegetables, and dessert.
Collamer Church is well-known for its great cooks!
Tickets may be purchased at the door.
$15 for ALL adults
$6 for children under 10
(We apologize but we cannot accept credit cards)
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LaFayette Columbian Presbyterian Church
Corner of Route 11 And Route 20, LaFayette
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Steeple Coffee House presents Dave Novak and the PartyNuts
Dave Novak and the PartyNuts formed in 1978 (as Novak’s Assorted PartyNuts). Original members Dave Novak, John Dancks, and Mike Kallet were joined by Ed McBarron (in 1989), JT Hall (1995), and Don Williams (2014).
From Elvis, Buddy Holly, and Johnny Cash to Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, the Beatles, and Motown, the Dave Novak and the PartyNuts 6-piece ensemble will provide great tunes and a great time. They are all unapologetically NUTS!
Dave Novak plays guitar and vocals. He formed his first band, the CAZCATS, in 1961 with John Dancks. Dave also plays with the FABCATS, MONTERAYS, and the DAVE NOVAK 5. He was inducted into the SAMMY Hall of Fame in 2008.
John Dancks, the most in-demand bassist in the area, plays with various local bands, including The CADLEYS, QUATRO, and DEAD to the CORE. JD was inducted into the SAMMY Hall of Fame in 2013. Mike Kallet plays keyboards, guitar, and vocals. He’s also a member of the FABCATS. Ed McBarron, the band’s drummer and vocalist, also keeps time with the LIUZZO BAND. JT Hall leads his own original jazz group, the JT HALL JAZZ CONSORT, and has been a stalwart of the local music scene for nearly as long as Novak. Don Williams, a virtuoso saxophonist and flutist, plays with the CNY SONGBIRDS and BLUE AVENUE.
It promises to be a fabulous night of music!
Where: Steeple Coffee House is in the United Church of Fayetteville at 310 E. Genesee St. in Fayetteville, NY. The venue is Accessible. Plenty of free parking behind the church with entries from E. Genesee St., Chapel St., and Walnut St.
When: Saturday, May 23rd - Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and runs until 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Suggested donation is $15-20 (cash) includes refreshments
| | Instead of Chicken BBQs, have you ever tried Turkey BBQ? It's delicious. | | Save the Date: Presbyteries learning event in Geneva | | |
Mandatory New York State Sexual Harassment Prevention Training Webinars
You can take this training any time during the year
This training is 90 minutes
charlaine@prcli.org
Anti-Harassment & Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
Leader - Patti Berner
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Thursday, Jun 4, 2026
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
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How to contact our Lead Presbyter, the Rev. Greg Garis
Email: leadpresbyter@cayugasyracuse.org
How to contact our Assistant to the Lead Presbyter, the Rev. Mary Anderson
Email: asst.presbyter@gmail.com
How to contact our Stated Clerk, the Rev Ben Fitzgerald-Fye
Office Phone: 315-291-0360 (call or text)
Email: statedclerk@cayugasyracuse.org
Mail received at:
Scipioville Presbyterian Church
Attn: Pastor Ben
3428 State Route 34B
Scipio Center NY 13147
How to contact our Bookkeeper, Kristin Schierer
Email: finance@cayugasyracuse.org
More information is linked below:
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Our Address: PO Box 438, Syracuse, NY 13214
Click Here for Staff Contact Information
Click Here for a list of Live Streams from our churches
Click Here for a list of Past Editions of Presbytery Matters
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Now Hiring: Church Ministry Assistant
First Presbyterian Church of Skaneateles is seeking a Church Ministry Assistant who will play a key role in supporting the life and mission of the church through both administrative leadership and ministry coordination. This position oversees daily office operations, manages communications and scheduling, and provides essential support to pastors, staff, and volunteers.
In addition, the role partners closely with the Christian Education Committee to plan and lead children’s programs and support broader educational ministries. This individual helps create a welcoming, organized, and spiritually nurturing environment for the congregation while ensuring ministries run smoothly and effectively.
All interested parties should email their resume and cover letter to Pastor Mike at revhill@skanpresby.org by May 15th.
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Are you hiring?
If your church is hiring, please send an announcement and job description to Communication Coordinator Sarah Buckshot at caysyrnews@gmail.com
Please Note: Hiring announcements will run in Presbytery Matters for 3 weeks. If the position remains open after 3 weeks, please resubmit.
Thank you, Sarah Buckshot, Communications Coordinator.
| | Around the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) | | |
Seeking help in the US Senate to pass a long-overdue Farm Bill
The Office of Public Witness asks Presbyterians to make their voices heard on re-authorizing food assistance programs
Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 (H.R. 7567) by a vote of 224–200, advancing a five-year reauthorization of federal agriculture, nutrition and conservation policy.
While movement on a long-overdue Farm Bill is important, the House-passed legislation raises serious moral concerns. It locks in deep cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) — our nation’s most effective anti-hunger program —while failing to restore support for families already struggling with rising food costs.
As people of faith committed to ending hunger and caring for God’s creation, we must speak clearly: a Farm Bill that weakens nutrition assistance is not a faithful Farm Bill.
The Farm Bill has long reflected a sacred covenant linking farmers, eaters and communities through shared commitments to food security, environmental stewardship, and economic well-being. When nutrition programs, conservation efforts and farm supports work together, they strengthen both rural and urban economies.
SNAP is central to that system. Every dollar invested in food assistance supports local businesses, stabilizes farm income and strengthens communities. When these supports are weakened, families struggle, farmers lose markets and the entire food system is put at risk.
Continue reading...
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A gospel lesson for any occasion —
even a memorial service
Relying on the first 14 verses in John 14, the Rev. Dr. John Wilkinson leads last week’s Chapel Service
The Rev. Dr. John Wilkinson, director of Stewardship and Funds Development in the Administrative Services Group, estimates that over 33 years of congregational ministry, he’s led 250 memorial services and a handful of funerals. About half those services included a reading from John 14:1-14, an early portion of Jesus’ Farewell Discourse and a lectionary reading for May 3.
Jesus tells his disciples his Father’s house has many dwelling places, and “if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.”
He also tells them that he’s the way, the truth and the life, and that “no one comes to the Father except through me.” Some see that as a vehicle for Christo-exclusivism, but “all of that is for another day,” Wilkinson told those worshiping online at the weekly Chapel Service.
Working for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is different at the congregational or mid council level than at the national level, Wilkinson said. “Congregational and pastoral care is baked into the DNA of the community” at the local and regional levels, he noted.
Continue reading...
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P.O. Box 438, Syracuse 13214
(315) 632-5698
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"I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them
bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
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