(I figure if the PCUSA's Stated Clerk can issue "Musings", then I can too!)
At today's presbytery meeting I was formally installed as Moderator (or as we say in blogland, the "MOM-derator" for 2008). The meeting was held at Korean Central Presbyterian Church, which is one of our larger congregations. It is a beautiful, modern facility and we were served the most delicious lunch by the members of the congregation.
The picture here shows the official Presbytery of New Covenant moderatorial stole, the gavel, and the cross. The cross has an interesting story: back before reunion of the PCUS and the UPCUSA, each denomination had a presbytery in the Houston area. Each presbytery's moderator wore a different cross. After reunion the crosses were fused together and the stone in the middle is a stone from Mars Hill given by a local member for the purpose. The round green stone marked "HOPE" was given to me by the outgoing moderator.
The picture here shows the official Presbytery of New Covenant moderatorial stole, the gavel, and the cross. The cross has an interesting story: back before reunion of the PCUS and the UPCUSA, each denomination had a presbytery in the Houston area. Each presbytery's moderator wore a different cross. After reunion the crosses were fused together and the stone in the middle is a stone from Mars Hill given by a local member for the purpose. The round green stone marked "HOPE" was given to me by the outgoing moderator.
Our GP gave his annual State of the Presbytery report and caused me to reflect on the many unexpected things that have come my way in the past year.
I didn't expect...
The Million Dollar Problem
The churches in the presbytery to increase their giving to presbytery in response to the Million Dollar problem
PNC to lead the denomination in new church developments (18) that we support
One of our churches to set a meeting date for a congregational vote on withdrawing from the PCUSA
One of our churches to "tithe" the proceeds of the sale of their property (to the tune of $40K) to PNC in support of presbytery
The pastor of my church always closes the service with a benediction that includes the words "expect the unexpected." I'm learning to take those words to heart.
I'm also making taking these verses from Hebrews 12:1-2 my guide for the coming year:
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.Unexpectedly and prayerfully yours,
QG
P.S. Updated score: Beatrice 3, QG 1.
May God give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
ReplyDeletePsalm 20 v4
Actually, the Presbytery of New Covenant was a "union" presbytery before the reunion of the UPUSA and the PCUS. The cross was made at the time of the establishment of that "union" presbytery. So...the Presbytery of New Covenant has been a leader before in our denomination. My prayer is that our diversity, our passion for new church development, our generosity, and the graciousness with which we intentionally deal with division will again provide leadership for the church.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! It's gonna be a good year.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations!
ReplyDeleteAnd that Beatrice - how clever is she?!? Can't wait to hear about how this continues to unfold...
I would add "powerfully" to "unexpectedly and prayerfully". Just because you're too modest to do it.
ReplyDeleteI look forward to hearing about the adventures!
And I am NOT at all surprised with Beatrice's upping the score. :)
In one of my classes this term, we have been talking about the unpredictability of God. May you be showered with blessings as you take the helm of Presbytery in the whirlwind of same.
ReplyDeleteAs for Beatrice, well, you may be Momderator, but you don't stand a chance with that puppy. Good thing she's probably cuter than all the human Presbyterians in Texas comined.
Thanks for the clarification and additional history on PNC, Just thinkin'. I appreciate it!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations, QG! Our presbytery is in good hands with you at the helm!
ReplyDeleteBlessings on you as you begin this important year QG.
ReplyDeleteBeatrice the Brilliant - she will win, of course.
Bless you for doing this, QG.
ReplyDelete