October 2006 - Presbytery of Chicago

Our Common Ministry
Presbytery of Chicago
www.chicagopresbytery.org
October 2006 • Volume 22 Number 4
Passionate Presbyterians
Emotions ran high at the 217th General Assembly of the
Presbyterian Church (USA) in Birmingham in June. Strongly
held convictions at opposite ends of a debate made for some
intense moments. Ultimately, commissioners joined hands in
prayer and sang Kum ba Yah as they sought to bridge the gaps
that divided them. Peacemaking and reconciliation in local
and global relationships were the challenges of the Assembly.
Commissioners hold hands and pray
following controversial vote
Peacemaking and reconciliation in local and global
relationships were the challenges of the Assembly
At issue were two key matters of discernment. One concerned
the situation in the Middle East and the General Assembly’s position relative to it. The other centered on the issue of inclusiveness
in the church’s leadership as expressed in G-6.0106b of the
denomination’s Constitution (“limiting ordination to those who
practice fidelity in marriage or chastity in singleness”).
The previous (216th) General Assembly adopted a resolution
condemning the violence in the Middle East, the occupation
of the West Bank and the construction of the separation barrier. It strongly urged the creation of a viable Palestinian state
alongside an equally viable Israeli state. The part of the resolution that generated the controversy was the instruction to
the Mission Responsibility through Investment Committee
(MRTI) to “begin a process of phased selective divestment in
multinational corporations operating in Israel.” Much of the
Jewish community, and some Presbyterians, took exception to
this action, feeling that Israel was unfairly targeted as the
The Rev. Joan Gray, Moderator of the
217th General Assembly
“bad guy” in the Middle East and that PC(USA) was advocating
the economic destruction of the State of Israel.
An overture, submitted by the Presbytery of Chicago after 18
months of dialogue with the interfaith community, put the
emphasis on “reinvestment in peaceful pursuits in both Israel
and Palestine,” while, as a last resort, leaving the door open to
recommending divestment. This overture was very helpful to
the Peacemaking and International Issues Committee of the
Assembly in discerning the movement of God’s Spirit and in
informing the recommendation which passed in the Assembly
by a strong vote of 483-28. The adopted resolution stressed
that the church’s financial investments support peacemaking,
not violence.
Continued on page 2
Table of Contents
Presbyter’s Pen
Cuba
Advance Justice
Develop Congregations
2
3
4,5,10
6-7
Chicago
Presbyterians
in Columbia,
pg. 5
Empower Ministry
Presbyterian Women
Resources
Páginas en Español
Saugatuck
Coming Events
8-9
11
12
13-15
16
16
Saugatuck, pg. 16
Presbyter’s Pen
Pursuing dialogue and diplomacy
By Robert C. Reynolds, Executive Presbyter
I am greatly saddened by last summer’s war in
the Middle East. My heartfelt prayers go out to
the people of Israel, Lebanon, and Palestine
who now face painful results of more violence,
suffering, and death. I am praying for people
locally, as well, our friends and neighbors who
personally identify with particular Middle East
populations and whose fear and trepidation rise
with accelerated conflict.
The Presbyterian Church (USA) is peace loving
and promotes reconciliation throughout the world. As a
Presbyterian pastor and as an Executive Presbyter, I have
always been committed to these purposes, both locally and
globally. I invite Chicago area Presbyterians to pray with
other people of faith for the day when dialogue and diplomacy are painstakingly pursued to end bloodshed and restore
peace and justice.
These events in the Middle East are tragic and deeply distressing. Still let us hope that the June action by our
Church’s 217th General Assembly calling for “a new season of
mutual understanding and dialogue” is achievable.
Especially in these very troubled times, let us work with partners of good will and all faiths to strive for this “new season.”
Robert C. Reynolds
Passionate Presbyterians,
Continued from page 1
The other key matter at issue was addressed in two General
Assembly committees. Church Orders Committee considered
overtures requesting the deletion of G 6.0106b from the
Constitution. This overture was rejected in committee, deferring to the recommendation by the committee considering
the report of the Theological Task Force on Peace, Unity and
Purity (known as the PUP report) which, while not altering the
constitution’s restrictions on ordination, encouraged that
more responsibility be exercised by Sessions and Presbyteries
in examining candidates for ordination. This recommendation in the PUP report (one of seven contained in the total
report) gives ordaining bodies greater leeway and is based on
the Constitution’s Authoritative Interpretation regarding
freedom of conscience. The entire PUP report was adopted by
the Assembly. The report calls on the church to prayerfully
consider how to implement these recommendations.
Among many other actions of the 217th General Assembly,
the other item that made headlines was the paper affirming
“Father, Son and Holy Spirit” as the church’s primary language for the Trinity, while lifting up other Biblical images
of the Trinity for study and use in worship. This paper was
submitted for discussion because it is perceived by some
that the Church is moving towards Unitarianism.
In summing up the General Assembly in a report, one Chicago
commissioner said it was evident that persons with strongly
held convictions at either end of the spectrum of debate were
firm in their beliefs, and that there was a large majority in the
middle that was not represented in either position.
It was also evident that the PC(USA) is involved in important
mission and governance activities that require support from
the whole church. As Presbyterians, we are encouraged to
bring our passions as well as our reason to our Church’s
ministries.
Another highlight was the election of the Rev. Joan Gray as
Moderator of the 217th General Assembly. She will serve a
two-year term.
A more detailed report will be made at the October
Presbytery Assembly.
OUR COMMON MINISTRY is published five times a year by the Presbytery Council’s Communications Work
Group of the Presbytery of Chicago, the regional governing body of the Presbyterian Church in Lake, Cook, and DuPage Counties.
Robert C. Reynolds
Geraldine Parker
Simeon D. Carson
Magdalena Garcia
Executive Editor
Managing Editor
Graphic Design
Spanish Translator
Contributors
Mike Conklin, Hope Daniels, Gale Morgan-Williams,
Laura Taylor de Palomino and Joseph Pixler
OUR COMMON MINISTRY
100 S. Morgan
Chicago, IL 60607
Ph. (312) 243-8300
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E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.chicagopresbytery.org
Next Issue: Dec., 2006 Deadline for copy: Oct. 23, 2006
OCM invites comments, questions and stories from our readers. Please direct your letters to the Editor, Ms. Gerry Parker
at [email protected]. Thank you. We look forward to hearing from you.
2
Partners
Cuban youth inspire Chicago youth
In July 2006, about 50 youth and adults gathered in Cuba for
an International Youth Leadership Conference. The idea for
the conference came from the Presbytery of Havana, which
presented the idea to its partner presbyteries, Chicago and
Long Island. This event was as a unique opportunity for
cubano and norteamericano youth to share their faith perspectives. It took place July 10-17 at the Luyano Presbyterian
Church in Havana.
Seven young women from three
Chicago Presbytery churches
attended: Brooke Helms and
Kimberlee Frost from Clarendon
Hills, Cassie Garcia from Glen
Ellyn Southminster, and Allie
Ergang, Anne Paulsen, Anna
Groebe and Kelsey Shawgo from
Libertyville. Carmen Lago from
Libertyville and the Rev. Muriel
Miller from Evergreen Park
served as adult leaders. The youth
were chosen from churches here
that have sister churches in Cuba.
The weekend was spent learning first-hand what daily life is
like in Cuba. The U.S. youth visited their sister churches and
members’ homes, participated in worship and Bible studies
and toured local sights
When they returned home, the Chicago Presbytery youth
commented on how their own spirituality had grown. They
“caught” the Cubans’
contagious faith. One girl
said she was almost jealous of the faith of the
Cuban young people and
their enthusiasm for
church life.
In other Cuba
Partnership Notes: A
group of young adults
from Winnetka traveled
to First Presbyterian
Church of Havana for a
work trip July 31-Aug.
The International Youth Leadership Conference in Havana, Cuba
brought together youth from the two countries
9.The next travelers from
Chicago Presbytery will
These youth and their Cuban counterparts got to know one
include a group from Oak Park Fair Oaks and Glen Ellyn
another – talking, laughing, singing, dancing, praying, worSouthminster, Nov. 7-15. … The Cuba Partnership Mission
shiping, building bridges of understanding and friendship, and Team and Chicago Ravenswood hosted Eyda María Nuñez
exploring their faith. The program was planned by the Cubans. Cabezas of Nueva Paz (Cuba) Presbyterian Church June 26July 5. She also attended the Presbyterian Women’s
Each day began with devotions planned and led by the young
Churchwide Gathering in Louisville. See article on page 11.
people. The first morning, a Cuban girl reminded the group
that “we have a responsibility to not settle for anything less
Article submitted by Rev. Muriel Miller, Moderator, Cuba
than 100 percent commitment to Jesus Christ.”
Partnership Mission Team
The second morning, the U.S. youth used the theme of the
“woman at the well” to develop the idea that, after they
encountered Jesus, they needed to share the good news not
only about the conference but also about Jesus Christ.
For one biblical reflection, the kids explored their roles in the
church, using the Judges 6:1-26 story of Gideon who as a youth
heard the voice of God. Conversations centered on how much
they were a part of the church, what the church expected of
them and what they could do to play a vital role in the church.
Both Cuban and U.S. youth said they wanted to be more
important parts of the church but were not always given the
opportunity.
The Cubans seemed to be more involved in the total life of
their church. One Cuban girl suggested that might be
because her church is younger and the youth are stepping up
to be active participants. She encouraged the U.S. youth to
actively create opportunities instead of waiting for adults to
do that for them. Another Cuban youth encouraged all to see
themselves as leaders and evangelists.
Movie time!
Chicago Presbytery’s mission interpretation video debuts at the
October Presbytery Assembly
meeting. You won’t want to miss this exciting production,
sponsored by the Stewardship and Financial Development Work
Group. It features three activities of the Presbytery, highlighting an Advance Justice mission trip, an Empower Ministry
Youth activity and a Develop Congregations joint project. The
video (in DVD format) illustrates how “Together we can do
more.”
Offerings taken at Presbytery Assembly meetings also demonstrate how much we can do when we combine our efforts.
• February: One Great Hour of Sharing $1,098
• April: Pentecost Offering - $1,299
• June: Shared Mission Support - $1142
• Cents-ability Hunger Offering (three meetings) - $400.
Even pennies add up!
Thank you for your faithful stewardship.
Together we can do more.
3
“Advance Justice” – Mission Stories
Katrina relief efforts draw
ecumenical support
It is difficult to participate in Hurricane Katrina relief work
in the Gulf Coast states and not bump into a Presbyterian
who’s come to help. The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance
Muslim groups, have also been among the volunteers. “We
had about 150 students from Hillel (Jewish campus organization) here on a relief trip staying in one of our Louisiana
(PDA) villages,” said Noel. Last June, the PDA hosted KARING—-Katrina Relief in Northbrook and Glenview—-an
effort in which congregations from synagogues and churches
combined in those North Shore suburbs to send volunteers
and work in Waveland, MS. “This is a true ecumenical
effort,” she said.
For more information or to participate in a Presbyterysponsored work trip, contact the Rev. Deborah Roberts,
(630) 355-8181, Ext. 106; [email protected] . She is the
Coordinator of the Presbytery’s Disaster Assistance &
Response Team (DART). There are planned trips every month.
Worker’s rights supported by
SDOP grant
Cross is poignant evidence of people affected by Katrina disaster
program (PDA), on the scene within hours after the 2005
storm hit, houses up to 500 volunteers in five Louisiana and
Mississippi sites. It is a major player in the cleanup.
Furthermore, Presbyterian response to Katrina extends outside the PDA. Last June, for instance, Lake Forest First,
which has done youth work trips annually for over 30 years,
took 100 high school students and 25 adult advisers to Ocean
Springs as part of its own Katrina Task Force effort, established with the Mississippi community’s First Presbyterian
Church.
For seven days, the Lake Forest group, having arranged its
own housing in a local middle school, repaired homes,
removed debris, and built an addition to the Ocean Springs
Church. The Lake Forest task force efforts, chaired by church
member Beverly Raudabaugh, included another work trip by
college students at Christmastime and the purchase of a new
van for the Mississippi church.
Though the hot, steamy summer months saw a slight dip in
participation, Penny Noel, a PDA coordinator, said there has
not been a single day in which Presbyterian volunteers from
outside the area, many from the Chicago Presbytery, have not
been doing relief work in the Gulf Coast.
The pace was expected to pick up in September, when weather cooled and students returned to school to organize trips.
“Keeping up the momentum is important because this is
going to be a 5- to 7-year project,” she said. “Volunteers
who’ve come here understand how monumental the task is.”
Not everyone using the PDA organizational efforts is
Presbyterian, however.
4
A variety of Christian denominations, plus Jewish and
Comite Mujer is Spanish for Women’s Committee. Comite
Mujer of the San Lucas Workers Center located at 2914 West
North Avenue in Chicago will receive $5,000 in grant money
from the Presbytery of Chicago Committee on the SelfDevelopment of People (SDOP). The funds come from the
One Great Hour of Sharing Offering and are distributed to
projects according to strict criteria.
Comite Mujer is an emerging group of 15 women day laborers
meeting at the San Lucas Workers Center in space donated by
San Lucas United Church of Christ at Francisco and North
Avenues in Chicago.
Edelma Guzman attended the Pre-Presbytery event on June 13
at Deerfield First and spoke eloquently about the treatment
she receives as a female day-laborer. Mrs. Guzman, who is in
her seventh month of pregnancy with her second child was
accompanied by her four-year-old daughter. Ari Glazer,
Director of the San Lucas Workers Center, translated Mrs.
Guzman’s comments:
“Many temporary workers don’t know their rights. We usually get up at 4 a.m. and get sent out from agencies to different kinds of workplaces. We have to drop our children off at
babysitters very early. We work in factories and do heavy
work you might think a man would do. A problem in the factories is no safety equipment like gloves, eye protection or
back belts. We need to work to get ahead in life so we are
forced to work for these agencies. We receive poor treatment. They often lock the bathroom. Where I work the vans
drop us off from 5 a.m. and they don’t open the bathrooms
until 7:30. Another problem with day laborer agencies is the
private vans we go in charge us illegally for the ride. When
we tell them about the problem, the agency says they have
plenty of others workers who want to work.”
Mrs. Guzman stated that she earns about $250 per week and
her childcare costs average $120 per week. The necessity of
dropping her daughter off early and picking her up late keeps
her childcare costs high.
“Advance Justice” – Mission Stories
Ms Glazer explained that there are two types of day laborers:
the ones who stand on the street corner or wait at places like
the Home Depot parking lot to be hired for a construction
job and ones who work through a day labor agency. There are
more than 300,000 day laborers in Illinois. There are
approximately 150 registered day labor agencies with at least
600 branch offices in Illinois and many more that operate
illegally without registering with the State of Illinois.
safely and will be living, working and studying in the Tres
Rios Presbytery in Midland, TX. The following in an excerpt
from a letter written by the Rev. Jose Luis Casal, General
Missioner of Tres Rios Presbytery and former organizing
pastor of Canto de Esperanza Presbyterian Church in
Berwyn.
Comite Mujer’s goals are to learn about their labor, civil,
human, and immigrant rights, to develop their own leadership
skills, recruit additional members to spread the knowledge
and skills, and to put their skills into action. The women will
do this by working for positive immigration legislation reform
on a national level and negotiating for better conditions here
in Chicago through enforcement of the State of Illinois Day
Labor Services Act which took effect January 1, 2006.
Finally Mejia’s family is here in United States, safe and
happy!! Yesterday we had a long day starting at 6:00 AM
when we picked up Milton and his family at his home. The
good bye moments are always difficult and this was not different from others but I had the opportunity to say to
Milton’s mother, their friends, relatives and members of
their churches that we are going to take care of them. One
member of Costa Norte Presbytery told me ‘they are our
treasure, please take care of them’ and I answered ‘thank you
for sharing your treasure with us. We will help them to multiply their talents so when they return to you, you will receive
double the energy, love and care.’…They will receive personalized English classes and some others will help them in
the paperwork for the Drivers License, Work Authorization,
etc….In Tres Rios Presbytery the reactions of the
Council and churches have been very positive; everybody is
open to help.”
The Day Labor Services Act requires day labor agencies be
licensed and that employers contract only with registered
agencies. It prohibits day labor agencies from charging transportation from the day labor office to the worksite and back. It
requires more thorough record-keeping by agencies and
established the rights of action for day laborers against lawbreaking agencies and employers without fear of retaliation.
Both the Chicago and the National Presbyterian Committees
on the Self-Development of People assisted indirectly with
the passage of this legislation by providing grants to the San
Lucas Workers Center and the Latino Union of Chicago in
prior years.
Submitted by Sarah Jane Moore, member of the Self-Development
of People Committee of the Chicago Presbytery. To learn more
about the work of Comite Mujer and the San Lucas Workers
Center, contact Ari Glazer at (773) 573-5533.
Chicago Presbyterians in Colombia
The Presbytery of Chicago sent a delegation to Colombia in
August to celebrate with the Presbyterian Church of
Colombia on
the occasion
of their 150th
anniversary.
They took with
them letters of
congratulation
and support
from many of
the churches
of the
Gary Cozette, Director of Chicago Religious
Presbytery. The Leadership Network on Latin America, addresses
group of Colombians
delegation will
report to the Presbytery on their experience at a later date.
The Presbyterian Church (USA) has been actively assisting
Colombian pastor, the Rev. Milton Mejia and his family in
their relocation to the United States. The family has arrived
“Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Appalachia draws youth
In July, a thirteen-person team traveled from Orland Park
(and other churches in Region 8) to McGoffin County, TN, to
participate in the Appalachian Service Project (ASP). The
ASP is a Christian housing ministry designed specifically to
involve high school youth in work projects that better the
living conditions for families who could otherwise not afford
to improve or rebuild their homes.
Projects range from repainting or re-siding homes or
digging outhouse facilities, to more complex carpentry,
roofing and plumbing.
Orland Park has sent teams to work with the ASP for several
years. The work is hard and rewarding. “In return for the
services we provide,” says Pastor Scott Estler, “…we gain a
new understanding of our world and learn how we can be
part of the solution to the problems of the underprivileged in
this country.”
For more information, contact Rev. Estler at (708)448-8142 or the
Appalachian Service Project at www.asphome.org.
Kids cook
Ten fifth graders from Deerfield First baked and decorated
cookies for a bake sale which raised $700 for the church’s
Habit for Humanity project. What a great example of how
everyone can contribute to mission.
Continued on page 10
5
“Develop Congregations” – News of our churches
Covenant churches schedule
Black Family Ministry Event
The African American Congregational Transformation
Covenant Churches (AACTC) will have its Black Family
Ministry Event on Friday, November 10Sunday, November 12. The event will focus on
the strength and plight of the Black Family.
Black Family Ministry Event – 2006 will begin on
Friday with a free dinner and a worship service
will follow immediately. There will be a continental breakfast, devotion, forums and workshops on
Saturday, with worship at each participating
church on Sunday.
Black Family Ministry Event – 2006 will have as
its Keynote Preacher Chaplain Torrence E.
The Rev. Al Bridges,
Sparkman, MDiv. Sparkman will provide the
Moderator of AACTC
African American Congregational
churches
Transformation Covenant Churches with
resource people for its forums and workshops on Cardiac
Health Issues.
Elder Jackie Murray
Elder Jackie Murray will serve as the resource person for the forums and workshops on HIV/AIDS’
Issues. She will have other facilitators from
HIV/AIDS Organizations present. The AACTC
Churches decided that health issues will be the
“Focus” of the Black Family Ministry Event-2006.
Research studies have documented that African
American people suffer with a disproportionate
number of health issues pertaining to Cardiac and
HIV/AIDS challenges. As an example, it is highly
publicized that today, as many as seventy percent
(70%) of the new HIV/AIDS cases are among
African American women (many of these women
are child bearing age).
AACTC-Churches
Chatham-Bethlehem
Cornerstone
Crerar Memorial
Hope
Pine Avenue United
Pullman
Seventh
Sixth-Grace
Pastors
- Rev. Marty C. Gool
- Rev. Alvin Bridges
- Rev. John Warner
- Rev. Leslie Sanders
- Rev. Frank Gipson
- Rev. Eddie Knox
- Rev. Neil Myrie
- Rev. Daniel Imo,
Temporary Supply
The Rev. Alvin Bridges, Moderator of AACTC-Churches
Elder Carlene Hyrams, Associate Executive Presbyter for
Justice Ministries, staff to AACTC
6
The dinner, worship service, forums and workshops will be
held at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. The proceeds
from the offering at the worship service on Friday night,
November 10, 2006 will be divided among the AACTCChurches for their Christmas Needy Fund, which provides
food baskets, toys, clothes, school supplies and monetary
aids in extreme emergency cases. All donations should be
made payable to Associated Urban Ministries, designated
“Christmas Needy Fund.”
The Associated Urban Ministries is the catalyst and the
conduit for the AACTC-Churches.
Article submitted by Rev. Carolina Hampton, Coordinator
AACTC-Churches.
VBS Attracts Kids
For five evenings in August, the Presbytery sent a team to
Park Forest Calvary to run a Vacation Bible School on the
theme of “Around the World in 5 Days – A Visit to the USA.”
The program attracted 32 kids, compared with 5 two years
ago. The church also began a new Sunday School program,
meeting once a month for two hours. Hopefully, this will
attract many of the same children.
For more information about Presbytery support for Vacation Bible
School contact Doreen Sterba de Zur at (708) 485-4205.
Lay Leadership Classes at Iglesia
Canto de Esperanza in Berwyn
For almost a year, members of Berwyn Iglesia Canto de
Esperanza have had the unique opportunity of taking classes
from a Presbyterian Seminary professor. The pastor of
Canto de Esperanza, the Rev. Dr. Salatiel Palomino, has been
a seminary professor for most of his years as an ordained
minister. So, continuing classes in the Berwyn church was a
natural decision.
Last fall, from September to December, 2005, the two courses “Fruitful Bible Study” and “Agents of Healing and Pastoral
Care” were offered on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Seven students enrolled in the first course and five students
enrolled in the second course. After a brief break, classes
started again in February, with six students taking the course
“Introduction to the New Testament” and six students taking
the Homiletics class. Three of the students from the
homiletics class have preached at “Canto” on Sundays.
This fall, another round of courses will be offered:
Introduction to the Old Testament and Reformed Theology.
The courses are offered Tuesday and Thursday evenings,
from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. and are open to members of other
churches. The courses are in Spanish. For more information,
contact Rev. Salatiel Palomino at (708) 484-7485.
“Develop Congregations” – News of our churches
What a confirmation!
Fall Festival of Music
On August 13, 2006 Riverside Presbyterian Church witnessed a thirtieth (30th) reunion of a Confirmation Class!
Eight members of the Confirmation Class of 1976 intentionally
returned to Riverside to celebrate and renew their friendship
and their commitment. Paul Bane, Paul Voris, Bob Shurtleff,
Katy Eggleston, Toni Vyborny, Kris Landess, Anne Frick, and
Wendy Butcher spent the weekend recalling old times with
Rev. Herb Eggelston who was their pastor at that time.
Again this year, La Grange First will host the annual Fall
Festival of Music. This year’s Festival will be a celebration of
Mozart as the “King of Classical Music.” The event will be held
on November 11 at the La Grange church and will include the
choirs of several churches and the Salt Creek Sinfonietta. The
Fall Festival of Music is a great way for churches to get together
and perform music they would not be able to do as individual
churches. It also builds relationships in the community.
“This is the first
time I have ever
experienced this
kind of reunion. I
have been in the
church all my life
and nearly thirty
four as a pastor, but
I have just had a
Members of the 1976 confirmation class.
first,” says Interim
Pastor, the Rev. Edwin
Dykstra. “I wished I had been a mouse to hear all the memories they shared Saturday night.” None of them are currently
affiliated with Riverside; in fact one is now living in England.
For more information, contact Alan Wellman, La Grange
First Music Director at (708) 354-0771.
We were blessed as they shared some insights during our
worship service. It was also encouraging to experience their
return to the church that had nurtured them and prepared
them for the variety of life experiences that they are now
enjoying thirty years later. What a confirmation!
Article submitted by the Rev. Edwin Dykstra, Interim Pastor.
Chicago-Milan partnership
explored
Elders on the Session of the Waldensian Presbyterian Church
of Milan, Italy visited Libertyville First March 17-21. This
was the first step toward formalizing a “twin church” relationship. The three visitors, including a past moderator of
the national Waldensian Board, joined in the March 19 worship and were honored with a reception between services.
They also met with the Libertyville First Session. Pastor
Brian Paulson has had a long-time interest in the
Waldensians, and the proposed partnership is promoted as
an opportunity to learn about varying witness to Christ.
Enhanced Web site
The Web site for Chicago First is up and running again with a
number of new features. In addition to links to the church
history and programs, the site includes a new church blog
developed by the Evangelism Committee that allows for the
easy reporting (in words and pictures) of recent and current
events, new initiatives and reminders. The Web address is
www.firstpreschicago.org.
Fall Fitness Fair
The Chicago Lights Fall Fitness Fair will spotlight senior
wellness. Chicago Lights is a program of Chicago Fourth,
encompassing a range of community ministries: tutoring,
social services, health ministries and their senior
community center.
Recognizing that exercise is essential to healthy aging, the
Fitness Fair will offer several class demonstrations and
health lectures. The Fair is scheduled for October 26. One
senior member said, “This exercise class keeps me active...
With the weight training, I can now get myself into an SUV.”
Whether you are trying to reach the top kitchen shelf or
preparing for a trip to Nepal, exercise will get you there. The
Festival will be held in the church’s Center for Older Adults.
Shower of teacups
Members of Elk Grove Presbyterian Church sponsored a
“Showers of Teacups” tea last Spring. Each guest at the tea
donated a china cup and saucer to be sent to “Cups of Grace
Ministry” in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. With each donated
tea cup was a hand written note to the recipient, attached to
the handle with a ribbon.
It was their way of sharing the Grace of God, bringing light
and hope to women living on the Gulf coast who have been
affected by Katrina. Each cup was hand delivered by a “Cups
of Grace” volunteer who would take time to share tea with the
recipient, listen to her story, pray with her and share the
Word and the Love of Christ with her. Twenty nine cups were
donated during the elegant tea, held at the church.
Article submitted by Iris Hohe, Elk Grove Presbyterian Church.
Singing for supper
Chicago Good Shepherd has raised over $16,000 through
their Midway Community Choir concerts over the four years
of this project. Proceeds have gone to Southwest Chicago
PADS, Southwest Women Working Together and the Crop
Walk. The church helped form the choral group which
includes members of the surrounding community. It is
partially supported by a Covenant with Chicago Presbytery.
7
“Empower Ministry” – News of the Presbytery, Work Groups and Mission Teams
Leadership transitions in Presbytery
At its stated Assembly meeting June 13, held at Deerfield
First, the Presbytery welcomed new leadership and
expressed gratitude for past leaders.
The Rev. Barbara Bundick began her duties at Stated Clerk
and the Rev. Virginia Smith (Ginny) came on staff as
Associate Executive Presbyter (AEP) for Ministry. The
Presbytery celebrated the Interim leadership of Loretta
Gratias-Bremer in the AEP position. She will continue to
provide assistance during the transition period. The Rev.
Bill and Lynn Lankton were thanked for their many years as
Director and cook at the Presbyterian Camps at Saugatuck.
The death of William Thompson, long-time key leader in the
Presbyterian Church (USA) and member of La Grange First
was noted.
Mission Priority Leadership Teams
Develop Congregations:
The Presbytery authorized the formation of a new church
development, the Jesus Community Church, and agreed to
provide financial support for it and for the South Asian
Fellowship, which is moving towards becoming a new church
development. The Presbytery also approved the formation of
a joint administrative commission with the Presbytery of
Midwest Hanmi to facilitate the joining of the Chicago
Presbyterian Church of Midwest Hanmi and the Evergreen
Presbyterian Church of Chicago Presbytery.
Advance Justice:
The Presbytery voted to concur
with the Presbytery of San
Francisco’s overture to the 217th
General Assembly entitled,
“Presbyterian Initiative Against
Torture.”
8
Stewardship and Financial Development Work Group presented a pre-Presbytery workshop on “Making Money
Matters Work – Beyond the Basics,” led by Bob Kukla.
Actions of the Committee on Ministry and Preparation for
Ministry are recorded in Transitions on page 12.
***
The August 12 Presbytery Assembly meeting, held at
Northbrook Village Church, was an abbreviated meeting.
Executive Presbyter: Robert Reynolds expressed pastoral
concern for several people, including Cardinal Francis
George, who was scheduled to be the preacher of the day. Sr.
Joan Mc Guire graciously preached in his stead. Reynolds
also requested prayers for the Presbyterian Church of
Colombia which is
celebrating 150
years of ministry,
and for the
Chicago
Presbytery delegation which traveled to Colombia
in support.
Worship leaders meet with Sr. Joan Mc Guire
Stated Clerk:
to prepare the service
Barbara Bundick
stressed the need for all churches to send copies of their
incorporation papers to the Presbytery office. She also urged
church sessions to be diligent about their examination of
newly elected elders and deacons prior to their ordination
and installation.
Report from General Assembly Commissioners: Three of
the Presbytery’s Commissioners to the 217th General
Assembly in Birmingham reported briefly to the Assembly
on their assignments and experiences at the Assembly. See
cover article. The Commissioners will give a more complete
report at the October Presbytery Assembly meeting.
The Committee on the SelfDevelopment of People (SDOP)
reported on eight self-help
programs which awarded grants
from a $30,000 fund coming
Bill and Lynn Lankton
from contributions to the One
Great Hour of Sharing offering. One of the awardees is Comite
Mujer of the San Lucas Workers Center. See article on page 4.
The SDOP grant recipients spoke at a pre-Presbytery meeting.
Report of the Presbytery Council:
Litigation Work Group received approval for the expenditure of an additional $200,000 on legal expenses in the
Douglas Mason case.
Report of the Presbytery Council
The Presbytery adopted the 2006 Operating Budget, totaling
$2,819,633, retroactive to January 1, 2006 and approved 3%
salary increases for Executive Staff, effective July 1, 2006.
Business Affairs Work Group brought a motion to approve
the encumbrance of the property of Chicago Lincoln Park for
up to $1,000,000 on a line of credit or loan for construction
expenses which was approved.
Business Affairs Work Group secured approval for the sale of
Agape House, the financial plan for Knox Naperville renovations and Wheaton Hope roof repairs, and leases for
Broadview Community and Oak Lawn Community.
Staff Personnel Work Group recommended the renewal of
the contract with Rev. David Ezekiel as Associate Executive
for Congregational Development, retroactive to February 1,
2006 and continuing to June 30, 2007. It was approved.
Budget Work Group received approval for the Presbytery’s
portion of the Per Capita apportionment, set at $16.33. The
General Assembly portion will be $5.79, and the Synod’s
portion will be $3.35.
“Empower Ministry” – News of the Presbytery, Work Groups and Mission Teams
Camp Oversight and Development Committee reported on
the accreditation of the camps by the American Camping
Association. In the 3-year review, there are 26 standards to
meet. Our camps scored 99.4%. The Presbytery voted to
accept the partial settlement agreement in a dispute with a
neighbor over a boundary.
sessions of about 20 minutes each. Discussion questions are
provided online and in the brochure. DVD Two, “Six Women
Leading the Way” is composed of six 10-15 minute life stories.
They are moving and inspirational stories, suitable for adult
education groups, use with new members and new officers,
youth groups and congregational events.
Committee on Ministry gained approval of an increase in
the minimum effective salary for clergy to $39,400. No
increase was recommended for pulpit supply or moderator
service. Other actions of the Committee on Ministry and
Preparation for Ministry are listed in Transitions on page 12.
“Women’s Ordination: Past, Present, & Future” is a project
of the Chicago-based Planning Team for the Celebration of
Women in the Presbyterian Church (USA), made possible by
the vision and financial support of the Presbytery of Chicago
through the Advance Justice and Empower Mission
Leadership Priority Leadership Teams and the supportive
presbytery staff.
Tom Sullivan reported progress on the situation in the Congo
on three fronts: peaceful elections have been held, the 217th
General Assembly passed Chicago’s overture urging support
for the Congo, and the United States Senate has passed the
legislation which Presbytery voted to support.
“Women’s Ordination: Past,
Present, & Future,” now on DVD
• How did John Calvin interpret the apostle Paul’s
words about women?
• Who was the first woman elder in your church?
• What does it feel like to be a “First?”
• What are the challenges for women today in the
church?
A new DVD set called, “Women’s Ordination: Past,
Present & Future” is designed to answer the questions raised above and to help people appreciate the
struggles of women that finally led to their ordination, and to recognize the challenges women still
face today.
The DVD is now available. The set is composed of
two hour-long DVDs and is based on interviews
with thirteen outstanding women.
DVD One, “A Flame in Our Hearts: “Called, Ordained,
Visioning,” recounts the long journey toward women’s ordination in the Presbyterian Church. The story is told by Rev.
Dr. Cynthia Campbell, Rev. Dr. Katie Cannon, Rev. Evlyn
Fulton, Rev. Magdalena Garcia, Rev. Peggy Howland, Rev. Dr.
Rhashell Hunter, Rev. Carol Rose Ikeler, Elder Ann Beran
Jones, founder Martha Juillerat, Seminary student Joann Lee,
Elders Mary Jane Patterson and Mary Elva Smith, and Rev.
Dr. Margaret Towner.
DVD Two, “A Fire in Our Bones:” Six Women Leading the Way,”
focuses on six of these women telling their personal ordination stories: Campbell, Cannon, Fulton, Garcia, Beran Jones,
and Patterson.
The DVD set is designed for use in many educational settings.
DVD One, “Called, Ordained, Visioning” is divided into three
It was directed by Eunice Blanchard Poethig, moderator of the
Chicago-based Planning Team for the Celebration of the
Ordination of Women in the Presbyterian Church. Treyva
Estler of TV Trey Productions was the videographer and editor.
To order the DVD set, contact the Presbytery of Chicago at
(312) 243-8300. The cost is $39.95.
Scholarships offered
Scholarships for Continuing Education are given by the
Empower Ministry Mission Priority Leadership Team
(MPLT), through the Presbytery of Chicago annual budget,
which in turn is supported by Shared Mission Giving.
Applications are available on the Presbytery of Chicago
website: www.chicagopresbytery.org. To locate them, click
on “Resources” at the top, then scroll down to the heading
“Ministry Resources.” Clergy, ordained laity and professional
church leaders are all eligible to receive scholarships.
Requests for events formerly considered to be “Professional
Development” are eligible through this program, but mission
activities, including mission trips, are generally not eligible.
Individuals are encouraged to contact the Peacemaking Team
for this type of assistance.
Continuing Education Scholarship Guidelines are also available
online – applicants should review them carefully before filling
out the form. Applications are received throughout the year,
and are considered at the monthly meetings of Empower
Ministry MPLT. Maximum financial assistance is $600.
Contributions from individual participants and/or their congregations (or agencies for specialized clergy) are also expected.
Pastor selected for “3 S’s Program”
Pastor Michael Kirby of Chicago Good Shepherd has been
accepted for the Lilly Foundation’s “3 S’s Program,” which
seeks to foster development of pastors by funding special
projects related to “Service, Study and Sabbath.” In the
program, Kirby will be part of a team of pastors who will look
into the music of worship in the context of the “3 S’s” over
the next three years.
9
“Advance Justice” – Mission Stories
Walking for the world
No vacation for hunger
There is still time to join the 2006 Chicago CROP Walk!
Participants will step off from the Student Center East on the
University of Illinois Chicago Campus on October 15th.
Registration is at 1:00 pm. The Chicago Crop Walk is one of
2000 Crop Walks held each year
in communities throughout the
United States.
Evanston Northminster reminds people that hunger does
not take a vacation. Members collect funds for the Chicago
Presbytery Hunger Fund and for a food pantry run by another
Evanston church. They also have written over 200 letters to
congressional representatives urging support for programs
addressing worldwide poverty, hunger and health care.
Funds raised are divided
between local and global agencies. Twenty-five percent will
go to Chicago agencies combating hunger. The other 75% will
be used to fight global hunger
through Church World Service,
Volunteers serving food to survivors of the
May 2006 Indonesia Earthquake. Church Lutheran World Relief, UNICEF,
World Service provided funds for many public CARE, and other international
aid agencies.
kitchens serving quake-hit communities.
Last year’s Crop Walk raised over $45,000 to combat hunger
in Chicago. The Presbytery Hunger Mission Team received
$1,240 of that amount. The Rev. Michael Winters, Moderator
of the Team says, “The funds we receive from the CROP Walk
give us more money for grants to agencies that apply for assistance. We have been able to give grants to Bread For the
World, Lakeview Pantry, Uptown Community Food Pantry,
Sarah’s Circle and the Just Eating curriculum project.”
The goal for 2006 is 2,000 walkers, raising $100,000.
For information about the Chicago CROP Hunger Walk or
any of the Walks in Illinois call (888) 297-2767. Be a walker,
or support a walker in your community and help heal the
world of poverty and hunger.
Sharing the harvest
“It’s Wednesday at 10 am and the doors of the food pantry at
Oak Lawn Community are about to open. Already, there is a
line of people waiting outside. Over the next few hours, some
100 families will be welcomed and receive food, including
produce from Share the Harvest.” Marge Hossfeld directs a
dedicated team of volunteers who set up and run the pantry
each week. Produce from Julie Grow’s garden provides some
of the vegetables for the project. (With a name like “Grow,”
how could she not be a gardener?) Julie is an elder at Oak
Lawn Community. In a recent month, the church’s pantry
served 149 families, including 497 individuals. This southside church is doing its part to alleviate local hunger. They
say, “Let the growing and the harvest continue!”
Article submitted by Adeline Kramer, Oak Lawn Community Church.
10
Wheaton Hope provides volunteers to distribute food for the
People’s Resource Center in Wheaton. They also wrote letters to
congressional representatives in support of Bread for the World.
Arlington Heights Southminster provides drivers to deliver
Meals on Wheels, and Lake Forest First helps supply and
run a Soup Kitchen in Waukegan.
These are just a few examples of ways the churches of the
Presbytery are working to make a difference for people who
are hungry.
Mission trip touches young people
On July 21st, 32 Senior High Youth and 8 adults from Oak
Park Fair Oaks departed on their 2006 summer mission
trip. The trip took the group to the Pine Ridge Indian
Reservation in southwestern South Dakota. The Pine Ridge
Reservation is in the second poorest county in the country.
The mission trip participants were challenged with the issues
of poverty that were rampant on the reservation. In spite of
some fear and
doubts, the youth
served faithfully
and exhaustively in
their time on the
reservation. Each
day the kids either
led Kid’s Club- a
summer long version of vacation
Youth from Oak Park Fair Oaks work with
Bible school for 80+
the Lakota Sioux
children, or painted
houses and did landscaping.
The mission trip was the high point of the year for many
participants and was a spiritually enriching experience. The
group was blessed with many opportunities to interact with
the Lakota Sioux who live on the reservation. All were deeply
moved as they heard stories of struggle and oppression. It
was humbling to see and hear all that the Lakota Sioux had
been through, and then to see how they still held onto the
hope that the proud way of Native American life could one
day return to the reservation.
This was a beautiful and challenging experience, filled with
laughter and tears. As one youth commented, “I only hope
that we have touched them as much as they have touched us!”
“Advance Justice” – Mission Stories
Cuban Global Partner visits Chicago
Presbyterian Women in Chicago welcomed Elder Eyda María
Núñez Cabezas from Havana, Cuba this summer. Elder
Cabezas came as a Global Partner to the 2006 Churchwide
PW Gathering in Louisville, Kentucky in July. She is a member of Iglesia
Presbiteriana
Nueva Paz in
Havana.
Last year, a
request came
from Rev.
Tricia LloydSidle, PC
(USA)
Cuban Visitor meets with Presbyterian Women
Mission
Coworker, and from Rev. Muriel Miller, Moderator of the
Presbytery’s Cuba Mission Team asking for help hosting a
visitor. The Coordinating Team for Presbyterian Women
(PW) in Chicago Presbytery accepted the challenge and,
along with the Presbyterian Women from Long Island and
National Capitol/New York Avenue, helped to bring seven
Cuban women to the United States, enabling them to enjoy
the experience of a PW Churchwide Gathering.
Prior to the Churchwide Gathering, Elder Eyda spent 10-days
in Chicago, hosted by the Rev. Martha Greene and the
Winnetka Presbyterian Church and the Rev. Magdalena
García and Chicago Ravenswood.
She spoke of her trip at an evening meeting of the
Ravenswood PW. It was the first time she had been away from
her family and country, and first time ever to be on an airplane. Women from Chicago Faith Community and the PW
Coordinating Committee joined the meeting. It was a joy to
discover that women church leaders here and in Cuba have
so much in common.
Submitted by Karen Scouten, Moderator, Coordinating Team for
Presbyterian Women in the Presbytery of Chicago.
2006 Churchwide PW Gathering
“Creation! Celebration! God’s Word—Light for the Journey”
was the theme of the 2006 Churchwide Gathering of
Presbyterian Women (PW) in July. Fifty-eight participants
from the Presbytery of Chicago traveled to Louisville for this
latest triennial Gathering. The bus chartered by PW of the
Synod of Lincoln Trains transported 24 from Chicago.
Each attendee received a tote bag made by the women of
Maya Works in Guatemala or by the Fair Trade Zone, a
women’s sewing cooperative in Nicaragua. It is the first worker-owned garment factory of its kind in the world. In the tote
bag was a light stick used many times during the meetings, and
a “Stretch Me God” bracelet. Also in the bag was a wooden
Solidarity Ring to wear as a symbol of commitment and solidarity with those involved in work for justice. These rings
came from Brazil, site of the 2005 PW Global Exchange.
The Business Meeting began with a half-day orientation for
voting representatives, which included the introduction of a
“consensus model of decision-making” as an alternative to
Robert’s Rules of Order. Subsequently, the consensus style of
decision-making was used for portions of the meeting.
At the business meeting, a newly-revised Mission Program,
“Together in Service” was introduced. The budget for the
coming triennium was presented, discussed, and passed.
Proposed bylaw changes were discussed and passed. New officers were elected, with Louise Howe (Chicago Fourth) as the
new Historian Slides presented the work of the 2003-2006
Churchwide Coordinating Team of Presbyterian Women.
The Gathering Offering of $60,333 funded three recipients:
The Rural Coalition; Agricultural Missions, Inc.; and
Widening the Circle. After a delightful performance by the
Choir of the Congo, voting representatives, PW leaders, and
staff presented their offering of $1875 to fund scholarships
for girls in the Congo.
Each of the 3000 attendees chose from among 60 workshops,
and from other afternoon activities, including opportunities
to meet some of the 82 Global Partners.
Each day began and ended with worship. For more
information about the Gathering, visit the PW website:
http://pcusa.org/pw/index.htm.
Notices
• For Rent: The Presbytery of Chicago is seeking a not-forprofit tenant for a private office suite at our building, 100 S.
Morgan St., Chicago, IL 60607. The 600 square foot first
floor space has a vaulted ceiling, track lighting, carpeting, a
separate kitchen area (10.5’ x 11.25’), a main office (14’ x
23.75’), and a private office (12’ x 12.5’). Private outdoor
parking and regular janitorial services included. Monthly
rent is $1,000. Contact: John Coughlin, Director of
Business Affairs at [email protected]
• For Sale: 100 padded, stackable chairs with racks to hold
hymnals and Bible. $10 each. Also 20-25 blue student
chairs for $5 each. Contact Naperville River Glen at
(630) 357-5104, [email protected].
• For Sale: Electric organ, piano, desk and desk chair. Organ
is Lowry Genius Digital Stereo Rhythm Organ, double keyboard and pedals. Piano is a Kawai spinet. Both in excellent condition. The desk is L-shaped with large and small
drawers, a computer keyboard shelf and a vertical compartment to hold computer tower. Chair is black and chrome
with upholstered arms, adjustable height. Contact Betty
Bergstrom at (312) 280-1248, [email protected].
11
Resources
A new face in the Resource Center
Meet Adele Hensley, the new Chicago Presbytery Resource
Center Coordinator. She began her work with the Presbytery
September 1st. She has this to say about the
Resource Center:
• Have you ever wondered if that new confirmation book is really worth $65?
• Do you wish you had access to a large screen
projector to show those digital pictures from the
mission trip to your whole congregation?
• Would you like to have more books about spirituality, faith formation, funny skits, or church
Adele Pfrimmer Hensley, leadership?
Resource Center
The Chicago Presbytery Resource Center (CPRC)
Coordinator
can help. We are supported by your congregation, and the books, videos, DVDs, games, and equipment
are here for you to preview, or to check out to take home. We
can mail books, videos, and DVDs to you, too. We now have a
searchable database you can use.
Transitions
PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY
Enrolled as Candidates Under Care:
• Mark Bedford, Chicago First
• Nicole Farley, Wildwood Presbyterian
Church
• Kathleen Kegel, Elmhurst Yorkfield
Deemed Prepared and authorized to seek a call:
• Misup Park
• Teri Peterson
• Scott Samuelson
Examined and Approved for Ordination:
• John Vest, to be ordained as Associate
Pastor, Chicago Fourth
• Michelle Monroe-Clark, to be ordained as
Chaplain, Alexian Brothers Behavioral
Health Hospital
Removed from the Roll:
• Douglas Basler
• Cheryl Scherer
COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
Arrivals:
• Rev. Dr. Robert L. Agnew, from Cincinnati
Presbytery, to serve as Interim Pastor,
Hickory Hills
• Rev. Benjamin T. Borgerson, H.R., from
Southeastern Illinois Presbytery.
• Rev. Thomas Daniel, from Greater Atlanta
Presbytery, to Co-Pastor, Evanston First
• Rev. Dr. Paul J. Kirbas, from the Peace
River Presbytery, to serve as Pastor, Head of
Staff, Wheaton First.
• Matthew Robert Lang, from Western New
York Presbytery, to be ordained and installed
as Designated Pastor, Des Plaines First.
• Rev. Dr. Richard Warren Smith, from the
Presbytery of West Jersey, to serve as
Interim Pastor, LaGrange First
12
Adele says, “If you are at the Presbytery office for a meeting,
stop by and say hello. I look forward to meeting you soon! I
am in the Resource Center Monday-Thursday. You can reach
me by calling the Presbytery (312) 243 8300 or by email:
[email protected] .
PMT Workshops
The Presbytery’s Property Ministries Team (PMT)
announces regional presentations of this year’s wellreceived LEAD workshop, “A Year In the Care of Church
Facilities”. The first three (Saturday mornings at 9:30am 11:30am) are scheduled for: October 21 at Chicago Lake
View, November 18 at Oak Park Fair Oaks and January 13,
2007 at Glen Ellyn First. Parking is available. Moderators
and members of Buildings & Grounds Committees are
encouraged to attend one of these workshops for an in-depth
discussion of the caring for buildings and an introduction to
the Presbytery’s PMT web resources. PMT invitations and
response forms will be distributed to churches.
For more information, contact Robert A. Hutchins, PMT
Moderator at (773) 348-6216.
Departures:
• Rev. Gustavo Asudillo, H.R., to the
Presbytery of Tropical Florida
• Rev. John Cairns, H.R., to Peace River
Presbytery.
• Rev. Marilyn Gamm, to the Presbytery of
John Knox, to become the Designated
Pastor of the Dale Heights Presbyterian
Church in Madison, WI.
• Rev. Jonathan B. Krogh, to Blackhawk
Presbytery, to serve as Stated Supply, First
Presbyterian Church of Peotone, IL.
• Rev. Steven Kurtz, to the Presbytery of
South Alabama, as member-at-large.
.• Rev. J. Michael Lane, to Heartland
Presbytery.
• Rev. Douglas A. Learned, from Glen Ellyn
Southminster, to National Capital
Presbytery to serve as Associate Executive
Pastor, National Presbyterian Church,
Washington, D.C.
• Rev. Thomas ‘Ted’ Miller, to the
Presbytery of East Iowa, to become the
Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in
Cedar Rapids, IA.
• Rev. Mark Ramsey, from Oak Park First
United, to Western North Carolina Presbytery,
to serve as Senior Pastor, Grace Covenant
Presbyterian Church in Ashville, N.C.
• Rev. J. Julius Scott, H.R., to Western North
Carolina Presbytery.
• Rev. Marcia Mount Shoop, to San
Francisco Presbytery, to serve as
Designated Associate Pastor, First
Presbyterian Church in Oakland, CA.
• Rev. Woo Ha Peter Yuh, H.R., to the
Presbytery of Northeast Georgia.
Changes within the Presbytery:
• Rev. Randall Bandy, H.R., to serve as
Temporary Supply/Moderator, Glenview.
• Rev. Nicole Bates, from Associate Pastor,
Arlington Heights First, to member-at-large.
• Rev. Jefferson Caldiera to pastor at
Chicago, Vida Nueva Presbyterian Church.
• Rev. Patrick Day, from LaGrange First to
Associate Pastor, Lake Forest First.
• Rev. Janet Dykstra, from member-atlarge, to Interim Pastor, St. Paul
Community Church, UCC, in Homewood.
• Rev. Colin Eversmann, approved as laboring outside the bounds as Associate Pastor,
Tokyo Union Church, in Tokyo, Japan.
• Rev. Jennifer Gleichauf, to serve as
Associate Pastor of the Winnetka
Congregational Church.
• Rev. Barbara Gorsky, to serve as Chaplain,
Alexian Brothers Medical Center
• Rev. Jerald B. Landrey, from Interim
Pastor, Wheaton First, to member-at-large.
• Rev. Victoria Decker Millar, from Interim
Associate Pastor at the First Presbyterian
Church of Wilmette, to Specialized Clergy.
• Rev. Sean Miller, installed as Associate
Pastor, Arlington Heights First.
• Rev. James Roghair, to serve as Interim
Pastor, First Congregational Church,
Evanston.
• Rev. Richard Williams, status changed to
serve as Campus Minister for the United
Campus Ministry at UIC.
• Frank Yamada, to be ordained and
approved as Seminary Faculty, SeaburyWestern Theological Seminary.
RETIREMENTS:
Rev. Howard L. Milkman, from Downers
Grove St. Luke to Honorably Retired.
DEATHS
Rev. Wallace David Moore, on Thursday,
June 8, 2006. Rev. Moore was the Pastor
Emeritus of Wilmette First.
Compartiendo Nuestro Ministerio
Presbytery of Chicago
www.chicagopresbytery.org
Jóvenes cubanos inspiran a
jóvenes de Chicago
En julio pasado, cerca de 50 jóvenes y adultos se reunieron
en Cuba para participar en una Conferencia Internacional
sobre Liderazgo Juvenil. La idea de
celebrar la conferencia surgió en el
Presbiterio de La Habana, entidad
que luego compartió esta propuesta
con sus presbiterios hermanos,
Chicago y Long Island. Este evento
fue una oportunidad singular para
que juventud cubana y norteamericana compartieran sus perspectivas
de fe. Se celebró del 10 al 17 de julio
en la Iglesia Presbiteriana Luyanó,
en La Habana.
Octubre 2006 • Volume 22 Number 3
Durante una de las reflexiones bíblicas las jóvenes exploraron sus funciones en la iglesia usando Jueces 6:1-26, la
historia de Gedeón, quien como joven oyó la voz de Dios.
Las conversaciones giraron en torno al nivel de compromiso que ellas tienen con la iglesia, lo que la iglesia espera
de ellas, y lo que ellas pueden hacer para ejercer una función vital en la iglesia.
Tanto la juventud cubana como la
estadounidense dijeron que desean
ser partes importantes de la iglesia,
pero que no siempre se les da la
oportunidad.
Las cubanas parecen estar más
involucradas en la totalidad de la
vida de sus iglesias. Una jovencita
cubana sugirió que eso podría
deberse a que su iglesia es más
joven y la juventud está asumiendo
el reto de ser participantes activos.
Ella animó a las jóvenes estadounidenses a que procuren crear
oportunidades en vez de esperar a
que los adultos se las ofrezcan. Otra
joven cubana animó a todo el grupo
a verse a sí mismas como líderes y
evangelistas.
Siete mujeres jóvenes procedentes
de tres iglesias del Presbiterio de
Chicago asistieron a la conferencia:
Brooke Helms y Kimberlee Frost, de
Clarendon Hills; Cassie Garcia, de
Glen Ellyn Southminster, y Allie
Ergang, Anne Paulsen, Anna
La Rev. Dra. Virginia (Ginny) Smith
Groebe, Kelsey Shawgo, de
Libertyville. Carmen Lago, de Libertyville, y la Rev. Muriel
El fin de semana lo pasaron conociendo de primera mano
Miller, de Evergreen Park, sirvieron como líderes adultas.
la realidad de la vida cotidiana en Cuba. Las jóvenes estaLa juventud se eligió de entre congregaciones locales que
dounidenses visitaron sus iglesias hermanas y las casas de
tienen iglesias hermanas en Cuba.
los miembros, participaron en la adoración y los estudios
Estas jóvenes y sus contrapartes cubanas tuvieron la oporbíblicos, y recorrieron sitios de la localidad.
tunidad de conocerse conversando, riéndose, cantando,
Al regresar a casa, las jóvenes del Presbiterio de Chicago
bailando, orando, adorando, construyendo puentes de
comentaron que su propia espiritualidad había crecido.
entendimiento y amistad, y explorando su fe. El programa
Aseguran que se les “pegó” la fe contagiosa de los cubanos.
fue planeado por los cubanos.
Una joven dijo que casi sentía celos al ver la fe de la juvenCada día comenzó con un devocional preparado y dirigido
tud cubana y su entusiasmo por la vida de la iglesia.
por la juventud. La primera mañana una jovencita cubana le
Otras Nocitias del Hermanamiento con Cuba: Un grupo
recordó al grupo que “tenemos la responsabilidad de no
de jóvenes adultos de Winnetka viajó a la Primera Iglesia
conformarnos con nada que sea menos de un compromiso
Presbiteriana de La Habana para una semana de trabajo, del
del 100 por ciento con Jesucristo”.
31 de julio al 9 de agosto. El próximo viaje del Presbiterio
La segunda mañana las jóvenes de Estados Unidos usaron el de Chicago será del 7 al 15 de noviembre, e incluirá miemtema bíblico de “la mujer junto al pozo” para desarrollar la
bros de la iglesia Fair Oaks, en Oak Park, y de
idea de que, después de haberse encontrado con Jesús, ellas Southminster, en Glen Ellyn.
necesitaban compartir las buenas nuevas no sólo sobre la
conferencia, sino también sobre Jesucristo.
Continues
13
Compartiendo Nuestro Ministerio
Artículo contribuido por la Rev. Muriel Miller, Moderadora, Grupo
de Trabajo Misionero para el Hermanamiento con Cuba.
Trasiciones de Liderazgo en el
Presbiterio
En la reunión ordinaria de su Asamblea, celebrada el 13 de
junio en la Primera Iglesia de Deerfield, el Presbiterio dio
la bienvenida al nuevo liderazgo y expresó su gratitud por los
líderes pasados.
La Rvda. Bárbara Bundick comenzó sus labores como secretaria permanente y la Rvda. Virginia Smith (Ginny) se unió al
personal en nómina como Presbítera Ejecutiva Asociada
(PEA) para Ministerio. El Presbiterio celebró el liderazgo
interino de Loretta Gratias-Bremer en la plaza de PEA. Ella
continuará proveyendo asistencia durante el período de
transición. Se agradeció al Rvdo. Bill Lankton y su esposa
Lynn por sus muchos años como director y cocinera, respectivamente, en los Campamentos Presbiterianos de
Saugatuck. Se mencionó la muerte de William Thompson, un
líder clave y de larga trayectoria en la Iglesia Presbiteriana
(E.U.A.) y miembro de la Primera Iglesia de La Grange.
Equipos de Liderazgo para las Prioridades de Misión
Desarrollar Congregaciones:
El Presbiterio autorizó la formación de un nuevo desarrollo
congregacional, la Iglesia Comunidad de Jesús, y acordó
proveer apoyo financiero para ésta y para la Asociación del
Pacífico Sur, que está en vías de convertirse en un nuevo
desarrollo de iglesia. El Presbiterio también aprobó la formación de una comisión administrativa en conjunto con el
Presbiterio Hanmi del Oeste Medio para facilitar la unión de
la Iglesia Presbiteriana Chicago (del Presbiterio Hanmi) y la
Iglesia Presbiteriana Evergreen (del Presbiterio de Chicago).
Avanzar la Justicia:
El Presbiterio votó a favor de coincidir con la propuesta del
Presbiterio de San Francisco a la 217 Asamblea General titulada “Iniciativa Presbiteriana Contra la Tortura”.
El Comité del Autodesarrollo de los Pueblos (SDOP, siglas en
inglés) reportó sobre ocho programas de autoayuda que recibieron donativos de un fondo de $30,000, producto de las
contribuciones a la ofrenda Una Gran Hora para Compartir.
Uno de premiados fue el Comité Mujer del Centro de
Trabajadores San Lucas. Vea el artículo en la página 4). Los
receptores de donativos hicieron presentaciones durante los
talleres de la preasamblea.
14
vo.
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Asuntos de
Negocios logró que se aprobara la
venta de la Casa Agape, el plan
financiero para la renovación de
Knox Naperville y las reparaciones
del techo de Wheaton Hope, y los
contratos de arriendo para Broadview
Community y Oak Lawn Community.
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre
Mayordomía y Desarrollo Financiero
presentó un taller durante la
Robert C. Reynolds
preasamblea sobre “Cómo Tener Éxito
con los Asuntos Monetarios: Más Allá de lo Básico”, dirigido
por Bob Kukla.
Las acciones de los comités de Ministerio y Preparación para
el Ministerio aparecen en la sección Transiciones, en la
página 12.
La reunión de la Asamblea del Presbiterio del 12 de agosto,
celebrada en la Iglesia Northbrook Village, fue una sesión
“prorrogada”, lo cual significa que sólo se consideraron
asuntos esenciales.
Presbítero Ejecutivo: Robert Reynolds expresó preocupación pastoral por varias personas, enter ellas el cardenal
Francis George, quien estaba programado para ser el predicador del día. La Hermana Joan Mc Guire tuvo la gentileza de
predicar en su lugar. Reynolds también pidió oraciones por
la Iglesia Presbiteriana en Colombia, que está celebrando
150 años de ministerio, y por la delegación del Presbiterio de
Chicago que viajó a Colombia en señal de apoyo.
Secretaria Permanente: Bárbara Bundick enfatizó la necesidad de que todas las iglesias envíen a la oficina del
Presbiterio copias de sus artículos de incorporación. Ella
también instó a los consistorios a ser diligentes en la
preparación previa a la ordenación e instalación de
ancianos/as y diáconos/diaconisas.
Informe de los Comisionados a la Asamblea General: Tres
de los comisionados del Presbiterio a la 217 Asamblea
General en Birmingham reportaron brevemente sobre sus
asignaciones y experiencias. Vea el artículo de portada. Los
comisionados presentarán un informe más completo en la
reunión de octubre de la Asamblea del Presbiterio.
Informe del Concilio Presbiterial
Informe del Concilio Presbiterial
El Presbiterio adoptó el Presupuesto Operativo del 2006, por
un total de $2,819,633, retroactivo al 1 de enero de 2006, y
aprobó un aumento salarial del 3% para el personal ejecuti-
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Litigios recibió aprobación para
gastar $200,000 adicionales en la defensa legal del caso
Douglas Mason.
Compartiendo Nuestro Ministerio
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Presupuesto recibió la aprobación
de la porción del Per Capita corresppondiente al Presbiterio,
que se fijó en $16.33. La porción de la Asamblea General será
de $5.79, y la del Sínodo se establecerá en Julio.
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Asuntos de Negocios presentó una
moción para que se aprobase el gravamen de la propiedad de
la Iglesia Lincoln Park de Chicago por una suma de hasta
$1,000,000 en relación con una línea de crédito o un préstamo para gastos de construcción, lo cual fue aprobado.
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre el Personal recomendó que se
renovara el contrato con el Rvdo. David Ezekiel como
Presbítero Ejecutivo Asociado para Desarrollo
Congregacional, retroactivo al 1 de febrero de 2006 y continuando hasta el 30 de junio de 2007. Se aprobó.
metido con estos propósitos, tanto local como globalmente.
Invito a los presbiterianos de Chicago a orar con otros pueblos de fe, para que llegue el día en que el diálogo y la diplomacia se procuren laboriosamente hasta acabar con el derramamiento de sangre y restaurar la paz y la justicia.
Estos eventos en el Oriente Medio son trágicos y altamente
preocupantes. No obstante, esperemos que la acción de junio
pasado tomada por la 217 Asamblea General de nuestra
Iglesia, que nos llama a “una nueva estación de
entendimiento mutuo y diálogo”, sea alcanzable.
Especialmente en estos tiempos tan agitados, trabajemos con
socios de buena voluntad y de todas las fes para luchar por
esta “nueva estación”.
El Grupo de Trabajo sobre Supervisión y Desarrollo del
Campamento reportó que los campamentos han sido acreditados por la Asociación Americana de Campamentos. La
revisión se hace cada tres años e incluye 26 estándares.
Nuestros campamentos sacaron una calificación de 99.4%.
El Presbiterio votó aceptar un acuerdo parcial fuera de corte
en una disputa con un vecino del campamento concerniente
al límite de la propiedad.
El Comité de Ministerio logró la aprobación de un incremento en el salario efectivo mínimo del clero, que ahora será
de $39,400. No se recomendaron incrementos para el servicio como suplente de púlpito o moderador. Las otras
acciones de los comités de Ministerio y Preparación para el
Ministerio aparecen en la sección Transiciones, en la página
12.
Tom Sullivan informó que ha habido progreso en la situación
en el Congo en tres frentes: se celebraron elecciones pacíficas, la 217 Asamblea General aprobó la recomendación del
Presbiterio de Chicago, y el Senado de los Estados Unidos
aprobó la legislación que el Presbiterio acordó apoyar.
La Pluma del Presbítero
Octubre 2006
Me entristece mucho la guerra del pasado verano en el
Oriente Medio. De todo corazón oro por los pueblos de
Israel, Líbano y Palestina, que ahora enfrentan los resultados
dolorosos de más violencia, sufrimiento y muerte. También
estoy orando por residentes locales, nuestros amigos y vecinos que personalmente se identifican con poblaciones particulares del Oriente Medio, y quienes experimentan cada
vez más miedo y turbación según se acelera el conflicto.
La Iglesia Presbiteriana (E.U.A.) ama la paz y promueve la
reconciliación a través del mundo. Como pastor presbiteriano y presbítero ejecutivo, yo siempre he estado compro-
15
Vision Statement
“Chicago Presbytery – A Beacon of Hope, guiding
Leaders, Congregations and Communities.”
Presbytery of Chicago 100 South Morgan Street Chicago, IL 60607
Saugatuck moves into Fall
Presbyterian Camps is celebrating the conclusion of a great
summer season and is now hosting fall retreat groups.
Our thanks go to the many volunteers who donated their time and
their funds to support the camp. A
couple worth a special mention are
Ted and Dottie Shaw, who have
been volunteering their entire
summer from May through
September to be part of the camp
staff. This is their 20th season as
volunteers. They tend the flowers,
do repair work to facilities, and
run the program center. They are
a treasure to have on staff.
In addition to a full Summer
Camp program for Camps Kema
and Gray, our camps in
Westminster Woods hosted 12
week long church family retreats
and an almost equal number of
weekend retreats.
The camp visitation by the
American Camping Association
resulted in the camp receiving a
rating of 99.4%. Eighty percent
is required for re-accreditation.
Coming Events
2006
• Oct. 12, Multimedia Workshop, “Boundaries,
Power & Vulnerability,” Presbyterian Church of
Western Springs, 8:30 am registration
• Oct. 17, Pre-Presbytery Mission Fair, sponsored
by the Network Empowerment Work Group.
• Oct. 17. Pre-Presbytery meeting, report from
General Assembly Commissioners
• Oct. 17, Presbytery Assembly meeting, 4:00 pm,
• Oct. 23-24, Mc.Cormick Days 2006. Contact
Kema Circle of Friends
Rev. Grayson Van Camp, (773) 947-6283.
• Oct. 27, Presbyterian Women Fall Gathering,
Chicago Second, 9:30 am registration
• Oct. 28-29, Worship Alive! Workshop: “Vital
Encounter: Artful Worship Space,” Saturday,
Oct. 28 at Presbyterian Church of Western
Springs; Sunday Oct. 29 at United Church of
Rogers Park. Contact Mark Bowman, [email protected]
• Nov. 6-13, Cuba Travel Seminar, contact Rev.
Muriel Miller, (773) 239-3003
• Nov. 10-12, Senior High Fall Retreat, George
Reservations for the 2007 retreat
season are now being accepted so
give us a call at (269) 857-3751 if
you want to join the fun.
Williams College, Lake Geneva, WI
2007
• Jan. 26-28, Junior High Winter Retreat, East
Bay Camp, Bloomington, IL
• Jan. 28-30, Clergy Retreat, St. Mary of the
Lake, Mundelein.
• Feb. 23-25, Confirmation Retreat,
Presbyterian Camps at Saugatuck
• Mar. 3, LEAD event, La Grange First
For more information on these events, call
(312) 243-8300 unless otherwise noted.