First Presbyterian Church
I greatly enjoyed my experience as a commissioner at General Assembly (I know some of you have read my thoughts on my blog or the E-link). From a personal standpoint, I had a chance to visit with old friends and make new friends among the many Presbyterians who gathered there. We are not only a connec-tional church in our structure, but also in the relationships that develop over the years.
From a logistical standpoint, I found it rather amazing that 700+ commissioners and numerous other people could be fed, herded to meetings, gathered for worship with seemingly little effort or confusion.
From a church leader perspective, the Assembly dealt with some important issues. For example, the General Assembly is sending to presbyteries for their vote on three major changes: 1. The adoption of The Belhar Confession to our Book of Confessions. Belhar originally spoke out against racism in the context of S. Africa. I believe it will be a wonderful addition to our Book of
Confessions. 2. the adoption of a new Form of Government section of our Book of Order. This new section takes a much broader approach to how Presbyterians govern them-selves; allows the specifics, in many instances, to become part of each governing body‘s Manual of Operations. 3. The adoption of new language in the ordination standards that removes language specific to a candidate's sexuality and focuses on a candidate's "calling and suitability for the responsibilities of the office." This will undoubtedly be the most controversial recommendation for our presbyteries to consider. You should note that all three of these actions are recommendations to our presbyteries that will require 2/3 of the presbyteries voting in the affirmative for the changes to happen (contrary to what headlines in newspapers suggest!).
The General Assembly also empowered a commission to work with presby-teries and synods on restructuring, if the presbyteries or synods request their guidance. This may have great impact on the larger church as synods and presbyteries that are strapped financially or have a changed sense of their role can work to redefine who they are and how they work within our current structure.
Some of these recommended changes may impact the church for many years to come, but in the moment, the most powerful part of General Assembly was being in worship with thousands of other Presbyterians and being in meetings and conversations with people who were clearly seeking to be led by the Holy Spirit and witness to the resurrected Christ.
Yours in Christ,
Richard Culp
August Worship:
Sunday, August 1 - "Stepping Out" Genesis 44: 18-33 Celebration of the Lord's Supper
Sunday, August 8 - "God's Plans" Genesis 45: 1-15
Sunday, August 15 - "The Blessing" Genesis 48: 8-22 Outdoor Worship at Troy Community Park Bring a chair and table service and dish to share for lunch. Hot Dogs, buns, condiments, and beverage provided. See Special events for more information.
Sunday, August 22- "Remembering" Exodus 1: 1-14
Sunday, August 29 - "Connecting" A Celebration of how we connet with the world and with each other.