SAVANNAH PRESBYTERYsavannahpresbytery-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/.../2012/04/… · Web viewI have over the past months elected to use the word transformation instead of ... presence

SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY

WINTER STATED MEETING February 17, 2012

Minutes

Building On Our Faith

Epworth by the SeaSt. Simons Island, GA

Winter 2012 Stated Meeting Minutes P.1

SCHEDULE

9:00 PM Registration Begins at Epworth10:00 PM Meeting Called to Order12:30 PM Lunch 1:30 PM Reconvene 4:00 PM Meeting Adjourned

DOCKET603nd SESSION OF SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY, STATED WINTER MEETING

Friday, February 17, 2012

We are called by God to this Time and Place. We gather in Worship to praise God for all we are and are to be. We seek to honor God in the work we do this day, for all moments are holy as we seek God’s will for God’s Church. We welcome all to this gathering and seek to fellowship together as we celebrate the gift of all life and of our individual lives by God’s grace. May you find today that you have been blessed through the ordinary as well as in the extraordinary, for we are standing, in all our days, on Holy Ground! 9:00 AM Registration (please turn off all cell phones)

10:00 AM Call to Order – Reverend Andy Meeker, Moderator Election of the 2012 Moderator, Ruling Elder Paul Scott

Opening Prayer, Song, and Litany Welcome and Introductions

Determination of Quorum…………………………………………………Appointment of Standing Committees…………………………………….Introduction and Welcoming of first time Elder Attendees & Visitors…...

Organization of the Docket & Meeting Approval of Minutes: October 25, 2011(as submitted online)……………Presentation of the Docket, Handbook……………………………………Docketing of New Business………………………………………………Adoption of the Docket……………………………………………………

Report of the Stated Clerk…….……………………......................... 9, AddendumReport of General Presbyter……...……………………………………..Addendum Report of Treasurer……………………………………………………………11-15

10:30 AM Order of the Day: Presentation and Adoption of the 2012 Savannah Presbytery Budget

11:00 AM Order of the Day: Break Out Discussion – Local Congregation Vitality Led by the Evangelism and Transformation Team

12:30 PM Blessing for our Lunch and continued conversation at table together.1:30 PM Reconvene with Song and Prayer Committee Reports

With RecommendationsPresbytery Council ………………………………………………………….16-18 Church & Polity Team –

Committee on Ministry …………………………………………………..19-24 1:45 PM Order of the Day: Welcome and conversation with The Rev. Stewart Fletcher Education and Training Team………… …………………………………….25-26 Mission Ministry Team……………………………………………………….26 Evangelism and Transformation Team…………………………………….....26-27 Committee on Nominations…………………………………………………..28-30 MK Pentecost Committee…………………………………………………….30-312:30 PM Order of the Day: Resolution from Altama PC – Kerry Klumpe, Chair of the

PJC……………………………………………………………………………31-33


Without Recommendation Savannah Presbytery Task Force………………………………………………..34 Committee on Preparation for Ministry…………………………………………34 Presbyterian Women……………………………………………………………34 Prayer and Song…………………………………………………………………3:00 PM Order of the Day: Report of the Administrative Commission at Hinesville

Korean PC……………………………………………………………………… Special Reports Swainsboro Hispanic Ministry……………………………………..…No Report Swainsboro Apartments………………………………………………Eric Beene Two Minute promotions………………………………………………………… Committee on Resolution & Thanks ……………………………………………34 Necrology………………………………………………………………………..35

Benediction & Adjournment …………………………………………………...35

The next Presbytery Meeting will be on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Allenhurst Presbyterian Church, Allenhurst, GA


603nd SESSION OF SAVANNAH PRESBYTERYWinter Stated Meeting

February 17, 2012 at Epworth Center, St. Simons Island, GA_____________________________________________________________________

Minutes___________________________________________________________

ELECTION OF MODERATORElder Paul Scott was unanimously elected as Moderator of Savannah Presbytery for the

term ending at the Stated Meeting in February, 2013. The Moderator gave a presentation and presented a cross to outgoing Moderator Reverend Andy Meeker with

thanks for his service to Savannah Presbytery.___________________________________________________________

DETERMINATION OF A QUORUMThe Stated Clerk declared a quorum of 29 Voting Minister Members, 30 Voting Elder Commissioners, 2 Voting Commissioned Ruling Elders, 2 Other Voting members, and

20 Other Attendees and Visitors, for a total of 83 in attendance.___________________________________________________________

INTRODUCTION AND DOCKETING OF NEW BUSINESSNo new business was docketed.

___________________________________________________________

ADOPTION OF THE DOCKETThe docket was adopted as presented.

___________________________________________________________

APPROVAL OF THE OCTOBER 25, 2011 STATED MEETING MINUTES

The minutes were approved as posted online.___________________________________________________________

APPOINTMENT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEESThe Moderator appointed Rev. Kevin Hicks from Vidalia PC to serve as the Committee

on Resolution & Thanks.


ROLL CALL, INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOMING OF ELDERS & VISITORS

Savannah Presbytery CommissionersChurch Active Minister Commissioners Serving Churches Elder Commissioner(s)

Allenhurst Ben Beasley Charles RogersAltama Bert Cramer John KileyBlackshear *Ainars Berzinch, Stated Supply Mary Lott WalkerBrunswick Second **Benjamin Holmes, CRE - UnexcusedButler Memorial Don Dilley, Interim Pastor Maxine JacksonChrist Kenneth McKenzie, Stated Supply - Excused Henry BartheEnglish Eddy **Dean Wohlgemuth, CRE - ExcusedFaith Mary Beene, Stated Supply Julia PrattFirst, Brunswick Dawn Mayes - Excused Joe McGooganFirst, Darien **Danny Grace, CRE Kay BurchFirst, Douglas Ed Ayers, Stated Supply Ben WilsonFirst, Eastman *Anne Gibbons, CRE John RicksFirst, Hinesville Kathi Parchem, Interim Pastor David SappFirst, Midway VACANT Curtes RobertsFirst, Saint Marys Rick Douylliez - UnexcusedFirst, Savannah (2) Stephen Williams Jim Baker

William Shelburne, Associate Pastor Bryan StovallFirst, Statesboro Dan Lewis Jean BurnettFirst, Waycross Trip McKinnon - Excused Shelly WoodFlemington Greg Loskoski Hazel StaffordFrederica Andy Chambers - Excused Melissa WilliamsGrant Chapel *Jimmie Sanders, Supply – Not PresentHenry Memorial W. Mark George Norman BuckhouseHinesville Korean Choongyun Yu Yoon PyonJekyll Grady Allison, Stated Supply Alyce BoormanJesup Bill Platt Bud FrankenthalerLyons *Bobby Dixon, Supply - AbsentMcGregor *David Blalock, Supply - AbsentMcRae *Norwood Davidson, Supply - UnexcusedMetter **Joe Anderson, CRE - UnexcusedMontgomery Craig Pope Jason PaquinMount Vernon VACANTPeabody Heights David MuntfordRiceboro *Janet Longnecker, Stated Supply - UnexcusedRichmond Hill Greg Gillispie Tami GarrettSaint Simons (2) Bob Brearley Alex Sifford

Troy Hauser Brydon, Associate Pastor Gwen McKeeJann Briscoe, Parish Associate

Savannah Korean Yoon Nam Cynthia WooStuart Fletcher, Parish Associate

Skidaway Island (2) John Wall - Excused Paul WalterClaire Williams, Parish Associate - Excused

Swainsboro VACANT n/aVidalia Kevin HicksWalthourville VACANT n/aWashington Street Ricky Porter Gloria BrowerWhite Bluff Eric Beene Chris ThomasWilmington Island Andy Meeker

* indicates a non-voting minister as Interim or Supply who is not a member of Savannah Presbytery

** indicates a Commissioned Lay Pastor whose vote counts as an Elder Commissioner, not as a Minister Commissioner


VOTING MINISTER MEMBERS* Required to Attend Presbytery Meetings

Active Minister Members

*Members serving Validated Ministries beyond the jurisdiction of the church (G-2.0503)

Alan Baroody, Exec. Director, Fraser Center….…..Excused Rachel Butler , Chaplain, Memorial Hospital……...Present Ozeas Silva, Swainsboro Hispanic Ministry………Unexcused *Ken McKenzie, Egret’s Roost Respite Center………Excused George Brink - Excused Harry Horne - Excused

Honorably RetiredBob Allman……………………………………..Not PresentArt Bishop…………………………………………..PresentFred Boozer……………………………………..Not PresentJohn Bressler …………………………………...Not PresentGil Clary………………………………………...Not PresentTom Dunlap……………………………………..Not PresentDon Fehr………………………………………...Not PresentDean Jeanblanc………………………………….Not PresentLarry Kennon…………………………………....Not PresentJohn Law……………………………………………PresentDiane Lovin……………………………………..Not PresentWayne McDaniel………………………………..Not PresentThomas Mueller…………………………………Not Present

Cecil R. Taylor………………………………….Not PresentDan Thomas……………………………………..Not PresentJessie Truvillion………………………………....Not PresentCarl Schlich……………………………………...Not Present

*Members At Large (G-2.0503B) Nelle Bordeaux……………………………………Excused

Fairy Caroland.........................................................Excused Susan Lewis……………………………………….Present Deanie Strength……………………………………Excused

Kent Pettit………………………………………UnexcusedClaire Williams……………………………………Excused

* Listed also as a pastor of church

OTHER VOTING MEMBERS*Officers of the Presbytery

Russell Gladding, Acting General Presbyter/Stated Clerk/Treasurer

Presbytery Council * Paul Scott, Moderator of Council………Present * Kathi Parchem, Moderator-Elect….……Present

* Kevin Hicks……………………………Present Karl Branch………………………..Not Present

PRESBYTERY STAFF PERSONNEL Liz Richardson..................................Business Administrator

VISITORS

TOTALSVoting Minister Members............................................29Voting Elder Commissioners………………………...30Voting Commissioned Lay Pastors……………………2Other Voting Members………………………………...2Other Attendees & Visitors………………………..…20Total………………………………………………….83


REPORT OF THE STATED CLERKRuling Elder Russell Gladding

Recommendations:

1. That Savannnah Presbytery approve the request of Savannah Korean Presbyterian Church to be dismissed to the Atlantic Korean American Presbytery, a non-geographic Korean Presbytery subject to confirmation of the Synod of

the South Atlantic, and the 220th General Assembly.

The Recommendation was approved.

2. That Savannah Presbytery approve the request of the Lyons Presbyterian Church to waive the requirements of the Book of Order and allow ruling elder Carl R. Sharpe to serve another term on the Lyons PC Session.


3. That the Standing Rules of Savannah Presbytery be set aside for the Report of the Administrative Commission at Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church and that the following rules be in place for any discussion.

a. Discussion be limited to no more than one hour. b. That the AC be given twenty (20) minutes to present its recommendation and

rationale. c. That the discussion for and against the recommendation be limited to forty

minutes, with no one person speaking more than three(3) minutes at a time and no one speaking twice until all who wish to speak have been given opportunity to speak. That the pro and con speakers will rotate alternately as guided by the Moderator.


4. That the privilege of voice on the floor, with no vote, be given to the members of Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church.


5. That the priviledge of voice on the floor be given to Rev. Bob Morgan and Ruling Elder Jean Vernon.




________________________________________________________________________


REPORT OF ACTING GENERAL PRESBYTERRuling Elder Russell Gladding

It has been my privilege to serve you as the Acting General Presbyter of Savannah Presbytery since March 15, 2011. I have continued my duties as Stated Clerk and Treasurer during this time. Today you will decide whether to continue this particular journey together as God leads us and transforms us as a people, as members, commissioners and churches of Savannah Presbytery. I have over the past months elected to use the word transformation instead of transitional. Perhaps, this is a difference without distinction for certainly we are on a journey, a passage, to determine our future as Savannah Presbytery. The Presbytery Council has changed my title from Acting to Transitional General Presbyter as I seek to lead in this next year, should that be your choice.

No matter what the title, I hope that we will seek to be transformed by God’s Holy Spirit, for that, I believe, is the answer to the end of our sometimes seemingly endless transitions. As a people who follow a resurrected and alive Jesus, we cannot wander in the dessert doing our thing. 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 reminds us; “If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.” My friends it is God who transforms us and indeed gives us our marching orders. As humans it is all too easy to try to do it on our own. I hope that this year of 2012 will be a time where we renew the intentionality of discerning what God is making new in us, as we actively seek to be disciples of the Christ within Savannah Presbytery.

Today, in this meeting, we have opportunities to consider God’s will. Some of the opportunities may seem routine like voting on a budget. Perhaps we should consider what God’s priorities are in the life of Savannah Presbytery. Are there things we should let go of? What new things might God be laying before us? Are our tithes and gifts sufficient for God’s calling to the churches of Savannah Presbytery? Are we being good stewards of our resources?

Other opportunities throughout the day will challenge us to look at new ways of being vital as a church in our local settings. The Evangelism and Transformation Team will lead us as we consider ways God may be at work and is asking us to follow. Maybe that is in the form of larger worshipping communities seeing smaller churches as part of their mission field and of providing human and/or financial resources to them. Perhaps that new thing God is doing is calling a good church to become a better church; seeking ways to move from what is good and comfortable to a place that may not be as clear and might call us to risk for Christ’s sake.


There are yet other items we will consider today. Some are joyful and some are sad and difficult. God leads us as we “Sing O Church In Joy” and as we grieve at an end of what was so promising.

_________________________________________________________________

REPORT OF TREASURER

Ruling Elder Russell Gladding

2011 Year End Report

2011 was a year of ups and downs with separations of staff that required severance pay, reduction in staff, and some angst as to whether the presbytery could make it financially. The economy and other factors caused our pledges to be much lower, and although we tried to be good stewards and reduce our expenses, many things were locked in. We reluctantly passed a deficit budget of <$77,612.>.

I am pleased to report that staff and Ministry Teams doing everything we could to hold the line on expenses, coupled with faithful giving from our churches and increased revenue from our presbytery programs, allowed us to see a positive $20,324 at year end.The negative of that is some of our mission commitments were not realized, and our connectional commitment to the Synod and the General assembly were not able to be paid. We did, however, pay off our per capita commitments to the larger church for 2010.

Today we will vote on the 2012 budget. We have some challenges to face in that we are not the Savannah Presbytery of recent years. There are some discussions, I believe, that even though painful to all of us who love the tradition of this presbytery, need to be commenced. Our current level of pledges is less than last year and so even with a very reduced expense side, we still have decisions to make.

My prayer, and I hope that yours will be, is to ask for God’s guidance as we seek to be faithful stewards, but even more faithful disciples of Jesus.





___________________________________________________________________________


Presbytery Council – BudgetReverend Andy Meeker, Chair

Presentation and Adoption of the 2012 Savannah Presbytery Budget

Simplified 2012 Presbytery BudgetMeeting of Savannah Presbytery17-Feb-12

2010 2011 2012INCOMEChurch Support 342,941$ 293,630$ 273,126$ Grants 12,660$ 11,949$ 12,000$ Investments 26,319$ 17,724$ 26,400$ Other 43,000$ 41,988$ 40,000$

TOTAL INCOME 424,860$ 365,291$ 351,526$

EXPENSESMission/ProgramsEducation 47,973$ 27,034$ 21,850$ Church & Polity 2,240$ 5,888$ 14,500$ Evangelism 41,305$ 31,196$ 30,000$ Mission 21,834$ 9,877$ 14,700$

Total 113,352$ 73,995$ 81,050$

StaffGP/Clerk/Treasurer 151,639$ 136,521$ 77,000$ Support Staff 96,637$ 57,721$ 65,000$ Program Staff 51,961$ 8,144$ -$ Taxes 10,340$ 8,779$ 10,000$

Total 310,577$ 211,165$ 152,000$

Operating Costs 67,933$ 59,156$ 64,000$

Per Capita/Unified Giving 86,672$ 5,000$ 55,000$ TOTAL EXPENSES 578,534$ 349,316$ 352,050$


2012 Presbytery Budget Rational

Income

• The largest portion of the presbytery’s income comes directly from the unified pledges from the churches of Savannah Presbytery.

• Grant Support comes from the Synod of South Atlantic which supports New Church Development/church transformation.

• Historically, Investment Income has come mostly from the interest portion of the loan payments on a mortgage we held on the Hilton Head property that was sold to Providence Presbyterian Church. In 2012, after the mortgage loan was paid in full, the Finance & Stewardship subcommittee of Council has recommended that a 4% draw on the money received (and invested in New Covenant Mutual Funds offered by the Presbyterian Foundation) from the Hilton Head property sale be used to support the Presbytery’s general budget.

• In 2012, the “Other” category of income includes the use of $40,000 from the invested money from the sale of the Hilton Head property for the Hispanic ministry in Swainsboro. Currently, the Presbytery has self-designated these funds to be used for new church development and church transformation projects in the Presbytery.

Expenses

• The Education & Training Team expenses include support for Leadership Development Conference, Summer Camps and some youth events. The 2012 number does not include support for School of the Laity which is taking a “Year of Jubilee”.

• The Church and Polity Team expenses include support for the Committee on Ministry and the Committee on Preparation for Ministry as well as some training and emergency funds.

• Most of the Evangelism & Transformation Team and Mission Team budget goes to supporting the Hispanic ministry in Swainsboro and other projects.

• Staff – We currently have two full-time and one part-time staff members at the Presbytery office. Russell Gladding is doing the work of our General Presbyter, Treasurer and Stated Clerk as one full-time position; Liz Richardson, our Business Administrator, is the other full-time position; Beth Sutton has recently come on board as a part-time (12 hours/week) support person in the office. The Tax line in the budget covers employer-paid payroll taxes.

• Operating Costs covers the day-to-day costs of running the Presbytery office: utilities, phones, computers, copiers, supplies, maintenance, insurance, postage, cleaning, etc.

• Per Capita is the required support for Synod and General Assembly services based on the number of members in each of our churches. It is one indication of the connectional nature of our Presbyterian faith.

A more detailed version of the 2012 budget is available. Please speak with Russell Gladding if you would like a copy.


The 2012 Budget was approved.

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That Savannah Presbytery elect Russell Gladding to continue to serve as the Transitional General Presbyter/Stated Clerk/Treasurer until March 1. 2013.


Information:

Russell Gladding’s breakdown of the $77,000 package under the proposed budget is:Salary - $52,000Benefits - 16,757Auto/ Gas Allowance – 7,200Miscellaneous Travel/Continuing Education – 1,043

Total Compensation Package -= $77,000

_____________________________________________________________________________

ORDER OF THE DAY:

Break Out Discussion – Local Congregation Vitality Led by the Evangelism and Transformation Team

(See team report, pages 26 & 27)

______________________________________________________________________________

PRESBYTERY COUNCIL

Reverend Andy Meeker, Chair

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. That the Reverend Kathi Parchem be elected Moderator Elect of Savannah Presbytery for the three year rotational term 2012 – 2014.


2. That Ruling Elder Elsie Sederholm be elected Moderator Emerita of the M.K. Pentecost Committee and serve as Ex officio to it.



3. A motion was made seconded and passed without objection that the Presbytery Council recommend to the Savannah Presbytery that with introduction of the 2011-2013 Book of Order, the following resolution be adopted. That the Presbytery Council retain its name to perform the functions outlined in the new constitution. That further, the Presbytery and the Presbytery Council, should the new book not be sufficient as to details of operational responsibilities and methods, as outlined in the 2009-2011 Book of Order , “The Provisional First Year Manual for Savannah Presbytery 2010-2011 and the “Savannah Presbytery Manual of 2003”; that these operational guidelines remain in effect on an interim basis to guide the Presbytery and the Council until such time as a new Operational Manual for Savannah Presbytery is written, approved and implemented by the Presbytery.

Further, nothing in this action shall pertain to any other parts of the 2011-2013 Book of Order; and in particular it has no intent to change or limit anything in G-2.01.


INFORMATION:

1. The presbytery council concurs with the Education and Training Team in its decision to not convene the School of the Laity in 2012 and that a Year of Jubilee be observed to discern where god is leading in this area of our ministry.

2. That the Care of Church Professionals committee be dissolved and its functions be merged into the Committee on Ministry.

3. That the FELLOWSHIP AND CELEBRATION TEAM BE DISSOLVED and its functions be incorporated, as appropriate and needed, into the other Mission Teams.

______________________________________________________________________________

REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON MINISTRYReverend Eric Beene, Chair

RECOMMENDATIONS:

1. The Committee on Ministry recommends that Savannah Presbytery adopt the attached “Guidelines for Dissolution and Separation”.

Guidelines for Dissolution and SeparationSavannah PresbyteryPurpose:


According to the Book of Order (G-2.0901), only the Presbytery may dissolve an installed pastoral arrangement. Other arrangements for pastoral services must also be approved by the Presbytery. Sometimes, a congregation and a pastor disagree about whether their pastoral relationship should continue or be dissolved. In such situations, anger, fear, disappointment, and frustration combine with many other emotions for the pastor, his or her family, the congregation, and the congregation’s community. These guidelines are intended to establish a process to smooth out the dissolution process, to ease tensions and limit destructive exchanges between individuals, to assure that the needs of both the congregation and the pastor are met, and to protect all parties involved from civil litigation.

For the purposes of these guidelines, “pastor” shall refer to any Teaching Elder in an installed or temporary pastoral relationship or any Ruling Elder commissioned to pastoral service. These guidelines shall apply for full- or part-time pastoral arrangements.

Guidelines:1) The Presbytery expects that the parties in disagreement over the pastoral

relationship will first seek a mutually acceptable resolution of the disagreement. Parties to the disagreement are encouraged to seek the counsel and mediation of the Committee on Ministry. Any party to the disagreement may request the counsel of the Committee on Ministry by submitting a request in writing to the General Presbyter, Stated Clerk, or the Chair of the Committee on Ministry. The Committee on Ministry’s Companion assigned to the congregation can help the party or parties prepare such a request.

2) If the parties fail to resolve the disagreement with the counsel and mediation of the Committee on Ministry, the parties shall negotiate a Dissolution Agreement. The Chair of the Committee on Ministry, the General Presbyter, or their designee shall facilitate the negotiation of the Dissolution Agreement. The facilitator shall invite the Session to designate no more than three persons and the Pastor to designate no more than three persons to participate in the negotiation process. All Dissolution Agreements shall be compatible with the provisions of the Book of Order.

3) The Dissolution Agreement shall be a written document which must be approved by

both the congregation and the Committee on Ministry, acting on behalf of Savannah Presbytery. Copies of the written Dissolution Agreement shall be available to members of the congregation at the congregational meeting at which the agreement is to be considered. The dissolution shall not take effect until it is approved by the congregation and the Committee on Ministry.

4) Ordinarily a Dissolution Agreement will include:a. The date on which the dissolution is effective;b. The last date on which the pastor will be expected to perform ministerial

duties;c. Continuation of effective salary, payment of dues to the Board of Pensions,

and other insurance benefits. Ordinarily, compensation shall continue for no more than 6 months from the date the dissolution is effective. The continuation of salary and Board of Pensions dues will vary with each situation, but shall take into consideration the financial resources of the


congregation, the situation of the pastor’s family, and the potential for the congregation and pastor to find new pastoral relationships. All parties shall also remember that church workers, including clergy, are not eligible for state unemployment benefits.

d. Provision of loan repayment or shared equity arrangement (where applicable);

e. The last date on which the pastor may use the manse (where applicable);f. Terms and time limits on the use of the church office or church-owned

equipment as well as physical presence on church premises, except the manse (not to exceed 30 days from the effective date of separation);

g. Provision that if the pastor finds a call or comparable employment prior to the end of the term of the agreement, the church’s financial obligations for the continuation of effective salary and Board of Pensions dues ends as of the beginning date of the call/employment. A part-time call or employment may result in appropriate adjustments in financial payments and Board of Pensions dues which shall be negotiated by the parties and approved by the Committee on Ministry;

5) The Committee on Ministry shall monitor compliance with the Dissolution

Agreement. If either party feels there is a violation of the terms of the agreement, the Committee on Ministry shall investigate and address the violation.

6) If parties to a disagreement are unable to reach a mutually acceptable Dissolution Agreement through the counsel and mediation of Committee on Ministry, and if the Committee finds that the church’s mission under the Word imperatively demands the dissolution of the pastoral relationship, then the Committee on Ministry shall recommend a dissolution agreement to the presbytery with terms of dissolution of its devising. The Committee may recommend that the Presbytery appoint an Administrative Commission if requested or needed.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Terms of Dissolution Agreement Between

& Pastor Congregation

We the undersigned request Savannah Presbytery to dissolve the pastoral relationship between the Congregation and the Pastor on the following terms:

1) Continuation of Compensation:a. Continuation of salary and benefits (exclusive of mileage and professional

expense reimbursement) for months;Salary and benefits are understood as follows: Cash Salary: $ per month Housing Allowance (if applicable): $ per

month Payment in lieu of Social Security (if applicable): $

per month


Employer Contribution to Retirement Savings Plan (if applicable): per month

b. Continuation of full Board of Pensions dues (covering medical insurance, death and disability insurance, and pension benefits) for months

c. Continuation of other insurance benefits for monthsList benefits:

d. Use of the manse (if applicable), including utilities allowance, for months;

2) The last date on which the Pastor will be expected to perform ministerial duties: ;

3) Date after which the Pastor shall not use church office or equipment or be present on the church premises (except the manse if applicable): List equipment which must be returned to the church by that date: __________________________________________________________________

4) It is understood that all salary and benefits for the Pastor will be discontinued should s/he receive another call or other full time employment. If s/he receives a part-time call or employment, the undersigned Pastor, Session Representative, and Committee on Ministry Facilitator are authorized to negotiate prorated benefits.

5) Other Provisions:

We, the undersigned, having negotiated this agreement in good faith, will be diligent in fulfilling it. We agree that all parties will refrain from disparaging the others in any way. If this agreement is violated by either party, the terms of dissolution may be altered by the Committee on Ministry.

Pastor Signature Date

Session Representative Signature Date

COM Facilitator Signature Date

Approved at a duly called meeting of the Congregation held on Date


Moderator of Congregational Meeting Signature

Approved by the Committee on Ministry on Date

Committee on Ministry Chair Signature


2. The Committee on Ministry recommends the Presbytery accept Elder Grace James’ resignation from the Administrative commission for Blackshear Church and elect Elder Jean Vernon to serve in her place.


_____________________________________________________________________

ORDER OF THE DAY:

Welcome and conversation with The Rev. Stewart Fletcher

FOR INFORMATION:

1. The Committee on Ministry has enrolled the Rev. Stuart Fletcher as a member of Savannah Presbytery upon transfer of his membership from the Presbytery of Southern New England. He is serving in a validated ministry as Parish Associate with the Savannah Korean Church.

Bio for Rev. Stuart Fletcher

Rev. Fletcher was ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament on January 28, 1994 at the First Presbyterian Church of Sparta. He received his Bachelor of Science from Houghton College, Houghton, NY, in 1987 and his M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ, in 1991. He is certified by the Evangelical Teacher Training Association as a Christian Educator. He was awarded the Hugh McBurney Award for Competence in English Bible by McCormick Theological Seminary, Chicago, IL, in 1988. He was commissioned to serve in the U.S. Navy and graduated from the Chaplain Candidate Training Program in 1990, served with the 3rd Marine Air Wing, and following an injury sustained during a live fire exercise, the then Lieutenant Junior Grade was medically discharged in 1993. In 1999 the Presbytery of Southern New England recognized his leadership with a Kosovo Refugee Relief Effort with their Walter M. Elwood Mission Award. Rev. Fletcher was also one of five PC (USA) pastors to be part of the first Billy Graham Advanced School of Evangelism, held at Wheaton College, in 1998.Rev. Fletcher served Christ and the people of the First Presbyterian Church of Sparta, Sparta, NJ, as an un-ordained Pastoral Associate 1988-89, and as pulpit supply after graduating from seminary. He was called to be the pastor of the United Presbyterian Church, Milford, CT, where he served from 1994-2003. An unsuccessful surgical procedure caused a worsening of his injuries and necessitated a decrease in his duties. He accepted a call to Savannah to serve as an Interim


Associate Pastor (¾ time) for the Skidaway Island Presbyterian Church. In 2004 he applied for disability which was granted in 2005. Since December, 2004 he has been serving as a Parish Associate at the Savannah Korean Presbyterian Church where he continues to lead worship for the English speaking side of the congregation on a volunteer basis.In April, 1994, he married his wife, Charlotte, who is his better half, his help-mate and his yoke-fellow in ministry. They have an eight year old Golden Retriever named Cree, who is their pride and joy and Stuart’s constant companion.

Rev. Stuart FletcherMy Statement of FaithI place my trust wholly in the living God, who is eternal, all wise, most holy, and the source of love and life. God is transcendent yet imminent, unknowable yet self-revealing, intangible yet experienced by faith. God is so much more than the human mind can comprehend or invent, thus any attempts to define God both limit God and lead us astray. God is more than I can imagine, but must be allowed to be who He* is and not what I would have Him be. It is not for me to define God, but to be defined by Him. God is Creator and I am but a small part of His creation. In faith I must humble myself before Him so that He may cause me to become all that He created me to be. Almighty God has chosen to reveal Himself in three distinct yet same persons: the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God is relational, creating us in love to find wholeness in Him and intending us to experience His love in a way that transforms how we relate to ourselves, other persons, and the world around us. I need that love and welcome God reaching out to me because, like the rest of humanity, I am a sinner. I have fallen short of God’s intention for my life and relationships. On my own I cannot overcome, nor can I rise above this fatal flaw.Though I am a sinner and was lost, I was found by Jesus Christ, who being fully God and fully human, embraced me with God’s redeeming love, is working to redirect and revitalize my soul, and through grace is helping me to become the person that God created me to be. I am in awe, and am eternally grateful for His sacrificial death for my sins, and for the sins of the world, on the cross. I am amazed and forever changed by His bodily resurrection from the dead to bring new, abundant and eternal life to me, and to all who believe. As my Savior, Jesus does more than save me from sin, He saves me to life in the renewed presence of God who I may now know intimately as Abba, Father. My Lord Jesus leads me in the ways of God, not merely by His teachings and example, but by His presence in my life. I now offer my life and my service to Him in faith and with gratitude as I wait for His eventual and certain return in glory. I believe in the Holy Spirit: mystical yet relational, untamed but empowering. The Holy Spirit is more than my mind can grasp or my love can embrace, yet God offers Himself to every believer in the person of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit lives in my soul, explaining God’s Word, exhorting me toward God’s will, encouraging me in faith and life, and equipping me to deepen my devotion and to serve my Lord. I am, as is every believer, more dependant on the Holy Spirit than I am usually conscious of. I believe that God’s inspired Word in Scripture is a precious treasure. In the pages of Scripture I meet God, learn more about myself, and discern how to relate to others and the world around me. I believe that the same Holy Spirit Who inspired the Bible’s co-authors continues to speak through its pages helping us to understand, remember and apply God’s Word. The authoritative Word of God as found in the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are central to the life of every believer and foundational in the life of the church.I believe that Jesus Christ gave us the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper as tangible expressions of His presence and promise. The efficacy of the sacraments are not dependant on our institution or participation, but are uniquely and irrevocably tied to the presence and working of God which we experience through our participation by faith at the font and table. Baptism, a sign and seal of God’s grace, initiates us into Christ’s Body by faith and calls us to ministry. Communion is a tangible reminder of our redemption from sin, Christ’s presence with us, and empowerment to life and ministry. It is the wellspring of our unity, community and commission in Christ.


I believe that faith is a life response to God. The more we know God, being embraced by His grace and becoming transformed in His love, the more we will be motivated to love and serve God. All that I am and all that I have, is a gift of God. In thankfulness I respond as a faithful steward – not out of obligation but gratitude, not because I must but because I may, not merely for duty’s sake but for the opportunity to show my love and thankfulness to God. As God’s child and Christ’s disciple, I am grateful for all that He is doing in my life and for His call to the ministry. I serve now at His pleasure and by His empowerment, seeking to live in sweet communion with Him, and desiring to hear Him say on the day that I stand before Him, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”I believe that we were all created to live in community. The church is to be an example of redeemed community to the world. It is to be a place and a people where love is evident and experienced, where faith is offered and fostered, where human needs are addressed and alleviated. The church is intended to be a place where Christ is present. All that we do should point beyond us to Him who is our Head. The church is, however, as human as it is divine and weeds do grow with the wheat. This fact only underscores our need for and dependence on Christ, for if we are to be what we are intended to be, we must lift Him up for all to see.I believe that coming to faith is a call to ministry in that ministry is a necessary outgrowth of faith and a life response to the experience of God’s grace, love and presence in our lives. While God does call some to positions of professional ministry, ministry is not the domain of professionals but the people of God. Ministry in various and vital ways is both the work of individuals and of the church as a whole. Thus every believer is given gifts and abilities to use in service as a response of faith. The church is impoverished if such involvement is withheld or impeded. The Holy Spirit guides our ministry according to the Word, in response to needs, utilizing the gifts given to Christ’s disciples, and for the glory of God. I am grateful for the presence of God in my life. God’s love enables me to trust that He has my best interests at heart and that His will is the best way. I want to share the good news of the Gospel, not because it is my job, but because I want others to experience for themselves all that I have found in Christ. God offers Himself to us in Christ. In Him is life. Therefore, in Him I live and move and have my being. Thanks be to God for this indescribable gift!

* Because I believe that God is relational, having revealed Himself that way in Scripture and in the historic experience of God’s people, I think that any language or philosophy that denies God’s personal nature prevents us from truly knowing Him in a profoundly transformational way. However, while God has revealed Himself as Father, God is not man, nor is God like any human we have ever known. I use capitalized pronouns for God to signify this truth and to retain the personal, relational character of God.

2. The Committee on Ministry has approved Temporary Supply Covenants between the following:

- Rev. Grady Allison and Jekyll Community Church- Rev. Mary Beene and Faith Church, Rincon- Rev. Ainars Berzinch and Blackshear Church- Rev. Kathi Parchem and First Church, Hinesville

3. In order to build stronger relationships with our congregations, the Committee on Ministry has committed to visit with each Session in our Presbytery each year. Each congregation has been assigned a member of the COM to serve as its “companion.” The companion will contact the Moderator or Clerk of Session to request some time (normally about 20-30 minutes) at a regular Session meeting. The purpose of the conversation will simply be to learn more about the strengths, the sources of excitement, and the needs of each congregation. The information will be shared with


the whole COM, which can help the congregations celebrate their gifts and address their needs as requested.

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REPORT OF THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING TEAMReverend Mary Beene, Chair

RECOMMENDATION:

1. The Team recommends that Celebration of the Lord’s Supper in accordance with appropriate Directory of Worship requirements be approved for Education Training Team events in 2012, as determined by the organizers of the particular event.


INFORMATION:

1. The Education & Training Team has proposed and the Presbytery Council concurred that School of the Laity will take a “Year of Jubilee” in 2012 and will not hold classes. There are a number of staffing and financial issues that need to be resolved and volunteers working on the program do not have time to both run the three annual events and do the necessary planning and “transformation” of the program to meet the new Presbytery financial and staffing realities. The hope is that in 2012, people interested in helping re-vision the program will be able to put together a proposal to restart classes in 2013.

2. Feel the hot breezes? Summer planning is already in full swing for youth events:

Summer Camp will be the week of June 18-23. Trey Haddon will again serve as coordinator. If you are interested in volunteering, please call the Presbytery Office, leave your contact information and he can get back in touch with you.

Statesboro Presbyterian Church is planning a trip to the Montreat Youth Conference. To find out more, contact Susan Parrish at the church. If you are planning a youth trip this summer and would like to invite other churches’ youth to attend, please send an invitation message to Liz Richardson at the Presbytery Office and she can forward your invitation to church pastors and clerks.The Leadership Development Conference and the Spring Youth Connect begin this evening, and planning for 2013 will happen soon after. If you have any comments or suggestions, please let Mary Beene or Nan Thompson know in writing and we will bring it to the Team at our next meeting.

3. The Presbytery Resource Center is being neglected! We have wonderful books and resources sitting on shelves or in bins and boxes. No one is ordering new curriculum materials since Lou Ellen has left. If any church would like to “Save the Resource Center”


by hosting it in their facilities with their human resources, please let Rev. Mary Beene ([email protected] or 912-856-2806) know of your interest and the Presbytery can determine whether it is possible to continue to offer financial support.

4. All of these events and programs are dependent on you and your church for leadership and financial support. Please contact Mary Beene if you would like more information about how your Presbytery giving supports these programs, as well as how you might be able to set up ways within your church to develop funding for participants in the various programs. Even in these difficult times there are models that are working for churches around the Presbytery!

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REPORT OF MISSON MINISTRY TEAMReverend Rick Douylliez

INFORMATION :

1. The Savannah Presbytery Mission Ministry Team will sponsor the 2nd Annual Mission fair at the Leadership Development Conference February 17-18. All churches are encouraged to bring a display highlighting an area of local, regional or world-wide mission supported by their respective congregation.

2. Plans are underway in District III to provide a week-long opportunity in the summer of 2012 for hands-on mission for youth within the boundaries of the district. Congregations will select a specific mission opportunity in their area, host the group overnight, provide a meal, and additional support to accomplish the mission task.

3. The Mission Ministry Team is seeking a congregation to sponsor a presbytery-wide mission trip in the fall of 2012. In 2011, the following churches partnered together: Allenhurst, Jesup, Wilmington Island, and Saint Marys. The group worked with the Episcopal diocese of Alabama and Habitat for Humanity in early September rebuilding two homes in the devastated area following the severe tornado that ravaged through Tuscaloosa Alabama on April 27, 2011.

4. We will soon welcome the following new members that have been recommended to the Nominating committee and who have expressed a desire to join our Team:

Rev. Andy Chambers – FredericaRev. Trip McKinnon – WaycrossBurke Basquin – StatesboroAnn Henderson - Statesboro

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REPORT OF THE EVANGELISM AND TRANSFORMATION TEAMReverend Greg Gillispie

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That the Presbytery use its small group break-out time at this meeting to discuss issues of vitality, growth and outreach.

RATIONALE: This theme aligns with the upcoming emphasis of the Leadership Development Conference, and addresses the requests we’ve heard through last year’s conversations and surveys of our pastors and churches. The goal of these listening sessions

is to share success stories and hear about local needs. This will help us to identify how we can be encouragers for local congregations in their growth and evangelism efforts.


INFORMATION:

1. The Team has begun scheduling consultations with interested congregations and clusters of congregations who are ready to explore ways to strengthen their local mission and ministries. Anyone who would like to have a conversation about these matters – either in a local setting or presbytery-wide – is asked to contact Don Dilley, Ed Ayers, Greg Gillispie, Kevin Hicks or Russell Gladding.

2. The Team commends to local congregational leaders some insightful resources which might be of interest in your setting. Various resources can be a good match for particular situations. If we can be helpful in your exploration, please let us know. If you have other resources you’d like to recommend to our churches, please share those details.

Denominational Resources

• “Starting New Initiatives” is a process of prayer, discernment, conversation and reflection for congregations to decide how they can best minister in their particular contexts. Download this in a PDF format (or order a hard copy) at www.pcusa.org/resource/starting-new-initiatives/• www.PresbyGrow.net, an online community seeking to foster healthy, mission-focused churches in the PCUSA.• PCUSA’s Church Transformation website:http://gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/church-growth/church-transformation/• “Get Walking: Church Transformation Conference” July 30 – August 2, at St. Pete Beach, Florida. http://www.pcusa.org/events/20359/get-walking-church-transformation-conference/

Other Resources


http://www.pcusa.org/events/20359/get-walking-church-transformation-conference/

http://www.pcusa.org/events/20359/get-walking-church-transformation-conference/

• “The 1 Thing”, a small book by Thom and Joani Schultz. A good one or two meeting book discussion will open up awareness of growth and stability issues. “Holy Conversations”, a book, website and process from the Alban Institute to guide a congregation to discern its unique identity, calling, and surrounding outreach opportunities. http://www.holyconversations.org/• “Spiritual Strategic Journey”, a months-long process for congregational leaders to evaluate a church’s strengths, needs, life stage, and energy level. This self-discovery will help you to know when to make moves forward, and when to foster internal support. Depending on your evaluation of your own context, it will guide you on whether to emphasize Vision, Relationships, Programs, or Processes and Resources. http://www.congregationalresources.org/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/SpiritualStrategicJourney.pdf

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REPORT OF THE 2011NOMINATING COMMITTEE

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That the following be elected to serve as indicated.

Moderator Elect of Savannah Presbytery – The Reverend Kathi Parchem

I. Church and Polity • Committee on Ministry Nominations: Class of 2014

Eric Beene, I (2) Christine McGoogan, III (2) Lois Stroman, II (1) John Wall, I (1) Leslie McCracken III (1) Class of 2013 Alan Baroody I (1)• Committee on Preparation for Ministry Nominations: Class of 2014 Craig Pope I (1) Dan Lewis II (1) Chris Benatti II (1) “Ro” Kinson III (1)

II. Education and Training Team Nomination: Class of 2012 Will Shelburne, I (1) Class of 2013: Mary Smith III (1)


http://www.congregationalresources.org/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/SpiritualStrategicJourney.pdf

http://www.congregationalresources.org/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/sites/congregationalresources.org/files/SpiritualStrategicJourney.pdf

Class of 2014: Nat Scott III (2) Nan Thompson, II (1) Doug Black, III (1)

III. Evangelism and Transformation TeamNominations: Class of 2012Crawford Hammond I (1)

Class of 2013

Bobbie Scott II (1)Choongyun Yu, I (1)

Nominations: Class of 2014 Don Dilley I (1)Ed Ayers II (1)Kevin Hicks II (1)Allison Schuerneman I (2)

IV Mission Team

Nominations: Class of 2014

Joan Ashley III (2) Will Shelburne I (2) Greg Loskoski I (2) Andy Chambers III (1) Trip McKinnon III (1)

Burt Basquin Ann Henderson

Other Committees:

Swainsboro Apartments


Chuck Clark II (1)Kashey Odum III (1)Ron Polmanteer III (1)Benjamin Holmes III (1)

M K PentecostNominations: Class of 2014

Gwen McKee I (1)Joe Anderson II (1)


Bob Killian III (2) David Sapp II (2)

Committee on Representation


Curtes Roberts II (1) Jamie Ward II (1) Choongyun Yu I (2)

Permanent Judicial Commission


Sonny Jones I (1), Orion Douglass, III (2), Jim Baker I (1)

Presbytery Council – Member at Large


Karl Branch (1)


Kevin Hicks (2)


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REPORT OF M K PENTECOST COMMITTEEReverend Mary Beene, Coordinator

INFORMATION:

M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund ReportFebruary 17, 2012

1. Some of you may not know what the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund is. In the 1990s, Mr. M.K. Pentecost left a large charitable trust to the Savannah Presbytery, established for “the presbytery’s ministry of environmental justice and ecological stewardship of natural resources including marine and wild life. The funds are to be used


for promoting the support of conservation efforts, education, and studies in key environmental issues of endangered ecosystems and ecological projects which are approved by the presbytery.” The M. K. Pentecost Ecology Fund was set up as a committee, elected by Presbytery, to administer this grant-making program. Most grants go to regional nonprofit organizations working on coastal and ecological efforts in the southern coastal region, the geographic area specified in Mr. Pentecost’s will. Through the “Go Green” program, some grants are also given to churches in the Presbytery working on ecological projects that fit the requirements of the trust. At our recent committee meeting, $5,000 of the grant money was set aside for an emergency fund “for the purpose of providing relief in the case of an ecological crisis or disaster.” Funds for the grants and

programs of the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund come directly from the investment income of M.K. Pentecost’s trust, and are managed by the Presbyterian Foundation. No Savannah Presbytery operating funds are used for the program, nor can the M.K. Pentecost funds be used by the Presbytery outside the requirements of the donor’s stated intentions. This has been a wonderful program in our Presbytery and there are probably people in your community that would like to know that the Presbyterian Church supports conservation of God’s creation. Please contact the Fund’s Coordinator, Mary Beene ([email protected]) for more information or if you have interest in or ideas for getting the word out in your community about this great work.

2. The M.K. Pentecost Fund will be accepting new “Go Green” grants from churches for work on environmental and ecological projects. These $400 grants are described in greater detail in the materials included in the Presbytery packet. Applications are due: April 1, 2012. For additional information, see our Savannah Presbytery website or contact Mary Beene.

3. Alan Baroody will be the chair of the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee in 2012. On our last conference call, members of the committee voted to make Elsie Sederholm, long-time committee member and chair an “honorary member emeritae” of the committee. We want to thank her for her many years of service to the Committee and also thank her for her continuing work with us in this role.

4. On our last call, the committee also tasked the fund coordinator, Mary Beene, with a priority goal of doing more outreach to our Savannah Presbytery churches, working to connect MKP grantees with the work of our churches and vice versa. If your church has a special interest in ecology and environmental issues, please let Mary know.

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REPORT OF THE PERMANENT JUDICIAL COMMISSIONRuling Elder Kerry Klumpe

RECOMMENDATION:

Altama Presbyterian Church of the Savannah Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has submitted to the Feb. 17, 2012, stated meeting of the Presbytery for its consideration


and action an overture addressing Amendment 10-A to the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), concerning standards for ordination.

The submitted overture sets forth a rationale for adoption and, within its four corners, standards for ordination that Altama Presbyterian Church intends to follow. Because the future application of these or any prospective standards could give rise to a judicable case that would come before the Permanent Judicial Commission of the Savannah Presbytery as a matter of first impression, the submitted overture is hereby transmitted to the stated meeting of the Presbytery without action by the Permanent Judicial Commission.

The Overture was not approved.



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A REPORT OF THE INTERIM ADMINSTRATIVE TASK FORCEReverend Rick Douylliez, Chair

INFORMATION

The Savannah Presbytery Interim Administrative Task Force has completed two primary objectives.

1. The first (short term) objective was to identify and secure presbytery staff leadership following the resignation of the General Presbyter in 2011.

2. The second (long term) objective was to begin a process by which the presbytery could envision a new administrative structure. The first phase of this process resulted in a presbytery-wide survey conducted by Holy Cow Consulting. The second phase of this objective will involve a strategic plan based on the interpretation of the survey and subsequent feedback from various focus groups. The first opportunity for small groups to participate in this process happened at the October 25, 2011 stated meeting of presbytery. Summaries are currently being prepared by each small group facilitator.

The Task Force is expected to make a final report with recommendations at the October 2012 meeting of presbytery.

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REPORT ON PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

Janet Ward, Moderator

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ORDER OF THE DAY:

Report of the Administrative Commission at Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church

Rev. Andy Meeker

RECOMMENDATION:

1. That Savannah Presbytery act to dissolve Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church, effective February 17, 2012.



2. That if the above action is approved, that the formation of a second Administrative Commission also be approved (appointed by the Presbytery Moderator and Stated Clerk according to presbytery’s polity) to aid in the process of dissolution. This Administrative Commission shall be comprised of members of COM, Savannah Presbytery Trustees and others, and shall have the authority to:

a. Assist the pastor and session to wind up any and all affairs of the church in a timely manner.

b. Take possession of all real and personal property, financial records, inventories of equipment and all other assets and arrange for transfer of title to Savannah Presbytery of all accounts and real property known to be in the possession of Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church based on G-4.0203 and G-4.0205 of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

c. Receive all Session Records.d. Grant letters of dismissal to members whose names are on the membership roll of

the church for a period of one year from the time of dissolution.


Rationale:

In March of 2010, Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church was chartered as a member church of Savannah Presbytery and the PC(USA). This chartering took place with the understanding that the conflict, violence and divisiveness that had plagued the previous Korean Presbyterian congregation in Hinesville, Mokchun Korean Presbyterian Church, were all things of the past.

In August of 2011, Savannah Presbytery was made aware of significant conflict between the pastor and the elders of the session of Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church. Numerous attempts were made to understand and mediate the conflict using an ad hoc group of presbyters and translators. Little headway was made.

At the heart of the conflict is a struggle for power and control within the church which has led to numerous conflicts, accusations and reprisals. This conflict has resulted in a complete breakdown of the HKPC session and disruptions to the worship, ministry and spiritual life of the church.

In September, after reports of escalating conflict, altercations and threats of violence (including occasions in which the police were called in), Acting General Presbyter Russell Gladding called an emergency meeting of the Committee on Ministry and the Presbytery Council to approve the appointment of an Administrative Commission with the power of Original Jurisdiction. Both bodies unanimously approved this action. Members of the Commission were Rev. Andy Meeker, Chair, Rev. Alan Baroody, Rev. Ed Ayers, Elder Joe McGoogan (First Brunswick) and Elder Alex Sifford (St. Simons). Soon after, Rev. Ayers was replaced by Rev. Yoon Nam because of scheduling conflicts.


Continued attempts to mediate the situation were not successful. The AC acted to place Pastor Yu on a paid sabbatical leave for approximately two months to try to make room for listening and discernment. The elders were asked to act in keeping with their ordination vow of “furthering the peace, unity and purity of the church.” Threats of disruption to worship caused the AC to extend Pastor Yu’s sabbatical leave.

Listening sessions were conducted in early December to allow any and all members of the congregation to share their views and opinions with the AC. The results of these listening sessions indicated that the conflict between the pastor and the elders ran deep and had spilled over into the congregation. Rumors and innuendoes are rampant in the church and greater Hinesville community. Almost everyone who shared their views has chosen sides in the conflict, and there didn’t seem to be much hope for reconciliation.

With the deep-seeded antagonism and the history of conflict in this congregation, it is with deep sadness and regret that the AC recommends to the presbytery that this church be dissolved. Countless hours have been spent in trying to understand and remedy the situation. The history of conflict and violence in this church make successful remediation unlikely. We hope and pray that dissolving the church will provide an opportunity for a fresh start to all involved.

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS OF THANKSReverend Kevin Hicks

Where as:

By the grace of God we were blessed to gather for the 603rd meeting of Savannah Presbytery.

We were once again provided with wonderful facilities by Epworth by the Sea.

The Rev. Ed Ayers opened with piano, guitar, song, and prayer to set the tone for our meeting as well as “saving the forest by using the screen.”

We celebrate Rev. Andy Meeker’s service as Presbytery Moderator and continue to pray for him as he enters what he called his “third and final” year of serving in the moderator cycle. And, we note, that he looks good in a gold chain!

Elder Paul Scott, running unopposed, successfully won the nomination and was elected moderator for the 2012 year bringing his steady and calm voice into our meetings. And, we hope, that he will no longer be tempted to supplement his income at the local Dairy Queen.


Rev. Kathi Parchem was elected as moderator-elect, thus starting the first year of her three year cycle. She also ran unopposed.

Russell “slash” Gladding was elected to continue as Transitional General Presbyter “slash” Stated Clerk “slash” Treasurer. We are pleased that Russell will continue in this job “slash” calling.

We are thankful for the diligence of the other half of the Presbytery Staff, Liz Richardson, always a welcome presence in our meetings.

We were blessed to welcome the Rev. Stuart Fletcher to Savannah Presbytery from the Presbytery of Southern New England.

We were once again entertained and informed by the energetic report from Janet Ward on the Presbyterian Women.

The Rev. Ricky Porter presented us with a budget for 2012 that was accepted by the Presbytery and passed. The hard work of the Finance Committee during this tough economic period is appreciated.

Love was expressed for the School of the Laity and future plans for it will be made.

We will keep Savannah Korean Presbyterian Church in our prayers and wish them well in their new relationship with the Atlanta Korean American Presbytery.

With great sadness we hold the people of Hinesville Korean Presbyterian Church in our prayers as we took the tough step of dissolving the congregation.

The Reverends Beene do a wonderful job reporting on many and various topics.

The Rev. Rick Douylliez is noted as a great recruiter, the Rev. Dan Lewis still appreciates a call ahead of time.

We give thanks:

To the wonderful grace of God working through the staff, ministers, and elders of this Presbytery.

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NECROLOGY OF RULING ELDERS


The following is a list of Ruling Elders who passed away between All Saints’ Day 2010 and All Saints’ Day 2011 who were not noted at the October 2011 Stated Meeting:

First Presbyterian Church Savannah

Howard Ewell CheneyDavid Rice Elmore, Sr.Patricia Harcourt Knight

Saint Simons Presbyterian Church

Richard HellerJack Kite

Skidaway Island Presbyterian Church

William Foster, Jr.

Vidalia Presbyterian Church

Dr. A. J. Morris

Washington Street Presbytery Church

Edward CopennyGeraldine Lilly

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BENEDICTION AND ADJOURNMENT

The next Presbytery Meeting will be Tuesday, May 22, 2012 at Allenhurst Presbyterian Church, Allenhurst, GA


Documents

SAVANNAH PRESBYTERYsavannahpresbytery-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/.../2012/04/… · Web viewI have over the past months elected to use the word transformation instead of ... presence