Regarding the Recommendation For MPC to Seek Dismissal from the PCUSA

Transcription

1 1 Frequently Asked Questions January 2012 Regarding the Recommendation For MPC to Seek Dismissal from the PCUSA Over the last 8 months the session and the denominational task force has sought to discern a path forward for Mebane Presbyterian Church concerning dismissal from the PC(USA). We have developed this Frequently Asked Questions document to be a source of information along with a tool to encourage more communication. We want to hear from you and encourage questions you might have that are not listed below. This will allow us to respond to you and continue to build a thorough listing of FAQ s for our members. (Throughout these FAQ s, the terms we, us and our refers to Mebane Presbyterian Church (MPC), its pastoral staff, Session, Members, and ministries.) Contents About the PCUSA MPC is a Presbyterian Church. What does it mean to be Presbyterian? What is the PCUSA? What influence does the PCUSA have over our church?... 4 Reasons for Change in Denomination What are the main reasons, by importance, for MPC wanting to leave the PCUSA? Is the primary reason to seek dismissal from the PCUSA due to the push in the PCUSA to ordain homosexuals? Please explain what Creeping tolerance of theological pluralism means? Are all of our Session members in agreement with this change? Since we have the same ability to make local decisions about whom we choose to invite as pastors and about our theological stance, what is the value of changing? What are the potential benefits to staying with the PCUSA? Are we concerned about negative publicity?... 6 Salem Presbytery Dismissal Policy Why are we considering leaving the PCUSA? Why have we decided to depart now, at this time? Why do we have to follow the Salem Presbytery s Dismissal Policy? What are the non- negotiable issues that cause us to request dismissal? What was involved in the discernment process that MPC went through to make this decision? What is involved in the process of leaving?... 8

2 2 7. How many people need to vote in order for MPC to leave the PCUSA? What if not enough people turn out to vote? Are we going to lose a lot of people over this? What is the financial cost of leaving the PCUSA? How will our relationships with churches in the PCUSA change once we are dismissed? How will our missionaries be affected by our departure? Who owns MPC property? Will we lose our property if we leave the PCUSA? Is the Dismissal Policy just for the Salem Presbytery or for the whole country? How does the Dismissal Policy work? Who makes the decision as to whether or not we are reconcilable? How long will the Dismissal Policy take to complete? What does the transition of land, pastors and congregation mean? Why do we have to go to another denomination, a reformed church, or why can't we go independent? What other churches in Salem Presbytery are going through the Dismissal Policy? What happens to people who do not support the dismissal? How do we know that the Mediation team isn t going to be a loaded deck but will be fair- minded? Process of Change Voting Process Do we have a sense of the number of people we might lose because of the move away from the PCUSA to EPC? What will change within MPC in practical terms? Voting Process Who can vote? How many members does MPC have today? What percent of members attend each week? Can the youth vote? Do we have a sense of how the congregation will vote? Are there members who are opposed to leaving PCUSA? What are the mechanics of the vote? Will there be any provision to vote by proxy or absentee ballot for those that cannot be present?... 14

3 3 8. What are MPC s plans to get more than 2/3 of the membership to attend the congregational meeting and 2/3 to approve for the vote? What will happen if we do not get a quorum? What will happen if we do not get 2/3 affirming dismissal? What happens after MPC takes the vote? How soon will we actually be in the EPC or next denomination? If we vote 2/3 majority to leave how likely is it that the Presbytery will approve the dismissal and give us their blessing? What percent vote do you have to have and not lose the property? Financial Issues What is the actual financial cost of leaving? Does MPC have any outstanding loans to the PCUSA? Given our history of budget shortfalls, how do we plan on paying a per capita to both the new denomination and PCUSA if negotiated in the terms of dismissal? Is there a plan for long- term debt? Pensions and Pastoral Compensation Will there be any impact on pastor s retirement benefits? Will there be any impact on pastor s salary? How will the pastor s health benefits be affected?... 17

4 4 Frequently Asked Questions About the PCUSA 1. MPC is a Presbyterian Church. What does it mean to be Presbyterian? Presbyterian churches are based on a representative form of government and a connection to other churches. Each congregation appoints elders to sit with a pastor(s) on a Session which governs the local church. Each church belongs to a Presbytery, a regional body designed to supervise and serve the local churches in its area. MPC is part of Salem Presbytery. Representatives from each Presbytery come together every other year at General Assembly, a national meeting, where denomination-wide policies are created or modified by vote. 2. What is the PCUSA? Presbyterian Church (USA) or PCUSA is the branch of Presbyterianism to which MPC belongs. It was born of a merger between two Presbyterian denominations in 1983 to become the fifth largest Protestant denomination in the United States. The PCUSA is one of nine Presbyterian denominations in the United States. The national offices are in Louisville, Kentucky. The PCUSA is governed by its constitution, made up of The Book of Order and The Book of Confessions. For more information visit 3. What influence does the PCUSA have over our church? The influence of the PCUSA over MPC comes in both how we govern the church (polity) and in our theology. We have a Book of Order which contains sections on church government, discipline and worship. We also have a Book of Confessions which consists of 11 historic confessions of faith by which we agree to be guided. The continuing tension we live under in the PCUSA is that both of these important documents are subject to change. Many of our differences center on the ongoing proposals for change in The Book of Order and Book of Confessions.

5 5 Reasons for Change in Denomination 1. What are the main reasons, by importance, for MPC wanting to leave the PCUSA? Many people have asked for the main reason(s) why the Session has recommended MPC seek dismissal from the PCUSA. In response we can only say there is no single reason or incident that led to this recommendation. MPC s fundamentals of belief are anchored in the authority of Scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ. For over 20 years a growing minority within the PCUSA has sought to compromise the authority of scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ. The key reason as cited in the Session position statement is this creeping tolerance of theological pluralism within the PCUSA. Specific examples were cited during task force presentations given in October 2011 (We have posted this presentation on MPC s website). Because the internal conflict in the PCUSA continues to grow, it has become clear that our association with the PCUSA is no longer the most effective path to further MPC s mission. MPC s desire is to be associated with a denomination that supports our efforts to bring People to Christ, rather than to continue to expend energy in an attempt to course correct a denomination that continues to move away from Christ and the Authority of Scripture. I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. Romans 16:17 2. Is the primary reason to seek dismissal from the PCUSA due to the push in the PCUSA to ordain homosexuals? No, this is not the primary reason. There is no single reason or incident that led to the Session s recommendation to seek dismissal from the PCUSA. For over 20 years a growing minority within the PCUSA has sought to compromise the authority of scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ. The departure of ordination standards from clear biblical principles and the Book of Order is just one of many examples of the trend in the PCUSA to compromise the authority of scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ. 3. Please explain what Creeping tolerance of theological pluralism means? Creeping tolerance of theological pluralism means that increasingly there is a wide range of unbiblical beliefs about Jesus held and affirmed within the PCUSA. Over time an increasing percentage of ministers and members in the PCUSA are taking positions that are inconsistent with the historical tenants of our faith. With greater frequency, the moderates that make up the majority of the denomination are voting with the revisionists and are choosing to no longer guard orthodoxy. This is how Jesus becomes a way rather than the way to God, how compassion becomes unhinged from truth, how theological diversity becomes more important than discipleship and how social action more important than Christian spiritual formation. We believe: In the absolute Lordship of Jesus Christ In the unquestionable means of salvation for the whole world through Him In the infallible authority of God s Word in all matters of faith and practice.

6 6 4. Are all of our Session members in agreement with this change? The Session (which is comprised of 6 active elders) is all in favor of the recommendation that Mebane Presbyterian Church seek dismissal from the PCUSA. However, the Session of MPC does not have the authority to seek dismissal on its own; this is a congregation-wide decision in which every member will have a voice through a voting process. 5. Since we have the same ability to make local decisions about whom we choose to invite as pastors and about our theological stance, what is the value of changing? The PCUSA currently provides freedom in the selection of pastors and the theological stance of the local church. However, over a 20 year period within the PCUSA a growing minority has sought to compromise the authority of scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Christ in such a way that it has created a conflicted witness to the world. Churches like MPC are continually called to explain that they are not like other parts of the denomination that embrace non-orthodox positions. This defensive posture reduces the impact of the ministries and mission of MPC. In addition, the internal conflict in the PCUSA has continued to grow to the point that MPC leadership has lost hope that we can affect change in the PCUSA. After much study and prayer the session has reached the point of recommending dismissal. The task force believes it would be better for MPC to join the EPC in their efforts to bring people to Christ, rather than to continue to expend energy in an attempt to course correct a denomination that continues to move away from historical beliefs regarding Christ and the Authority of Scripture. 6. What are the potential benefits to staying with the PCUSA? Three major reasons for staying in the PCUSA were identified: 1. To avoid the cost of leaving in terms of money and turmoil within MPC 2. To avoid a legal dispute over ownership of MPC property 3. To maintain a presence and voice in the Salem Presbytery. The concerns outlined in reasons #1 and # 2 were resolved by Salem Presbytery s Dismissal Policy. With respect to # 3, the internal conflict in the PCUSA has continued to grow to the point that MPC leadership has lost hope that it can affect change in the PCUSA. 7. Are we concerned about negative publicity? We believe that standing firm for the authority of scripture and the uniqueness and Lordship of Jesus Christ is not a reason for negative publicity. We intend to proceed with prayer, care and visible respect for our Christian brothers and sisters in MPC, Salem Presbytery and the PCUSA. We expect that the way we seek dismissal from the PCUSA and affiliation with our next denomination (to be determined) will bring Jesus joy and those watching will be drawn to Him and MPC.

7 7 Salem Presbytery Dismissal Policy 1. Why are we considering leaving the PCUSA? There are several reasons for our decision to depart the PCUSA. They include: a) A creeping tolerance of theological pluralism. An increasingly large percentage of PCUSA Pastors and leaders are taking positions that are inconsistent with the historical tenets of our faith. Rather than complying with the Book of Order, the denomination has urged us to live together with an ever-increasing theological diversity. b) A conflicted witness to the world. MPC is continually called to explain how we are not like other parts of our denomination. This defensive posture both confuses those inquiring about our church and reduces the impact of our ministry and mission. c) Divided loyalty. Over the last 15 years the amount of dollars going to higher governing bodies (Salem, Mid-Atlantic Synod, General Assembly) has been dramatically reduced. d) Our passion and energy has been diverted. For years we have been dedicating time, talent and resources to internal struggles. We would like to be released to more effective ministry and mission. 2. Why have we decided to depart now, at this time? Despite our concerns throughout the years about troubling theological diversity, we have actively engaged in the life of our denomination locally and nationally. Internal conflict has continued to grow. In July 2009, Salem Presbytery adopted a Dismissal Policy which provides a means of amicable dismissal from the PCUSA. We believe that leaving under this process preserves the unity of the church, honors Christ and also those with whom we differ. 3. Why do we have to follow the Salem Presbytery s Dismissal Policy? Local churches have to be released by the next higher governing body. We cannot just walk away due to the connective nature of PCUSA. Our best course of action is to follow as much as we are able, the policy set forth, so as to preserve peace between the congregation and the Presbytery. Further, the policy states, Should the congregation (or its leadership) refuse visits and discussions with the Conciliation Team and/or the Resolution Team, the Council shall, at its earliest opportunity, recommend to the Presbytery that the Presbytery appoint an Administrative Commission with authority to act for the Presbytery, to tentatively re-solve all matters. No final action of dissolution, dismissal, division through schism, or discipline shall be taken until the Presbytery in a full meeting shall approve such final action. Any Administrative Commission appointed under the authority of this policy shall be charged with addressing all of the issues addressed above, and with working toward ultimate resolution of the matter with the congregation. All of the policy considerations listed above in this policy statement apply to such an Administrative Commission as well as to the Conciliation and the Resolution Teams.

8 8 4. What are the non- negotiable issues that cause us to request dismissal? Biblical Authority is the primary issue. Over the years, increasingly unique interpretations of Scripture has had a ripple effect and has called into question foundational Christian beliefs such as the Lordship of Christ, the place of Scripture in church discipline, Jesus Christ as the only means of salvation and Biblical teaching on marriage, the virgin birth, The Trinity, and other primary doctrines. 5. What was involved in the discernment process that MPC went through to make this decision? For the past year the Session has labored to understand the theological direction of the PCUSA and considered how MPC should respond to continuing trends. This discernment process has included prayer and a call for congregational prayer. In June 2011, the Session appointed a Denominational Issues Task Force which has done extensive research and offered monthly reports to Session. In Summer 2011, there were 2 different meetings of elders (both active Session members and inactive) to discuss initial response to the recent constitutional changes (Form of Govt/ Authoritative Interpretation stance and ordination standards), and to present research on other Presbyterian and reformed denominations. The Task Force continued denominational research and studied the dismissal process in detail and presented their report and recommendations in 4 different information sessions during the months of October and November. At the end of these meetings a question and answer session was held along with members being to share their feelings on the recommendation to leave the PCUSA. During the month of December a straw poll was conducted via phone to contact those who had not participated in the information sessions. 6. What is involved in the process of leaving? The process ahead will involve considerable prayer and discernment from each of our members. The Session of MPC will lead you in a series of informational forums, open Q&A dialogue and prayerful listening, as we together, seek to discern our path ahead. Salem Presbytery will send representatives that make up a Reconciliation Team that will aid in the discernment process. If reconciliation is not possible, the process will culminate with a Congregational Meeting and an official vote to either stay the course with the PCUSA or follow the recommendation of Session and seek dismissal. In pursuit of dismissal, MPC will follow a series of steps that are part of the Salem Presbytery s Dismissal Policy. Please contact a member of the Session if you want the fine details of the process. The process will also be posted on and several copies will be placed in the church s library. 7. How many people need to vote in order for MPC to leave the PCUSA? Salem Dismissal Policy reads: A quorum for this congregational meeting shall be two-thirds of the active membership, the attendees being recorded by name. The vote shall be taken, by written ballot of the active

9 9 members of the congregation present. At least two-thirds of those present and voting must vote in favor of disaffiliation in order for the proposal to be passed. 8. What if not enough people turn out to vote? This vote is perhaps the most important in MPC s history. Every effort will be made to inform the congregation of its importance and to make a way for all to attend. The Dismissal Policy requires a letter to be sent to all active members 30 days in advance and weekly announcements in worship services. On the day of the congregation vote, MPC will have a worship service, during Sunday morning, concluding with the congregational meeting for the official vote. We believe this approach will result in an adequate number of MPC members in attendance for the vote. However, if not enough people turn out to vote, MPC would not meet the requirements for dismissal and MPC would remain in the PCUSA. An attempt to re-vote may or may not be persued. 9. Are we going to lose a lot of people over this? The information, education and discernment process we are engaged in is intended to be unifying, not divisive. It is our prayer that even those who do not agree with the decision will continue to worship and fellowship with us. 10. What is the financial cost of leaving the PCUSA? The Salem Presbytery Dismissal Policy is not clear on specific financial cost, but only references the following: If a motion for disaffiliation is passed with at least the requisite majority, then the Presbytery Council shall begin a process of negotiation with the congregation to determine the terms of dismissal. In discussion of appropriate resolutions the following is proposed: Several suggested methods of resolution are here offered for consideration by Council and the congregation in resolving the matter, but are not stipulated as mandatory: (1) The congregation may be dismissed and take with it property equal in value to the percentage of members voting (i.e. if eighty per cent voted for disaffiliation, the congregation may retain and take with it eighty percent of the value of its assets, and must prepare a schedule in conjunction with the Council for the time frame for remitting the remaining twenty percent to the Presbytery. Alternatively, (2) The congregation could volunteer to make payments of money to the Presbytery over a five year period to replace the lost mission and per capita money that the Presbytery would otherwise have expected to receive during those five years, either on a straight line basis or on a declining basis (i.e. 100% the first year, 80% the second year, etc.). Alternatively, (3) A congregation that attains a greater than ninety percent vote, and is thus to be permitted to depart with all of its property, shall be encouraged to volunteer to make some monetary contributions to the Presbytery for several years as a way of expressing its gratitude for the historic and on-going work of its life as a congregation of the PCUSA through Salem Presbytery, and to aid in providing ministry for those members of the departing congregation who decide that they want to remain within the PCUSA, or to aid in initiating new PCUSA ministry in the community.

10 How will our relationships with churches in the PCUSA change once we are dismissed? We will continue to work with PCUSA churches with which we have a theological kinship. We have decades of ministry history with some of these churches and leaders. We believe that our partnership in the Gospel transcends denominational affiliation. 12. How will our missionaries be affected by our departure? None of our current missionaries should be affected. We do not send any undesignated money through the larger PCUSA denomination; therefore, we will be able to maintain spiritual and financial relationships with all of our current missionaries. 13. Who owns MPC property? MPC holds legal title to all its property. However, the Presbyterian Book of Order provides that all local church property is held in trust for the whole denomination (the Trust Clause ). Salem Presbytery has adopted a Dismissal Policy in which they affirm the following principles that will guide the Presbytery s use of the Trust Clause: We believe and affirm as a basic principle of our unity that the property chapter of the Book of Order (Chapter 8), is not the basis of our unity, nor is it to be used as an opportunity to accentuate division among us. Our Book of Order reminds us that the civil power of the state should not be used to enforce the provisions of a religious constitution (G b), and that our constitution sets forth the principle that our collective organization as a worshipping community should not burden or infringe on existing property rights (Westminster Confession 6.148). If more than ninety percent of those present and voting, vote for dismissal, the Presbytery shall agree to the disaffiliation, permitting the congregation to depart with all of its property intact. If the majority percentage is between sixty-six and two-thirds percent and ninety percent, then the congregation and the Council shall work to determine a fair money and/or property amount to be given to presbytery, in order for the congregation to depart with its property. 14. Will we lose our property if we leave the PCUSA? No. The Dismissal Policy of the Salem Presbytery states that: As a presbytery, we recognize that Chapter 8 of the Book of Order provides that congregations may leave the Presbyterian Church (USA) in possession of their property. We further recognize that a congregation has the right to seek dismissal under chapters 8 and 15 of the Book of Order. We are all reminded that the Presbytery itself is the only body empowered to approve a congregation s dissolution, split, or withdrawal. We ask all congregations to act with love, forbearance, dignity, and discretion, should they find themselves led by the Spirit of God to pursue this right. We ask our congregations to defer litigation against the presbytery in civil courts. In the spirit of the Apostle Paul, we peacefully seek first to discuss and arbitrate any

11 11 disagreements, as brothers and sisters in Christ, before seeking any civil remedies afforded by law. 15. Is the Dismissal Policy just for the Salem Presbytery or for the whole country? The Dismissal Policy that will be used in MPC s request was created and approved solely for Salem Presbytery in response to a GA (General Assembly, 2008) request for each Presbytery to develop a Gracious Dismissal Policy. The policy was adopted at a regular Presbytery meeting in July of How does the Dismissal Policy work? Who makes the decision as to whether or not we are reconcilable? First MPC leadership gives notice of our desire to seek dismissal from the PCUSA. Following the notice Salem Presbytery begins to follow its published Dismissal Policy for Congregations considering leaving the PCUSA. (Reference the Salem Presbytery Policy for Congregations Seeking dismissal on the MPC website, at the MPC Library). 1. The Presbytery appoints a Presbytery Mediation Team (MT) who will meet with MPC leadership. 2. The MT and MPC will then engage in a period of prayerful discussion which may include several informational meetings at which every member will have an opportunity to express concerns. 3. If the MT determines that reconciliation is not possible, then the MT and a Special Committee of MPC s congregation will engage in negotiation regarding terms of dismissal, as outlined in the Dismissal Policy. 4. The members of the congregation will be given at least 30 days prior notice of a Congregational vote and meeting. 5. The Session calls for a congregational meeting to act on the recommendation to be dismissed from the PCUSA and pursue affiliation with a specified denomination and to approve the terms of dismissal. 6. Salem Presbytery will then vote at a regularly scheduled Presbytery meeting regarding approval of the dismissal and the terms of the negotiated agreement. 7. A transition of MPC people, property and pastors will then occur. 17. How long will the Dismissal Policy take to complete? Our hope is that the Salem Presbytery will authorize a vote by our congregation to take place in a timely manner. The exact timing of the vote will be determined in the weeks and months ahead and is dependent upon the progress of the Conciliation/Resolution Team (CRT) and the subsequent response by Salem Presbytery authorizing and calling for a vote. Under the terms of the Dismissal Policy the congregation will be given 30 days notice prior to the vote. 18. What does the transition of land, pastors and congregation mean? The transition of land, pastors and congregation means that the PCUSA releases any claim

12 12 on MPC s property, graciously releases the MPC pastors from their PCUSA ordination vows and formally dismisses the MPC congregation from affiliation with the PCUSA. 19. Why do we have to go to another denomination, a reformed church, or why can't we go independent? Becoming a non-denominational church is not an option because the PCUSA requires that a church seeking dismissal must be released to a reformed body of believers such as the Evangelical Presbyterian Church. In addition the leadership of MPC values the accountability and order called for in the Presbyterian form of government. 20. What other churches in Salem Presbytery are going through the Dismissal Policy? We have knowledge of three congregations as of the October 2011 Presbytery meeting, with further knowledge of 3 more churches just beginning the process as of January What happens to people who do not support the dismissal? Members who do not vote in favor of dismissal from the PCUSA will be fully welcomed to continue to be a part of the MPC family. Those desiring not to remain at MPC and to continue to be part of the PCUSA denomination will be welcomed into other PCUSA churches of their choice. Mebane has three other PCUSA churches including Hawfields Presbyterian, Cross Roads Presbyterian and Mebane First Presbyterian (predominately an African American congregation). 22. How do we know that the Mediation team isn t going to be a loaded deck but will be fair- minded? For several reasons there is very little likelihood that the Mediation Team will consist of anything other than a representative, balanced and open minded set of individuals. First, in the Dismissal Policy, Salem Presbytery is clear that it does not wish to retain any church that truly desires to affiliate with another reformed denomination. Secondly, our pastor and several lay people have been active in Salem Presbytery for many years and MPC enjoys a good reputation and good relationships within Salem Presbytery. Finally the Mediation Team will be selected by the Presbytery Council and elected by Salem Presbytery in a very thorough process.

13 13 Process of Change Voting Process 1. Do we have a sense of the number of people we might lose because of the move away from the PCUSA to EPC? Based upon on the straw polling done in December, the task force estimates that there is overwhelming majority of the congregation that desires to change denominations. The actual voting numbers were: Yes 142, No 15, Undecided 12, and unable to contact 13. During our polling we did not ask members if the vote to leave PCUSA would cause them personally to seek membership elsewhere. 2. What will change within MPC in practical terms? There will not be any changes in how MPC is organized or conducts itself. One of the reasons the task force recommends affiliating with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) is because their form of government is similar to what we have today and the EPC is aligned with MPC s theological beliefs, our mission outreach, our vision and calling to fulfill the Great Commission. A positive change will be a focus on ministry and missions as the significant burden and time demands are lifted from MPC's leadership in attempting to correct the course of the PCUSA and their continued move away from the Authority of Scripture and the centrality of Christ. Voting Process 1. Who can vote? All active members that attend the congregational meeting called for the purpose of voting on the Session recommendation to seek dismissal from the PCUSA can vote. 2. How many members does MPC have today? As of the end of January 2012 MPC had 182 active members. 3. What percent of members attend each week? We have an average worship service attendance of 125 people including visitors. We are hopeful that each active member will increase attendance in the weeks prior to the vote to attain critical information. 4. Can the youth vote? All active members are entitled to vote regardless of age. 5. Do we have a sense of how the congregation will vote? Based on straw poll voting numbers were: Yes 142, No 15, Undecided 12, and unable to contact 13. A strong majority (78%) are in favor of disaffiliation.

14 14 6. Are there members who are opposed to leaving PCUSA? The straw poll did show 8% of members are not in favor of leaving the PCUSA and approximately 14% who were either undecided or were not able to be contacted. A few members seem to feel that by seeking dismissal from the PCUSA we risk becoming exclusive and limiting, to the extent of not welcoming those whose views differ from MPC s. MPC's position about our core beliefs remains the same whether we are with the PCUSA. MPC has and will continue to welcome and offer the love of Christ to those with different views to be a part of our congregation. 7. What are the mechanics of the vote? Will there be any provision to vote by proxy or absentee ballot for those that cannot be present? The process for the congregational vote will likely follow the process the presbytery has used for important matters. Upon arriving each member (only active members are permitted to vote) is logged in against a list of valid members and receives a ballot (just like municipal elections). Absentee ballots or ballots by proxy are not permitted; all active members must be present to vote. When the vote takes place, the individually marked ballets will be collected. All ballots are then counted by a team of designated counters. The counting team certifies the results which are then presented to the congregation by the moderator of the meeting. The actual mechanics of the MPC vote regarding dismissal will be determined by the Mediation Team and the special committee of the congregation (SCC). 8. What are MPC s plans to get more than 2/3 of the membership to attend the congregational meeting and 2/3 to approve for the vote? Prior to the vote we are asking all members to attend a number of Informational meetings and teaching seminars to become fully educated on the issues. These meetings will be highly publicized and all members will be strongly encouraged to attend. We believe the information being shared is compelling and will properly prepare our membership to interact with the Mediation Team and ultimately to achieve overwhelming concurrence with the Session recommendation to seek dismissal from the PCUSA. 9. What will happen if we do not get a quorum? What will happen if we do not get 2/3 affirming dismissal? In the event we do not have a quorum of 2/3 of MPC s active membership or more than 2/3 of those present do not vote to seek dismissal from the PCUSA, MPC will remain in the PCUSA, although further attempts to vote again are not prohibited. All efforts, including letters, personal contact, etc., will be made to assure the MPC membership is aware of and requested to participate in the vote. MPC leadership is confident that through these efforts and the help of interested members a significant percentage of the membership will attend the congregational vote and there will be overwhelming concurrence with the Session recommendation to seek dismissal from the PCUSA.

15 What happens after MPC takes the vote? How soon will we actually be in the EPC or next denomination? Following an affirmative vote of at least 2/3 of the MPC members present at the meeting requesting dismissal from the PCUSA, Salem Presbytery by a majority vote at a regularly scheduled Presbytery meeting will formally dismiss MPC to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) or other reformed denomination that the congregation determines by vote is the appropriate place to go. The exact timing is unclear as there are only four Presbytery meetings each year. Immediately following Salem Presbytery approval MPC will be received by the EPC. This will be possible because MPC s session and other key leaders will have started communication with the other reformed body and most (hopefully all) preliminary steps toward affiliation will be in place before the final Salem Presbytery vote to release us. 11. If we vote 2/3 majority to leave how likely is it that the Presbytery will approve the dismissal and give us their blessing? The Dismissal Policy is a formal policy of Salem Presbytery that was adopted in 2009 by the entire Presbytery. MPC leadership intends to go through the Dismissal Policy and is proceeding in good faith with the expectation that Salem Presbytery will abide by their policy. MPC leadership has confidence that Salem Presbytery will adhere to the Dismissal Policy and following all required steps approve MPC s dismissal. 12. What percent vote do you have to have and not lose the property? The Dismissal Policy states If more than ninety percent of those present and voting vote for disaffiliation, the Presbytery shall agree to the disaffiliation, permitting the congregation to depart with all of its property intact. If the majority percentage is between sixty-six and twothirds percent and ninety percent, then the congregation and the Council shall work to determine a fair money and/or property amount to be given to presbytery, in order for the congregation to depart with its property.

16 16 Financial Issues 1. What is the actual financial cost of leaving? At this point we are unaware of any cost of leaving, aside from the suggestions in the dismissal policy, Several suggested methods of resolution are here offered for consideration by Council and the congregation in resolving the matter, but are not stipulated as mandatory: (1)The congregation may be dismissed and take with it property equal in value to the percentage of members voting (i.e. if eighty per cent voted for disaffiliation, the congregation may retain and take with it eighty percent of the value of its assets, and must prepare a schedule in conjunction with the Council for the time frame for remitting the remaining twenty percent to the Presbytery. Alternatively, (2)The congregation could volunteer to make payments of money to the Presbytery over a five year period to replace the lost mission and per capita money that the Presbytery would otherwise have expected to receive during those five years, either on a straight line basis or on a declining basis (i.e. 100% the first year, 80% the second year, etc.). Alternatively, (3)A congregation that attains a greater than ninety percent vote, and is thus to be permitted to depart with all of its property, shall be encouraged to volunteer to make some monetary contributions to the Presbytery for several years as a way of expressing its gratitude for the historic and on-going work of its life as a congregation of the PCUSA through Salem Presbytery, and to aid in providing ministry for those members of the departing congregation who decide that they want to remain within the PCUSA, or to aid in initiating new PCUSA ministry in the community. 2. Does MPC have any outstanding loans to the PCUSA? No. MPC has no outstanding loans from the PCUSA nor is any of MPC s indebtedness guaranteed by the PCUSA. 3. Given our history of budget shortfalls, how do we plan on paying a per capita to both the new denomination and PCUSA if negotiated in the terms of dismissal? While MPC has experienced giving short falls during the course of the fiscal year, the giving, by the Grace of God and the generosity of members of our congregation, has met or exceeded our needs in recent years. The costs of the PCUSA declining per capita and the additional cost of the new denomination s annual contribution will be managed within the MPC budget. We believe that as long as we remain in God s will, He will supply our needs. 4. Is there a plan for long- term debt? Yes. MPC will continue to make annual principle and interest payments on existing indebtedness as it has in the past.

17 17 Pensions and Pastoral Compensation 1. Will there be any impact on pastor s retirement benefits? No. The pastor's retirement benefits accrued to date are fully protected and managed separately. The task force has determined that the EPC has its own retirement plan which our pastor will be able to join. The Session will evaluate the impact of the change and, if needed, make available options that will maintain our pastor s contributions at a level equal to or better than the current PCUSA plan. 2. Will there be any impact on pastor s salary? No. Pastor compensation is determined by our local congregation so there is no impact from the change in denomination. 3. How will the pastor s health benefits be affected? Although not fully researched, it is our understanding that all major denominations, including the EPC, has an array of health plan choices that is reported to be comparable to what our pastor currently has.