SEVENTY-THIRD STATED SESSIONOF

THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMESOctober 17, 2009

Hosted by Orange Presbyterian ChurchOrange, VA

The Seventy-Third Session of the Presbytery of the James was hosted by Orange Presbyterian Church, Orange, VA at 9:00 AM, Saturday, October 17, 2009.

Rev. John D. Storey, Moderator, called the meeting to order at 9:00 AM. Rev. Denise Hall welcomed the presbytery. She shared words of hospitality to make the Presbytery’s visit more comfortable. A time of introduction of first time Elders and visitors attending presbytery for the first time was provided as well as introduction of transferring Ministers and changes in ministry.

Presbytery was led in worship by Rev. Steven Good, Associate Pastor, Tuckahoe Church. He was assisted by Rev. Denise Hall, Orange Church, and Rev. John Turner, Member at Large. His sermon title was: “Embodying the Eucharist,” Scripture: Romans 8:12-25 and Matthew 13:24-30. Worship included the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper and the reading of the Necrology.

ENROLLMENTThe Stated Clerk declared that a quorum was present. Of the 232 Minister members 101 registered; of the 232 Elder commissioners eligible to attend 115 registered, of the 113 congregations of the Presbytery of the James 67 registered. There were also 3 people from various boards and committees, 1 Certified Educator/Elder Educators, and 23 registered visitors.

MINISTER COMMISSIONERS – Appendix II

ELDER COMMISSIONERS – Appendix III

Following worship that included Communion and a brief recess, Moderator Storey called upon Rev. John Turner for the adoption of the docket. The docket was approved.

REPORT OF THE STATED CLERKH. Carson Rhyne, Jr. reporting

I. NOMINATIONSA. Temporary Clerks District 7: Dick Mahlmann

District 8: Jerome BennettDistrict 9: Fred Rose

B. Courtesy Committee Stated Clerk

II. COMMUNICATIONSA. All readers of presbytery minutes for the June 2009 Stated Meeting

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have given approval. Copies are at the Stated Clerk’s desk or will be e-mailed to people who request them. Commissioners from Districts 7, 8 & 9 will be asked to read minutes of this meeting.

B. The Stated Clerk is maintaining a list of program groups, affinity groups, orspecial interest groups in the presbytery. To date, the Stated Clerk is aware of these groups/organizations:

Presbyterian Women: Evalyn Page, ModeratorPresbyterian Men: Stan Huie, ModeratorBlack Caucus: Joseph Young, ModeratorCovenant Network: Stephen Pfleiderer, ModeratorYouth Council: Suzanne Huffine, Moderator; Erin Davidson, Coordinator, Todd Davidson, Vice-Coordinator.Clergy and Laity United: Carl Matthews, President,

If there are other groups or organizations with leadership and regular meetings, please contact the Stated Clerk to have them included in the listing.

C. The Annual Committee on Representation report was submitted to the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic in June, 2009. (pages 5 - 8)

D. There is now one invitation for presbytery meetings in 2010. We still need invitations for the February and June meeting. The Stated Clerk, therefore, cannot announce a meeting place for the February 20, 2010, Presbytery meeting.

E. The Stated Clerk announces that an Investigative Committee has been formed due to an allegation against a minister member of the Presbytery. This Committee was formed in accordance with Standing Rules of the Presbytery whereby the Moderator, Immediate Past Moderator, and the Stated Clerk may appoint Investigative Committees between meetings of the presbytery.

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III. COMMISSION REPORTS:

A. THE COMMISSION OF THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMESAPPOINTED TO ORDAIN Nancy C. Essig as Pastor, Burkeville Church, met on August 30, 2009 at 3:00 PM at Westminster Church, Charlottesville, Charlottesville, VA.

A quorum was present consisting of the following:

MINISTERS: Jim Boher, ModeratorJane Govan, Prayer of the DayBeverly Bullock, Prayer at Ordination

ELDERS: Joe Juel (Westminster, Charlottesville), Charge to CongregationMartha Rollins (First Church, Richmond), First ReadingMarshall Meggansin (Burkeville), Second Reading

Visiting Guest: Rev. Rebecca Weaver, SermonJohn Dickinson

Pursuant to the assignment of Presbytery and the provisions of W-4.4000 of THE BOOK OF ORDER, Nancy C. Essig was ordained as Pastor, Burkeville Church, Burkeville, VA.

B. THE COMMISSION OF THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES APPOINTED TO ORDAIN AND INSTALL Katherine Todd Nguyen as Assistant Director, Camp Hanover, met on September 6 at 6:30 PM at Camp Hanover (Knox Wood Lodge), Mechanicsville, VA.

A quorum was present consisting of the following:

MINISTERS: Rev. Denise Hall, ModeratorRev. Beverly Bullock. SermonRev. Nancy Ferguson, Preside at the Table

ELDERS: Phil Coltrain (Grace Covenant), Old Testament ReadingGary Smith (Bon Air), Prayer of Confession/Assurance of PardonGlenna Finnicum (Ginter Park), Special Music

Visiting Guest: Robert Pryor, Charge to Congregation/Charge to Minister

Pursuant to the assignment of Presbytery and the provisions of W-4.4000 of THE BOOK OF ORDER, Katherine Todd Nguyen was ordained and installed as Assistant Director, Camp Hanover, Mechanicsville, VA.

C. THE COMMISSION OF THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES APPOINTED TO INSTALL Nancy C. Essig as Pastor, Burkeville Church, met on September 20, 2009 at 4:00 PM at Burkeville Church, Burkeville, VA.

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A quorum was present consisting of the following:

MINISTERS: Rev. Kenneth Davis, Moderator, Constitutional Questions, Charge to Pastor

Rev. Rodney Spencer, Charge to CongregationRev. Sandra Libhart, Call to Worship and Prayer

ELDERS: Shawn Haney, (Burkeville), Constitutional Questions to CongregationNancy Rice (Westminster, Charlottesville), Commission memberMary Liz Carter, (Blackstone), Scripture Readings

Visiting Guest: Rev. Carson Rhyne, General Presbyter, Presbytery of James, Sermon

Rev. Charles Clubb, Installation PrayerKaylee Bennett (Burkeville) Opening Prayer

Pursuant to the assignment of Presbytery and the provisions of W-4.4000 of THE BOOK OF ORDER, Nancy C. Essig was installed as Pastor, Burkeville Church, Burkeville, VA.

D. THE COMMISSION OF THE PRESBYTERY OF THE JAMES APPOINTED TO ORDAIN Alexander Lightfoot Lang as Associate Pastor, met on June 27 at 11:40 AM at Fredericksburg Church, Fredericksburg, VA.

A quorum was present consisting of the following:

MINISTERS: Rev. Howard C. Leming, ModeratorRev. Carol C. Fisher, Prayers of the PeopleRev. Denise Hall, Prayer of OrdinationRev. Allen H. Fisher, Jr., Charge to the Newly Ordained, clerk

ELDERS: Rebecca S. Ford (Campbell Memorial), Epistle lesson and Prayer of Dedication for the OfferingJae Lee Russo (Praise the Lord), Prayer for Illumination and PsalterJennifer Rowe (Fredericksburg), Call to Worship, Opening Prayer, Prayer of Confession and Pardon

Visiting Guest: Rev. Elizabeth M. Michael, New Hope Presbytery, enrolled as a corresponding member of the commissionAlexander Lang, Presbytery of the James, Candidate

E. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSIONS1. GREGORY MEMORIAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH – No report2. VICTORIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (see pages 9 - 13)3. TAPPAHANNOCK COMMISSION – No report

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IV. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS WERE APPROVED:A. Minutes for the June 16, 2009, stated meeting and the September 1, 2009, called

meeting.B. Action at the June, 2009, presbytery meeting of appointing a Special Administrative

Review Committee rescinded

V. THE STATED CLERK MAKES NO RECOMMENDATIONS

2009 Committee on Representation Report

This form is used to assist the Presbytery Committee on Representation in gathering information regarding its presbytery which will be reported to the Synod and to the General Assembly. It should be signed by the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery upon completion. This report is sufficient in length, so additional pages should not be attached.

Name of Presbytery The James

Name, address, and telephone number of Presbytery Committee on Representation Moderator:

Name Dwight Clark

Address 6037 Ironworks Ct

Mechanicsville, VA 23111 Telephone 779-2247

Presbytery COR Moderator’s term beginning 2005 ending 2008

Do you have a Presbytery COR as required by the Book of Order? Yes X No

PRESBYTERY COR MEMBERSHIPMembership Tota

lA AA H NA M

EC D Y YA A SA

Male ClergyFemale Clergy 1 1 1

Total 1 1 1

Male Laity 2 1 1 1 1Female Laity 2 1 1 1 1

Total 4 1 1 2 1 2 1

Grand Total 5 1 1 3 1 3 1

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KEY: A-Asian, AA-African American, H-Hispanic, NA-Native American, ME-Middle Eastern, C-Caucasian, D-Differently Abled

Y (Youth) – 25 and under A (Adults) - 36-64YA (Young Adults) – 26-35 SA (Senior Adults) – 65 and aboveHow often does your Presbytery COR meet? Annually

Are these meetings: (Circle One) Face-to Face Conference Calls

How often does the committee make a report to the Presbytery? Annually

What form does the report take: (Circle One)Written Oral Both

PRESBYTERY COMMITTEE ON REPRESENTATION - 2008NO

Work Unit

MC ML

FC FL A AA

H NA

ME

W D Y YA

A SA

1 Officers of the Presbytery

1 1 2 2

2 Presbytery Council

5 2 1 2 1 9 7 3

3 Presbytery Nominating Committee

3 2 1 5 1 10

7 4

4 Presbytery Permanent Judicial Commission

3 3 1 2 9 4 5

5 Commissioners to GA in 2008

4 2 3 1 8 1 6 2

On each line put one of your Synod committees, commissioners, boards, councils and/or cabinets.(Because the Synod COR was listed on the previous page, it is not listed on this form).

Key: A-Asian, AA-African American, H-Hispanic, NA-Native American, ME-Middle Eastern,W-White, D-Person with Disability

Y (Youth)-25 and under A (Adults) - 36-55YA (Young Adults) - 26-35 SA (Senior Adults) - 56 and up

MC-Male Clergy FC-Female ClergyML-Male Laity FL-Female Laity

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QUESTIONNAIRE

1. What were your goals for the year? (List Two)

a. To be inclusive

b.

2. How well were these achieved? 4 (On a scale of 1-5, with 5 complete achievement)

3. What have been the joys and satisfactions of your work during this past year? (No more than three lines)

4. Which of the following statements are true concerning the relationship between your Presbytery COR and your Presbytery Nominating Committee? (Check all that apply)

At least one member of the Presbytery Nominating Committee is also amember of the Presbytery COR.

At least one member of the Presbytery COR is an observer at the PresbyteryNominating Committee meetings.

X Your Presbytery COR meets with the Nominating Committee.How often? Annually

5. To what degree has the work of the COR increased diversity among the leadership ofthe Presbytery committees? (Circle One)

Not At All Somewhat To A Great Extent

6. Has your Presbytery exempted itself from having a COR under the provisions ofG-9.0106? If so, when? No

7.What have been the disappointments and frustrations of your work during this past year?

Nothing to do for COR

8. Is there anything you would like to tell us that we have not asked?

Why do we continue to have COR?

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Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. We give God thanks for your work as we strive to uncover the hidden and unused talent of all of God's people.

Report Submitted by: H Carson Rhyne (Please Print) (Signature)

Phone Number 804-262-2074

The Presbytery of The James has heard and received a report, not limited to this document, of the Committee on Representation on 10/18/08 at Lord Jesus Korean Presbyterian Church (location).

Name of the Stated Clerk: H Carson Rhyne (Please Print) (Signature)

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REPORT OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION OF

THE VICTORIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TO

THE OCTOBER MEETING OF PRESBYTERY

At the October 18, 2008 Stated Meeting of the Presbytery, the Presbytery appointed an

Administrative Commission for the Victoria church in response to the Victoria Church’s request

for dismissal to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) and gave the Commission the

direction “to present to the Presbytery of the James at a Called or Stated Meeting the proposal

and the steps to accomplish the dismissal of the Victoria Presbyterian Church to the EPC or other

appropriate denomination,” “if the way be clear and provided all Book of Order requirements

(be) satisfied.” (Parenthesis added). In addition the Presbytery empowered the Administrative

Commission to assume Original Jurisdiction of the Session, to dissolve the Session and to

assume the function of the Session of the Victoria Presbyterian Church, if necessary, to

accomplish the task assigned.

The Administrative Commission began work immediately and determined that neither

reconciliation nor withdrawal of the church’s declared intent to be dismissed were possible.

Accordingly, after the Church met the formalities required in the Book of Order for dismissal,

the Administrative Commission recommended to the Presbytery at its February 21, 2009 meeting

and the Presbytery approved that:

1. The Request of the Victoria Church for dismissal be found to be in order under G-

11.0103i.

2. The Request be granted under G-11.0103i under certain terms and conditions (not

enumerated here).

3. The issue of any transfer of the ownership of the real property was to be reserved for

future consideration and decision by the Presbytery.

4. A lease could be used regarding the real property under certain terms and conditions,

including provisions for maintenance, insurance and upkeep during the period of

transition.

Over the course of the next two months, the Session of the Victoria Church agreed to and

did each of the terms and conditions adopted by Presbytery including the transfer of members

not wanting to move to the EPC, the completion of the necessary documents for dismissal to the

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EPC, the turnover and safeguarding of the original records of the church (Session and

Congregational Minutes) the preservation and retention of the church’s personal property, and

the use of a lease to provide interim responsibility for the real property of the church. It

appeared that an orderly transition was taking place, until the actual form of the lease was

presented. Several minor changes were requested and agreed to. In addition, the church asked

for language that said by signing the lease, the church was not waiving any rights it had in the

real property. The non-waiver language requested was not objected to by the Administrative

Commission, because the Presbytery had specifically reserved the real property issue for

decision at a later date. The requested language was added but Session still would not sign the

lease. Instead, the Session sought to enhance the language concerning its non waiver, which in

essence had the Presbytery recognizing an ownership right in the real property in the church

itself, and which, if accepted, would have decided the policy issue the Presbytery had reserved

for later consideration.

With the passage of several months in which the Administrative Commission and the

Victoria Church could not amicably resolve the differences in the language sought, the

Administrative Commission on September 17, 2009 assumed Original Jurisdiction of the

Victoria Session, dissolved the sitting Session and assumed the functions of the Session acting

under the authorization of the Presbytery on October 18, 2008 to so act, if necessary. The

Administrative Commission concluded it was necessary to act to move the process forward,

especially since the Session had approved each of the conditions precedent to dismissal,

including the non waiver intent expressed in the Lease.

Following the action of the Administrative Commission in invoking Original Jurisdiction,

the newly constituted Session of the Victoria Presbyterian Church, at a Called Meeting, approved

the Lease and authorized the Moderator to sign it on behalf of the Church The Session also

directed the Moderator to move forward with filing the Petition of the church to be dismissed to

the EPC. Both actions have now been done.

Copies of the Minutes of the Administrative Commission of September 17, 2009 and of

the Session of the Victoria Presbyterian Church at its Called Meeting on September 17, 2009 are

attached to complete our report.

Respectfully submitted,Zolton Phillips, ModeratorAdministrative Commission for Victoria Presbyterian Church

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The Victoria Presbyterian ChurchMinutes of Administrative Commission of The Presbytery of the James

The Victoria Presbyterian Church Administrative Commission of The Presbytery of the James met at the office of The Presbytery of the James on September 17, 2009 at 5:30 pm. Present were Elder Mary Baril, Elder Kenna Payne, Rev. Zolton Phillips, Elder Gene Rosen, Elder John Rupp, Rev. Don Steele and Rev. Arch Wallace. Also present for the meeting was Rev. H. Carson Rhyne, Jr., General Presbyter/Stated Clerk of Presbytery of the James.

The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Rev. Zolton Phillips who opened the meeting with prayer.

The Moderator presented a proposed docket for the meeting. There being no additions, the Docket was adopted by common consent.

The Moderator presented copies of various documents that were applicable to the reason for meeting: (a copy is attached)

1. POJ’s original empowerment and instruction to the Victoria Presbyterian Church Commission

2. POJ’s action to the Commission’s report in February, 20093. Arch Wallace’s email communication of July 6, 2009 relating the action of the

Victoria Presbyterian Church Session and his listing of possible options for the Commission

4. Copy of the Book of Church Order and the Book of Order dealing with the property issue.

5. Copy of communication to the Victoria Presbyterian Church Session on July 29, 2009 under the signature of the Moderator.

6. Copy of communications between the Moderator and the Stated Clerk considering possible options to the Commission in dealing with Session of Victoria Presbyterian Church.

A lengthy discussion of the above six (6) documents followed.

MOTION: To follow the action authorized by the Presbytery of the James in October, 2008 in assuming Original Jurisdiction and to dissolve the Session of Victoria Presbyterian Church and to assume the function of the Session of Victoria Presbyterian Church and to appoint Rev. Arch Wallace as Moderator of the Session by Elder Mary Baril and seconded by Elder Kenna Payne. Approved. Action effective as of 6:00 PM, September 17, 2009.

MOTION: To recess the meeting of the Victoria Presbyterian Church Administrative Commission of The Presbytery of the James by Elder Mary Baril and seconded by Elder Kenna Payne. Approved.

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The Moderator reconvened the meeting of the Commission at 6:20 pm on September 17, 2009 and received a report from the Rev. Arch Wallace, Moderator of the Session of Victoria Presbyterian Church, which were the minutes of the most recent meeting, which are attached and made a part of these minutes. No action on the part of the Commission was needed on the report.

MOTION: To have the Stated Clerk communicate the actions of the Commission and the Session of Victoria Presbyterian Church to the Chair of the Committee on Ministry of the Presbytery of the James and to Ms. Ann Jackson, Victoria Presbyterian Church by Elder Mary Baril and seconded by Elder Kenna Payne. Approved.

The Commission, by unanimous consent, authorized the Moderator and the Rev. Arch Wallace to prepare information for the docket of the Presbytery of the James meeting on October 17, 2009.

The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Elder Kenna Payne at 6:35 pm.

________________Gene Rosen, Clerk

The Victoria Presbyterian Church Minutes of Called Meeting of Session

The Victoria Presbyterian Church Session met at the office of the Presbytery of the James on September 17, 2009 at 6:00 pm. Present were Mary Baril, Kenna Payne, Zolton Phillips, Gene Rosen, John Rupp, Don Steele and Rev. Arch Wallace. Also present for the meeting was Rev. H. Carson Rhyne, Jr., General Presbyter/Stated Clerk of Presbytery of the James.

The meeting was called to order by the Moderator, Rev. Arch Wallace who led in prayer.

MOTION: To elect Gene Rosen, Clerk of Session by Mary Baril and seconded by Elder Kenna Payne. Approved.

MOTION: To authorize the Moderator to sign the lease as presented by the Presbytery of the James for the property in Victoria known by all as Victoria Presbyterian Church by Zolton Phillips and seconded by Mary Baril. Approved.

MOTION: To authorize the Moderator to sign and send to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) the current petition for membership previously signed by the congregation by Zolton Phillips and seconded by Mary Baril. Approved.

MOTION: To notify the current elders of Victoria Presbyterian Church of the action taken at the Session Meeting this evening in signing the lease with the Presbytery of the James and the

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signing and sending of the petition to the EPC by Mary Baril and seconded by Kenna Payne. Approved.

MOTION: To notify the current Treasurer and the other elders and leaders of the Church that we wish for them to continue in their activities, such as Committees, securing preachers on Sundays, the day to day operation of the Church, etc, of Victoria Presbyterian Church by Mary Baril and seconded by Kenna Payne. Approved.

The Session requested The Stated Clerk to communicate this evening’s action to Ms. Ann Jackson, P.O. Box 95, Victoria, Virginia 23974.

MOTION: To adjourn by Mary Baril and seconded by Kenna Payne. Approved at 6:20 pm.

The meeting was closed with prayer by the Stated Clerk.

________________Gene Rosen, Clerk

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Guidelines for Churches Considering a Request to the Presbytery of the James to be Dismissed to another Denomination

These guidelines begin with fervent prayer that they will never be needed. If they should be, then both the congregation making the request and the Presbytery of the James (“Presbytery”) will have failed in their shared responsibility to achieve the reconciliation and the unity to which scripture calls us.

Nevertheless, in a time of uneasiness, rumors, and strongly held convictions, we must recognize human frailty and the reality of sin in all of us. We may fail to realize our high calling and find ourselves faced with the unpleasant and tragic necessity of negotiating a separation between sisters and brothers in Christ.

Should that time come, we would have also failed our vows if we did not carry out that process “decently and in order,” with as little dishonor to the Church of Jesus Christ as possible. To that end, the following guidelines have been prepared.

1. At any time, individual members of a particular church may move their membership to another church, for any reasons of their choosing. (Book of Order G-10.0302b1-4)

2. A congregation may be dismissed only by the governing body of original jurisdiction, and in consultation with the receiving denomination’s appropriate governing body. (Book of Order G-15.0203a and b; G-11.030i)

3. When the leadership of the Presbytery becomes aware, either through formal congregational action or through informal contacts with church leaders or members, that a congregation is in serious disagreement with the governance of the denomination or other issues relating to the denomination, the General Presbyter will offer a pastoral visit by a Listening Team. The leadership of the Presbytery, including the Moderator of the Presbytery, the Moderator of the Committee on Ministry (“COM”), and the General Presbyter will select the Listening Team members.

    The purpose of this Listening Team is to engage the Session and the congregation as a whole (as circumstances suggest) in a time of prayer and dialogue aimed at understanding the areas of disagreement and conflict, and, if possible, fostering reconciliation.

    The Listening Team shall consist of 3 to 7 members, including Elders and Ministers of the Word and Sacrament. These persons shall be chosen for their listening skills and their gifts for mediation and conflict resolution.

    If the Listening Team after meeting with the session of the congregation wishing to withdraw (“Session”) or the congregation wishing to withdraw (“the Congregation”) determines that progress can likely be made toward reconciliation through continued dialogue, the Listening Team will report findings to the COM as quickly as possible and seek ways to continue the dialogue with the Congregation and its leaders.

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    The Listening Team will remain in tact if possible through the process. If this process leads to reconciliation, no further action will be required and the Listening Team will report to the COM that its work is complete and ask to be dissolved.

   In the event that the Listening Team's efforts are unsuccessful and the Session and Congregation continue to take steps toward separation from the denomination, the Listening Team will make a full report to the COM, including its recommendations as to appropriate action to take. The COM will then request that as soon as possible Presbytery establish and empower an Administrative Commission to take the next steps with the Congregation. The Administrative Commission may include members of the Listening Team and others, as the COM recommends and Presbytery elects.

4. a. Having met with the Listening team, if the Session determines that it will press forward with withdrawal from the PCUSA, the Session shall call a special congregational meeting in accordance with Book of Order (G– 7.0302b and c; G-7.0303a(1), b). This meeting shall be held no sooner than one month after the Presbytery appoints an Administrative Commission. If the Congregation has more than 150 members at least 33% of the active membership must be present and if the Congregation has 150 members or less then 50% of the active members as shown on the Congregation’s rolls must be present to establish a quorum. Representatives of the Administrative Commission, or, if not, then representatives of the Committee on Ministry and Presbytery staff must be present and shall have the privilege of the floor. The question to be discussed is: “Shall the __________ Presbyterian Church request Presbytery of the James to dismiss it to _____________?” Ample time shall be given to both those who favor and those who oppose such an action. No official vote of any kind shall be taken at this meeting, but at its conclusion, a non-binding, written “straw poll” will be taken upon this question: “Shall the __________ Presbyterian Church request Presbytery of the James to dismiss it to _____________?” If the vote is greater than 50% then the Session will meet with members of the Administrative Commission to discuss possible arrangements for a dismissal, should the Session later call a congregational meeting for formal consideration (see item e below).

b. These discussions between the Session and members of the Administrative Commission shall proceed with these guidelines:

The Presbytery, in this process of negotiating issues of conscience and property with the Congregation, will seek to reflect the Presbytery’s primary concern for the ongoing mission and vitality of Christian witness in the area impacted by ministry of that Congregation.

In this regard the Presbytery has an abiding interest in and responsibility for the location and facilities of the member churches, since they are an expression of the missions of the larger Church (G-8.0102).

• Even so, the Presbytery will recognize that “the church” in a particular area is not its building or financial assets, but the members of the congregation.

• The Presbytery will be mindful both of congregation members who, for reasons of conscience, desire that their congregation be dismissed to another denomination, and also those congregation members who wish to remain within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

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• If a group desires to remain within the Presbyterian Church (USA) and a group desires to be dismissed to another Reformed body, the Session and the Administrative Commission will make an effort to enable both congregations to be as healthy as possible in the aftermath of separation.

c. If the negotiations between the Administrative Commission and the Session fail to reach an agreement, then the Administrative Commission will make a recommendation to the Presbytery about how to respond to the Congregation’s request to be dismissed.

d. The Session, no sooner than three months and no later than six months after the first congregational meeting, may call a second special congregational meeting. If called, all active members shall be notified by mail, at least 30 days in advance of the meeting. The notice shall include the nature and purpose of the meeting. If the church has over 150 members, at least 33% of its active members must be present and if the church has 150 members or less, then 50% of its active members as shown on the church rolls must be present to establish a quorum. Due diligence will be exercised to ensure that only those eligible to vote are allowed to do so. No member who is not present may be represented by proxy. (G-7.0404).

e. The question to be put before the congregation is: “Shall the ________ Presbyterian Church request the Presbytery of the James to dismiss it to ________, according to the terms negotiated by the Presbytery and the Session?” Ample time will be provided for those on both sides of the question to speak. Representatives appointed by the Presbytery (the Administrative Commission and staff acting on its behalf) shall have the privilege of the floor. Following discussion and prayer, a vote on the motion shall be by written ballots. The ballot choices shall be; “Request Dismissal”, “Do Not Request Dismissal”, or “Abstain”. If 75% of the active members voting favor dismissal, the request shall go to the Presbytery.

5. At the meeting of Presbytery, which may be either a stated or a called meeting, to consider a request for dismissal, the Presbytery shall proceed in the follow manner:

a. Before the vote they shall: hear from members of the congregation requesting dismissal; hear from members of the congregation opposing dismissal; hear from members of the Administrative Commission who were present

at the second congregational meeting and who may have a recommendation to present to the Presbytery;

be informed of any financial contributions or obligations related to this Congregation through its relationship with any governing body of the PC (USA);

hear whether the denomination to which this church wishes to be dismissed is in conformity with the Book of Order for a denomination to which the Presbytery may dismiss a congregation and whether the Presbytery has met all of its obligations in such dismissal. (Book of Order G-15.0201, 15.0202a and b);

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be informed of how this congregation’s dismissal would affect the mission and ministry of this Presbytery;

receive a proposal, if any, for a financial and other settlement between the Presbytery and the Congregation.

b. If the Session and the Administrative Commission have negotiated a proposed settlement regarding financial and other matters, then after discussion and prayer, the Presbytery shall vote by written ballot on this question, “Shall the ________ Presbyterian Church be dismissed to ________ based on the following terms and conditions of a settlement between the Church and the Presbytery: [Insert Terms of proposed settlement] Original copies of session minutes and other historical documents

related to the church’s life as a church in the Presbyterian Church (USA) or its predecessors will be turned over to the Presbytery for transmission to The Presbyterian Historical Foundation, and the Presbytery and departing church will receive copies.

c. The votes cast shall be “yes”, “no”, or “abstain”.

6. If title to the Congregation's property is not transferred to the Congregation or the new denomination at the time of the Congregation's dismissal from Presbytery, then during the period between its dismissal and the transfer of the title to the Congregation or the new denomination, as appropriate, the Administrative Commission on behalf of the Presbytery may rent the property to the dismissed Congregation pursuant to a lease requiring that the Congregation will maintain property and casualty insurance sufficient to protect the Congregation and the Presbytery from any liabilities or losses relating to the property that may be incurred during the interim period.  While the Administrative Commission will be gracious in establishing the rental fees for the property, in no case shall the rent be less than any encumbrances or mortgages upon the property.

7. If representatives of the dismissed body file suit in any secular court to claim the real property involved in the dismissal, the actions taken by the Presbytery regarding the dismissal shall be held in abeyance for possible reconsideration by the Presbytery after a determination by the secular court.

8. In negotiating and discussing any financial arrangements with the representatives of the Congregation, the Administrative Commission will consider whether a viable continuing congregation loyal to the PC (USA) exists which may make use of the property and what provisions have been made for their care if that should not be the case.

9. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in the Presbytery appointing an Administrative Commission in place of the Congregation’s Session and its assumption of original jurisdiction in accordance with Book of Order G-11.0103s.

10. The intent in any dispute within the life of the church is to achieve reconciliation. The Presbytery of the James wishes to make clear our intention to continue to seek that goal. We

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assure any congregation that should separate from us of our continuing prayers for them and a willingness to welcome them back to that part of God’s family known as the Presbyterian Church (USA).

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CONSENT DOCKET

The Consent Docket was approved. No items were removed for further consideration(Appendix IV)

REPORT OF THE CAMP HANOVER MINISTRIES BOARD

Gary Smith, reporting

I. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING FOR INFORMATION:A. Board met at camp June 7th and August 10th. The former included a commissioning

service for the summer camp ministry team. This was led by the Reverend Tom Coye of the St. Andrews Presbyterian Church.

B. Lifted up and gave thanks to the clergy who spent time at camp or leading camp events this summer: John Turner: teaching Lifeguard Training class for staff (he’s been doing this for more than ten years); Greg Wood: cooking pancakes for the whole camp most Wednesday mornings; Sylvester Bullock and Dan Hale: serving as Pastors-In-Residence; Tom Coye: hosting our Nail and Sail program at St. Andrews Presbyterian; David Cameron: hosting a group for overnight stays in the church yard at Rockfish Church; Pete Smith: hosting the Labor Day Family Reunion Camp; Billy Craig and Carson Rhyne: helping with conflict resolution.

C. Happily report that summer resident camp attendance increased 6% over last summer. D. Successfully added the following elements to the summer program: MAD for God, a

two week music and drama camp for middle high campers; Senior Sampler, a one week camp for senior high campers; constructed the first nine “baskets” for a disc golf course.

E. Celebrated a fine summer staff and excellent leadership team. Staff members came from the following POJ churches: Salem (1 staff member), Bon Air (6), Fredericksburg (2), Southminster (2), Forest Hill (1), Tuckahoe (3), Fairfield (2), Providence (1), and New Hanover (1). We encourage each POJ church to lift up this ministry as a wonderful training ground for their young adults…a tremendous opportunity to grow in, shape and share one’s faith.

F. 52 of our Presbytery churches sent persons to either day or resident camp. We give thanks for the fine work done by those churches to lift up the value of outdoor ministry to their families and, in many cases, helping to make the experience financially possible. We seek to have the rest of our Presbytery churches send children and youth to camp in 2010. Specifically we recognize and celebrate the churches sending the most campers (day and resident) in 2009: Richmond First (49); Campbell Memorial (43); Fredericksburg (32); New Hanover (28); Brandermill (25); Louisa (23); Chester (21); Olivet (19); Salisbury (17); Southminster (16); Three Chopt (15); Ginter Park (15); Bon Air (14); Fairfield (10).

G. Provided $15,600 in campership aid to 128 different campers this summer, over 14% of the total camp population.

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H. Traveling day camp program was hosted at these POJ churches: Olivet/Tabor, Ginter Park, Campbell Memorial, Brandermill, Louisa, First Richmond, and Chester. We give thanks for the wonderful work done by these churches to make it possible for 154 campers to participate in a Christian day camping program.

I. During staff training, groups of our staff attended church at Salem, Ginter Park, Mechanicsville, and Bethlehem churches where they were given the opportunity to share about camp’s mission and have some part in worship leadership.

J. The following churches were “Agape Partners” with camp this summer: Westminster Richmond, Providence Forge, Bethlehem, and Bon Air . Each church committed to pray daily for each staff member by name and then to bring an agape gift (some kind of delicious snack with an encouraging Scriptural passage) for each staff member at the end of the week. What a blessing for our staff.

K. Campers and staff voluntarily participated in “Meals of Simplicity,” a meal of beans, rice, and water served for lunch once during each session. The money saved from preparing this simple meal is donated to Heifer Project. Participants engaged in discussion and sharing about hunger issues from a Biblical perspective. .

L. Summer campers reached out to those less fortunate than themselves by planning fun days at camp for children whose parents are incarcerated (Milk and Cookies program); by serving meals to families who have just visited loved ones in prison (Assisting Families of Inmates); by doing a variety of jobs at the Central Virginia Foodbank (including the delivery of many cans of food which the camp encouraged parents of campers to bring on “pick-up day”), by working with older adults in a senior citizen living situation.

M. Heard regular reports on the progress of the Capital Campaign from members of the Steering Committee including reviewing the Statement of Compelling Need.

N. Heard a report from a board group tasked with looking at staffing needs and models for the future of camp. The group met with Joel Winchip, the Executive Director of PCCCA (Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association) for conversation and input.

O. Board members reported on their conversation in the summer with the new summer camp director.

P. Heard reports from the Property Committee about the successful repair work to the beams in Wise Lodge and the tremendous work of many volunteers to complete the installation of electricity in four longhouses.

Q. Heard report from the director regarding the American Camp Association (ACA) accreditation visit in July. Very valuable time for reassessing safety and health issues in all phases of camp life. Official notification of accreditation will come this fall.

R. Were invited to participate in the outdoor Ordination and Installation Service for Katherine Nguyen at camp on Sunday, September 6, 2009, at 7 pm.

II. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS:A. Approved a preliminary 2010 budget which was submitted to the Presbytery budget

committee. B. Wholeheartedly endorsed the goals/focus of Phase I of the Capital Campaign.C. Requested time on the October Presbytery meeting docket for a presentation on

current outdoor ministry trends.

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D. Authorized members of the Board to engage in conversation with members of the Makemie Woods Board about possible joint ventures.

E. Authorized the director to talk with other Virginia Presbytery camps about possible joint ventures.

F. Approved a recommendation from the Property Committee to change the Master Site Plan for the Koinonia Lodge area and surrounding longhouses.

III.THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION WAS APPROVED: A. Communion may be served, as appropriate, at 2010 Camp Hanover sponsored events

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTRYRev. Charles Grant, Moderator, reporting

I. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING AS INFORMATION:A. Recognized the deaths of Rev. George T. Matheny, Honorably Retired, on Aug. 11,

2009, and Rev. Sam McCammon, Honorably Retired and former Executive Presbytery, August 19, 2009.

II. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS:A. Transferring Ministers and Educators:

1. Rev. Eddie Bellis to Peace River Presbytery.2. Rev. Steven Cobb as Pastor, Grace Covenant Church, from Newton Presbytery.3. Rev. Samuel Adams, from Greater Atlanta Presbytery, as Assistant Professor of

Biblical Studies, Union-PSCE.4. Rev. Greg Wood to Abingdon Presbytery as pastor, Tazewell Church.

B. Temporary Pastor Relation Covenants Concurrence:1. Rev. Glynn Bell and Village Church, King’s Chapel (10/1/09 – 1/31/10)2. Candidate Andrew Taylor-Troutman and Woodlawn Church, 6/28/09 –

8/9/093. Rev. Edson S. Pederson and Bethany Church, 8/1/09 – 12/1/094. Candidate Chad C. McCain and Woodlawn Church, 8/23/09 – 12/06/095. Timothy H. Shephard and Lawrenceville and Ogden Churches, 7/1/09 –

9/30/09

C. Stated Supply Covenants:1. Rev. Sylvester Bullock and Greenwood Church, 7/1/09 – 6/30/102. Rev. Russell Alan Riter and St. James Church, 7/1/09 – 6/30/103. Rev. H. Davis Yeuell and Trinity Church, 8/1/09 – 7/31/104. Dr. Sarah Nave and Covenant Church, 9/1/09 – 8/31/2010

D. Interim Supply Covenant:1. Rev. Steve Brown and Gordonsville Church, 7/1/09 – 6/30/102. Rev. Gavin Meek and First Church, Charlottesville, 9/1/09 -8/31/10

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3. Rev. Mary H. Johns and New Covenant Church, Richmond, VA, 10/1/09 -9/30/2010

4. Rev. Richard Haney and Fairfield Church, 11/9/09 – 11/8/10.

E. Election of Pastor (PNC) and Associate Pastor Nominating Committees (APNC)1. Lord Jesus Korean Church (Associate Pastor)2. New Covenant Church

G. Appointment of Session Moderators:1. Rev. Elaine Bowen and King’s Chapel Church2. Rev. Laura Sugg, Westminster, Charlottesville, while pastor is on sabbatical,

9/6/09 – 12/13/09

H. Permission to labor within/outside the bounds of POJ1. Rev. Bob Pollock, Member Coastal Carolina Presbytery; Rev. Dale Dealtrey,

Member Newton Presbytery; and Rev. Marvin Lindsay, Salem Presbytery, added to the Pulpit Supply List.

2. Rev. Clay Macaulay to labor outside the bounds to perform a wedding in Williamsburg VA

I. Terms of Call Approved:1. Christopher James Mooney, Candidate, San Francisco Presbytery, Associate Pastor, First Church Richmond. Cash Salary: $29,500; Housing: $18,000; Pension/Medical: $14,963; FICA: $3,634; Auto: $2,000; Continuing Education: $1,500. Four weeks vacation, two weeks Study Leave.2. Steve Cobb, Pastor, Grace Covenant Church. Cash Salary: $60,000; Housing: $30,000; Pension/Medical: $28,350; FICA: $6,885 Auto: $2,400; Continuing Education: $2,400; Other: $35,000 for moving and housing down payment; Five weeks vacation, two weeks Study Leave.

J. Ordination/Installation Commissions approved: 1. Ordination Commission for Nancy Claire Essig as Pastor of Burkeville

Presbyterian Church on August 30, 2009 at 3:00 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Charlottesville, VA.

2. Ordination and Installation Commission for Katherine Todd Nguyen as Assistant Director, Camp Hanover, on September 6, 2009, at Camp Hanover.

3. Installation Commission for Nancy Claire Essig as Pastor of BurkevillePresbyterian Church on September 20, 2009 at 4:00 pm at Burkeville Presbyterian Church, Burkeville, VA.

4. Installation Commission for Rick Hutton as Associate Pastor, Third Church,Richmond on October 4, 2009, 4:00 PM, Third Church, Richmond.

K Pastoral Relationships Dissolved:1. Rev. Greg Wood and King’s Chapel Church.

L. Approved request from a minister for financial assistance for dental bills in the amount of $1,000; and for another minister for medical bills of $2,000.

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M. Renewed the Designated Pastor position for Rev. Louis Williams and Third Church, Petersburg, for 26 months, 11/1/09 – 12/31/11; also approved extension of terms of call for Joon Ho Chang, Designated Associate Pastor, two years, Lord Jesus Korean Church.

N. Approved request of scholarship aid for Rev. Kay Steele and Rev. Charles Grant for Interim Training at Montreat this summer.

O. Received Year-Long Internship Reports: John Welton, Rivermont; Jason Grimes, Rennie Memorial

P. Approved Ordination Commission on behalf of Carlisle Presbytery for Candidate Alex Lang to become a Minister of Word and Sacrament, June 27, 2009, 12:00 noon, Fredericksburg Church. Alex is being called as Associate Pastor to Pine Street Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg, PA.

Q. Approved revision of the Pastoral Care Fund Guidelines to be renamed, “Pastoral Care Discretionary Fund Policy, Appendix K.” (copy is on Presbytery website).

R. Approved request from Rev. Shawn J. Smith for the Seminary Debt Assistance Program

II. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATION WAS APPROVED:A. Rev. Joshua Choi become Member at Large, August 1, 2009..

Rev. Charles Grant arrested his report until after lunch.

REPORT OF THE BUSINESS AFFAIRS COMMITTEERev. David Cameron, Moderator, reporting

I. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING AS INFORMATION:A. Jeff Chapman, RBC Wealth Management, reports that as of 08/31/09, the total

investment portfolio totaled $ 4,203,514 vs. a total cost of $ 3,848,586. Since inception we have realized a return of 3.58 % vs. 1.98% for the custom index (custom index is 70% S&P 500 Total Return, which includes dividends and 30% Barclays Capital Gov-Corp Intermediate bond index ).  For the prior 12 months the total portfolio returned -7.20% vs. -10.64% for the custom index.

The sale of the Presbytery Office Park return as of December 31, 2008, the value was $1,549,436 vs. an investment of $1,591,665. Since inception on 11/13/07, the return on the investment is -1.49% vs. -10.80% for the custom index.  The 12 month performance was -6.54% vs. a custom index of -10.64%.

II. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS: A. Approved a listing agreement for rent of a house by the Summit ChurchB. Approved a Lease with the Victoria Church upon recommendation of the Victoria

Administrative Commission, for up to six months at $5.00 per monthC. Received the 2008 Audit Report and heard from the auditor, Toby Leslie, Keiter

Stephens Company, CPAs, about the good condition of the presbytery finances.

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III. THE COMMITTEE, ACTING AS AN ADMINISTRATIVE COMMISSION, REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTION: None

(authority granted by the presbytery on October 8, 2002)

IV. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATION WAS APPROVED:A. A loan for Summit Church from Presbyterian Loan Investment Program of up to

$450,000 for 5 years

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONSElder John Flournoy, Moderator, reporting

I. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING AS INFORMATION:A. None

II. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING DISTRICT VACANCIES: (M=Minister E=Elder specifically required L=either Layperson or Elder may serve)

D Class Board/Committee M/E/L Nominee Church/Valid

1 2012 Admin Board M1 2012 Cong Min Bd L/M1 2012 Camp Han Min Bd L1 2012 Com On Min E1 2012 Com On Min M1 2012 Com On Nom L/M2 2012 Leader Min Bd L/M2 2012 Com On Nom L/M2 2012 Public Min Bd L2 2012 Com on Min M 2 2012 Cong Min Bd L/M2 2012 Camp Han Min Bd L/M2 2012 Bus Aff Com L3 2012 Camp Han Min Bd L/M3 2012 Cong Min Bd L3 2012 Leader Min Bd L3 2012 Com on Prep E4 2010 Leader Min Bd L/M5 2010 Camp Han Min Bd L5 2010 Cong Min Bd L 7 2011 Com on Nomin L/M7 2011 Com on Prep M 7 2011 Com on Prep E7 2009 Public Min Bd M 9 2011 Public Min Bd M

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III THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING MEMBER AT LARGE VACANCIES:

(M=Minister E=Elder specifically required L=either Layperson or Elder may serve)Class Board/Committee M/E/L Nominee Church/Valid2012 Cong Min BdVMod M2012 Admin Bd ViceMod M2015 Perm Jud Com E2015 Perm Jud Com M

IV. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS WERE APPROVED:A. Presbytery elected the following persons to serve as District Representatives on various boards and committees.

(M=Minister E=Elder specifically required L=either Layperson or Elder may serve)Class Board/Committee M/E/L Nominee Church/Valid 1 2012 Camp Han Min Bd M David K Garth South Plains1 2012 Leader Min Bd M Timothy McConnell Validated1 2012 Public Min Bd M Kimberleigh Wells First, Charlottesville1 2012 Com Prep Min M Jewell-Ann Parton Tabor1 2012 Com Prep Min E Jack Murphy Rockfish1 2012 Business Aff M David Cameron Rockfish1 2010 Com on Min E Kirk Pilkington First, Charlottesville2 2012 Admin Board M Allen H Fisher, Jr. Fredericksburg2 2012 Camp Han Min Bd M Denise Hall Orange2 2012 Com On Min E Gail T McGhee First, Fredericksburg2 2012 Com Prep Min M Shawn Jason Smith Hartwood2 2012 Com Prep Min E Jennifer Rowe First, Fredericksburg 3 2012 Admin Board M Carol C. Fisher Mechanicsville3 2012 Camp Han Min Bd L Pamela Macaulay Campbell Memorial3 2012 Public Min Bd L Peggie Rosen Fairfield3 2012 Com On Min E Rebecca Ford Campbell Memorial3 2012 Com On Min M Shane Roberson New Hanover3 2012 Com Prep Min M Janet Humphries Validated3 2012 Bus Aff Com M Rebekah Johns Bethlehem6 2010 Com On Min M Robert Johnson Forest Hill

B. Presbytery elected the following persons to serve as Members at Large on various boards and committees.

(M=Minister E=Elder specifically required L=either Layperson or Elder may serve)Class Board/Committee M/E/L Nominee Church/Valid 2010 Com On Min E Bill Brownfield Three Chopt2011 Admin Bd Moderator E Mary Baril First, Richmond2011 Com Prep Min Moderator M Brenda Halbrooks Three Chopt2011 Com Prep Min ViceMod E Bryan D Carr Second, Richmond

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C. Presbytery elected Peter S. Ro of Lord Jesus to serve as Presbytery moderator for 2010.

D. Presbytery elected the following to serve as Commissioners and Alternates to the 2010 General Assembly:Commissioners MinistersCarroll A LondonerThomas R CoyeAllen H FisherMary H Johns

EldersPat Valentine South PlainsBob Andrews ChristWilliam H Scott, Jr All SoulsBeverly D Walters St. Giles

Alternate CommissionersMinistersRobert Bluford, Jr Shady ClarkCarol FisherDavis Yeuell

EldersZella Spiers ConcordJon Sweigart HartwoodTimothy Williams ChesterB. Ayars Lore Providence Forge

Young Adult Advisory DelegateKatie Read First, Charlottesville

E. Presbytery elected the following person to serve as a member of the Permanent Judicial Committee Class of 2015

William H Neal, Jr.Rev. Jane Govan

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REPORT OF THE LEADERSHIP MINISTRIES BOARDGordon Mapes, Moderator, was not present. There were no questions about report.

I. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING FOR INFORMATION:A. The semi-annual Retired Church Workers Luncheon was held on September 23, 2009 at the Covenant Woods community in Mechanicsville. Tom and Ruth Waltz presented a short program on hymns.B. The 2009 Older Adults Retreat was held at Camp Hanover on Thursday, October 8, 2009. The keynote speaker was the Rev. Jane Sigloh, a retired Episcopal priest residing in Charlottesville. She is author of Like Trees Walking: In the Second Half of Life. C. The Presbytery Worship Conference was held at First Church, Richmond, on Saturday, October 10, 2009. The speaker was Tom Troeger from Yale Divinity School.D. The Presbytery’s Youth Council will hold its Fall Call, a retreat for senior-high youth, at Camp Hanover on the weekend of November 6-8, 2009.

II. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTION:A. At its June 23 meeting, the Board changed its funding basis for providing financial support to The Resource Center (TRC). The Resource Center is a Richmond-based, ecumenical organization that provides resources to churches in curriculum development and other Christian educational programming. For many years past the Presbytery has provided TRC an annual grant. In return all POJ churches were given free access to TRC services. Only about one-quarter of POJ churches, however, used TRC’s services. In an effort to better steward POJ financial resources, the LMB has decided to switch its funding basis. Beginning September 1, 2009, the LMB budget will cease providing an annual grant to the TRC. Instead its budget will pay for annual congregational membership in TRC for any POJ church that wishes to use TRC’s services. No POJ congregation using TRC should therefore experience any interruption in its access to TRC resources.

III. THE BOARD HAS NO CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS.

IV. THE BOARD MAKES NO RECOMMENDATIONS AT THIS TIME.

REPORT OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE BOARDRev. John Turner, Moderator, reporting

I. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING FOR INFORMATION:A. The Cents-Ability Hunger offering received at the February Presbytery

meeting was $333.00.B. Received from the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic new figures for 2009 and 2010 per

capita: reduction of ¼ of the total amount for 2009; reduction of ½ of the total amount for 2010.

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C. The Board was reminded of its responsibility to secure locations for presbytery meetings in 2010 and following as no invitations have been received to

date.D. Richard Haney, Moderator of the Implementation Task Group, shared the latest

information with the Board for their feedback and information. He also shared the PowerPoint presentation to be made at the October presbytery meeting. He also shared a series of Questions and Answers from the June presbytery meeting. The Board was helpful in their assistance.

E. District 5 will have Dr. Brian Blount as guest preacher November 1 at Amelia Church for a regional gathering. District 1: two mission teams went on trips this summer, a lectionary study group is active, and the October Officer Training among congregations will be held.

F. The General Presbyter shared the report of two study groups on the New Form of Government which was submitted to the national office by June 30, 2009.

G. The Presbytery at its June, 2009, meeting approved a Special Administrative Review Committee. The Committee has not been formed as of this point

because all of the Session Records have been received. We are grateful for the fine response of the Sessions that had outstanding records which needed to be reviewed.

II. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS:A. Ratified hiring of Kaete Unterzuber, Administrative Assistant and Office Manager,

and Sterling Lloyd, Assistant to the Stated Clerk for COM. Earlier action had occurred via email.

III. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS: None

IV. THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATIONS WERE APPROVED:A. Docket for the October 17, 2009, Presbytery meeting.B. Proposed 2010 Budget .(Appendix VII)

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REPORT OF THE CONGREGATION MINISTRIES BOARDRev. Rebekah Johns and Elder Ayars Lore spoke on Acts 16:5 Initiative, and Rev. Albert

Connette, Moderator, New Church Development, spoke on new church project in Massaponax area of Spotsylvania County.

I. INFORMATION FROM SUBCOMMITTEES:A. Evangelism Committee:

Under the leadership of Elder Ayars Lore and Rev. Rebekah Johns, co-moderators, the Acts 16:5 Initiative of Vital Churches Institute will hold its initial seminar on February 13, 2010, at River Road Church, Richmond. Brochures about the program are available at the meeting of the presbytery and online at www.presbyteryofthejames.org Congregations would decide upon their three year participation in the program after participating in the initial training event. For more information, just ask!

B. New Church Development Committee (NCDC)The NCDC has a recommendation about a new church development mission possibility in the Massaponax area of Spotsylvania County, south of Fredericksburg. Their report is on pages 42-44. Rev. Albert Connette will make the report.

II. THE FOLLOWING RECOMMENDATION FROM THE NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE WAS APPROVED:A. A New Church Development Mission in the Massaponax area of Spotsylvania

County, VA.

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Proposal for a New Church Development Mission in Massaponax

RationaleOur Lord Jesus commissioned us to go and make disciples, baptizing them… and teaching them. The Presbyterian Church (USA) has integrated this commission into its constitutional mission statement, the Great Ends of the Church, which includes the proclamation of the Gospel for the salvation of humankind. Faithfulness in this ministry arises from our belief in the uniqueness of God’s grace in Jesus Christ as the source of our hope and salvation and the corresponding urgency and importance of sharing this good news that God’s love and saving action might be known and embraced.

A vital aspect of faithfulness to this commission is the work of establishing new congregations. History and studies have shown that new church developments are more effective in communicating the gospel with growing, new and diverse populations. By their nature new churches tend to be more evangelistic, missional, outward focused and inviting. A study by the Center for U.S. Mission revealed that 50 year old churches average one convert per 85 members while 3 year old churches average 1 convert for each member.

There is a growing awareness in our denomination that periods of membership growth have corresponded with vigorous new church development ministry while our recent decades of decline in membership have accompanied a sharp decrease in the number of new churches started.

BackgroundThis proposal arises out of the work of a Task Force established in 2008 with members from five Fredericksburg area churches to study the region’s demographic information and develop a prioritized list of locations for the next new church development efforts. The Task Force completed its work in the winter of this year and recommended the Massaponax area as the first area to be targeted.

The New Church Development Committee reviewed the conclusions of the Task Force and concurred in prioritizing Massaponax, the southeast quadrant of the I-95 and Highway 17 intersection, as the location of the first new church development effort in this area.

During the spring and summer retired pastor Al Moreau along with New Church Development Committee members communicated or met with each session in the Fredericksburg area to discuss the proposed new church development area and the opportunities for supporting this mission by the respective churches.

The Fredericksburg and Summit Churches have endorsed the new church development mission in the Massaponax area.

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DemographicsThe Massaponax new church development mission will be centered on U.S. Highway 17 between I-95 and State Highway 2. The location is 8-10 miles from the nearest Presbyterian Church, Spotsylvania. The Percept demographic information for the 3 mile radius area that encompasses this site reveals the following:

A 2008 population of 18,057 with a projected 2013 population of 21,970 A 22% population growth rate, compared to the national average of 5% A younger population with 40% below the age of 26, 92% below the age of 65 A higher than average African American population of 14%, and a lower than average,

6%, but fast growing Hispanic/Latino population A religious affiliation that is somewhat higher than the national average, yet 29%

reporting no involvement and 29% somewhat involved (over 10,000 people given 2008 population)

84% of the population expressing a preference for “historic Christian” groups

ProcessWith Presbytery of the James approval, the New Church Development Committee would proceed to take steps to develop a new congregation in accordance with Presbytery’s New Church Development Policies and Guidelines.

The highlights of this process would include, in order:1. establishing a New Church Development Task Force comprised of members from various

Fredericksburg area congregations and possibly residents of the target area2. soliciting support and involvement from area congregations3. developing a plan for financial support of the new church start-up4. preparing a vision statement and ministry plan5. applying for General Assembly funding6. establishing a search committee for an organizing pastor7. developing a steering committee (a nascent session) with the pastor8. arranging office, meeting and worship sites9. exploring permanent sites for the church10. cultivating a core group11. developing a plan for and promotion of launch of worship and congregational ministries

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Financial SupportFinancial support of this new church development initiative would be shared between Presbytery, General Assembly and supporting congregations in the Fredericksburg area.

Significant funding would not be needed until 2011 after an organizing pastor has been secured and moves to the field. Presbytery’s support through the New Church Development Committee budget would likely begin in the $50,000 range and decline each year as the giving by the congregation grows. Support from General Assembly and area churches would be in the same range and on a declining basis as well.

Presbytery’s practice has been to purchase land for new congregations with General Assembly loans repaid from the income of invested church development funds from bequests. Presbytery also owns property in the north Stafford area that is no longer suitable for use as a church site. As property values recover with the economy the sale of this site could also be a source of funds for land acquisition.The cost of construction of church facilities has generally been borne by the emerging congregation, arising from their faith and mission commitments and resulting giving.

REPORT OF THE PUBLIC MINISTRIES BOARDRev. Dixie Brachlow, Moderator, reporting.

I. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING AS INFORMATION:A. Global Partnerships: Mission worker Dr. Magda Iskander, Egypt, comes as part of

the PC (USA) Mission Challenge ’09. The committee is presently reviewing mission grant applicants. Patrice Bittner-Humphreys, chair.In 1996 Dr. Magda Iskander founded Care With Love (CWL). CWL was the first institution of its kind to train marginalized youth to provide high-quality, affordable home health care. With over 1000 graduates to date, CWL is now fully self-sustainable.Seeking to multiply her impact, Dr. Magda has been the driving force behind the creation of the Health and Hope Oasis, a residential facility offering nutrition and hygiene training for families of children with cancer. In 2010, the Oasis will begin serving 150 people with expanding capacity to serve 300.Dr. Magda’s work has been recognized by The Ashoka Foundation, the Ford Foundation, the Egyptian Ministry of Social Affairs, the Acumen Foundation, and the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services.  

B. Higher Education: In collaboration with the POJ, the Union Presbyterian SeminaryField Education placement office has appointed student Kelley Lane to The Pace Center, VCU. The Committee seeks to also promote and celebrate all our POJ churches that have a campus ministry outreach. Alice Todd, chair.

C. Self-Development of People (SDOP): The PC (USA) is awarding an additional $15,000 to the POJ for grants this year (over $27,000 total available). The SDOP Committee must be majority racial ethnic Presbyterian, and is looking for new members. Marsha Luckett, chair.

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D. Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy (VICPP)Priorities for VICPP remain: At-risk children, Reform of Healthcare system, Criminal justice, Housing/homelessness, Care for God’s creation, Immigration, Poverty & hunger, the Working Poor, recently highlighting Healthcare Reform. The Annual Meeting of VICPP is Thursday, December 3, at 6 p.m. at the Library of Virginia. Keynote speaker John A. Calhoun, author of Hope Matters (stories of how people became involved in work on various peace and justice issues because of their faith). Light snacks, free, and open to all.

A Presbyterian Day at the General Assembly is planned for February 2010, and need others to help in a planning task force (See Nancy Summerlin, Mary Johns).

E. Hunger: The Committee met with visitors from the Matthew 28 Project in Haiti, who brought news about the growing provision of food via fish (tilapia) ponds.POJ churches are encouraged to join the 5 Cents a Meal offerings to support the hungry in these initiatives (and not to wait till the end of the year).

II. THE BOARD REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS: 

A. Approved the first quarter 2009 Hunger distribution: Disbursements for funds currently available:

Cove Presbyterian Church (Orr Child Dev. Ctr.) $1,000.Second Presbyterian Church (Walk in ministry) $2,500.Home Again (Emergency Shelter) $3,000.McClure River Valley Comm. Dev. Ctr. $2,000.Meals On Wheels $2,500.Ixtatan Foundation (Beth Neville Evans) $2,000.Matthew 28 (Orphanage) $3,600.Society of St. Andrew (Gleaning Network) $1,000.Philippines vocational school food program $1,000.

TOTAL $18,600.

B. Approved Peacemaking Committee’s grants for Presbyterians Encouraging Peace (PEP): *$1,000 grant to First Things First, St. Giles Presbyterian, in an initiative for reducing violence and abuse in teen dating.

* $1,000 grant to Westminster Presbyterian, Charlottesville’s Young Adult Volunteer in Mission to Ireland

III.THE BOARD HAS NO CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS.

IV. THE BOARD MAKES NO RECOMMENDATIONS AT THIS TIME.The Presbytery was honored to have Mission worker Dr. Magda Iskander, Egypt, attend this Presbytery meeting as part of the PC (USA) Mission Challenge ’09. She spoke to the

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Presbytery on the work which she and others are doing in the name of Christ and on behalf of the Presbyterian Church (USA).

ORDER OF THE DAY: 12:00 pm: Implementation Task Group

REPORT OF THE IMPLEMENTATION TASK GROUPRev. Richard Haney and Rev. Michelle James reporting

Written report, slides and questions and answers are found in Appendix V.

The Implementation Task Group moved the following, (1) the adoption of the new structure as presented in the slide presentation and (2) the following timetable:

Oct 2009 Adoption of new structure as presentedFeb 2010 Adoption of detailed new structure with necessary changes in the Presbytery

ManualMar 2010 Begin Season of Transition (March—December 2010)Jan 2011 Begin ministry under guidelines of New Structure & New Strategy

The motion from the Implementation Task Group was voted on. The motion passed.

ORDER OF THE DAY 1:30 pm: Sermons for Ordination were heard in two locations.

COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY (continued)Rev. Rosalind Banbury, Moderator –Examinations, COM, continued the report.

Candidate Gail Monsma, Lake Michigan Presbytery, was examined for ordination & installation as Associate Pastor, Second Presbyterian Church, Richmond, VA. Sermon: “Called By Name." Scripture was John 15:15-17, Isaiah 43: 1-3a.

The examination was sustained in its entirety and the Presbytery voted to request Lake Michigan Presbytery to ordain Gail Monsma; the Presbytery of the James will install her as Associate Pastor, Second Presbyterian Church, Richmond, VA. (Appendix X)

Candidate Chad McCain, POJ, was examined for ordination in a validated ministry as Military Chaplain pending evidence of a call from the military. Sermon: “All Things Considered,” Scripture was I Kings 2:10-12 and I Kings 3: 3-14.

The examination was sustained in its entirety and the Presbytery voted to ordain Chad McCain in a validated ministry as Military Chaplain pending evidence of a call from the military. (Appendix XI)

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRYElder Jack Corley, Moderator, reporting

I. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING FOR INFORMATION:A. Of the 32 persons under care at this time, 13 are inquirers and 19 are candidates. Of the candidates, 6 are ready to be examined for ordination, pending a call.B. Inquirers and candidates are earning, or have earned, their M.Div. degree at the following institutions: Union-PSCE (23); Princeton (5); Columbia (1); Dubuque (1); Regent (1); Bethel (1).

II. THE COMMITTEE REPORTS THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS:A. Removed, at her request, Scarlett Sams from the roll of inquirers (June 23). B. Approved the following 2010 budget request: Scholarships $22,000; Psychological

evaluations $2,500; CPM Administration $1,500; Travel $1,500; Total $27,500 (June 23).

C. Approved, on the basis of annual consultations with Chad McCain (June 23), Esta Jarrett (Aug 25), Noell Rathbun (Aug 25), and Quincy Worthington (Aug 25), their continuing in the process of preparation.

D. Appointed Brenda Halbrooks as Allison Unroe’s liaison (June 23). E. Approved the following financial aid grants: Aram Bae $1,000; Todd

Davidson, $3,000; Katie Francis,$2,000; Stephen Hitchcock, $1,000; Ginna Irby, $300; Inho Kang, $3,000; Gina Maio,$750; Karen Rohrer,$2,000; Lisa Salita,$2,000 (Aug 25).

F. Decided to ask the Administrative Board that presbytery’s candidacy examination be an order of the day (Aug 25).

G. Decided to encourage, but not require, inquirers to write out the five-minute statement for the presbytery’s candidacy examination (Aug 25).

H. Approved inviting inquirers and candidates to apply for financial aid to help pay the cost of the preparation process, and not merely the cost of seminary education (Aug 25).

I. Decided to include in its written report to presbytery the number of inquirers and candidates currently in the preparation process (Aug 25).

J. Interviewed Susan Butterworth (River Road) and enrolled her as an inquirer, appointing George Whipple as her liaison (Aug 25).

K. Interviewed Chad McCain (Richmond Second) and certified him ready to be examined for ordination, pending a call (Aug 25).

III. CONSENT DOCKET RECOMMENDATIONS: [No recommendations]

IV. COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS WERE APPROVED:A. Stephen Hitchcock (Meadows) was enrolled as a candidate for the ministry of

the Word and Sacrament.

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REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON NOMINATIONS (Continued)Steve Hodges reporting - No additional actions

Moderator Rev. John Storey closed the meeting with prayer. The meeting adjourned at 3:05 PM. The Presbytery will meet for its 74th Stated Meeting on February 20, 2010, at a place to be determined.

___________________________ _____________________John D. Storey H. Carson Rhyne, Jr.Moderator Stated Clerk

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