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Greetings Presbytery Family,
As we gather around tables laden with gratitude and warmth, may this Thanksgiving be a reminder of the blessings we share as a presbytery family. Wishing you all a joy-filled day of fellowship, thanksgiving and the abundant grace that binds us together. This edition of Staying Connected shares information about upcoming events taking place around the presbytery.
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News From Around the Presbytery | |
Happy Thanksgiving! Click here for a special message from our Lead Presbyter. | |
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Back Together Again
We're thrilled to announce "Back Together Again," a joyful return to a time of shared learning and fellowship among all members of the Presbytery of St. Augustine. Join us on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at the Montgomery Conference Center, for a day filled with opportunities to learn, connect and savor moments both old and new. The fee is $25, which includes a delicious lunch. Check-in starts at 8:15 a.m., followed by worship at 9:15 a.m., and the day concludes by 3:15 p.m. For those interested in spending Friday night at Montgomery, limited accommodations are available. Come join us for a day of learning, fellowship and renewed connections – we can't wait to see you!
Click here to register.
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Clergy & Teaching Elders' Publications and Books
Have you ever been curious about the texts written by members of our presbytery? Looking for additional resources? Click here for a list of publications and books written by our clergy and teaching elders.
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Prayer Corner
Please pray for the Lord to guide the following church (its staff and session) this week:
Branford Presbyterian Church
Pastor, Rhonda Link-Cummings
Clerk, Patti Phillips
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News From Montgomery Center | |
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Christmas Under the Oaks
The Third Annual Gala: Christmas Under the Oaks will take place, at Montgomery Center, on December 2. Enjoy an evening of decadence at Montgomery Center as they celebrate God's provision throughout the year and support the upcoming year's programming. Learn more about the event and register here.
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NEW Training Program: What is (WHO is) a CRE?
A Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE) in the Presbyterian Church (USA) is a congregationally based ruling elder who has demonstrated skill for church leadership and has successfully completed CRE training. The role of the CRE is an expansion of the office and work of the ruling elder. The Book of Order states that “commissioning ruling elders to limited pastoral service” is a way that a presbytery nurtures the covenant community of disciples of Christ (G-2.1001).
The Presbytery of St. Augustine is launching a new CRE training program in 2024! If you feel called to be better equipped to serve beyond your home congregation, or if you know someone who might have interest, please plan to attend an Inquiry Session, Saturday, February 3, 2024, immediately following the Winter Presbytery meeting at Montgomery Camp and Conference Center. An overview of the program will be provided along with time for Q&A.
If you have any questions, please email Jerie Lukefahr or Cliff Lydada.
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Advent Resources
Looking for Advent resources? Click here to learn more about the resources by Liturgical Lessons.
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Association of Smaller Congregations Conference
The Association of Smaller Congregations (ASC) Conference: The Gift of Small promotes smaller congregations and highlights their unique beauty and immense potential. Despite their size these close-knit communities can nurture deep relationships and create a profound sense of belonging. In a world that claims that “bigger is always better,” smaller congregations know that passion and love define faith, not size. Smaller congregations can cultivate unity, and shared purpose, and become beacons of hope. Join the ASC at Epworth-by-the-Sea on February 29 through March 4, to celebrate The Gift of Small as we explore the powerful impact smaller congregations can and do have on the lives of individuals and communities. Learn more here.
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PC(USA) Matthew 25 Summit
What does it mean to eradicate poverty; how can we begin dismantling systemic racism; how will we know if we are building a vital congregation? PC(USA) is offering an invitation to innovation and a chance to dialogue, learn with and grow with others in exploration at this first-of-its-kind event! The Matthew 25 Summit will feature innovative speakers, thriving ministries, transformative workshops and space to imagine what’s next! The summit takes place in Atlanta on January 16 through 18. Learn more and register here.
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Save the Date - Winter Gathering
Save the Date for the Presbyterian Women Winter Gathering on January 27, 2024, at Montgomery Center. The keynote speaker will be Olive Mahabir, author of our current Bible study. More details to come!
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Presbyterian Women Justice and Peace Calendar for November
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Key Events
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November 23 – Thanksgiving (POSA Office Closed)
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December 2 – 3rd Annual Gala: Christmas Under the Oaks at Montgomery Center
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December 13 – POSA Holiday Open House, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
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December 22 – POSA Office Closed (in observance of Christmas Eve)
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December 24 – Christmas Eve
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December 25 – Christmas Day (POSA Office Closed)
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January 16-18, 2024 – PC(USA) Matthew 25 Summit, Atlanta
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January 20, 2024 – Back Together Again Officer Training at Montgomery Center
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January 24-27, 2024 – Come All Who are Thirsty APCE Annual Event in St. Louis, Mo.
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January 27, 2024 – Presbyterian Women Winter Gathering at Montgomery Center
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February 3, 2024 – Winter Stated Meeting at Montgomery Center
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February 3, 2024 – CRE Training Program
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February 29 through March 3, 2024 – ASC Conference, Epworth-by-the-Sea
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March 1-3, 2024 – Montgomery Youth Retreat
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Positions Available In Our Presbytery
Check out the many ministry opportunities throughout our presbytery here.
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Blessings,
Susan Rose, Moderator of the Presbytery
Charlie Evans, Stated Clerk
David Rollins, Lead Presbyter
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Previous Staying Connected emails are available on our website.
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