|
From the Lead Presbyter
The Presbytery of St. Augustine met yesterday (Oct. 1, 2024). We were led in worship by a group of CRE’s (Commissioned Ruling Elders) and those training to become CREs. This affirmed our understanding of the priesthood of all believers and allowed us to witness firsthand the depth and variety of gifts of those God calls into ministry. It was a day that included moments for thoughtful, prayerful action including words shared by Zoughbi Zoughbi an international peacemaker from Palestine. Zoughbi provided depth to our understanding as he shared his personal experience. It also took place during lunch when Hunter Camp called our attention to the most recent bombings in Israel and led us in prayer.
The day also included a great deal of laughter and joy. It does my heart good to see Presbyterians gathered to handle some of the business, of the church, recognizing it is important work, but at the same time not taking ourselves too seriously. In one of the lighter moments, Vicki Bossuot, Bill Hoff and Robin Pyles did a skit that led into the disbursement of youth grants. Through the generosity of an anonymous donor the presbytery was equipped with resources to award the following grants for youth ministry:
Dunnellon $10,000
High Springs $10,000
Memorial $10,000
Lakewood $20,000
Palatka $20,000
Woodlawn $30,000
The grants are based on a survey that is sent out earlier in the year and guided by the wisdom of the youth team and the direction of the donor. Please be sure to fill out the survey in the coming years so that your church may be considered.
I highlighted a few important things during the speak-out time and want to ensure that all of our churches have that information as well. We have filled all our ARC (Area Relationship Coordinator) positions. The role of ARCs is to provide pastoral care to churches and pastors and to serve as a conduit to the Lead Presbyter. The newest edition will be highlighted in an upcoming edition of Staying Connected.
Finally, the month of October is Clergy Appreciation month. This was designated in 1992. A number of churches use the second Sunday of the month as a time to celebrate the gifts of their pastors. The expressions of thanksgiving can happen in a wide variety of ways. In some churches, people send cards with a handwritten note; some give gift cards; some provide an extra day off, a day of free childcare or a myriad of other ways. I encourage you to take the time and make the effort to express thanks for the ministry of clergy in tangible ways. I have found that encouragement is helpful in supporting long-term, effective ministry. I give thanks to God for the opportunity to serve alongside you.
Peace,
David
| 
