Welcome to this week's edition of our e-letter, Presbytery Matters. | | | |
Robinson Elmwood United Church Supports Syracuse Children Through Blessings in a Backpack
For the past 10 years, Robinson Elmwood United Church has faithfully supported children at Delaware Primary School through the Blessings in a Backpack program, helping provide food for students in need on weekends and outside school hours. Located in one of Syracuse’s most economically challenged neighborhoods, Delaware Primary serves many families facing food insecurity.
The annual fundraiser to support the school, Dash for Delaware, will take place on June 6th. See information below. Community members are invited to support this important ministry through donations and participation.
Donations to the Blessings in a Backpack program can be made online.
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We want to hear about the mission stories from our Presbytery's worshiping communities. What mission work are you involved in? How are your members working in the community? What story would you like to share with others in the Presbytery?
Send any mission stories from your congregation that you would like to share to: CaySyrNews@gmail.com.
Deadline is 12 p.m. on Wednesdays for the current week's edition of
Presbytery Matters.
We want to share your stories, missions, activities and more. Also, make sure to like our Facebook page by clicking the "Facebook" icon at the top of this newsletter.
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We are asking our churches to share this newsletter with your members each week. Click the button below to forward the email or to obtain the newsletter link.
Thank you!
| | Joys and Concerns around the Presbytery | | |
In our prayers together this week:
- Please pray for Doug Russell, of Baldwinsville Presbyterian Church, in your prayers as he battles cancer. Pray for strength, healing, and peace for Doug and his loved ones during this difficult time.
- Please pray Jerry Armstrong (Whitelaw Presbyterian) Jerry is 15 years old with recurrent bone cancer that has spread to his esophagus. Please continue to pray more than ever for both Jerry and his family. Cards can be sent to Jerry Armstrong at PO Box 414 Wampsville, NY 13163.
- Prayers for peace for the people and country of South Korea.
- Pray for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one.
- The voiceless.
- All those who have been separated from their families.
- All those in America.
- Our brothers & sisters in Haiti.
- All those in Cuba.
- All those in Sudan.
- All those in Ukraine.
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All those in Lebanon.
- All those in Israel and Gaza.
- All displaced people.
- All those who are homebound.
- All those who battling addiction and their loved ones.
- Keep all those who battling cancer and other chronic illnesses in your prayers. Please ask God to be by their side and to be with their doctors and families.
- Please pray for all those who are dealing with the painful grief of losing a beloved family pet.
In the cycle of prayer our Presbytery, please pray for these congregations, faith communities, and individuals: Columbian, LaFayette; First, Liverpool; First, Marcellus; First, Mexico; Morrisville Community Church
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Joint Gathering Inspires Energy, Unity for Road Ahead
The May 16th Joint Gathering of the Presbyteries of Cayuga‑Syracuse and Susquehanna Valley at First Presbyterian Church of Cazenovia was a day filled with energy, connection, and hope for the future. From the moment participants arrived, Cazenovia’s warm hospitality—thoughtful parking help, gracious hosts, and delicious homemade cookies—set a welcoming tone for the day.
Worship opened the gathering with singing and scripture, grounding us in the story of Joshua and the crossing into the promised land. We were reminded that in every river crossing, God goes before us, making a way even when we cannot yet see it. That message shaped the spirit of the entire event.
A lively Presbytery Trivia Game helped us learn one another’s histories, celebrate the unique identities of our congregations, and spark conversations across tables. The trivia, maps, and storytelling created natural moments of laughter, discovery, and relationship‑building -- exactly the kind of momentum needed as we move toward becoming one presbytery.
Rev. Bill Carter, Pastor of the Clarks Summit Presbyterian Church in the newly merged Presbytery of Mountain Laurel in Pennsylvania and a key leader in the merger of the Lehigh and Lackawanna presbyteries, shared a thoughtful and balanced presentation, naming both the challenges and the opportunities before us with clarity and honesty. His reflections helped frame our shared work ahead: to build on the gifts of those who show up, to honor our past, and to step faithfully into what God is shaping next.
Throughout the day, participants noted the strong energy, the smooth flow, and the sense that the gathering kept building forward movement. It was a day that strengthened connections, deepened understanding, and affirmed that God is already at work preparing the way.
We extend heartfelt thanks to the Cazenovia congregation for their extraordinary hospitality and the countless hours they invested to make this gathering a success. Their labor of love blessed us all.
Bill Carter has generously shared his PowerPoint presentation from the May 16 gathering, and the full presentation was also recorded. If your church would like access to either resource, please contact Mary Anderson at asst.presbyter@gmail.com.
This kind of gathering will happen again, with the next one planned for the Susquehanna Valley Presbytery. We are deeply grateful to all who drove long distances to be part of this special day -- your presence strengthened the spirit of connection and shared purpose among our two presbyteries.
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ReWire Energy:
Helping Churches Save Money and Care for Creation
Many congregations are looking for ways to lower utility costs and make their buildings more efficient. ReWire Energy, a New York–based Minority‑Owned Business, partners with organizations -- including churches -- to help them understand how their buildings use energy and where they can save.
ReWire offers practical services such as building assessments, energy‑saving recommendations, help navigating incentives, and support for installing upgrades like solar panels or smart heating and cooling systems. Their digital platform gives a simple, real‑time picture of how a building is performing and where improvements could make a difference.
Their goal is straightforward: help organizations reduce costs, operate more efficiently, and take meaningful steps toward sustainability.
Why This Matters for Your Church:
- Lower utility bills free up resources for ministry
- Older buildings can become more efficient and comfortable
- Environmental stewardship aligns with our call to care for creation
- Simple guidance helps congregations navigate complex energy programs
- Long‑term planning supports faithful use of church property
| Help Us Keep Our Presbytery Records Current! | |
We’ve made the Church Information Form easier than ever — it is now completely digital.
Each church is asked to complete the updated form so we can maintain accurate contact and leadership information throughout the presbytery.
✅ Takes only a few minutes
✅ Easy online submission
✅ Helps us serve your congregation better
Please click the link below, complete your church’s information, and submit the form.
Church Information Form
Once submitted, it will be automatically sent to the Stated Clerk’s office.
A Microsoft Form version is currently under development but is not yet ready for publication.
Please complete this form as soon as possible. This will become an annual process moving forward.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me at statedclerk@cayugasyracuse.org.
If you or your church do not have access to the digital form or the necessary technology --or if you know of a congregation that does not -- please let me know. I will gladly provide a physical copy of the form.
Thank you all for your cooperation. I truly appreciate it.
Rev. Ben Fitzgerald-Fye
Stated Clerk
Presbytery of Cayuga-Syracuse
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Once upon a time, a young man named Jacob, went on a journey to find his purpose in life. He ended up camping under the giant sequoias of California, and after several days of meditation, he felt a calling to connect people to the soil and to food. After many jobs, he landed in Syracuse taking on the job as Executive Director of Salt City Harvest Farm (SCHF) in Kirkville.
On Friday, May 8, members of the Cayuga-Syracuse and the Liverpool First Presbyterian Social Justice Committee met with Jacob Gigler-Caro, and Chittenango Church Elder. Jacob gave a tour of the farm and explained how most of the land is divided in ⅛ acres. New American farmers with an agricultural background grow foods native to their homeland for a small rental fee. They sell 60% of their crops back to SCHF. 25% of the 60% goes to the CNY Food Bank and the rest is sold at the Regional Market in Shed C.
The SCHF is growing in its mission and in his six years as executive director, Jacob and his staff have also grown their profit margin steadily. The land they use has been donated by the owners of 60 acres. The owners are now preparing to sell the entire 60 acres and SCHF will begin a fundraising campaign to be able to buy the land to grow this mission.
The Social Justice Committee would like to support this enterprising mission, Salt City Harvest Farm, in growing culture, and community alongside the New American Community through the cross-cultural exchange of food traditions with access to farmland, education, and economic opportunities.
- Pray for the staff and farmers
- Pray for the board as they set up a fundraising campaign
- Stop by and visit the farm and see what it is all about.
- Buy food at the Regional Market from SCHF in Shed C.
- Volunteer with one of the many committees that support the work of SCHF.
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Update on Awareness of the Plight of Palestine
In March, a viewing of “Where the Olive Trees Weep” was held at Liverpool First Presbyterian, sponsored by the Cayuga Syracuse Social Justice Committee. Several churches were represented including Chittenango, Pebble Hill, Cazenovia and Liverpool. Rev. Monica Stryon presented the documentary and over a soup dinner, facilitated discussion. Conversation was passionate and new awareness was established.
The Social Justice Committee strongly recommends other churches who are interested watch this documentary. Monica would be happy to join you in facilitating discussion as well. In order to view this documentary, please contact Rev. Garrett Anderson (revgarrettanderson@gmail.com) who has access to the subscription for viewing.
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Kairos Palestine II:
A Congregational Study Guide
This resource invites congregations into a sacred dialogue with the Kairos Palestine II document—a living confession born from the heart of Palestinian Christian suffering. To study it during Lent, that ancient season of preparation and renewal, is to walk the path of baptism once more: to rediscover what it means to pledge our faith in Christ and to boldly renounce the sin and evil alive in our world today. Download Free PDF Copy.
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In light of the Supreme Court's recent decision to dismantle the 1965 Voting Rights Act, we are reminded of the General Assembly's decisive stance on voting rights, first approved by the 218th General Assembly in 2008 and reaffirmed by the 225th General Assembly in 2022.
The resolution, "Lift Every Voice: Democracy, Voting Rights and Electoral Reform," states the PC(USA)'s clear opposition to attempts at voter suppression, expressions of white supremacist and white Christian nationalist ideologies, and efforts at the state level to subvert legal elections. It recognizes the role of gerrymandering and the corrupting power of money in electoral and governing processes and calls for election finance reform. It denounces the intimidation of election officials and workers and calls on law enforcement agencies and lawmakers to enforce and strengthen laws to protect them. Read the full resolution here.
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The next "Can We Talk?" gathering will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 21, 2026 in the lounge at Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church, 5299 Jamesville Road in Syracuse.
Coffee and goodies will be served.
The gathering is for retired clergy, clps, and retired Christian Educators - those who have served churches and those who have labored in other venues. First-timers are always welcome!
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Steeple Coffee House presents Dave Novak and the PartyNuts
Dave Novak and the PartyNuts formed in 1978 (as Novak’s Assorted PartyNuts). Original members Dave Novak, John Dancks, and Mike Kallet were joined by Ed McBarron (in 1989), JT Hall (1995), and Don Williams (2014).
From Elvis, Buddy Holly, and Johnny Cash to Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, the Beatles, and Motown, the Dave Novak and the PartyNuts 6-piece ensemble will provide great tunes and a great time. They are all unapologetically NUTS!
Dave Novak plays guitar and vocals. He formed his first band, the CAZCATS, in 1961 with John Dancks. Dave also plays with the FABCATS, MONTERAYS, and the DAVE NOVAK 5. He was inducted into the SAMMY Hall of Fame in 2008.
John Dancks, the most in-demand bassist in the area, plays with various local bands, including The CADLEYS, QUATRO, and DEAD to the CORE. JD was inducted into the SAMMY Hall of Fame in 2013. Mike Kallet plays keyboards, guitar, and vocals. He’s also a member of the FABCATS. Ed McBarron, the band’s drummer and vocalist, also keeps time with the LIUZZO BAND. JT Hall leads his own original jazz group, the JT HALL JAZZ CONSORT, and has been a stalwart of the local music scene for nearly as long as Novak. Don Williams, a virtuoso saxophonist and flutist, plays with the CNY SONGBIRDS and BLUE AVENUE.
It promises to be a fabulous night of music!
Where: Steeple Coffee House is in the United Church of Fayetteville at 310 E. Genesee St. in Fayetteville, NY. The venue is Accessible. Plenty of free parking behind the church with entries from E. Genesee St., Chapel St., and Walnut St.
When: Saturday, May 23rd - Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and runs until 9:30 p.m. Doors open at 7:00 p.m.
Cost: Suggested donation is $15-20 (cash) includes refreshments
| | Instead of Chicken BBQs, have you ever tried Turkey BBQ? It's delicious. | | Save the Date: Presbyteries learning event in Geneva | | |
How to contact our Lead Presbyter, the Rev. Greg Garis
Email: leadpresbyter@cayugasyracuse.org
How to contact our Assistant to the Lead Presbyter, the Rev. Mary Anderson
Email: asst.presbyter@gmail.com
How to contact our Stated Clerk, the Rev Ben Fitzgerald-Fye
Office Phone: 315-291-0360 (call or text)
Email: statedclerk@cayugasyracuse.org
Mail received at:
Scipioville Presbyterian Church
Attn: Pastor Ben
3428 State Route 34B
Scipio Center NY 13147
How to contact our Bookkeeper, Kristin Schierer
Email: finance@cayugasyracuse.org
More information is linked below:
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Our Address: PO Box 438, Syracuse, NY 13214
Click Here for Staff Contact Information
Click Here for a list of Live Streams from our churches
Click Here for a list of Past Editions of Presbytery Matters
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Director of Music Ministries / Organist / Choir Director
The United Church of Fayetteville, N.Y. seeks a part-time Director of Music Ministries for our strong music program. UCF is a warm and welcoming church, committed to serving our community and loving our neighbors. As DMM, you would provide music for Sunday worship, direct the church’s vocal choir and handbell choir, incorporate guest instrumentalists into worship as needed, and participate in weekly rehearsals and the weekly worship service.
Candidates should be proficient piano and organ accompanists and choral/handbell conductors. We will consider separate candidates for the positions of organist and choir director. UCF has a 27-rank Johnson pipe organ, a four-octave set of Schulmerich handbells, and an extensive music library. Learn about our community at www.theucf.org. Please send a letter and resume to employment@theucf.org or Music Search Committee, The United Church of Fayetteville, 310 E. Genessee St., Fayetteville, N.Y. 13066.
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Are you hiring?
If your church is hiring, please send an announcement and job description to Communication Coordinator Sarah Buckshot at caysyrnews@gmail.com
Please Note: Hiring announcements will run in Presbytery Matters for 3 weeks. If the position remains open after 3 weeks, please resubmit.
Thank you, Sarah Buckshot, Communications Coordinator.
| | Around the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) | | |
Finding God at the movies
Jeffrey Overstreet appears on ‘A Matter of Faith: A Presby Podcast’
God can indeed be found in the movies, says Jeffrey Overstreet, who teaches film and creative writing at Seattle Pacific University and wrote “Lost and Found in the Cathedral of Cinema,” published last week.
Overstreet was the guest of Simon Doong and the Rev. Lee Catoe, the hosts of “A Matter of Faith: A Presby Podcast.” Listen to their 72-minute conversation here.
Overstreet recalled learning Philippians 4:8 by heart in his childhood. It’s helped guide him ever since — especially the part about being just.
“I took the whole verse seriously, and I came to believe that if I was looking for what is just and excellent and worthy of praise, then I was looking for God. That’s God’s territory,” he told the hosts. “I saw beauty and truth and goodness — things worthy of praise — in the art and entertainment happening out there,” outside the confines of the conservative faith in which he was raised. “I was surprisingly moved by the movies I saw. I was captivated by conflicts of good and evil. I saw how the wages of sin and death were being played out. I saw variations of ‘Pilgrim’s Progress.’ I found God in the movies all over the place.”
Continue reading...
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Ordered Ministries
Regarding Ruling Elders: A Monthly Series for Serving Faithfully
Sam, after worship one Sunday: Pastor, I read something in the presbytery’s newsletter that mentioned a gathering for people in ordered ministries. At first, I thought, “Does the presbytery order people into ministry?” Can you explain this term?
Pastor: Sam, let’s get our coffee and sit down to talk.
In the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), ordered ministries refers to those offices in the church into which people are ordained and set apart to provide ordered leadership and service, “so that the ministry of the whole people of God may flourish” (Book of Order, G-2.0102). “The Church’s ordered ministries described in the New Testament and maintained by this church are deacons and presbyters (ministers of the Word and Sacrament and ruling elders)” (G-2.0102).
People who are elected to these ordered ministries are ordained. “In ordination the church sets apart with prayer and the laying on of hands those who have been called by God through the voice of the church to serve as deacons, ruling elders, and ministers of the Word and Sacrament” (W-4.0401). Ordination is an act of a council of the church, such as a presbytery or session. The constitutional questions found in W-4.0404 are asked and answered at ordination and each time a person is installed for a new term of service, but the laying on of hands takes place only at ordination, once for each office (W-4.0403). The constitutional questions asked at ordination and installation are the same for all ordered ministries, except for the last question, which is specifically about the duties of the particular ministry.
Continue reading...
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P.O. Box 438, Syracuse 13214
(315) 632-5698
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"I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them
bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
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