Presbytery of Great Rivers · Presbytery of Great Rivers June 9, 2015 March 10, 2015 Assembly...

Presbytery of Great Rivers June 9, 2015

March 10, 2015 Assembly Minutes of 23

Presbytery of Great Rivers March 10, 2015

STATED MEETING The Presbytery of Great Rivers met in Stated Meeting March 10, 2015 at Five Points in Washington, Illinois at 9:30 am. The meeting was called to order, opened with a call to worship, opening prayer and a gathering hymn. The purpose of the meeting was for Worship. Moderator CRE Sue Sawers led the Presbytery in worship and the transaction of business. An offering was collected to benefit the scholarship fund for the inquirers and candidates under care of the Presbytery. The offering total was $677.00. QUORUM & ROLL The roll was established by registration. The Moderator Sue Sawers, declared that a quorum was present with the roll established per registrations.

CITY & TEACHING & RULING ELDERS ELDER COMMISSIONERS CHURCH SERVING CHURCHES 55 OR ALTERNATES 54 A=Absent E=Excused

Adair, West Prairie ..................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Aledo, College Ave ..................... ......... Rev. Ann Elyse Hicks(1st listing) .............. Sharon Chandler

Aledo, Sunbeam ......................... ......... Ms. Sue Shike ........................................... Jean Harfst

Alexis, Norwood ......................... ......... Rev. Maura McGrath Nagle (1st Listing) ... N/A

Athens, Indian Point ................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

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

Biggsville, United ........................ ......... Rev. Richard L. Johnson ......................... Larry Sterett

Bloomington, Second ................. ......... Rev. David Barton .................................... Chuck Irwin

................................................... ......... ................................................................... Jim Danforth

................................................... ......... ................................................................... Sarah Home

Bloomington, St. Luke ................ E ....... Rev. Andrew Gifford ................................... John Otto

Buffalo Hart, Buffalo Hart ........... ......... Rev. Mary E. Jessup ................................ Donna Ingersoll

Bushnell, First ............................ ......... Rev. Elissa Bailey ..................................... Kathie Whitson

Canton, First ............................... ......... Rev. Tim Bauler ........................................ Terry Frame

Carlinville, Federated ................. ......... Rev. Betty Lynn Jordan ........................... Nate Rush

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

Carthage, First ........................... ......... Rev. Sue Loper (1st Listing) ...................... N/A

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

Chatham, Chatham .................... E ....... Mr. James Reitz ......................................... N/A

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

Clayton, First .............................. A ....... Mr. David Eyler ........................................... N/A

Clinton, Clinton ........................... ......... Rev. Benjamin Keller ............................... Sharon Ijams

Clinton, Clinton ........................... ......... Rev. Samantha Keller

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

Danvers, First ............................. ......... Rev. Kathy Otto ........................................ Kent Wurmnest

Delavan, First ............................. ......... Rev. Paul Kucera ...................................... Verbie Hoffman

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

E. Moline, First ........................... E ....... Rev. Rebecca A. Sherwood ....................... N/A

Edwards, Korean ........................ ......... Rev. Beunghoon Choi .............................. N/A

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

Eureka, Eureka .......................... ......... Mr. Nollan Harwood Jr ............................. N/A

Farmington, First ........................ ......... Rev. Linda Philabaun ............................... Kathleen Welch



Galesburg, First .......................... ......... Rev. Shawn Smith .................................... Jim LaDuke

Geneseo, First ............................ ......... Rev. Tim Doty ........................................... N/A

Green Valley, First ..................... E ....... Mr. Charles Houston .................................. N/A

Greenview, United ...................... ......... Ms. Stephanie McCullough ..................... Connie Eimer

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

Ipava, United .............................. ......... Rev. Daniel deBeer (1st Listing) ................ Dean Bidney

Jacksonville, First ....................... ......... Rev. Thom Nelson .................................... Merle Fox

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

Knoxville, First ............................ A ....... Ms. Phyllis Sterr ......................................... N/A

LeRoy, First ................................ ......... Rev. Edward Loper ................................... Dennis Mennenger

Lewistown, First ......................... ......... Rev. Daniel deBeer (2nd listing) ................ Clyde Eskridge

Lincoln, First ............................... ......... Rev. Adam Quine ..................................... Julie Kasa

Macomb, First ............................ ......... Rev. Mark Merrill ...................................... Gene Miller

Macomb, Scotland Trinity ........... E ....... Rev. Gary Elg ............................................. N/A

Mason City, United ..................... A ....... Rev. Bonita Quandt .................................... N/A

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

Medora, Summerville ................. ......... Mr. Mike Paddock ..................................... N/A

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

Milan, First .................................. E ....... Rev. Joyce Chamberlin .............................. Jeanette McLaughlin

Moline, First ................................ ......... Rev. Greg Graybill .................................... Doug Peterson

Monmouth, Faith ........................ ......... Rev. Kathy Stoner Lasala ........................ N/A

Monmouth, Heritage ................... A ....... Rev. John Irwin........................................... N/A

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

Monmouth, Sugar Tree ............. E ....... Rev. Teri Ott

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

Morton, First ............................... ......... Ms. Penny Frame

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

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

New Windsor, United ................. ......... Rev. Mark Bedford ................................... N/A

Niota, Appanoose Faith .............. E ....... Mr. David Poland ........................................ N/A

Normal, First ............................... A ....... Rev. Lawrence R. Gaylord ......................... N/A

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

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

Oneida, United ........................... ......... Rev. David Pyell ......................................... Larry Lawson

Orion, Beulah ............................. ......... VACANT ..................................................... Donna Metzler

Pekin, First ................................. ......... Rev. Charles Cunningham ...................... Gregory Reamer

Peoria, Bethel ............................. ......... VACANT ..................................................... Bill Crocker

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

Peoria, United ............................ ......... Rev. Stephen McKinney Whitaker .......... Laurie Hartshorn

Peoria, United ............................ ......... Rev. Patricia Stetson-Warning ................ Alexis Maloof

Peoria, Westminster ................... ......... Rev. Denise Clark Jones ......................... N/A

Perry, Perry ................................ A ....... Rev. Bruce Pilcher ..................................... N/A

Petersburg, Central .................... ......... Rev. Leah Elrod ........................................ Janene Tice

Pleasant Plains, Farmingdale .... ......... Rev. Lonna Chang-Ren Lee .................... Thomas Williamson

Prairie City, First ......................... A ....... Mr. Kurt Ayres ............................................ N/A

Quincy, Ellington ........................ A ....... Mr. Ron Cox ............................................... Marvin Pothoven

Reynolds, Hamlet Perryton ........ ......... Rev. Wayne Furr ....................................... Randy Chard



Rio, Rio ....................................... ......... Rev. Maura McGrath Nagle (2nd Listing) .. N/A

Rock Island, Broadway .............. A ....... Rev. Gay Behrensmeyer ............................ Victoria Blair

Rock Island, Gloria Dei .............. ......... Rev. Drew D. Nagle (1st listing) ................. Ken Flack

Rock Island, Good Shepard ....... ......... Rev. James Benson ................................. James Bertelsen

Rock Island, South Park ............. A ....... Rev. Kenn C. Shedenhelm ......................... Sherrill Mixer

Rushville, First ............................ ......... VACANT ..................................................... Sundy Moore

Seaton, Center ........................... ......... Rev. Ann Elyse Hicks (2nd Listing) ........... Elwanda Sheriff

Sherrard, Community ................. ......... Rev. Drew Nagle (2nd Listing) .................... Evelyn Shafer

Springfield, First ......................... ......... Rev. Clifford Hayes .................................. Tom Bartels

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

Springfield, Knox ........................ E ....... VACANT ..................................................... N/A

Springfield, Korean ..................... ......... Rev. Jae Chul Kim .................................... N/A

Springfield, Third ........................ ......... Rev. Brent Mitchell ................................... Thomas Turnbull

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

Springfield, Westminster ............ ......... Rev. Hannah Dreitcer ............................... Sandi Bellatti

Stronghurst, Stronghurst ............ A ....... Mr. Phillip Cooper (2nd Listing) ................... Don Fry

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

Viola, United ............................... ......... Rev. Jack Brown ........................................ N/A

Virden, First ................................ ......... Ms. Susan Sawers .................................... Peggy McDonald

Virginia, First .............................. ......... Rev. Marcia Forman ................................. Bill French

Virginia, Sangamon .................... A ....... Rev. Brian Days ........................................ N/A

Warsaw, First ............................. ......... Rev. Sue Loper (2nd Listing) ...................... Margaret Dennis

Washington, Washington ........... ......... Rev. Rebecca S. Weltmann ..................... Brad Swearingen

White Hall, First .......................... ......... Rev. Johannes Poetschner ..................... N/A

Woodhull, United ........................ ......... Rev. Cheyanna Losey .............................. Janet Strickland

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

Yates City, Faith ......................... ......... VACANT ..................................................... Mary Watts

AT LARGE, SPECIALIZED, AND HONORABLY RETIRED MINISTERS PRESENT TOTAL: 09 (Honorably Retired ministers and ministers laboring outside the bounds of Great Rivers are automatically

excused)

Members at Large: Validated Ministry: Honorably Retired:

Rev. David Esche Rev. Sue Baller Shepard Rev. Gerald Boutelle Rev. Beth Hamilton Rev. Chip Roland Rev. Harry Losey Rev. Charlotte Poetschner Rev. Jack Porter Rev. Richard Tindall ADMINISTRATION & VISIONING TEAM MEMBERS TOTAL: 07 (Not Listed Elsewhere - voting members of Presbytery)

David Eaton Kathy Davis Bill Opper Michael Gizzi Gary Terpstra Brian McMasters Sandi Woodard MODERATOR / MODERATOR ELECT OR PRIOR MODERATOR TOTAL: 03 (Not Listed Elsewhere - voting members of Presbytery)

Gary Davis Anne Eaton Linda Miller



OTHERS PRESENT (voice without vote) TOTAL: 03 Committee Members: Corresponding Members:

Roger Mixer Sarah Dingman, Missouri River Valley Lance Slavish RULING ELDERS PRESENT NOT COUNTED ELSEWHERE (without voice/vote) TOTAL:00 N/A OTHERS PRESENT (without voice/vote): TOTAL: 16 Visitors Visitors Presbytery Staff Inquirers/Candidates

Jim Dennis Ruth Ellen Gabor Amy Gardner Trajan McGill Karen Icenogle George Kalemkarian Patti Parrish Sarah McGill Margaret Paddock Rev. Felipe Martinez Phyllis Pothoven James Strickland Patricia Turnbull Patricia Welker Jack Wheeler Beth Zambone TOTAL ATTENDANCE: 147 CORRESPONDING MEMBERS The assembly motioned, seconded and approved to seat Rev. Sara Dingman from the Missouri River Valley Presbytery – Transitional Synod Executive, Synod of Lincoln Trails. OPENING BUSINESS The assembly motioned, seconded and approved the Docket as presented. New Commissioners to the Assembly were introduced at the tables. Introduction of New Minister Members presented by Teaching Elder Stephen McKinney-Whitaker: James Benson, Rock Island Good Shepherd Ann Elyse Hicks, Aledo College Ave and Seaton Center Presbyterian Church Shawn Smith, Galesburg First Linda Philabaun, Interim Pastor at Farmington, IL TREASURER’S REPORT (See Appendix A) Presented by Ruling Elder Gary Davis. The financials were in a separate document. Graphs were also presented to show where we stand as a Presbytery and the news was positive. The Presbytery motioned, seconded and approved to receive the report. STATED CLERK’S REPORT (See Appendix B) Presented by Transitional Executive Presbytery Felipe Martinez. The assembly motioned, seconded and approved the receiving of the report. COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY REPORT (See Appendix C) Presented by Teaching Elder Elissa Bailey. A motion was presented to the assembly, no second needed, to obtain a waiver regarding the Book of Order requirement of New Testament Greek exegesis (G-2.0607c) for Amanda Huels. The committee requests that prior to Amanda being ordained, she will graduate, complete a full year of candidacy, and submit a New Testament Greek Exegesis paper for approval. Rev. Drew Nagle and Rev. Hannah Dreitcer will read and approve the paper on behalf of the committee. The Assembly passed the motion by the required 2/3 vote. A motion was presented to the assembly, no second needed, and approved to receive Brandon Ouellette as an inquirer under the care of the presbytery.



Candidate Trajan McGill was presented and examined by the Assembly for the ordination of Teaching Elder. The motion was made to suspend the examination and was approved. The motion was made to arrest the examination. The ordination of Trajan McGill was motioned, seconded and approved. The rest of the report was received. VISIONING TEAM REPORT (See Appendix D) The report was presented by Stephen McKinney-Whitaker and was turned over to Felipe Martinez to introduce our trainer for today. TRAINING Training was conducted by Mr. De’Amon Harges. We need to be seen. As humans we do. Sometimes in the church we don’t see people either. As the church, we can do so many things, provide so many programs, but if we do not help others see the people around us who need to be seen, we have missed the point. In our congregations, our people can be looked at as committee persons but not as the person who is being seeking to be seen. We can also see at times what we don’t have but when we choose to look at each other for who we are and who we are called to be and if we name the gifts of every person we come into contact with and connect with them, then we are doing as we are called. We are to celebrate them and bless them. The important role of the church, of our theology is to see each other.” The biggest need in us is our need to be needed. It isn’t what you need but instead what you have. We will learn about and practice congregational community building through naming, blessing, and connecting gifts. Congregations can play a vital role in making the invisible visible.” Ruling Elder Mike Gizzi presented more information on the Interfaith Group. The group worked on informing themselves more as they sought where they would focus their work. The program “Bucks for Blessings” was presented with more information to come out. This will be for youth groups. If you have a youth group and you want a $1,000 to bless people outside of the church, just fill out a form and you will receive it with the understanding you will present a short video to show what you did. The assembly motioned, seconded and approved the receiving of the rest of the report. NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT (See Appendix E) The report was presented by Ruling Elder Julie Kasa. The slate was presented as follows: Teaching Elder Hannah Dreitcer – Visioning, Class of 2017, Term 1 Ruling Elder Leland Wright – COM, Class of 2016, Term 1 Teaching Elder Paul Kucera – PJC, Class of 2020, Term 1 There were no additional nominations from the floor. Motioned and approved. ADMINISTRATION TEAM (See Appendix F) The report was presented by Ruling Elder Gary Terpstra. The assembly motioned, seconded and approved to receive the report. ANNOUNCEMENTS The offering for this assembly meeting is being collected to help support the scholarship fund for the inquirers and candidates under care of the Presbytery. Each school year, our inquirers and candidates who are still in seminary are eligible for a $1,000 scholarship. This past year we had five recipients of the scholarships. Throughout the year, an installation and ordination services that take place in our Presbytery collect an offering that also goes to this fund. When the fund runs low, the Presbytery makes up the difference.



WORSHIP Teaching Elder Felipe Martinez preached on Ruth 1:8-17, 22 and 2:1-12. His message was that “the test comes when we have to think about those outside of our circle.” Ruth teaches us what it means to be a family with those who were originally strangers. When we claim each other as brothers and sisters in when we find ourselves truly in community with one another. We are encouraged to stretch the boundaries of our families. BILLS & OVERTURES COMMITTEE Presented by Teaching Elder Richard Johnson Time was set aside to speak to the amendments that referred to the definition of marriage and the Confession of Belhar. No other amendments were pulled out to discuss as was the wish of the assembly. Ballot on Proposed Amendments Presbytery of Great Rivers 14-1 Confession of Belhar On Amending the Book of Confessions (Item 13-01) YES: 84 NO: 39 14-A. Renunciation of Jurisdiction On Amending G-2.0509 (Item 06-05) YES: 96 NO: 19 14-B. Special Committee to Review the Preparation for Ministry Process and Standard Ordination Exams (Item 06-12) 14-B.1. Final Assessment On Amending G-2.0607 (Item 06-12, Recommendation 11) YES: 106 NO: 13 14-B. Special Committee to Review the Preparation for Ministry Process and Standard Ordination Exams (Item 06-12) 14-B.2. Accommodations On Amending G-2.0610 (Item 06-12, Recommendation 12) YES: 100 NO: 13 14-C. Child Protection Policy On Amending G-3.0106 (Item 08-14) YES: 106 NO: 8 14-D. Minimum Composition of a Presbytery On Amending G-3.0301 (Item 06-06) YES: 105 NO: 11 14-E. Interreligious Stance On Amending G-5.0102 (07-02, Recommendation 2) YES: 93 NO: 25 14-F. Marriage On Amending W-4.9000 (Item 10-02) YES: 80 NO: 41 COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY REPORT (See Appendix G) The report was presented by Teaching Elder Kathy Stoner Lasala. Motion made to assembly to approval in a COM recommendation for 2015 minimum salary to increase by 1.7% for all. 2015: Less than 4 years ordained ministerial experience: minimum total effective salary $41,909 4 or more years ordained ministerial experience: minimum total effective salary $45,124 Effective Salary for a Full-time Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE): $33,526. This motion did not pass. 45-43



A motion was made from the prevailing side to reconsider the votes (as Committee on Ministry members were sent out of the room to count ballots.). The motion passed to reconsider. Upon a reconsidering vote, the motion passed 59-49. The rest of the report was received. ADJOURNMENT A motion at adjourn was moved, seconded and approved at 2:15pm. Moderator Elect, Teaching Elder Cheyanna Losey, closed the meeting in prayer. The next Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of Great Rivers will take place at Five Points in Washington, IL on June 9, 2015 at 9:30am.



APPENDIX A TREASURER’S REPORT

Loan Delinquencies - None PILP - Korean Presbyterian Church, Edwards – Current Mortgage - Cathedral of Praise – Current

Board of Pensions Dues Delinquencies - None. Note: Delinquencies in excess of 120 days can result in suspension of benefits.

Per Capita - $375,099.90 or 93% of 2014 Per Capita received from 92 churches. As of December 31, 2013 we had received 93% of the 2013 Per Capita. 2014 unpaid Per Capita totaled $26,924.01, see attached sheet for additional details.

Shared Mission - $256,501.76 of Shared Mission received as of December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2013 we had received $255,989.21 of Shared Mission.

Expenses – YTD $446,830 as of 12/31/14. Primary reasons that no unrestricted net assets were used in 2014 were reduced Presbyter payroll costs as a result of a short term vacancy, lower than budgeted per capita shortfall and fewer Mission Initiative Grants than budgeted.

See attached graphs additional details



APPENDIX B STATED CLERK’S REPORT

Recommended action to the floor of Presbytery: THAT THE STATED CLERK’S REPORT BE ENTERED INTO THE MINUTES AND THE RECOMMENDATIONS THEREIN BE ADOPTED. 1. Members to be received, dismissed, Honorably Retired, REMOVED, or deceased RECOMMEND THAT the following ministers be granted the status of Honorably Retired:

Dr. David Anderson Rev. Harry Losey Rev. John Zingaro REPORT THAT the following ministers have been received into membership the Presbytery of Great Rivers: Rev. James Benson from the Presbytery of Shenango Rev. Ann Elyse Hicks from The James Presbytery. Rev. Dr. Felipe N. Martinez from Whitewater Valley Presbytery Rev. Shawn Smith from The James Presbytery

REPORT THAT the following minister members have been dismissed to another presbytery:

Rev. Ryan Bradney to Transylvania Presbytery. Rev. Chris Deacon to Baltimore Presbytery. Rev. Matt Downey to Whitewater Valley Presbytery. Rev. Dr. John S. Kay to the Presbytery of South Eastern Illinois.

2. CURRENT ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSIONS

Dismiss with thanks the commission to install the Rev. Sarah Tunall as Associate Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington, Illinois.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to install the Rev. Denise Clark-Jones as Pastor of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain Susan Tindall at Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington on behalf of College Hills Presbyterian Church in Easton, Pennsylvania.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain Matthew Downey at the Aledo, College Avenue Presbyterian Church on December 14, 2014.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain and install Ann Elyse Hicks at Seaton, Center Presbyterian Church and to be yoked with Aledo, College Avenue Church on December 21, 2014.

3. SYNOD OF LINCOLN TRAILS

Synod Meeting Highlights, Philo Presbyterian Church, Philo Illinois October 25, 2015: 1. Sara Dingman, Transitional Synod Executive led the synod through a power point

presentation “A Time of Transition” citing Joshua 3:1-4:8. She highlighted the three phases of transition: A. Ending, Losing, Letting Go – still grieving. B. The Neutral Zone – just waiting - feeling “do I want to commit.” C. The New Beginning – ready. Commissioners engaged in small group discussion.

2. The Personnel Committee made recommendations related to Sara Dingman’s contract on housing allowance, vacation time, and 2015 salary increase.

3. The Synod elected Ruling Elder Blake Wood to the position of Stated Clerk for the term 1/1/2015-12/31/2016.

4. The Board of Directors presented its report with information items and no items for action. 5. Synod elected Ruling Elder Karen Hahn (Ohio Valley) as Moderator of Synod for 2015 and

Ruling Elder Beth Bedwell (Whitewater Valley) as Vice-Moderator of Synod for 2015.



6. The Standing Committee on Leadership Development reported on these ongoing programs: New Pastors Support, MALT Education for Transitional Ministry, CRE Continuing Education, and “Tea is at Four - Leaders and Leadership for the Church That’s Yet to Be.”

7. The Standing Committee on Mission Coordination and Administration moved the adoption of the 2015 budget.

4. REQUEST RECEIVED

COM voted on February 24, 2015 to grant Gloria Dei Presbyterian Church of Rock Island the request for a waiver on terms of service as found in G-2.0404. The request is for permission to have Ruling Elder Marlo Greer serve a third consecutive term of three years as a member of the Session.

5. ADDITIONAL REPORTS

1. An Investigative Committee was formed (and trained on January 7, 2015 by Laurie Griffin from Constitutional Services Office in OGA) to address an allegation against a church member of one of our congregations. The congregation in question requested presbytery to assume original jurisdiction for the purpose of the disciplinary process. Presbytery approved the request at a special presbytery meeting on December 9, 2014.

2. The presbytery’s Permanent Judicial Commission received training on January 24, 2015 from Blake Woods, Stated Clerk for the Synod of Lincoln Trails.

3. As of February 17, 2015, 86 of 99 Great Rivers churches had turned in their annual statistical report



APPENDIX C COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY REPORT

Motion passed to certify Gary Panetta ready to receive a call. Motion passed to certify Amanda Huels ready to receive a call upon approval of waiver from Presbytery regarding the Book of Order requirement of New Testament Greek exegesis (G-2.0607c). Motion passed that prior to being ordained, Amanda graduate, complete a full year of candidacy, and submit a New Testament Greek Exegesis paper for approval. Rev. Drew Nagle and Rev. Joyce Chamberlin (if she agrees) to read and approve paper. Motion passed to receive Brandon Ouellette as an inquirer under the care of the presbytery and be received as such. Brandon has been endorsed by the session of Monmouth, Sugar Tree Grove Presbyterian Church.



APPENDIX D VISIONING TEAM REPORT

Visioning Team met on Tuesday, February 10, 2015 at United Presbyterian Church in Peoria. Discussion of how to allocate the grant from the Synod of Lincoln Trails is as follows:

- $25,000 for Family Camp - $25,000 for Transitional Ministry training - $50,000 for Flexible Funds for other Transformation grants

According to bylaws, the assembly planning team includes PGR officers, moderators of Visioning Team, Administration Team and General Presbyter. The committee agreed on pursuing three new projects as follows:

- College ministry – College Outreach - Church Partnership Program - Mission Initiative Grants - Bucks for Blessings



APPENDIX E NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT

VISIONING Hannah Dreitcer – Class of 2017, Term 1 COM Leland Wright - Class of 2016, Term 1 PJC Paul Kucera – Class of 2020, Term 1



APPENDIX F ADMINISTRATION TEAM

E-Vote approved the purchase of property by Galesburg PC for pastoral housing. Motion to elect Boni Quandt as Vice Chair of AT. M/S/P Motion to approve for $800 cost for a speaker (travel included), De’Amon Harges. Expense would come from assembly expenses budget. M/S/P Motion to approve the payment to two Peoria churches hosting most presbytery committee meetings (First Federated and United) for cost of supplies (coffee, cups, napkins, etc). M/S/P Motion to accept the GA offer to take the end-of-2014 numbers for GA per capita for churches who have had a 10 % decrease or more in membership. M/S/P Motion to continue with the practice where churches with a drop of 10% or more would be assessed per capita based on 2014 numbers for Synod of Lincoln Trails and PRG. M/S/P. Motion to accept bid from Eck, Schafer & Punke, LLP and have a full audit, and to continue the discussion of how often we will do a full audit (currently it is an external audit one year and then two years internal review) M/S/P Amy presented a series of charts to report on the presbytery’s financials. Motion to accept the distribution of the Ebersolt Fund proceeds this year agreed upon by churches involved. M/S/P Distribution as follows:

Indian Point United Presbyterian Church, Athens $2,391.03

United Presbyterian Church, Greenview $2,391.03

Central Presbyterian Church, Petersburg $2,391.03

Rock Creek Presbyterian Church, Tallula $2,391.02

Total Funds Available for Distribution $9,564.11. After discussion, AT agreed that we will continue with the current arrangement to have Cathedral of Praise make mortgage payments to us and have Cathedral of Praise pay their insurance directly. Motion to remove David Eaton’s name from the accounts and to add Gary Terpstra to the accounts. M/S/P Personnel E-vote approved to dissolve The Presbytery of Great Rivers of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Health Flexible Spending Plan” that was effective January 1, 2004 and establish, The Presbytery of Great Rivers of the Presbyterian Church(USA) Health Flexible Spending Arrangement and Dependent Care Spending Account. (Effective January 1, 2015). Personnel agreed to have the presbytery’s contribution to Amy’s 403b to remain at 35% (she is the only staff member who chooses not to participate in the Board of Pensions medical or pension plan) Gary Terpstra will follow up with the clerk of the session regarding the sale of the Woodson Church building to bring this item into compliance, since the presbytery must approve the sale. Moline First Presbyterian Church has submitted a request for Listening Team. The chair of AT is among the people who will be in a conference call to select that team. Felipe made a short presentation about the possibility to subscribe to Mission Insite under the Synod’s contract. Felipe will make the presentation to COM, who in turn will make a formal proposal to AT.



APPENDIX G COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY REPORT

October 2014 Approved Omnibus Motion

Corrected contract between Rev. Tim Doty and Geneseo-First Presbyterian Church.

Interim contract between Rev. Julie Blyth and Athens, Indian Point.

Continuing Education Grant for Rev. Tim Doty.

Post Retirement Service Registration for Rev. Tim Doty. Ratified e-votes

Approve the retirement of Rev. Harry Losey.

Approve the exam done by Rev. Charles Cunningham, Elder Roger Mixer and Rev. Kathy Stoner-Lasala of Rev Shawn Smith for a possible call to Galesburg.

Approve that the COM approve James A. Benson for membership in the Presbytery of Great Rivers should he be extended and accept a call to a congregation within our bounds.

ACTION ITEMS

Motion passed: all first call pastors be assigned a mentor who will report monthly to the transition committee about how the pastor is doing for 1 year and be assigned to installation committee by COM

Motion passed with 1 abstention, pending assembly approval in March, COM recommendation for 2015 minimum salary to increase by 1.7% for all.

2015: Less than 4 years ordained ministerial experience: minimum total effective salary $41,909 4 or more years ordained ministerial experience: minimum total effective salary $45,124 Effective Salary for a Full-time Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE): $33,526 CONTRACTS

Contract between Rev. Daniel Ott and Monmouth, Sugar Tree Grove. Cash Salary: $5,546.25 Housing Allowance: $5,546.25 Total Effective Salary: $11,092.50

Contract between Rev. Julie Wells Blythe and Athens, Indian Point Cash Salary: $8,874 Housing Allowance: $8,874 Total Effective Salary: $17,748 Mileage Reimbursement: $500 Continuing Education: $400 (Minimum 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays)

Pastoral Call to Ann Elyse Hicks from College Avenue Presbyterian Church in Aledo and Central Presbyterian Church in Seaton. This is a yoked position Cash Salary: $39,500 Manse: $7,200 Housing Allowance: $8,300 Mileage Reimbursement: vouchered at IRS rate up to $5,000 miles. Continuing Education: $1,000 (2 weeks may be accumulated through 3 years) Moving costs up to $5,000 Vacation: 4 weeks and 4 Sundays

Interim Contract between Rev. Laurence (Tim) Doty and First Presbyterian Church in Geneseo. Cash Salary: $45,000 Housing Allowance: $16,000 Total Effective Salary: $61,000 BOP Dues: $7,320



Vacation: 4 weeks including 4 Sundays Continuing Ed/Reimbursable Expenses: $1,000 Continuing Education: (2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays) Profession expenses: $1,500

Correspondence

Motion passed to receive letter from Ralph Barnett of renunciation of jurisdiction November 18, 2014 Approved Omnibus Motion

Move Rev. Steve Akins to Member at Large.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to install the Rev. Sarah Tunall as Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington, Illinois.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to install the Rev. Denise Clark-Jones as Pastor of the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain Susan Tindall at Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington on behalf of College Hills Presbyterian Church in Easton, Pennsylvania.

Certification of Dissolution of a Pastoral Relationship between Rev. Chris Deacon and First Presbyterian Church of Farmington, IL.

Receive Ann Elyse Hicks into membership of the Presbytery of Great Rivers from The James Presbytery.

Dismiss Rev. Chris Deacon to the Baltimore Presbytery. Action Items

Aledo/Seton: Motion to approve a commission to Ordination and Installation Ann Elyse Hicks on Sunday, December 21, 2014 at 3.30 p.m. Moderator Rev. Cheyanna Losey Elder Kay Downey, Aledo Elder Karen Jones, Seaton-Center Rev. Drew Nagle, Rock Island-Gloria Dei Elder Roger Mixer, Rock Island-South Park

Motion passed to hire Rev. Samantha Keller as Dean of the Commission Ruling Elder Program. Rev. Daniel deBeer to take to the Personnel Committee when they meet in December.

Motion passed to approve the theological exam for Rev. Felipe Martinez.

Motion passed to approve accepting Rev. Felipe Martinez into the Presbytery of Great Rivers. January 27, 2015 Approved Omnibus Motion

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain Matthew Downey at the Aledo, College Avenue Presbyterian Church on December 14, 2014.

Dismiss with thanks the commission to ordain and install Ann Elyse Hicks at Seaton, Center Presbyterian Church and to be yoked with Aledo, College Avenue Church on December 21, 2014.

Dismiss Rev. Ryan Bradney to Transylvania Presbytery.

Dismiss Rev. Matt Downey to Whitewater Valley Presbytery.

Receive James Benson into the Presbytery of Great Rivers from the Presbytery of Shenango

Receive Shawn Smith into the Presbytery of Great Rivers from the James Presbytery

Approve Rev. Dave Esche become a Member at Large. Last day at Galesburg, 01/15/15.

Approve the draft Call/Contract Form created by Maura McGrath-Nagle



Ratified e-votes

Commission to Ordain Matthew Downey at College Avenue Presbyterian Church in Aledo, IL on Sunday the 14th of December at 5:00 PM. He was under the care of Great Rivers Presbytery and has accepted a call to Boggstown, Indiana.

Action Items

Motion passed to remove Jim Norton from Pulpit Supply list.

Motion passed to approve the MIF for First Presbyterian Church in Geneseo.

Motion passed to approve the Orion, Beulah Presbyterian Church MIF for the small church residency program first time call, serve 2 years

Motion passed to permit the Session of First Presbyterian Church in Normal to elect an APNC upon completion of a mission study, under guidance of a consultant, by the session of FPCN and approval by COM.

Motion passed to approve the commission to install Rev. James Benson on February 2, 2015 as pastor at the Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church in Rock Island. TE Dick Johnson, Moderator TE Rebecca Sherwood TE Drew Nagel TE Maura Nagel RE Debra Bonnett, First Milan RE Mike Wendland, Good Shepherd RE Roger Mixer South Park TE James Singleton Presbytery Northern New England (Corresponding Member)

Motion passed to approve COM conducting floor examinations of candidates under care of other presbyteries.

CONTRACTS

Contract between CRE Ann Kelson and Knox Presbyterian Church in Springfield This is a part time position beginning 01/01/15 and ending 03/31/15 Cash: $500/month

Contract between CRE Stephanie McCullough and United Presbyterian Church in Greenview This is a full time position beginning 01/01/15 and ending 12/31/15. Cash: $32,100 Housing Allowance: $12,000 TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $44,100 Board of Pensions: $16,096.50 BOP Optional Coverage: $ Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays Mileage Reimbursement vouchered at the current IRS allowable rate: $2,500 Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $1,000 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years Reimbursable Professional Expense: $500

Contract between CRE Sue Shike and Sunbeam United Presbyterian Church in Aledo This is a part time (25%) position beginning 01/01/15 and ending 12/31/15 Cash: $8,000 Housing Allowance: $5,000 TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $13,000 Vacation: Five Sundays Mileage Reimbursement vouchered at the current IRS allowable rate: $1,200 Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $500 / 12 days

Contract between Rev. Jack Brown and United Presbyterian Church in Viola This is a part time (45%) position beginning 01/01/15 and ending 12/31/15. Cash: $6,720 Housing Allowance: $13,200



TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $19920 Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays Maternity/Paternity Leave: Minimum two months paid maternity leave or two weeks paid paternity. Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $750 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years

Contract between Rev. Mary Jessup and Buffalo Hart Presbyterian Church in Buffalo Hart This is a par time (50%) position beginning 01/01/15 and ending 12/31/15 Cash: $29,580 Housing Allowance: $6,000 TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $35,580 BOP Optional Coverage $ Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays Mileage Reimbursement vouchered at the current IRS allowable rate: $4,050 Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $1,000 Amount of time - as needed Reimbursable Professional Expense - all

TERMS OF CALL

Rev. Mark Bedford, New Windsor Cash: $33,500 Manse Value: $14,145 Housing Allowance: $ TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $47,645 Board of Pensions: $17,390 BOP Optional Coverage: $905.28 (dental) Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays Maternity/Paternity Leave: Minimum two months paid maternity leave or two weeks paid paternity. Mileage Reimbursement vouchered at the current IRS allowable rate: $3,000 Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $1,000 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years

Rev. Ed Loper, Leroy First United Presbyterian Church, Leroy Cash: $28,500 Housing Allowance: $21,000 TOTAL EFFECTIVE SALARY: $49,500 Board of Pensions: $17,325 Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays Mileage Reimbursement vouchered at the current IRS allowable rate: $2,000 Continuing Education Reimbursable expenses: $3,000 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years Reimbursable Professional Expense: $1,980

Pastoral Calls

Pastoral call to James Benson from Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church in Rock Island Effective Salary Cash Salary: $36,000 Housing Allowance: $10,000 Utilities Allowance: $2,000 Total: $48,000 Reimbursable expenses Mileage at the current IRS rate: $2,000 Continuing Education: $1,000 Other allowances: $1,000 Moving Costs: $4,000 paid directly to moving company Board of Pensions Member + family: $$17,520 Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays



Maternity/Paternity Leave: Minimum two months paid maternity leave or two weeks paid paternity. 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years

Pastoral call to Shawn Smith, First Presbyterian Church in Galesburg Effective Salary Cash Salary: $47,000 Housing Allowance: $20,000 Total: $67,000 Reimbursable expenses Mileage at the current IRS rate Business/professional expenses: $1,000 Continuing Education: $1,000 Moving Costs: paid by FPC Board of Pensions Member + family: $ 24,455 Optional Coverages: dental Vacation: Four weeks including four Sundays 2 weeks/year including 2 Sundays, accumulative to 3 years

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY The unity of believers in Christ is reflected in the rich diversity of the Church’s membership. In Christ, by the power of the Spirit, God unites persons through baptism regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, disability, geography, or theological conviction. There is therefore, no place in the life of the Church for discrimination against any person. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) shall guarantee full participation and representation in its worship, governance, and emerging life to all persons or groups within its membership. No member shall be denied participation or representation for any reason other than stated in this Constitution. (F-1.0403)

Presbytery of Great Rivers · Presbytery of Great Rivers June 9, 2015 March 10, 2015 Assembly...

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