July 7, 2016
July 7, 2016
Clean up continues following West Virginia flooding
Controlled chaos. That’s how Joan Stewart, executive director of the West Virginia Ministry of Advocacy and Workcamps—the long-term recovery response arm of the Presbytery of West Virginia—describes flood-damaged communities nearly two weeks after record flooding. The water has receded, but the clean up is just ramping up. Read more »
July 7, 2016
Prague ceremony marks the close of Jan Hus anniversary year
Czech Television (CT2) devoted 90 minutes of programming yesterday afternoon to a liturgical commemoration of national and religious leaders, chief among them the reformers Jan Hus and Jerome of Prague who were executed in 1415 as heretics and are celebrated today as martyrs and champions of faith, intellect and liberty. Read more »
July 6, 2016
School for students with disabilities challenges social stigma in Beirut
Despite its history of civil war and its current challenges with poverty and the refugee crisis, the city of Beirut remains fertile ground for those seeking wealth, status and power. For Muslims and Christians, the cultural ethos of pride/shame places a high value on education, success and providing for one’s family. Read more »
July 6, 2016
Tampa Bay Presbytery connects new worshiping communities and church revitalization
Patrice Hatley wears her title well. As coach and coordinator for the Presbytery of Tampa Bay, Hatley’s calling—and among her considerable gifts—is identifying, strengthening, and coaching leaders to serve and to grow Christ’s church. Read more »
July 5, 2016
Nashville Young Adult Volunteer site celebrates 15 years of ministry
Dozens of church members, presbytery representatives, partner agencies, current Young Adult Volunteers (YAVs) and program alumni were on hand June 26 as the Nashville YAV site celebrated 15 years of service to the community. The program will end its current incarnation this year and plans to regroup before relaunching in 1-2 years. Read more »
July 5, 2016
Education requires sacrifice and a passion for learning
The pair of shiny, ankle-high boy’s boots sat in my kitchen most of that day. I’d seen Paul Sinette standing outside the gate when I left my house that morning. Paul Sinette works in my house, usually showing up about 9:30 each morning. She cooks, cleans house and generally makes my life better. Read more »
July 3, 2016
PC(USA) offers prayers for Baghdad bombing victims
The Rev. Dr. Laurie Kraus, coordinator for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, offered prayers for those killed and injured in a massive car bombing that rocked the busy Karada market in central Baghdad yesterday. The blast occurred after sundown as young people and families filled the streets, breaking their daily fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Read more »
July 1, 2016
Ghanaian Presbyterian minister is among International Peacemakers visiting this fall
The Rev. Gladys Lariba Mahama has a big job. She’s a minister with the Presbyterian Church of Ghana serving five congregations spread across the upper east region. She is also the women’s coordinator for the Northern Presbytery and a social worker. Her work keeps her busy but the impact is rewarding. Read more »
July 1, 2016
Presbyterian Hispanic Caucus members volunteer at Portland’s Union Gospel Mission
It wasn’t your typical General Assembly celebration, but it did have great impact. Members of the National Hispanic/Latino-a Presbyterian Caucus celebrated their time together at General Assembly 222 (2016) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) by participating in a June 21 service project at the Union Gospel Mission in Portland, Oregon. Read more »