November 15, 2023 | Volume IX, Number 46

Presbytery News and Information

Salem Presbytery Enters a New Era

Commissioners to the 140th Meeting of Salem Presbytery gathered at Alamance Presbyterian Church in Greensboro on Tuesday, the 14th for what would be a glorious and uplifting day of business and celebration. Beginning with worship led by Rev. Jess Rigel and Rev. Vicki McCain with a powerful sermon offered by Rev. Kyle Goodman, commissioners were encouraged to challenge the "ghosts" that inhabit all of our churches. The talented musicians from Alamance led us in engaging worship which included the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.

The usual business of the presbytery followed with highlights including the viewing of a video celebrating the ministry and legacy of African-American churches, especially Catawba Presbytery; the adoption of the 2024 presbytery budget presented by Ronda Tatum; and the reception of Joelle Brummitt-Yale as a Certified Christian Educator.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the report of the General Presbyter Search Committee and its recommendation of Elder Tony de la Rosa as our new General Presbyter. Tony shared his Faith Statement with the body before the unanimous vote took place! Tony will begin his work with us on January 1, 2024.

Many, many thanks to Kyle and Jess and the staff and volunteers from Alamance Presbyterian, for the generous hospitality, warm welcome, and delicious lunch!

Follow the links below for more info about the meeting.

The Seeds for Jubilee Foundation's "Oaks of Mamre" project resumes

and is receiving assistance applications now through December 24, 2023. This project's mission remains to help where help is not available to provide temporary bridge-funding so that longer term solutions can be accessed through other programs. For beneficiaries at risk of losing safe shelter and who are nominated by faith community leaders, this

short term assistance directly pays basic housing expenses (such as 1-2 month’s bills for rent/mortgage, electricity, heat, water and/or, by arranged purchase at a store in Greensboro, 1-2 weeks of groceries).

To learn more and find out how to apply for beneficiaries, faith leaders are encouraged to see the details at:

https://seedsforjubilee.org/projects-now-in-progress-or-under-consideration/

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

Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) is a coalition of more than 30 national Church communions and organizations working to encourage U.S. policies that actively promote just, lasting, and comprehensive resolutions to conflicts in the Middle East. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is an active participant in CMEP and Ron Shive is the North Carolina Regional Coordinator.

A briefing on current news regarding the

Hamas and Israel War

Please join us on Zoom for a weekly briefing on current news regarding the

Hamas and Israel War.

Hear from CMEP Staff and other experts.

Thursdays

10:00 am - 10:30 am Eastern

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.