Minutes of the 162 nd Stated Session. of the PRESBYTERY OF SHENANDOAH. May 13, Moorefield Presbyterian Church Moorefield, West Virginia

Transcription

1 Minutes of the 162 nd Stated Session of the PRESBYTERY OF SHENANDOAH May 13, 2014 Moorefield Presbyterian Church Moorefield, West Virginia NEXT STATED SESSIONS Saturday, August 23, 2014 Camp Paddy Run Star Tannery, Virginia Tuesday, November 11, 2014 TBA Saturday, February 14, 2015 TBA SHENANDOAH PRESBYTERY IS A COVENANT BODY WHERE:» congregations are empowered to be centers for mission,» lay persons are equipped to be Disciples of Christ in a challenging world,» church leaders and members are nurtured and strengthened for service,» open communication and information are used constructively and creatively to keep us connected.

2 SHENANDOAH PRESBYTERY DIRECTORY Teaching Elder Betty Dax... Moderator 2014 Ruling Elder Houston Lynch... Vice-Moderator 2014 Teaching Elder Roy Martin... Transitional Presbyter Ext 108 Ruling Elder H. Richard Travis... Temporary Stated Clerk Ext 110 Larry Holsinger... Treasurer Ext 111 Ruling Elder Doug Sensabaugh... Communications Coordinator/HAE Ext 106 Heather Carter... Office Coordinator/Bookkeeper Ext 100 Kimberly T. Stroupe... Assistant for Constitution Ext 107 EXECUTIVE EMERITUS: The Rev. Homer C. Phifer, Jr. 490 Burning Tree Road, Pinehurst, NC SHENANDOAH PRESBYTERY OFFICE 1111 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA Telephone: Fax: SHENANDOAH PRESBYTERY CORPORATION 1111 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA Current Officers Don Myers, President Ronald Hylton, Vice President Richard Creasey, Vice President Alan Garrison, Secretary B. Randolph Roller, Treasurer Advisory Members Brown, Edwards & Company, LLP CAMP PADDY RUN Address: 221 Camp Lane, Star Tannery, VA 22654; Telephone: i

3 CANDIDATES FOR MINISTRY OF THE WORD AND SACRAMENT Helen Punker Robertson Rebecca Siddle Gwen Carr Home Church Goshen 471 Sunnybrook Rd. Fairfield, VA Home Church Waynesboro First 649 Chestnut Ave. Waynesboro, VA Home Church Tinkling Spring 37 Grandview Manor Ct 101 Waynesboro VA INQUIRERS FOR MINISTRY OF THE WORD AND SACRAMENT John Craft Emily Peterson Eric Gleason Kristy Ray Jacob Kave Tom Forbes Seth Lovell Molly Morris Home Church Tinkling Spring Home Church - Covenant Home Church - Warrenton Home Church Tinkling Spring Home Church New Monmouth Home Church Bunker Hill Home Church Tinkling Spring Home Church Staunton First ii

4 GOVERNING BODIES Synod of the Mid-Atlantic 3218 Chamberlayne Ave. Richmond, VA Office of the General Assembly 100 Witherspoon St. Louisville, KY iii

5 PRESBYTERY OF SHENANDOAH MINUTES OF THE 162 nd STATED MEETING The 162 nd Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of Shenandoah was held at Moorefield Presbyterian Church, in Moorefield, West Virginia, at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 13, The Moderator, Teaching Elder Betty Dax, called the meeting to order with prayer. WORSHIP The opening worship service was led by Rev. Katherine Jackson. Jon David Shearer and Jonathan Ytterock gave the sermons as part of their requirements by the Committee on Preparation of Ministry. Rev. Barb Johnson and commissioned ruling elder Linda Reece conducted the Sacrament of Communion. During the distribution of elements by intinction, the youth of Moorefield Presbyterian Church provided wonderful piano and vocal music. QUORUM AND ENROLLMENT The Stated Clerk reported that a quorum was present. The final enrollment was as follows: Adm Administrator DYP Director, Youth Program P Pastor Asst Assistant ED Educator Prof Professor Assoc Associate Honorably Retired SS Stated Supply Chap Chaplain IA Interim Associate Stu Student CM Campus Minister IN Inactive T Teacher COP Co-Pastors IP Interim Pastor TM Tent Making Coun Counselor ML Minister-at-Large TP Transitional Presbyter DP Designated Pastor OM Overseas Missionary WC Without Charge (Description code for attendance: P = present E = excused A = absent) A Allen, Donald R., Jr. A Arnold, Timothy P Sherando Absent P Atwood, James E. P Atwood, Roxana M. A Barner, Ann Elizabeth A Barner, Fred Thomas E Baxter, John A. A Bethard, John T. P Charles Town Absent E Biggs, Thomas T. E Boyer, Grace Jones A Brandon, Joseph C. E Bridgman, Larry Ann C. E Bridgman, Stewart G. A Bromhead, Jonathan ML P Brownlee, J. Malcolm E Bucy, Ralph D. P Bunker, Jonathan W. P Berryville Alma Brown E Burton, Rufus T., III P Martinsburg First Excused A Cardot, Guy Richard P Petersburg Robert Harman E Carlsson, Charles M., Jr. A Carr, Phillips L. P Cathcart, C. Stevens A Chapman, George W. P Buena Vista Absent E Coffman, Donna B. E Cole, William A., Jr. P Coleman, Glenn M. IP Mossy Creek P Conrad, Scott A. ML A Corder, William Lee ML P Cornfield, Keith A. P New Providence Weldon Shaw 41

6 E Cornish, Homer T. E Cox, C. William P Cranford, April H. Assoc Tinkling Spring P Crumley, Rachel P Tuscarora Karen Thatcher E Cushman, James E. P Cushwa, John W. P Dax, Betty G. IP Waynesboro First P Dent, William H., Jr. A Dietrich, Richard S. A Dobyns, Sharyl A. ML E Donohoe, Patricia A. P Dorn, Constance A. ML E Douty, Horace D. /IP Oxford P Evans, Caroline B. Assoc Warrenton P Evans, George W. P Cooks Creek Abssent P Everhart, William G. Supply Sunnyside E Farthing, Stanley H. Supply Zetta P Fetterman, Amy Assoc Covenant E Field, Robert F. A Fisher, Merle L., Jr. E Fisher, Otis L. E Forbes, Richard A., Jr. P Foster, M. Kerry P Bridgewater Carroll Chewning E Franklin, John S. E Garrison, John D. E Garriss, K. Braxton E Goodman, William R., Jr. E Goshorn, Robert D. A Habbersett, Bonnie D. P Hahn-Campanella Kitty Supply Highland-Memorial P Hand, Kevin L. P Franklin Nancy Sites Ruddle Absent P Haney, John H. P Goshen Absent Millboro Absent Rocky Spring Absent P Haney, M. Olivia Kincaid Supply Mt. Carmel P Harmon, Melissa L. P Beulah Mary Lou Cox Monterey Excused Pisgah Holmes Stephenson E Harrison, L. Randolph E Hastings, John R. Skip P Collierstown Excused E Hay, Thomas D. Adm E Hayter, J. T., Jr. P Heeringa, Jon E. P Harrisonburg First Ed Chappell Richard Johnson Judy von Seldeneck P Held, Ann Reed E Hellmuth, Barton L. A Hendy, Susanna ML E Hill, Robert S., Jr. P Hill, Sarah L. Assoc Lexington P Holbrook, Fred A. Adm E Holden, Thomas J., III E Hopkins, E. Reed P Loch Willow Bob Quigley P Howard, Carl D. P Howard, David D. P Strasburg Absent E Hunt, Patricia A Hunter, Tully J. P Tinkling Spring Rangy Gregory Dot McElroy 42

7 E Inglis, J. Leslie P Jackson, Katherine C. P Moorefield Mary Gunter E Jaureguizar, Marcia W. P Johns, Harry E. IP Staunton Second P Johnson, Barbara R. P Romney Beverly Keadle A Jones, Donald D. M. E Kennedy, J. Whitner P Key, Kyle W. Assoc Harrisonburg First A Klein, Deborah H. ML A Klein, William M. P Lexington Absent Absent P Lanaghan, Patrick R. P Burnt Absent P Langdon, J. Bradford ML E LaPrade, Lester N., Jr. /SS Bethany A LaRue, H. Donald P Finley Memorial Absent E Leggett, John P. P Massanutten Linda Knupp Bill Vance A Lewis, Elizabeth Chap Westminster-Canterbury E Lewis, Herbert T. E Long, Karen J. IP Keyser P Lowe, Emory G. P Macbeth, Bruce A. P Martin, Roy A TP E McClintock, Lynn ML E McCoig, Dan M., Jr. Assoc Winchester First P McCrary, Elizabeth L. P Augusta Stone Mary McGuffin P McDonald, John L. ML A McLean, Karen E. ML A Miles, Larry C. /SS Ben Salem E Moore, William L. OM E Muncy, Robert L. E Neel, Donald E. E Newman, Howard A. E Norville, Charles K. P O'Gorek, Paul A. Chaplain Sunnyside Community P Osborne, Robert S. P Berkeley Springs Paula Osborne E Owen, Jan G. /IP Waynesboro Second P Painter, William L., Jr. E Pancake, Joseph S. E Perkins, P. Parker, Jr. P Peterson, John C. P Covenant Jane Lobb Troy Rexrode P Pettit, Ann R. Assoc Massanutten P Pettit, Patrick S. IP Smyrna A Poland, Ernest L. Jr. ML A Pollock, Richard Adm E Price, Norman G. P Pyles, Elizabeth P McDowell Absent P Reed, Charles K. P Warm Springs Absent P Reifsnyder, Richard W. P Winchester First Barry Carper Don Winstead Absent P Reller, Charles K. /SS Broadway P Rhyne, C. Thomas P Front Royal Sherry Downs A Robinson, John A., Jr. Adm P Robinson, Sally O. IP Trinity P Ross, Anne M. P Elkton Sarah Smith A Schmahl, Carl E Sefcik, Joseph T. 43

8 P Shearer, J. David P Bethel Jill Webb A Sherman, H. Wray P Hermitage Absent A Sherrard, Robert L. P Windy Cove Absent P Sieck, Philip L. E Slider, C. Richard II A Sloop, John F. P Smith, Nancy A. ML E Snelson, Andrew L. P Sommer, Philip W. A Sonstegard-Spray, Maren Assoc Winchester First E Stanley, Arthur L. E Stephens, Millard M. P Stokes, Martin L. P New Monmouth Charlie Cathcart E Swezey, Charles M. A Symons, Charles D., Jr. P Thomas, Aaron Lee P Olivet Langdon Reid E Thornton, Joel P. P Cedar Creek Absent Clear Brook Julie Baker Ivanhoe Absent Middletown Annette Whitley Mt. Hope Maxine Caperton Second Opequon Absent Wardensville Helen Rudy P Tremba, Randall W. P Shepherdstown Absent E Tutterow, Christina B. P Bethesda Excused A Unger, Philip E. ML E Vernon, Joseph H. J. E von Oeyen, Jr., Robert A Watkins, John M. P Webb, Lisa M. P Woodstock Jerry Germroth P Webb, Randall E. Supply Nineveh A Whiteley, Nancy S. E Wilkers, Jack B. P Staunton Third Excused A Wilkinson, Donald S. P Wilson, Joan M. Supply Mt. Storm A Wilson, Stanton R. P Witt, David R. P Opequon Paula McNichols Absent E Woodworth, Robert B. P Wyche, Frank P Hebron Robin Moyer E Young, Betty Jean P Young, James R. M. DP Westminster Absent E Young, Philip H. A Young, Richard O., Sr. P Ytterock, Jonathan A. P Mount Horeb John Bookhultz CHURCHES WITHOUT INSTALLED PASTORS Ben Salem Absent Bethany Absent Bloomery Ken Johnson Broadway Julie Ritchie Buckton Absent Buffalo Gap Gabe Frank Bunker Hill Wayne Stoliph Burlington John Huffman Circleville Debra Judy Craigsville Absent Elk Branch Excused Fairfield Ken Hawkins 44

9 Falling Waters Gerrardstown Glen Kirk Halltown Hedgesville Highland Memorial Hot Springs Immanuel Kearneysville Keyser Little Falls McCutchen Mossy Creek Mount Carmel Mount Joy Mount Olive Mount Storm Nineveh Oxford Piedmont Pines Chapel Seneca Rocks Slanesville Smyrna Springfield Staunton First Staunton Second Sunnyside Tabler Timber Ridge Tomahawk Trinity Union Warrenton Waynesboro First Waynesboro Second Williamsville Zetta Ron Hansen Joe Sturm Absent Excused Prue Wendel Absent Absent Absent Absent Clint Hillman Sylvia Orendorff Absent Charles Blair Excused Absent Absent Eddie Cosner Sandra Ey Clinton Anderson Lori Evans Daniel Myrtle Absent Excused Laura Meek Excused Louisa Dixon Woodie Wimer Elton Fahnestock Edward McLaughlin Mike Henry Bradley Noll Patti Warner Absent Absent Absent Bill Phillips Absent Absent Excused VOTING RULING ELDERS: Commissioned and Temporary Supply Ruling Elders P Deborah Barnett P William Barnett E James Boyette E Michele Elliott P Tom Forbes P Judy Hensley P Carol Miller P Isca Mitchell A William Moore P Alan Morrison P Linda Reece P Dwight Rinard E Alvin Russell A Bobby Spurgeon P Ron Wilkes P Paul Wolverton Voting Ruling Elders of Presbytery Staff or Presbytery Leadership Team (PLT): P Pat Armstrong, PLT P Doug Sensabaugh, Staff Ruling Elder E Paul Dana, PLT P Houston Lynch, PLT, Vice-Moderator P David Dax, PLT P H. Richard Travis, Stated Clerk E Greg Trobaugh, PLT 45

10 NON-VOTING VISITORS: Candidates Helen Punker Robertson Visiting Ministers Mary Johns, James Presbytery David Duckworth, Parish of Valleys Presbytery Staff Kim Stroupe Visitors Richard Armstrong Ann Barb Tamara Barbour Sam Carr Ron Clements Isaac Crumley Jeanie Cushwa Irene Elliott Linda Eutsler Kevin Freed Margaret Freed Doris Fultz Jim Fultz Nancy Hall Eleanor Held Charlotte Hott Lynette Johnson Donna Lanaghan Joyce Miller Ken Miller Louisa Painter Virginia Painter Donna Patterson Charles Polen Charles Quick Elaine Quick Kathy Quimby Beth Raynes Don Roll Lindsay Sensabaugh Marcus Sensabaugh Bonnie Shearer Miriam Shearer Glen Sherrard Linda Shreckhise Pauline Sydnor June VanLear Larry VanLear Annette Whitley Bob Wise Helen Wise Connie Wood Teaching Elders = 68 Voting Ruling Elders = 80 Additional Guests = 46 TOTAL = 194 WELCOME The Moderator welcomed all visitors and ruling elder commissioners were recognized for this being their first Presbytery meeting. The 2014 confirmation class of the Moorefield Church was present. Rev. Katherine Jackson welcomed everyone to Moorefield Presbyterian Church. APPOINTMENTS The Moderator appointed the following: Assistant Clerks Ruling Elder Ken Johnson of Bloomery, Ruling Elder Beverly Keadle of Romney, and Commissioned Ruling Elder Tom Forbes of Piedmont. Teaching Elder Fred Holbrook served as the parliamentarian. MINUTES APPROVED The Body approved the minutes of the stated session held on February 8, 2014 as distributed. NEW BUSINESS The Supplemental Reports were accepted as new business. The docket was approved as presented. (See page 56) DOCKET FOR INFORMATION ONLY Several committees submitted written reports for information. See pages for reports from Church Development, World Wide Ministries, Preparation for Ministry, and Campus Ministry. 46

11 TRANSITIONAL PRESBYTER Rev. Roy Martin reported that the Transition Team is working and that committees are preparing updates to the Presbytery Manual. Roy is meeting with individuals from three administrative commissions (ACs) who have used the presbytery s church dismissal guidelines. The purpose of these meetings is to review the guidelines for possible revision. Upon doing research on dismissal guidelines, Roy found a recent General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission (GAPJC) case that indicated that some of our present guidelines were not in complete compliance. Our current policy allows congregational voting on deciding to leave the Presbyterian denomination. The GAPJC decision clearly rules against congregational voting formulas because the presbytery by the trust clause owns the church property. A presbytery has to determine property values and having a congregation vote on dismissal by a certain percentage replaces a presbytery s fiduciary responsibility and is not permitted by the Book of Order. Members of the ACs who have used the current guidelines are making revisions to be presented to Committee on Ministry and the Presbytery Leadership Team. STATED CLERK REPORT Ruling Elder Richard Travis gave the following report, which was approved: I. FOR INFORMATION: After a wonderful, thoughtful orientation on February 25, 2014, by David Witt, former stated clerk, I began my responsibilities on March 1, Along with Roy Martin, I attended the Orientation of General Assembly Commissioners, Alternates and Young Adult Advisory Delegates at Lexington Presbyterian Church on March 8, Roy presented a well-organized and useful orientation on the use of PC-biz.org which is the program that will prepare and be used by commissioners at the meeting. I followed up with an of notes of the meeting and list of contact information of our commissioners, alternate, and youth adult advisory delegate. Our commissioners for the 221 General Assembly in Detroit, Michigan on June 14-21, 2014 are: Ellen Blose, Skip Hastings, Barbara Johnson, Blake Shockey, and Rebekah Witt (YAAD). Please pray for them as they study the many items of business before their travel to Detroit and for the guiding of the Holy Spirit as they vote in the General Assembly meetings. I attended the Stated Clerk Orientation at the General Assembly Office in Louisville, Kentucky April 3-5, We need hosts for the February 14, 2015 presbytery meeting which in our normal rotation would come from the Highland-Augusta Mission Community and for the May 12, 2015 meeting which would come from the Eastern Panhandle Mission Community. II. RECOMMENDATION: Since the Dismissal Guidelines for Shenandoah Presbytery, are not in compliance due to a recent General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission (GAPJC) case, Tom v. Presbytery of San Francisco (GAPJC Remedial Case ), future administrative commissions dealing with church dismissal will have the flexibility to follow those portions of the dismissal guidelines not inconsistent with the GAPJC decision until new guidelines are approved by the presbytery. BACKGROUND: Our Dismissal Guidelines for Shenandoah Presbytery, are not in compliance due to a recent General Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission (GAPJC) case, Tom v. Presbytery of San Francisco (GAPJC Remedial Case ). For example, presbyteries may not require specific congregational voting percentages such as the current VI. in our guidelines. Revised guidelines are currently being developed and will be presented possibly at the August presbytery meeting. Any recommended changes will go through Committee on Ministry before presentation at a presbytery meeting. 47

12 OMNIBUS MOTION From the Stated Clerk: A. Excuse from attendance of all or part of this stated meeting those ministers who submit such a request. B. Receive the annual reports of ministers, candidates, inquires, DCE s and churches for the year December 31, 2013, as printed on pages C. Receive the statistical reports summary for the year ending December 31, 2013, as printed on pages From Committee on Preparation for Ministry: That Presbytery elect the following readers for the ordination exams August 4-8, and November 3-7, Ruling Elders: Mary Lou McMillin, Susanne Taylor, Charles Robertson, Emerson Deitz (alternate) Teaching Elders: George Evans, Kevin Hand, Tom Barner, Dan McCoig (alternate) From Committee on Ministry: That Presbytery approve granting the status of honorably retired to the Rev. Ann Reed Held effective May 31, That Presbytery approve the changes in terms of call as founds on pages All items in the omnibus motion were approved. COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Ruling Elder Doug Sensabaugh reported that electrical advances have been made at the Presbytery Office to begin the project of conducting online meetings. COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY (COM) Rev. Beth McCrary, chair, gave the following report, which was approved. Rev. Jonathan Bunker conducted the examinations of the candidates and ministers. I. FOR INFORMATION: A. Regarding whether the Presbytery will establish a dues-sharing policy. COM referred this to the Pastoral Care and Wellness Committee for review. B. Received the following written exit interviews: Rev. Carl Schmahl Warrenton Session Rev. Carl Moore C. Received the written annual reports from ministers at-large and validated ministries. II. ACTIONS TAKEN: A. Approved renewing the contract between the Williamsville Session and Candidate Helen Punker Robertson from January 1-December 31, B. Approved the supply pastor contract between the Hot Springs Session and the Rev. Scott Conrad from March 1, 2014-February 28,

13 C. Approved the part-time interim contract between the Waynesboro Second Session and the Rev. Jan Owen from February 23, 2014-February 22, D. Approved renewing the interim contract between the Mossy Creek Session and the Rev. Glenn Coleman from May 1, 2014-April 30, E. Approved renewing the temporary supply contract between the Falling Waters Session and the Rev. Brad Langdon to serve at the Mountain Chapel from January 1-December 31, F. Dissolved the pastoral relationship between the Rev. Connie Dorn and the Broadway Church effective March 31, 2014 and designated the Rev. Dorn as a minister at-large. G. Dissolved the pastoral relationship between the Rev. Carl Moore and the Fairfield and Timber Ridge churches effective February 28, 2014 and transferred the Rev. Moore to the Presbytery of Susquehanna Valley. H. Revised the supply list as follows: Added: Rev. Bill Everhart, Rev. James Atwood, Rev. Roxanna Atwood, and Ruling Elder Mark Wilson Removed: Rev. Sid Pinch per his request I. Approved candidate David Shearer to move on the field at Bethel Presbyterian Church, provided New Castle Presbytery allows him to engage in a covenant relationship, according to the provisions in G , until such time as the Presbytery of Shenandoah examines, ordains, and installs him. J. Designated $1500 of the restricted net assets of the COM for use by Professional Development in K. When there is no installed pastor or when it is not prudent for the installed pastor to moderate the session of a congregation in the presbytery, COM authorized the Rev. Roy Martin, Transitional Presbyter, to moderate. L. Approved renewing the supply contract between the Nineveh Session and the Rev. Randy Webb from January 1-December 31, M. Dismissed the Rev. Ron Potter to the Presbytery of Central Florida effective March 1, N. Approved renewing the contract between Craigsville Church Session and Gwen Carr, from June 1, 2014-May 31, O. Approved the part-time interim contract between the Timber Ridge Church Session and the Rev. Steve Cathcart, from May 1, 2014-May 1, P. Approved renewing the interim contract between the Smyrna Church Session and the Rev. Patrick Pettit, from April 1, 2014-March 31, Q. Approved the temporary supply contract between the Sunnyside Church Session and the Rev. Bill Everhart from April 1-September 30, 2014, pending approval of reallocation of monetary values. R. Approved renewing the commissioned ruling elder contract between the Tomahawk Church Session and Bill Barnett, from May 1, 2014-April 30, S. Approved the supply contract between the Broadway Church Session and the Rev. Charlie Reller, from April 13-August 31, T. Approved the commission for installation between the Massanutten Church and the Rev. Ann Pettit as Associate Pastor on June 1, 2014, at 4:00 p.m. 49

14 U. Approved renewing the commissioned ruling contract between the Springfield Session and Linda Reece from May 1, 2014-April 30, V. Approved the interim contract between the Trinity Session and the Rev. Sally Robinson from June 1, 2014-May 31, W. Concurred with the request of the Rev. Maren Sonstegard-Spray and the session of Winchester First Church to dissolve the pastoral relationship effective July 6, (Congregation met on May 4, 2014) X. Approved that Rev. Maren Sonstegard-Spray be enrolled as a member-at-large of the Presbytery. Y. Concurred with the request of the Rev. Amy Fetterman and the session of the Covenant Church to dissolve the pastoral relationship effective June 30, (Congregation met on January 5, 2014) Z. Approved that Rev. Amy Fetterman be enrolled as a member-at-large of the Presbytery. AA. BB. Pending the necessary approvals from Covenant, approved abolishing the associate pastor position at Covenant Church Appointed Rev. Randy Webb as the new COM liaison to Church Development. III. RECOMMENDATIONS: A. Concerning Jon David Shearer: (candidate of New Castle Presbytery) 1. That Presbytery approve the sermon as required by Preparation for Ministry. 2. That Presbytery receive a brief statement of personal faith and commitment to the ministry of Word and Sacrament. (See pages 63-64) 3. That Presbytery conduct further examination of the candidate s Christian faith and views in theology, sacraments, Bible, and government of this church as it deems necessary. 4. That the examination as a whole be approved. 5. That upon his acceptance and subscription of the obligations undertaken in the ordination vows upon his ordination and installation, Jon David Shearer be enrolled as a member of Shenandoah Presbytery as pastor of the Bethel Church. 6. That Presbytery approve the following terms of call from the Bethel Church beginning March 23, 2014: Annual cash salary $31,200 Of the above, $3,120 is designated as IRS housing allowance for furnishings, utilities, and insurance at the manse. Self Employment Contribution Act 3,744 Board of Pensions 13,260 Shared Housing Equity 1,248 Dental Insurance 1,000 Cell phone, laptop, monthly subscriptions 1,500 Travel reimbursement 3,500 Continuing education 1,000 Books and materials 250 Other 600 Church will escrow $2,000 annually to prepare for pulpit supply during sabbatical leave after six years of service. 50

15 Moving expenses to the field Four weeks annual paid vacation, including four Sundays Two weeks annual paid study leave, including two Sundays Disability clause Use of manse 7. That Presbytery approve the following commission to ordain and install Jon David Shearer as the pastor of the Bethel Church on Sunday, May 25, 2014, 3:00 p.m. Teaching Elders Betty Dax, Presbytery Moderator Fred Holbrook John Peterson Randy Webb Ruling Elders James Williams, Bethel Isca Mitchell, Pines Chapel Betsy Ruehl, Waynesboro First Hannah Bush, Hebron In addition, presbytery is requested to invite the Rev. Osy Nuesch, teaching elder from the Presbytery of Philadelphia, to sit with the commission and share in this service by reading Scripture. Convener Betty Dax Preside and Propound Questions to Teaching Elder Betty Dax Ruling Elder to Propound Questions to Congregation James Williams Preach Sermon John Peterson Charge Congregation Randy Webb Charge Teaching Elder Fred Holbrook B. Concerning Jonathan A. Ytterock: (candidate of Lake Huron Presbytery) 1. That Presbytery approve the sermon as required by Preparation for Ministry. 2. That Presbytery receive a brief statement of personal faith and commitment to the ministry of Word and Sacrament. (See pages 65-66) 3. That Presbytery conduct further examination of the candidate s Christian faith and views in theology, sacraments, Bible, and government of this church as it deems necessary. 4. That the examination as a whole be approved. 5. That upon his acceptance and subscription of the obligations undertaken in the ordination vows upon his ordination and installation, Jonathan A. Ytterock be enrolled as a member of Shenandoah Presbytery as pastor of the Mt. Horeb Church. 6. That Presbytery approve the following terms of call from the Mt. Horeb Church beginning May 14, 2014: Annual cash salary $40,000 Of the above, $6,000 is designated as IRS housing allowance for furnishings, utilities, and insurance at the manse. Self Employment Contribution Act 3,886 Board of Pensions 18,974 Shared Housing Equity 1,200 Travel reimbursement 5,000 Continuing education 500 Other 500 Church will escrow $250 annually to prepare for pulpit supply during sabbatical leave after six years of service. Moving expenses to the field Four weeks annual paid vacation, including four Sundays Two weeks annual paid study leave, including two Sundays Disability clause Use of manse 51

16 7. That Presbytery approve the following commission to ordain and install Jonathan A. Ytterock as the pastor of the Mt. Horeb Church on Sunday, June 15, 2014, 3:00 p.m. Teaching Elders Betty Dax, Presbytery Moderator Olivia Haney Tully Hunter Ruling Elders Sam Carr, Mt. Horeb Laura Meek, Smyrna Mary Lou McMillin, Trinity Doug Sensabaugh, Massanutten In addition, presbytery is requested to invite the Rev. Paul Ytterock, teaching elder from the Presbytery of Lake Huron, to sit with the commission and share in this service by preaching the sermon. Convener Betty Dax Preside and Propound Questions to Teaching Elder Betty Dax Ruling Elder to Propound Questions to Congregation Sam Carr Preach Sermon Paul Ytterock Charge Congregation Mary Lou McMillin Charge Teaching Elder Tully Hunter Leadership Roles of Other Commission Members in the Service - Read Scripture - Laura Meek Reaffirmation of Baptism & Thanksgiving for Baptism - Olivia Haney C. Concerning the Rev. James Atwood: 1. That Presbytery sustain the examination of Mr. Atwood following the statement of his Christian experience and an opportunity for questions from the floor. (See pages 67-68) 2. That Presbytery enroll him as an honorably retired member of Presbytery (transferring from the Presbytery of National Capital) following the examination and the signing of the Book of Obligations. D. Concerning the Rev. Roxana Atwood: 1. That Presbytery sustain the examination of Ms. Atwood following the statement of her Christian experience and an opportunity for questions from the floor. (See pages 69-70) 2. That Presbytery enroll her as an honorably retired member of Presbytery (transferring from the Presbytery of National Capital) following the examination and the signing of the Book of Obligations. E. Concerning the Rev. Charles Steve Cathcart: 1. That Presbytery sustain the examination of Mr. Cathcart following the statement of his Christian experience and an opportunity for questions from the floor. (See pages 71-72) 2. That Presbytery enroll him as an honorably retired member of Presbytery (transferring from the Presbytery of Charlotte) following the examination and the signing of the Book of Obligations. F. COM moves that Shenandoah Presbytery recommends to its churches that they assume the cost for the increase in the member plus dependent Board of Pensions dues (from 23% to 24.5% of the effective salary) for PRESBYTERY LEADERSHIP TEAM Rev. Martin Stokes, chair, reported that the Leadership Team met on Tuesday, April 8, 2014, and heard verbal reports from Committee on Ministry, Nominations, Budget and Finance, Church Development, Communications, Office and Personnel, Small Church Task Force, Nurture and Outreach, World Wide Ministries as well as a report from each mission community. The Budget and Finance Committee reports that 93% of the churches have submitted their 2014 benevolence acceptance. 52

17 OFFICE AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE (O&P) Rev. Melissa Harmon, chair, gave the following report, which was approved: I. FOR INFORMATION: We have authorized work on the building Fix gutter by back entrance Fix gutter that came detached Fix hole in ceiling Deal with electrical issues that were brought up during recent inspection All of this work has been paid for with budget money or a request to another committee for funds. Heather Carter has been notified and paid each item according to the direction of the committee. Dick Travis has been a wonderful Stated Clerk, however due to some health issues does not feel he will be able to fill the position past October. Thus we will begin a new search for a Stated Clerk. We are required to have one according to the Book of Order. If you feel a call, please let us know. II. RECOMMENDATIONS: A. Recommend that the Presbytery Manual be changed to reflect a new policy: New The office will be open four days a week: Monday through Thursday. Old The office will be officially open four days a week: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. It is expected that some people may be in the office on Wednesdays, but the phone will be put on automatic voic , and they will not be expected to answer the phone except when calls are directed to their desk. Wednesdays off are given to offset time spent in night and weekend meetings. B. Recommend that section 5.3 Job Descriptions be removed from the Presbytery Manual and once revised, be placed in Personnel Polices. Rationale: O&P has been working on a new kind of job description that was introduced by our Presbyter- that is a living document o there are tasks and duties that are assigned to all staff o Staff have input in their job description o If a task is not being completed for any reason and the committee and staff want to change it- it can be changed with new job description o this will lead to better evaluations Presbytery only meets 4 times a year- Presbytery has to vote on Manual changes- if we change something- then Presbytery has to vote. o This prohibits this committee from doing the work it has been tasked to do o This allows the committee to make changes as necessary for the good of the staff and presbytery We will still report changes to Presbytery The Manual is being updated and the future recommendation of this committee will be to place the Personnel Policies as an appendix to the Manual NEW WORSHIPING COMMUNITIES Rev. Amy Fetterman introduced a video on 1001 Worshiping Communities, This site has stories of new worshiping communities across the Denomination. 53

18 SOCIETY OF ST. ANDREW Lynette Johnson, Church Relationship Director, shared the work of the Society of St. Andrew, which was formed in It is a gleaning organization, working with farmers, volunteers and feeding agencies to help feed the hungry. Often the gleaned food is provided to people within 24 hours. Shenandoah Presbytery s portion of the 4Cents A Meal program provided 831,150 servings of nourishing food through the Society. NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE Rev. Fred Holbrook, on behalf of the Committee, presented the following report, which was approved: That Presbytery elect the following to serve: Ruling Elder Don Roll from New Providence Church as first alternate ruling elder to General Assembly. Ruling Elder Hannah Bush from Hebron Church as second alternate ruling elder to General Assembly. Committee on Ministry Beth McCrary as chair Communications Class of 2014: Carol Miller to replace Glenn Coleman Church Development Class of 2016: David Witt to replace Carl Moore Professional Development Richard Travis as chair There were no nominations from the floor. RECESS Following prayer by Rev. Katherine Jackson, a delicious lunch served by the host church was enjoyed by all. INTERCESSORY PRAYERS Rev. Philip Sieck led the body in prayer remembering the many persons and causes that members of Shenandoah Presbytery had called to our attention in written concerns during the morning. CAMP PADDY RUN Ann Tubbs, Director, described some of the 50th birthday celebration of Camp Paddy Run, the arrangements for the August 23, 2014 presbytery meeting, and other offerings at the camp this summer. Dean Greenwood, who was a camper for many years and is now a counselor, thought of the theme: Come to the meeting, stay for the fun. Anyone is welcome to come to Camp Paddy Run on August 23 and enjoy camp activities as the meeting is going on or after the meeting. Birthday Bash will be available for ages 6-16 as well as a nursery for under 6. (See pages for written report) SMALL CHURCH TASK FORCE Rev. Phil Sommer shared a report on behalf of the Small Church Task Force, commonly known as the fun-sized congregations. Phil reviewed the many activities of Piedmont Presbyterian Church as an example of a fun size church. In the 1960s, Piedmont had 450 members and now with the loss of population associated with a mine and paper mill closing, the membership is 48. However, they have multiple mission activities that use 18% of their annual budget. Their first priority in giving each year is to their presbytery allocation. They have their worship service on their website, it averages 80 hits per week, and there are families in North Carolina that follow the worship on the web each week. See page 73 for a written report. HONORING THE REVEREND ANN REED HELD Rev. Ann Reed Held was recognized upon her retirement on May 31, Teaching Elder Fred Holbrook and Ruling Elder Mary Lou McMillin voiced their appreciation of Ann and her years of service to the Presbytery and Trinity Church. Ann was joined by her daughter Eleanor and members from Trinity to celebrate this joyous occasion. 54

19 TRANSFORMATION COMMITTEE Rev. Malcolm Brownlee, chair, introduced ruling elder Karen Thatcher. Karen highlighted some of the many activities of the Tuscarora Church which was organized in 1740 and currently has around 150 members. The church prides itself on being friendly and puts visitors on the church list after a few visits. The children have opportunities to participate in the life of the church in mission programs and children s church. The Presbyterian Women make and deliver prayer shawls for adults and babies. There is a very strong music program that has a much anticipated Christmas program each year. SYNOD COMMISSIONER REPORT Rev. John Cushwa attended the meeting of the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic on March 17-18, 2014 in Richmond, VA. The Rev. Warren Lesane, Jr. was installed as the executive and stated clerk at the meeting. See pages for a written report. COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE The Communications Committee has been exploring technological means for having off-site interactive meetings. Rev. Patrick Lanaghan indicated that FUZE is the video conferencing system of their choice, and that it has HD capability anywhere high speed internet is available. The Committee has also been performing web site trainings in which you leave the training with an active web site. MOFFETT FOR MISSION Rev. Carl Howard reported for Rev. Randy Tremba on Shepherdstown Church s program, Caring Cupboard, that received a grant from the Moffett Fund. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 2:45 p.m. with prayer led by the Moderator. Presbytery will meet in stated session on Saturday, August 23, 2014, at Camp Paddy Run in Star Tannery, Virginia beginning at 9:30 a.m. PLEASE DRESS APPROPRIATELY. Betty G. Dax, Moderator H. Richard Travis, Stated Clerk Kimberly T. Stroupe, Recording Clerk 55

20 DOCKET (Members of Presbytery are urged to be registered and seated by 9:00a.m. If not yet registered, please do so right after worship) 8:30 a.m. REGISTRATION BEGINS 9:30 a.m. Opening Prayer and Call to Order 9:35 a.m. Worship 10:30 a.m. Determining a Quorum Welcome and Introduction of Guests First time commissioners Seating corresponding members Appointments by the Moderator Correction and Approval of Minutes New Business Adoption of the Docket Communications and Report of the Stated Clerk Omnibus Motion Presbytery Staff Reports Representative of host church Rev. Katherine Jackson 11:00 a.m. Committee on Ministry, Rev. Beth McCrary Examination of candidates and ministers, Rev. Jonathan Bunker 11:45 a.m. Presbytery Leadership Team, Rev. Martin Stokes Budget and Finance Office and Personnel, Rev. Melissa Harmon 12:00 p.m. New Worshiping Communities Rev. Amy Fetterman 12:05 p.m. Society of St. Andrew, Lynette Johnson 12:10 p.m. Nominations Committee 12:15 p.m. Camp Paddy Run, Rev. Kerry Foster and Amy Tubbs 12:20 p.m. Small Church Task Force, Rev. Phil Sommer 12:30 p.m. Lunch (Order of the Day) 1:30 p.m. Intercessory Prayer 1:35 p.m. Committee on Ministry, continued Celebration of Ministry, Rev. Ann Reed Held 1:50 p.m. Church Development Transformation Sub-committee, Rev. Malcolm Brownlee 2:10 p.m. Synod Commissioner Report, Rev. John Cushwa 2:20 p.m. Communications Committee, Rev. Patrick Lanaghan 2:35 p.m. Moffett for Mission, Shepherdstown Church 2:40 p.m. Anticipated Adjournment 56

21 ANNUAL REPORT PRESBYTERY OF SHENANDOAH The Presbytery of Shenandoah respectfully reports to the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic for the year ending December 31, 2013, that it consists of 170 ministers, 107 churches, 12 chapels, 14,536 communicants and has under its care 3 Candidates for the Ministry of the Word and 8 Inquirers for the Ministry of the Word. MINISTERS Received Date Jon Heeringa May 14 Constance Dorn August 24 Bonnie Habbersett August 24 Nancy Smith August 24 Dismissed F. Lee McDermott February 14 John Walter Canter February 17 Dismissed to Other Denominations Glen Holman October 10 Charles McFarlin December 31 Pastoral Relationships Established Rachel Crumley and Tuscarora May 13 Jon Heeringa and Harrisonburg First June 3 Constance Dorn and Broadway August 25 Pastoral Relationships Dissolved Kevin Hand and Upper Tract February 15 Scott Conrad and Glen Kirk February 28 Patrick Pettit and Mossy Creek March 31 Glen Holman and Waynesboro First March 31 Glenn Coleman and Hot Springs April 21 Rachel Crumley and Front Royal April 28 John Sloop and Harrisonburg First May 31 John McDonald and Waynesboro Second July 31 Carl Schmahl and Warrenton September 30 John Cushwa and Falling Waters October 20 Richard Dietrich and Staunton First October 31 Ron Potter and Sunnyside October 31 Honorably Retired Date John Sloop May 31 Carl Schmahl September 30 John Cushwa October 20 Richard Dietrich October 31 Deceased Date John Earl April 8 Clifford Caldwell May 27 James Jackson June 23 James Lindsey October 11 Removed from Roll None 57

22 CANDIDATES For Ordination Presbytery Ordination Date John Walter Canter February 9 February 17 Received None Enrolled None Removed from Roll None INQUIRERS Enrolled Date Seth Lovell April 16 Removed from Roll None Enrolled None Established None DIRECTORS OF CISTIAN EDUCATION CHURCHES Received None Dissolved Presbytery Upper Tract May 14 Dismissed Presbytery Spring Hill December 17 58

23 Membership Prior Active Members 15,557 SHENANDOAH PRESBYTERY CHURCH RECORD 2013 Gains Losses Profession 17 & Under -123 Certificate 250 Profession 18 & Over 168 Death 305 Certificate 137 Other 936 Other 42 Total Losses 1,491 Total Gains 470 Ending Active Membership 14,536 (-1,021) See pages Female Members 7063 Baptized Members 1690 Total Adherents Average Church Attendance 6990 Affiliate Members 73 Baptisms Officers Children -125 Male Session -448 Female Session 475 Adults 44 Male Deacons 85 Female Deacons 113 Age Distribution 25 & Under = = = 2318 Over 65 = 4321 People with Disabilities Hearing -601 Mobility -525 Sight -263 Other 270 Christian Education Birth Grade Grade Young Adults 375 Age Grade Grade Over Kindergarten -136 Grade Grade Teacher/Officer 639 Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade Grade TOTAL 5417 Racial Ethnic Breakdown Membership Ruling Elders Deacons Asian 24 1 Black 7 1 African American 27 1 African 8 Middle Eastern 3 Native American Hispanic 21 1 White Potential Giving Units 8793 Budgeted Income -13,864,744 Budgeted Expense 30,890,901 Receipts Regular Contribution 25,401,496 Capital Building Fund 1,454,035 Investment Income 1,412,368 Bequests 2,273,157 Other Income 1,175,551 Subsidy or Aid 38,447 Expenditures Local Program 12,545,612 Local Mission 879,747 Capital Expenditure 1,348,544 Investment Expense 780,626 Per Capita Apprt 451,503 Validated Mission 522,206 Theological Fund 13,984 Other Mission 308,538 59

24 MEM MEM CHURCH BERS BERS Augusta Stone Berkeley Springs Berryville Bethany Bethel Bethesda Beulah Bloomery Bridgewater Broadway Buckton Buena Vista Buffalo Gap Bunker Hill Burlington Burnt Charles Town Circleville Collierstown Cooks Creek Covenant Craigsville Elk Branch Elkton Fairfield Falling Waters Finley Memorial Franklin Front Royal Gerrardstown Glen Kirk Halltown Harrisonburg First 1, Hebron Hedgesville Hermitage Highland Memorial Hot Springs Kearneysville

25 Keyser Lexington Little Falls Loch Willow Martinsburg First Massanutten McCutchen McDowell Monterey Moorefield Mossy Creek Mt. Carmel Mt. Horeb Mt. Olive Mt. Storm New Monmouth New Providence Nineveh Olivet Opequon Oxford Parish of Pastures Goshen Millboro Rocky Spring Parish of Shenandoah Ben Salem Immanuel Mt. Joy Parish of Valleys Cedar Creek 9 7 Clear Brook Ivanhoe Middletown Mt. Hope Second Opequon Wardensville Petersburg Piedmont Pines Chapel Pisgah

26 Romney Ruddle Seneca Rocks Shepherdstown Sherando Slanesville Smyrna Spring Hill Springfield Staunton First Staunton Second Staunton Third Strasburg Sunnyside Tabler Timber Ridge Tinkling Spring Tomahawk Trinity Tuscarora Union Upper Tract 15 0 Warm Springs Warrenton Waynesboro First Waynesboro Second Westminster Williamsville Winchester First Windy Cove Woodstock Zetta TOTALS 15,557 14,536 62

27 Jon David Shearer, III Biographical Sketch Jon David Shearer III was born in Salisbury, MD on December 25, His parents are Sara Shearer and Jon Shearer, a nurse and a primary school principal respectively. Originally baptized in a Methodist church, David spent most of his years attending Wicomico Presbyterian Church, a PCUSA congregation. He was very involved in the youth group and music groups there. David took a leadership role with the youth and spent many nights a week at the church preparing for services, helping with his fellow youth, practicing music, and setting up the sanctuary and fellowship halls for various events. From a young age, David was interested in music and he originally went to college to study music education with a focus on voice. However, at Messiah College in Grantham, PA, David realized his love for biblical scholarship and theology which eventually would lead him to his path of ordination. Messiah College is also where David met his future wife Bonnie. Originally intending to become a Hebrew Bible professor, David attended Princeton Theological Seminary. While there he began to feel the call of God and pursued ordination within the Presbyterian Church (USA), but his love for biblical scholarship remained. David had the opportunity to work on the Princeton Dead Sea Scrolls Project under the direction of Professor James Charlesworth. The goal of the project is to publish a critical edition of the non-biblical Dead Sea Scrolls and provide a new translation. This involved inspecting photographs of the decaying scrolls and figuring out what had been written on them millennia ago. While the world of scholarship was very rewarding, David could not deny the call of God to parish ministry and he and his family left the project and Princeton in David did a year long internship with Reverend Osy Nuesch, a Presbyterian Pastor serving at Six Mile Run Reformed Church in New Jersey. He learned a great deal under Osy s tutelage about the theology of worship and how to construct a worship service to highlight the most important aspects of our devotion to God. He also did a summer internship at Oak Tree Presbyterian Church with Reverend Jill Kitsko who also served as the chaplain of a local assisted living institution that helped many individuals that had suffered brain injuries. While serving there, David learned to design and lead worship services for individuals that needed special consideration due to having psychological needs that differed from most congregations. David is married to Bonnie Shearer and is the father of Miriam Shearer who was born on December 10,

28 Jon David Shearer, III Faith Statement I believe in the One Triune God; one God with Three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Being true persons, these three in one are not merely masks or modes of being that God chooses to express himself in, but are rather essential to the Godhead. While having three Persons, our God is nonetheless indivisible, one single God with three persons, not three separate deities. God is revealed to us in the Holy Scriptures. While other documents, ancient and modern, refer to God and may even do so with truth, God is uniquely revealed in these documents written by human hands and inspired by the Holy Spirit. However, Scripture must always be understood in its historical context. As we are not the original audience for any of these writings, it is important to understand the cultural norms and belief structures of those that wrote them before we can understand how to apply them to our lives and beliefs today. God the Father, through the Son Jesus Christ with the Holy Spirit, one God, created the universe. The universe is wholly dependent on God. Without God, the universe could not be, but God does not depend on the universe. God did not create the universe out of loneliness, but rather as an expression of love. God created humankind of all races, sexes, and ethnicities to be the recipients of his love. All were created equal by God. However, through human action, men and women sinned separating themselves from God. God chose to establish a covenant relationship with the Hebrew people and blessed them so that the entire world would be blessed through them. God gave the law and the prophets which spoke to the restoration of a right relationship between God and all people. To that end, when the time was truly right, God became a human being, the man Jesus. Jesus is fully human and fully God. Jesus was not created by God the Father, but rather he is co-eternal with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the true self-revelation of God. Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary. He gathered disciples, taught, performed miracles, and lived a holy life. Though he was blameless and without sin, he was crucified under the Romans. Here the God-Man died. Through this sacrifice, our sins were imputed upon him while his sinlessness was imputed upon us. Three days later Jesus rose from the dead, a true bodily resurrection, not merely an illusion or collective hallucination, but an actual return to life. By returning to life from death, Jesus defeated the powers of death and enables us to have eternal life. Jesus continued to teach. Then, after blessing them with the Holy Spirit, Jesus ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of God the Father in glory. The Holy Spirit is co-eternal with God the Father and God the Son. The Holy Spirit revealed the truth to the writers of Scripture and is with the Church even now. The Holy Spirit guides and comforts the Church, teaching it the will of God and admonishing it to live in that truth. The Church is the body of Jesus on earth. While the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit toward truth, the Church itself is not infallible. In accordance with tradition, as revealed and shaped by Scripture, the Church ministers to Christians everywhere as well as serves all of humanity demonstrating the grace of God which has been given freely to the Church. The Church s primary responsibilities are to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ for the salvation of all, both in word and deed, perform the Sacraments and provide for the spiritual needs of the people of God, provide for the divine worship and praise of God, preserve the truth that has been revealed to us, promote social righteousness, and reveal the Kingdom of Heaven to all the world. I look to the future when all of humanity is reconciled with God. One day, Jesus will return in all glory and will bring with him the fullness of the Kingdom of God and he will rule forever. This will establish a glorious and eternal paradise. I believe in the resurrection of the dead so that all of the faithful, chosen by God, will join in this eternal praise of their Creator. 64