January 20, 2022
At the request of the Steering Cabinet, the Presbytery Moderator, Sue Lowcock Harris, has called a special meeting of Presbytery on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 10 am via Zoom for the purpose of acting on the following matters related to the 225th General Assembly:

  • Consider concurring with an Overture from Giddings-Lovejoy Presbytery (the overture is posted with the meeting papers)
  • Elect an alternate Ruling Elder Commissioner to the 225th GA. RE : E. Joshua Gilhart, from Cumberland PC has been nominated for this position
  • Elect an overture advocate for the overture approved at the October Gathering
  • Any matters directly related to these items or other items related to General Assembly that are time sensitive

Immediately following the meeting there will be a breakout session led by the strategic planning team to share information about the strategic planning process. Visit our website for forthcoming documents, updates and registration.
The next stated meeting,
the 984th Gathering of Presbytery
is scheduled for Thursday, March 10, at 10 am via Zoom.
ICMY: Spoken Words and Bible Studies
For those who missed it, video recordings are now available online for our most popular recent events:
Monday’s 3rd annual spoken word contest, organized by the In The Loop ministry group celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. More
The inaugural “You don't have to plan this one” Bible Study features “Fresh Takes on Luke and Acts” with New Testament Professor, Dr. Greg Carey. More
Congratulations Intersection of Change
It was just announced that the Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People (SDOP) has awarded Baltimore’s Intersection of Change generous funding to offset challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Intersection of Change is dedicated to providing programs that enrich the economic, social, and spiritual lives of those dealing with poverty-related issues in the city's Sandtown-Winchester, Upton, and surrounding communities.

These funds will help in continuing the direct services of their Strength to Love II workforce development program and farm, which offers employment to returning citizens, workforce development for youth, and food security. So much of the work that they do is contingent on person-to-person contact and having PPE equipment that is accessible to staff and volunteers is essential to avoid shutdowns and closure.

The non-profit’s success is due in no small part to Rev. Dr. Karen Brown’s 10 years of service as their Workforce Program Manager. Baltimore is blessed to have such a committed partnership in our midst.
Special Notice to Clerks of Session
The deadline for the submission of statistical reports is February 10. There is a brief video tutorial and additional information on the reporting program posted on the Clerks Resource Page on the Presbytery website.
The Ruth Gosnell Education Fund
Need an interest-free loan for the 2022-2023 academic year to complete your college Junior, Senior or Graduate School studies? The Ruth Gosnell Education Fund, directed by the Springfield Presbyterian Church, provides interest-free loans for those full-time student categories. Regardless of religion, all applicants will receive impartial consideration; and repayment of the loan does not start until 6 months after graduation. Loan applications will be evaluated on academic performance, financial need, and a short essay. Download the RGEF Form A, “Ruth Gosnell Education Fund Loan Application” at www.springfield-church.org, or call SPC at 410-795-6152. Completed applications must be received by March 1, 2022. E-mailed applications are acceptable (spc.office@verizon.net).
Upcoming Events
The Time for Environmental Action is Now
With Maryland’s General Assembly in session, interest in the Environmental Human Rights Amendment has never been greater. Advocates have planned a number of events to capitalize on the momentum and extend opportunities for each and every person and organization to become involved. Please consider joining any of the following online events to learn more and support this vital legislation.
Wednesday, January 26th at 7 pm (via Zoom): Towson Presbyterian Church is holding an Information Forum about the Maryland Environmental Human Rights Amendment. Join Parish Associate Rev. Mary and MEHRA advocate Robbine Gray, who will provide an overview of the amendment and how you can support the legislation.
Sunday, January 30th at 2 pm: Speaking Out Faithfully for Our Common Home: Online Maryland Legislative Briefing. We have a powerful opportunity to speak out for our neighbors and our common home in Annapolis in the 2022 legislative session. Join Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake, Interfaith Power & Light (MD.DC.NoVA), Maryland Campaign for Environmental Human Rights, and the Earth Forum of Howard County to prepare your congregation for 2022. Register here
Monday, February 7th: Virtual Lobby Night – Maryland Sierra Club invites us to join them and others from across the state in raising our voices for these three bills as participants in their online lobby night, on Monday evening, February 7th (training beforehand on Thursday evening, February 3rd.) Meet virtually with your state legislators. We are asking everyone to join the kickoff event so they are prepared for their meetings on Monday, February 7th. Note that some meetings may happen after February 7th. The kickoff and lobby meetings will be virtual.
“You don’t have to plan this one” Bible study continues every second and fourth Monday though March. The topic will be “Fresh Takes on Luke and Acts.” FREE - Visit our website for more information and registration.
Trending HR Considerations For Ministries in 2022: Friday, January 28th - The new year presents emerging HR issues for ministries in 2022. Churches are learning how to pivot and adapt to managing risk during COVID-19 vaccine mandates, discipline and terminations, disability leave management, and updating policies and procedures to account for new changes in the law. Termination of ministry in the call agreement template is also proving to be challenging for some pastors. Join Conference Minister Rev. David J. Ackerman and Attorney Dean A. Rocco as they discuss HR issues and offer legal considerations for your ministry. Register here
Called Special Meeting of Presbytery on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 10 am via Zoom for the purpose of acting on matters related to the 225th General Assembly. More information and registration
Help Wanted
Covenant Pastor
Bethany Presbyterian Church in Mendenhall, PA in Donegal Presbytery, is looking for a Covenant pastor. They are seeking a candidate to work a minimum of 30 hours per week with the opportunity to grow to full time (45 hours per week) as determined by the needs of the Church. Job description

Development Director
The Center is looking for a part-time Development Director. Responsibilities include annual campaign, grant writing, data management, and major donor cultivation. For more information, visit their website at www.thecenterbaltimore.org. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to Rev. Kate Foster, kfoster@baltimorepresbytery.org. Job description

Contemporary Music Leader
Christ Our Anchor Presbyterian Church is a small and welcoming congregation in the Cape St. Claire neighborhood of Annapolis, MD. This church plans to offer two worship services for all ages; one traditional and one contemporary and is seeking a music leader for the contemporary service. The ideal candidate would be creative, patient, organized, accepting, encouraging and demonstrates familiarity with contemporary Christian worship music. The Contemporary Music Leader shall be responsible to the Session of the church through the Worship Committee and shall be supervised by the Pastor. Job descriptionWebsite description

Interim Minister
The Presbytery of Baltimore is seeking a Minister of Word and Sacrament to serve on the presbytery staff as an Interim for our congregations. This individual will be available to serve one full time interim or two part time interims. Job description
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