2025 Legislative Issues Forum
Save the Date!
2025 Legislative Issues Forum
Hosted by Presbyterians for a Better Georgia
November 21, 2024
7:00-8:10 p.m. via Zoom
Come learn about the issues our legislature will consider in 2025 and how best to advocate for healthcare and housing for all Georgians!
Speakers to include: Rep. Michelle Au (D Johns Creek, physician on Public Health Committee)
Roland Behm, Esq. advocate and co-founder of the Georgia Mental Health Policy Priorities coalition.
75th Anniversary of Trinity Presbyterian Church Atlanta
75th Anniversary of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Atlanta
Next month will mark the 75th anniversary of Trinity church and we have much for which to be grateful! We hope you will join us on November 17 as we worship through music, and plan to stay after our 11:00 worship service as we celebrate Norman Mackenzie’s 40 years of service here.
The following Sunday, on November 24, we will gather for a morning of thanksgiving for Trinity's history and sharing joy for God's future. At 10:00, we will enjoy a 75th anniversary video, and our 11:00 worship will echo the service of dedication of Trinity's sanctuary when it was newly constructed. After worship, we will gather as a church family for a catered luncheon in Williams Hall. Please RSVP and join us to celebrate!
Kimberly Wagner to preach on ‘Day 1’
Kimberly Wagner to preach on ‘Day 1’
Assistant professor of preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary
The Rev. Dr. Kimberly Wagner, assistant professor of preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary, is the featured preacher Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 on “Day 1,” with host Katie Givens Kime, the nationally broadcast ecumenical radio program also accessible online at Day1.org and by podcast. Hear the program in Atlanta on WSB 95.5 and 750 AM Sundays at 7:05 a.m. "Day1" has been on WSB for 79 years.
“Advent Alertness,” the sermon for Dec. 1 explores Luke: 25-36. She says, “Advent is a time of waiting. But, as our text makes clear, it is not a time for passive waiting. It is a time of active waiting. We are to live preparing, anticipating, expecting that Jesus may show up at any moment.”
She draws the Dec. 6 sermon “Showing Up” from Luke 3:1-6. “I don’t know about you, but the minute we begin the litany, all those names at the start of today’s text in Luke, I catch my mind wandering,” she says. “The author of the Gospel takes the time to give us these names because they are actually important . . . . You see, Luke wants to make clear early on that this story he is about to unwind about Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of the Most High God, is not some abstract fairy tale or some timeless myth. Luke makes clear that God is not working in abstract other-worldly time, but in the context of human, historical time—in the middle of real life.”
A graduate of Miami University (OH), Wagner earned her M.Div. from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University and her Ph.D. from the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University. She is ordained in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). She served on the pastoral staff at Green Acres Presbyterian Church, a PCUSA congregation in Virginia. She is passionate about supporting students’ formation and helping clergy and communities navigate the realities of an ever-changing world and church. Her current writing and work focus on preaching and ministry in the midst and wake of trauma, particularly thinking about collective trauma, the role of the preacher, and the resources of our Scriptures and faith to respond to these moments. Wagner’s book, Fractured Ground: Preaching in the Wake of Mass Trauma(Westminster John Knox Press, 2023), offers guidance for preaching in the aftermath of communal trauma, including mass violence, natural disasters, and public health crises.
The programs include interviews with Wagner conducted by Kime, who is also executive producer.
“Day 1” has been broadcast every week for 79 years, formerly as “The Protestant Hour.” Featuring outstanding preachers from the mainline denominations, “Day 1” is currently distributed to radio stations across America and overseas, and the “Day1 Weekly Program” is on all podcast apps. The program is produced by the Alliance for Christian Media, based in Atlanta, Ga. "Day 1"® is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by the Alliance for Christian Media, Inc. For more information, check the program’s website, http://day1.org
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Retiree Christmas Luncheon
Retiree Christmas Luncheon
Monday, December 2, 2024 at 12 PM
All retired Pastors, Christian Educators, and Validated Ministers will receive an invitation with more details and registration within the first week in November.
Location:
Presbyterian Village
2000 E West Connector
Austell, GA 30106
When you arrive at Presbyterian Village, follow signs saying “Event” to the location of the lunch.
Transportation:
Bus transportation will be provided by Presbyterian Village from Trinity PC in Atlanta.
If you prefer to ride the bus from Trinity PC Atlanta, please designate when you register.
“Presbyterian Village” Bus
Trinity Presbyterian Church
3003 Howell Mill Road
Atlanta, Ga
Meet the parking lot in front of the sanctuary
Leave the Trinity parking lot at 11 am
Return from Presbyterian Village leaving around 1:45 pm
Registration Deadline: November 22
Giving Tuesday - NCDC Emergency Fund
#GIVINGTUESDAY IS DECEMBER 3, 2024
NCDC IS FUNDRAISING NOVEMBER 1 - DECEMBER 3
FOR THE NCDC EMERGENCY FUND
GOAL: $10,000
At the New Church Development Commission, we walk alongside an average of 50-60 individuals each year as they discern and/or navigate what it means to start and build a new worshiping community. Most of these leaders are multivocational, meaning they have multiple jobs as their worshiping community is newly forming, low income, and/or otherwise unable to financially support leadership.
At times, leaders experience hardship and need assistance. This year alone, we have had fire destroy a leader’s home, Hurricane damage prove too costly to bear, medical challenges financially devastate , children of leaders need unaffordable basics, cars that are essential to ministry break down, etc. Financial challenges for volunteer and/or underpaid church leaders are legion.
During the month leading up to Giving Tuesday, NCDC is raising funds for NCDC’s Emergency Fund, which assists in times of need. In this Thanksgiving season, we give thanks for all that our new worshiping community leaders contribute to the life of this Presbytery and to so many people. In this Thanksgiving season, we also thank you for being there in times of need. Your support is nothing less than breathtaking and literally life-giving.
Boundaries Training
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
POAMN - Supporting Older Adults in the “Third Thirty”
Supporting Older Adults in the “Third Thirty”
Presbyterian Older Adult Ministries Network
December 3, 2 PM (ET)
Learn about the challenges of aging, how older adults can best navigate them, and how the church can provide support. Chris Pomfret, a 10-year member of POAMN and its current treasurer, will lead the webinar.
Chris observed how his parents and many others were unprepared for events that come their way in their later lives. These include decisions about where to live as they age, the importance of downsizing, and having conversations with children or loved ones about our end-of-life wishes. He wanted to help people in this “Third Thirty” period age smartly, wisely, gracefully, sensibly, and spiritually.
During the webinar, Chris will introduce an ecumenical curriculum for church organizations and/or older adult leaders to use or adapt with their congregations.
The webinar is free; registration is required.
Register: https://poamn.org/third-thirty-webinar-2024/
Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/449824228138878/
1st Wednesday SACK Lunch
1st Wednesday SACK Lunch
South Atlantic Community Knowledge
A monthly Zoom for sharing across the synod!
Join, learn and share: experience, resources, and best practices on a new topic each month.
First Wednesday SACK Lunch
12/4/24 Racial Justice/Social
Information: https://www.synodofsouthatlantic.org/
Registration: https://form.jotform.com/240293832066052
Kimberly Wagner to preach on ‘Day 1’
Kimberly Wagner to preach on ‘Day 1’
Assistant professor of preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary
The Rev. Dr. Kimberly Wagner, assistant professor of preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary, is the featured preacher Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 on “Day 1,” with host Katie Givens Kime, the nationally broadcast ecumenical radio program also accessible online at Day1.org and by podcast. Hear the program in Atlanta on WSB 95.5 and 750 AM Sundays at 7:05 a.m. "Day1" has been on WSB for 79 years.
“Advent Alertness,” the sermon for Dec. 1 explores Luke: 25-36. She says, “Advent is a time of waiting. But, as our text makes clear, it is not a time for passive waiting. It is a time of active waiting. We are to live preparing, anticipating, expecting that Jesus may show up at any moment.”
She draws the Dec. 6 sermon “Showing Up” from Luke 3:1-6. “I don’t know about you, but the minute we begin the litany, all those names at the start of today’s text in Luke, I catch my mind wandering,” she says. “The author of the Gospel takes the time to give us these names because they are actually important . . . . You see, Luke wants to make clear early on that this story he is about to unwind about Jesus of Nazareth, the Son of the Most High God, is not some abstract fairy tale or some timeless myth. Luke makes clear that God is not working in abstract other-worldly time, but in the context of human, historical time—in the middle of real life.”
A graduate of Miami University (OH), Wagner earned her M.Div. from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University and her Ph.D. from the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University. She is ordained in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). She served on the pastoral staff at Green Acres Presbyterian Church, a PCUSA congregation in Virginia. She is passionate about supporting students’ formation and helping clergy and communities navigate the realities of an ever-changing world and church. Her current writing and work focus on preaching and ministry in the midst and wake of trauma, particularly thinking about collective trauma, the role of the preacher, and the resources of our Scriptures and faith to respond to these moments. Wagner’s book, Fractured Ground: Preaching in the Wake of Mass Trauma(Westminster John Knox Press, 2023), offers guidance for preaching in the aftermath of communal trauma, including mass violence, natural disasters, and public health crises.
The programs include interviews with Wagner conducted by Kime, who is also executive producer.
“Day 1” has been broadcast every week for 79 years, formerly as “The Protestant Hour.” Featuring outstanding preachers from the mainline denominations, “Day 1” is currently distributed to radio stations across America and overseas, and the “Day1 Weekly Program” is on all podcast apps. The program is produced by the Alliance for Christian Media, based in Atlanta, Ga. "Day 1"® is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by the Alliance for Christian Media, Inc. For more information, check the program’s website, http://day1.org
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Ordination of Courtney Anne Henry
Ordination of Courtney Anne Henry at Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church
Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 3:00 PM
Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church
Join us as we celebrate the Ordination of Courtney Anne Henry at Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church. The service will take place at Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church on Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 3:00 PM (ET).
An offering is to be received to benefit the Committee on Preparation for Ministry Scholarship Fund.
Christmas Joy Offering
Christmas Joy
December 1 - December 24, 2024
The Christmas Joy Offering has been a cherished Presbyterian tradition since the 1930s. The Offering distributes gifts equally to the Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions and to Presbyterian-related schools and colleges equipping communities of color. The Assistance Program provides critical financial support to church workers and their families. Presbyterian-related schools and colleges provide education and leadership development while nurturing racial and ethnic heritage. This has been a Presbyterian commitment for nearly 140 years.
Information/Resources: https://specialofferings.pcusa.org/offering/christmas-joy/
Conversations with the Clerk
Conversations with the Clerk
Join Stated Clerk Andy James for a series of gatherings to follow up on the actions of the General Assembly and discuss other polity and procedure matters of the Presbytery!
Upcoming Conversations:
Monday, January 6, 2025, 7:00 P.M.: Proposed Amendments to the Book of Order
Click the link below to register for one or more upcoming conversations.
Previous Conversations with the Clerk can be viewed on YouTube > Playlist: Conversations with the Clerk.
Boundaries Training
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
Savannah Presbytery - Faith Enrichment Conference
Faith Enrichment Conference
Presented by the 2025 Faith Enrichment Committee of the Savannah Presbytery
Theme: Thrive
Revitalize • Energize • Spiritualize
February 21-22, 2025
Epworth by the Sea
Registration opens in October 2024
GIPL - 2025 Green Team Summit
Georgia Interfaith Power & Light (GIPL) cordially invites you to join us for our annual Green Team Summit on Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 2-8 p.m. at Northside United Methodist Church in Atlanta.
Green Team Summits are opportunities for Green Teams, faith leaders, and environmental activists from across Georgia to gather for a time of fellowship and shared learning. This year's theme is “Seeding Life.” This summit aims to cultivate a shared vision for a flourishing world rooted in hope and joy. Participants will learn more about GIPL’s new ReWilding program for sustainable land use, as well as other practical climate solutions, and policy initiatives that will seed new life in their congregations and communities.
This year's keynote speaker (to be announced soon) will inspire faith communities to live out a faith that is grounded in active hope, embraces resilient change, and sows the seeds for a healthier, more vibrant world. The summit will also offer a series of workshops that will help equip congregations to build Green Teams, combat climate change through practical climate solutions, and engage in climate advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels.
Registration opens in November.
Boundaries Training
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
Clerk of Session Training
Clerk of Session Training
Clerks of session are invited to attend a training session on Thursday, March 13 at 7:00 PM. Clerks of session are key players in gathering, recording, and communicating the work of the church. Join us for training for new and experienced clerks alike as we review the responsibilities of clerks, discuss the different approaches to this important work, and explore ways to streamline and simplify this work. This session will be conducted via Zoom and recorded for later review. Please register at the link below by Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Boundaries Training
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
Presbyterian Youth Triennium
Presbyterian Youth Triennium
July 28-31, 2025
Louisville, Kentucky
Theme: As if We Were Dreaming (Psalm 126)
The Office of Presbyterian Youth and Triennium is thrilled to announce that the theme for the 2025 Triennium will be “As If We Were Dreaming…” (Psalm 126). Next summer, from July 28 to 31, thousands of Presbyterian young people will gather in Louisville, Kentucky, for four amazing days filled with worship, recreation, group study, and fellowship. Participants will be reminded that they are born to dream, share in collective dreaming, learn how to confront their nightmares, and be encouraged to wake up and dream as they carry their experiences home.
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta is eager to bring a group, and we are currently finalizing the cost, which we hope will range between $500 and $600 per person. We are trying to get a rough estimate of how many youth and adults from our churches will attend. If your church is interested in participating in Triennium, please fill out the form below.
Google Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdSHqD911FaeYnC4G0PJtAsMGHCa_sX5Fx6EFTYoDi6fI1IQA/viewform
PCUSA Ministry Engagement and Support
What: PCUSA Ministry Update: Stay in the Loop!
Where: Columbia Seminary, Ellis Room (adjacent to the Cafeteria)
When: Nov. 20, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Join us on November 20, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a conversation about important changes happening in the PCUSA. Connect with denominational staff, mid-council leaders, and local pastors to discuss key actions from the 226th General Assembly, updates to Churchwide Special Offerings, the evolving work of the new Interim Unified Agency, and much more! This is a great opportunity to stay informed, ask questions, and share your thoughts—don’t miss it!
Conversations with the Clerk
Conversations with the Clerk
Join Stated Clerk Andy James for a series of gatherings to follow up on the actions of the General Assembly and discuss other polity and procedure matters of the Presbytery!
Upcoming Conversations:
Tuesday, November 19, 7:00 P.M.: Statistics Planning for 2025
Monday, January 6, 2025, 7:00 P.M.: Proposed Amendments to the Book of Order
Click the link below to register for one or more upcoming conversations.
Previous Conversations with the Clerk can be viewed on YouTube > Playlist: Conversations with the Clerk.
Installation of Joseph Jumper
Installation of Joseph Jumper as Associate Pastor at Shallowford Presbyterian Church
Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 6:00 PM
Shallowford Presbyterian Church
Join us as we celebrate the Installation of Joseph Jumper as Associate Pastor at Shallowford Presbyterian Church. The service will take place at Shallowford Presbyterian Church on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 6:00 PM (ET).
An offering is to be received to benefit the Emergency Fund for Pastors.
Fall Music Sunday
Fall Music Sunday
Trinity Presbyterian Church in Atlanta
Celebrating Norman Mackenzie’s 40 Years of Service
Next month will mark the 75th anniversary of Trinity church and we have much for which to be grateful! We hope you will join us on November 17 as we worship through music, and plan to stay after our 11:00 worship service as we celebrate Norman Mackenzie’s 40 years of service here.
The following Sunday, on November 24, we will gather for a morning of thanksgiving for Trinity's history and sharing joy for God's future. At 10:00, we will enjoy a 75th anniversary video, and our 11:00 worship will echo the service of dedication of Trinity's sanctuary when it was newly constructed. After worship, we will gather as a church family for a catered luncheon in Williams Hall. Please RSVP and join us to celebrate!
Peachtree Presbyterian Church's Sanctuary Grand Opening
Join Peachtree Presbyterian Church as they welcome you into their newly renovated Sanctuary! Please consider attending either the 8:30am or 11:15am service as they are expecting large crowds on Sunday, November 17th.
AMIS Thanksgiving Fest
Enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal with AMIS! A vegetarian meal can be requested. Please pre-purchase a ticket for this catered meal. Student meals will be $6, and Volunteer meals $16. We don't want cost to keep you from coming, so there is a "Pay What You Can" ticket option. Seating will be prearranged so everyone will meet new friends from other countries and schools.
Make your payment by purchasing a meal here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a QR code and further information about this event.
Volunteers will be invited to serve as conversation table hosts.
Family, friends, and international and American students are welcome, too!
The Rest Retreat
The Rest Retreat
Dates: November 14-17, 2024
Hotel: Elohee
Location: Bald Mountain, Sautee Nacoochee, GA
Information/Registration: https://www.thefaithstudio.org/the-rest-retreat
Installation of Landon Dillard
Installation of Landon Dillard as Associate Pastor for Faith Formation at Shallowford Presbyterian Church
Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. (ET)
Shallowford Presbyterian Church
Join us as we celebrate the Installation of Landon Dillard as Associate Pastor for Faith Formation at Shallowford Presbyterian Church. The service will take place at Shallowford Presbyterian Church on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. (ET).
An offering is to be received to benefit the Emergency Fund for Pastors.
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben to preach on ‘Day 1’
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben to preach on ‘Day 1’
Chaplain, U.S. House of Representatives
The Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives, is the featured preacher November 10, 2024, the day before Veterans Day, on “Day 1” with host Katie Givens Kime, the nationally broadcast ecumenical radio program also accessible online at Day1.org and by podcast. Kibben made history as the first woman to serve as the Chief of Chaplains of the U.S. Navy and the Chaplain of the U.S. Marine Corps. On January 3, 2021, Chaplain Kibben was elected by the House and sworn in by Speaker Nancy Pelosi as the 61st Chaplain of the United States House of Representatives.
“Give and Take” is based on 1 Kings 17:8-16, the story of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath. The Lord has sent Elijah to the widow to be fed. It is a time of famine in the land and she only has a few drops of oil and a handful of flour. She is able to fed Elijah and her family and her provisions are miraculously replenished. “It feels like there ought to be some sort of mic drop here. The testimony of the widows’ faith is strong enough – significant enough – to offer a convincing testimony of blind faith, to teach us about hospitality, trust, and obedience, to reassure us of God’s … promise,” she says. “Well yes, and countless sermons have done just that. But to read this story in context is to discover a profound illustration of what it is God desires to give – not just to the widow, but all who believe in him.”
The program includes interviews with Kibben conducted by Kime, who is also executive producer. Kibben shares her experience providing spiritual care as chaplain sheltering with the U.S. House of Representatives on January 6.
In her final active-duty assignment in the Navy, Chaplain Margaret Grun Kibben served as the director of religious ministry for the Department of the Navy, advising the Secretary of the Navy, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard on all matters pertaining to religion in their respective services. Prior to this assignment, Chaplain Kibben served as the 18th Chaplain of the Marine Corps and Deputy Chief of Chaplains.
A native of Warrington, Pennsylvania, Chaplain Kibben entered active duty in 1986 through the Navy’s Theological Student Program. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Goucher College, M. Div. and D.Min. degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Master’s degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College. Kibben served as a senior fellow, United States Institute of Peace, Washington, D.C. Chaplain serves on the Princeton Theological Seminary Board of Trustees and the Inamori International Center for Ethics and Excellence Board, and the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation.
“Day 1” has been broadcast every week for 79 years, formerly as “The Protestant Hour.” Featuring outstanding preachers from the mainline denominations, “Day 1” is currently distributed radio stations across America and overseas, and the “Day1 Weekly Program” is on all podcast apps. The program is produced by the Alliance for Christian Media, based in Atlanta, Ga. "Day 1"® is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by the Alliance for Christian Media, Inc. For more information, check the program’s website, http://day1.org.
In Atlanta Day1 is heard on WSB 95.5 and 750 AM on Sunday at 7:05 a.m.
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Stated Meeting of the Presbytery - Mt. Vernon
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta holds quarterly Stated Meetings to conduct business and join in worship together.
For more information about Stated Meetings (including links to registration, submit absence requests, download the current Commissioner Handbook, etc.), click the button below.
Some items, such as the Commissioner Handbook, registration link, etc., will be made available a couple of weeks prior to each event.
1st Wednesday SACK Lunch
1st Wednesday SACK Lunch
South Atlantic Community Knowledge
A monthly Zoom for sharing across the synod!
Join, learn and share: experience, resources, and best practices on a new topic each month.
First Wednesday SACK Lunch
11/6/24 Mental Health Ministries
12/4/24 Racial Justice/Social
Information: https://www.synodofsouthatlantic.org/
Registration: https://form.jotform.com/240293832066052
Druid Hills Election Day Event
Vote, Pray, Sing Event Tuesday, November 5
On a day of high hopes and high anxieties, our sanctuary will be open to the community 11:00am - 7:00pm as a space for contemplation, prayer, enjoyment, and rest.
We will have prayer stations and a mix of music throughout the day, plus short prayer services at 12:00 and at 6:00pm.
All are welcome to drop in to find peace and renewal in this sacred space. See Pastor Betsy to sign up for a one hour or longer slot to be part of hosting this event for our community.
75th Anniversary of Oglethorpe PC
Oglethorpe's 75th Anniversary
November 3rd
Oglethorpe Presbyterian Church
3016 Lanier Dr. NE
Brookhaven, GA 30319
Global Village Project Welcome Walk 2024
Join us in celebrating 16 years of impact on refugee girls' education! On Saturday, November 2, Global Village Project will host its annual Welcome Walk. The Walk represents our commitment to making Atlanta a refuge for refugees to live, learn, and thrive.
Over 300 people will gather to walk 4 miles from Clarkston to Decatur. Not ready to walk 4 miles? No worries! Our buses are available throughout the day to pick you up anywhere along the route and take you to the finish line celebration. Join students, parents, teachers, volunteers, and friends of GVP's mission as we seek to strengthen connections between communities.
Walking or donating to this event is not just about covering the miles; it's about making a tangible difference in the lives of our students.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, November 2nd, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m - 1:30 p.m
Registration: 9:00 a.m
Program Begins: 9:45 a.m
Walkers Depart: 10 a.m
Celebration Finish Line: 11:30 a.m- 1:30 p.m
Start Line: Clarkston Market (980 Rowland Street, Clarkston)
Finish Line: Global Village Project/ Decatur Presbyterian Church (205 Sycamore Street, Decatur)
Who can Walk? Everyone! This is a family-friendly event for all ages! Children under 6 are free. (Remember, we have a bus if you only want to walk a portion of the route!)
Learn More, Donate, Register: https://p2p.onecause.com/gvpwalk
New Elder Training
New Elder Training, Part 1
Saturday, November 2, 2024 - 8:30 am – 12:30 pm
Atlanta Good Church, 3330 Chestnut Dr, Doraville, GA 30340
If being an elder is new to you, we want you to come to this event!
Designed to onramp those who are new to being an elder and/or new to the PCUSA, this in person training will be held at Atlanta Good Church in Duluth, will offer language interpretation services, and is open to all leaders of our Presbytery. Taught by Pastors Sun Ki Jeong, Lindsay Armstrong, and Andy James, this training offers a rich blend of large and small group learning, reflection, and fellowship. It is specifically designed for church leaders who are new to being on leadership of a Presbyterian Church or who are going to be on the inaugural Session of a newly chartered church.
RSVP by October 28, 2024 - Reservations required.
Middle School Retreat
Middle School Retreat
Calvin Center
November 1-3, 2024
Attention all youth groups! You're invited to join us for an incredible weekend retreat at the Calvin Center. Our theme this year is "Fanning the Flame," and we are excited to have Aisha Brooks-Johnson as our Worship Leader and Anthony Mobley leading us in Music.
We've got an amazing weekend lined up with morning and afternoon workshops, canoeing, hiking, and all the fun activities that Calvin Center has to offer!
Link to Sign Up: forms.gle/6Rpqz5JuRnvBUGz66
Sign-Up Deadline: Sunday, October 13, 2024
Questions? Contact Destiny Williams (Destiny@mcdonoughpresbyterian.com) or Tully Fletcher (tfletcher@dpchurch.org).
Installation of Emily Beaver
Installation of Rev. Emily Beaver as associate pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta
Sunday, October 27 at 11:00 am
Trinity Presbyterian Church
3003 Howell Mill Rd NW
Atlanta GA 30327
Join us as we celebrate the Installation of Rev. Emily Beaver as associate pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta. The service is scheduled for Sunday, October 27 at 11:00 am (ET) at Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta.
An offering is to be received to benefit the Emergency Fund for Pastors.
Decatur Presbyterian Church Bicentennial Year Kick Off
Decatur Presbyterian Church Bicentennial Year Kick Off
Kirkin’ of the Tartans
Decatur Presbyterian Church
October 27, 2024
10:30am
Followed by Lunch in the Parlor
Featuring our Annual Scone Bake Off!
The Rev. Dr. Baron Mullis to preach on ‘Day 1’
The Rev. Dr. Baron Mullis to preach on ‘Day 1’
Pastor of The First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia
The Rev. Dr. Baron Mullis, pastor of The First Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, is the featured preacher Oct. 27, 2024, on “Day 1” with host Katie Givens Kime, the nationally broadcast ecumenical radio program also accessible online at Day1.org and by podcast.
His sermon “Let Me See Again” is based on Mark 10:46-52, the account of Jesus restoring the sight of Bartimaeus. Mullis explores the idea that this miracle story can lead us to understand we have blind spots that keep us from seeing the miracles that are right before our eyes --- love, generosity, forgiveness. The disciples, he says, “were wandering along with some vague notion that there’s something important in the way-off, distant horizon called the kingdom, and they’re missing what’s right in front of them. I know that’s true of me at least part of the time… we go right on living in our blind spots.
A native of Charlotte, N.C., Mullis completed his seminary training at Princeton Theological Seminary and later returned to Princeton to earn a doctoral degree with a focus on understanding the psychology and theology of giving. After completing a post-graduate fellowship in Indianapolis, he pastored churches in Charlotte and Atlanta. He has previously served as a trustee for Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary and on the board of directors of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians. In his ministry, he has focused on creating intentionally inclusive congregations where unconditional welcome is recognized as a fundamental facet of the kingdom of God. His work has included breaking down barriers to LGBTQ equality, addressing hunger and food insecurity at the neighborhood level, and increasing awareness of the need for economic inclusivity in the local congregation.
The program includes interviews with Mullis conducted by Kime, who is also executive producer.
“Day 1” has been broadcast every week for 79 years, formerly as “The Protestant Hour.” Featuring outstanding preachers from the mainline denominations, “Day 1” is currently distributed radio stations across America and overseas, and the “Day1 Weekly Program” is on all podcast apps. The program is produced by the Alliance for Christian Media, based in Atlanta, Ga. "Day 1"® is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by the Alliance for Christian Media, Inc. For more information, check the program’s website, http://day1.org.
In Atlanta, Day1 is heard on WSB 95.5 and 750 AM on Sunday at 7:05 a.m.
Also available on YouTube.
· A direct link to this Episode on the Day1 Website: https://day1.org/weekly-broadcast/670d4db66615fb04b000000d/let-me-see-again-baron-mullis-mark-10-46-52-october-27-2024
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50th Anniversary of Crossroads Presbyterian Church
50th Anniversary of Crossroads Presbyterian Church
We are excited to announce that October 2024 our beloved Presbyterian church is turning 50! This milestone marks a half-century of worship, community, and service to our Lord and our neighbors. We give Him all the glory for sustaining us these past 50 years.
To commemorate this special occasion, we invite you to join us for an evening of celebrating and glorifying the Lord for His 50 years of favor to Crossroads. The event is taking place on:
Date: 10/26/2024
Time: 4pm-7:30pm
Location: Fairfield Family Center
6133 Redan Road
Lithonia, GA 30058
The event will feature:
Special guest speakers
Music and worship
Stories from our history
Dinner and fellowship
We ask that you save the date and join us as we reflect on our past, celebrate our present, and look forward to our future together. Please RSVP to this email to let us know you're coming! We look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with you.
Worship Celebration: Sunday, October 27, 2024, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Our Theme: Crossroads Celebrating 50 years of God’s Favor
Tagline: To God Be the Glory
Our Scripture Verse: “Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”
Boundaries Training - in person at Roswell PC
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
Conversations with the Clerk
Conversations with the Clerk
Join Stated Clerk Andy James for a series of gatherings to follow up on the actions of the General Assembly and discuss other polity and procedure matters of the Presbytery!
Upcoming Conversations:
Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 P.M.: Other General Assembly Actions
Tuesday, November 19, 7:00 P.M.: Statistics Planning for 2025
Monday, January 6, 2025, 7:00 P.M.: Proposed Amendments to the Book of Order
Click the link below to register for one or more upcoming conversations.
Previous Conversations with the Clerk can be viewed on YouTube > Playlist: Conversations with the Clerk.
Memorial Services for Rev. Dr. Richard A. Farmer
Memorial Services for Rev. Dr. Richard A. Farmer
Saturday, October 5th
11:00 a.m.{CDT}
Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
1660 W Camp Wisdom Rd
Dallas, TX 75232
12:00 p.m.
Crossroads Presbyterian Church
Sanctuary
Viewing Live Stream Service
Saturday, October 19th
2:00 p.m.
Fairfield Baptist Church
6133 Redan Rd
Lithonia, GA 30058
Boundaries Training
The Presbytery of Greater Atlanta requires all ministers of the Word and Sacrament and commissioned ruling elders, including members at large, ministers serving in a validated ministry, and retired ministers serving a church in any Presbytery-approved relationship, to take the Presbytery’s Boundaries Training once every three years.
For more information about Boundaries Training and/or to register, click the button below.
Installation of Betsy Turner
Installation of Betsy Turner as Designated Pastor for Druid Hills Presbyterian Church
Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 2:00 PM (ET)
Druid Hills Presbyterian Church
Join us as we celebrate the Installation of Betsy Turner as Designated Pastor for Druid Hills Presbyterian Church. The service will take place at Druid Hills Presbyterian Church on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 2:00 PM (ET).
An offering is to be received to benefit the Emergency Fund for Pastors.
Synod of South Atlantic Prayer Service
Friends,
Hurricane Helene has had a tremendous impact on people throughout this synod. Ten of our sixteen presbyteries have sustained damage to some degree. Assessment of the impact is still ongoing and of course, we are aware of the impact this has had on our siblings in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The synod’s Executive Administrative Commission has made the decision to postpone the Stated Meeting and instead offer October 12th at 1 pm (Eastern Time) via zoom as a dedicated online worship & prayer service. It will be a time for storytelling and prayer for those who have been lost, those suffering, and those responding.
Registration is necessary and this gathering is open to anyone throughout the denomination to attend. Please share this information and registration link with anyone interested.
Representatives from Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Florida Disaster Assistance Network, and South Carolina Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team will join us with an update.
We come together embodying the grace and love of Jesus Christ, caring for our communities, and God’s people.
In Christ,
Valerie Young
Synod Executive & Stated Clerk
postponed - UKirk Atlanta Prom Fundraiser
POSTPONED until March 21st
UKirk Atlanta’s Prom Fundraiser 2024
Back to the 80s & 90s!
Class is in session, and UKirk Atlanta is welcoming students back to the Emory and Agnes Scott campuses! Between dorm life and schoolwork, there’s a lot we do to care for these young adults. In that effort, UKirk Atlanta is hosting a party and fundraiser to help continue our ministry, and you’re invited to join the celebration!
On October 11, we’re hosting a 80’s and 90’s “Senior Prom!” Get out your Day-Glo t-shirts, neon colors, gold bangles, over-sized jeans, and anything plaid! We’re going raise the roof like it’s 1994 (or 1984 — or like it’s a General Assembly dance break)!
We will give out awards for best 80s and 90s attire!
When: Friday, October 11 at 7 pm
Where: McDonough Presbyterian Church, 427 McGarity Road, McDonough, GA 30252
Ticket Pricing:
Early Bird- $30.00/person or $300/table near the band
After September 15- $45.00/person or $350/table near the dance floor
Day of Oct 11: $55.00/person
You can buy your tickets using the Google Form here: https://forms.gle/8WKRWpBjxyxrQJ3v6
Questions or want to volunteer? Contact:
Drew Wilmesherr; drew@ukirkatlanta.com
or
Destiny Williams; destiny@mcdonoughpresbtyerian.com
Webinar: Older Adult Ministries
Webinar on new older adult ministry resource
October 10, 2 p.m. ET
Learn about POAMN’s new online resource for older adult ministry leaders launched earlier this year. “Expressions of Older Adult Ministry” covers guiding principles for serving with older adults, a reformed theology framework, and a multitude of practical ideas you can implement in your context. Take a glimpse at the instructional videos, interviews with ministry leaders, and written materials available now. Explore the resources, meet others who are in ministry with older adults, and ask questions. Miatta Wilson from the PCUSA Office of Christian Formation, POAMN's partner in creating the resource, will lead this conversation.
Register at https://poamn.org/expressions-webinar/
18th Annual Caring Hands Classic Golf Tournament
Presbyterian Homes of Georgia’s
18th Annual Caring Hands Classic Golf Tournament
October 7, 2024 - 9:30 AM tee time
Atlanta Athletic Club
Presbyterian Homes of Georgia is a Christian ministry providing exceptional services to enhance the quality of life for senior adults. The heart of this ministry is the Caring Hands Fund, which subsidizes the cost for their most financially vulnerable residents. The Caring Hands Classic is Presbyterian Homes’s annual fundraising event to support the Caring Hands Fund.
To sponsor, please contact Jerry Dean Weber - jdweber@phgainc.org - (404) 831-0886
Information: https://www.phgainc.org/chclassic/
Peace & Global Witness Offering
Peace & Global Witness
September 1 - October 6, 2024
A gift to the Peace & Global Witness Offering enables the church to promote the Peace of Christ by addressing systems of conflict and injustice across the world. Individual congregations are encouraged to utilize up to 25% of this Offering for peacemaking efforts that align with their passion. Mid-councils retain an additional 25% for ministries of peace and reconciliation. The remaining 50% is used by the Presbyterian Mission Agency to advocate for peace and justice in cultures of violence, including our own, through collaborative projects of education and Christian witness.
Information/Resources: https://specialofferings.pcusa.org/offering/peace-global-witness/