Presbytery of New Covenant Stated Meeting

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Presbytery of New Covenant

Stated Meeting

Remembering Rev. Fred Rogers

March 20, 2020

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Table of Contents

Table of Motions/Omnibus Motion 2

Proposed Docket 3-4

Ordination Anniversaries 5

Church Anniversaries 5-6

Necrology 6-7

Report of the Stated Clerk for Administrative Process 8-10

Report of the Stated Clerk for Judicial Process 11

Finance 11-13

Committee on Ministry 14-19

Committee on Preparation for Ministry 19

General Council 20

Congregational Resourcing Team 21

Evangelism and Church Growth 22

Outreach includes Universal Grant Application 22-24

Nominating 25

Presbytery Publications 25

Table of Motions

1. Omnibus Motion: To approve the minutes from the stated meeting of November 21, 2020.

2. Omnibus Motion: To approve the minutes from the called meeting of January 20, 2021.

3. From Finance: To approve the proposed budget for the presbytery for 2021.

4. From Nominating: To approve the slate of candidates whose names are on page (??).

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Proposed Docket

We will convene at 10:00 AM.

Call to Order/Worship Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

One: We gather today to worship and to work.

All: Let us glorify God in all we do.

One: We gather today to meet and greet each other.


One: We gather today to support and encourage each other.


Song – “Thank You for Being You” (video)

Rev. Fred Rogers was born on March 20, 1928. He was a Minister Member of Pittsburgh Presbytery where his

work with children in the early days of television programming was recognized as a valuable contribution to the

world. We celebrate Mr. Rogers today.

Opening Prayer Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

*Declaration of a Quorum, Adoption of the Docket, Introductions, Omnibus Motion – Stated Clerk for

Administrative Process – Lynn Hargrove

*Report on Disciplinary Action – Stated Clerk for Judicial Process – John Lemen

Prayer of Confession Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

Holy and merciful God, in your presence we confess our sinfulness, our shortcomings,

And our offenses against you. You alone know how often we have sinned,

In wandering from your ways, in wasting your gifts, in forgetting your love.

Have mercy on us, O Lord.

Forgive our sins, and help us to live in your light,

And walk in your ways, for the sake of Jesus Christ our Savior.

And hear us as we continue in the silence …

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Assurance of Grace Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

Sermon – Kathryn Threadgill, Office of Theology and Worship, Presbyterian Mission Agency

Sermon Response Breakout Rooms

“What opportunities are there in your community to share the good news? Where do you find hope?”

*Vital Congregations Rev. Rachel Young

*Nominations Rev. Matt Morse

Offering – Youth Ministry Aaron Seay, Coordinator

*Approve the Budget RE Cathy Bliton, Treasurer

*Invitation to Apply for Grants RE Cathy Bliton, Treasurer

Minute for Mission - Presbyterian Historical Society David Staniunas

Prayers of the People Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

Necrology – “For All the Saints”

The Communion Revs. Rachel and Josh Young

Benediction/Adjournment Moderator Rev. Ted Foote

*Notes business items

PREACHING TODAY

Rev. Dr. Kathryn Threadgill is the Director for Vital Congregation for the Presbyterian Church (USA). She obtained

her B.A. from Montreat College, PC(USA) where she majored in Bible and Religion with a concentration in Youth

Ministry. Kathryn studied at Columbia Theological Seminary for both her Masters of Divinity and her Doctorate

of Educational Ministries degrees. As a minister of the Word and Sacraments, Kathryn has served churches in

Greensboro, NC. and Mobile, Alabama. She is the beloved daughter of Ollie Rix and Dorothy Threadgill, and has

twelve siblings from all over the world.

TODAY’S OFFERING

Our offering today goes to our presbytery’s Youth Ministries, in particular towards our Presbytery Youth

Connection Council (PYCC) who designs the annual Conclaves weekends. Online contributions can be made here

by choosing the Presbytery Meeting Offering tab: https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-

bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=wWsk24ZWJSTZKsGd1RMKlg0BDvsSG3VIWQCPJNNxD8upkiY7JlDavDsozUE7KG0n

Fx2NSo8LdUKGuGuF396vbYYQgidYztGbT9EdrKodrraXHubq5Z7ap5JVmPErc4ZeYHCKCZhESjGNQmZ5B-

6dx3oXnCsieUfVboVDTFG9w_s=&ver=3

https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=wWsk24ZWJSTZKsGd1RMKlg0BDvsSG3VIWQCPJNNxD8upkiY7JlDavDsozUE7KG0nFx2NSo8LdUKGuGuF396vbYYQgidYztGbT9EdrKodrraXHubq5Z7ap5JVmPErc4ZeYHCKCZhESjGNQmZ5B-6dx3oXnCsieUfVboVDTFG9w_s=&ver=3




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Ordination Anniversaries

Ray Gearing 70 years

Phin Washer 65 years

David Barnes 60 years

Calvin Koomey 60 years

Charles Teykl 60 years

Troy Jarvis 55 years

Steve Kerr 55 years

George Klett 55 years

John Linton 55 years

Samuel Hsu 50 years

Lonnie Duvall 45 years

Abraham Van Sligtenhorst 45 years

Margaret Ferguson 40 years

Jacob George 40 years

Gregory Headington 40 years

Tomas Spath 40 years

Katrina Pennington 35 years

Viet Ho 30 years

J. Instiful, Jr. 30 years

John Melsness 30 years

Rose Niles 30 years

John Wurster 30 years

Margaret Desmond 25 years

Rhonda Detenbeck 25 years

Scott Harbison 25 years

Ann Marie Quigley Swanson 25 years

Young “Edward” Song 25 years

Dan Walker 25 years

Ting Yin Lee 25 years

Deborah Cenko 20 years

Becky Downs 20 years

David Leard 20 years

Edward Wolf 20 years

Sharon Gazaway 15 years

Linda Herron 15 years

Gayle Perkins 15 years

Tom Sharon 15 years

Paul Alexander 10 years

Wilma Harris 10 years

Paul Kucera 10 years

Michael Gable 1 year

Josh Young 1 year

Church Anniversaries

First, Navasota 155 years

First, Angleton 125 years

First, Texas City 80 years

Trinity, Port Neches 70 years

Faith, Pasadena 65 years

St John’s, Houston 65 years

First, Dickinson 65 years

Community of the Servant Savior, Houston

55 years

Juan Marcos, Houston 55 years

St. Thomas, Houston 55 years

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Woodlands Community, Woodlands 40 years

First, Tomball 35 years

San Pablo + Trinity 30 years

ChristChurch, Bellaire 15 years (after merger)

Pathways Church of Houston 10 years

Necrology

Ministers of Word and Sacrament

Donald W. Davidson June 30, 2020

Victor Hugo Dindot May 11, 2020

M. Douglas Harper October 10, 2020

Warren H. Johnson June 29, 2020

Joseph E. Delgatto December 11, 2020

Elders, Deacons, Trustees

Atascocita

Enell Cooper February 14, 2020 Esther Crosby December 7, 2020

ChristChurch, Bellaire

Ann Reed March 6, 2020 Linda Dole August 5, 2020

First, Brazoria

Kathy Hyer September 8, 2020

Brenham

Bill Weir August 23, 2020

First, Galveston

Carolyn Urbani September 25, 2020 Jim Cantrell October 15, 2020

Clear Lake, Houston

Mary Jane Anderson July 29, 2020

Ann Fogelman Pulliam May 2, 2020

Ava Good December 5, 2020

Glenn Langford June 17, 2020

Glenn Mathis November 30, 2020

Don McCurdy October 9, 2020

Rees McFarlane January 24, 2020

Ginny Way June 15, 2020

Heights, Houston Madeline Delgatto December 4, 2020

Northwoods, Houston

Marcia Cole June 30, 2020 Bill Cowan January 12, 2020 Madline Reaves July 31, 2020 (Elder at Westminster, Houston) Bob Sloan January 27, 2020

Oaks, Houston

Sally Logsdon April 6, 2020

Pathways Church of Houston

Marilyn White Waterman June 24, 2020 Linda Gail Northern June 9, 2020

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Pines, Houston

H. Carter Robinson April 15, 2020 Harry W. Loose July 5, 2020 Jimmie G. Anderson November 3, 2020 Robert E. Templeton November 29, 2020

St. Andrew’s, Houston

Margaret Bremer Feb. 18, 2020 Fred Russell Sept. 5, 2020

St. Paul, Houston

Roger Judson April 20, 2020

St. Philip, Houston

Donna Host June 27, 2020 Paxton Williams February 8, 2020

First, Huntsville Ron Johnson February 26, 2020

Indian, Livingston

Deloris Johnson May 27, 2020

First, Navasota

Earl LaFontaine May 6, 2020

St. Paul’s, Needville

Tammy Moore March 31, 2020

Faith, Pasadena

Tommie Hinski December 8, 2020

First, Pasadena

George Yeargin August 6, 2020

First, Pearland

Paul "Skip" Leroy Jacobs, Jr. September 18, 2020

Trinity, Port Neches

Wilma Shahan February 26, 2020 Dixie Casey June 19, 2020 Jeff Felder III October 27, 2020 Larry Fuller December 17, 2020

First, Rosenberg

Henry Broom January 11, 2020 Diane Schuler no date given

First, Wharton

Coral “Ann” Gooden May 24, 2020 John McCain December 20, 2020 Larry Wind May 5, 2020 Woodlands Community, Woodlands Gordon Lentz May 9, 2020 Jim Hyndman August 24, 2020

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Report of the Stated Clerk for Administrative Process

All but one of our congregations submitted a statistical report for the year 2020. Thank you to our Clerks of

Session and others who compiled the information needed to complete this report which is submitted annually

to the Office of the General Assembly.

ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION FOR FORMOSAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Update Report for Stated Presbytery Meeting on March 20, 2021 This commission had been appointed at the presbytery meeting on March 18, 2017 to assume original jurisdiction of the existing session at Formosan Presbyterian Church. It worked with the congregation to uncover and understand the longstanding root causes of the systemic and destructive conflict that had been masked by more visible disagreements and concerns. The process had not been hurried, and the easy route (providing a quick-fix solution) had not been taken, because neither action would have resolved the deeper issues. Throughout the process, the congregation had been given time and encouragement to be self-reflective and initiate thoughtful transformative change. Since the commission’s last report (November 2020), the final step towards the establishment of a new Session has taken place; the elders-elect and deacons-elect have been ordained and installed. Two members of the commission offered to attend the first three or four session meetings, to observe and offer guidance as needed. To date, their offer has not been taken up. The commission has begun preparation of its final report, for inclusion in the packet for the July 2021 Stated Presbytery meeting. Like so many congregations that switched to online services (and may have reopened with greatly reduced attendance), Formosan is experiencing reduced giving and strained finances, and we ask for special prayers regarding these aspects of their witness and ministry. The new Session is also having to address burst water pipe damage from the recent freeze, and the development of a sink hole above a broken sewer line in their parking lot. Your prayers of encouragement and hope for the congregation, pastor, and new Session will be appreciated greatly. In Christ’s service, The Rev. Dr. Nora Fitch, St. Thomas PC, Houston (Moderator) Limin Hsu, RE, Grace Taiwan PC, Houston The Rev. Mark Plunkett, Heritage PC, Houston Janet Rainey, RE, New Hope PC, Katy The Rev. Tomás Spath, HR (Co-moderator)

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Presbytery New Covenant

Address 4803 San Felipe, Houston, TX 77056

Phone 713-526-2585 Fax 713-526-8814

Email [email protected]

Web Site www.pbyofnewcovenant.org

Membership

Prior Active Members 15440 Adjusted membership 15347

Gains Losses

Certificate 93 Certificate 77

Youth Professions 46 Deaths 266

Professions & Reaffirmations 107 Deleted for any Other Reason 515

Total Gains 246 Total Losses 858

Total Ending Active Members 14735

Baptisms Average Weekly Worship Attendance 3850

Presented by Others 34 Female Members 8637

At Confirmation 3 Friends of the Congregation 943

All Other 8 Ruling Elders on Session 652

Do you have Deacons? Yes / No 19 / 52

Age Distribution of Active Members People with Disabilities

25 & Under 2391 Hearing impairment 328

26 - 40 1541 Sight impairment 112

41 - 55 1692 Mobility impairment 333

56 - 70 2602 Other impairment 269

Over 70 3202

Total Age Distribution 11428

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Christian Education

Birth - 3 113 Grade 7 66

Age 4 71 Grade 8 80

Kindergarten 82 Grade 9 103

Grade 1 75 Grade 10 90



Grade 4 82 Young Adults 279

Grade 5 66 Over 25 1973

Grade 6 82 Teachers/Officers 409

Total Christian Education 3886

Racial Ethnic

Asian/Pacific Islander/South

Asian 2610 Native American/Alaska

Native/Indigenous 111

Black/African American/African 613 White 8500

Middle Eastern/North African 27 Multiracial 70

Hispanic/Latino-a 477

Total Racial Ethnic 12408

Financial Data

Annual Income 23,494,987 Mission Expenses 2,075,400

Annual Expenses 23,060,771 Personnel Expenses 10,868,259

Facilities Expenses 4,989,069

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Report of the Stated Clerk for Judicial Process

1. Disciplinary Case 2020-01 Presbytery of New Covenant v. The Rev. Andrew Joseph Gans: The Investigating Committee concluded its investigation, and reached a mutually agreed upon Alternative Form of Resolution (AFR) in mediation with the accused on February 1, 2021. The Permanent Judicial Commission met privately on February 2, 2021 and accepted the AFR, concluding the case. The censure, as delineated in the AFR, becomes effective upon its reading to the presbytery on March 20, 2021.

2. Remedial Case 2020-02 Ronald Stenzel v. Session of Pines Presbyterian Church: The presbytery’s Permanent Judicial Commission (PJC) determined on November 2, 2020 that the case

was dismissed, as read to the presbytery on November 21, 2020. On December 14, 2020 the

Complainant filed a notice of appeal to the Synod of the Sun PJC in accordance with BOO D-8.0200. The

record of PNC 2020-02 has been transmitted to the synod by the Presbytery of New Covenant Stated

Clerk for Judicial Process in accordance with BOO D-8.0303.

Finance

Motion: To approve the proposed budget for 2021. Budget Actual

Presbytery of New Covenant 01/01/20- 01/01/20- Proposed Summary of Proposed 2021 Budget 12/31/2020 12/31/2020 2021 Budget

Revenues

Benevolence Receipts

From Churches $349,337 $334,670 290,679

From MDPC $165,000 $165,000 55,000

From Individuals $2,400 $2,756 2,400

Per Capita for OGA $85,442 $96,192 77,377

Total Benevolence Receipts $602,179 $598,618 425,456

Other Income

Interest Income $12,000 $7,337 360

Misc. Income $ - $1,757 -

Rental Income $21,000 $13,031 15,000

Total Other Income $33,000 $22,125 $15,360

Total Revenues $635,179 $620,743 $440,816

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Expenses

General Council Expenses

Benevolences

Benevolences to OGA and Synod $10,000 $10,000 10,000

Per Capita for OGA $85,442 $95,392 77,377

Total Benevolences $95,442 $105,392 87,377

General Council

Audit Fees $10,000 $10,000 10,000

PJC $2,700 $2,050 3,200

Total General Council $12,700 $12,050 $13,200

Total General Council Expenses $108,142 $117,442 $100,577

Ministry Division Expenses

Committee on Ministries $350 $2,503 -

Communications $1,900 $12,511 9,500

Congregational Resourcing $17,000 $4,394 7,000

Resource Center $800 $222 400

Evangelism & Church Growth $ - $ - -

Outreach Ministries $31,500 $31,500 28,000

Total Ministries Division Expenses $51,550 $51,129 $44,900

Administrative Division Expenses

Finance $69,100 $71,921 68,500

Ops-Building Maintenance $23,200 $23,844 26,500

Ops-Equipment $20,900 $14,918 16,800

Ops-Income $(800) $(225) (400)

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Ops-Office Supply $4,500 $3,050 3,500

Ops-Postage $2,600 $3,093 2,600

Ops-Utilities $8,500 $10,598 9,600

Ecclesiastical Affairs $2,000 $ - -

Personnel $500 $ - 500

Compensation $322,940 $335,305 306,591

Benefits $146,603 $144,797 128,445

Professional Reimbursements $21,300 $8,828 9,300

Total Administrative Division Expenses $621,343 $616,129 $571,936

Total Expenses $781,035 $784,700 $717,413

Total Revenues Minus Total Expenses $(145,856) $(163,957) $(276,597)

Other Sources Of Cash In To Balance Budget

Note Payments $27,326 $ - -

PNC Share of Dismissed Churches $118,530 $ - $276,597 Net $ - $(163,957) $ -

Additional Financial Information

Gain on Sale of Property $ - $(91,151)

Funds from Dismissed Churches-Cash $ - $ -

Funds from Dismissed Churches-Note $ - $ -

Investment Income (Loss) $ - $1,051,026

Total Additional Income $ - $959,875

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Checking and Deposit Accounts $687,586

Investments with TPF $8,352,466

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents $9,040,052

Revised 03/15/21 #2

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Committee on Ministry

March 20, 2021

I. 2021 IRS Standard Rate for Mileage (Effective 1/1/21) $0.56 per mile II. Actions taken on behalf of Presbytery December, 2019 (actions approved by Moderator Ted Foote and/or Vice-Moderator RE Greg Feigh and sustained at the January 12, 2021 COM meeting):

• Granted permission for each of Houston, Woodforest, and Houston, Heights to elect PNCs

• Approved the request of the Atascocita Session for permission to hold a final retirement celebration reception for Jackie Hannan after Covid restrictions expire

• Dec 15: Approved MIF of First Presbyterian Church, Lufkin

• Dec 17: Approved Transfer of Johannes Poetschner to Presbytery of SE Illinois

• Dec18: Approved compensation package for Rev Tara Thompson (St Andrews, Beaumont)

January 12, 2021 meeting of COM 1. New Minister Member of Presbytery Pastoral Call between St Andrews Presbyterian Church, Beaumont and Rev. Tara Thompson, as Pastor, effective 3/15/21. COM validated compensation package December 18, 2020; sustained the examination of the Committee on Examinations on 1/9/21; COM sustained examination 1/12/21. Statement of Faith Follows COM Report.

Salary $47,500

Housing Allowance 35,000

Reimbursement of Self-Employment Contribution (SECA) (In excess line 3.g)

6,311.25

Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 1,500

Study Leave Allowance 2,500

Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks

Books/ professional dues 3,000

Board of Pensions dues 30,525

Other insurance 492.24

Ordained 8/21/05; transferring from Pittsburgh Presbytery. Formal Education: 5/05 MDiv. Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Hamilton, MA 5/12 BA, Psychology, University of North Florida, Jacksonville, FL 2. Subcommittee Chairs and Vice-Chairs were elected as follows Examinations: Rev. Hector Rivera-Velez, chair; RE Greg Feigh, vice-chair Calls and Contracts: RE John Woodhouse, chair; RE Forbes Baker, vice-chair Congregational Life: RE Johnna Cormier, chair; Rev Jim Gill, vice-chair Professional Life: Rev. Margaret Desmond, chair; Rev Callie Candee, vice-chair

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2. February 2, 2021 meeting of COM Validated Contracts and Calls: 1. Renewed Contract between Westminster, Galveston and Rev. G Todd Starnes-Williams effective January 1, 2021 for 1 year, part time (19 hours/week)

Salary $ 9645

Housing Allowance 16727


1966

Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 1800

Study Leave Allowance 850

Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks

Books/ professional expenses 375

Board of Pensions dues 3,117.18

2. Renewed contract between First, Tomball and Rev Robert Rush effective July 1, 2020 for 1 year, part-time (20 hours/week)

Salary $29161.68


bonus 1500



Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks

3. Approved Interim contract for John Hirling to serve as interim at Livingston, for 1 year beginning March 1, 2021.

Salary $ 15659



1997

Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate


Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks


Board of Pensions dues (NA—retired)

4. Approved stated supply contract between Lloyd Crosby and Pioneer Presbyterian Church (10 hrs/week), effective January 1, 2021

Salary $ 3,600

Housing Allowance 9,600

5. Approved call of Jonathan Murray and Covenant Presbyterian Church, College Station, effective January 1, 2021

Salary $ 32586



3640



Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks

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Board of Pensions dues (37%) 17,607

Other paid insurance

PCUSA retirement matching 4800

* For Jonathan and Caressa, BOP dues figured using clergy couple worksheet by BOP for insurance coverage

6. Approved call of Caressa Murray and Covenant Presbyterian Church, College Station (3/4 time), effective January 2021,

Salary $ 32586



3640



Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks


Board of Pensions dues* (12%) 5710

Other paid insurance* 1605

PCUSA retirement matching 4800

* For Jonathan and Caressa, BOP dues figured using clergy couple worksheet by BOP for insurance coverage 7. Appointed Bonnie Keith to serve as liaison for Woodforest Presbyterian Church PNC. 8. Approved a request by Grace Presbytery to grant Satoe Soga permission to labor in the bounds of New Covenant Presbytery during her probationary period in the Chaplaincy program at Methodist Hospital. 9. Granted permission for St Paul, Needville, to elect a PNC at their annual congregational meeting. March 2, 2021 meeting of COM 1. New Minister Member of Presbytery Minister at Large, Karen Estes, coming from Central Florida Presbytery; COM sustained the February 27, 2021 examination of the Exams sub-committee; Ordained June 20, 1993; M.Div. Columbia Theological Seminary, 1993. Vanderbilt University, BS, 1990 Statement of Faith follows COM report. 2. Validated Contracts and Calls: 1. Call between Heritage PC, Houston and Mark Plunkett, effective February 1, 2021

Salary 20000




Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks

Board of Pensions dues 17019

Other paid insurance 997

403(b)(9) 5000

2. Call between Bethel PC, West Columbia and Paul Kucera, effective January 1, 2021

Salary $ 36348

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2781



Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks



Reimbursement of Self-Employment Contribution (SECA) (up to 7.65%) 2781

3. Call between First PC, Sugar Land and Fred Seay, effective January 1, 2021

Salary $ 41036


Other direct compensation/reimbursement 3785


Study Leave Allowance

Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks



Other paid insurance 7440

4. Stated Supply Contract between First PC, Trinity and Dan Alexander, effective January 1, 2021

Salary $ 39



Vacation/sick leave (4 Sundays) 4 weeks

Other insurance/allowances 2610

5. Call between Katy New Hope and Brian Long, effective January 1, 2021

Salary and Housing $ 50033


3827



Study Leave 2 weeks

Vacation 4 weeks



Other paid insurance (Vision & dental) 1789

6. PNC Liaison appointed for FPC, Livingston: Jim Gill 7. Woodforest—approved serious contact 8. Approved the dissolution of the designated pastor call at the end of the designated term between Faith Presbyterian Church, Baytown and Timothy Marquez, effective February 28, 2021. 9. MIF changes approved for Katy Grand Lakes to allow PIFs from this presbytery through CLC 10. Approved the transfer TE Troy Jarvis (HR) to Grand Canyon effective 10/27/2020 11. Reported the death of TE Helen P Bailey, February 6, 2020.

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STATEMENTS OF FAITH Reverend Tara Thompson

God is One, but in His being, there are three Persons. Each Person of the Trinity gives glory to the other Persons and never acts independently or in opposition. All three Persons are involved in the work of salvation. The saving grace of the Son, Jesus, gives me access to the love of the Father and the communion of the Holy Spirit. The blood of Christ cleanses me, and the Holy Spirit transforms me. Through the Father’s giving of His Son and His Spirit, I am able to become the person He created me to be.

Salvation is the work of God who absolves me of my sins and attributes the righteousness of Jesus to me through faith alone. I am justified through faith in Jesus according to God’s gift of grace. This is the result of the substitutionary atonement of Christ.

I believe everyone who has truly accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior makes up the body of Christ, which is the Church. I believe the Church is called to be united in its faith and mission, with Christ as its Head. The marks of the Church are the Word of God and the sacraments of baptism and communion. I am to bring glory to God through my worship and by obeying His commands.

I have a mission as Christ’s ambassador to proclaim God’s Word to others. I am to be ready to give an account for the hope I have in Jesus. Furthermore, I have been entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation. This means taking seriously my responsibility to support people in the process of being restored to God. It requires helping people to be aware of their need for a Savior, but it also involves sharing in the maturation process which follows. These tasks are not accomplished solely by a select few or by a fixed means. Rather the ministry of reconciliation and instruction in the faith require the combined efforts of all members of the community of faith, the full range of diversity in gifts, flexibility, and faithfulness to God and to one another. Unity in the body of Christ commonly requires a ministry of reconciliation among individuals as well. I am to be separated from the sin that is in the world while also being salt and light to those who are in the world. Though written by men, the Bible is the inspired and authoritative Word of God. The Bible is Truth and does not change over time. It is always current and always relevant. This understanding of Scripture informs how I live out my faith. Since Scripture is God’s self-revelation, I can trust what it says and apply its teachings to my daily life and choices. Since Scripture is current and relevant, I trust it speaks to the issues affecting not only my life but also the lives of those around me. This trust allows me to have hope for the world and confidence in God. Rev. Karen Kay Estes

I believe in one triune, almighty God who created all that is in the universe and beyond. We come to know God in three persons: the Father who created and rules the universe; the Son who came to earth fully human and fully God to show us how to live, and in dying and rising drew us to himself so that we could be called forgiven children of God; and Holy Spirit who sustains us, is loose and at work in creation, and comes to live in our hearts.

I believe that God created humankind in God’s image to be in fellowship with God and care for God’s creation. We sinned and fell short of God’s image, but God continued to love us and call us back to faithfulness. God called us back through leaders and prophets, but we continued to pull away. Then, when we had wandered too far from God to ever come back, God came down to earth in Jesus Christ to draw us back, and died on the cross to pay for our sins. On Earth, Jesus brought good news to the poor, healed the sick, and comforted the captives. He served others and commanded us to serve in the same way.

I believe that the Bible is the living Word of God. In its pages we learn of God’s faithfulness in the past, the promises for our future, and with the help of the Holy Spirit we can find God’s living Word for us today. The Holy Spirit continues to guide people through the written and spoken Word to follow in Christ’s servant footsteps.

I believe in the sacrament of baptism. I believe that in baptizing our children, we show how God first reaches out to us before we are even able to respond. The waters of baptism show the cleansing and healing powers of God. This sacrament is a sign of our adoption into God’s family, the washing clean of our sins through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, and our death to sin and resurrection through Christ. I believe that the Holy Spirit is present in a special way in this sacrament.

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I believe in the sacrament of Communion where Jesus Christ is our host, and serves us as He served the disciples at the last supper. I believe that Jesus commanded us to eat and remember, so that we would never forget the pain and suffering of His sacrifice, or the ultimate joy of our being forgiven and sanctified, and having a place at the heavenly banquet.

I believe that God formed the church universal to act as the body of Christ in the world. All who believe in Jesus Christ, everywhere around the world are tied together by the Holy Spirit. Only together are we able to reflect the image of God and shine as a light to the hurting world. We are called together to serve, but also to uphold and up build each other in the faith. I believe that alone we may falter, but together we can better interpret God’s will for our lives and for creation.

I stand firmly in the reformed tradition trusting in the sovereignty of God, and awaiting Christ’s return and God’s Kingdom on Earth.

Committee on Preparation for Ministry

March 20, 2021

FOR YOUR INFORMATION:

1. Seven people are currently working through the Commissioned Ruling Elder process:

Mike Allison-Texas City, First

Lam Cao-Houston, Thien-An

Nancy Diaz-Houston, San Pablo+Trinity

Maria Gonzalez, Houston, Iglesia Latina

Norma Luz Gonzalez, Houston, Iglesia Latina

Isabela Conzuelo Mejia, Houston, Iglesia Latina

Italia Lorena Rivera-Houston, Iglesia Latina

2. Three Candidates and one Inquirer are under care of Presbytery

Matthew Beach-Galveston Westminster, Candidate

Rachel Wells Potts-Atascocita, Candidate

Rachel Watson-Houston St Stephen, Candidate

Johnie Wood-Houston Northwoods, Inquirer

3. The Committee on Preparation for Ministry has not had a need to meet since the August 22,

2020, meeting.

4. CPM meetings are scheduled, if needed, for March 27, April 24, June 26, August 28, September

25, and October 23.

Committee Members

Class of 2021- Selena Martin Brinegar, Rev Gregory Davis, Rev Pamela Morgan

Class of 2022- Rev Emily Beghin, Jamie Hannan, Rev Kristy Forbes Vits

Class of 2023- Bonnie Keith, and two unfilled positions in the Class of 2023.

Staff: Patricia Brantley

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General Council

1. Actions taken on behalf of the Presbytery:

a. Approval of the sale of the property located at 19655 West Road, Cypress, TX, (per the sales

contract) which is owned by Heritage Presbyterian Church. The legal description as listed on the

Harris County Appraisal District website is Res A Blk 1 Heritage Presbyterian Church, with an

additional address of 0 Greenhouse Road, Cypress, TX.

b. Approval of the sale of the property of the church located at 106 E State in Eagle Lake. The legal

description as listed on the sales contract is: Block 43, Lot 2, 3b, 4a Eagle Lake & Church.

c. Approval of the sale of the property Fondren DR, also known as Fondren-Fuqua. The legal

description as listed on the Fort Bend County Appraisal District website is 0280 J Lafayette, Tract X,

Acres 4.00.

d. Approval of a lease between Christ Presbyterian Church, located at 14630 White Heather Drive,

Houston, TX, and Jase DePaul Gautreaux DBA Houston Funeral Center, for a period of 84 months

beginning not before December 1, 2020. The terms of the lease call for the tenant to make all of the

building repairs, and the congregation will continue to use the worship space on Sunday’s.

e. Approved a resolution for the presbytery to be able to operate financially until a new budget is

approved.

2. For information:

a. As the General Council is the visioning body of the Presbytery, they have begun a process to see if

the vision and mission statements are still applicable, or if they might be updated to reflect the

church of the 21st century.

Our Vision:  Growing congregations that passionately engage their community to make disciples. Our Mission:   Confessing Jesus Christ as Lord Connecting one another in ministry

b. The Presbyterians Today magazine requested an article be written about the Transgender Inclusion Policy that was passed by the Presbytery at a called meeting on January 20. Becky Downs wrote the article which will be appearing in a future issue of the magazine.

c. Rev. Paul Kucera (West Columbia, Bethel) was elected to serve as the Vice Moderator of the General Council.

Members of the General Council 2021: Rev. Becky Downs, RE Ron Everett, Rev. Paul Kucera 2022: RE Ken Telg (2 vacancies) 2023: RE Jay Bole, RE Michael McCracken, Rev. Emilee Whitehurst

By Virtue of Office: RE Melissa Nelson, RE George James, Rev. Ted Foote, RE Ed Brasher, RE Greg Feigh, Rev. David Jones

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Congregational Resourcing Team The Congregational Resourcing Team (CRT) strives to focus on recording educational presentations for the Presbytery’s YouTube Channel. To access the presbytery’s YouTube channel, you can go to www.pbyofnewcovenant.org, click on Resources, and scroll down to Pby YouTube Channel or go to YouTube and search for New Covenant Presbytery. We also encourage churches to use the online resources provided by the PC(USA) to train, support, and empower officers and other leaders in your churches at their EQUIP site (https://equip.pcusa.org). We also encourage you to read about this and other ways the PC(USA) gives opportunities for leaders to be trained and grown in your congregations and the wider church in the news about our theme of “Year of Leader Formation.” If you have any questions, if you would like to be connected with these or other resources regarding Christian education, Presbyterian Women, mental health, earth care, youth, or leadership development, or have resources to share, please don’t hesitate to email me at [email protected]. Megan Hansen Chair, Congregational Resourcing Team

Fresh Elastic for Stretched Out Educators Fresh Elastic for Stretched Out Educators continues to support those involved with faith formation. They will have another gathering in May, so stay tuned for those details. Anne Wilson

Youth Ministry Due to the ongoing pandemic, PYCC decided to go forward with the Youth Conclaves, but to condense it to one weekend, April 9-11 (the weekend after Easter weekend), and to do a hybrid of online and in-person gathering, keeping masking, social distancing, and other precautions in place. For registration information, please email Aaron Seay at [email protected], if you have not already done so. We are looking at local options for summer youth mission opportunities rather than a full mission trip. Those opportunities will be shared with churches and through social media as they are finalized. The young adult anti-racism discussion and book study has had a strong core group of 6 people, and has had important conversations. We hope to offer more discussion groups and young adult opportunities in the future. Aaron Seay, Youth Ministry Coordinator

Earth Care Congregations Report for the March 2021 Presbytery Meeting

The main activity for our team has been a weekly study of the book “Climate Church, Climate World” by Jim

Antal. The study will wrap up on April 4th with a Q&A session with the author.

• Cinda Hitchcock has developed a video to be presented at a Presbytery Meeting or any individual congregation on how to start an Earth Care Team at your church.

• Bill Bray with the Citizen Climate Lobby has developed a virtual Sunday School class on using “Enroads”, a Climate Change Solution Simulator.

If you are interested in any of these activities or want more information on becoming an Earth Care

congregation, please contact [email protected].

http://www.pbyofnewcovenant.org/

https://equip.pcusa.org/

https://www.pcusa.org/news/2020/12/8/2021-be-year-leader-formation/

mailto:[email protected]



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Evangelism and Church Growth

Outreach

The Presbytery of New Covenant has been blessed over the years to be able to offer grants for projects in our

congregations and other organizations. There are five different grants available.

Vision Initiative – the focus is on growing the membership of the presbytery through church redevelopment,

new church development, outreach to those who do not attend worship on a regular basis., or other approaches

consistent with the mission of the presbytery. Vision Initiative grant applicants are generally expected to raise

at least half of the cost of the project.

Lynn Johnson Social Justice – the focus is on social justice issues, particularly for issues concerning equality and

inclusion of all persons regardless of sexual orientation. The maximum grant is $2000.

Outreach – projects should passionately engage and support local and global mission efforts in order to be God’s

redemption to a hurting world, and are aimed at helping people outside the applicant’s congregation. The

maximum grant is $2000.

Peacemaking – projects should seek to bring people of diverse races, cultures, ethnicities, or religions closer

together, and could address environmental concerns, arms control, and gun safety. The maximum grant is

$2000.

Elder Care – the focus is on providing care for the elderly and senior citizens. The maximum grant is $1000.

The Universal Grant Application follows in these meeting materials, or is found here:

http://www.pbyofnewcovenant.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=45:future-

story&catid=35:grant-information-and-application&Itemid=174

Each project should have its own application completed by April 30. Please submit your completed grant

application to Forbes Baker [email protected] Funds will be awarded by June 30.

http://www.pbyofnewcovenant.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=45:future-story&catid=35:grant-information-and-application&Itemid=174

http://www.pbyofnewcovenant.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=45:future-story&catid=35:grant-information-and-application&Itemid=174


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Presbytery of New Covenant Universal Grant Application Please type your application.

Grant Source: Please read the purpose/qualifications of the grant carefully, then select only one of the 5 grant categories below by placing an X in the box. Fill out the grant application form completely and accurately. Use N/A or none in those blanks that do not apply to your project. An applicant may apply for multiple grants, but separate forms are required for each project request. A grant request must be approved by the applicant’s session or governing board prior to submission.

⬜ Vision Initiative: Priority is given to projects that increase the overall membership of New Covenant Presbytery. The increase may be the result of new church development, redevelopment of established churches, general outreach to unchurched individuals or other approaches consistent with the mission of the Presbytery. PLEASE NOTE: Vision Initiative grant applicants will generally be expected to raise at least half the cost of the grant-supported activity, with grant funds providing the balance.

⬜ Lynn Johnson Social Justice: Funds are to be used for social justice issues, particularly for issues concerning equality and inclusion of all persons regardless of sexual orientation. Maximum grant is $2000.

⬜ Outreach: Projects should passionately engage and support local and global mission efforts in order to be God’s redemption to a hurting world. These projects should be aimed at helping people outside the applicant’s congregation. Maximum grant is $2000.

⬜ Peacemaking: Peacemaking activity can take varied forms, but generally seeks to bring people of diverse races, cultures, ethnicities, or religions closer together. Projects might include environmental concerns, arms control, and gun safety. Maximum grant is $2000.

⬜ Elder Care: Projects should provide care for the elderly and senior citizens. Maximum grant is $1000.

Guidelines:

Title of Project: _____________________________________________________________________________________

Organization Name:__________________________________________________________________________________ Organization Relationship to Presbytery: _________________________________________________________________ Organization Address: ________________________________________________________________________________ Organization Telephone:_____________________________________FAX:_____________________________________ Name of Principal Contact: ____________________________________________________________________________ Email Address of Principal Contact: _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone of Principal Contact: ________________________________________________________________________ Description of Organization: ___________________________________________________________________________ Total Cost of Project: $_______________________________________________________________________________ Amount of Grant for which you are applying: $____________________________________________________________ What are the other sources of funding? __________________________________________________________________ (For Vision Initiative Grants, certification of other funding sources may be required.) Date of approval by Session or Board:___________________________________________________________________ When are the funds needed to implement the project? _____________________________________________________

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Has this organization applied for a grant in the past? ____ If yes, from what grant source were funds awarded, and when? ______________________________________________

PLEASE RESPOND TO THE QUESTIONS BELOW IN A SEPARATE DOCUMENT

1. General Description of Activity for Grant including:

a. a description of the project

b. project budget. This should be for the total project, broken down with as much detail as possible

c. the target population to be reached

d. the desired outcome - please provide measurable outcomes if possible

e. names of those who will be involved in administering or otherwise carrying out the work of the project or program. 2. Explain how the project meets the grant guidelines for the grant source selected on page one. 3. Explain how the project fits with any of the applicable Six Themes of the Presbytery listed below:

a. Free flowing and extensive communication between congregations and among congregations and Presbytery.

b. Extensive and year-round leadership development opportunities for Teaching Elders, Ruling Elders, church staff, and congregations in general.

c. Using electronic collaboration and communication tools so that congregations and Presbytery can interact with one another without the need for extensive travel.

d. Extensive and year-round opportunities to engage in service, mission, and evangelism. We want to reach out, to minister, to feed, to clothe, to “you name it.”

e. Empowering the Presbytery to do our work closer to our congregations.

f. Emphasizing the “Good News” of the PC(USA) and our Presbytery so we can communicate the “Good News” to our communities.

4. If the project seeks funding for construction of permanent facilities at the applicant organization’s facility (e.g. church), how will these facilities be used for other ongoing mission and outreach operations of the organization? I 5. How will the success of the project be measured (please be as quantitative as possible)? Printed Name of Authorized Signer: _______________________________________________________________ Signature and Date: ____________________________________________________________________________ Date sent: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Please confirm that your application has been received.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE RECEIVED FROM JANUARY 1 THROUGH APRIL 30. PLEASE SEND ELECTRONICALLY TO FORBES

BAKER ([email protected])

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PROJECT SHOULD BE COMPLETED BY JUNE 30 OF THE FOLLOWING CALENDAR YEAR. IF THE

PROJECT IS NOT COMPLETED BY THE DEADLINE, PLEASE SUBMIT AN INTERIM PROGRESS REPORT. ANY FUNDS NOT USED

FOR THE PURPOSE DESCRIBED IN THE APPLICATION SHOULD BE RETURNED TO THE PRESBYTERY. PROJECT COMPLETION

REPORTS REGARDING THE USE OF THE GRANT FUNDS ARE DUE BY FEBRUARY 15 OF THE FOLLOWING YEAR. REPORTS

SHOULD BE SENT TO FORBES BAKER ([email protected]).

REVISED NOVEMBER 14, 2019



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Nominating Committee

March 21, 2021 Motion: to approve the election of the following nominees to serve on committees of the presbytery: Committee on Ministry (COM) – 2021 Vice Moderator – Rev. Patricia Clark (HR) COM/Calls and Contracts – 2021 – Rev. Ed Wolf (Galveston, First) COM/Examinations – 2023 – RE Sharon Templeman (Westminster, Nacogdoches) Committee on Preparation for Ministry 2023 – RE Susan Wittjen (Baytown, Faith) 2023 – Rev. Steve Oglesbee (Houston, Clear Lake) Evangelism and Church Growth 2023 – Rev. David Puig (Houston, Northwoods) 2023 – Rev. Ego Mba (At Large) General Council 2022 – Rev. Kallie Pitcock (Houston, St. Philip) Outreach – 2023 – RE Martha Carol Giese (Waverly)

Presbytery Publications

Tuesday Connect

Do you receive Tuesday Connect, our weekly email newsletter? Contact Patricia Brantley to subscribe:

[email protected]

Submissions can be sent to Lynn Hargrove at [email protected]

Connections Connections is the presbytery's bimonthly newsletter. In order to be better stewards of our environment and to save costs, Connections is sent via email, and posted to the presbytery’s website. If you prefer to receive it in print or to update your email address, please contact Patricia Brantley, Circulation Manager, at [email protected] or 713-526-2585, ext. 101.

Our publications staff is Lynn Hargrove, Editor, Carrie Walker, Coordinator for Conference and Graphics, Patricia

Brantley, Circulation Manager, and reporters from all over the presbytery and beyond!




tel:713-526-2585%2C%20ext.%20101

Presbytery of New Covenant Stated Meeting

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