Welcome to this week's edition of our e-letter, Presbytery Matters. | | | |
Cake Walk Weathers the Storm
Marcellus First Presbyterian raises funds for Clear Path for Veterans
Although rain on Saturday, June 6, threatened to cancel the annual cake walk sponsored by Marcellus First Presbyterian Church, a church member came to the rescue by providing tents to cover participants and protect the chalked sidewalk course.
A longtime fixture of Marcellus Olde Home Days, the cake walk once again drew enthusiastic crowds eager to test their luck. Participants circled the numbered squares, hoping to land on the winning number and take home a homemade cake. Church members donated 57 cakes, all of which were claimed by lucky winners throughout the event.
According to event chair Jane Horyl, the cake walk raised $515. Proceeds will benefit Clear Path for Veterans in Chittenango. The nonprofit organization provides support and services for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. On its website, Clear Path for Veterans describes itself as “a place where healing can begin, relationships can grow and belonging feels real again.”
Despite the wet weather, the event continued successfully and provided a meaningful contribution to a local organization serving those who have served our country.
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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 Jerry Armstrong (Whitelaw Presbyterian) Jerry is a teenager with recurrent bone cancer. Please continue to pray more than ever for both Jerry and his family. He is back in NYC for another clinical trial and will be starting radiation again soon for the tumors in his lungs. Cards can be sent to Jerry Armstrong at PO Box 414 Wampsville, NY 13163.
- 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.
- 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: Isaiah’s Table, Syracuse; Korean Church of Syracuse; Park Central, Syracuse; Robinson Elmwood United Church, Syracuse; First, Weedsport; Whitelaw
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The Annual Meeting of the Presbytery of Cayuga-Syracuse will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church of Auburn and on Zoom. Meeting registration begins at 9:30 a.m.
Commissioner Names, Requests to be Excused and Prayer Requests should be sent to the Stated Clerk (statedclerk@cayugasyracuse.org) by June 12, 2026.
Please read all supporting documents prior to the meeting.
We look forward to a productive time together!
A copy of the Guide for Commissioners can be found here.
To attend the meeting virtually, please register on Zoom.
Meeting Papers:
Annual Meeting Docket (New: PDF includes links to all documents.)
Assistant to the Lead Presbytery Report (Not included in docket.)
March 2026 Draft Minutes
Nominations for Officers
Annual Report of the Stated Clerk
Parity Report (UPDATED)
Lead Presbytery Report
Food Supplemental Motion
Food Supplemental Grant Application
Stated Clerk Contract
Treasurer's Report
COM Report
Temporary Pastoral Agreement (UPDATED)
Finance and Property Annual Report
Vacancy Offset Policy (NEW)
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Guest Speaker Dr. Alic Czachowski to share journey
at Annual Meeting
Dr. Alic Czachowski will be speaking at the Cayuga-Syracuse Presbyterian meeting on June 13. They are a guest speaker invited by the Social Justice Committee to speak on their experiences as a person who is transgender. Here is a bit of information on Alic.
Alic Czachowski (he/they) is originally from Liverpool, NY. He has lived in Philadelphia, New Orleans, and currently resides in New York City. Alic attended SUNY Oswego for his BA in Public Justice, Temple University for his Masters in Public Health, and Northern Illinois University for his EdD in Adult and Higher Education. Alic is the Senior Executive Director of Alice Health Promotion, part of Columbia Health at Columbia University.
Alic knew he was different from other kids from a very young age, but did not have the words for what it was until he was older. He first came out as transgender in his late 20s and began his social and physical transition in his 30s. He has wonderful and supportive family and friends who support him! He enjoys spending free time with family and friends, his dog McKinney, traveling, ghost hunting, indulging in anything Star Wars, and going to Broadway shows.
We hope you will join us for this special opportunity to listen, learn, and grow together.
| 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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EMERGING GOSPEL COMMUNITY
GRANT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JUNE 16th 10:00 AM
Are you dreaming of planting a new ministry? Revitalizing a congregation? Starting a fresh expression of church that reaches people right where they are? If so, the Synod of the Northeast’s Emerging Gospel Community Grant may be just the opportunity to help your vision come to life. We are here to help you take the first step.
The Synod of the Northeast is excited to invite you to an informational Zoom webinar designed to walk you through the application process for the 2026 Emerging Gospel Community Grant. This session will offer insight, inspiration, and practical tools to understand the grant criteria, help navigate our grant application system, craft a compelling proposal, and discern how God may be calling your emerging community to something new.
Why Attend?
- Discover how the grant supports new worshiping communities, church plants, revitalization efforts, and innovative outreach ministries.
- Learn the key elements of a strong application, including mission clarity, leadership development, sustainability planning, and community engagement.
- Hear stories about past recipients whose ministries are thriving today because they dared to dream -- and act in faith.
Connect with Synod leaders and the Synod’s Grant Coordinator who are ready to walk alongside you on the journey.
Whether your idea is still forming or you are ready to apply, this webinar will be a hopeful space to learn, ask questions, and be encouraged by others walking a similar path. We believe God is stirring new life in communities across the church --- and this grant might just be the catalyst your ministry needs.
REGISTER HERE LINK
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New York Health Act
Are people in your congregation having difficulty paying their healthcare bills? Do some of them put off getting care because they can't afford to go to a doctor? Medical debt is the most common reason for Americans to go into bankruptcy! The recent jump in health insurance premiums and the people cut from Medicaid is making this problem even worse.
There is a bill in the New York State legislature that addresses the concerns of people worried about being able to pay for health care for themselves, their families, or the people they care about. It's called the New York Health Act (A1466/S3425).
Under the NY Health Act there would be no medical debts in the future. Healthcare would be available to all, regardless of their ability to pay. Learn the basics of the New York Health Act by joining the webinar New York Health Act 101 on June 15th at 7:00 p.m. There will be a Q & A period with New York Health Act author, the Honorable Dick Gottfried. Register here.
Your State Senator and Assembly member need to hear that access to healthcare is a problem for people in your congregation and that the New York Health Care Act is needed by their constituents. If you're unsure how to contact them, you can find their phone number and other contact information at https://www.nypirg.org/repfinder/
Jesus healed people with no charge. New York has the resources to make medical care available to everyone. Let's do what we can to make that happen.
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Stop the U.S. and Israeli militaries from being further enmeshed
(Mennonite Action) Section 224 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed committee, paving the way for collaboration and shared data between the U.S. and Israel militaries in new, dangerous, and unprecedented ways. The proposition, titled “United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative,” reduces transparency in U.S. support of Israel's military, designates an executive agent to synchronize military and tech efforts between the two countries, and advances the violent collaboration beyond what's been status quo.
Because the proposition has advanced to the House floor, we all must work together to pressure our representatives to introduce a new amendment stripping it from the bill, to strike section 224 on the floor, or vote against the NDAA if section 224 is not removed.
Please take a moment today to write your representatives and demand the U.S.-Israel military industrial complex is not expanded further.
| | United Ministry of Aurora | | |
A Day of Learning and Inspiration at United Ministry of Aurora
Last Thursday was a busy and engaging day at the United Ministry of Aurora, featuring presentations that explored both the universal language of music and the evolving status of women in Afghanistan.
The afternoon began with a presentation by Dr. Laura Campbell, a Colgate University music professor, Aurora resident and member of the United Ministry of Aurora. Dr. Campbell spoke about the important role music plays in everyday life, noting that even simple traditions such as singing “Happy Birthday” help connect people and enrich their experiences.
She also introduced the audience to the fascinating world of flutes, explaining how different types produce distinct sounds. Using an impressive collection of flutes, Dr. Campbell demonstrated the unique tones and musical qualities of each instrument.
Later in the day, Masih Ghazanfari shared insights into the changing role of women in Afghanistan. He explained that during the 1970s, Afghan women could attend universities, pursue careers, and wear Western-style clothing. Today, however, women face severe restrictions, including limitations on education and movement. In many cases, women may not leave their homes without a male escort and are required to wear a hijab.
Ghazanfari also shared his own remarkable journey. He came to the United States through the United Nations Unaccompanied Refugee Minor Program. Along with his brother and another Afghan youth, he was welcomed as a foster child by Rev. Blom. Last April, Ghazanfari became a U.S. citizen, and just last month he graduated from Syracuse University. He is scheduled to leave next week for Morocco, where he will continue his studies in international relations.
The presentations offered attendees an opportunity to learn about both the power of music to bring people together and the challenges facing people around the world today.
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Young Heroes Lead Celebration Sunday
On Sunday, Onondaga Hill Presbyterian Church celebrated its annual Celebration Sunday, a special service led by the church's children and youth. This year's theme was "Heroes," highlighting the many ways people can make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Throughout the service, the young participants took leadership roles, sharing readings, prayers, and messages that reflected the importance of courage, kindness, and service. The program recognized heroes of all kinds—from those who serve in their communities and professions to the everyday heroes who teach, help, care for, and encourage others.
A special prayer captured the spirit of the day:
"Thank You for heroes of all kinds—the ones in capes, the ones in uniforms, and the everyday heroes who help, teach, care, and love us well. Thank You especially for the children leading us today and for the joy they bring to our worship."
The prayer also reminded the congregation that heroism can be found in simple acts of kindness, helping a friend, sharing love, and doing what is right. Worshippers were encouraged to follow the example of Jesus, whose life demonstrated the greatest expression of love and service.
Celebration Sunday provided an uplifting opportunity for the congregation to recognize the gifts of its young people and reflect on the many ways ordinary people can be heroes every day.
| | WE LOVE A PARADE: The sun came out for the annual Marcellus Olde Home Days parade on Saturday, June 6. Marcellus First Presbyterian Church participated in the parade with a festive float featuring the church’s iconic steeple. “This is God’s garden,” the float proclaimed, noting that although there are different petals, all belong here. Other messages were “Grow in Faith,” “Walk in Love” and “Together in Christ.” Designers, builders and walkers were, from left: Robin Winoski, Helen Stevens, Tom O’Neil, Deb Swankey, Joanna Bogden-Fyles, Evelyn LeCates and Dan Welch. Other church members involved were Charlie Smith, George LaCates, Sharon Hunter, Debbie Quick and Mary Barner. | |
This Pride Month, take some time to explore insightful books from Westminster John Knox Press that uplift LGBTQIA+ voices, deepen our understanding of inclusive ministry, and help congregations grow in welcome and justice.
Whether you're a pastor, educator, or an ally who wants to learn more, these resources can support faithful conversations, preaching, and discipleship rooted in God’s expansive love.
Explore WJK's Pride collection here
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Wee Kirk Conference 2026
October 12–14 at Laurelville Retreat Center, Mt. Pleasant, PA
Registration is open for Wee Kirk 2026. This conference is for church leaders of smaller congregations — pastors, session members, deacons, committee members, and anyone involved in leading the ministry of their congregation.
Wee Kirk is a gathering of church leaders for education, renewal, and fellowship. Its purpose is to inspire, equip, motivate, and encourage small churches and to provide rest and refreshment for pastors and church leaders like YOU!
Small church leaders play a critical role in the faithful work of God’s kingdom, and Wee Kirk is an invaluable means of support, learning, innovation, and encouragement for you.
Learn more and register at wee-kirk-ne.org.
Conference brochure
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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.) | | |
Housing as a ‘fundamental right’
Damon E. Thompson of Local Initiatives Support Corporation addresses the Faith-Based Development Summit
During last week’s Faith-Based Development Summit, Detroit-based Damon E. Thompson, the senior director of national housing strategic initiatives for the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), talked about housing being “a fundamental right.”
“No one wakes up and says, ‘I want to be homeless,’” Thompson said during a plenary session of the day-long conference. “I am passionate about preserving housing.”
He described a “crisis of affordability” in housing in cities across the nation, where the median price for a single-family home last year was $422,000. There’s also the economic plight of cost-burdened renters, who numbered more than 22 million in 2023.
There’s currently a deficit of more than 7 million affordable and available rental homes, Thompson said, but “out of crisis comes opportunity.”
Continue reading...
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The religious roots of North Korea’s Kim dynasty
Jonathan Cheng’s 'Korean Messiah,' a landmark history of North Korea, begins with the story of a Presbyterian missionary named Moffett
In 2013, as he was settling into his position as Seoul bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal, Jonathan Cheng asked himself a question — one that would end up guiding the next decade of his life and work. That question was: How did North Korea come to be this way?
After logging hundreds of hours of research and spending 10 years gathering narratives and details and names, Cheng shared his answer with the world— all 768 pages of it. His book "Korean Messiah," published on April 14, illuminates the threads that weave together the stories of a 19th century Presbyterian missionary and the young Kim Il Sung, who grew to become the “god-king” of North Korea. Described by Publishers Weekly in its starred review as “a fascinating account of the deep intertwining of religion and politics,” "Korean Messiah" draws connections between the Presbyterian presence in Korea at the dawn of the 20th century and the development of North Korea’s cult of personality that idolizes its founder, Kim Il Sung.
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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