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Welcome to the 26th Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies (POA)! We hope your time at this meeting will be of time of fellowship and rejuvenation. There are a number of items in the packet that I’d like to draw to your attention.
First, we have included the Annual Report on Teaching Elders and the Annual Terms of Call report. Both of these should be completed and returned to the POA Ministerial Committee c/o TE Eric Toohey - [email protected], or they can be turned in to Eric at the meeting.
Second, we will be voting on four Descending Overtures coming from the Office of the General Assembly as a result of last summer’s 37th General Assembly.
Thirdly, we will be voting on a change to our By-Laws, which was recommended by the Executive Council and had it’s first reading at our 24th Stated Meeting, September 2017.
Fourth, and probably the most important. We are holding a workshop immediately following the adjournment of our meeting on Saturday, entitled “Only Human… facing the emotional challenges of the ministry life.” Both TE’s and RE’s are encouraged to attend. Our presenter is Roy Yanke. His Bio. is included in our packet. The workshop is scheduled to last only one hour, allowing you to return home in a timely manner.
I’m looking forward to seeing you and hearing how God is at work in the various ministries and missions of our member churches and the POA in general.
See You Soon,
Ray Kinat Stated Clerk
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26th Stated Meeting – February 16 & 17, 2018
Agenda #
Time
4:00 PM
WORSHIP TE Josh Brown, Host – Bellefield Presbyterian Church
26.01 Welcome, Opening Prayer TE Nate Devlin, Moderator
26.02 Declaration of Quorum & Approval of Docket TE, Nate Devlin, Moderator Self-Introduction of Guests and Observers
26.03 Report of Ministerial Committee TE Eric Toohey, Chair
26.04 Report of Business Committee TE Doug Brandt, Chair
26.05 Report of EC/Stated Clerk RE Ray Kinat
26.06 6:00 PM
Recess for Dinner TE Nate Devlin, Moderator
26.07 7:30 PM
Reconvene for Worship TE Josh Brown, Host – Bellefield Presbyterian Church
26.08 8:00 AM
Worship TE Josh Brown, Host - Bellefield
26.09 8:30 AM
Reconvene – summary of Friday afternoon/evening
TE Nate Devlin, Moderator
26.10 Report of Church Development Committee TE Doug Runyan, Chair
26.11 Report of Ministerial Committee (cont.) TE Eric Toohey, Chair
26.12 12:00 Adjourn TE Nate Devlin, Moderator
12:00 Workshop – “Only Human… facing the emotional challenges of the ministry life.”
Roy Yanke
April 20 & 21, 2018 - 27th Stated Meeting at Presbyterian Church of Portersville, Portersville, PA
June 19-23 – General Assembly at Hope Presbyterian Church, Cordova, TN
September 21 & 22, 2018 – 28th Stated Meeting at Memorial Park Church, Allison Park, PA
Table of Contents
Report of Ministerial Committee – pages 4 - 21 Statements of Faith – pages 6 - 17
o Jerry Dodd’s pages 6 - 8 o John Bower pages 9 – 13 o Barrett Hendrickson pages 14 - 15 o Tim Slager pages 16 – 17
Annual Report on Teaching Elders page 19 (to be completed and returned)
Terms of Call Minister page 20 – 21 (to be completed and returned)
Report of Business Committee – pages 22 with attachments
Report of Executive Council/Stated Clerk pages – 23 – 44 Executive Council Report – pages 23 - 24 37th GA Descending Overtures – pages – 25-31 Proposed POA Change in By-Laws – page – 32 -33 Report of PRC Review of POA Minutes – Exceptions/Responses –
pages – 34 - 38 Approve the Minutes of Two Commissions to Ordain and/or
Install – Joe Rearick and Harper Brady – pages 39
Report of Church Development Committee pages 40-41
Roy Yanke – Biography page – page 42
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Ministerial Committee Report
26th Stated Meeting – Presbytery of the Alleghenies
February 16-17, 2018
Members of the Ministerial Committee
Kay Atman – RE, Mt. Lebanon
Chris Curtis – TE, New Covenant
Nathanael Devlin – TE, Beverly Heights
Richard Gash – RE, Bay
Scott Graham – TE, CUP
Rich Herbster – TE, Mt. Pleasant
Bob LeSuer – RE, Redeemer
Tony Myers – TE, St. Paul’s
Bruce Tenenbaum – RE, Mt. Lebanon
Eric Toohey – TE, Bethel (Prosperity)
Carol Williams – RE, Bellefield
Last Meeting: January 25, 2018 at Memorial Park Church
Announcements:
All teaching elders should submit an Annual Report and updated Terms of Call by March
16, 2018. These documents can be found in your commissioner docket or on
epc.org/downloads. You may submit these completed forms to TE Eric Toohey via email
([email protected]) or via snail mail (3905 Park Avenue, Prosperity, PA, 15329).
Ruling elders are encouraged to pester teaching elders into compliance.
Motions of the Ministerial Committee Concerning Calls within Our Presbytery:
First Presbyterian Church of Bergen, New York in a duly called congregational meeting on
November 19, 2017 voted to dissolve the call of TE Michael Merry. TE Merry is without call.
First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown, Pennsylvania in a duly called congregational
meeting on November 5, 2017 voted to call TE Paul Becker as Pastor. Terms of call have
been examined and found to be in order.
First Presbyterian Church of Bakerstown, Pennsylvania in a duly called congregational
meeting on November 5, 2017 voted to call TE Jeremy Collins as Associate Pastor. Terms of
call have been examined and found to be in order.
Motions of the Ministerial Committee for Presbytery Approval Pending Examinations:
We recommend candidate Tim Slager to be examined by the presbytery as a candidate for
ordination as a teaching elder in order to accept a call as Assistant Pastor of Adult
Discipleship from Hudson Presbyterian Church.
o Exceptions to the WCF: 21.8
o Terms of Call have been examined and found to be in order (as a tentmaker)
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We recommend Gerald Dodds be examined by the presbytery as an EPC teaching elder
seeking transfer from the Presbytery of the Midwest to the Presbytery of the Alleghenies in
order to accept a call as Pastor of Bethel Evangelical Presbyterian Church (Enon Valley).
o Exceptions to the WCF: None o Terms of Call have been examined and found to be in order
We recommend John Bower be examined by the presbytery as an EPC teaching elder
seeking transfer from the Presbytery of the Mid-Atlantic to the Presbytery of the
Alleghenies in order to accept an Out-of-Bounds call as Chaplain for Buckeye Hospice in
Boardman, Ohio.
o Exceptions to the WCF: 21.8, 29.4 o Terms of Call have been examined and found to be in order
We recommend Barrett Hendrickson be examined by the presbytery to become a candidate
under care of our presbytery.
o Church Membership & Endorsement: Bellefield Presbyterian Church
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Statement of Faith – Jerry Dodds – January 2018
Many years ago I supplied these brief answers for PCA Data Form. I thought they
might be helpful since they cover a wide range of theological issues. I would
describe myself as a Confessional Reformed pastor. I cherish the Westminster
Standards as well the Three Forms of Unity of the Dutch Reformed Churches. I am
an Amillenialist in eschatology and a presuppositionalist in terms of apologetics.
Some of the men who have influenced my ministry include: D.M.Lloyd-Jones, Eric
Alexander, Sinclair Ferguson, J.R. deWitt, R.C.Sproul and Alistair Begg.
View of Scripture -- Being directly inspired by the Holy Spirit, the Scriptures
are the inerrant and only infallible rule for faith and life. Furthermore, the only
proper way to interpret Scripture is with Scripture.
World and Life View -- As a Reformed Christian I want to apply Scripture and
the principles, which can be properly deduced from it to all of life. Christ's Lordship
extends to every square inch of the cosmos.
Trinity -- I believe that there is only One Simple and Spiritual Being in which
there are three persons. These eternal, distinct persons are the Father, the Son, and
the Holy Spirit, who are the same in substance and equal in power and glory.
Person and Work of Christ -- I believe Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God,
who for us and our salvation took to Himself a true human nature. This sinless God-
Man, as the mediator of the Covenant of Grace, offered Himself up a perfect
vicarious sacrifice for the sins of His elect. With His resurrection and glorious
ascension He continues as our Prophet, Priest, and King.
Justification – I, like Calvin, believe this is the “main hinge” of the
Gospel. Justification is an instantaneous legal and declarative act of God wherein all
my sins are pardoned and I am accepted as a righteous child of God. The ground of
this forensic act is the imputed righteousness of Christ. Faith is the instrument for
receiving Him and all the benefits of His gracious salvation.
Sanctification (View of Law) – Unlike justification sanctification is not a
forensic act. It is the continuous and progressive work of the Holy Spirit. In this
work the Spirit infuses grace to the Christian, which enables him or her to die to
their old selfish and sinful ways and live holy. The Spirit’s principle means for our
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growth in holiness are prayer, sacraments, and the written and preached Word of
God; with the Word we think of the third use of the Law. While this growth is
through our whole person throughout life, it is never complete in this life. The souls
of believers are made perfectly holy as they at death pass into the presence of Christ.
We await for the final day of Christ's return when our bodies will be glorified. Then
we shall be made perfectly blessed to enjoy our God throughout eternity.
Covenant Theology – This is the proper framework to grasp God’s dealings
with His people. Without this grid we do not rightly understand His Promises, the
Sacraments, the Creation ordinances, the plan of salvation, and the joy of the coming
New Heavens and New Earth. The covenant
promise of God is, "I will be your God and you shall be My people."
Covenant Baptism – Baptism is Christ’s own appointed sign and seal of our
union with Him. Thus, as our catechisms disclose it symbolizes the Spirit’s inward
regeneration and renewal of the believer. It is the New Testament counterpart to
circumcision and is rightly applied to children of believers. It should be underlined
Reformed folk do not hold to baptismal regeneration.
The Lord's Supper- is the second sacrament our Lord instituted for His Church.
As a Reformed pastor I hold to the view of Calvin that Christ's people are spiritually
eating and drinking of our Redeemer. In that meal we feed by faith upon the glorious
Christ who once and for all offered Himself up to the accursed death of the cross for
our sins. When administering the sacrament, I use the language of or paraphrase the
Directory of Worship for the fencing and invitation.
Covenant of Works and Grace – Having broken the first covenant of works,
man was left condemned and unable to rescue himself. God graciously offers
sinners salvation through the last Adam – Christ. While this covenant of Grace
appears in several administrations, it is nonetheless one covenant. It has the same
promise and points to the same covenant mediator through types, prophecies and
sacrifice.
Dispensationalism – This is a nineteenth century theological error. As
Reformed scholars, such as Dr. John Gerstner, have shown, it distorts the Gospel of
Justification by Faith alone, the doctrine of sanctification as well as eschatology.
Five Points of Calvinism – These grand truths were hammered out at the
Synod of Dort in 1618-19 in response to the Remonstrants (followers of
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Arminius). All of them are interrelated as a system. Each one exalts the Sovereignty
of God in predestination, regeneration, the Atonement and preservation of God’s
people.
Gifts of the Spirit – I believe God’s Spirit who regenerates us gives all of God’s
people gifts for ministry. These gifts are essential for the Church’s edification and
outreach. Although I lean to the cessationist position, last year I read a fascinating
paper from Dr. Dean Smith of Geneva College. He presented it to Westminster
Seminary. He highlights incredible workings of the Holy Spirit in Scotland several
centuries ago.
Evangelism -- I believe it is the joy and duty of every Christian to bear witness
to Christ. One area where many in the Reformed church need encouragement is
hospitality evangelism. We need to build relationships with unbelievers so that we
can bring the message of the cross. We should be open to receive training
from people especially gifted in opening their home to unbelievers.
Church Discipline – I believe Church discipline needs to be carried out for the
sake of Christ’s glory, the Church’s purity and the disobedient’s own good. It is
never easy, but elders must pray, weep, read the Scriptures and follow the sound
practice set forth in the Book of Church Order.
Personal Views on Smoking – I am not a smoker. I have never made smoking
an issue in the congregations I have served.
Use of Alcohol – I sometime have a glass of wine. This is a matter of Christian
liberty which Christ has secured for us.
I whole heartedly, joyfully embrace the Westminster Standards.
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CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT OF FAITH John Bower
1. The Bible (Bibliology) The Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible word of God. It is God’s special revelation of himself. It is authoritative and our rule for life and faith. The Bible is self-authoritative and does not receive its authority from any person, church or council. The autographs are the inspired texts. All translations and interpretations are inspired only as they accurately represent the originals. The canon of Scripture is not determined by the church but is received by the church from God.
2. God the Father (theology proper) God the Father is the first person of the Trinity. God is a spirit and does not exist in any form. He is the creator and ruler of the universe. He created all things out of nothing, upholds them with his power and rules them with his sovereign will and purpose for his own glory. He is good, loving and gracious. His knowledge and power are absolute and his judgements righteous.
3. Jesus Christ (Christology) Jesus is the co-eternal Son of God, second person of the Trinity, eternally generated by the Father, co-equal with the Father, of the same essence as the Father, Eternal, Divine, possessing all the attributes of the God-head, yet is a distinct person. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary, yet remained fully human and fully divine, two natures in one person. Jesus lived a sinless life, died on the cross, rose from the dead and ascended into heaven where he is seated at the right hand of God. He intercedes for us as our great high priest in the presence of God. He will return again to this world in power and glory to judge the world and consummate his kingdom.
4. The Holy Spirit (Pneumatology) The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, co-equal with the Father and the Son. He proceeds from both the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit shares all the attributes of the Godhead. The Holy Spirit is the active presence of God in believers and in the life and ministry of the church. The Spirit regenerates and applies the work of Christ to individual believers, unites believers with Christ, mediates the presence of God and Jesus to us. The Holy Spirit equips, guides and undergirds our work in ministry.
5. Mankind (Anthropology) Humans were created in the image of God, to be in a relationship with God, bring glory to God and to be stewards of God’s creation. They were created with a free human will and had the ability to freely obey or not obey God. Adam and Eve chose to reject God’s rule and disobey his commands. God punished them and the entire human race as a result. Adam and Eve represented all human beings as federal
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heads, acting in our place. This is called “The Fall.” Every human being is now born with a fallen human nature, tainted by sin, resistant to God. We can do nothing to please God.
6. Sin (Hamartiology) Sin is anything we do that goes against the will of God in our lives, any transgression of the laws established by God for our lives. We sin by doing things, which we should not do and by not doing the things that we should do. We are not able to overcome the sin nature of our human situation through our own effort or by our own will. We are dead in sin.
7. Salvation (Soteriology) God covenanted among the persons of the Trinity to choose and save a people in eternity past. This plan unfolded according to God’s pre-ordained plan and purpose. God sent His Son into the world. He lived a perfect life of obedience. Jesus then willingly offered his life on the cross as a substitutionary sacrifice of atonement. This sacrifice did not make salvation possible but made actual atonement for the sins of his elect people. This salvation is made available by grace through faith to those who put their faith in Jesus and his work on the cross. Those who were elected are predestined to salvation, hear the outward call of the Gospel, receive that call inwardly and are regenerated by the work of the Holy Spirit. This regeneration causes conversion within the believer, transforming them from unbeliever to believer through repentance and faith. They receive justification and adoption. Through the Holy Spirit, they begin to live life in obedience to God, progressing in sanctification until they are finally glorified with Christ, when Christ returns.
8. Satan Satan is the leader of a group of evil spiritual beings who rebelled against God and his rule. He is a real, individual and personal being. He is not equal to God but is a created being. He is a liar and a deceiver who tries to draw humans away from God God’s rule to him and his rule. At the end of the age, Satan and his followers will be cast into the lake of fire where they will be punished forever.
9. The Church (Ecclesiology) The church is the people who gather together in Christ’s name. It consists of those people (along with their children) who profess a faith in Jesus Christ. There exists a visible (all those who gather) and the invisible (all those who are saved) church. The true church of God is characterized by certain marks that must be present: the true preaching of the word, the right administration of the sacraments and the faithful exercise of discipline. The local church is a local congregation. The church universal includes all people everywhere who are united with Christ through faith, both the living and the dead.
10. The Spiritual Life and the Sacraments
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Each believer begins a life-long process of spiritual growth guided by the Holy Spirit called sanctification. While believers do not participate in their conversion, they do cooperate with the work of the Spirit in spiritual growth. God provides means of grace and spiritual disciplines to assist us. Jesus himself instituted two sacraments for the church that function as signs and seals of the covenant of grace, baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Baptism proclaims God’s forgiveness, our redemption and newness of life. Through baptism we publicly identify with Christ and join the visible church. The Lord’s Supper is a commemoration of Christ’s sacrificial death on our behalf. Christ is spiritually present to us in the elements. It reminds us of our nourishment and spiritual growth. God also provides a number of spiritual disciplines, which can deepen our walk with Christ: worship, Scripture reading, prayer, meditation, fasting, giving, service, accountability, etc..
11. Future Things (Eschatology) The Bible discusses end time events in several places, but often in symbolic or figurative language. Therefore, there are a variety of ways people understand these end time events. Full-Preterists (these events have already taken place), Partial preterists (some are fulfilled and some remain to be fulfilled), Premillennialism (Christ returns before the thousand year period), Postmillennialism (Christ returns after the thousand years) and Amillennialism (the thousand years is symbolic of the entire church age. The rapture conveys the idea that believers will be transported from earth to heaven at Jesus’ second coming. In dispensational terms, it refers to a secret coming of Jesus when believers will be removed from the earth before the tribulation period. The important themes of Eschatology are the spread of the Gospel to the entire world, the return of many of the Jews, the great apostasy of the people of God, the great tribulation, the rise of the anti-Christ, the return of Jesus, the final resurrection, the final judgment, and the consummation of the kingdom of God. I feel this is an area where we must be open and careful.
12. Evangelism Prior to his ascension, Jesus gave his followers a final command: to go into the world and make disciples of all nations. Therefore, making disciples is one of our primary tasks. We are called to evangelism as individuals and as a church. God’s primary means of evangelism is the sharing of the Gospel, the good news about the saving work of Jesus. We do so knowing that the Holy Spirit will work effectually in the lives of the elect, regenerating them and drawing them to a saving faith in Jesus according to his sovereign will and purpose and for his glory.
13. Spiritual Gifts The Scripture tells us in several places, but particularly in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, that the Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to individuals for the benefit of the church. Each and every person is gifted by the Spirit and has a role to play in the life and ministry of the church. Our task then, is to discern the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given us, and use them as God intended for His glory and for the building up of the church (Parable of the Talents). Scripture is also clear that there are a
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variety of gifts and that not everyone receives the same gifts so that God’s callings, purposes and work might be fulfilled. The amazing realization is that God chooses to work out His will and purpose through us. We are His means of service in the world, His hands, feet, eyes, etc.. He calls and gifts us to fulfill his purposes.
Exceptions the Westminster Confession of Faith
Rev. John E Bower III
WCF-21: 8 -The Sabbath Day “The Sabbath is kept holy unto the Lord when men prepare their hearts for it; arrange for their daily affairs to be taken care of beforehand; rest the whole day from their own works and words, and from thoughts about their worldly activities and recreations; and take up the whole time in public and private worship and in the duties of necessity and mercy.”
I take an exception to the keeping of the Sabbath as defined. The language of WCF seems to imply that recreation is not permitted on the Sabbath Day, however, Jesus in Scripture is seen walking, picking and eating grain on the Sabbath and healing people on the Sabbath. He clearly declares that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath. I believe that some recreative activities as long as they don’t interfere with our worship or our focus on God and our faith are permissible on the Sabbath.
WCF-29.4 – The Lord’s Supper “Practices contrary to the nature of this sacrament and to the institution of it by Christ are private masses or receiving the sacrament alone from a priest or anyone else; denying the cup to the congregation; and worshiping the bread and wine themselves by lifting them up or carrying them around for adoration or reserving them for any counterfeit religious use.”
As a hospice chaplain, I take an exception to 29.4. There may be a time when I am asked to provide the Lord’s Supper to a patient and an elder or other representative of the body of Christ may not be available. I will always make an effort to have the body represented by another person when the Lord’s Supper is served.
I include the following reference for guidance pertaining to chaplains in the provision of both the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and Baptism.
The Evangelical Presbyterian Church Procedure and Policy Handbook for The Chaplains Work and Care Committee & EPC Chaplains in section D.2: Guidance for Chaplain: The Sacraments states:
“Sacraments. Chaplains minister to some degree with the role and authority of Evangelists. A Chaplain may be, in a given situation, the only representative of
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the EPC, or indeed of Christ’s Church at large. To this end it is necessary that Chaplains have authority to provide the sacraments of baptism, and the Lord’s Supper, wherever they minister. The Chaplain should keep in mind that sacraments are not private, but provide God’s grace for the Body of Christ in general. The Chaplain should therefore attempt, whenever possible, to provide the sacraments in the context of public worship. If they are provided in other settings for individuals, the Chaplain should endeavor to have present some expression of the larger Body of Christ, such as mature laymen and known Christian leaders.”
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Barrett Hendrickson Statement of Faith
I believe that the Bible is the inerrant, infallible, inspired word of God. The Bible is
sufficient because it attests to Jesus being superior and enough. It speaks of the fullness and finality of God’s redemption and revelation. Scripture is authoritative as final and supreme in all matters essential to life. It is necessary for man to understand what is needed for salvation and who God is. Scripture is clear enough
to understand what must be believed, and observed in order to be a faithful follower of Christ.
God is one in trinity. God is distinct in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
and never divided in essence. God created the universe out of nothing, as a display of His glory for the delight of His creation. He is transcendent and immanent. God is eternal, from Himself, immutable, impassible, and sovereign, the One to Whom we should direct all of our praise.
I believe that Jesus Christ is the eternally begotten Son of God. On earth He was
conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, in order to become completely man while still completely God, forever. He was born, lived and lives without sin. His incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension are the works from which the elect receive their salvation. This salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Jesus now sits at the right hand of God as a mediator for the whom he has saved.
The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son, yet is of the same substance,
and co-eternal, and coequal. The Holy Spirit is the agent who convicts us of our sin, towards repentance, and directs us to faith in the saving work of Christ. He is the
Counselor, who gives us the gifts of faith, and good works, so that others may see and give glory to God in heaven.
The first man, Adam, was created with the possibility to not sin, yet when tempted
by the devil, chose to sin, condemning all of man. Through his sin and seed, all man is born deserving death, with no ability not to sin. Through the saving work of Christ, the elect now have a redeemer, whose righteousness is imputed to us, as our sin was imputed to Him.
All of man who have received this salvation make up the Church, the body and bride
of Christ. The Church has been given the gifts of ministry, prayer, fellowship, Scriptures, and sacraments of the Baptism and the Lord’s Supper in order to sanctify Her. The Spirit indwells the Church directing Her as She is perfected until the promised return of Her Head, Jesus Christ.
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The sacraments of baptism, and the Lord’s supper are signs and seals of God’s covenant of grace with his people. Together with the work of the Spirit and authority of Scripture, the sacraments confirm our position with and in Him, marking the members of the visible Church. They are a visible sign of a spiritual truth of our union with Christ.
I believe that Jesus Christ will return to the earth to judge the living and the dead, on
a day God the Father has chosen. He will show His mercy through eternal salvation of the elect, and His justice through His wrath to the reprobate. The saved will spend
eternity in God’s presence where there is no longer the presence of sin. The condemned will be cast into eternal torment, away from the presence of the Lord.
Jesus commanded His Church to proclaim His gospel to all the world. He delights in
using His people to share the good news, by preaching, teaching, and doing good works, as there is no other way to receive salvation, except through hearing and believing the Word of God.
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Statement of Faith Tim Slager January 1, 2018
I believe that God created the universe and all that is in it.1 This same God exists
eternally and infinitely in the three persons of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.2 God the
Father is known through Scripture as dwelling in heaven, working in secret,
reigning in glory, and being the father of us all.3 God the Son is revealed through
Scripture as human, divine, powerful, and Lord.4 God the Holy Spirit is described in
Scripture as a witness, truth, and helper.5
Scripture is the inspired and infallible Word of God, which describes His nature and
how He relates to creation. The infallible nature of Scripture ensured that it could be
transmitted perfectly through fallible human authors, resulting in the production of
inerrant autograph manuscripts. These texts are represented completely and
exclusively in the 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New
Testament. While the Scripture was originally written in languages unfamiliar to
many, the Holy Spirit makes it understandable and authoritative to those from all
languages, cultures, and generations.6
To those whom the Holy Spirit quickens, He also reveals that the Scripture is the
story of God’s gracious reconciliation with a fallen creation.7 After God created
Adam and Eve, he equipped them with a provisional freedom which they promptly
misused by eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Descendants of Adam
and Eve have subsequently misused this provisional freedom, fully displaying that
we are natural heirs to brokenness and sin. This sin leaves us at enmity with God,
desperately needing a mediator to restore us to right relation.
It is this need, which Jesus Christ fulfilled by offering himself, as a propitiation for
our sins.8 Jesus alone was able to make this perfect sacrifice as demonstrated by his
virgin birth, blameless life, sacrificial death, and bodily resurrection. Upon his
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ascension to Heaven, Jesus left us with the Holy Spirit who applies Christ to the Elect
in order that the Father will justify, adopt, sanctify and save them. Our salvation will
culminate when Jesus returns bodily to earth to bring us into His Kingdom. Come
Lord Jesus!
1 Gn 1:1 2 Mt. 3:16 3 Ps 19:3, Ex 17:6 4 Jn 1:1, Mt. 1:17 5 Rom 8:16 Jn 16:7 Jn 16:13
6 WC 1.8 7 WC 1:5 8 Rom 3:25
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ANNUAL REPORT ON TEACHING ELDERS This report
should be submitted to the Ministerial Committee annually along
with the change
in terms of call form (G.21D.1(f)). Presbytery: For year:
Name of Minister:
Church: Length of Ministry at above Church: Major Responsibilities:
How have you seen the Spirit of God at work in your ministry this past year?
Change in responsibilities for the coming year:
Session Performance Review of Pastor: Yes No Problems or Concerns:
Do you continue to find yourself in accord with the vows you assumed at ordination (G.13- 2)? Yes No
Signature:
Date:
EPC Form 2015
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TERMS OF CALL – MINISTER
The of
, feeling led by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, have
covenanted together to call you, as Pastor/Associate
Pastor/Assistant Pastor. In issuing this call to you to be our and
spiritual leader, we commit ourselves to support you in every way. We commit ourselves to
support you in prayer, in participation in the work of ministry, and in your material needs.
We initially commit ourselves as follows:
1. Annual Cash Salary $
2. Housing Allowance $ (or)
3. Manse & Utilities $
4. Car Allowance $ or Mileage reimbursement of:
5. Amount (10% minimum) of gross salary (salary plus housing) for government approved
pension
plan $
6. EPC Group Insurance for you and your family
7. Annual vacation of four weeks
8. Study leave (two week minimum, cumulative up to six weeks)
9. Other reimbursable accounts: (study/book account, travel for denominational meetings,
etc.)
As Associate or Assistant Pastor your primary responsibilities will be:
As Assistant Pastor, this call is extended to you for years, beginning (date).
We commit ourselves to continue this remuneration as long as you continue as our
Pastor/Associate Pastor/Assistant Pastor. We commit ourselves to review this pledge
annually and adjust it appropriately (considering all applicable factors, including changes in
the cost of living). In addition, we commit ourselves to paying the expense related to your
move up to:
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In testimony whereof we have subscribed our names on behalf of the congregation/session
this
day of , 20 .
Clerk of Meeting Chairman of Search Committee
I, , having moderated the congregational/session meeting, which
extended the call to for ministerial services, certify that the call was
made in complete conformity with the Book of Government, and that the persons signing the
call were authorized to do so by vote of the congregation/session.
Moderator of the Meeting
EPC Form 2015
Page 22 of 42
Report of the Business Committee 26th Stated Meeting – Presbytery of the Alleghenies
February 16-17, 2018
Review - 2017 Year End Financial Statement Review – 2018 January Financial Statement Per Member Asking – 2017 & 2018
Presbytery of the Alleghenies
Income and Expense Statement
GENERAL FUND 01, January 2017 - December 2017 02/11/2018 10:36 PM Page: 1
Current Period Annual Budget
INCOME
CONTRIBUTION INCOME
UNRESTRICTED
Per Member Asking $177,087.27 $165,000.00
Pastor's Retreat 1,020.00 1,000.00
Pastor Eval Reimbursement 4,600.00 0.00
Subtotal Unrestricted 182,707.27
166,000.00
DONOR RESTRICTED
TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED
Designated Giving
850.00
0.00
Mtg Worship Offerings 2,691.00 0.00
GA Offset - RS Salary Inc 25,000.00 25,000.00
Subtotal Temporarily Restricted 28,541.00
25,000.00
Subtotal Donor Restricted 28,541.00
25,000.00
Subtotal Contribution Income 211,248.27
191,000.00
RELEASE FROM RESTRICTIONS
TEMP RESTRICTED RELEASE
Seminarians Aid Fund
-4,615.00
0.00
Mtg Worship Offerings -2,615.00 0.00
Presbytery Reserve Funds -25,000.00 0.00
GA Offset - RS Salary Rel -25,000.00 0.00
Subtotal Temp Restricted Release -57,230.00 0.00
RELEASED FROM RESTRICTION
Released from restriction 57,230.00 0.00
Subtotal Release From Restrictions 0.00
0.00
TOTAL INCOME 211,248.27
191,000.00
EXPENSES
FIXED EXPENSES
PRESBYTERY STAFF
STATED CLERK $15,000.00
SC Stipend 8,750.00 0.00
SC Health Insurance 5,202.37 0.00
SC Health Savings Account 874.92 0.00
SC Life Insurance 68.75 0.00
SC Long Term Disabiity 17.26 0.00
Subtotal Stated Clerk 14,913.30
15,000.00
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
AA Salary
17,499.56
17,500.00
AA Reimbursable Expenses 223.71 500.00
Subtotal Administrative Assistant 17,723.27
18,000.00
Subtotal Presbytery Staff 32,636.57
33,000.00
REVITALIZATION STAFF
STAFF SALARIES
RS Salary 49,836.00 43,576.00
RS Housing 22,264.08 28,524.00
Presbytery of the Alleghenies
Income and Expense Statement
GENERAL FUND 01, January 2017 - December 2017 02/11/2018 10:36 PM Page: 2
Current Period Annual Budget
RS BENEFITS 23,489.70 21,248.44
RS Professional Expenses 5,401.35 5,000.00
Subtotal Revitalization Staff 100,991.13
98,348.44
EMPLOYER EXPENSES
Payroll Taxes 1,338.80 1,000.00
Insurance (W/C,D/O,G/L) 3,332.75 3,500.00
Subtotal Employer Expenses 4,671.55
4,500.00
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE
Bank Charges 34.00 0.00
Office Supplies/Misc Exp 707.04 500.00
Postage 63.70 100.00
Printing/Copies 0.00 100.00
Expense Reimbursements 3,419.84 2,500.00
INTERNET
Website
1,650.00
1,000.00
Subtotal Administrative Expense 5,874.58
4,200.00
Subtotal Fixed Expenses 144,173.83
140,048.44
DEPARTMENTS/COMMITTEES
MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
Committee Chair Expenses 3,000.00 3,000.00
Miscellaneous 260.27 100.00
CANDIDATE PREPARATION 7,015.00 1,000.00
MEMBER CARE 2,091.99 3,000.00
EXAMINATIONS 35.10 1,100.00
Subtotal Ministerial Committee 12,402.36 8,200.00
CHURCH DEVELOPMENT CMTE
Committee Chair Expenses 3,000.00 3,000.00
COMMITTEE EXPENSES 1,032.60 4,600.00
Subtotal Church Development Cmte 4,032.60
7,600.00
MINISTRY NETWORK
COMMITTEE EXPENSES
60.46
300.00
Subtotal Ministry Network 60.46
300.00
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE EXPENSES 0.00 1,000.00
Subtotal Business Administration 0.00
1,000.00
TREASURER
1,000.00
Treasurer Expenses 179.10 0.00
Software/Checks/Postage 75.96 0.00
Bank Account Fees 120.00 0.00
Subtotal Treasurer 375.06
1,000.00
Subtotal Departments/committees 16,870.48
18,100.00
MEETING EXPENSES
PRESBYTERY MEETINGS
Presbytery of the Alleghenies
Income and Expense Statement
GENERAL FUND 01, January 2017 - December 2017 02/11/2018 10:36 PM Page: 3
Current Period Annual Budget
Moderator Expenses 0.00 500.00
Miscellaneous 681.71 0.00
Worship Offering Transfer 1,415.00 0.00
Subtotal Presbytery Meetings 2,096.71
500.00
Subtotal Meeting Expenses 2,096.71
500.00
Subtotal Expenses 163,141.02
158,648.44
OTHER EXPENSES
CHURCH PLANTING/DEVEL
Church Planting
25,050.00
40,000.00
ENGAGE 2025 7,500.00
POA/Engage Partnership 7,500.00 0.00
Subtotal Engage 2025 7,500.00
7,500.00
TRINTY-REFORMED TRACK
Reformed Track Support
5,000.00
5,000.00
MISCELLANEOUS 1,694.31 0.00
Subtotal Other Expenses 39,244.31
52,500.00
TOTAL EXPENSES 202,385.33
211,148.44
EXCESS INCOME\EXPENSES $8,862.94
-$20,148.44
Presbytery of the Alleghenies
Income and Expense Statement
GENERAL FUND 01, January 2018 02/11/2018 10:38 PM Page: 1
Current Period Annual Budget
INCOME
CONTRIBUTION INCOME
UNRESTRICTED
Per Member Asking $9,051.37 $160,000.00 Pastor's Retreat 0.00 1,000.00
Subtotal Unrestricted 9,051.37
161,000.00
DONOR RESTRICTED
TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED
GA Offset - RS Salary Inc 6,250.00 25,000.00
Subtotal Contribution Income 15,301.37 186,000.00
RELEASE FROM RESTRICTIONS
TEMP RESTRICTED RELEASE
GA Offset - RS Salary Rel -2,009.37 0.00
RELEASED FROM RESTRICTION
Released from restriction
2,009.37
0.00
Subtotal Release From Restrictions 0.00
0.00
TOTAL INCOME 15,301.37
186,000.00
EXPENSES
FIXED EXPENSES
PRESBYTERY STAFF
STATED CLERK
$15,000.00
SC Stipend 1,250.00 0.00
Subtotal Stated Clerk 1,250.00
15,000.00
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
AA Salary 1,500.00 18,000.00 AA Reimbursable Expenses 0.00 500.00
Subtotal Administrative Assistant 1,500.00
18,500.00
Subtotal Presbytery Staff 2,750.00 33,500.00
REVITALIZATION STAFF
STAFF SALARIES
RS Salary 4,018.74 48,225.00
RS Housing 2,172.92 26,075.00
RS BENEFITS 1,870.26 22,553.36
RS Professional Expenses 124.77 6,500.00
Subtotal Revitalization Staff 8,186.69
103,353.36
EMPLOYER EXPENSES
Payroll Taxes
114.76
1,377.00
Insurance (W/C,D/O,G/L) 0.00 3,500.00
Subtotal Employer Expenses 114.76
4,877.00
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE
Office Supplies/Misc Exp 0.00 500.00
Postage 0.00 100.00
Printing/Copies 0.00 100.00 Expense Reimbursements 0.00 3,000.00
INTERNET
Presbytery of the Alleghenies
Income and Expense Statement
GENERAL FUND 01, January 2018 02/11/2018 10:38 PM Page: 2
Current Period Annual Budget
Website 0.00 1,800.00
Subtotal Administrative Expense 0.00
5,500.00
Subtotal Fixed Expenses 11,051.45 147,230.36
DEPARTMENTS/COMMITTEES
MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE
Committee Chair Expenses 0.00 3,000.00
Miscellaneous 0.00 100.00
CANDIDATE PREPARATION 0.00 600.00
MEMBER CARE 0.00 3,000.00
EXAMINATIONS 0.00 1,100.00
Subtotal Ministerial Committee 0.00
7,800.00
CHURCH DEVELOPMENT CMTE
Committee Chair Expenses 0.00 3,000.00
COMMITTEE EXPENSES 0.00 5,100.00
Subtotal Church Development Cmte 0.00
8,100.00
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
COMMITTEE EXPENSES
0.00
1,000.00
Communications 0.00 3,000.00
Subtotal Business Administration 0.00
4,000.00
TREASURER
1,000.00
Bank Account Fees 17.00 0.00
Subtotal Treasurer 17.00 1,000.00
Subtotal Departments/committees 17.00
20,900.00
MEETING EXPENSES
PRESBYTERY MEETINGS
Moderator Expenses 0.00 500.00
Subtotal Expenses 11,068.45
168,630.36
OTHER EXPENSES
CHURCH PLANTING/DEVEL
Church Planting 0.00 25,000.00
ENGAGE 2025 0.00 7,500.00
TRINTY-REFORMED TRACK
Reformed Track Support
0.00
5,000.00
Subtotal Other Expenses 0.00
37,500.00
TOTAL EXPENSES 11,068.45 206,130.36
EXCESS INCOME\EXPENSES $4,232.92 -$20,130.36
Page 23 of 42
Report of the Executive Council and the Stated Clerk 26th Stated Meeting – Presbytery of the Alleghenies
February 16-17, 2018
Agenda – POA Executive Council February 1, 2018 Memorial Park
Opening Prayer – 10 am
o Present – Jim Bandstra, Marlene Becker, Doug Brandt, Nate Devlin, Ray Kinat, Doug Runyan, Bob Stauffer, Bruce Tenenbaum, Eric Toohey
Recap of November Best Practices – Jim
o Church Discipline and Discipleship – appreciate the participation of our POA Teaching and Ruling Elders leading us the various aspects of our theme. We will continue to plan for our November meeting being a Ministry Encouragement meeting and will look for a unified theme for future subject matters
Items from Stated Clerk’s perspective – Rayo Follow up from last Ex. Council meeting regarding the ability of the Ex.
Council to designate offerings received at Stated Meetings. After a review of our By-Laws, it was determined that the By-laws do give the EC the authorization to designate offerings at Presbytery meeting.
o A motion was presented that the POA support a coalition of churches initiative against the legalization of marijuana in Ohio. The motion failed.
o After much discussion around the POA support of issues that appear to be of a social nature, it was determined to establish a task force to study and report to the EC how churches are to intersect with the public and culture and our responsibility to speak to them. Perhaps this is a topic for Best Practices in November 2018. Nate Devlin will lead the formation of the task force.
o Nate Devlin recommended to the POA a resource on a book on marriage. A motion was made to approve the recommendation at the April meeting (the book is not yet published). Approved.
o EC recommends the Business Committee work with the Treasurer to set aside a reserve account of 2 months of expenses.
o The Office of the GA, just this week, informed the GO Center staff of a change in funding beginning July 1, 2018. This change negatively impacts the compensation of Bob Stauffer and also the budget of the POA. After much discussion, the EC recommends the Business
Page 24 of 42
Committee determine a solution to fund the anticipated shortfall in Bob’s compensation.
o Approved a recommendation to rename Committees and Councils to Teams to express the nature of the work being done within them. The Executive Council will be named Leadership Team. Other committees will discuss this at their next meetings.
Communications – Nate & Rayo Video – Approved spending $5000 on a video promoting the POA.
There is $3,000 currently in the budget and the EC requests Business Committee find additional funding.
o Website – Ray will contact the GA Communications Director Brian Smith regarding website hosting/design
Ministerial Committee Update – Erico Review of their recent meeting on January 25, 2018 o Recommendation to not financially support the Gordon Conwell
Seminary MAP initiative, proposed by the GA Office, focusing our efforts on the partnership with Trinity.
o Will send out Lent brochure on proper administration of the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.
Church Development Committee Update – Doug Runyano Reviewed the report of the committee meeting on January 29, 2018
Church Revitalization/Vision Workshop Updates – Bobo Will be leading Transitional Church Process at GA o Have recruited 8 coaches in our presbytery to work with churches
using the Vitality Seminar process o Meeting with Transitional Pastors
Business Committee Update – Doug Brandto Needs to recruit committee members o Focus on the responsibility to raise the PMA o Will develop a stewardship plan to raise participation in the PMA
Items from Administrative Assistant perspective – Marleneo Develop a list of Committee membership
Firm up Docket for 26th Stated Meeting – Nate & Rayo Transfer exams on Friday o Candidate under care Saturday o Candidate exam on Saturday
Any other businesso None
Closing Prayer – 2 pm
Page 25 of 42
Descending Overtures from the 37h General Assembly
Evangelical Presbyterian Church
Descending Overture 17-A
To amend Book of Government 9-6A and 10-8B.2a to specify the term of service for an out of
bounds call to be for a renewable term of up to three years, bringing consistency to the two
sections.
1
Proposed Book of Government 9-6A Additions in bold italics
9-6 Teaching Elders serving outside of
presbytery bounds
A. Whenever a Teaching Elder is called
to one of the positions provided for
under G.9-5 by an agency that is
outside the jurisdiction of a court of
the Church and after being fully
satisfied that the ministry is
consistent with the calling to the
ministry of the Word, the Presbytery
may grant permission for the
Minister to labor outside of its
jurisdictional bounds Such
permission is renewable annually.
for a term of up to three years. After
the expiration of that time, the
Minister must receive further
Presbytery approval to continue. The Teaching Elder shall make an
annual report to the Presbytery of
faithfulness to the gospel. The
Teaching Elder serving out of
bounds shall be diligent to serve
actively in the Court. If the
particular call prohibits such service,
the Teaching Elder should seek
Associate Member status.
Current Book of Government 9-6A
9-6 Teaching Elders serving outside
of presbytery bounds
A. Whenever a Teaching Elder is called
to one of the positions provided for
under G.9-5 by an agency that is
outside the jurisdiction of a court of
the Church and after being fully
satisfied that the ministry is
consistent with the calling to the
ministry of the Word, the
Presbytery may grant permission for
the Minister to labor outside of its
jurisdictional bounds. Such
permission is renewable
annually. The Teaching Elder
shall make an annual report to
the Presbytery of faithfulness
to the gospel. The Teaching
Elder serving out of bounds
shall be diligent to serve
actively in the Court. If the
particular call prohibits such
service, the Teaching Elder
should seek Associate
Member status.
Page 26 of 42
Current Book of Government 10-8B.2a Proposed Book of Government 10-8B.2a Changes in bold italics
a. If a Teaching Elder desires to accept a
call outside the jurisdictional or
geographic bounds of the approving
Presbytery, the Teaching Elder shall
present a call from that body to the
Presbytery, indicating the nature of
the work and the terms of the call. If
the Presbytery approves the nature of
the work as appropriate to the gospel
ministry and requiring ordination, it
may approve the call for a definite
period of time. After the expiration of
that time, the Minister must receive
further approval to continue.
a. If a Teaching Elder desires to accept a
call outside the jurisdictional or
geographic bounds of the approving
Presbytery, the Teaching Elder shall
present a call from that body to the
Presbytery, indicating the nature of the
work and the terms of the call. If the
Presbytery approves the nature of the
work as appropriate to the gospel
ministry and requiring ordination, it
may approve the call for a definite
period of time term of up to three
years. After the expiration of that time,
the Minister must receive further Presbytery approval to continue.
Descending Overture 17-B
To amend Book of Government 21-2D.2e and f, expanding areas of ongoing authority that may
be given to the Ministerial Committee at the discretion of the Presbytery”
Current Book of Government 21-2D.2e, f Proposed Book of Government 21-2D.2e, f
Additions in bold italics
21-2 The Ministerial Committee 21-2 The Ministerial Committee
D. Authority and Responsibilities D. Authority and Responsibilities
2. With regard to local churches 2. With regard to local churches
e. Presbytery may authorize
this Committee to dissolve
pastoral relationships and
dismiss Teaching Elders
according to the Book of
Order when both the
congregation and the
Pastor concur in the
dissolution.
f. The Committee may be
appointed by Presbytery to serve as a Judicial or
e. Presbytery may authorize
this the Ministerial
Committee to dissolve
pastoral relationships and
dismiss Teaching Elders
according to the Book of
Order when both the
congregation and the
Pastor concur in the
dissolution. serve as a
Judicial or Administrative
Commission. The
2
Page 27 of 42
Administrative
Commission. The
Committee may be
appointed as an ongoing
Administrative
Commission to approve
temporary relationships.
Committee may also be
appointed as an ongoing
Administrative
Commission to:
1) Dissolve pastoral
relationships and
dismiss Teaching
Elders according to the
Book of Order when
both the congregation
and the Pastor concur
in the dissolution.
2) Approve temporary pastoral relationships*.
3) Review terms of call or
invitations for all pastoral relationships,
excluding out-of-bounds
terms of calls, to ensure
that the terms meet the minimum established
standards.
4) Ordain and/or install Teaching Elders in accordance with provisions in this Book of Government.
5) Appoint advisors for Candidates Under
Care and mentors for
Commissioned Pastors.
[Note: section f is deleted here, being incorporated in section e above for
clarity.]
*If approved, the following footnote will appear in the text of the Book of Government: “The approval of temporary pastoral relationships is limited to the authority provided for in G.10-7. (Footnote approved by the 37th
General Assembly.”
3
Page 28 of 42
Descending Overture 17-C
To amend Book of Government 10-7, creating and defining the called position of ‘Transitional
Pastor’
4
B. Ordinarily, a person currently serving
in a temporary pastoral relationship is
not eligible to be called as Pastor of
Proposed Book of Government 10-7 Additions indicated in bold italics
10-7 Temporary Pastoral Relationships
A. Temporary Pastoral
Relationships may be established
with lawfully ordained Ministers
or Commissioned Pastors when
a church is without a pastor.
1. Transitional Pastor
a. A Transitional Pastor is
called by the Session to
serve during the period
a congregation is
seeking a Pastor. The
Transitional Pastor
intentionally leads the
congregation toward
greater health and
readiness for their next
Current Book of Government 10-7
10-7 Temporary Pastoral Relationships
A. When there is no Pastor, a Session
may invite a lawfully ordained
Minister in good standing or a
Commissioned Pastor to enter a
temporary pastoral relationship.
Although this invitation is not a call
as defined in G.9-5, the invitation and
authority to preach the Word, to
administer sacraments, and to
moderate Session must be approved
by the Presbytery or by the Ministerial
Committee acting as a Commission.
Page 29 of 42
that church. Should a Search Committee desire to consider any person who has served in a temporary capacity since the pulpit most recently became vacant, it must secure approval by a three-fourths vote of the Session and a three- fourths vote of the Ministerial Committee in order to proceed.
C. Types of temporary pastoral relationships
1. Stated Supply
A Stated Supply Pastor is invited to serve for a definite period of time of not less than one month and no more than twelve months. The Stated Supply may be appointed by the Presbytery to Moderate the Church Session during the time of service. Before the end of any invited period of service, the Session may extend the invitation for an additional period not to exceed twelve months with the approval of the Presbytery or of the Ministerial Committee acting as a
5
pastor and will ordinarily be appointed by the Presbytery to moderate the Session during the time of service.
b. Due to the temporary
nature of the call,
Transitional Pastors called
from another Presbytery in
the Evangelical
Presbyterian Church will
ordinarily maintain
membership in their home
presbytery.
c. Upon approval of the
Ministerial Committee,
Transitional Pastors are
introduced to the receiving
presbytery and enrolled as
corresponding members
(voice but not vote).
d. If a Transitional Pastor is
called from outside the
Evangelical Presbyterian
Church, the presbytery
shall examine and transfer
the pastor according to
applicable provisions of
this Book of Government.
2. Stated Supply Pastor a. A Stated Supply Pastor is invited by the Session to serve for a definite period of time, not less than one month and no more than twelve months.
The term of service is
renewable. Although this invitation is not a call, the
invitation to serve, authority
to preach the Word, to
administer sacraments, and to moderate Session must be
approved by the Presbytery or
by the Ministerial Committee,
Page 30 of 42
Descending Overture 17-D
To amend Book of Government 9-5A.1 for consistency within the Book of Government 10-7 and
to clarify that all calls to Teaching Elders must be approved by the Presbytery.
6
Commission.
2. Interim Supply
An Interim Supply Pastor is invited to serve during the period a congregation is seeking a Pastor. The Interim Supply Pastor may be appointed by the Presbytery to moderate the Session during the time of service.
3. Occasional Supply
An Occasional Supply Pastor is invited to serve regularly on specified days. Only the Ministerial Committee must
approve.
Current Book of Government 9-5A.1 Proposed Book of Government 9-5A.1 Additions in bold italics
if authorized by the
Presbytery. b. Stated Supply Pastors
from outside the Evangelical
Presbyterian Church are
invited by the Session and
shall be interviewed and approved by Presbytery or
the Ministerial Committee, if
authorized by the Presbytery.
3. Occasional Supply Pastor An Occasional Supply Pastor is invited to serve regularly on specified days. Only the Ministerial Committee must approve.
B. Ordinarily, a person currently serving in a temporary pastoral relationship is not eligible to be called as Pastor of that church. Should a Search Committee desire to consider any person who has served in a temporary capacity since the pulpit most recently became vacant, it must secure approval by a three-fourths vote of the Session and a three-fourths vote of the Ministerial Committee
in order to proceed.
Page 31 of 42
7
9-5 The office of Teaching Elder
Within the office of Teaching Elder
there are a variety of callings that
require ordination. God distributes to
each, gifts according to the common
needs of the Church. These include:
A. Pastor 1. Titles
A Teaching Elder may be
called by a congregation to be a
Pastor or Associate Pastor.
Sessions may call a Teaching
Elder as Assistant Pastor,
Transitional Pastor, or invite a
Teaching Elder as Stated
Supply Pastor, or Occasional
Supply Pastor. Presbytery must
approve all such positions. These are the only recognized
pastoral relationships for
Teaching Elders in a
congregational setting.
9-5 The office of Teaching Elder
Within the office of Teaching Elder
there are a variety of callings that
require ordination. God distributes to
each, gifts according to the common
needs of the Church. These include:
A. Pastor 1. Titles
A Teaching Elder may be
called by a congregation to be
a Pastor or Associate Pastor.
Sessions may call a Teaching
Elder as Assistant Pastor.
These are the only recognized
callings for Teaching Elders in
a congregational setting.
Page 32 of 42
Proposed By-Law Changes
Since the beginning of our presbytery, the Executive Council felt it necessary to intentionally lead churches into networking relationships. The MNC (Ministry Network Committee) provided opportunities for churches to develop networking relationships. Since many of our churches are now in both formal and informal networking relationships, it is the belief of both the Ministry Network Committee and the Executive Council that the need for an ongoing standing committee is no longer necessary.
Therefore, the Executive Council, with the concurrence of the chair of the Ministry Network Committee, proposes the following change to the By-Laws of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies;
eliminate from Article VI, Section 6.1 the words “Ministry Network Committee”
eliminate from Article VI, Section 6.6 Ministry Network Committee.
By this action we disband the Ministry Network Committee and thank those members for their work in the development of church networking in the Presbytery of the Alleghenies.
Timeline – According to our By-laws this is the first read of the proposed change to the By-Laws. The proposed changes will be mailed to all TE and Clerk of each Session at least 7 days prior to the meeting where the vote will take place. The second read and vote will take place at the 25th Stated Meeting in February of 2018.
ARTICLE VI
COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS
Section 6.1 Presbytery Committees and Commissions.
The Corporation shall have the following standing committees: Ministerial Committee, Church Development Committee, Ministry Network Committee, and Business Administration Committee. Presbytery Committees and Commissions shall consist of Teaching Elders and/or Ruling Elders of Presbytery. Special committees may be elected by Presbytery Members or appointed by the Moderator as Presbytery Members choose. Commissions may be established, as defined by The Book of Order, the Book of Government, ¶ 6-26, and these Bylaws, by three- fourths vote of the Presbytery Members. Presbytery Committees and Commissions shall have a quorum of a minimum of one-half the membership. The
Page 33 of 42
membership and length of service on Presbytery Committees and Commissions shall be determined by action of the Presbytery Members.
Section 6.6 Ministry Network Committee.
(a) Purpose. The mission of the Ministry Network Committee (“MNC”) isto take primary leadership in assisting churches in developing meaningful connections with one another to 1) assist in the work of the Presbytery Members, 2) develop and nurture pastoral relationships, and 3) enhance the development of ministry within Presbytery. It is recognized that ministry networking is a developing concept. Therefore the role of the MNC will need to be fluid by design in order to best serve the changing needs of Presbytery.
(b) Membership. There shall be six (6), nine (9), or twelve (12) members of this Committee, depending on the need, with an even or close to even membership of Ruling and Teaching Elders. Every attempt shall be made to have members geographically distributed throughout Presbytery. Each member of the Committee shall be elected to serve a 3-year term and shall be eligible to serve a second 3-year term. If elected to a second 3-year term, no member will be eligible to serve another term until after a 1-year time period elapses. To provide continuity, members shall be divided equally into 3 classes such that no more than 3 members rotate off at one time.
(c) Duties of the Ministry Network Committee:
(i) To support the administration and conduct of the Presbytery’s affairs;
(ii) To develop pastoral relationships;
(iii) To assist churches in developing ministry; and
Page 34 of 42
(iv) Additional responsibilities as may be assigned by Presbytery Members.
September 1, 2017
Ray Kinat, Stated Clerk Presbytery of the Alleghenies c/o Bay Presbyterian Church 25415 Lake Road Bay Village, OH 44140
Dear Ray,
The 37th General Assembly, meeting in Fair Oaks, California, took the following actions related to the Minutes of the Alleghenies Presbytery:
1. Approved responses to exceptions by the 36th General Assembly with comments:
A. While the Presbytery acknowledged insufficient information in the minutes, there was no motion to correct the Minutes. A template for recording corrections to approved minutes is in the Guidelines for Minutes per Act of Assembly 00-11.
B. Composition and actions of Administrative Commissions must be shown in the Minutes after the actions are taken by the Commission. It is not sufficient to only note that Commission Minutes are on file (G.21-1A.2).
2. Approved the Minutes of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies with the following
exceptions:
A. 20th Meeting, 20-17C (p. 424) - Actions of Administrative Commissions are required to be recorded in the Minutes (G.21-1A.2). Administrative Commissions for Ordination/Installation were appointed to act between presbytery meetings, but there is no report of their actions in the Minutes.
From the Minutes of the 22nd Stated Meeting – changes in italics 22-09 D As the commission of presbytery to ordain and install pastors,
the Ministerial Committee ordained and installed the following pastors who were received at the 20th Stated Meeting: TE Anthony Bianchini as Pastor at Lighthouse EPC on October 9,
2016
Page 35 of 42
TE Ben Burkholder as Assistant Pastor at North Park EPC on
October 9, 2016
TE Carl Moore as Pastor at Starkdale Presbyterian on November
13, 2016
TE Joshua Brown as Pastor at Bellefield Presbyterian on
November 13, 2016
Minutes of these commissions are on file with the Stated Clerk We acknowledge that Administrative Commission Minutes should be a
part of the regular Stated Meeting Minutes. We have taken steps to correct this effective with the 25th Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies.
B. 20th Meeting, 20-12A (p. 425, 3rd bullet) - An Administrative Commission was formed with three Teaching Elders and two Ruling Elders, contrary to G.21-1C.2.
6. “Administrative Commissions of Presbytery and General Assembly shall be composed of Teaching and Ruling Elders in proportion as near to two Ruling Elders to one Teaching Elder as possible. The minimum numbers and distribution of members shall be: A. For the General Assembly, not fewer than three Presbyteries. B. For the Presbytery, not fewer than five members, with Ruling Elders representing not fewer than two member churches.”
7. We realize that the Administrative Commission was formed contrary to G.21-1C.2. We also note that the G.21-1C.2 states “Administrative Commissions of Presbytery and General Assembly shall be composed of Teaching and Ruling Elders in proportion as near to two Ruling Elders to one Teaching Elder as possible. Therefore, we do not feel this was formed in contrary to G.21-1C.2. In the future we will make every effort to populate Administrative Commissions with the proper distribution of Ruling Elders to Teaching Elders.
3. The Presbytery Review Committee reported the following notations requiring responses to the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly regarding the minutes of the Alleghenies Presbytery. Rules of Assembly define such notations as having “insufficient information in the minutes to determine if an action is constitutional. Such notations are not read to the General Assembly but require a response to the Presbytery Review Committee” (Rules 9-11C.2). The responses may need to include action of the Presbytery to correct their minutes to show that constitutional requirements were followed.
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A. 20th Meeting, 20-12A (p. 425 3rd bullet) - Minutes do not list the churches represented by the Ruling Elders, so it is not possible to determine whether constitutional requirements of G.21-1C.2b (Ruling Elders representing not fewer than two member churches) were met.
From the Minutes of the 20th Stated Meeting – changes in italics 20-12A RE Allison then indicated that there were several actions that needed presbytery approval and presented these in an omnibus motion. Appoint the members of Executive Council to serve another year
as an Administrative Commission to receive churches into
transitional membership
Appoint the Ministerial Committee to serve another year as
Administrative Commission to: o ordain and install pastors o approve terms of call for Teaching Elders
Appoint RE Jason Dunn, Center Presbyterian; TE Chris Curtis, New
Covenant EPC; TE Doug Runyan, New Bedford EPC; TE Bill
Woodman, Center Presbyterian Church and RE Linda Braymer,
Covenant EPC – Sharon to serve another year as Administrative
Commission and temporary session for mission church Redeemer
Approve the minutes of the 19th Stated Meeting (posted on the
POA website for at least 30 days prior to the 20th Stated Meeting) Motion carried.
B. 20th Meeting, 20-11B (p. 423) - Possible misstatement. Presbytery has no need to approve a congregational meeting to dissolve a pastoral relationship. While the congregation must consult with the Ministerial Committee prior to calling a meeting to grant the honorary title of Pastor Emeritus, there is no need for Presbytery to approve the call for that congregational meeting. Presbytery is required to approve such action once it is taken. (G.7-1; 15-3)
From the Minutes of the 20th Stated Meeting – changes in italics
20-11B RE Peterson then indicated that there were several actions that needed presbytery approval. The first was a motion to approve the action taken during a Congregational Meeting of the Westminster Community Church to hold a Congregational Meeting to elect TE William Pawson, Pastor Emeritus. Motion carried.
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4. The Presbytery Review Committee reported the following notations to Stated Clerk of the General Assembly regarding the Minutes of the Alleghenies Presbytery.
A. 20th Stated Meeting. There is no evidence in the Minutes that a worship service happened. There should be an explicit reference in the record that the presbytery met for worship and who preached the Word of God.
From the Minutes of the 20th Stated Meeting – changes in italics
Adjourn (for dinner and worship) Moderator RE Jim Bandstra (at worship, 1st candidate will preach)
In accordance with Book of Order G. 12-2D Candidate Anthony Biachini preached at Evening Worship. The Presbytery acted to approve the preaching as adequately expounding the Word of God effectively.
Saturday, September 24th Morning Worship (2nd candidate will preach)
In accordance with Book of Order G. 12-2D Candidate Ben Burkholder preached at Morning Worship. The Presbytery acted to approve the preaching as adequately expounding the Word of God effectively.
5. General advice to the presbytery
A. There should be an explicit reference in the Minutes to a candidate preaching to fulfill the requirement of G.12-2D and that the Presbytery acted to approve the preaching as adequately expounding the Word of God effectively.
6. General Advice to Presbyteries:
A. The 37th General Assembly sent the following advice to all presbyteries:
1. Presbyteries are providing opportunities for candidates to preach as part of the examination process. However, the act of approving of that part of the exam is often neglected.
2. G.10-4G requires that a congregation appoint representatives to advocate its call to a Pastor or Associate Pastor on the floor of presbytery. Minutes indicate an inconsistency in presbytery practice on this matter. Presbyteries should examine their practice of acknowledging the presence of congregational representatives and providing opportunities for them to speak on behalf of the call their
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congregation has extended.
3. When responding to exceptions or notations requiring responses, it is also necessary to move to correct minutes when that is needed.
B. Stated Clerk’s Workshop
1. Practices of acknowledging and allowing congregational representatives to advocate for a call.
2. How to deal with notations requiring responses. When are corrections to minutes necessary and how is it done? Review Guidelines for Minutes regarding how to correct already approved Minutes.
3. Reviewing terms of call for pastors transferring to EPC with their churches.
4. Review forming Administrative Commissions and what must be recorded in Minutes
5. Minutes often do not have a record of seconds to motions from the floor, which is required by Robert’s Rules of Order.
6. Use of templates for recording ministerial/candidate “transactions” in the Minutes.
C. Ministerial Committee Chairs
1. Review terms of call for pastors transferring to EPC with their churches
2. Moving TE’s to associate or inactive rolls after 2 years without call,
D. Other recommendations to the General Assembly:
1. None
E. Referrals to the Stated Clerk
1. None
I appreciate the work that you and all our presbytery clerks do in the name of our Lord for the sake of His church. I have been encouraged to see the renewed energy and progress in many of our presbyteries to move in missional directions.
For the kingdom,
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Jerry Iamurri, Assistant Stated Clerk
cc. Presbytery Review Committee Jeff Jeremiah
Approve Minutes of Ministerial Committee appointed Administrative
Commission – Service of Installation/Ordination, Joe Rearick
“Per Book of Order BOG 13-1 A. and through the action of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies at it’s 24th Stated Meeting, an Administrative Commission served as the Installation/Ordination committee for Pastor Joe Rearick at Windy Gap Presbyterian Church on October 29, 2017. Members of the Committee included: TE Eric Toohey – Bethel Presbyterian TE Rich Herbster – Mt. Pleasant RE Melanie Hutson – Bethel Presbyterian RE Beth Ann Enders – Mt. Pleasant RE Bill Kendall – Mt. Pleasant RE Craig Lahtinen – Mt. Pleasant RE Gary Minch – Windy Gap RE Rich Pearce – Mt. Pleasant”
Approve Minutes of Ministerial Committee appointed Administrative Commission – Service of Installation/Ordination, Harper Brady
“Per Book of Order G 13-1 A and through the action of the Presbytery of the Alleghenies at it’s 24th Stated Meeting, an Administrative Commission served as the Ordination/Installation committee for Pastor Harper Brady at a duly called Service of Ordination/Installation at Mill Creek Evangelical Presbyterian Church on October 29, 2017. Members of the Committee included: TE Don Hurray TE Kevin Neal TE Kevin Gourley TE Jefferson Ellis RE Rich Corliss RE Tracey Heinlein RE Jason Stanton
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Report of the Church Development Committee 26th Stated Meeting – Presbytery of the Alleghenies
February 16-17, 2018
Committee Members: TE Doug Runyan (Chair), RE Bruce Allison, RE Jim Bandstra, TE Paul Becker, RE Rick Blair, TE Marc de Jeu, TE Tracy Edwards, TE Lindon Fowler, TE Chris Matthewson, TE Ryan Mowen, TE Kelly Negas, RE Mark Sharpnack, TE Rob Sparr, RE George Yates
The Church Development Committee of the POA met at North Park Church on January 29. Below is a summary of actions and discussions
1. Discussed our Inquiring churches. Stow church is moving
forward in their process of joining the POA. Natrona Heights, a
Transitional Church Member, is continuing their process of
becoming a Full Member Church
2. Reported that New Albany Church (located in the suburbs of
Columbus) passed their Elder Exam. They are looking to come
into the POA in April. They are still in process of dismissal from
their former denomination.
3. Vitality Seminars will be held on February 3rd at Tabernacle in
Youngstown Area, February 10th at Natrona Heights and also at
Seneca Hills on a date to be determined
4. Vitality Coaches are continuing to meet with their churches. Two new Coaches have been trained. The vital importance of coaches in the process of revitalization was stressed.
5. Church Planting team gave their report. They have been active in
guiding the POA to be at the forefront of church planting. It was
MSC to form a partnership with Trinity Seminary for the purpose
of training Church Planters and educating churches on the
possibility of being a parent or partner in a church plants. Rodger
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Woodworth is coordinating this partnership. Seminars and classes will be held, beginning in October of 2018.
6. Received a report from Gary Koerth on the church plant in
Youngstown. The Community Center is in the process of being
renovated. Summer meeting at the playground is being planned
to continue the process of building relationships. Community
leaders and business are being visited. Core group work is
beginning with the plan of beginning meeting in the Fall. Church
are invited to see the work firsthand by contacting Gary.
7. MSC to recommend to the POA to receive SOMA as a Full Member Church. Marc continues to guide the church and they are ready to move from a Mission Church to a Full Member Church
8. Continuing to work with a number of possible church plants and
church planters in the future
9. Continuing to place Transitional Pastors with churches. A number
of positions have recently been filled. Continuing to meet with
Session upon departure of pastor. Bob Stauffer is meeting with
our Transitional pastors for a time of support and discussion.
Churches are reminded that they must contact the POA as soon as
Pastors resign to begin the process. We are still in need of
additional Transitional Pastors to fill openings
10. Each Presbytery has been requested to appoint a
Presbytery Coordinator for Renewal and Revitalization. MSC to
appoint Bruce Allison as the Coordinator for the POA. He (along
with Bob Stauffer) will attend a meeting in February in Orland of
all Coordinators.
11. The national EPC office has informed us that the support
for Director of Revitalization will most likely not be available in
the future. Need to offset that $25,000 was discussed.
12. Discussed teaching at the next Presbytery meeting. Trinity
Seminary Church Planting partnership will be stressed
13. Next meeting of the CDC will be April 9th at 6:30 at
Tabernacle Church outside Youngstown.
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Roy A. Yanke – Executive Director for PIR Ministries Roy Yanke is the Executive Director of PIR Ministries, a national ministry of renewal and restoration for pastors and their families. Roy’s personal experience has shaped him in unique ways to come alongside the many pastors and their families who are “exited,” have fallen or are just plain burned out in ministry. Roy graduated from William Tyndale College and pastored for 17 years before experiencing his own “crash and burn.” Prior to joining PIR Ministries in 2012, Roy worked in a variety of manufacturing environments at a management level. As a part of his responsibilities of leading PIR Ministries, he has been a workshop presenter at ministry seminars on the topic of pastoral self-care; and has been the principal speaker for pastor’s retreats. He is a regular guest lecturer at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and contributes to the Institute for Congregational Trauma and Grief and for Biblical Leadership.com. Roy is also a spiritual formation mentor for seminary students attending the “Deploy” program of Grace Theological Seminary. Roy and his wife Deb live in the metro Detroit area. Because there is joy to be found in life… Roy play bass in the worship band, enjoys jazz music and hockey, and his dog, Keillor.
Workshop: “Only Human... facing the emotional challenges of ministry life." Life as a person in a ministry role can be dangerous. Serving with a heart that is whole, while we navigate the emotional challenges, requires an intentional process. Together, we can learn the importance of acknowledging both our humanity and the power of the Gospel while we craft a healthy way to do ministry. It is designed for both pastors and ruling elders. PIR Ministries brings over 20 years of experience in pastoral renewal and restoration to this seminar.
