You can view the meeting in its entirely on our  Facebook Page, including the worship service. You can follow along with the Order of Worship.

Meeting ReCAP

The summer 2021 meeting of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery was held on Saturday, September 18, at 80-plus locations (more if Facebook live viewers are included).  Since covid-19 and its variants have made in person gatherings unwise, each pastor, commissioner and guest attended from the comfort of their chosen electronic device. 

Once again, the best of a zoom meeting was exemplified by the worship. Rev. Will Robinson preached the sermon “You are In the Spirit,” from Romans 8:1-9, the considerable musical talents of members of First Presbyterian Hilton Head were on display, elders from a variety of churches prayed and read, and Rev. Cecelia Armstrong celebrated the sacrament of the Lord’s supper.

Special guest Sy Hughes of the Presbyterian Mission Agency brought greetings and a report form that entity.  Rev. Colin Kerr gave an update on campus ministry in the Charleston Area. The stated clerk clarified that the next CAP meeting is Tuesday Dec. 14.  At that meeting, commissioners to the 225th General Assembly will be elected.  

Elections also will be held in December for the many vacancies that will be opening on various presbytery teams, committees, and commissions. The Committee on Representation, reporting through Rev. Lissa Long,  is actively seeking nominations for these positions, as well as for GA Commissioners.  To find out more, CHECK THE CHATLINE where a copy of the meeting handbook—including information about GA and the openings COR needs to fill—can be read by anyone, not just meeting attendees.

Also by accessing the handbook, the reader can experience much of the business of the meeting, since most teams, committees and commissions submitted reports that were not changed or expanded upon during the meeting.  Elder Sandra Otero did address the meeting on behalf of the Service to Others Ministry Team, reporting that the team hopes to hold the previously postponed Puerto Rico mission trip March 20-26 of 2022.

The first reading of the 2022 budget was submitted by the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team.  Team moderator Peter Jones reported that the budget is a “work in progress’ since it does not appear that contributions from the congregations that comprise the presbytery will be sufficient to fund even the reduced budget.  He acknowledged that many churches also have seen their givings fall off during the pandemic, but encouraged all pastors and commissioners to return to their sessions and start the conversation of whether their church is giving what it can.  The full financial report and the 2022 anticipated budget can be found in the Handbook and its Supplement. Ruling Elder James Deavor was recognized to speak and pointed out that CAP’s support of the General Assembly and Synod are similarly lacking.

Two teaching elder members of presbytery, Rev, Charles Heyward and Rev. Isaac Moore (both honorably retired yet still serving congregations) spoke up and personally pledged direct monetary support for the presbytery.  They encouraged other teaching and ruling elders to do the same.  By the close of the meeting, at least one other pastor had also pledge support. Anyone who wishes to do the same may send a check to the presbytery marked “direct support of presbytery budget.”

A high point of each meeting is the video of “Joys and Concerns.”  This slideshow of pictures submitted by churches across the presbytery is reassuring evidence that the church continues its work: congregations find ways to engage in fellowship and mission, to work together, to pray together, and to have fun.  

CAP Moderator Rev. Spike Coleman also opened the floor (and attendees’ microphones) for on the spot sharing of joys and requests for prayer. After prayer accordingly, he pronounced benediction and the meeting closed.

For more information, read THE HANDBOOK and SUPPLEMENT. 

The Spring Stated Meeting of Charleston Atlantic Presbytery was held Tuesday, May 18 via Zoom. You can view the meeting on Facebook Live.

ReCAP

DID YOU KNOW?  That the Handbook for the Spring Stated Meeting is available for anyone to read on the CAP website?  Well it is, so if this ReCap sparks an interest, one may find out more by “referring to the handbook.”

Despite some technical difficulties, the Spring Meeting of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery was another success in the face of social distancing.  About 100 individuals participated in the zoom meeting, which also was streamed on Facebook Live. Worship was presented in pre-recorded segments allowing worshippers a peek inside the sanctuaries of the various churches from which elders, pastors and musicians participated. The Rev. Tracey Daniel brought the message on “The Good Shepherd.” Rev. James Rogers led communion.  

Three guests made presentations.  The Rev. Joyce Lieberman, Executive Presbyter and Stated Clerk of the Synod of South Atlantic, Olanda Carr, Senior Ministry Relations officer of the Presbyterian Foundation, and Lauren Thompson, Advancement Officer of  The Thormwell Home for Children expanded on the written reports they had submitted in advance and which are in the handbook.

Nothing illustrates our presbytery as beautifully and succinctly as the “Celebration of Joys’ video.  Since Dorothy Blackwelder had this idea a few years ago, the photo submissions from congregations have been a a great way to show the many ways our many congregations are doing ministry. During this time of Covid, it is especially heartening to see the creative ways Presbyterians are continuing to connect within their own churches and in the greater community.  A big thank you goes out to all who contribute these photos.

As Stated clerk, it was my joy to report that preparations are under way for the 225^th General Assembly to be held in June of next year.  The assembly will be a hybrid meeting, with commissioners meeting in person in committees in Louisville, but all plenary sessions via Zoom.  Dates and calendar are in the Handbook with more information on the PC(USA) website.

The Commission on Ministry introduced the Rev. Margaret Fleming, who has been ordained by the presbytery to service as a hospital chaplain. Rev. Fleming was under care of the CAP Committee on Preparation for ministry. The Committee on Preparation for Ministry introduced two new inquirers joining those currently under care.

Rev. Lissa Long and Elder Cassandra Roper, speaking out of their own experience, encouraged all elders and ministers of word and sacrament to consider serving on one of the presbytery agencies. Anyone who is interested in the opportunities to serve in the presbytery should review the report of the Committee on Representation.  It contains descriptions of all the commissions, committees, and teams of the Presbytery, all of which will need new members to be nominated for 2022.  New members to fill certain spots for 2021 were placed in nomination and approved.  The COR currently has a vacancy which needs to be filled for 2021.  

The Shepherding Team presented various resolutions all of which passed.  As a result, two churches, Lowcountry PC and Hebron Zion PC, will receive the deeds to their church real estate to hold in trust.  Zion Olivet was approved to pursue the purchase of the Advent Lutheran property in which it has nested since selling its property in downtown Charleston. At the recommendation of the Shepherding Team, the presbytery approved the creation of a new commission:  The “CAP Presbyterian Disaster Commission” will be a part of the South Carolina Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Commission.  Descriptions of the commission and the initial members elected by the presbytery can be found in the handbook.

Four Churches in the Presbytery have been recognized as PC(USA) Earth Care Congregations:  Dorchester PC, James Island PC, Lowcountry PC and St Andrews PC (Charleston).  A description of the Earth Care program is in the Handbook.  Cap Moderator, Rev Spike Coleman (pastor of St. Andrews) encouraged other churches to consider becoming an earth Care Congregation.

Service to Others Committee is very busy, planning, among other things, a vaccine clinic to be held at the Presbytery Office in June and a possible mission trip to Puerto Rico in October.  

Nurture Ministry also highlighted its work in their report in the Handbook.  In speaking for the ministry, Rev Brian Henderson called for youth to serve on the Youth Council.

The Presbyterian Women submitted a written report, but Elder Linda Rousseau also spoke, saying it was an honor to be Moderator of the PW.  She encouraged participation in PW activities, noting that “all women who are Presbyterian are Presbyterian Women!”

Alas, not all news reported was good: So many great things are happening in our presbytery, yet we are running over the rather barebones budget carefully crafted by the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team and approved by the presbytery last December. Peter Jones, the team moderator reported the shortfall is due individual churches not giving as projected.  

Currently, the next CAP meeting is scheduled to be a zoom meeting on September 18.  We hope and pray that by December we will be able to meet again in person.

Respectfully Submitted

Catherine D. Byrd, Stated Clerk

Winter Meeting 2021 ReCAP

At the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery Winter Meeting 2020—a year ago—none of the plans we had going forward included learning how to function remotely.  But Winter Meeting 2021 proved we have learned.  Call to order on Saturday February 27, 2021, didn’t occur until 10:15, not because of technical problems, which would have been this stated clerk’s fear a year ago, but because the STEPS team of the Nurture Ministry Team presented their second electronic STEPS (Studying, Teaching, Equipping, Praying, Serving) event starting at 9:00.  Three workshops were offered and were well attended from throughout our presbytery and beyond; at least one participant attended from his home in Colorado!

Worship followed closely upon the call to order.  Once again the electronic format allowed attendance in ways we would not have imagined last year.  Music was provided by Dr. JooSoo Son, Traditional Music Director at Providence Presbyterian Church on Hilton, head playing that church’s organ and piano.  Rev. Cibele Santos Associate Pastor at Providence preached the sermon, “Prayer, Unite Us,” from Providence’s pulpit.  For the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, worshippers were transported to Hebron Zion PC on Johns Island where Rev. Patricia Jones pronounced the words of institution.  Other worship leaders participated from James Island PC, Bethel PC (Johns Island), and Edisto PC.  Works of art relating to parts of the service were shown on screen, presented by “A Sanctified Art, LLC” which had presented one of the STEPS workshops. You can view the worship service HERE and download the worship bulletin HERE so you can follow along.

During the business portion of the meeting, Stephen McDonald, Camp Director of Bethelwoods Camp and Conference Center, presented the exciting news that Bethelwoods is planning for summer programs! There will be opportunities onsite at Bethelwoods, a one week day camp at the new CAP facility at Park Circle, and “Camp in a Van” opportunities for churches almost anywhere.  Covid shutdowns dealt Bethelwoods quite a blow in 2020, and Stephen thanked CAP for its monetary support, which helped the camp persevere.

The moderator of the Committee on Representation, Rev. Cameron Smith, was live in person via zoom to report on vacancies on CAP teams and committees.  She emphasized the importance of having members participate from across the presbytery, both Ruling Elders and Ministers of Word and Sacrament.  Vacancies and Opportunities will be listed in the Chatline.

The co-moderator of Service to Others Ministry Team, Sandro Otero, reported that plans are underway to plan a return mission to Puerto Rico, if the COVID-19 way be clear, next fall.   Additional work of that team was presented in the written report in the handbook and as part of the “Celebration of Joys” video that was played during the meeting.

The Celebration of Joys video also revealed the ways congregations across the presbytery have met the Covid challenges and moved their ministries outdoors (not just for worship but also for programs, fellowship and outreach), into spaces allowing for social distancing while masked, and online (many a shepherd and little angel are now on video for posterity).  The creativity of our members is wonderful.  

THE HANDBOOK contains the full reports of all ministry teams, committees and commissions. The work of the Shepherding Team, the Commission on Ministry, the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team, The Preparation for Ministry Team, Nurture Ministry Team and other information of interest are contained therein.  The reader does not have to have been a commissioner or even in attendance at the meeting to benefit from this information.  Questions or comments can be address to the moderator of each or to the stated clerk.

Submitted respectfully and with great joy,

Catherine Byrd, Stated Clerk

Fall 2020 ReCAP

The Charleston Atlantic Presbytery held its “Fall” Stated Meeting on a day that felt almost like winter in the lowcountry, Tuesday, December 8, 2020. Elder commissioners and pastors from across the presbytery attended the “Zoom” meeting from the comfort of their own homes or offices.  The electronic format also provided a unique worship experience, since each portion of the service was prerecorded in a different location, then blended through the efforts of Michael Hardy of Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Church Staff and Rev. Dorothy Blackwelder, the CAP Director of Communications. A particular thank you goes to the combined choirs of the James Island churches, who have mastered the art of choral singing when everyone is in a different place.  Our outgoing Moderator, Susan Mellichamp, brought the message “Loving as Jesus Loved,” and Commissioned Ruling Elder Karey Poinsette officiated over communion.

Seated as a corresponding member, Elizabeth Little of the Board of Pensions of the PCUSA, highlighted some recent and prospective changes to BOP benefits and programs.  Sy Hughes, the Mission Engagement Advisor for our area from the Presbyterian Mission Agency also was seated as a corresponding member and spoke briefly of that entity’s work, including the invitation for congregations to become “Matthew 25” churches. Elizabeth and Sy are available to anyone who has questions about the work of their agencies of the PC(USA) and their work is funded by the contributions of presbyteries. 

The Stated Clerk’s report included, among other things, reference to the “In Memorium” list included in the Handbook.  We lost four current members of our presbytery last year plus six others who had served us at one time or the other.  They were remembered in prayer by the moderator at the close of the meeting.

Shepherding Team Moderator Rev. Sam Martin asked, and the Presbytery agreed that the Park Circle Administrative Commission, formed in 2016 when the Park Circle Presbyterian Church was dissolved, be dismissed with thanks.  The Shepherding Team also recommended, and the Presbytery agreed, that $40,000 from the CAP “Camp Fund” be earmarked to assist Bethelwoods Camp and Conference Center with its expected $92,000 budget deficit for 2020.  (The Presbytery budget for 2021, passed later in the meeting also includes the usual line-item contribution to the ongoing work of Bethelwoods.)  The Shepherding Team also included a written report in the handbook about these items, New Church Development, and the Building-Use Subcommittee.

The presbytery was presented with a slate of volunteers to be elected to positions in the presbytery.  All were approved, including, of note: the Moderator of Presbytery for 2021, Rev George “Spike” Coleman and moderator elect, Elder Kent Grimes.

STEPS Co-Chair, Rev. Laurey Harrell reported on the “electronic STEPS” held in September.  Continuing “to do a new thing…”  in the face of Covid-19 protocols, STEPS will be presented for the first time outside of its usual September date.  A variety of STEPS learning opportunities will be presented in conjunction with the February 27, 2021, CAP Winter meeting, available without charge to commissioners and to anyone else who chooses to participate.

The budget for 2021 was presented by the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team moderator Peter Jones, and was passed after only a few questions and responses. The Committee on Preparation for Ministry congratulated two candidates, Margaret Fleming and Terri Wetherell who are now designated as “ready to receive a call” to be ordained. The Commission on ministry presented Rev. Cibele Santos, a newly ordained and installed addition to the pastoral staff of Providence Presbyterian Church in Hilton Head.

The electronic format of the meeting made it easy to check in with mission partners in Honduras, as Service to Others Ministry Team Moderators Sandra Otero and Antonio Colon-Roman presented a short update on the devastation wreaked by back-to-back hurricanes this fall.  Information on how to help was included (you can give to the Presbyterian Church in Honduras or to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Hurricane Relief Fund).  CAP Moderator pointed out that electronic worship at this and September’s meeting did not include taking up an offering, and suggested donations be made in lieu.  

The reports of the above and other agencies of the presbytery were received as information.  They can be found in the handbook on the CAP website. 

The meeting closed with a service commissioning the new moderator and vice moderator. Outgoing moderator Susan Mellichamp presented the gavel to incoming moderator Spike Coleman, who closed the meeting with prayer and benediction.

For more information, read the Handbook and Supplement. You can also view the entire recorded Zoom meeting or the worship service alone.

Resolution of Thanks

Ruling Elders, Teaching Elders, and others from near and far

Established the presence of the church and didn’t really use cars

Susan’s dash will include trusting, obeying and her great leadership

Opportunities to vote were offered for commissioners in attendance

Lots of cheers to Dorothy, Michael, and others for all the technical work

Uniquely allowing us to gather and not one of us went berserk

Thanks for our new building where we can gather and meet

In a few weeks or months or whenever outside is clean

Online or in person we are grateful for sure

Never missing the chance to give God glory galore

Of course, we have many, many reasons for giving God thanks

Far too many to list, but at least 97 reasons were among the ranks

Today our thanks include but is not limited to

Hearing from our guests and all the work that they do

Also hearing reports from committees who work very hard

New moderator and moderate elect are now even on board

Keep welcoming new ministers, attend STEPS, and uphold this balanced budget

Seems like we are well on our way to a new season that we won’t soon forget

A RESOLUTION OF THANKS can be really serious or fun

The letters of the words were used to get this important work done

Submitted by Rev. Cecelia D. Armstrong

ReCap: Charleston Atlantic Presbytery Summer Meeting

After having to cancel the Spring Meeting and Convocation due to Covid-19 concerns, the presbytery (staff, shepherding team and strategy team) realized it had to do what so many of our churches already had perfected: embrace “Zoom” as a means to meet remotely.  The resulting Summer Meeting held on September 19, 2020, was a great success, with 91 participants in the zoom meeting and many others viewing via Facebook Live.  A team of four–Susan Mellichamp, moderator, Rev, Donnie Woods, in his position as associate stated clerk, Rev Dorothy Blackwelder, CAP director of communication, and Michael Hardy, staff member of Mount Pleasant Presbyteryian Church–presented the meeting live from the MPPC Fellowship Hall.  All voting members in attendance had previously attended a training session in order to prepare for the meeting.

Despite their physical distance, first time commissioners and guests were introduced as always, The Rev. Joyce Liberman was seated as a corresponding member, to continue as long as her tenure as Synod of South Atlantic Executive and Stated Clerk 

Before the majority of the business was conducted, worship was led by Rev. Spike Coleman, CAP Vice Moderator, whose worship team had prepared and pre-recorded the elements of the service in a way that integrated seamlessly into the order of worship.  An advantage of the format was that segments were presented from different churches, and the message was presented from the front seat of the Westminster PC church van!  Rev. Lissa Long and Cap Director of Youth Ministry Janie Bruce delivered a meditation based on the 16th chapter of Exodus, drawing parallels to our current time “in the wilderness.” Also included were musical offerings by members of St. Andrews and James Island Presbyterian Churches, and communion led by Rev. Dr. Donnie Woods.

The Commission on Ministry welcomed two new minister members to the presbytery.  Rev. Ralph Herbert and Rev. Joseph (Bo) Welch each spoke a few minutes on their faith and current call.  New graduates from seminary, Margaret Flemming and Teri Wetherall, were congratulated by the Committee on Preparation for Ministry. The “CPM” also presented the examination of inquirer Catherine Parler, whose move to Candidacy Status was approved by the body.

The moderator and her team adeptly handled debate and comment on a motion to sell property the presbytery owns in the Can Bay subdivision.  Distance was not an impediment to discussion of this topic.  Ultimately the motion did not pass.

The first reading of the 2021 Budget was presented by the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team and accepted by the body. The Committee on Representation highlighted its annual report on the diversity of presbytery officers and members of teams, committees and commissions.  “COR” moderator James Deavor also made a request for nominations for positions on these entities.  Without adequate volunteers from throughout the presbytery, the work of the presbytery cannot be accomplished.

You can read more in the HANDBOOK and view the full recorded meeting HERE. If you want to see just a portion of the meeting, you can view the Worship Service, COM New Minister Introductions, and CPM’s New Candidate individually. You can also view the Presbytery Joys Video Below:

CAP Winter Meeting ReCap

Lowcountry Presbyterian Church in Bluffton hosted the Winter Stated Meeting of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery on Saturday, February 22, 2020.  A highlight of the welcome by the host church was its “History in Song” written and performed by church member Dale Nordby.  LPC celebrated its 25^th anniversary last year, and has done, and continues to do a lot of great things.  See their written history in the meeting handbook.

“Something Else is Happening” Rev. Brian C. Henderson of St James Presbyterian Church told those assembled in his sermon, based on I Corinthians 1:18, during the opening worship, which included Holy Communion.  An offering in the amount of $1,407.50 was received to support the work of the mission team going to Puerto Rico March 21-28.  The members of the Puerto Rico Mission Team and the Commissioners and Young Adult Advisory Delegate to the General Assembly in Baltimore June 20-27 all were commissioned during the service. Learn more about our commissioners HERE.

Stephen McDonald, the Camp Director for Bethelwoods Camp and Conference Center, spoke about upcoming summer sessions at the camp.  This year a bus will be available to transport campers from the lowcountry to Bethelwoods for three of the week long sessions.  He also introduced Lexi Green, a new camp staff member. 

Charlie Frost spoke about the Hymn Society, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians (PAM), and the Montreat Music and Worship Conference. He encouraged those interested to consider joining the first two organizations.  He also announced a new grant, The St. Phillips Grant, available from the PAM for attendance at either of the two sessions of the Montreat Music and Worship Conference.  Churches are encouraged to apply to defray the cost of attendance.

The Presbytery Joys Video was shared. Thank you to all of the churches who sent in pictures. We hope to see your church represented in May!

The Shepherding Team had much to report, including news about the ongoing renovations at the former Park Circle Church.  The work is underway, with occupancy of the presbytery offices scheduled for May, if all goes as planned. Parkside NCD continues to have steady attendance. The newest CAP staff member, Bob Ingram, who will work part time as bookkeeper, was introduced.  Long time CAP Director of Administration, Barbara Burger will be retiring at the end of May.  The personnel subcommittee of Shepherding is working on a staffing model for the future.

The Stated Clerk gave a “shout-out” for pastors and church members to think about more actively funding the work of the presbytery, including its contributions to the Office of the General Assembly and the Synod. 

The Commission on Ministry introduced the Rev. Tracey Daniel, the new Associate Pastor at First (Scots) PC in Charleston and Elder Eugene Richardson who will be commissioned as Commissioned Lay Pastor at St. Andrews PC on Johns Island. Each shared a bit about their faith journey and vision for their new call. COM also celebrated Rev. Ashley Sanders’ new call as installed pastor of the Presbyterian Church on Edisto Island. She shared the many ways she has experienced God’s grace in her 13 years as a member of CAP and 5 years as Temporary Pastor of PCEI. Her family and and many members of her church were present to support her and this new call.

The Service to Others Ministry Team, Moderated by Sandra Otero and Antonio Colon-Roman, submitted a written report of its many activities, but also reported that the presbytery-wide Day of Service, scheduled for March 7 has been postponed. Watch the Chatline for news about rescheduling.

Reports of all the Teams, Committees and Commissions of the presbytery can be found in the HANDBOOK and SUPPLEMENT.

New Moderator, Susan Mellichamp, conducted the meeting efficiently and effectively, concluding with prayer at 12:30, in time to enjoy a wonderful lunch provided by the host church.

Respectfully submitted by Catherine Byrd, Stated Clerk

Williston Presbyterian Church hosted the Fall Charleston Atlantic Presbytery Meeting, with great hospitality and charm. The members of the congregation went all out to be sure attendees were directed to parking, registration, coffee, etc., and of course to the recently renovated sanctuary, beautifully decorated for Christmas. Of note were the advent banner and communion set that were brought from Barnwell Presbyterian Church, which has made the difficult decision to close. Many of its members have begun worshipping at Williston and some were volunteering to help make the presbytery meeting a success.

Outgoing moderator, Rev. Sam Martin, brought the message during worship using the words of baseball great Ted Williams and Bible great John the Baptist. Rev. Martin once played pro baseball and avers “there is so much theology in baseball, y’all.” His reaction to being critiqued by the baseball legend in a practice session illuminates the reaction we all may have to being confronted with John the Baptist. It can be irritating to be told to change our ways, to turn our stance around, to try something different when we are sure we already know what we are doing.

After worship, four guests brought greetings and information: Stefanie Marsden called attention to the financial services of the Texas Presbyterian Foundation, which despite its name, serves Presbyterians throughout the country. Elizabeth Little highlighted several positive changes at the PC (USA) Board of Pensions, including the abolishment of vacancy dues and the positive effects of the menu plan option recently added to the medical benefits. Stephen McDonald, Camp Director of the Bethelwoods Camp and Conference Center, gave an update on Camp activities. Joyce Lieberman, the executive Presbytery and Stated Clerk of the Synod of South Atlantic highlighted some of the services of the Synod. Of particular note is its Association of Smaller Congregations which holds an annual retreat and which administers the Mary Hemphill Fund, a designated fund to be used for structural repair, replacement, renovation, and improvement to the church building, for small congregations (100 members or less) in the state of South Carolina. Deadline for the application for a grant from the fund is December 31st. Click HERE for the application to the Hemphill Grant for small congregations.

The Committee on Representation presented nominees for membership on presbytery committees, commissions and teams for 2020, nominees for Moderator and Vice Moderator, nominees for Synod Commissioners, and nominees for Commissioners and a Young Adult Advisory Delegate to the 224th General Assembly of the PC(USA) to be held this summer in Baltimore. Members of an Administrative Commission for dissolving the Barnwell Presbyterian Church also were elected. GA Commissioners wil be Elder Priscilla Holztclaw, Elder Irene Whaley, Rev. Patricia Jones and Rev. Patrick Perryman. Alternates are Elder Betty Bryan and Rev. Lisa Schrott. Click HERE for a complete list of newly elected members of presbytery teams, committees and commissions.

The Commission on Ministry introduced two new pastors it recently examined and received into the presbytery: Dr. Annette brewer is the new pastor at Wallingford Presbyterian Church and Dr. William E. Robinson is the new senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church on Hilton Head.

The Commission also introduced to individuals recently commissioned a Commissioned Pastors: Henry Meeuwse will serve Bethel Presbyterian Church in Walterboro. Bo Hamilton will serve at The Village in Summerville, while continuing to serve at Summerville Presbyterian Church.

After some discussion, the budget proposed by the Stewardship of Financial Gifts of Ministry Team was passed. Two things which came out of the discussion: First, we would be in better financial shape if more churches followed the lead of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Hollywood and paid a true per capita towards the work of the presbytery and the denomination. Second, there are people in our presbytery who have knowledge and ideas in the area of finance who would be valuable members of the SOFGOMT. (The moderator of the team, Peter Jones, and the moderator of the Committee on Representation, James Deavor, are the people to contact if you are interested.)

It was with great joy that the Park Circle Commission, led by Rev. Mike Fitze, reported that the sale of the current presbytery office on Ashely River Road for $1,502,500.00 closed on November 22, 2019, after a three and a half year effort. The presbytery may remain in the building for four months past the date of closing. Presbytery offices will be moved to a portion of the education building of the former Park Circle Presbyterian Church. The balance of the education building and the sanctuary will be converted into flexible space for meetings and mission. The Park Circle Commission was authorized to spend up to $1,400,000.00 from the proceeds of the sale of the Ashely River Road Property for the renovations to the Park Circle Property.
Elder Susan Mellichamp was commissioned as the new moderator of the Presbytery. She received the gavel from outgoing moderator Sam Martin and then closed the meeting with prayer and a benediction.

Respectfully Submitted by Catherine Byrd, State Clerk

The Summer 2019 stated meeting of Charleston Atlantic Presbytery was held September 21, 2019 at Zion-Olivet Presbyterian Church.

ReCAP:

Before the summer stated meeting of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery even started, commissioners had a great opportunity for food and fellowship, courtesy of the host church. Members of Zion Olivet Presbyterian Church cooked a full hot breakfast so everyone would be ready for the morning ahead. Good thing too—there was a lot to cover before commissioners could break for the equally delicious lunch also prepared by the church members.
Most first time commissioners took advantage of the orientation session offered at 9:00. The Moderator, Rev. Sam Martin, called the meeting to order precisely at 9:30. After introductions of visitors, including Kyle Collins, the new director of the Journey campus ministry, and the first time commissioners, the docket was approved and it was time to worship.

The Rev. Carolyn Kurtz-Heyward preached on “The Healthy Church” using scripture including Psalm 15:1-5 and Luke23:26-27. An offering (of over $900) was collected to benefit the Reverend Dr. Katie Cannon Scholarship Fund. Communion was served and some favorite hymns sung, helping to make worship an inspiring experience.

The Commission on Ministry introduced two pastors who have just begun serving congregations in Charleston Atlantic. Rev. Zachary Bragg is the new Associate Pastor of Dorchester Presbyterian Church. Rev. Anita Herbert is the new Senior Pastor at Summerville Presbyterian Church. They came to the meeting as members of this presbytery, having been examined and accepted by the Commission on Ministry. Each shared a little of the path that led them to CAP and their new calls.

The assembly also heard from one of our future ministers of word and sacrament. The Preparation for Ministry Team introduced Columbia Theological Seminary student Margaret Fleming, who was moving from Inquirer to Candidate. After sharing a bit of her faith journey, she answered questions propounded by the moderator and was welcomed to candidacy status by Rev. Richard Cushman.

Other highlights included the presentation by elder Lawrence Whaley on behalf of the Nurture Ministry Team, who spoke on the positive impact the 2019 Youth Triennium had on the youth from CAP congregations who attended. Rev. Colin Kerr reported on the planning and preparation that preceded the opening services on the Parkside Church NCD (new church development) and the plans for its future. Educating the participants on reformed theology, the Book of Order and other things Presbyterian is ongoing as the congregation plans to become a fully charted PC (USA) congregation in the future! Rev. Cameron Smith, moderator of the Service to Others Ministry Team, highlighted just a few of the outreach ministries that team has initiated and oversees. Opportunities for service abound. Among them are two mission trip opportunities: one to the U.S. / Mexico border Nov. 8-10, 2019 and to Puerto Rico March 21-28, 2020. Closer to home, the first annual Presbytery-Wide Day of Service will be held on January 25, 2020.

The Shepherding Team reported on the ongoing efforts to close the sale of the Hwy 61 presbytery office, in anticipation of moving to the Park Circle property.
The Committee on Representation, a.k.a. “COR” (which nominates members to all CAP commissions, committees and team), the Shepherding Team and The Service to Others Ministry Team held a breakout session for all in attendance to gather in their presbytery “neighborhoods.” They were encouraged to discuss their own outreach efforts and how the STOMT might assist them, fill out a survey on the “neighborhood” structure and hear more about the need to volunteer and recommend other volunteers for service to the presbytery. The teams, committees and commissions are essential to the work of the presbytery. COR can be sure the geographic, ethnic, age and gender diversity of our presbytery is reflected in its work ONLY if they have volunteers to nominate that also reflect this diversity.

Many thanks to the Rev. Sidney Davis and the members of Zion Olivet for the work and hospitality that made the Summer Stated Meeting a success. The next meeting will be held on December 10, 2019, at Williston Presbyterian. Although technically it will be the “Fall” meeting, There is every chance that this lovely church will have its beautiful Christmas decorations for all to enjoy. Be there!
Catherine Byrd, Stated Clerk

For more information about the business of the meeting, read the HANDBOOK and SUPPLEMENT.

Joys from the Summer 2019:

The Spring 2019 Stated Meeting of Charleston Atlantic Presbytery was held Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at First Presbyterian Church, Moncks Corner.

ReCAP

On arrival, commissioners and guests were greeted warmly by church members and offered a delicious selection of breakfast items. The Rev. Sam Martin, Moderator, opened the meeting in prayer, the Rev. Timothy Schoonover of First Presbyterian Moncks Corner gave a welcome and invited one of the church elders to give a history of the church. New commissioners and guests were introduced. In particular, a group of visitors from the Can Bay Presbyterian New Church Development were recognized and invited to speak about recent events at Cane Bay NCD. Earlier this year, the congregation and their organizing pastor parted ways, realizing they had different visions for the future. With the guidance and assistance of a new advisory team from the presbytery, the NCD is “doing a reset.” They have found a storefront to lease that will afford them exclusive space for office, worship and activities, rather than renting space for Sundays only. A retired PC(USA) minister in the group has agreed to preach. The group asked that the presbytery approve the four year lease being proposed by the Shepherding Team, to be voted on later in the meeting.

Worship included communion and a sermon by the Rev. Peter Bynum, who expounded on the parable of the mustard seed. Seeds “live and wait and live and wait,” he said, and even forgotten seeds can one day emerge from the ground, grow and bear fruit. The offering collected to support youth attendance at the Youth Triennium was seen as a way to help sow and nurture the seeds of discipleship.

An outstanding example of seeds bearing fruit was the ordination of Colin Kerr as a minister of the word and sacrament. It is rare that the presbytery ordains a new minister; usually they are ordained by the congregation of the church they will serve, or, sometimes, their home church. Because Rev. Kerr will be the organizing pastor of the Parkside Presbyterian New Church Development, the presbytery is the ordaining body. A charge to the Pastor was made by Rev. Will Deitrich.

During the business portion of the meeting, special presentations were made concerning the Presbyterian Communities of South Carolina, Hands of Christ, S.T.E.P.S. and the recent mission trip to Puerto Rico.

The Committee on Representation asked for a received affirmative votes on the nominations of Rev. Ashley Sanders to serve on the Nurture Team and Rev. Stephanie Dion to serve on the Shepherding Team. Elder Jim Deavor reminded all present that the COR needs nominations to all teams, committees and commissions of the presbytery.

The Commission on Ministry, in addition to asking Colin Kerr (right) to share his faith journey, also introduced Elder Robert Norris (left) who has been commissioned as a Commissioned Lay Pastor (also know as a Commission Ruling Elder) to serve Sea Island Presbyterian Church.

The Shepherding Team presented four resolutions for vote, all of which were approved without dissent:
1. The “Third Amendment to the Agreement of Purchase and Sale” plus the “Assignment of the Agreement of Purchase and Sale,” were approved as one resolution necessary to move forward with the sale of the presbytery office building on Highway 61 in preparation of moving the office to the Park Circle property.
2. The resolution to approve the request of the Cane Bay NCD Advisory Team to enter into a lease for a space to be used for program, worship and office space, was approved.
3. The resolution to allow Rev. Mike Fitze to negotiate an agreement with the St. Barnabas Lutheran Church for the Parkside NCD to use the building and facilities of that church for office, worship and program activities, was approved.
4. The resolution that Dorchester Presbyterian Church be authorized to apply for and enter into a construction loan in the amount of $500,000 secured by a mortgage on church property–spoken to by Rev. Jeff Kackley of Dorchester PC–also was approved.

All other agencies of the Presbytery reported by written reports in the Commissioner’s Handbook. After reports of the standing committees on Attendance and on Resolution of Thanks were approved, the meeting closed with prayer and with a benediction by the newly ordained Rev. Kerr. Then an excellent lunch was served by First Presbyterian Church of Moncks Corner.

The next presbytery meeting is scheduled for Saturday Sept. 21 at Zion Olivet Presbyterian Church in North Charleston. Commissioners are reminded and requested please to obtain, to either print or download and to read the Handbook prior to the meeting. Anyone, not just commissioners, may obtain the handbook and visitors to presbytery meeting always are welcome.

Submitted by Catherine Byrd, Stated Clerk

For more information read the HANDBOOK and SUPPLEMENT.

Please enjoy the Spring 2019 Presbytery Joys Video HERE.  Thank you to all the churches who submitted photos!