Next Thursday is the 891st Gathering
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Although it should be on everyone’s calendar, it’s time to get ready for the 891st Gathering of our Presbytery, which is quickly approaching. Thursday morning’s event will, of course, include a brief time of worship, and a slate of important discernments and information.
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We are continuing to fine-tune the online format for these meetings. In addition to a compacted schedule of pertinent news sharing and a lively prayer service, we’re adding several opportunities for in-depth discussions and fellowship:
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The Chat feature will be available to everyone and we encourage your participation.
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12 Noon: Join the “Lunch Bunch” immediately after the business meeting to enjoy a midday snack or beverage with friends and colleagues in the Presbytery.
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12:30: Open Spaces return, albeit in online format. Smaller topic-based groups will break out for presentations and discussions. Topics TBA.
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Don't forget to update your Zoom software to ensure an ideal experience. Here's how.
We look forward to seeing you on the 13th!
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Calling all musicians and musical directors |
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During last month’s Vigil for Unity and Hope, we received a tremendous amount of compliments and appreciation for the variety of music provided by numerous churches in our Presbytery. Bearing witness to the gifts shared by such a talented group of people is an aspiration we truly wish to continue, and next week’s Gathering is another opportunity for us to showcase the wonderful music of our local congregations.
That is why we are reaching out to share more. If you, or someone you know, is involved with your church’s musical ministry and would like your recordings featured, we would be proud to share them with our broader community during future Presbytery events. We’ll be sure to credit any material submitted.
There’s much to be said about the communal power of music, and we can think of few betters ways to celebrate Christ together. Please contact Frank Perrelli with any questions, or if interested in participating.
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Thriving Congregations Grant deadline: May 14 |
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Many churches in our Presbytery are seeking to transform themselves through the development of viable and vibrant ministries, yet some lack the current leadership or membership capacity to fully realize their goals. The Commission on Thriving Congregations is aware of the growing number of congregations where assessment, planning and grant assistance may make a significant difference. Visit the Presbytery's website to apply or for more information.
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“Are we there yet?” That’s a question that is on most people’s minds these days as vaccinations proceed, the weather warms, and news about civic reopenings becomes commonplace.
Unfortunately, the answer to this question remains “No.” Although our country, state, and neighbors have made great strides in containing the virus, we still need to do our part to take care of each other. Until health officials announce the achievement of herd immunity or all-clear, precautions should continue being taken. Since the onset of the pandemic last year, we have endeavored to aggregate resources to help you navigate your decisions on how best to proceed. Some terrific recent examples include:
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A Regathering Plan - Hope United Church of Christ has been kind enough to share this helpful document with us. It details a phased approach to reopening.
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The 2021 Robert F. and Rosa M. Ferguson Student Scholarship Fund |
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The Presbytery of Baltimore established the Robert F. and Rosa M. Ferguson Student Scholarship Fund to provide financial assistance to deserving high school students who wish to further their education at an accredited college or university. Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson – he, a long-time member of Grace Presbyterian Church in Baltimore, Maryland, and she, a long-time educator in Baltimore City and County – generously gave the resources to fund this scholarship.
Priority shall be given to financially deserving students whose family income is modest. The amount of the scholarship shall be $5,000 for one year. Recipients may reapply for subsequent years. For application and additional information, visit our website.
The deadline for applications is May 15th.
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Black. Indigenous. People of Color. BIPOC. Each of these terms brings up a plethora of thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They are just people. People who happen to have ancestral ties to subsaharan Africa. People whose ancestors, over multiple generations, lived in a particular part of the world before invasion or colonization. People who too often face discrimination, and violence.
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Community Engagement Conversations - Join Center staff and others from Baltimore Presbytery for monthly conversations (1st Thursdays at 10 a.m.) about how our congregations can engage with their communities during Covid-19 and beyond. Register here.
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891st Gathering of the Presbytery of Baltimore
Save the date: Thursday May 13, 2021, 10 am – 12 noon. In addition to business and worship, there will be opportunities to attend break-out sessions later in the afternoon focused on timely topics TBA. More information will be shared on our website and in future editions of this Tidings e-newsletter.
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Worship and Music Conferences in Montreat
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This year, the conference theme is Gathered in My Name, and fitting with the name, The Presbyterian Association of Musicians are pleased to offer both in-person and online options for attending. They have assembled a stellar conference faculty that will be offering classes for all interests: musicians, pastors, educators, and church members - anyone interested in collaborative worship. Everyone is invited to visit their website to learn more about the plans for this summer.
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In-Person Conference Dates:
Week 1: June 20 - 25, 2021
Week 2: June 27 - July 2, 2021
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Online Conference Dates:
June 27 - July 2, 2021
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Part-time Temporary Supply Pastor
Knox Presbyterian Church, a small, but vibrant congregation in eastern Baltimore City, is seeking a part-time Temporary Supply Pastor. We seek a God inspired candidate with energy, hope and compassion to encourage and lead the congregation through a transition process that we pray will lead to new pastoral leadership. The Part-Time Pastor will lead worship activities, moderate meetings of the governing body and the congregation, lead the Church through a Mission Study, and provide support to ministry groups as well as spiritual support to the congregation. Full Job Description
Summer Camp Director
Office Administrator
Prince of Peace Presbyterian Church in Crofton MD seeks a part-time office administrator to support the church staff and congregation. Candidate should possess strong organizational skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office & website maintenance software, and ability to work independently. Other assets are a willingness to deal with the public, discretion, and ethical standards. Position is 24 hours per week. Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to church.office@popchurch.org
Director of Anchors-A-Wee Preschool
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The Presbytery offices are closed for visits or appointments until further notice, but staff and commissions continue to meet regularly online.
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