March 27, 2024

Hosanna!


As the Holy Week unfolds before us, may the sacred journey of Christ's passion and resurrection ignite within us a renewed sense of faith, hope and profound gratitude, uniting us as a presbytery community in reflection, reverence and rejoicing. This edition of Staying Connected shares news about upcoming events and other important updates from around the presbytery.

Clergy Cluster Lunches

All clergy are invited to join the Lead Presbyter for a time of fellowship in April. Please see the dates, times and locations below. You are welcome to attend any of them that fit your schedule.


April 8 at noon -- Harry's | 110 SE 1st St. Gainesville, FL

April 17 at noon -- Metro Diner | 1000 S. Ponce De Leon Blvd. St. Augustine, FL

April 18 at noon -- True Food Kitchen | 5205 Big Island Dr. Jacksonville, FL

April 24 at 11:30 a.m. -- Cheddar's | 4065 SW College Rd. Ocala, FL

News From Around the Presbytery

Holy Week Updates

What unique and exciting things is your church doing for the Holy Week? We'd love to see and share with the presbytery. Send your photos to [email protected].

Directory Updates

Help us keep our directory up to date! If you or your church has had any changes, please send those changes to [email protected] so that we can update information in the directory.


Examples of changes may be, but are not limited to: email addresses, phone numbers, mailing address changes, worship service times, church office hours, staff changes, etc.

Updates from the Lead Presbyter

The Lead Presbyter will be out of office April 9 and 10, to enjoy some time at the Masters Tournament.


ICARE

In light of our shared concern for the pervasive issue of gun violence in our community, Joe Medearis invites you to the 2024 ICARE (Interfaith Coalition for Action, Reconciliation, and Empowerment) Nehemiah Assembly. This event is scheduled for April 15, at 6:45 p.m. at Abyssinia Missionary Baptist Church (10325 Interstate Center Dr. Jacksonville, FL 32218)


This assembly is a gathering aimed at uniting community leaders, citizens and elected officials to take a stand against gun violence and to explore effective strategies for making our community safer for everyone. It represents a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the impactful work ICARE is undertaking to address this critical issue. All are invited to attend and are welcome to extend this invitation to anyone who would benefit from engaging with the work ICARE is doing.

First Wednesday Sack Lunch

Join the Synod of South Atlantic for their First Wednesday Sack Lunch via Zoom on April 3, from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. The topic for April is Youth Ministry. Click here to register.

Prayer Corner

Please pray for the Lord to guide the following church (its staff and session) this week:

Grace Presbyterian Church


Leadership

Don Mossa

Faye Tripp

Resources

One Great Hour of Sharing

One Great Hour of Sharing is the single, largest way that Presbyterians come together every year to work for a better world. This year we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of this Offering, which started with a radio show in 1949. Typically received on Easter Sunday, which this year falls on March 31, the annual Offering supports Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, the Presbyterian Hunger Program and Self-Development of People. All three programs work to serve individuals and communities in need to provide people with safety, sustenance and hope. Find resources here


Click here to read more about how this offering impacts others!.

Matthew 25

Matthew 25 Continued Conversations: Vital Conversations

Join ministry leaders for support, explore the seven marks of Vital Congregations and share questions, ideas, challenges and resources. These conversations will take place April 3 and 17 from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. Register Here

Matthew 25 Continued Conversations: Eradicating Systemic Poverty

Join ministry leaders for support and share ideas, dreams, challenges and resources. These conversations will take place each Thursday during the month of April from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Register Here

Presbyterian Women

Gift Card Collection

Presbyterian Women will be receiving a gift card offering at the Gathering in St. Louis. If you would like to contribute to this offering, please mail Lowe's, Target, Walmart or Amazon gift cards, with at least $10 or more on each card, to Nancy Carlton, PW Moderator. The gift cards will be given to Bethel Hills and Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services.


Nancy Carlton

2511 Sam Rd.

Jacksonville, FL 32216

Save the Date

Save the date for the Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women, in St. Louis, Mo., on August 8. This year's theme is, "Do everything in love."

Women's History Month

The 2024 theme for Women's History Month is Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. "The theme recognizes women throughout the country who understand that, for a positive future, we need to eliminate bias and discrimination entirely from our lives and institutions. Today, equity, diversity and inclusion are powerful driving forces that are having a wide-ranging impact on our country."


Watch the video to learn more about Presbyterian Women!

News From Montgomery Center

Upcoming Events at Montgomery Center

Camp Pastors Needed

Do you have a heart to reach young lives? Camp Montgomery is accepting applications to serve as Camp Pastor for a week of camp. This is a vital role in our camp ministry, ensuring a high quality, Christian camping experience. Camp Pastors provide leadership in the areas of Bible study, worship and spiritual growth. They start campers on their day by introducing the daily scripture and theme.


There is a need for a Camp Pastor June 23 through 28, and July 14 through 19. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Easter Respite

Find respite after the busy season of Lent and lean into the peace that passes understanding after the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Montgomery will host a time of Easter Respite April 1 through 4, with free lodging for pastors, Christian educators, music directors and other church leaders. You are welcome to stay for one day or as many as needed. Click here for more information and to reserve your spot.

Family Fun Day

Save the date for Family Fun Day, at Montgomery Center, on June 1. Swimming and archery will be available from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. for guests, and camp tours will be available at 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. This is a FREE event.

Summer Camp

Registration is open now for Summer Camp 2024.

For information about 2024 Summer Camps, click here

Key Events

Positions Available In Our Presbytery

Check out the many ministry opportunities throughout our presbytery here.

Blessings,

Steve Crowley, Moderator of the Presbytery

Charlie Evans, Stated Clerk

David Rollins, Lead Presbyter

Previous Staying Connected emails are available on our website.