Fall 2022 Stated Meeting

Stated Clerk’s ReCAP

Presbyterian connectedness was on display at the Fall meeting of the Charleston Atlantic Presbytery on December 13.  The congregation of First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head, wonderfully supported by their fantastic staff, hosted the meeting.  Highlights were the worship that including a sermon by outgoing moderator Kent Grimes who brought in inspiring message on “praying constantly” (hint, it takes practice). An offering was collected to benefit Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.  Music selections from the host church were divine.

A staggering amount of business was accomplished by members and commissioners who were attentive and engaged in the process:

• From a special consent agenda of 33 proposed amendments to the Book of Order brought form the 225 General Assembly, eight were pulled for discussion by the body. Comments pro and con were thoughtfully made, paper ballots were collected and tallied for the stated clerk to report to the Office of the General Assembly.
• The Committee on Representation proposed a full slate of members for the openings on all commissions, committees, and teams for 2023—which was approved unanimously. Elder Alan Rousseau was elected at Moderator of the Presbytery for the year of 2023.  Rev. Cibele Santos was elected Vice Moderator.  Catherine Byrd was elected Bridge Stated Clerk.
• The Shepherding Team’s creation of a Committee to nominate a Transitional General Presbyter/Pastor to Pastor/Stated Clerk was ratified. While this search continues, Rev. Rebecca Albright, who introduced herself and spoke to the meeting, will act as a bridge General Presbyter/Pastor to Pastor.
• Rev. Colin Kerr presented a request to charter on behalf of Parkside Church, reading the Organizing Covenant and displaying the signatures of over a hundred charter members. The presbytery unanimously approved the request. A Chartering Service is planned for January 29, 2023 at 4:00 at the new church.
• The Committee on Preparation for Ministry presented Inquirer Andrew Byrd to be moved to Candidate Status. He shared some of his faith journey and sense of call, was examined by the moderator and was approved by the presbytery.

• The 2023 Budget was approved. It will be attainable with the expected contributions of churches to the presbytery.
• An unanimous vote in favor of the Commission on Ministry recommendation to allow Johns Island PC to install their current Interim pastor more than satisfied the Book of Order mandate for a ¾ vote of approval for such a step. Rev. Jerri Parrish Perkins will be installed in January 2023.

The meeting closed with the installation of the new Moderator Elder Alan Rosseau, and the Vice Moderator, Rev. Cibele Santos. Read the Resolution of Thanks HERE.

Please read the HANDBOOK for more information.