ASSEMBLY MEETING - Presbytery of Great Rivers · 5/8/2018 · 05-08-18 Presbytery Assembly Minutes...

05-08-18 Presbytery Assembly Minutes Page 1 of 29

Presbytery of Great Rivers ASSEMBLY MEETING

May 8, 2018 STATED MEETING The Presbytery of Great Rivers met in Stated Meeting May 8, 2018 at Five Points in Washington, Illinois at 10:04 am. The meeting was called to order, opened with prayer and song by Moderator Rev. Ryan Landino. The purpose of the meeting was for worship. Moderator Rev. Ryan Landino and Moderator-Elect Elder Gary Terpstra led the meeting in worship and the transaction of business. An offering was collected for the Hands and Feet Initiative in the amount of $607. QUORUM & ROLL The roll was established by registration. The Moderator declared that a quorum was present with the roll established per registrations as follows: ' A ' = Absent ' EX ' = Excused CITY & TEACHING & RULING ELDERS ELDER COMMISSIONERS CHURCH SERVING CHURCHES 49 OR ALTERNATES 40 A=Absent E=Excused Adair, West Prairie ..................... A ....... Mr. Jeremy Westlake ................................. N/A

Aledo, College Ave ..................... ......... Rev. Ann Elyse Van Winkle (1st listing) ... Lance Slavish

Aledo, Sunbeam ......................... A ....... CLP Sue Shike ........................................... N/A

Alexis, Norwood ......................... A ....... CLP Gary Pullen ........................................ N/A

Athens, Indian Point ................... ......... CLP Sandi Woodard ................................. N/A

Bartonville, Trinity ....................... A ....... Rev. Steve Barch ....................................... N/A

Biggsville, United ........................ ......... CLP Kathie Whitson ................................. Marilyn Simmons

Bloomington, Saint. Luke ........... ......... Rev. Andrew Gifford ................................ John Otto

Bloomington, Second ................. ......... Rev. Kathy Stoner Lasala ........................ Martha Miller

................................................... ......... ................................................................... Tom Young

Bushnell, First ............................ ......... Rev. Elissa Bailey ..................................... N/A

Buffalo Hart ................................ ......... Rev. Mary E. Jessup ................................ Janice Wray

Canton, First ............................... ......... Rev. Tim Bauler ........................................ N/A

Carlinville, Federated ................. A ....... Rev. Megan Biddle ..................................... N/A

Carrollton, First ........................... A ....... Kirby Ballard ............................................... N/A

Carthage, First ........................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Carthage, Fountain Green ......... A ....... Mr. Mark Hanson ........................................ N/A

Chatham, Chatham .................... A ....... Rev. James Reitz ....................................... N/A

Chenoa, First .............................. ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Clayton, First .............................. ......... Rev. Kay Daniel ........................................ N/A

Clinton, Clinton ........................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... Leland Wright

Coal Valley, First ........................ E ....... Rev. Tim W. Snart ...................................... N/A

Danvers, First ............................. ......... Rev. Kathy Mitchell .................................. Bonnie Melick

Delavan, First ............................. ......... Rev. Jean Sparks ..................................... Verbie Hoffman

Divernon, First ............................ A ....... Rev. Steve Smith ....................................... N/A

E. Moline, First ........................... A ....... Rev. Rebecca A. Sherwood ....................... Denise Maxwell

Edwards, Korean ........................ A ....... Rev. Hyaekwang Kim ................................. N/A

Elmwood, First .......................... ......... Rev. Marla Bauler ..................................... N/A

Eureka, Eureka .......................... ......... CLP Bob Montgomery ............................. Gerry Underwood

Farmington, First ........................ A ....... Rev. Linda Philabaun ................................. N/A

Galesburg, First .......................... ......... Rev. Shawn Smith .................................... Don LeFebvre

Geneseo, First ............................ ......... Rev. Ryan Landino ................................... Steve Durian

Green Valley, First ..................... A ....... CLP Charles Houston ................................ N/A


Greenview, United ...................... ......... CLP Stephanie McCullough .................... Kathy McCullough

Hamilton, Bethel ......................... A ....... CLP Robert Wagner ................................... N/A

Ipava, United .............................. ......... Rev. Gary Elg (1st Listing) ......................... Dean Bidney

Jacksonville, First ....................... ......... Rev. Jonathan Warren ............................. Dave Truesdell

Kirkwood, Westminster .............. A ....... CLP Pam Moore ......................................... N/A

Knoxville, First ............................ ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

LeRoy, First ................................ ......... Rev. Tim Doty ........................................... Naomi Chaplin

Lewistown, First ......................... ......... CLP Penny Frame .................................... N/A

Lincoln, First ............................... ......... Rev. Adam Quine ..................................... Karen Sams Davis

Macomb, First ............................ ......... Ms. Erin Marth........................................... Gene Miller

Macomb, Scotland Trinity ........... ......... Rev. Gary Elg (2nd Listing) ........................ N/A

Mason City, United ..................... ......... Rev. Charlotte Poetschner ...................... N/A

Media, Community ..................... A ....... Mr. Phillip Cooper (1st listing) ..................... N/A

Middletown, First ........................ ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Milan, First .................................. ......... Rev. Joyce Chamberlin ............................ Debbie Bonnett

Monmouth, Faith ........................ ......... Rev. Charles Cunningham ...................... Lolla Ballard

Monmouth, Sugar Tree ............. ......... Rev. Daniel Ott .......................................... Charles Michael

Morton, First ............................... A ....... CLP Mike Claver ........................................ N/A

Mt. Sterling, Mt. Sterling ............. A ....... Mr. Richard Young ..................................... N/A

Nauvoo, First .............................. A ....... Mr. Mark Anderson ..................................... N/A

New Windsor, United ................. ......... Rev. Mark Bedford ................................... Dan Sedwick

Niota, Appanoose Faith .............. ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Normal, First ............................... ......... Rev. Lawrence R. Gaylord ....................... Bob Beerup

Normal, First ............................... A ....... Rev. Matt Wilcox

Normal, New Covenant .............. ......... Rev. Robert W. Ryder .............................. N/A

Normal, New Covenant .............. ......... Rev. Susan M. Ryder ................................ N/A

Oneida, United ........................... ......... Rev. Karna Peterson ................................ Larry Lawson

Orion, Beulah ............................. ......... CLP Sheila Sheer ..................................... Donna Metzler

Pekin, First ................................. E ....... Rev. Samuel Gibb ...................................... Nancy Heaton

Peoria, First Fed ......................... ......... Rev. Forrest Krummel .............................. N/A

Peoria, First Fed ......................... E ....... Rev. Zach Lysdahl

Peoria, United ............................ ......... Rev. Laura Reason ................................... N/A

Peoria, Westminster ................... ......... Rev. Denise Clark Jones ......................... Suellen Kirkwood

Perry, Perry ................................ A ....... Rev. John Nelson ....................................... N/A

Petersburg, Central .................... ......... Ms. Diane Ludington ................................ Alice Studzinski

Pleasant Plains, Farmingdale .... ......... Rev. Lonna Chang-Ren Lee .................... Wendy Volker

Quincy, Ellington ........................ A ....... Mr. Ron Cox ............................................... N/A

Reynolds, Hamlet Perryton ........ ......... Rev. Harry Losey ...................................... N/A

Rio, Rio ....................................... ......... Rev. Maura McGrath Nagle ...................... N/A

Rock Island, Broadway .............. ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Rock Island, Gloria Dei .............. ......... Rev. Drew Nagle (1st listing) ...................... N/A

Rock Island, Good Shepard ....... ......... Rev. James Benson ................................. Tom Bulger

Rock Island, South Park ............. ......... Rev. Blake Severson ................................ Sherrill Mixer

Rushville, First ............................ ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Seaton, Center ........................... ......... Rev. Ann Elyse Van Winkle (2nd Listing) . Marcia Duncan

Sherrard, Community ................. ......... Rev. Drew Nagle (2nd Listing) .................... N/A

Springfield, First ......................... ......... Rev. Susan Phillips .................................. Mike Orr

Springfield, Hope ........................ ......... Rev. Charles S. Goodman ....................... N/A

Springfield, Knox ........................ A ....... Rev. Paula Carmichael .............................. N/A


Springfield, Korean ..................... A ....... Rev. Jaechul Kim ....................................... N/A

Springfield, Third ........................ ......... Rev. Joe Eby ............................................. Tom Turnbull

Springfield, Westminster ............ A ....... Rev. Blythe Kieffer ..................................... Alan Wallace

Springfield, Westminster ............ ......... Rev. Trajan McGill .................................... Kathy Germeraad

Stronghurst, Stronghurst ............ A ....... Mr. Phillip Cooper (2nd Listing) ................... Virginia Ross

Tallula, Rock Creek .................... ......... Rev. David Daniel ..................................... N/A

Viola, United ............................... A ....... Rev. Matt Downey ...................................... Dick Whittington

Virden, First ................................ ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Virginia, First .............................. A ....... Rev. Marcia Forman ................................... N/A

Virginia, Sangamon .................... A ....... Mr. Carl Wiggins ........................................ N/A

Warsaw, First ............................. ......... CLP Dan Colvin ....................................... N/A

Washington, Washington ........... ......... Rev. Tim Mitchell ...................................... Terry Duchien

White Hall, First .......................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Woodhull, United ........................ ......... Rev. Cheyanna Losey .............................. N/A

Woodson, Unity .......................... A ....... Rev. Robert Kerr ........................................ N/A

Yates City, Faith ......................... ......... Rev. Marla Bauler (2nd Listing).................. Mary Watts VALIDATED, AT LARGE, HONORABLY RETIRED, MINISTERS PRESENT TOTAL: 11 Rev. Cheryl Lunday, HR Rev. Beth Hamilton, VM Rev. Jennifer Sakata, M@L Rev. Gerry Boutelle, HR Rev. Teri Ott, VM Rev. Rick Tindall, HR Rev. Sterritt Collins, VM Rev. David Esche, HR Rev. Susan Ballar-Sherphard,VM Rev. Carolyn Weber, HR Rev. Jessica Hawkinson, VM ADMINISTRATION & VISIONING TEAM MEMBERS, COMMITTEE CHAIRS TOTAL: 01 (Not Listed Elsewhere - voting members of Presbytery) Elder Craig Mousty, Admin Team Elder Kent Wurmnest-COM Chair MODERATOR / MODERATOR ELECT OR PRIOR MODERATOR TOTAL: 04 (Not Listed Elsewhere - voting members of Presbytery) Elder Gary Davis CLP Sue Sawers Elder Gary Terpstra Elder Linda Miller OTHERS PRESENT – Pby committee members/corresponding members (voice without vote) TOTAL: 04 Elder Merle Fox, COM Elder Roger Mixer, COM Elder Mike Paddock, Giddings Lovejoy Rev. Dr. Robert Reynolds, Presbytery of Chicago OTHERS PRESENT - Ruling Elders, Visitors, Inquirers/Candidates (without voice/vote): TOTAL: 07Mag Paddock Charlotte Cronin

Pat Turnbull Bill Strawbridge

Glenda Tuttle Paul Stroup

Brenda Eddings

PRESBYTERY STAFF TOTAL: 02 Amy Gardner Patti Parrish TOTAL ATTENDANCE 118


SHARING CHRIST’S LOVE Rev. Blake Severson, pastor at South Park, Rock Island, was introduced as a new teaching elder in our presbytery. New ruling elders were introduced. MSA to seat the following corresponding members:

• Bridge Consultant Rev. Bob Reynolds, Chicago Presbytery

• Synod Executive Rev. Sara Dingman, Synod of Lincoln Trails.

• Board of Pensions Representative Ken Green

• Rev. Mike Paddox, Giddings-Lovejoy Presbytery OPENING BUSINESS

• The Assembly MSA the Docket as printed. CURRENT BUSINESS

• MSA the Omnibus motion which included the: o Stated Clerk Report (Appendix A) o Nominating Committee Report (Appendix B) o Financial Report (Appendix C)

• Presentation on Mandatory Reporting – Rev. Andy Gifford o Rev. Andy Gifford, Pastor at St. Luke Union Church in Bloomington, IL. Andy gave a

presentation on mandatory reporting as a fulfillment and requirement following a PJC case against Rev. Andy Gifford. The presentation was a requirement from the findings of the PJC.

• Visioning Team (Appendix D) o Rev. Joe Eby, Chair, gave the report of the visioning team.

▪ There is grant money that is still available through the various grants! ▪ A video was shown from Geneseo, First and Woodhull, United as they tried a

new ministry project. They received a Bucks for Blessings Grant as they worked together. They participated in a feeding program to fell those who want to come and participate at Mt. Zion Baptist church in East Moline, IL.

▪ Rev. Carolyn Weber spoke about the Hands and Feet Initiative. We will be partnering with the Presbytery of Giddings-Lovejoy. This special mission event will be taking place during the 2018 General Assembly in Ferguson, MO. This is a whole new way of thinking about doing our ministry. This actually started two years ago and we are participating soon. There is a brochure available online and on the tables.

▪ MSA to receive the report.


• Leadership Team (Appendix E) o In response to a motion from the floor at our November 2017 meeting, the leadership of

the presbytery was charged with providing guidance for churches in the event of an active shooter. After time of prayer, reflection, and discussion around the extent of such a need for more guidance, we decided to expand this topic to a broad, comprehensive approach towards the various kinds of emergency preparedness we are susceptible to as a community of churches (medical emergency, tornado, flood, gun violence, fire, etc). We identified a need to engage sensitive conversations with more intentionality, to take a closer look at how other presbyteries have created disaster protocols, and to have structures of our own in place so we are ready to act in the event of a disaster (for which there have been in our presbytery in the past). We will be in the process of seeking to expand our team to include those already with training and experience in this area, and hope to come back to the assembly with a learning component around this work.

o MSA to receive the report.

• Committee on Ministry (Appendix F)

Report of Committee on Ministry—TE Shawn Smith

• MA Ipava Presbyterian Church’s request that two of their elders be allowed to serve a third consecutive term on the session: Ruling Elders Derrick Porter and Lana Porter.

• MA Adair-West Prairie Presbyterian Church’s request that two of their elders be allowed to serve a third consecutive term on the session: Ruling Elders Dorla Hayes and Robert Kimball.

• MSA to receive the report.

Illinois of Conference of Churches

• A report was given by Laurie Vial, executive director. o Laurie spoke to the work they do including a new annual event of a prayer meeting at

the Capital Building. o The committee’s main focus is keeping an eye on issues that are happening on the

state level and the national level. They also look to see what denominations are working on which issues.

WORSHIP The offering for today will go towards scholarships for our presbytery mission trip to the Hand and Feet Initiative at General Assembly this June. A prayer of dedication was given over the offering by Carolyn Weber. Candidate for the Lead Presbyter for Transformation and Moderator Rev. Ryan Landino preached on the Scripture Acts 2:1-13. He spoke on the “fire” that was spreading across the Presbytery and how each church is doing new or exciting things that the local churches were doing. The Holy Spirit is working to spread that “fire” across the Presbytery. Individuals were invited to write something their church was doing on a flame and were to put it on the Presbytery map. ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Prayers for Kent Wurnmest family

• Synod of Lincoln Trails Synod Council

• Nominating Committee is still looking to fill positions!

• Wilderness Camp still needing more children to sign up!

• LUX Theological Institute still has spots available!

• #metoo #churchtoo

• Springfield, First has guests from Cuba coming and all are invited.

• Interfaith group is having their meeting May 15th.

• Jesus Seminar coming in September.

• The need for mandatory reporting is crucial.


CONTINUING BUSINESS Administration Team (Appendix G)

• Chair, Rev. Chuck Goodman spoke to the Administration Team.

• MSA Distribution of Ebersolt Funds for 2018: o Indian Point United Presbyterian Church, Athens: $2,330.01 o United Presbyterian Church, Greenview: $2,330.00 o Central Presbyterian Church, Petersburg: $2,330.00 o Rock Creek Presbyterian Church, Tallula: $2,330.00

▪ Total Funds for Distribution: $9,320.01

• MA that the Presbyterian Church in Mason City to sell their manse. They will do so with a certified appraisal that they will obtain through the lender.

• MA the Easement Agreement for the Eureka Presbyterian Church to grant an easement for their neighbors to access the back of the church property. This will allow the Advocate Eureka Hospital to access the north door of their maintenance building, through both the church property and the neighboring property.

• Through much discussion and consideration, the Administrative Team will withdraw all funds from Raymond James Investment Banking and Busey Bank Wealth Management so all investment accounts will be handled through the PCUSA Presbyterian Foundation, New Covenant.

• Chuck spoke to the changes in the way the Administration Team plans to prepare the budget for the next year and for a five year plan as well. All chairs of committees will be invited to participate in the process.

• Chuck spoke to the possible change that is coming with GA per capita. This is something to just be aware of at this point.

• MSA to receive the Administration Team report.

Bridge Consultant

• Bridge Consultant, Rev. Bob Reynolds spoke about the transformation that has been taking place already.

• Romans 12:2. “Do not be conformed, but transformed” o There may not be an exact definition of what it means for us to be transformed but

we are to seek the will of God of what this means for each one of us and for our Presbytery.

o Bob gave a thank you for his time in this presbytery.

Lead Presbyter for Transformation Search Team (Appendix D)

• The present search committee members: Gary Davis, Penny Frame, Teri Ott, Kathie Whitson, Jonathan Warren, and Cheyanna Losey presented Ryan Landino for the position.

o The team briefly outlined their process.

• After a careful and Spirit-led discernment process, the Lead Presbyter for Transformation Nominating Committee moves that the Reverend Ryan Landino be elected and affirmed as the Lead Presbyter of the Presbytery of Great Rivers. No second needed. The floor was opened for questions of the search committee. There were no questions. The floor was opened for questions for the candidate Rev. Ryan Landino. Joy that the 60 second sermons will continue!

o MSA to arrest the examination. o Following Ryan leaving the room, the floor was opened for additional questions

for the search committee. o Sustain and approve the vote. o APPROVED with GREAT REJOICING and SINGING! 86 yes, 2 no, 1 abstained.

• The Lead Presbyter for Transformation Nominating Committee moves the terms of the contract. No second needed. Approved.

• The Lead Presbyter for Transformation Nominating Committee moves that for the first year of his contract, that the committee continues as a resource of spiritual support for Rev. Ryan Landino as he transitions into this new position.

o No second needed. Approved.


• Gifts for Ryan to encourage him in his ministry.

• Teri Ott prayed for Ryan and for the future of the presbytery.

• MSA to receive the report.

Report of Personnel Committee

• CLP Sandi Woodard presented the personnel committee report.

• MSA the Stated Clerk’s job description.

• MSA the Personnel Committee report. NEW BUSINESS Nominating Committee (Appendix G)

• The nominating committee brings to the assembly the following names: o Administration Team: Rev. Kathy Stoner-Lasala, Bloomington, for the class of

2018 o Committee on Ministry: Rev. Susan Philips, Springfield, for the class of 2019 o Committee on Ministry: CLP Kathie Whitson, Biggsville, for the class of 2019 o Committee on Preparation for Ministry: Elder Lance Slavish, Aledo, for the class

of 2020 CLOSE IN WORSHIP The Assembly sang together in praise for God’s blessings. The Moderator Rev. Ryan Landino closed the meeting with a blessing and charge to the assembly. The Moderator-Elect confirmed adjournment at 2:30 with prayer. The next Presbytery Assembly meeting will take place on Saturday, September 22nd at Blackburn College in Carlinville, IL.


APPENDIX A Stated Clerk’s Report

Recommended action to the floor of Presbytery:

THAT THE STATED CLERK’S REPORT BE ENTERED INTO THE MINUTES AND THE RECOMMENDATIONS THEREIN BE ADOPTED.

1. MEMBERS TO BE RECEIVED, DISMISSED, HONORABLY RETIRED, REMOVED, OR DECEASED

THAT the following minister(s) be received: Rev. Erin Marth from North Central Iowa Presbytery Rev. Annie McMillan from the Long Island Presbytery

THAT the following minister(s) be listed as Honorably Retired: N/A THAT the following minister(s) be Dismissed:

Rev. Charles Hardwick to the Chicago Presbytery THAT the following minister(s) be Removed from Rolls: N/A Deceased:

Rev. Samuel Stuart, February 21, 2018 2. CURRENT ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSIONS

THAT the following commissions be dismissed be dismissed, having completed its work:

− Dismiss with thanks the Commission that Install Rev. Erin Marth as Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Macomb on March 4, 2018.

− Dismiss with thanks the Commission that Commissioned Elder Gary Pullen as Commissioned Lay Pastor

3. PERMANENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION None 4. SESSION RECORDS REVIEW None 5. PRESBYTERY RECORDS REVIEW None 6. CORRESPONDENCE

Request from United Presbyterian Church in Ipava, for waiver/exempt from term limits for elders. Request from West Prairie Presbyterian Church in Adair, for waiver/exempt from term limits for elders.

7. BILLS & OVERTURES None 8 STATISTICAL REPORTS FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2017

See Attached 9. SYNOD OF LINCOLN TRAILS See Attached


APPENDIX B Nominating Committee Report

There following openings need to be filled. If you are interested in serving contact a Nominating Committee member.

RE = Ruling Elder TE/MOWS = Teaching Elder/Minister of Word and Sacrament

1. Administration Team - TE term ending December 2018 2. Committee on Ministry (COM) - RE term ending December 2019 3. Committee on Preparation for Ministry (CPM) – RE term ending December 2020 4. Visioning Team - RE term ending December 2020

It remains a need of the Nominating Committee that volunteers contact us; and for recommendations of people to contact be shared with us. During the later summer we will begin contacting people and would appreciate a full list of people to contact before our August committee meeting. If you have questions, contact a member of the committee. Thank you. In Christ, The Nominating Committee Chair Cheyanna Losey [email protected] Gary Terpstra [email protected] Julie Kasa [email protected] Mark Merrill [email protected] Millie Eldridge [email protected] Charles Cunningham [email protected] Charles Morris [email protected] Charlotte Poetschner [email protected] Nate Rush [email protected]


APPENDIX C Financial Report

Guide to the Presbytery’s Financial Statements

The order in which the statements are normally prepared and the nature of the data presented in each statement are as follows:

1. Statement of Support and Revenue and Expenses - a summary of the Presbytery’s support and revenue, expenses, and changes in net assets for a specific period of time 2. Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets - a snapshot of PGR assets as of a specific date, usually at the close of the last day of a month 3. Shared Mission and Per Capita Support - a statement of our individual churches’ contributions to Shared Mission and to Per Capita

The Statement of Support and Revenue and Expenses reflects the Presbytery’s support and revenue, expenses, and changes in net assets (fund balances) for a certain period of time. It shows the Presbytery’s sources of income and how the Presbytery has used its resources. The statement shows the changes in restricted, temporary restricted, permanently restricted and total net assets. A Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Assets is sometimes referred to as a “balance sheet” because it shows how the two sides of the accounting equation “assets minus liabilities equal net assets” as of the end of a period such as a month, quarter, or year. The assets section of this financial statement normally presents assets in the order that they will be converted into cash or used in operations. Cash is presented first, followed by other current assets. Then “fixed assets” are listed, such as equipment. The liabilities and fund balance section usually presents each liability in the order that the liabilities will be paid off. Account Payables are normally listed first, followed by other current liabilities and then long term liabilities are listed. All the liabilities are then totaled. Next, net assets (fund balances) are listed. Unrestricted are normally listed first, followed by temporary restricted funds (monies on which a donor-imposed restriction that may be terminated either by the church's actions or the passage of time which permits your church to use the funds only as specified.), permanently restricted funds (funds that are restricted by the donor for a designated purpose or time restriction that will never expire.), and finally investments. All net assets are then totaled. Last of all liabilities and net assets are totaled. This total should equal the total assets. If you have any questions about the Financial Statements, you are invited to contact either the Presbytery’s Treasurer, Gary Davis, or the Presbytery’s Accountant, Amy Gardner. Gary’s telephone number is (217) 737-3359 and his email address is [email protected]. Amy may be reached at the Presbytery Office, (309) 683-6980.

mailto:[email protected]




\





APPENDIX D Visioning Team Report

The Visioning Team did not meet in April due to the lack of a quorum. The following grants were approved by e-vote. 1. Bucks for Blessing – Bloomington-St. Luke’s Union, $1,000 for VBS 2. Consulting Grant – Bloomington-Second, $2,500 for work with Ministry Architects Team members Carolyn Weber and Alex Lysdahl are working on plans for PGR to participate in the GA Hands & Feet Initiative in St. Louis. Work with St. Louis Urban Missions through First Presbyterian Church in Ferguson, MO is planned. See the brochure included with this report or find it online at the link below. www.greatriverspby.org/uploads/2/4/5/6/24561669/pgr_hands_and_feet_2018_brochure.pdf

http://www.greatriverspby.org/uploads/2/4/5/6/24561669/pgr_hands_and_feet_2018_brochure.pdf


APPENDIX E Leadership Team and Moderator’s Report

As moderator of the presbytery, I am tasked with chairing the Leadership Team, which consists of the chairs of all the presbytery standing committees. We are primarily responsible for organizing the work of the presbytery, and specifically for managing the assembly meetings. We gathered as a team on Wednesday, April 25th at the Presbytery Office in time for all the committees to have concluded their work since the last meeting, and also give us time to create an upcoming assembly meeting docket responsive to the needs of the presbytery. We began with a devotional that drew on our biblical imagination of the wilderness story to discuss where in the wilderness we felt we were as presbytery. A few things of note: EVALUATIONS: We were grateful for the increased number of evaluations that were submitted after the last assembly meeting. We heard that Mark Sundby’s Ethics Training was very well received, and I committed to sending a thank you card to Mark on behalf of the Leadership Team. We also heard a request for vegetarian meal options, which we will do better to accommodate moving forward. DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: In response to a motion from the floor at our November 2017 meeting, the leadership of the presbytery was charged with providing guidance for churches in the event of an active shooter. After time of prayer, reflection, and discussion around the extent of such a need for more guidance, we decided to expand this topic to a broad, comprehensive approach towards the various kinds of emergency preparedness we are susceptible to as a community of churches (medical emergency, tornado, flood, gun violence, fire, etc). We identified a need to engage sensitive conversations with more intentionality, to take a closer look at how other presbyteries have created disaster protocols, and to have structures of our own in place so we are ready to act in the event of a disaster (for which there have been in our presbytery in the past). We will be in the process of seeking to expand our team to include those already with training and experience in this area, and hope to come back to the assembly with a learning component around this work. CHURCH LEGAL ISSUES: Stated Clerk Elissa Bailey shared with us learnings she received about some ways that our churches can be better protected from liability. Those findings and suggestions will be shared through a letter to the clerks of session of our presbytery. PRESBYTERY MISSION TRIP: Thanks to Joe Eby, the Visioning Team, and the resourceful point-persons assigned to look into how we can get involved in the “Hands and Feet” Initiative at the General Assembly in St. Louis this summer, we heard how a mission trip plan has come out of those discussions. We approved that the offering of the May 8th meeting will go towards scholarships for presbyters going on that trip. See Vision Team for more details. BUDGET PLANNING: We heard a report from Chuck Goodman of the Administration Team about how Admin is going to be planning both a long-term budget that looks at the next three years as well as the 2019 budget. Leadership Team members were counted among others who will be invited into discussions about the direction of our budget. We also supported Admin’s decision to communicate openly to the presbytery about actions being presented to the General Assembly this summer around per capita, so that we are prepared for what may or may not happen this summer. MAKING CONNECTIONS: One of my personal greatest pleasures in serving as moderator remains the chance to represent the presbytery at different events in the life of our local churches. I (Moderator Ryan Landino) had the honor of installing Rev. Erin Marth at Macomb on March 4th, while Moderator-Elect Gary Terpstra installed Commissioned Lay Pastor Gary Pullen at Monmouth, Alexis on April 8th.


THE LEADERSHIP OF OUR BRIDGE PRESBYTER: In consultation with the staff, our Bridge Consultant Bob Reynolds collated a list of considerations in the form of a memo for how we can function more smoothly and collaboratively as a Leadership Team with the staff. Between our last meeting and this one, we made time to review each item. As this was our last scheduled meeting with Bob, we thanked him for his presence and leadership in our time of transition. He shared as a way of closing thoughts that he sees a great deal of quality leadership in our presbytery, and that we should continue to foster this leadership without becoming leader-dependent on the new Lead Presbyter for Transformation. As I shared in my last report, on behalf of the Leadership Team, we commit to working together with a spirit of collaboration, knowing that though we and our presbytery are not perfect, we know that God’s faithfulness to us is. I am happy to serve as your moderator, and am proud of our leadership. Among us and in us, I believe we have all of the resources we will need to do the work that God has called us to, faithfully, and well. Respectfully submitted, Ryan, Moderator of Great Rivers Presbytery Rev. Ryan J. Landino, Pastor First Presbyterian Church of Geneseo, IL Office: 309-944-5189 Cell: 908-451-1062 Email: [email protected]


APPENDIX F Committee On Ministry (COM) Report

COM Actions at its February 27, 2018 Meeting Approved the following: A. The request to transfer Rev. Chip Hardwick to the Chicago Presbytery.

B. Clinton Church: Appointed Rev. Adam Quine as moderator.

C. Annual Reports received from Validated and At-large Minister Members:

Rev. Susan Baller-Shepard Rev. Julie Blythe Rev. Beunghoon Choi Rev. Beth Hamilton Rev. Alexandra Lysdahl Rev. Dr. Teri M. Ott Rev. Chip Roland Rev. Jennifer E. Sakata Rev. Darwin Smith Rev. Dr. Almut M. Spalding Rev. Dr. Paul Spalding

D. 2018 Terms of Call Renewals:

Rev. Marla Bauler, Elmwood-First Rev. Tim Bauler, Canton-First Rev. Joyce Chamberlin, Milan-First Rev. Denise Clark Jones, Peoria-Westminster Rev. David Daniel, Tallula-Rock Creek Rev. Gary Elg, Macomb-Scotland Trinity Rev. Andy Gifford, Bloomington-St Luke Rev. Chuck Goodman, Springfield-Hope Rev. Blythe Kieffer, Springfield-Westminster Rev. Lonna Lee, Pleasant Plains-Farmingdale Rev. Cheyanna Losey, Woodhull-United Rev. Trajan McGill, Springfield-Westminster Rev. Adam Quine, Lincoln-First Rev. Robert Ryder, Normal-New Covenant Rev. Sue Ryder, Normal-New Covenant Rev. Shawn Smith, Galesburg-First Rev. Tim Snart, Coal Valley-First Rev. Jean Sparks, Delavan-First Rev. Ann Elyse Van Winkle, Aledo-College Ave Rev. Ann Elyse Van Winkle, Seaton-Center Rev. John Warren, Jacksonville-First

E. Contract Renewals:

Rev. Steve Barch, Bartonville-Trinity Rev. Megan Biddle, Carlinville-Federated Commissioned Lay Pastor Mike Claver, Morton-First Commissioned Lay Pastor Ron Cox, Quincy-Ellington


Rev. Charles Cunningham, Monmouth-Faith United Rev. Matthew Downey, Viola-United Rev. Joe Eby, Springfield-Third Rev. Gary Elg, Ipava-United Rev. Laurie Hill, Clinton PC Commissioned Lay Pastor Charles Houston, Green Valley-First Rev. Mary Jessup, Riverton-Buffalo Hart Rev. Robert Kerr, Woodson-Unity Rev. Maura McGrath Nagle, Rio PC Commissioned Lay Pastor Pam Moore, Kirkwood-Westminster Rev. Karna Peterson, Oneida-United Commissioned Lay Pastor Carl Wiggins, Virginia-Sangamon Valley Contract between Mr. Gary Pullen and Norwood-Alexis The formation of a Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) for Bloomington-Second. The installation commission to install Erin Marth as pastor at Macomb, First

F. The formation of a PNC for Monmouth, Faith

ACTION ITEMS FOR MAY 8, 2018 ASSEMBLY

• Recommend that Assembly approve Ipava PC’s request that two of their elders be allowed to serve a third consecutive term on the session: Ruling Elders Derrick Porter and Lana Porter.

• Recommend that Assembly approve Adair-West Prairie PC’s request that two of their elders be allowed to serve a third consecutive term on the session: Ruling Elders Dorla Hayes and Robert Kimball.

COM Actions at its March 20, 2018 Meeting Approved the following:

A. Administrative Commission to install Gary Pullen as Commissioned Lay Pastor at Alexis-Norwood B. The following Annual Reports:

Rev. David Barton Rev. Jessica Hawkinson Rev. Robert Kerr Rev. Tim Mitchell Rev. Anna C. Saxon Rev. Sterrett Collins (change Minister of Word and Sacrament status to #501)

C. Terms of Call Renewals:

Rev. Ryan Landino, Geneseo-First Rev. Larry Gaylord, Normal-First Rev. Matthew Wilcox, Normal-First Rev. James Reitz, Chatham PC Rev. Drew Nagle, Rock Island-Gloria Dei

D. 2018 Contracts

Rev. Harry Losey, Reynolds-Hamlett Perryton (renewal) Rev. Ken Shedenhelm, Knoxville-First (original)

E. Revised Ministry Partner Report form for use by the COM. F. Authorize Sterrett Collins to moderate the Session of Carthage-First.


G. Farmington-First mission study with note to encourage describing current mission outreach when completing their Ministry Information Form (MIF).

H. Authorize Tim Mitchell to moderate the Session of Washington PC.

ACTION ITEMS FOR ASSEMBLY None COM Actions at its April 24, 2018 Meeting Approved the following:

A. White Hall-First request to seek Board of Pensions waiver of vacancy dues.

B. Dismiss Rev. Becki Mallozzi to Lehigh Presbytery.

C. Receive Rev. Annie McMillan from Long Island Presbytery.

D. Rev. Troy Agema Annual Report.

E. Rev. Carl Anderson 2017 Annual Report.

F. Motion passed to approve the following: Rev. Sam Gibb 2018 Terms of Call Renewal, Pekin-First Rev. Susan Phillips 2018 Terms of Call Renewal, Springfield-First Rev. Tim (Laurence) Doty 2018 new contract, Clinton PC Rev. Zach Lysdahl 2018 contract renewal, Peoria-First Federated Rev. Annie McMillan Pastoral Call, Leroy-First Elder Kathy Whitson new contract, Biggsville-United Rev. Dale Bolton Parish Associate contract renewal, Rock Island-Good Shepherd CLP Sheila Sheer 2018 contract renewal, Orion-Beulah Rev. Blake Severson Terms of Call Renewal, Rock Island-South Park Confirmed Rev. Becki Mallozzi’s call papers are in order.

G. The following was approved with one abstention. Rev. Mark Bedford’s 2018 Terms of Call: Per the

request of the New Windsor church, that the congregation be granted an exemption from the minimum terms of call for their pastor since their membership numbers and finances do not allow them to meet Presbytery approved minimum’s. They understand that the Board of Pensions (BOP) minimums for pension and medical dues will not be exempt and that the church will be billed according to those minimums.

H. Farmington-First Ministry Information Form (MIF) and Mission Study Addendum.

I. Monmouth-Faith MIF.

j. Petersburg-Central Mission Study.

ACTION ITEMS FOR ASSEMBLY

Recommend that Assembly approve the new Commissioned Lay Pastor (CLP) Manual. (The Manual has been a collaborative effort of the Committee on Preparation for Ministry and the Committee on Ministry).

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The unity of believers in Christ is reflected in the rich diversity of the Church’s membership. In Christ, by the power of the Spirit, God unites persons through baptism regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, geography, or theological conviction. There is therefore, no place in the life of the Church for


discrimination against any person. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) shall guarantee full participation and representation in its worship, governance, and emerging life to all persons or groups within its membership. No member shall be denied participation or representation for any reason other than stated in this Constitution. (F-1.0403)


APPENDIX G Administration Team Report

Present included: Elder Wayne Wrage, Elder Bill Harfst, Vice Moderator Rev. Tim Snart, Elder Craig Mousty, Chair Rev. Chuck Goodman, Elder Julio Garcia (on conference call), Rev. Mark Merrill (on conference call) Support Staff included: Stated Clerk Rev. Elissa Bailey, Moderator Rev. Ryan Landino, Elder Gary Terpstra, Accountant Amy Gardner. The meeting was opened at 1:04pm and a quorum was declared. Craig Mousty opened with prayer. Chuck was running a little late and joined us on conference call until he arrived. In that brief time, Craig Mousty was nominated by Chuck to serve as Moderator Pro Tem. (The committee was later reminded that Rev. Tim Snart is the vice moderator) Accountant Amy began the meeting with reviewing the financials.

• There is some loss in investments due to the fluctuating market.

• One church returned their $200 talent.

• There was a per capita shortfall of $24,419

• January-March 2018:

− Receipts totaling $93,484

− Expenses totaling $100,824 MSA to receive the financial report. Proposed Distribution of Ebersolt Funds for 2018:

• Indian Point United Presbyterian Church, Athens: $2,330.01

• United Presbyterian Church, Greenview: $2,330.00

• Central Presbyterian Church, Petersburg: $2,330.00

• Rock Creek Presbyterian Church, Tallula: $2,330.00

− Total Funds Available for Distribution: $9,320.01 MSA the distribution and to send to the assembly for final approval Through much discussion and consideration, the Administrative Team will withdraw all funds from Raymond James Investment Banking and Busey Bank Wealth Management so all investment accounts will be handled through the PCUSA Presbyterian Foundation, New Covenant. MSA MSA the following to be signers for the investment accounts. 2 of the 3 signatures will be needed in consultation with the 3rd and with the accountant will be necessary.

• Lead Presbyter for Transformation Rev.

• Administration Chair Rev. Chuck Goodman

• Treasurer Elder Gary Davis MSA the February 20th, 2018 Assembly Meeting Minutes. MSA to ratify the following evote:

• The Administration Team voted through email to approve the Easement Agreement for the Eureka Presbyterian Church to grant an easement for their neighbors to access the back of the church property. This will allow the Advocate Eureka Hospital to access the north door of their maintenance building, through both the church property and the neighboring property.

At this time, it has become known that there will be a proposal for GA per capita to raise. Currently the per capita is $7.73. The proposed per capita will be $10.71. It was decided that the team would put something in the newsletter about this and it will talk about it at the next Assembly meeting. The Admin team discussed the office space as the lease will be ending at the end of the year. There has been some conversation with First Federated Church in Peoria, however, there are no numbers at this time.


COM reimbursements for the work the ministry partners will be doing as they connect with the Presbytery’s churches: MSA to postpone this until the next meeting. 2019 Budget planning – need involvement from the other committees.

• Possibilities: Budget hearing – priorities set before budget created.

• Process for 3-5 years (long term)

• Each committee chair attends or sends a designee

• Budget plus cashflow

• Go to leadership – for the “cost centers”

• Approve at the November Assembly the 3-5 year budget and cashflow.

• Define the spend-down policy.

− Amy will put together a five-year plan based on what we have been doing. This will be sent out to the committees to look at to see what their needs are and what changes they could make.

− Need input from the cost centers by the June meeting. Then they will be invited to come to the August meeting to help plan the budget.

The Presbyterian Church in Mason City wants to sell their manse. MSA to recommend to the assembly to approve the sale of the manse with a certified appraisal that they will obtain through the lender. At the next meeting:

• Office location

• COM reimbursements

• 3-5 year budget The chair determined there was no new business and declared adjournment. Chuck closed in prayer.


Revised PGR Assembly Docket May 8, 2018

9:30am-3:00pm Informal Meet and Greet with Candidate for Lead Presbyter for Transformation 9-10am

The Mission of the Presbytery:

“We are called to share Christ’s love by partnering in service,

uniting in worship, and risking in ministry”

UNITING IN WORSHIP AND SHARING CHRIST’S LOVE 9:00am

Informal Meet and Greet with Candidate for Lead Presbyter for Transformation (9-10am) Call to Order 10:00am Opening Prayer Worship Hymn: “For Everyone Born” 1 For everyone born, a place at the table, for everyone born, clean water and bread, a shelter, a space, a safe place for growing, for everyone born, a star overhead, Refrain: and God will delight when we are creators of justice and joy, compassion and peace: yes, God will delight when we are creators of justice, justice and joy! 2 For woman and man, a place at the table, revising the roles, deciding the share, with wisdom and grace, dividing the power, for woman and man, a system that's fair, [Refrain] 3 For young and for old, a place at the table, a voice to be heard, a part in the song, the hands of a child in hands that are wrinkled, for young and for old, the right to belong, [Refrain] 4 For just and unjust, a place at the table, abuser, abused, with need to forgive, in anger, in hurt, a mindset of mercy, for just and unjust, a new way to live, [Refrain] 5 For everyone born, a place at the table, to live without fear, and simply to be, to work, to speak out, to witness and worship, for everyone born, the right to be free, [Refrain] Establish the Roll and Corresponding Members

• Declare a Quorum

• Introduction and seating of new Teaching Elder commissioners

• Introduction of new Ruler Elder Commissioners at tables


• Greeting your Neighbors in Christ’s Love RISKING IN MINISTRY 10:15am Approval of the Docket Current Business Omnibus Motion Stated Clerk’s report Nominating Committee Report Financial Report Presentation On Mandatory Reporting —TE Andy Gifford 10 minutes Report of Visioning Team—TE Joe Eby 15 minutes Report of the Leadership Team—TE Ryan Landino 5 minutes Report of Committee on Ministry—RE Kent Wurmnest 5 minutes Guest Report Updating Current Projects of Illinois Conference of Churches, Laurie Vial, Executive Director) 3 minutes Guest Report from Board of Pensions—Rev. Ken Green (Ken Green will be also be available during lunch for individual conversations) 20 minutes UNITING IN WORSHIP Worship: Offering: The offering for today will go towards scholarships for our presbytery mission trip to the Hand and Feet Initiative at General Assembly this June. You may use the baskets at your tables for your gifts. Thank you for your generous giving! Prayer for Illumination Scripture: Acts 2:1-13 Sermon: Rev. Ryan Landino preaching Activity: “A Fire Across Our Presbytery” You will be invited to consider something you and your church does joyfully and well as a service to your community, then write it down in a few words on either the red, yellow, or orange Post-It notes on your tables. You will then be invited, as you feel called, to place your Post-It on a map of the presbytery near the front, on the approximate map location where that activity takes place. Hymn: “Come, O Spirit, Dwell Among Us” 1 Come, O Spirit, dwell among us; come with Pentecostal power; give the church a stronger vision; help us face each crucial hour. Built upon a firm foundation, Jesus Christ, the Cornerstone, still the church is called to mission that God's love shall be made known. 2 We would raise our alleluias for the grace of yesteryears; for tomorrow's unknown pathway, hear, O Lord, our humble prayers. In the church's pilgrim journey you have led us all the way;


still in presence move before us, fire by night and cloud by day.

3 Come, O Spirit, dwell among us; give us words of fire and flame. Help our feeble lips to praise you, glorify your holy name. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Three in One: what mystery! We would sing our loud hosannas now and through ternity. Announcements 11:50am (This is not a time for formal actions to be made by the assembly.) LUNCH 12:00pm 1 hour There are baskets in which to put a free-will offering for your lunch. This helps off-set these costs for Presbytery, but don’t go hungry if you don’t have anything to put in them! We’ll catch you next time. PARTNERING IN MISSION 1:05 Continuing Business: Report of Administration Team—TE Chuck Goodman 7 minutes Report of Bridge Consultant—TE Bob Reynolds 5 minutes Report of Lead Presbyter For Transformation Search Team (sequence: presentation of report, opportunity to ask questions of the search team, presentation of candidate, opportunity to ask questions of the candidate, open floor for comment after examination, discussion on terms of contract, discussion on support motion from search team) 20 minutes Report of Personnel Committee—CRE Sandi Woodard 5 minutes NEW BUSINESS (This is not a time for announcements. This is a time for formal motions to be brought before the assembly.) 2:30pm WORSHIP Hymn: “God Be With You Till We Meet Again” 2:40pm

1 God be with you till we meet again; Loving counsels guide, uphold you, With a Shepherd's care enfold you: God be with you till we meet again.

2 God be with you till we meet again; Unseen wings protecting hide you, Daily manna still provide you: God be with you till we meet again.

3 God be with you till we meet again; When life’s perils thick confound you; Put unfailing arms around you: God be with you till we meet again.


4 God be with you till we meet again; Keep love’s banner floating o’er you, Strike death’s threatening wave before you: God be with you till we meet again.

Blessing/Adjournment -- 2:50pm

Next Presbytery Assembly Meeting: Saturday, September 22nd at Blackburn College, Carlinville, IL

Date post:	25-Sep-2020
Category:	Documents
Upload:	others
View:	0 times
Download:	0 times

ASSEMBLY MEETING - Presbytery of Great Rivers · 5/8/2018 · 05-08-18 Presbytery Assembly Minutes...

Documents