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A weekly newsletter from the Presbytery of Minnesota Valleys
October 28, 2026
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We are congregations who seek to be a collective expression of the Body of Christ, joyfully participating in Christ's ongoing life and work. "Therefore encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing."
I Thessalonians 5:11
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Congregation of the Week of November 1-7
First Presbyterian Church, Redwood Falls
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First Presbyterian Church - Redwood Falls
First Presbyterian is proud to be a vibrant and community-centered congregation in beautiful Redwood Falls, MN. Like many churches in our Presbytery, we are in a season of transition. Quentin Markfort is serving as our Temporary Pastoral Leader (an interim lay leader). Quentin is one of the few lay leaders in our Presbytery serving full time and taking classes to become a CRE. Both he and us as a congregation are excited about the future together!
Our vision statement is: “God’s timeless love transforms each of us to joyously continue the ministry of Jesus Christ in our community and in our world”. As a Congregation, we are excited to live this out through our annual Turkey Dinner coming up on Wednesday November 4th. See our Facebook event link here.
This event is at the Redwood Area Community Center and includes a turkey dinner with all the fixings and pie, as well as a bake sale put on by our middle and high school youth group.
Additionally, we live out our mission through our board of Deacons who check in our members and challenge us with monthly service projects. In September our congregation made thank you cards and kits to give to the law enforcement, ambulance, and fire station here in town. In October they led a coat and winter supplies drive to benefit our elementary students in need in our community.
Other areas of ministry we’re proud of are our ecumenical Piecemakers quilting group that meets twice per month and quilts over 75 quilts each year. We have a weekly elementary youth group that meets most Wednesdays after school and our parent-led middle and high school group meets once per month. They just partnered with our mission committee and congregational donations to purchase three shopping carts full of toys to give to Redwood County’s Share the Spirit campaign. Our choir sings several times per month in worship, and we have a faithful group that meets for Bible Study at 3pm each Monday. We’re also proud hosts of a Scouts troop that uses our space for weekly troop meetings, area board meetings, and yearly lock-ins.
We have lots to be thankful for and we celebrate all the good things happening in our church and community for the glory of God!
Prayer Corner:
Those on our Prayer List: Carly (experiencing a high-risk pregnancy) and Kevin (recovering from a stroke)
Those in long-term care facilities: Lois & Marlys
Those fighting cancer: Jerry, Sally, Robb, and Dale
Session:
Moderator: Rev. Anna Williamson
Pastor: Quentin Markfort, Temporary Pastoral Leader
Clerk of Session: Sonya Alexander
Treasurer: Bob Alexander
Ruling Elders: Nick Brozek, Shawn Corder, Rick Hauge, Stephanie Klavetter, Nathan Stephens, Gene Schultz, Bruce Tiffany
Deacons:
Dan Alexander, Adrienne Danielson, Julie Fiala, Leon King, Laura Kohler, Amber Kleinhuzien, Nancy Miller, Becky Stephens, Shannon Sweetman, Dan Tiffany
Ministers: Members of the Congregation
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Upcoming Featured Congregations
November 8-14: Renville
November 15-21: Round Lake
November 22-28: Rushmore
November 29-December 5: Russell
Information/articles/stories/updates/pictures are due the Wednesday before your featured week. ***It is never too soon to send your information in! :)
tina@minnesotavalleys.org
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Together in Christ
Dear Presbytery Family,
Sometimes, in the middle of the night, when I am sound asleep, my dog jumps up on my bed and drops her bone on my head. That has a way of waking me up!
I had a similar experience recently in a conversation with an elder from one of our churches. The "bone" she dropped on my head was a simple question:
"What's our vision for the Presbytery?"
That's a question that has a way of waking a person up.
As I reflected on it, I realized that this needs to be a Presbytery-wide conversation. The future of our shared ministry cannot be defined by one person. Yet every conversation has to start somewhere, so let me begin by sharing a bit of what I dream for our Presbytery.
I dream of a Presbytery where no congregation feels abandoned because it cannot afford traditional pastoral leadership.
I dream of a Presbytery where our smallest churches know they are every bit as valued as our largest churches.
I dream of a Presbytery that shares resources freely, develops leaders courageously, experiments boldly, and measures success not by survival but by faithfulness.
If one congregation discovers a way to reach its community, that blessing should become a gift to every congregation.
If one congregation has resources to share, those resources should flow outward.
If one congregation is struggling, the whole Presbytery should come alongside.
I dream of a Presbytery that helps churches redirect more of their energy and resources toward making disciples and serving their communities. Imagine what God might do if every congregation had greater freedom to invest in mission, relationships, and ministry right where they are.
Friends, I'm awake, and I'm excited.
I believe God has gifted this Presbytery with faithful people, creative leaders, and congregations that care deeply about their communities. I would love to see our Presbytery become a ministry multiplier, helping congregations remain vibrant witnesses where God has planted them while freeing more energy and resources for God's mission in the world.
Most of all, I'd love to hear your dreams. What is your vision for our Presbytery? What do you hope God is calling us to become together?
Together in Christ,
With courage, devotion and good spirit as a colleague,
Rev. Beth Buckwalter-Miller
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You are Invited
Invitation: After more than twenty-six years in ministry, the Reverand Mark Ford will be retiring in January 2027. Lakes Area Presbyterian Church of Baxter, MN, is holding a special worship service Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 11 am, followed by a luncheon in his honor. RSVP appreciated.
Cards or messages may be sent to Bea Hayen, Clerk of Session, at bhayen60954@gmail.com, 724 F St. NE, Apt. 4, Brainerd, MN 56401.
(ph: 715-292-1191)
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Prayer Corner ~ Rev. Dwight Chamberlain, former pastor of Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, Rushmore (1965-1971), passed onto glory by God's grace, on October 7. Dwight Ralph Chamberlain Obituary
Condolences can be sent: 19130 Homestead Circle, Eden Prairie, MN
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Your Voice Matters. Remember to Vote!
Election season is here, and early voting is underway in Minnesota. We encourage everyone who is eligible to take the opportunity to participate in the election process.
Whether you vote early or on Election Day, take time to make your voice heard. How you vote is up to you. That you vote matters.
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Why 'Presbyterian' Will Never Be a Political Party: A Churchwide Study Series
Introducing a new churchwide study series! Co-Moderators, the Rev. Marta Pumroy-Cordero and the Rev. Dr. Kristopher D. Schondelmeyer, will host a series of three webinars on Fridays throughout October, offering an in-depth look at the PC(USA)'s Social Witness Policy.
The series will be divided into 3 sessions - the 2 remaining sessions:
Each session will feature different guests from across the PC(USA) who will join the Co-Moderators in reflecting and expanding on each of these three topics. You can register for each Zoom session by clicking on the links above. Participants are encouraged to read the corresponding sections in this document prior to each session.
This session is for mid council leaders, clergy, church leaders, and anyone else who would like to explore what it means to believe God is the "lord of conscience."
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🎉 The Mighty Clerks Are Coming to Zoom! 🎉
📣 What’s Up with the GA Amendments?
Curious about the amendments coming out of the 2026 General Assembly that presbyteries will be voting on? Wondering what they mean for our churches and the wider PC(USA)?
Join us for a lively, informative, and (yes!) fun Zoom gathering!
📅 Thursday, November 12
🕡 6:30 p.m.
💻 On Zoom
Led by the Mighty Clerks of the Synod of Lakes and Prairies, we’ll unpack the proposed amendments, explain what’s at stake, and help you feel more confident about the upcoming votes.
No polity degree required! Whether you’re a seasoned elder, a pastor, a church leader, or simply curious about how our Presbyterian church works, you’re invited!
Come with your questions, bring your curiosity, and join the conversation. Presbyterian polity doesn’t have to be puzzling when the Mighty Clerks are on the case! 💪📖
Mark your calendar and spread the word. We hope to see you there!
Here’s the zoom link – we are not registering, people can simply show up. I have put very few restrictions on this link so hopefully we don’t run into troubles…..
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82910210940?pwd=7eDQaLIgbavXk8MYK1ljbYQsHWnmFV.1
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Zoom Webinar on The Algorithm and the Almighty
Thursday, October 29
2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m. ET
The Office of Innovation and Leadership Development of Presbyterian Life & Witness invite you to Faithful Engagement with AI, a 90-minute interactive session centered on The Algorithm and the Almighty, the AI social witness policy adopted by the 227th General Assembly.
Join us on Zoom (No registration necessary)
During the first half, Aimee Moiso, Manager of Social Witness Policy, will help us explore the policy, its theological framework, and its implications for engaging AI through a Reformed lens.
During the second half, we will move into small groups and apply what we have learned to a case scenario. Together, we will practice using the policy as a resource for discernment and consider how it might shape shared practices around AI in our ministries and communities.
Open to the PC(USA) family and friends of the PC(USA). Feel free to extend this invitation to others. Come ready to learn, discuss, and practice together.
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Year-End Giving Resources
As 2026 comes to a close, the Presbyterian Foundation has put together several resources to help congregations encourage and support year-end giving. Attached below you'll find two bulletin inserts that can be used to promote year-end giving, along with a year-end tax guide that may be helpful for members as they make their charitable giving plans.
Bulletin Insert 1
Bulletin Insert 2
Year-End Planning
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Are you looking for resources to train incoming elders and deacons?
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Would you like to join our Pulpit Supply Ministry Team???
The Presbytery, through the Commission on Leadership, maintains a pulpit supply list which can be found on the Presbytery website or by contacting Tina Halvorson. Each person listed has successfully completed a background check. We are always looking for pastor's and ruling elders to add to our list! If you know someone or are interested yourself, please let the presbytery office know. We would like to have people on the list from every corner of our Presbytery, so churches have someone in their own neighborhood to call when they have a need!
Those providing pulpit supply receive $150 if preaching at one service, and $200 if preaching at two on the same day, plus reimbursement for mileage at the current IRS rate.
Please note, if you are filling a pulpit more than two times in succession, you do need permission from our Commission on Leadership. Just email or call our COL co-chairs, Louella Voigt and Rev. Andy Davis with your request.
Louella Voigt: (507) 227-6901
Rev. Andy Davis: (507) 995-1820
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Greetings,
Thanks for your partnership these recent weeks in helping us communicate 2027 benefits changes and updates in time for Employer Agreement submissions. I know with the start of a new program year and budget season, there is much for you to juggle this time of year. I am grateful for you! Our team in Philadelphia is working hard to make sure all is in place for employee Annual Enrollment in just a few weeks.
A head start on Annual Enrollment
To ensure your congregations are prepared for Annual Enrollment (Oct. 19-Nov. 6), I have included some tips you can share in your upcoming communications with your congregations to help them make informed decisions about their 2027 benefits:
Annual Enrollment for 2027 benefits is Oct. 19-Nov. 6. During Annual Enrollment, members should:
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Review, elect, or make changes to benefits in Benefits Connect. This includes adding or removing coverage for eligible family members.
- Ensure Social Security numbers are provided for all covered family members.
- Review and update beneficiary designations, as needed.
Members with questions should contact the Board of Pensions at 800‑PRESPLAN (800‑773‑7752) (TTY: 711) for help during Annual Enrollment.
Our Annual Enrollment checklist and other resources are available to help members navigate Annual Enrollment with confidence. You can also explore our toolkits, which include materials that can be shared to help members better understand the benefits available to them. Anyone with questions should contact Member Services at 800‑PRESPLAN (800‑773‑7752) (TTY: 711) for help during Annual Enrollment.
Post-Retirement Medical Plan transition
Effective Jan. 1, 2027, Post-Retirement Medical Plan coverage will transition from Humana to medical coverage through the UnitedHealthcare Group Medicare Advantage PPO plan (a passive PPO plan), with Part D prescription drug coverage through Express Scripts Medicare (PDP). Members planning to retire in 2026 may enroll in coverage through Humana and remain enrolled through 2026. Resources and support are available for retired members to navigate this transition.
Support when it matters most: Emergency Assistance
Extreme weather conditions continue to affect many of our communities across the country. For those impacted by unexpected financial hardship, the Board can help. Emergency Assistance through the Assistance Program remains available, and I encourage all eligible Benefits Plan members to explore this resource. Please contact me if you want more information about these or any other grants through the Assistance Program.
Thank you for the ways you support your congregations and leaders through our ministry at the Board of Pensions. Please reach out if I can support you in that work.
With gratitude,
Rev. Dr. Ken Green
Church Consultant
215-587-7384
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2026 IRS mileage rate is 76¢ per mile AS OF JULY 1, 2026! Note the change!
Per Capita 2027 - $48.00 per member
| | | | 2026 | | 2027 | | PMV | $30.24 | -$0.78 | $29.46
| | Synod | $5.50 | $0.00 | $5.50
| | GA | $11.26 | $1.78 | $13.04
| | TOTAL | $47.00 | $1.00 | $48.00
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Quick Links
- Clergy Wellness Grants
- Pulpit Supply and Moderator Information
- Public Domain Hymn Project link
- Template for a social media policy from the Luverne Church is Here
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Support our Matthew 25 Mission Partners by inviting the pastors of our New Worshiping Communities to visit your church!
They are doing ground-breaking work and have inspiring stories to share. Our Financial support helps to sustain their work.
Rev. Dr. Candace Adams, Pastor Elizabeth Tot, and Mr. Thijin Gatwech are delighted to share about their ministries with your congregation. Please be mindful of the following rates:
Speaker fee (presentation) or pulpit supply: $150 (minimum)
Mileage: current IRS rate (to and from the location)
Also, it is requested that you receive a special offering to support the ongoing work of their ministries.
To contact Rev. Dr. Candace Adams: (320) 905-5453
To contact Rev. Elizabeth Tot or Thijin Gatwech: (952) 428-8994
| | Our Matthew 25 Missional Partners | |
Rev. Dr. Candace Adams - pastor of our New Worshipping Community, The Compassionate Way, Candace serves children residing in a mobile home park; dependent adults at an adult daycare center; residents at skilled, assisted, and independent living facilities; women in recovery from addiction; and more. Funds will be used for the work she does.
October Newsletter
To donate, write the check to Lakes Area Presbyterian Church with The Compassionate Way in the memo line and send to:
Lakes Area Presbyterian Church
Attn: Candace Adams
7761 Excelsior Rd
Baxter MN 56425
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Pastor Elizabeth Tot - pastor of our South Sudanese Fellowship in St. Cloud, Elizabeth serves primarily single mothers in the South Sudanese community who are struggling to make ends meet. She is a pastoral presence to the Nuer people in St. Cloud and Mankato. Funds will be used to help her care for her community here and in Ethiopia and South Sudan. PDF Link
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AVL5SP1Ph/?mibextid=wwXIfr
To donate, write a check to First Presbyterian Church with “Pastor Elizabeth Tot” on the memo line and send to:
First Presbyterian Church
340 5th Ave S
Saint Cloud MN 56301
Pastor Elizabeth Tot and Mr. Thijin Gatwech are available to visit your church on a Sunday morning! They will share the sermon. If you would like a visit, just email
Beth at beth@minnesotavalleys.org AND
Thijin at thijingatnyatot@gmail.com to schedule.
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Mr. Thijin Gatwech - leader of the Nuer Professionals Network (NPN) with a degree in business. Thijin lives in St. Cloud and is networked to South Sudanese people throughout the region. He helps his people receive mental health education, as well as move toward financial independence and home ownership.
NPN Links:
https://youtube.com/@nuerprofessionalsnetwork
https://facebook.com/nuerprofessionalsnetwork
https://instagram.com/nuerprofessionalsnetwork
Support NPN Sudanese Ministry (yearly donation receipts sent)
Serving Refugees • Immigrants • Minority Communities
Your gift helps us support issues of family and children in our community, such as mental health and youth identity crisis, for NPN to empower and uplift the Sudanese American community facing challenges of resettlement. To donate, write a check to First Presbyterian Church with “Thijin Gatwech, NPN” on the memo line and send to:
First Presbyterian Church
340 5th Ave S
Saint Cloud MN 56301
OR
Zelle: info@nuerprofessionalsnetwork.org
Cash App: $NPNempowersudanese
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PW "The Sower"
The Sower - August 2026
What's New?!
There are so many things in this issue so I encourage all women to read it for the next book study, many opportunities for mission projects, some places that need help financially because of disasters, etc so PLEASE take time to read it all!
The next PWSCT (PW Synod of Lakes & Prairies Coordinating Team) Will be October 16-18, in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin. I may join by ZOOM as it is about a 7-8 hour drive. We will be partnering with their own church's HELPFUL HUTCH to fill its shelves as our mission project. Items such as baby needs, first aid items, personal hygiene, cleaning supplies, paper products, etc. See attachment....Next month I will have a report from that meeting. Blessings to all!
Gloria Rust, Representative
PWSCT
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Pastoral Leadership Opportunities
First Presbyterian Church of Amboy - Pastor, 20-25 hours/week
Ministry Discernment Profile
First Presbyterian Church of Litchfield - Pastor
Interested candidates may call the church at 320-693-3548
Ministry opportunities are posted on the Church Leadership Connection website -- Church Leadership Connection (pcusa.org)
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