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707 Main St. - PO Box 225 - Rochester, IN 46975
Phone: 574-223-5678 Fax: 1-888-215-6219
Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 8-12 & 1-5 Closed Friday
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On Saturday, September 17th, our Wabash Valley Assembly of Presbyterians did what we do best in community: celebrate and learn from one another!
- Led by Moderator David Smook we wrapped our work in worship, focusing on reconciliation through the words of the Belhar Confession, song, celebrating at the Lord's Table, and heard the Word from one another in Bible study.
- A Prezi presentation led by Sarah Sanderson-Doughty "bearing new fruit" along the continuing and transformative Joshua Journey:
- Separated the Presbytery and Geneva Center operations.
- Downsized the Presbytery office to 707 Main Street in Rochester.
- Facilitated remote work by shifting from paper to accessible electronic records, still in process.
- Revised office staffing to one full-time office coordinator, Vicki Dreibelbis.
- Recruited a presbytery staff leader skilled in both visioning and connecting with people and resources.
- Affirmed the bridging role of Stated Clerk Linda Long and remote work of Financial Consultant Eric Herzog.
- Reduced operational expenses more than 11% below budget in spite of costs of severance benefits, moving, and search process.
- Crafted a "nourished by the living waters of Jesus Christ" logo to keep before us our shared mission as presbytery.
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Jennifer Burns Lewis was commissioned as our Visioning & Connecting Leader, and shared her experiences gleaned from going out to engage with people in congregations around the presbytery.
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Sarah Bishop, Mike Munson, Sarah Sanderson-Doughty
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222nd GA Commissioner
RE Mike Munson, Deer Creek PC
(Photo complements of TE Chuck Compton)
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and Sandy Carlson told of their personal experiences at the June General Assembly, and briefly outlined GA actions coming to presbyteries for votes to approve or disapprove.
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Alan Griffin introduced new brochure to explain per capita, and Eric Herzog summarized financial report for Fiscal 2016 that ended June 30th.
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Jan Sandos introduced each nominee for presbytery work and all were elected with no nominations from the floor:
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- Moderator of Assembly: Sarah Sanderson-Doughty
- Moderator of Council: David Smook
- COM: Louis Sandos, Toby Mueller, David Lawrence, Catherine Moran, Adi Veenendaal
- COR: Martha Flora, Arlene Quinn, Kathy Staddon
- PJC: Jim Yackel, Ruby Kleymann, Jamie Miller
- SMT: Marilou Limbach, John Van Nuys
- Synod Commissioner: Paul Myhre
- Personnel: Lucy Rupe, Bill Kleymann, Marcia-Smith Wood, Jeff Cover
- CPM: Chuck Compton, Pat Reef, Theda McBryde
- Ordination Reader: Maria Rutland
- Council: Michael Lyle
- Nominating Committee: Lyle Ewing, Marilou Limbach, Nancy Brinklow
- Congregations shared stories of joint ministry, celebrations and supporting one another:
- Rick Ryan told story of Elston sharing ministry in relationship with Bethany for a few years and now Memorial in Dayton are joining them in some events.
- Mary Lou Crowley told of Hammond's study of Islam and a multicultural event with the Islamic neighbors to get to know one another better.
- Rebecca Kuiken told of working toward inter racial relationships with neighboring African American pastors in Elkhart and the congregational book study of Waking Up White by Debby Irving.
- Donna Enerson spoke of newly ordained pastor Mike Lyle preaching a well-received, energetic sermon to the Rossville ministers gathered for a community event.
- Jeff Brown illustrated his stories of tornado destruction in Kokomo in recent weeks with photos and statistics, as well as preparations already underway with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for a presbytery-wide workday in October to help begin the rebuilding process.
- Council moderator Jill Kitowski lifted out the recommendation from COM and Council to increase the presbytery minimum effective salary for full time teaching elders to $40,110 and for CREs to $32,088; Assembly voted its approval.
- Consistent with the focus on reconciliation, the seventy-one present contributed $582 to the PC(USA) Peace & Global Witness efforts.
- Assembly was adjourned with prayers for healing, consolation to those grieving, celebration of 175-year-old congregation, birth of a child, and new pastors among our congregations.
Next Presbytery Assembly meeting is November 15, 2016, at 10 am EST, hosted by First Presbyterian Church of Elkhart, 200 E Beardsley Ave, Elkhart, IN 46514
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2016 PER CAPITA
$39.38 total
General Assembly - $7.12
Synod of Lincoln Trails - $3.81
Presbytery of Wabash Valley - $28.45
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Save the Dates
2016 COUNCIL
Thursday & Friday, October 6-7
Council Retreat - Geneva Center
Tuesday, December 6 - Rochester, Community PC
2016 ASSEMBLY
Tuesday, November 15 -
Elkhart, First Presbyterian Church
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Commissioned to Validated Ministry Available to
Serve Communion
Jill Kitowski (219) 325-0039 jill2536@comcast.net
David Abbott (574) 234-2414
Carrie Munson (574) 721-5225
Michael Shurn (574) 946-3851 judge66@pulaskicounty.in.gov |
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PRAYERS of the PRESBYTERY
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 We know you have made this day and have filled it with whatever gifts we need to live Christ's faith, the Gospel of salvation. In his faith we hear your call to transition from what is to what you would make of us. And so we pray especially for congregations in transition; that they may trust your strength in what may appear to be a time of their weakness; that they may be alert to the possibilities you promote among them; that together we may celebrate your leadership which gathers and inspires mere humans to holy communities of witness and service. Calling us all to transition from looking back to looking ahead for your kingdom, may your holy vision direst us to boldly run the race you set before us with Christ's faith in us. To Him be the glory. Amen.
prayer from Rev. Stanley Kessler, Honorably Retired
Please pray for.... - Peru First Presbyterian Church
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- Rev. Anna Parkinson, Member at Large, and family as they welcome new arrival, baby Daniel.
- Rev. Jamie Miller, Sunnyside Presbyterian Church South Bend, as he recovers from knee surgery.
- RE John and Ann Bingaman, who have served the presbytery in many roles over the years, prayers of healing for John and Ann for strength as she supports John.
- The Rev. Jack Hess, Honorably Retired, as he continues to struggle with health concerns and other major life changes.
AMEN!
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Nourished by the living waters of Jesus Christ, we awaken, enliven and enhance worshiping communities to courageously extend their branches and bear new fruit in the spirit.
-The Mission Statement of the Presbytery of Wabash Valley
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Thank you for your ministry and your service... - September 22, 1996 - The Rev. Ruby Kleymann, Member at Large
- September 22, 1996 - The Rev. Toby Mueller, First Presbyterian Church Valparaiso
- September 23, 2006 - CRE Jene McVay, Milligan Memorial Presbyterian Church Crawfordsville
- September 24, 1967 - The Rev. David Detamore, Honorably Retired
- September 24, 1989 - The Rev. William Haworth, Garrett Presbyterian Church
- September 27, 1992 - The Rev. Michael Landon, Member at Large
- September 28, 1986 - The Rev. Stephen Braden, Honorably Retired
If you have been omitted or your information is incorrect please accept my apology. Help to update our records by sending your current information to vicki@ourpresbytery.org.
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Congregational Happenings
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"Operation Backpack"
During the last twelve years while children and their parents have been preparing to go to school, First Presbyterian Church of Monticello has been hard at work preparing as well. The church contacts the schools in White County to find out what supplies their students are required to have for the up-coming school year. The church then calls out to its friends, members and local businesses for the items that are needed - pencils, pens, scissors, crayons, colored pencils, folders, backpack, etc.
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Monticello First 2016 Backpack Program
Photo complements of Monticello First
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The church responds to the student's needs enthusiastically! The Sunday before school starts, First Presbyterian holds "Operation Backpack". Over forty volunteers, young and old alike, assist in handing out backpacks and filling them with the required supplies their school wants them to have! Every year the number grows larger and larger. This year 270 backpacks and supplies were handed out! It's a ministry that is greatly appreciated by the people in White County, and it is a ministry that brings people of all ages at First Presbyterian Church together to share the care and love our Savior Jesus Christ has for his "children".
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You are invited to a Special Worship Service
At Peru First Presbyterian Church Sunday, October 2, 2016
10:30am
World-wide Communion Sunday
Celebration of the Partnership between
First Presbyterian Church PCUSA
And
Mthandiza Church CCAP  
Meet Rev. Henry Masina pastor of Mthandiza
(preaching)
And Youth Leader Franklin Gwengwe
Who are visiting from Malawi, Africa
Gala Reception to Follow Worship
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Stop by and connect with Jennifer at convenient coffee shops all over the presbytery:
Here are the last two for September:
Thursday, September 22: 10 am- 2 pm- The French Press Coffee Co., 110 W. Laporte St, Plymouth Thursday, September 29: 10 am-2 pm- Spill the Beans, 7992 Broadway, Merrillville Coffee office hours for October: Wednesday, October 5: 10am-2:00 p.m. (eastern) - KenapocoMocha 101 E. Second St., North Manchester
Tuesday, October 11: 10am-2:00 p.m.(eastern) - Intersection Coffee Shop 301 E. Linden Ave. Logansport Thursday, October 20: 10 am-2;00 p.m (eastern) - Sacred Grounds 724 Wabash Avenue, Lafayette Tuesday, October 25: 10am- 2:00 p.m. (central) - Sip Coffee House 11 N. Court St., Crown Point And know that you can always set another time to get together. Feel free to contact Jennifer at Jennifer@ourpresbytery.org or 574-653-1003.
I know she hopes to meet each and everyone of you as she travels around the presbytery hearing about your dreams and visions for the church of today.
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RETREATS
WORKSHOPS
WEBINARS
AND EVENTS
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Upcoming Workshops:
- Evaluating Your Congregation's Communications and Welcome - Thursday, September 29
- Reframing Money Talk - Thursday, October 13
- Getting to Know Your Community - Tuesday, October 18
- Developing and Effective Community Ministry - Thursday, October 20
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CO-OPERATIVE MISSION TRIP WEEKEND
When: Friday evening October 14 through Sunday noon October 16
Where: Geneva Center, INC. Rochester, IN
What: Undertake outdoor work projects to help Geneva Center and
indoor mission projects to help social agencies in Rochester.
Why: - To further God's work in our world through our hands and help;
- To teach and model for our youth Christian commitment in
action;
- To fellowship and enjoy Geneva Center's wooded campus.
Who: Anyone who wants to participate. Children, youth and adults are
welcome!
How much: $125 per person for 2 nights, 4 hot meals at Geneva Center
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TIME: FRIEND? or FOE?
Women's Day Retreat, Saturday, October 15
at Geneva Center's Lakeview Cabin 5282 N Old US Hwy 31 Rochester, IN. 9:30 a.m. register and settle in, 10-4 program, with The Rev. Carol McDonald. Lunch is included in the Geneva Center Dining room. All facilities are wheelchair accessible. $35 per person, registration needed in advance by September 30. Space is limited.
Questions? Contact Mary Rasp Elkhart First Presbyterian Church 574.361.8459 (MSR cell/text)
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****SAVE THE DATES****
Register Today For 2016 Events at Geneva Center Inc.
- September 25th, 2016 - 2 - 4 pm - Fall Open House - Join us this Sunday afternoon and enjoy all the beauty that Geneva Center has to offer. Walk the Labyrinth, hike the trails, take a guided tour and meet members of our Board of Directors. Refreshments will be provided in the Dining Room.
- October 11 - 14, 2016 - Stained Glass Workshop - Join us for 3 nights, 10 meals and learn the fine art of stained glass. You will be able to make your own piece to take home with you. All tools and instruction for the workshop are included. Prices are $450.00 for a single room, $390.00 for a double room and $ 350.00 for anyone who would like to commute. All prices are per person. Sign up online by September 27th.
- October 13-16, 2016 - Fall Into Place: Uncover The Real You Retreat- A retreat in the true sense of the word, a space to step away from the world, away from electronics, noise, worry, anxiety, and all the troublesome aspects of life during the best time of year-fall! Step into a magical space created by Michelle Pendergrass. We will provide you with nourishing, wholesome food cooked over an open fire for your physical body; and spirit. Sign up online by September 29th.
- October 28-30, 2016 - Knitting/Crochet UFO Retreat - Gather your supplies and join other knitters and crocheters as we work on those UnFinished Objects and gifts for the upcoming holidays. Learn from other enthusiasts, enjoy the freedom from distractions and pick up a few new skills. More information is located on our website. Please register online by October 14th.
- Oct. 30, 2016 4-7 pm- Fall Harvest Celebration - For all ages. Youth Groups welcome.$5.00 per person. Join us for a hayride, pumpkin bowling, hotdogs, s'mores, games and more!Please sign up online or call our main office to let us know how many people you will be bringing by October 23rd.
If you have any questions please call our main office at 574-223-6915 or
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United Faith and Grace Presbyterian churches would like to invite you to join us for a day with Dr. Dennis Bickers, exploring The Healthy Small Church on Saturday, October 22.
Hosted at Grace Presbyterian Church,
1811 Fairhill Rd., Fort Wayne, IN
A flyer with more information and details regarding registration is attached.
We hope you'll join us and help spread the word!
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The Art of Transitional Ministry
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Are your teaching and ruling elders asking about interim training?
MALT Weeks 1 and 2 ("The Art of Transitional Ministry") will be held October 31 - November 4, 2016.
- Registration is now electronic and through eventbrite.
- We now accept credit cards (as well as checks) for payments.
- A signature is no longer required by COM moderators or EPs
- The event brochure is attached
- You can also find more details here
MALT has an outstanding faculty. This fall, facilitators will include SanDawna Ashley, Mitch Coggin, James Gale, Felicia Scott, Laura Sherwood, Beth Wagner and Mary Wright.
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Deadline is Friday, September 30th for Board of Pensions agreement:
Yes, this is something new this year. Just a reminder to each Session that as "employer" of all church personnel, including an installed or covenanted pastor, the deadline for notifying Board of Pensions of the Board of Pension benefits choices is due by Friday, September 30th- in nine days. The Board assures us that they have been in contact with each congregation/employer to remind and assist with the process of creating an "employer agreement" online by the deadline. For answers to questions, first check the Board website at www.pensions.org. As you might imagine, the Board staff is under great demands right now with changes to the benefits plan and their staffing model, as well as a new website for registration. Start early, and keep trying if you run into challenges. You may ask for help from Steve Quinlan, 1-765-472-2962, Eric Herzog, 1-317-361-2632 or Linda Long, 1-219-926-7098 if you can't get what you need through the Board's website or 1-800- 773-7752.
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Coordinator of Ministries to Children and Youth
The Presbyterian Church of La Porte is seeking a full time Coordinator of Ministries to Children and Youth. The Presbyterian Church of La Porte is passionate about sharing God's love in Jesus Christ with young people and is looking for a leader who can work with a dedicated team to reach its vision. This person should have a sincere love for young people and a desire to partner with the church family to create a place where children and youth can belong, be heard, be needed and be God's. Interested candidates should be familiar with or be willing to learn about the Presbyterian (PCUSA) tradition. A college degree in theology or Education is preferred. Resumes can be sent to cymsearch@yourhomechurch.org.
The Presbyterian Church of La Porte is a progressive family church of 250 members, committed to calling people to a deep relationship with Jesus Christ and expressing Christ's compassion in the world. La Porte is a small city, located in Northwest Indiana, 50 miles southeast of Chicago.
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First Presbyterian Church of Lebanon no longer uses glass communion cups. We have around 300, mix  of short and tall, we would like to give to any church that could use them, they have been in storage for some time and we are clearing out. If interested, please contact Nancy Turner in the church office 765-482-5959 or fpclebanon@att.net
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Upcoming Events and Meetings
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Thursday, September 22
- 10 am - Coffee Office Hours with Jennifer - The French Press 110 W Laporte St., Plymouth (map)
- 10 am - CRE Training Team - Presbytery Office 707 Main St., Rochester (map)
Friday, September 23
- 10 am - Leadership Team Meeting - Presbytery Office 707 Main St., Rochester (map)
Thursday, September 29
- 10 am - Coffee Office Hours with Jennifer - Spill the Beans Gourmet Coffee 7992 Broadway, Merrillville (map)
Tuesday, October 4- 10 am - Nominating Committee (Go-To-Meeting)
Thursday, October 6 - 10 am Commission on Ministry - Bethlehem Presbyterian Church 5588 N SR 25 Logansport (map)
- 10 am - Commission on Preparation for Ministry - Bethlehem Presbyterian Church 5588 N SR 25 Logansport (map)
- 5 pm - Council Retreat - Geneva Center, INC - 5282 N Old US Hwy 31 Rochester (map)
Friday, October 7 - 8 am - Noon - Council Retreat - Geneva Center 5282 N Old US Hwy 31 Rochester (map)
All meetings & events posted on the PWV Calendar are eastern time (ET) unless noted otherwise. Please call 574-223-5678 or visit http://www.ourpresbytery.org/calendar.htm for more information regarding meetings and events.
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Wabash Valley Officers, Staff and Consultant Contact Information
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