901 Allegheny Avenue Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15233 Phone: (412) 323-1400 Fax: (412) 323-2256 www.pghpresbytery.org

December 2020

Beloved partners in Christ’s ministry,

Our presbytery meets (by Zoom) two weeks after Thanksgiving, just when many infectious disease experts predict a new peak – on top of our current surge – in COVID cases. Many of our congregations have closed their doors again on Sunday mornings in order to minimize risks of COVID transmission as the outbreak intensifies. Those that remain open are strengthening their commitments to distancing, masking, screening, and sanitizing.

We are doing everything possible to be ready for what may be coming, bracing ourselves for the impending onslaught as best we can, erecting all the barricades at our disposal. We may not agree on how big the storm will be, or when it will arrive, or how much our mitigation efforts matter. But we all want to be as prepared as possible for whatever lies ahead.

Might this anticipation of something unknown, yet sure to come, help us grasp better an appropriate Advent mindset? This year we can’t ease gently into Advent with our cherished traditions of hanging the greens, singing the hymns, gathering around the wreath, and lighting the candles. Likewise, the coming of the Lord is far from gentle; it is more like the prophetic note in the classic hymn, “Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord, he is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored” (a reference to Revelation 14:17-20).

Annie Dillard – one of Pittsburgh’s great gifts to the arts world, alongside the likes of Fred Rogers, August Wilson, Mary Cassatt, Andy Warhol, and Art Blakey – suggests that meeting the Lord is anything but a bed of roses. In Teaching a Stone to Talk, she asks those who go to church, “Does anyone have the foggiest idea of what sort of power we blithely invoke? …. We should all be wearing crash helmets. Ushers should issue life preservers and signal flares; they should lash us to our pews.”

The One for whom we wait and hope does not always come gently. For a fundamentally disordered world, revolution may be the only cure. Bastions of the status quo are no safer when Messiah returns than they were when he came two thousand years ago. Economic systems get upended like the temple traders’ tables. Those on the margins get prime seats at the Master’s banquet. The privileged tremble while the disenfranchised rejoice.

Are we ready for this Messiah to arrive among us? Perhaps Advent anticipation is best expressed by bracing ourselves for what lies ahead in God’s program, however unexpected and disconcerting it may be.

Getting things set right may require disrupting the current order, just as COVID has done. Presbytery meetings reinvented. Church Advent schedules suspended. The world upended. Perhaps God is getting us ready for a brand new thing. Can we perceive it? (Isaiah 43:19) Can we receive it?

Yours in awaiting our Lord’s coming,

Sheldon Sorge General Minister

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Presbyterian Mission

Presbyterian Peacemaking Program

SEEKING TO BE FAITHFUL TOGETHER: Guidelines for Presbyterians in Times of Disagreement

Give them a hearing… listen before we answer (John 7:51 and Proverbs 18:13)

1. Treat each other respectfully so as to build trust, believing thatwe all desire to be faithful to Jesus the Christ;• we will keep our conversations and communications open for

candid and forthright exchange,• we will not ask questions or make statements in a way that will

intimidate or judge others.

2. Learn about various positions on the topic of disagreement.

3. State what we think we heard and ask for clarification beforeresponding, in an effort to be sure we understand each other.

Speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15)

4. Share our concerns directly with individuals or groups withwhom we have disagreements in a spirit of love and respect inkeeping with Jesus’ teachings.

5. Focus on ideas and suggestions instead of questioning people’smotives, intelligence or integrity;• we will not engage in name-calling or labeling of others prior to,

during or following the discussion.

6. Share our personal experiences about the subject of disagreementso that others may more fully understand our concerns.

Maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3)

7. Indicate where we agree with those of other viewpoints as well aswhere we disagree.

8. Seek to stay in community with each other though the discussionmay be vigorous and full of tension;

• we will be ready to forgive and be forgiven.

9. Follow these additional guidelines when we meet indecision-making bodies:

• urge people of various points of view to speak and promise tolisten to these positions seriously

• seek conclusions informed by our points of agreement;• be sensitive to the feelings and concerns of those who do not agree

with the majority and respect their rights of conscience;• abide by the decision of the majority, and if we disagree with it and

wish to change it, work for that change in ways that are consistentwith these Guidelines.

10. Include our disagreement in our prayers, not praying for thetriumph of our viewpoints, but seeking God’s grace to listenattentively, to speak clearly and to remain open to the visionGod holds for us all.

In a spirit of trust and love, we promise we will…

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Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of Pittsburgh To Be Conducted via Zoom

December 10, 2020, at 1:00 p.m. Rev. Charissa Howe (Moderator), Ruling Elder Mark Roth (Sr. Vice Moderator)

Pittsburgh Presbytery is a covenant community † formed by the triune God; † called to share together in the ongoing life & ministry of Jesus Christ; † proclaiming & demonstrating the Gospel publicly in word & deed in the power of the Holy Spirit.

PRESBYTERY MEETING DOCKET Gathering for the Work of the Presbytery

Opening Prayer and Welcome from the Moderator Seating of Corresponding Members Adoption of the Docket and Consent Agenda and Announcement of the Intention to Introduce New Business Report on Freedom Rising Initiative

Time of Devotions and Prayer -- Rev. Dr. Sheldon Sorge Recognition of Lazarus Fund Volunteers Offering to Benefit the Lazarus Fund and Hunger Fund

Attending to our Corporate and Ecclesiastical Business Executive Committee Report Stated Clerk’s Report

Report on Safe and Creative Ways to Worship During a Pandemic Hearing from Our Staff, Commissions, and Committees

General Minister’s Report Committee on Nominations Report Committee on Representation Report Commission on Ministry Report Commission on Preparation for Ministry Report

Going Forth by God’s Grace to Serve New and Old Business Report from the Roll Clerk and Closing Prayer

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CONSENT AGENDA December 10, 2020

All consent items are listed below and are the same as the Consent Motion items which appear in the following reports, and which are indicated by an asterisk. At the time the motion to approve the Consent Agenda is made, any commissioner may request the removal of any item from the Consent Agenda for debate by the body. If an item is removed from the Consent Agenda, it will be considered at the regularly docketed time for the report of the group to which it belongs.

Items for Consent Action

Report of the Minute Reading Committee • Report of the Regular Meeting Minute Reading Committee

Matters from the Executive Committee • Item 2 – Waiver of Six-Year Limitation on Terms – Chartiers Valley UPC• Item 3 – Waiver of Six-Year Limitation on Terms – Sharon Community PC• Item 4 – Election of Members of the Nominating Committee• Item 6 – Finance Reports – August and September 2020• Item 7 – Permission for Grant of Easement and Lease – Sixth Presbyterian Church• Item 8 – Permission for Sale of Property – First Presbyterian Church of Gibsonia

Matters from the Stated Clerk • Item 2 – Ecclesiastical Administrative Commission to Ordain or Install

Matters from the Commission on Ministry • Item 2 – Moderators• Item 3 – Temporary/Covenant/Interim Pastors• Item 4 – Letters of Reception• Item 5 – Letters of Dissolution• Item 6 – Letters of Dismissal• Item 7 – Members At-Large• Item 8 – Calls• Item 9 – Commissioned Pastors• Item 10 – Permission to Labor Outside the Bounds

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REPORT OF THE REGULAR MEETING MINUTES READING COMMITTEE (Included/approved, in the consent agenda) The regular meeting Minutes Reading Committee met on Thursday, September 24, 2020, at Pittsburgh Presbytery Center immediately following the regularly stated Presbytery meeting, in which only a core group met in person to host a virtual gathering for the wider presbytery, and read the minutes of said meeting. A quorum was present.

P A E P A E Ruling Elders Teaching Elders Carla Campbell X Eric Dennis X Cathy Nelson X Sheldon Sorge X Mark Roth X Charissa Howe X

The Committee recommends approval of the Minutes of the regularly stated Presbytery Meeting Thursday, September 24, 2020, at the Pittsburgh Presbytery Center and virtual meeting. For the Committee: The Rev. Eric Ewing Dennis, Chair. The next meeting of the Minutes Reading Committee will be held on December 10, 2020, at the Pittsburgh Presbytery Center immediately following the next regular virtual meeting of Presbytery expected to be hosted by a core group from the center if permissible. Any commissioner present in person at such meeting is invited to attend.

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Executive Committee Report December 10, 2020

Regular Meeting of the Executive Committee Due to the on-going global Covid-19 pandemic, Pittsburgh Presbytery’s Executive Committee met via Zoom on Tuesday, November 17, 2020. The Co-chair, Rev. Carol Divens Roth opened the meeting with prayer.

Items for Information

1. Emergency Assistance to Bethesda United Presbyterian Church (Pittsburgh)After receiving reports of severe, on-going vandalism at Bethesda United PresbyterianChurch, Pittsburgh, the Executive Committee authorized an expenditure of $10,000 toassist the congregation with emergency needs caused by the vandalism, including theinstallation of a video surveillance system and the satisfaction of its insurance deductible.2. Election of Members of the Ecclesiastical CommitteeThe Executive Committee elected the following individuals to the EcclesiasticalCommittee:

Rev. Dr. Randy Bush (Class of 2023B) Ruling Elder Laura Markowitz (Class of 2023A)

The Ecclesiastical Committee is still seeking to fill up to two positions on the committee and is especially interested in having a male ruling elder join the committee.

2. Election of Co-chairs of Personnel SubcommitteeThe Executive Committee elected Ruling Elder Bob Crynack and Rev. Dr. Cathie Smithas co-chairs of the personnel subcommittee for 2021.3. Approval of Pastoral Staff Housing Allowance Allocations for 2021The Executive Committee approved the housing allowance allocations requested by thepastoral staff for 2021.4. Formation of Manual Revision SubcommitteeAt the request of the Stated Clerk, the Executive Committee agreed to the formation of aManual Revision Subcommittee to assist the Ecclesiastical Committee with drafting arevised Manual for Pittsburgh Presbytery during 2021.

Items for Action

1. Consent MotionsThe Executive Committee recommends that the following items be approved by consent:#’s 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8.

*2. Waiver of Six-Year Limitation on Terms – Chartiers Valley United PresbyterianChurchThe Executive Committee approved and forwards to Presbytery for its approval, a waiverof the six-year limitation on terms of one elder of Chartiers Valley United PresbyterianChurch to serve an additional term beginning in 2021.*3. Waiver of Six-Year Limitation on Terms – Sharon Community PresbyterianChurchThe Executive Committee approved, and forwards to Presbytery for its approval, a waiver

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of the six-year limitation on terms for a six-month extension of current terms for the entire session (14 members) and board of deacons (9 members) of Sharon Community Presbyterian Church due to a change in election cycle. *4. Election of Members of the Nominating CommitteeThe Executive Committee approved and forwards to Presbytery for election, the followingnominees to the Nominating Committee:

Ruling Elder Sally Huber Lewis (Class of 2022A) Rev. Sharon Stewart (Class of 2023A)

The Ecclesiastical Committee is still seeking to fill positions for an elder from the South for the class of 2023A and a minister from the West for the class of 2023A and welcomes suggestions which may be submitted to the Stated Clerk. 5. Election of Member of the Nominating CommitteeThe Executive Committee approved and forwards to Presbytery for election, the followingnominee to the Nominating Committee:

Rev. Susan Rothenberg (Class of 2022A) Rev. Rothenberg’s election to the Nominating Committee requires a waiver of Presbytery Manual’s provision that “[o]rdinarily no person may serve in more than one elected position at a time” due to her concurrent service on Committee on Representation. *6. Finance Reports – August and September 2020The Executive Committee recommends Presbytery receive and file for audit thePresbytery Financial Statements for the months of August and September 2020.

*7. Permission for Grant of Easement and Lease – Sixth Presbyterian ChurchThe Executive Committee approved and forwards to presbytery for its approval therequest of Sixth Presbyterian Church for permission to grant an easement and lease toUnison, Inc. for placement of wireless communication equipment in its bell tower.*8. Permission for Sale of Property – First Presbyterian Church of GibsoniaThe Executive Committee approved and forwards to presbytery for its approval therequest of First Presbyterian Church of Gibsonia to sell its former manse for $200,000.

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Pittsburgh Presbytery Page 1Operating Fund Revenues & Expenses - Summary

August 2020

Annual Budget MTD Actual MTD Budget MTD BudgetRemaining

YTD Actual YTD Budget YTD BudgetRemaining

Revenues

Presbytery Mission Income Presbytery Mission Support 200,000 13,102 16,667 3,565 44,716 133,333 88,617 Pittsburgh Presby. Foundation 250,000 0 0 0 187,500 187,500 0 Endowment Withdrawals/Income 307,000 24,690 25,583 893 206,641 204,667 (1,974) Short-term Invest. Income 75,000 6,000 6,250 250 48,926 50,000 1,074 Other Income 45,159 23,332 3,763 (19,569) 112,822 30,106 (82,716) Total Presbytery Mission Income 877,159 67,124 52,263 (14,861) 600,605 605,606 5,001

Being the Presbytery Income Per Capita Income 777,836 17,966 25,000 7,034 576,420 600,000 23,580 Endowment Withdrawals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total Being the Presbytery Income 777,836 17,966 25,000 7,034 576,420 600,000 23,580

Total Budgeted Revenues 1,654,995 85,090 77,263 (7,827) 1,177,025 1,205,606 28,581

Expenses

Mission To Our Congregations Disciplemaking/Spirit.Growth 9,425 706 785 79 2,715 6,283 3,568 Cong.Enhancement/ACT 65,000 1,050 2,500 1,450 49,131 55,000 5,869 Pastor Ministry Accounts 12,000 27 1,000 973 881 8,000 7,119 Resourcenter Expense 1,700 187 142 (45) 572 1,133 561 Stewardship & Mission Interp. 1,250 0 104 104 0 833 833 Total Mission To Our Congregations 89,375 1,970 4,531 2,561 53,299 71,249 17,950

Mission Beyond Congregations Ecumenical Partnerships 18,100 2,417 1,508 (909) 12,833 12,067 (766) GA & Synod Per Capita Support 281,980 0 0 0 0 140,990 140,990 International Partnership 3,000 0 250 250 0 2,000 2,000 Mission Ministry Team 2,600 150 217 67 150 1,733 1,583 New Worshiping Communities 100,000 12,808 8,333 (4,475) 71,795 66,667 (5,128) Crestfield Support 120,000 0 0 0 120,000 120,000 0 Justice Ministries 11,750 322 979 657 1,768 7,833 6,065 Total Mission Beyond Congregations 537,430 15,697 11,287 (4,410) 206,546 351,290 144,744

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Pittsburgh Presbytery Page 2Operating Fund Revenues & Expenses - Summary

August 2020

Annual Budget MTD Actual MTD Budget MTD BudgetRemaining

YTD Actual YTD Budget YTD BudgetRemaining

Ecclesiastical Costs Administrative Expense 95,445 6,909 7,954 1,045 66,562 63,630 (2,932) Executive Committee Expenses 5,150 0 429 429 2,674 3,433 759 Ministry - COM & CPM 10,125 497 844 347 7,314 6,750 (564) Property Expense 68,100 10,612 5,675 (4,937) 43,347 45,400 2,053 Stated Clerk Office 3,200 0 267 267 236 2,133 1,897 Total Ecclesiastical Costs 182,020 18,018 15,169 (2,849) 120,133 121,346 1,213

Total Personnel 846,170 60,924 70,514 9,590 496,360 564,114 67,754

Total Budgeted Expenses 1,654,995 96,609 101,501 4,892 876,338 1,107,999 231,661

Presbytery Operating Budget Net Total 0 (11,519) (24,238) (12,719) 300,687 97,607 (203,080)

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Pittsburgh Presbytery Page 1Operating Fund Revenues & Expenses - Summary

September 2020

Annual Budget MTD Actual MTD Budget MTD BudgetRemaining

YTD Actual YTD Budget YTD BudgetRemaining

Revenues

Presbytery Mission Income Presbytery Mission Support 200,000 6,028 16,667 10,639 50,744 150,000 99,256 Pittsburgh Presby. Foundation 250,000 0 0 0 187,500 187,500 0 Endowment Withdrawals/Income 307,000 25,092 25,583 491 231,733 230,250 (1,483) Short-term Invest. Income 75,000 6,000 6,250 250 54,927 56,250 1,323 Other Income 45,159 8,062 3,763 (4,299) 120,884 33,869 (87,015) Total Presbytery Mission Income 877,159 45,182 52,263 7,081 645,788 657,869 12,081

Being the Presbytery Income Per Capita Income 777,836 6,536 25,000 18,464 582,956 625,000 42,044 Endowment Withdrawals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Total Being the Presbytery Income 777,836 6,536 25,000 18,464 582,956 625,000 42,044

Total Budgeted Revenues 1,654,995 51,718 77,263 25,545 1,228,744 1,282,869 54,125

Expenses

Mission To Our Congregations Disciplemaking/Spirit.Growth 9,425 0 785 785 2,715 7,069 4,354 Cong.Enhancement/ACT 65,000 2,800 2,500 (300) 51,931 57,500 5,569 Pastor Ministry Accounts 12,000 27 1,000 973 908 9,000 8,092 Resourcenter Expense 1,700 0 142 142 572 1,275 703 Stewardship & Mission Interp. 1,250 0 104 104 0 938 938 Total Mission To Our Congregations 89,375 2,827 4,531 1,704 56,126 75,782 19,656

Mission Beyond Congregations Ecumenical Partnerships 18,100 1,417 1,508 91 14,250 13,575 (675) GA & Synod Per Capita Support 281,980 140,502 70,495 (70,007) 140,502 211,485 70,983 International Partnership 3,000 2,000 250 (1,750) 2,000 2,250 250 Mission Ministry Team 2,600 0 217 217 150 1,950 1,800 New Worshiping Communities 100,000 3,844 8,333 4,489 75,639 75,000 (639) Crestfield Support 120,000 0 0 0 120,000 120,000 0 Justice Ministries 11,750 69 979 910 1,838 8,813 6,975 Total Mission Beyond Congregations 537,430 147,832 81,782 (66,050) 354,379 433,073 78,694

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Pittsburgh Presbytery Page 2Operating Fund Revenues & Expenses - Summary

September 2020

Annual Budget MTD Actual MTD Budget MTD BudgetRemaining

YTD Actual YTD Budget YTD BudgetRemaining

Ecclesiastical Costs Administrative Expense 95,445 9,318 7,954 (1,364) 75,875 71,584 (4,291) Executive Committee Expenses 5,150 0 429 429 2,674 3,863 1,189 Ministry - COM & CPM 10,125 317 844 527 7,632 7,594 (38) Property Expense 68,100 6,221 5,675 (546) 49,568 51,075 1,507 Stated Clerk Office 3,200 0 267 267 236 2,400 2,164 Total Ecclesiastical Costs 182,020 15,856 15,169 (687) 135,985 136,516 531

Total Personnel 846,170 60,575 70,514 9,939 556,936 634,628 77,692

Total Budgeted Expenses 1,654,995 227,090 171,996 (55,094) 1,103,426 1,279,999 176,573

Presbytery Operating Budget Net Total 0 (175,372) (94,733) 80,639 125,318 2,870 (122,448)

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REPORT OF THE STATED CLERK December 10, 2020

Items for Information 1. Deadline for Docket Time and Waiver Requests for February MeetingThe Ecclesiastical Committed has announced that all requests for docket time at theFebruary 25, 2021, presbytery meeting must be made to the Ecclesiastical Committeevia the Stated Clerk’s office no later than noon on Wednesday, January 27, 2021. Ifaction by the Presbytery will be requested, the full text of the motion and anyaccompanying documents (reports, rationale, etc.) must be submitted by this time as well.Requests for waivers of the six-year limitation on terms for elders and deacons aredue on this date also.The remaining deadlines for docket time and waiver requests for 2021 are as follows:

Meeting Date Deadline May 20, 2021 April 14, 2021 September 16, 2021 August 18, 2021 December 9, 2021 November 3, 2021

2. Sale of Former First Presbyterian Church of Boston PropertyThe property of the former First Presbyterian Church of Boston sold on November 20,2020, for a net after closing costs of $38,776.50.3. Special Administrative Review of Session of Community House PresbyterianChurchEarlier this year, the Stated Clerk was informed in writing of possible irregularities and/ordelinquencies by the Session of Community House Presbyterian Church. The StatedClerk followed the procedures set forth in the Manual of Pittsburgh Presbytery todetermine whether special administrative review was necessary under G-3.0108 b of theBook of Order. The specific alleged irregularities and/or delinquencies brought to theStated Clerk’s attention pertained to the session’s management of the congregation’sfinances and to its prior and ongoing relationship with the Community House LearningCenter.As set forth in the Manual, a group consisting of the Moderator, Rev. Charissa Howe, the Stated Clerk, the General Minister, Rev. Dr. Sheldon Sorge, and the co-chairs of the Executive Committee, Rev. Carol Divens Roth and Rev. Jeff Tindall, determined that special administrative review was necessary and appointed the following individuals to constitute the special administrative review team:

Ruling Elder Mary Jo Buffo Rev. Carol Divens Roth Ruling Elder Ted Mills Rev. Lee Scott Rev. Jeff Tindall

The team has begun its work and has elected Rev. Tindall as its Moderator.

4. 2020 Minutes ReadingsThe Ecclesiastical Committee will schedule the reading of congregational minutes for2020 as soon as it is safe and appropriate to do so, likely during the fall of 2021.

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5. New Clerk of Session TrainingThe Ecclesiastical Committee has scheduled New Clerk of Session Training to beconducted via Zoom on Saturday, February 6, 2021, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Items for Action 1. Consent MotionThe Stated Clerk recommends that the following items be approved by consent: # 2.*2. Ecclesiastical Administrative Commission to Ordain or Install

The Stated Clerk recommends that the Minutes of the following EcclesiasticalAdministrative Commissions be approved, and the commissions be dismissed withthanks:

Administrative Commission to Ordain and Install Kevin Vinay

VINAY The Administrative Commission elected by the Presbytery on September 24, 2020, to ordain Kevin Vinay and install him to serve as Associate Pastor at Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, comprising the Rev. Charissa Howe, Moderator, Rev. Thomas Ribar, Rev. Joshua Fisher, Ruling Elder Karen Wellman (Homestead United Presbyterian Church), and Ruling Elder David Lindberg (Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church), met by appointment on October 4, 2020, at 2:30 p.m. at Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church and via RingCentral video conference.

There being a quorum present, the Commission was convened with prayer by Rev. Howe. All things being prepared in advance, decently and in order, the Commission approved the Service of ordination and Installation and voted to proceed to the ordination and installation of Kevin Vinay according to the direction of Presbytery and the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The Commission moved to the Sanctuary and livestream at 3:00 p.m. and ordained and installed Kevin Vinay.

Rev. Howe asked the constitutional questions which the candidate answered in the affirmative. The sermon was delivered by Rev. Ribar. Rev. Dr. Mark Whitsel offered the prayer of installation. Rev. William Sukolsky offered the charge to the congregation. Rev. Fisher offered the charge to the pastor.

The minutes of the Commission were read and approved. Upon motion duly made, the Commission moved to adjourn at the conclusion of the Service of Ordination and Installation with the pronouncement of the Benediction by Rev. Vinay.

Administrative Commission to Install Rev. Caitlin Werth

WERTH The Administrative Commission elected by the Presbytery on September 24, 2020, to install the Reverend Caitlin Werth as Pastor at Waverly Presbyterian Church, comprising Rev. Charissa Howe, Moderator, Rev. Jeff Eddings, Rev. Ayana Teter, Ruling Elder Susan Matthews (Riverview Presbyterian Church), Ruling Elder Richard St. John (Community House Presbyterian Church), and Ruling Elder Gwen Vargas, (Waverly Presbyterian Church), met by appointment on September 27, 2020, at 2:30 pm via Zoom video conference.

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There being a quorum present, the Commission was convened with prayer by Rev. Howe. All things being prepared in advance, decently and in order, the Commission approved the Service of Installation and voted to proceed to the installation of Rev. Caitlin Werth according to the direction of Presbytery and the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The Commission moved to the livestreamed service at 3:00 p.m. and installed Rev. Caitlin Werth as Pastor of Waverly Presbyterian Church.

Rev. Howe asked the constitutional questions which the candidate answered in the affirmative. The sermon was delivered by Rev. Dr. Peters. Rev. Steven Werth offered the prayer of installation and Rev. Teter offered the charge to the congregation. Rev. Eddings offered the charge to the pastor.

The minutes of the Commission were read and approved. Upon motion duly made, the Commission moved to adjourn at the conclusion of the Service of Installation with the pronouncement of the Benediction by Rev. Werth.

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Committee on Nominations

Report to Presbytery December 2020

The Standing Committee on Nominations is nominating Rev. Rebecca DePoe, Mt. Nebo United and Glenshaw Valley Presbyterian Churches, for Senior Vice-Moderator in 2021.

*********************************************************************************************************

The Standing Committee on Nominations is placing the following nominations for election at the December meeting.

Standing Committees/Commissions:

Executive Committee The Rev. Jane Esterline, Plum Creek (2023B) – East The Rev. Erin Davenport, PTS (2023A) – East The Rev. Dr. Trent Hancock, Glenshaw (2023A) – North The Rev. Emily Cooper, Covenant Community (2023A) – West Elder Darlene Rushing, Hot Metal (2023B) – South Elder Bob Brown, Southminster (2023A) -South

Commission on Ministry The Rev. Dr. Don Dawson, HR (2023B) – North The Rev. Tara Thompson, Southminster (2023B) – South Elder Hill Jordan, Valley View, (2023B) - East Elder Judy Shipley, First, Pittsburgh (2023A) – South

Commission on Preparation for Ministry The Rev. Patrice Fowler-Searcy, East Liberty (2023B) – East The Rev. Aaron Teter, All Saints CFW (2023A) – East The Rev. Rebecca DePoe, Mt. Nebo (2023B) – West Elder Tom Cox, Hot Metal Bridge (2023A) - South

Foundation The Rev. Dr. Wayne Peck, HR (2023B) – North Elder Frances Irvin, East Liberty (2023B) - East Elder Stephanie Simmons, Grace Memorial (2023B) – East Elder Margaret Zabo, Bower Hill (2023B) – West

Synod Permanent Judicial Commission (PJC) The Rev. Dr. John Welch, At-Large (2026)

The Committee on Nominations is grateful to all who have submitted names of interested ministers and elders to serve on the committees and commissions of Presbytery. Any member of Presbytery who has an interest in being considered for nomination to any Standing Committee or Council, or who knows of any other person who has such an interest, is strongly encouraged to relay the names and contact information for suggested nominees to the Committee on Nominations in care of cnelson@pghpresbytery.org . Information concerning the functions of the committees of Presbytery may be found in The Manual of Pittsburgh Presbytery available under Stated Clerk Resources on the Presbytery website, www.pghpresbytery.org.

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REPORT OF THE COMMISSION ON MINISTRY TO PRESBYTERY

December 1, 2020 Meeting

The committee met via Zoom on December 1, 2020. A quorum was present.

Part I - Items for Information 1. Positions Available For the information of members of the Presbytery, the

Commission lists the following positions within the Presbytery that are thought to be available. If the position is for pastor or associate pastor, listing here indicates that the Ministry Information Form has been filed with Louisville and the church is receiving PIF's:

Pastor Bethany Presbyterian Church, Bridgeville Pastor Bull Creek United Presbyterian Church, Tarentum Pastor Shadyside Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh Associate Pastor Hebron United Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh Co-Pastor Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh Co-Pastor The Open Door Presbyterian Church, Pittsburgh Full Time Temporary Pastor (P/T negotiable) McKeesport Presbyterian Church Part Time Temporary Pastor (16-18 hrs.) First Presbyterian Church, Castle Shannon Part Time Temporary Pastor (24-27 hrs.) Hebron Presbyterian Church, Clinton Part Time Temporary Pastor (8-10 hrs.) Mosaic Community PC, Pittsburgh

2. Completion of Temporary Contracts

The completion of the contract between the Rev. Dr. Kristin Widrich and Pleasant HillsCommunity Presbyterian Church effective August 31, 2020.

The completion of the contract between the Rev. Dr. James Bruce Lancaster andWestminster Presbyterian Church effective December 31, 2020.

The completion of the commission between the Oakdale United Presbyterian Churchand Nancy Kay Stanny effective December 31, 2020.

3. Pastor Emeritus

The Rev. Dr. William Gracey was named Pastor Emeritus of Sunset Hills UnitedPresbyterian Church on March 25, 2020.

Part II - Items for Action

1. Consent Motions

The Commission recommends that the following recommendations be adopted byconsent: #’s 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10

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*2. Moderators

The appointment of the Rev. Karen Younger as moderator of the Clinton United Presbyterian Church effective October 19, 2020.

The appointment of the Rev. Steven Bomely as moderator of the Universal United Presbyterian Church effective December 1, 2020.

The appointment of the Rev. Dr. Joleen (Jo) Forrest as moderator of the Westminster Presbyterian Church effective January 1, 2021.

The appointment of the Rev. Anthony Rivera as moderator of the First Presbyterian Church, Edgewood effective October 19, 2020.

The appointment of the Rev. Ronee Christy as moderator of the Bellevue United Presbyterian Church effective November 16, 2020.

The appointment of the Rev. Lindsay White as moderator of Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, Monroeville effective November 29, 2020.

The appointment of the Rev. Dr. Karl McDonald as moderator of Crafton United Presbyterian Church, effective December 7, 2020.

*3. Temporary/Covenant/Interim Pastors

The request of the Presbyterian Church of Plum Creek for the services of Rev. Jane Esterline as Covenant Pastor for one-year effective June 1, 2020.

The request of the Northmont Presbyterian Church for the services of Rev. Stephanie Martin as Covenant Associate Pastor for three months effective October 1, 2020.

The request of the Clinton Presbyterian Church for the services of Rev. Karen Younger as Covenant Pastor for one-year effective October 19, 2020.

The request of the First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood for the services of Rev. Anthony Rivera as Covenant Pastor for one-year effective October 19, 2020.

The request of the Friendship Community Presbyterian Church to renew the contract of Rev. Dr. Douglas B. Marshall as Interim Pastor for one-year effective August 1, 2020.

The request of the Pleasant Unity United Presbyterian Church for the services of Rev. Dr. David K. Wood as Covenant Pastor for one-year effective December 1, 2020.

The request of the Deer Creek United Presbyterian Church for the services of Rev. Dr. David K. Wood as Covenant Pastor for one-year effective December 1, 2020.

The request of the Kerr Presbyterian Church to renew the contract of Rev. KJ Norris as Temporary Pastor for one-year effective May 21, 2020.

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*4. Letters of Reception

The Rev. Dr. Joleen (Jo) Forrest from Chicago Presbytery effective January 1, 2021.

The Rev. Ronee Christy from Lake Erie Presbytery effective November 16, 2020.

The Rev. Lindsay White from Providence Presbytery effective November 29, 2020.

*5. Letters of Dissolution

The request of the Crafton United Presbyterian to dissolve the call of Rev. Diane Flynn effective December 6, 2020.

The request of the Bethany Presbyterian Church to dissolve the call of Rev. Jae Cho effective February15, 2021

*6. Letters of Dismissal

The request of the Rev. Maggie Smith to be dismissed to the National Capital Presbytery, effective September 1, 2020.

The request of the Rev. Jim Leuenberger to be dismissed to the Shenango Presbytery, effective October 20, 2020.

*7. Members At-Large

The request of the Rev. Jane Duffield to be enrolled as a member at large of Pittsburgh Presbytery effective August 1, 2020.

The request of the Rev. Dr. John Welch to be enrolled as a member at large of Pittsburgh Presbytery effective July 1, 2020

The request of the Rev. Diane Flynn to be enrolled as a member at large of Pittsburgh Presbytery effective December 7, 2020.

*8. Calls

The call of the Cross Roads Presbyterian Church, Monroeville for the services of the Rev. Lindsay White as Designated Pastor effective November 28, 2020 for a period of two years. Annual terms of call are Salary $38,600; Housing $26,400; Full Pension Plan; Medical Deductible Reimbursement $1,300, Social Security Offset $4,972.50; Expense Allowance $2,000; Continuing Education $3,000; 4 weeks vacation, 2 weeks study leave and Full Moving Costs.

The call of the Westminster Presbyterian Church for the services Rev. Dr. Joleen (Jo) Forrest as Senior Pastor effective January 1, 2021. Annual terms of call are Salary $62,500 and Housing $62,500; Full Pension Plan; Medical Deductible Reimbursement $2,500; Temporary Disability $625; Social Security Offset $9,125; Expense Allowance

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$3,500; Automobile Travel Allowance $2,000; Continuing Education $2,000; 4 weeks vacation and 2 weeks study leave and Full Moving Costs.

Data Women Ethnic/Minorities Disabled TOT PIF INT POS REF PIF INT POS REF PIF INT POS REF

Westminster 16 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 91

PIF – Number of Personal Information Forms received POS – Number offered position INT – Number interviewed REF – Number refused position TOT– All PIFs considered

*9. Commissioned Pastor

The request of Hawthorne Avenue Presbyterian Church for the renewal of the services of Elder Paul Nigra as Commissioned Pastor for one-year effective January 1, 2021 and authorized to perform the following functions at Hawthorne Avenue Presbyterian Church: • Administer the Lord’s Supper.• Administer the Sacrament of Baptism.• Moderate the session.• Have a voice in meetings of the Presbytery• Have a vote in meetings of the Presbytery (such vote to be counted as an elder

commissioner for purposes of parity).• Perform a service of Christian marriage when invited by the session and permitted by

state law.• Perform a service of Christian burial when invited by the session.

*10. Permission to Labor Outside the BoundsRequest of the Rev. Dr. Daniel Merry to serve as Interim Pastor at Church of the Covenant in Washington Presbytery effective January 1, 2021.

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Commission on Preparation for Ministry Report to Pittsburgh Presbytery November 11, 2020

Regular Meeting of the Commission on Preparation for Ministry Pittsburgh Presbytery’s Commission on Preparation for Ministry (CPM) met in a regular meeting on Wednesday November 11, 2020, virtually on Zoom video conference. With a quorum being present, Chair Rev. Bob Walkup opened the meeting with prayer.

Items for Information 1. Pre-Care ConsultationsThe commission reports Pre-Care Consultations were conducted with the following Applicant(s):

Creamer, Mike (Sewickley Presbyterian Church) conducted on 11/7/20 2. Enrolled as InquirersThe commission reports the following Applicant(s) were examined and approved to be enrolled at Inquirer:CREAMER Mike Creamer is a member of Sewickley Presbyterian Church since 2019,

graduated from the Eastern University in 2016, and is currently enrolled at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

3. Ordination ExaminationsThe commission reports the following persons have been given permission to take theSenior Ordination Examinations specified:

Young, Rebecca – Theological Competence, Worship & Sacraments, and Church Polity

4. 2021 Meeting DatesThe commission reports the following meeting dates were approved for 2021:

• January 26, 2021• May 4, 2021• June 15, 2021• August 24, 2021• November 9, 2021

Items for Action

None

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