2015 Presbytery Minutes – January 20, 2015

MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
The Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of Genesee Valley was hosted by the Ogden Presbyterian Church of
Spencerport, NY on Tuesday January 20, 2015.
CONSTITUTION
The Moderator, the Rev. Brandi Wooten (Chili), called the meeting to order, a quorum being present.
She led the presbytery in prayer.
ROLL CALL
ACTIVE MINISTERS SERVING CHURCHES (P = Present; Ex = Excused; A = Absent)
Name
Alkhouri, Roula – First, Batavia
Allman, Steven – Calvary St. Andrews & Laurelton
Becker, Steven - Perinton, Fairport
Benjamin, Catherine - Lyndonville, Lyndonville
Boak, Bruce – First, Pittsford
Dailey, Alan – Interim, Brockport (UCC pastor)
DeRosia, Melissa – Gates, Rochester
DeVuyst, Larry - Webster, Webster
Duttweiler, Ron – Trinity, Nunda
Farmer, Carin – Central, Avon
Fowler, Amy Williams – Presbytery Leader
Fowler, Gene - Irondequoit , Irondequoit
Fowler, Val – First, Honeoye Falls
Fry, Laura – United Church, Covington
Fry, Mike – East Bethany, East Bethany
Gardner, Tom – First, Holley
Hartley, Susan – Union, Scottsville
Haven, Jeanine – First, Wyoming
Hershey, Kevin – Twelve Corners, Rochester
Hockey, Bill – First, North Bergen / Seekers Community
Hoener, Ed – Mendon (Interim)
Holmes, Douglas – First, Attica
Langford, Martha – Third, Rochester
Layraman, Sudalak – Ogden, Spencerport
Lee, Soonwoo – Rochester Korean United
Longabaugh, Fritz – Parkminster, Rochester
Lowmaster, Nancy – Central, Geneseo
Luddy, Tim – Brighton, Rochestser
Michelinie, Kay – Christ Clarion, Pittsford
Mitchell, Carrie – First, Pittsford
Moler, Martha – Dewey Avenue, Rochester
Morse, Alfreda – First, Medina
Mouser, Carson – Summerville
Pepper, David – First, LeRoy
Peters, Daniel – Perinton, Fairport
Pritchard, Colin – First, Victor
Pullano, Tedd – New Life, Rochester
Reiff, Marsha Rose – Dansville
Reinert, Nancy – First, Caledonia
Renfrew, James – First, Byron
Roberts, Charles – John Knox, Rochester
Sparks, Lynette - Third
Spratt, Robert – Bethany, Rochester
Styrt, Katie Jasa -- Gates
Sumption, Michelle - York
Sumption, Ron – Barre Center
Swift, Deborah – South, Rochester
Taylor, Tom – First, East Avon
Jan 20
Mar 21
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Ex
P
P
P
P
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
P
P
P
Ex
P
A
A
P
P
A
P
Ex
P
P
P
A
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Ex
P
Page 1 of 25
May 26
Sept 22
Nov 17
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
Thaine, Susan – Penfield, Penfield
Therese, Barbara – United, Warsaw
Tipton, Barbara – First, Elba
Vanderzwan, Eileen Borduin – Webster, Webster
Wilkinson, John – Third, Rochester
Wilkinson, William – Trinity Emmanuel
Wooten, Brandi Chase – First, Chili
P
TOTAL PRESENT
40
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Ex
Ex
P
P
P
P
TOTAL EXCUSED
10
TOTAL ABSENT
4
MINISTERS IN VALIDATED MINISTRIES / MINISTERS AT-LARGE
(V = Validated ~ AL = At-large)
Name
Bagnuolo, Ray (V)
Director, That All May Freely Serve
Baker,Christine (V)
Chaplain, Rochester General Hospital
Benier, Philip (AL)
Berlik, Viktoria (AL)
Falter, Jeff (AL)
Bindig, Kathryn (V)
United Church of Christ, Castile, NY
Byron, Gay (V)
Professor of New Testament
Chalmers, Andrew (AL)
Hanselman, Marie (V) John Calivn
Hwang, Ho Dong (AL)
Kenyon, Jamie (AL)
Mullin, Nadia (V)
Protestant Chaplain, Nazareth College
Mitchell, Rosemary (V)
Presbyterian Mission Agency
Nelson, Laurel (V) Lagöm Landing
Overgaard, Nancy (V)
Twin Cities Area, Minnesota
Picard, Sam (AL)
Portillo, Trina (AL)
Ricciuti, Gail (V)
Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School
Russell, Lisette (AL)
Sauve, Stephanie (V)
Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School
Schwind, Katey
St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Rochester
Stimson, Kathryn (V)
Marriage & Family Therapist
Stuber, Walter (V)
Tiberi, Laurie (V)
Director of Protestant Ministry, U of R
Widboom, Jim (V)
Chaplain, Rochester Psychiatric Center
TOTAL PRESENT
TOTAL EXCUSED
TOTAL ABSENT
Mar 21
Jan 20
May 26
P
A
A
P
P
A
Ex
Ex
Ex
A
A
A
Ex
A
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
A
A
P
P
P
7
9
9
Page 2 of 25
Sept 22
Nov 17
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
HONORABLY RETIRED MINISTERS (If serving a church, service is noted in parentheses)
(Honorably Retired Ministers, if not present, are automatically marked as “excused.”)
Name
Anderson, James
Anderson, Mary Lou
Armstrong, Louise
Ballard, Thomas
Beckhusen, Elizabeth (Lee)
Billman, Bruce
Booher, Robert
Braggins, Pauline
Brebner, Linda
Brown, Virginia (People’s Ministry In Christ)
Dimond, Jean
Evinger, Ann
Evinger, Jim
Frohman, Roderic
Frood, Neil (Presbyter for Past. Support)
Galusha, Merl
Geyer, G. Robert
Glover, J. Donald
Gordon, Dane
Grohman, Carolyn
Hay, Judy Lee
Hedges, Lucinda
Heintz, Harry
Heister, Jack
Holmquist, Bill
Ichishita, Frank Presbyter Emeritus
Josephson, Louise
Kaiser, Bob
Lee, Charles
Leport, Chuck
Lindquist, Ray
Loew, Cheryl
Madigan, Kathleen
Marlett, James
McCann, Cheryle
McConnochie, Harriet
Nelson, Lynn
Paul, Jerrold
Perec, Christine
Rice, Robert
Ricciuti, Anthony
Roth, Donald
Rossman, Kavin (Perry, Brick – Pastor)
Sallade, Ronald
Schaedel, Mary Carol
Seaburn, David
Shafer, Patricia Lawrence
Smith, David
Stevens, Encie
Strawbridge, Carol Anne
Waasdorp, Anne
Walker, George
Watt, Jane
Webster, Gordon
Wenhold, Walter
Yoder, Dorthea
Young, William
Youngdahl, Pat (DUPC – Pastor)
TOTAL PRESENT
Mar 21
Jan 20
May 26
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
P
P
P
x
Ex
P
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Rx
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
Ex
P
Ex
Ex
P
P
Ex
Ex
Ex
14
Page 3 of 25
Sept 22
Nov 17
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
CORRESPONDING MEMBERS (Ministers of another Denomination or another Presbytery Serving Presbyterian Churches in PGV)
Name
Mar 29
Jan 28
Farnsworth, Robert (American Baptist Ch.)
Pike Community, Pike, NY
May 20
Sept 23
Nov 18
A
TOTAL PRESENT
TOTAL EXCUSED
TOTAL ABSENT
COMMISSIONERS FROM CHURCHES
Church Name
Albion
Attica
Avon, Central
Barre Center
Batavia, First
Bethany (1)
Bethany (2)
Brighton
Brockport
Byron, First
Caledonia, First
Caledonia, Stone
Calvary/St. And.
Chili, First
Christ Clarion
Corfu United
Covington
Dansville, First
Dewey Avenue
Downtown United
East Avon, First
East Bethany
Elba, First
Gates (1)
Gates (2)
Geneseo, Central
Groveland Fed.
Holley, First
Honeoye Falls (1)
Honeoye Falls (2)
Irondequoit
John Calvin
John Knox
Laurelton
LeRoy, First
Lima, Lima
Livonia, First
Lyndonville
Medina, First
Mendon
Mt. Morris, United
Mumford, First
New Life
North Bergen
Nunda, Trinity
Ogden
Ossian, First
Parkminster
Penfield
Perinton (1)
Perinton (2)
Mar 21
Jan 20
May 26
A
A
Jan Lewis
A
Robert Ayers
A
A
Louise Frost
Rick Miner
A
Mary Drotar
A
David Holliday
A
A
Kate Riegel
Jerry Sturm
Barbara Stickney
A
A
A
A
A
Glad Crosdale
A
Judith Claprood
A
Ex
Ex
Ex
A
A
Priscilla Thomas
Karen Kingsbury
A
Paul Fleming
A
A
Ex
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Cathy MIssell
A
Carol Santos
A
A
Page 4 of 25
Sept 22
Nov 17
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
Perry, Brick
Pike Community
Pittsford, First (1)
Pittsford, First (2)
Pittsford, First (3)
Rochester Korean
Scottsville, Union
South
Sparta, First
Stone, Bergen
Summerville
Third (1)
Third (2)
Third (3)
Trinity Emmanuel (1)
Trinity Emmanuel (2)
Tuscarora, First
Twelve Corners
Victor, First
Warsaw United
Webster
Wyoming
York
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
A
A
Ex
A
A
A
Dee Warren
Sue Tedesco
A
Ruth Stewart
Mary Haverfield
Jim Stewart
Jeff Weis
Rob White
Roger Miller
A
A
A
A
A
TOTAL PRESENT
Alan Diehl
Robert Kelley
Shirley Mandeville
27
TOTAL EXCUSED
5
42
TOTAL ABSENT
ADDITIONAL ELDER COMMISSIONERS
(Appointed by presbytery to correct elder-clergy imbalance)
Name
Church
Carter, Ralph
Denson, Fred
Ellis, Bill
Estes, Roger
Third
Webster
Ossian
Mumford
Foerster, Cathy
Lima
Gotcsik, George
Grammer, Vernie
Gray, George
Haake, Bill, CRE
Martin, Anne
Mecredy, Bob
Minemier, Betty
Third
Irondequoit
Third
Scottsville
Livonia
Third
Dansville
Orr, Susan
Laurelton
Ross, Mark
Smith, Brad
Sprenkle, Nancy
Swain, Jerry
Tubman, Donald
Stone B’gen
Attica
Pittsford 1st
Mt. Morris
Scottsville
VanNostrand, Kay
Lyndonville
TOTAL PRESENT
TOTAL EXCUSED
TOTAL ABSENT
Relationship
Jan 20
Nominating Chair
Former Moderator
CRE
CRE
CRE
Vice-Moderator
Former Moderator
Synod C’missioner
Trustees Chair
Cong. Development
CRE
BD&O
Former Moderator
Presbyter for
Mission & Education
CRE
CRE
Former Moderator
CRE
Synod C’missioner
Former Moderator /
Chair, Mission & Ad.
Ex
Mar 21
A
P
A
P
A
A
P
A
P
P
P
P
A
A
A
A
A
P
8
1
10
Page 5 of 25
May 26
Sept 22
Nov 17
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
CERTIFIED CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS (Certified Christian Educators, if not present, are automatically excused.
Those who are ordained Ruling Elders have voice and vote.)
Name
Jan 20
Badger Becker, Elder Linda
Certified Christian Educator (Voice & Vote)
D’Angelo Vietch, Rebecca (Third)
Assoc. Cert. Christ. Ed. (Voice only)
Orr, Elder Susan (Laurelton)
Associate Certified Christian Educator
Mar 21
May 26
Sept 22
Nov 17
Ex
Ex
under
Listed
Add’l
Elder
Comm.
TOTAL PRESENT
CORRESPONDING MEMBERS ENROLLED FOR THIS MEETING
Name
None present at this meeting.
Presbytery / Agency
REGISTERED VISITORS (current meeting)
Includes CREs not serving churches
Cathy Saunders
Jane Ellis
Terry Reiff
Nancy J. Allen
Dave Fish
Ann Haag
Craig Kunkle
Bob Minemier
Ossian
Ossian
Dansville
Dansville
Gates / Byron
Third (Committee on Preparation for Ministry)
Pittsford, First (Education Director)
Dansville
SUMMARIES FOR EACH MEETING
Jan 20
Total Minister Commissioners Present*
61
Total Elder Commissioners Present
35
Parity (expressed in terms of Elders, + or -)
Mar 21
May 26
Sept 22
Nov 17
- 26
Total Minister Commissioners Absent,
Unexcused**
4
Total Churches Unrepresented by Elders***
40
Total Churches Unrepresented by Elders
and Pastors
22
Total Registered Visitors
8
* Does not include Corresponding Members, as they have only voice, not vote; includes Validated, At-large, and Honorably Retired
** Does not include Corresponding Members or Honorably Retired Ministers
*** Includes churches marked “excused”
INTRODUCTORY BUSINESS
Approval of Docket
Upon motion, the presbytery approved the docket, as presented:
Call to Order
Introductory Business
•
Approval of Docket
•
Appointment of Tellers
•
Greeting New Commissioners
•
Enrollment of Corresponding Members
•
Privilege of the Floor
Omnibus Motion
Call for New Business
Announcements and Church Events (one sentence limit)
Page 6 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Necrology Report
Report of the Presbyter for Pastoral Support & Development
Report of the Presbyter for Mission & Education
Vision & Strategy Report
•
State of the Presbytery/State of the Vision
•
How do we move forward to become more healthy, viable, and sustainable?
•
How does this impact your church?
•
How does this impact you as a participant in presbytery?
•
What do we have to offer each other?
•
Small Group conversations and feedback
•
Impact on structure / staffing / budget / stewardship ~ preliminary report on 2014 finances
•
Seeking God’s blessing through prayer and song
Greetings from the Host Church
Break
Good News from Churches
Committee on Ministry
•
Examination of the Rev. Marcia Reiff for membership and transfer from the Reformed Church in Amercia
•
Appointment of Administrative Commission to ordain Candidate Sarah Walker Cleaveland
Council Report
•
Action on proposed amendment to the Book of Confessions
•
Action on proposed amendments to the Book of Order
Presbytery Trustees
•
Action regarding Calvary St. Andrews
•
Report of Lakeside Presbyterian Church actions
Nominating Committee
“Three Things to Take Home With You” ~ the Rev. John Wilkinson
Adjournment
Election of Tellers / New Business Committee
The Moderator appointed the following persons to serve as Tellers/New Business committee:
Elder Roger Miller (Trinity Emmanuel)
Elder Gladstone Crosdale (Gates)
The Rev. Martha Sudi Layraman (Ogden)
The Rev. Chuck Roberts (John Knox)
Greeting New Commissioners
There were no first-time commissioners present.
Corresponding Members
There were none.
Privilege of the Floor
The presbytery VOTED to grant privilege of the floor to non-commissioners, for the purpose of making reports to the
presbytery, or participating in reports.
Omnibus Motion
Presbytery of Genesee Valley
January 28, 2014
The purpose of an Omnibus Motion is to enable a governing body to deal with routine business expeditiously, thus
freeing up time for other activities.
Action items are listed by number. Information items are listed by letter.
How to lift items for discussion or debate:
An opportunity will be given for presbyters to request that action items be lifted from the Omnibus Motion. Simply go to
the microphone and when you are recognized, request—by line numbers—the item you wish to lift out. [Example:
“Madam/Mr. Moderator, I wish to lift out line numbers 127 through 138 for discussion.”]
Page 7 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
ITEMS LIFTED OUT FOR DISCUSSION WILL BE DEALT WITH DURING THE COMMITTEE REPORT ASSOCIATED
WITH THAT PARTICULAR ITEM.
The remaining items (those not lifted out) will be approved in one motion.
NOTE: Many of these items (particularly Committee on Ministry items) will involve people. Welcoming of pastors,
honoring retiring pastors and pastors who are leaving, attesting to congregational meetings and speaking to the call or
the dissolution of a pastoral relationship will still occur. Also, even if routine items are voted on in the Omnibus
Motion, stories related to the items may be presented during a committee report. [For example: the action regarding
approval of Synod Mission Partnership Grants might be part of the Omnibus Motion, but the stories behind those
actions may be shared during the committee report].
Omnibus Motion: Items for Presbytery’s Action
Stated Clerk Action Items
The stated clerk moves that the presbytery:
(Minutes, November 18, 2014)
1. Approve the Minutes of the November 18, 2014 stated meeting of Genesee Valley Presbytery, held at Gates Presbyterian
Church, Rochester, NY.
(Treasurer’s Report)
2. Receive the Treasurer’s Report—Operating Statement and Balance Sheet—for December 31, 2014. [Reports provided in the
Mailed Docket.]
Omnibus Motion: Items for Presbytery’s Information
Stated Clerk Information Items
(Roster of the Permanent Judicial Commission)
A. The Book of Order requires the stated clerk of a governing body to annually report to that governing body the
names of the members of its Permanent Judicial Commission and the names of those whose terms have expired
within the past six years:
The stated clerk of the council shall keep a current roster of those members of the permanent judicial commission whose terms
have expired within the past six years. The names shall be arranged alphabetically within classes beginning with the most recent
class. Whenever the permanent judicial commission reports its inability to obtain a quorum, the stated clerk shall immediately
select, by rotation from that roster, a sufficient number of former members of the permanent judicial commission to constitute a
quorum. The stated clerk shall report the roster annually to the council. [D-5.0206b.)
The following report for 2014 lists (1) the current roster of permanent judicial commission members and (2) the expired
terms within the past six years.
Current Roster
Class of 2020 Elder Allan Reeve (Pittsford, First)
Elder Joan Wolfarth (Downtown United)
Class of 2018
The Rev. Roula Alkhouri (Batavia)
The Rev. Bruce Boak (Pittsford, First)
The Rev. Melissa DeRosia (Gates)
Class of 2016
Elder James Moore (Third)
The Rev. David Smith (HR)
Expired Terms (2008 through 2012)
Class of 2014 Elder Tom Brewer (Lakeside)
Elder Norma Polizzi (Gates)
Class of 2012
The Rev. Carin Farmer (Avon, Central)
The Rev. Gordon Webster (Honorably Retired)
Page 8 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
Class of 2010
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Elder Ray Cornelius (Pittsford, Christ Clarion)
The Rev. Carrie Mitchell (Pittsford, First)
(First Anniversaries of Ordination)
B. The following persons will celebrate their first anniversaries of ordination in 2015:
The Rev. Katey Schwind (April 13, 2014) St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Rochester, NY)
The Rev. Daniel Peters (July 13, 2014 ~ Perinton Presbyterian Church, Fairport, NY)
The Rev. Katie Jasa Styrt (September 28, 2014 ~ Gates Presbyterian Church, Rochester, NY)
(Ordination Anniversaries / 5-Year Increments)
C. The following are the significant ordination anniversaries of ministers that will occur this year (listed in 5-year
increments):
5 years (2010)
The Rev. Michael Fry (January 2, 2010 – Presbytery of Carlisle)
The Rev. Doug Holmes (February 14, 2010 – Presbytery of Albany)
The Rev. Tim Luddy (May 2, 2010 – Presbytery of Southern New England)
The Rev. Lynette Sparks (May 23, 2010 – Presbytery of Western New York)
The Rev. Kevin Hershey (June 20, 2010 – Presbytery of Boston)
The Rev. Sue Thaine (October 30, 2010 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
10 years (2005)
The Rev. Trina Portillo (June 12, 2005 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Melissa DeRosia (October 2, 2005 – Presbytery of Lake Huron)
The Rev. Ray Bagnuolo (November 13, 2005 – Presbytery of Hudson River)
15 years (2000)
The Rev. Christine Perec (February 7, 2000 – Presbytery of Western Reserve)
The Rev. Kathryn Stimson (June 11, 2000 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Colin Pritchard (September 10, 2000 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Aaron Doll (October 1, 2000– Presbytery of Western New York)
20 years (1995)
The Rev. Lucinda Hedges (January 8, 1995 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Viktoria Berlik (March 25, 1995 – Reformed Church of Hungary)
The Rev. Cheryl McCann (August 20, 1995 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
25 years (1990)
The Rev. Bob Spratt (July 21, 1990 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Virginia Brown (November 4, 1990 – Presbytery of San Diego)
30 years (1985)
The Rev. Amy Williams Fowler (July 23, 1985 – Presbytery of New Castle)
The Rev. Barbara Tipton (October 13, 1985 – Presbytery of Miami Valley)
35 years (1980)
The Rev. James Anderson (September 23, 1980 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Mary Lou Anderson (September 23, 1980 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Lynn Nelson (November 9, 1980 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
40 years (1975)
The Rev. David Seaburn (July 10, 1975– Presbytery of Shenango)
The Rev. Val Fowler (August 17, 1975 – Presbytery of Palo Duro Union)
The Rev. Mary Carol Schaedel (September 14, 1975 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
Page 9 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
45 years (1970)
The Rev. George Walker (April 1, 1970 – Presbytery of Detroit)
50 years (1965)
The Rev. Linda Brebner (February 21, 1965 – Presbytery of Riverside)
The Rev. Jack Heister (June 1, 1965 – Presbytery of Philadelphia)
The Rev. Jerrold Paul (July 27, 1965 – Presbytery of Monmouth)
Over 50 years
The Rev. Merl Galusha (51 years, February 1, 1964 – Presbytery of Albany)
The Rev. Bob Booher (53 years, October 14, 1962 – Presbytery of Genesee Valley)
The Rev. Bob Kaiser (54 years, May 1, 1961 – Central NY Conference, United Methodist Church)
The Rev. Chuck Leport (54 years, June 21, 1961 – Presbytery of Utica)
The Rev. Frank Ichishita (55 years, February 21, 1960 – Presbytery of Philadelphia)
The Rev. Charles Lee (55 years, May 15, 1960 – Presbytery of Washington)
The Rev. Bruce Billman (55 years, October 1, 1960 – Presbytery of Steuben-Elmira)
The Rev. Jean Dimond (55 years, October 1, 1960 – Presbytery of Cleveland)
The Rev. Dane Gordon (58 years, November 30, 1958 – Presbytery of Rochester)
The Rev. Ron Sallade (59 years, May 1, 1957 – Presbytery of Pittsburgh)
The Rev. Walter Wenhold (59 years, May 1, 1956 – Presbytery of Philadelphia)
The Rev. Bob Geyer (59 years, May 16, 1956 – Presbytery of Upper Ohio Valley)
The Rev. Bill Holmquist (61 years, June 24, 1954 – Presbytery of Rochester)
The Rev. William Young (64 years, July 25, 1951— Presbytery of Buffalo-Niagara)
Opportunity was given for presbyters to lift items from the Omnibus Motion, for later consideration.
None were lifted.
The presbytery VOTED to approve the Omnibus Motion.
CALL FOR NEW BUSINESS
There being no new business, the presbytery VOTED to thank the tellers for their willingness to serve as the New
Business Committee.
NECROLOGY REPORT for 2014
The Necrology Report was placed on the projector screen, for all to see. [See Appendix A]
As the names were shown, the Rev. Susan Thaine sang (from the Narthex, a-capella) Precious Lord, Take My Hand,
and Abide With Me.
The Rev. Neil Frood offered prayer.
REPORT OF THE PRESBYTER FOR PASTORAL SUPPORT & DEVELOPMENT
The Rev. Neil Frood noted that quite a few of our clergy have lost parents in the past year, and celebrated the prayers
and actions of care that have embraced them. He offered a prayer from for those who have lost parents to death.
From his own experience of the death of parents, Neil commented that with the wonderful gift of time and God’s
presence, tears and sorrow often change to laughter and joy.
He lifted up all those who have experienced the need for healing, and honored that our Presbytery Leader every
Morning sends notes seeking prayer for those in need. Neil share special gratitude for the miracle of healing at work in
the Rev. Tom Gardner (Holley), who is home and doing much better.
The Presbytery Day Apart retreat (at the Mercy Spirituality Center) will be held on February 12, 2015, focusing on
Lenten scriptures.
Page 10 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
REPORT OF THE PRESBYTER FOR MISSION & EDUCATION
Elder Susan Orr called attention to the Treasures in the Taken Docket, especially:
• The invitation to youth to be present for the March presbytery meeting
• Triple Play Mission day (a day to experience those ministries that are part of the Triple Play Grant process
• The Presbytery delegation to Ecumenical Advocacy in Washington, April 16-20, 2015.
• Leadership Development Day, January 31.
She showed today’s “prizes” for (a) the church who registers the most people for Leadership Development Day during
this meeting, and (b) the church who actually brings registrants to the event. She encouraged persons to register
through Craig Kunkle, who is present at the meeting.
VISION & STRATEGY REPORT
The Rev. Jim Renfrew and Presbytery Leader Amy Fowler guided the presentation and process of the report of the
Vision & Strategy Ministry Team.
(State of the Presbytery/State of the Vision)
Consistent with tonight’s State of the Union address, Amy and Jim presented the State of the Presbytery, 01-20-2015.
Amy Fowler shared some of the current realities of the Presbytery of Genesee Valley right now: these are simply
“Good things to know.”
Churches in the Presbytery of Genesee Valley – Our Current Reality
 65 Congregations and 2 Worshipping Communities (Seekers & People’s Ministry in Christ)
 As of 12/31/2013:
Church Size
# of Churches
Members
Aggregate
 1000+ members
1
1214

500+ members
4
2539

200+ members
7
2229
5982

100+ members
22

50+ members
18
 Fewer than 50 members 13
5334
11316
52.9% of our members belong to 12 of our churches
47.1% of our members belong to 53 of our churches
Our membership has declined by 6611 since 2000
Pastoral leadership – Our Current Reality
66 pastoral leaders are serving congregations and worshiping communities.
 50% are installed Full-Time Teaching Elders
 10.5% are Installed Part-Time Teaching Elders
 26% are Temporary Supply / Stated Supply / Interim Teaching Elders
 10.5% are Commissioned Ruling Elders (all are Part-Time)
 3% are Teaching Elders serving Worshiping Communities (all are Part-Time)
Urban Churches: 11 Pastoral Leaders
 5 Installed Full-Time (1 Associate Pastor)
 1 Installed Part-Time
 5 Temporary Supply /Stated Supply /Interim
Suburban Churches: 21 Pastoral Leaders
 16 Installed Full-Time (1 Associate Pastor)
 3 Installed Part Time
 1 Temporary Supply /Stated Supply
 1 Commissioned Ruling Elder
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Small Town/Rural Churches: 30 Pastoral Leaders
 10 Installed Full-Time
 3 Installed Part-Time
 11 Temporary Supply / Stated Supply
 6 Commissioned Ruling Elders
Worshiping Communities:
 3 Teaching Elders, all Part-Time, some shared work
Mission Giving
In 2000 General Mission Giving from congregations was @ $350,000
In 2013 General Mission Giving from congregations was @ $257,000
In 2000 Per Capita giving was @ $162,000
In 2013 Per Capita giving was @ $179,000
 2013 Per Capita giving us higher, but the number of people on which Per Capita is assessed has
declined by 6611 members, and the Per Capita amount is higher
Our Mission Statement is: To Know Christ, to Live Christ, to Share Christ . . . in the midst of our mission
field
This requires healthy, vital, and sustainable congregations and leaders, which is the most important thing we
can do as a presbytery for our current reality and God’s future!
Once upon a time, there was a vision that churches exist to serve presbytery.
Our vision is just the opposite: to embrace and nurture the mission and ministry of congregations.
The Vision & Strategy Ministry Committee of Council was formed in late 2012.
In September 2013 the Committee reported:
 The heart of the presbytery’s work is healthy, vital, and sustainable congregations and leaders
 We are called to discover new ways to gather, new ways to move forward, and new ways to deploy
staff and resources
 The Committee hosted listening sessions during a presbytery meeting, and several listening sessions
throughout the presbytery
From those activities and conversations grew:
 Vision and practice of “value-added presbytery meetings” (seeking to create presbytery meetings that
are “can’t miss / won’t miss” gatherings
 Partnerships: Triple Play grants, Urban Presbyterians Together
 Developing a “form follows function” structure, to better interact with churches and groups of churches
 Assessing the financial state of the presbytery, and the Meeting the Great Ends of the Church Fund
(5-year plan, 2011-2015, projections and actuals)
 Developing a new 5-year plan for 2016-2020, including a staffing model that aligns with our strategy
and with our financial plan
Job #1 is to focus on healthy and vital congregations and leaders.
One thing to take home is the concept of “the FLIP” – the presbytery serving the needs of congregations, to
increase the strength of their ministry.
Jim Renfrew: “Today, we are not asking you to approve a document. We are simply asking you to take note of
what is happening in the life of our presbytery.”
The leadership and the committees of our presbytery want to visit with sessions and congregations at a time
that is convenient for them, focusing on Job #1: What can we do to help you be and become healthy, vital, and
sustainable.
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Already the Vision & Strategy Committee and our presbytery are learning that:
 We have more in common than we realize.
 Yet . . . each congregation is unique!
 We have the gifts and skills among us, but we may not have a particular knowledge or skill-set needed
at this time in our own congregation.
 We are experiencing God’s call to mission, and God’s care for us as individuals and as a church.
 We may be able to offer each other such skills and knowledge.
 We may be able to share leadership without losing our identities.
 We may be able to engage wider communities by working together on specific needs and issues,
without losing our identities.
 Partnership requires conscientious work, to be effective.
 The presbytery could help by providing facilitators for partnership conversations, and resources to help
meet the needs of our communities, as well as skills training and encouragement.
 The most important ingredient is prayer—with and for each other.
Our vision is:
 Committees and teams focused on Job #1
 Presbytery Gatherings focused on equipping congregational leaders for Job #1
 Teamwork (beyond Triennial Visits) at your place
 Solidarity, not charity!
Ask yourself and ask your sessions: Where could my congregation use support, encouragement, and help
from others?
The Presbytery Nominating Committee Is already a part of the “flip” that is happening. They are not calling
people to support the presbytery, but more to support and help our congregations. Rather than inviting people
to serve in a certain way, they first invite people to pray about serving in a certain way.
(Small Group conversations and feedback)
Fifteen minutes in small groups (three or four, and not from the same church)
• How do we move forward to become more healthy, viable, and sustainable?
• How does this impact your church?
• How does this impact you as a participant in presbytery?
• What do we have to offer each other?
(Feedback & comments from groups)
There are churches in this presbytery that are bleeding members; others that are not. Perhaps we can learn from
those that are not.
Almost all of our churches are seeing gray hairs, wondering how to attract younger people.
Response from Amy Fowler
This is a reality of our existence.
The intriguing expression for people the age of our children and grandchildren is, “How will their
experience of faith be different from ours, and what will those differences be?”
Then, the important question is talking and asking yourself,
“What really matters to them?”
“What will their authentic faith in the 21st century be, and how can we be a part of that?”
If we reach out to them, expecting that they will solve our membership decline or our financial struggles,
well . . . that ain’t gonna happen.”
The “flip” is the right thing to do even if there were no realities, because it is what the Spirit is leading us to do and
be. Thank you for the non-anxious presentation of the reality. It helps us to be responsive to where the Spirit is
leading.
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Our local congregations’ memories are much longer than the presbytery’s memory. As we flip, we may want to
remember this dynamic. Another comment: “Maybe we all ought to sing, Let it go, let it go.”
Perhaps 80 students out of 5,400 at the University of Rochester will walk through the doors of the Interfaith Chapel
on Sunday, and 40% of them are Jewish or Muslim.
One of the things we—who are on both sides of the “flip”—could do would be to encourage our congregations to
take the risk of having the vulnerability to ask for help. Then, it is necessary for the presbytery to find some helpful
ways to follow up.
The presbytery offered enthusiastic appreciation for the presentation of the Vision & Strategy Committee, and Jim
Renfrew led the presbytery in prayer.
(Preliminary Financial Report)
Bob Macredy led the presbytery through the Operating Statement.
• The Operating Statement shows that we budgeted for $250,000 and received just under $240,000.
• Presbytery Per Capita was budged for about $190,000; income was $179,000.
• On the expense side, the committees did a fine job of accomplishing their work within the budget. With the
staffing changes and the realignment of duties, we saw some savings in that area.
• This year, about 20% of our budget will come from the Budget Support line, Meeting the Great Ends of the
Church.
• In addition, 2014 was a very good year, financially. The final 2014 report will be presented to the presbytery in
March.
Kay Michelinie noted that in 2014 we earned about 7% on the presbytery’s investment funds. She honored that those
investments reflect the faithfulness and generosity of those who have gone before us. The budget team is always
looking forward as much as five years, and at least one year; and not focusing on only this year. In that vein, we will
need about $130,000 from such funds to sustain the presbytery in 2015. The first five year plan has stayed within the
parameters of the use of the “Meeting the Great Ends of the Church” fund.
(Seeking God’s blessing through prayer and song)
Members of the Vision & Strategy Ministry Team—Laura Fry, Tom Taylor, Val Fowler, Susan Orr—led the presbytery
in a brief worship service of prayer, Scripture, and song.
GREETINGS FROM THE HOST CHURCH
The Rev. Sudi Layraman offered a gracious and joyful welcome to the presbytery.
In turn presbyters thanked the members of the Ogden Church for turning “light refreshments” into a wonderful buffet
lunch!
15 MINUTE BREAK
RECONVENING
Following the break, Moderator-Elect Cathy Foerster assumed the role of moderator.
GOOD NEWS FROM CHURCHES
Penfield – The outpouring of love for Sue Thaine, in the recent death of her father, and the deepening of relationships
that has grown through that experience..
Page 14 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
The Rev. Nancy Reinert presented the report.
ITEMS FOR PRESBYTERY’S ACTION
The Committee VOTED to recommend that the presbytery:
(Transfer of Membership from Another Denomination)
[NOTE: The following action was postponed from the November 18, 2014 meeting of the presbytery to the January 20, 2015 meeting,
due to the death of a family member, which took the Rev. Reiff out of town.]
1. Examine the Rev. Marcia Rose Reiff (Dansville / member of the Reformed Church in America) for membership in
the Presbytery of Genesee Valley. [The presbytery examined the Rev. Reiff, and voted to sustain the examination.]
2. Approve the request to transfer the membership of the Rev. Marcia Rose Reiff from the Reformed Church in
America to the Presbyterian Church (USA), effective January 20, 2015; and enroll her as a minister member of the
Presbytery of Genesee Valley.
The moderator led the presbytery in prayer. On behalf of the Clergy Care & Development, Neil Frood presented a
welcome packet to the Rev. Reiff.
(Administrative Commission to Ordain / Candidate Sarah Walker Cleaveland)
3. Appoint the following Administrative Commission to Ordain candidate Sarah Walker Cleaveland on Sunday
February 15, 2015 at 10:45 a.m. in the sanctuary of Third Presbyterian Church, Rochester, N;, at the request of the
Presbytery of Chicago.
The Rev. John Wilkinson (Third) – Moderator’s designee to preside
The Rev. Carol Anne Strawbridge, Honorably Retired
The Rev. Val Fowler (Honeoye Falls)
Elder Karen Walker (Third)
Elder Tracy Walker (Third)
Elder Susan Orr (Laurelton)
Elder Theresa Markham (Honeoye Falls)
Other participants:
The Rev. Adam Walker Cleaveland (Presbytery of Chicago)
4. Enroll the Rev. Adam Cleaveland as a Corresponding Member of the Administrative Commission to Ordain.
5. Authorize the Moderator’s designee to make any necessary and appropriate changes in the Administrative
Commission.
ACTIONS TAKEN ON BEHALF OF PRESBYTERY
(Holley / Leadership during the pastor’s recovery)
The Committee celebrated the transfer of the Rev. Tom Gardner to Cardiac Rehabilitation in Medina, and offered
prayer for him, his family and the Holley congregation. The Committee celebrated the ways the presbytery has taken
initiative to support Tom and the congregation, since the time he entered the hospital. The presbytery has secured
pulpit supply for the next two months (and will beyond that, if necessary) and provided monetary support to the
congregation for pulpit supply.
The Committee VOTED to:
1. Authorize the Rev. David Kilgore (a minister member of the Presbytery of Geneva and a resident of Avon, NY) to
preside at the Service of Ordination of church officers; and to serve as moderator of the annual congregation meeting.
2. Appoint the Rev. Jim Renfrew (Byron) as moderator of the session during the Rev. Gardner’s convalescence and
recovery.
ACTIONS REPORTED AS INFORMATION
The Committee on Ministry VOTED to:
(Webster / the Rev. Eileen Borduin Vanderzwaan)
Page 15 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
1. Approve the Stated Supply Associate Pastor Contract and Terms of Call (full-time) between the session of Webster
Presbyterian Church, Webster, NY and the Rev. Eileen Borduin Vanderzwan, effective December 1, 2014 through
December 1, 2015:
Cash Salary
Housing Allowance
Utilities
Medical Deductible Benefit
Total Effective Salary
30,417.00
14,764.00
3,283.00
1,453.00
49,917.00
Social Security Offset
Board of Pensions Benefits
Continuing Education
Travel & Professional Expense
3,704.00
17,454.00
887.00
2,216.00
Study Leave: 2 weeks
Vacation: 30 days including 5 Sundays
Sick leave: 1 day/month, cumulative to 90 days
(Brockport / the Rev. Alan Dailey)
2. Approve the Interim Pastor Contract and Terms of Call (full-time) between the session of First Presbyterian Church,
Brockport, NY and the Rev. Alan Dailey (a minister in the United Church of Christ), effective December 1, 2014:
Cash Salary
Housing Allowance
Total Effective Salary
Social Security Offset
Health Insurance & Pension (UCC)
Non-PCUSA plan
Continuing Education
Travel & Professional Expense
29,000.00
16,000.00
45,000.00
3,445.00
7,975.00
9,000.00
800.00
4,815.00
Study Leave: 2 weeks
Vacation: 30 days including 5 Sundays
Sick leave: 1 day/month, cumulative to 90 days
(Gates / the Rev. Katie Jasa)
3. Approve revised Stated Supply Associate Terms of Call (full-time) between the session of Gates Presbyterian
Church, Rochester, NY and the Rev. Katie Jasa:
Cash Salary
Housing Allowance
Utilities
Medical Deductible Benefit
Total Effective Salary
31,400.00
9,900.00
1,200.00
1,500.00
44,000.00
Social Security Offset
Benefits Plan (PCUSA)
Continuing Education
Travel & Professional Expense
3,251.00
17,69200
800.00
4,716.00
Study Leave: 2 weeks
Vacation: 30 days including 5 SundaysSick leave: 1 day/month, cumulative to 90 days
(Caledonia, Stone / Discernment Team)
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
4. Approve the request of the session of Stone Presbyterian Church, Caledonia, NY for a Discernment Team,
according to the provisions of the presbytery’s Guidelines and Procedures for the Dismissal or Reconciliation of
Member Churches.
(Tuscarora / Service of the Lord’s Supper)
5. Approve the request of the session of First Presbyterian Church, Tuscarora, NY to grant permission for Ruling
Elder Carmen Vianese to officiate the Services of the Lord’s Supper on the following dates:
December 24, 2014 (Christmas Eve)
April 5, 2015 (Easter Sunday)
October 4, 2015 (World Communion Sunday)
December 24, 2015 (Christmas Eve)
[NOTE: The presbytery has previously granted such permission to Elder Vianese, who has received the
appropriate training required by the Book of Order.]
(Mendon / the Rev. The Rev. Ed Hoener)
6. Approve the revised Interim Pastor Contract and Terms of Call (full-time) between the session of Mendon
Presbyterian Church, Mendon, NY and the Rev. Ed Hoener, effective January 1, 2015 through October 12, 2015.
Cash Salary
Housing Allowance
Total Effective Salary
38,000.00
6,000.00
44,000.00
Social Security Offset
Board of Pensions Benefits
Continuing Education
Travel & Professional Expense
3,366.00
16,060.00
800.00
4,716.00
Study Leave: 2 weeks
Vacation: 30 days including 5 Sundays
Sick leave: 1 day/month, cumulative to 90 days
(Ossian / Ruling Elder Bill Ellis, Commissioned Ruling Elder)
7. Approve the Commissioned Ruling Elder Contract and Terms of Call (25% time) between the session of First
Presbyterian Church, Ossian, NY and Ruling Elder Bill Ellis, CRE, effective January 1, 2015 through December 31,
2015:
Cash Salary
Total Effective Salary
Social Security Offset
Continuing Education
Travel & Professional Expense
8.800.00
8,800.00
673.00
800.00
953.00
Study Leave: 2 weeks
Vacation: 30 days including 5 Sundays
Sick leave: 1 day/month, cumulative to 90 days
(Brockport / the Rev. Alan Dailey)
8. Approve the following amendments to the Interim Pastor Covenant between the session of First Presbyterian
Church, Brockport, NY and the Rev. Alan Dailey (UCC / Formula of Agreement):
Paragraph 5 c. – Accumulation of vacation time and payment for unused vacation.
• Vacation time would be accrued at 2.5 days per month worked, or 5 weeks per year. Up to 5 weeks of
unused accrued vacation would be paid upon termination of the covenant.
• Study Leave allowance would be available after six months.
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
(Consultant to COM / the Rev. Jim Evinger)
9. Approve continued appointment of the Rev. Jim Evinger, HR as a consultant with the Committee on Ministry with
regard to issues of sexual misconduct and sexual abuse.
(Triennial Visits Scheduled)
• Attica, First: February 10, 2015 (Brad Smith, CRE / David Seaburn, COM Liaison)
• Nunda, Trinity: March 10, 2015 at 6 30 PM (Ron Duttweiler, Pastor / Jan Lewis, COM Liaison)
• Mumford, First: March 16, 2015 at 6:00 PM (Roger Estes, CRE / Jan Lewis, COM Liaison)
REPORT OF THE PRESBYTERY COUNCIL
The Rev. Jim Renfrew presented the report of the Presbytery Council.
ITEMS FOR THE PRESBYTERY’S ACTION
The Presbytery of Genesee Valley VOTED to:
(Proposed Amendment to the Book of Confessions – Confession of Belhar 14-1)
1. Approve including the Confession of in the Book of Confessions?
[NOTE: Inclusion of the Confession of Belhar in the Book of Confessions will require: (1) approval of 2/3 of the
presbyteries in the Presbyterian Church USA) and (2) approval by the next General Assembly (2016, Portland,
OR).]
(Proposed Amendments to the Book of Order)
2. Approve the following proposed amendments to the Book of Order.
[NOTE: Action will be taken on these proposed amendments one-by-one, unless a motion is made to vote on
all or part of them in one motion.]
(14-A. Renunciation of Jurisdiction: On Amending G-2.0509
Amend G-2.0509 of the Form of Government by adding the following new paragraph at the end of that
section. [Text to be added or inserted is shown in italic.]
“Whenever a former teaching elder has renounced jurisdiction in the midst of a disciplinary proceeding as
the accused, that former teaching elder shall not be permitted to perform any work, paid or volunteer, in
any congregation or entity under the jurisdiction of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).”
(14-B.1. Final Assessment)
Amend G-2.0607 of the Form of Government as follows. [Text to be deleted is show with strike-through; text
to be added or inserted is shown in italic.]
“A candidate may not enter into negotiation for his or her service as a teaching elder without approval of
the presbytery of care. The presbytery shall record when it has certified a candidate ready for
examination by a presbytery for ordination, pending a call. Evidence of readiness to begin ordered
ministry as a teaching elder shall include:
“a. [Text in a.–c. remains unchanged.]
“d. satisfactory grades, together with the examination papers examination materials, together with
evaluations that declare those materials satisfactory in the areas covered by any standard ordination
examination approved by the General Assembly. Such examinations shall be prepared and administered
by a body created by the presbyteries.”
(14-B.2. Accomodations)
Amend G-2.0610 of the Form of Government as follows. [Text to be deleted is show with strike-through; text
to be added or inserted is shown in italics.]
“G-2.0610 Exceptions Accommodations to Particular Circumstances
“By a three-fourths vote, a presbytery When a presbytery concludes there are good and sufficient
reasons for accommodations to the particular circumstances of an individual seeking ordination, it may,
by a three-fourths vote, waive any of the requirements for ordination in G-2.06, except for those of G2.0607d. If a presbytery judges that there are good and sufficient reasons why a candidate should not
Page 18 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
be required to satisfy the requirements of G-2.0607d, it shall approve by three-quarters vote some
alternate means by which to ascertain the readiness of the candidate for ministry in the areas covered
by the standard ordination examinations. A full account of the reasons for exception any waiver or
alternate means to ascertain readiness shall be included in the minutes of the presbytery and
communicated to the presbytery to which an inquirer or candidate may be transferred.”
(14-C Child Protection Policy)
Amend the fourth paragraph of G-3.0106 as follows. [Text to be added or inserted is shown in italic.]
“All councils shall adopt and implement a sexual misconduct policy and a child protection policy.
(14-D Minimum Composition of a Presbytery)
Amend the second paragraph of G-3.0301 of the Form of Government as follows. [Text to be added or
inserted is shown in italic.]
“The minimum composition of a presbytery is ten duly constituted sessions and ten teaching elders,
unless an exception is approved by its synod and the General Assembly giving consideration to the
responsibilities assigned to presbyteries in G-3-01 and G-3.03.”
(14-E Interreligious Stance)
Amend G-5.0102 of the Form of Government as follows. . [Text to be deleted is show with strike-through; text
to be added or inserted is shown in italics.]
“The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) at all levels seeks new will be open to and will seek opportunities
for conversation and understanding respectful dialogue and mutual relationships with non-Christian
entities and persons from other religious [entities] traditions. It does this in the faith that the church of
Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, is a sign and means of God’s intention for the
wholeness of all humankind and all creation.”
Amendment 14-F (Marriage) will be considered during the March 21, 2015 stated meeting of the presbytery.
ITEMS FOR THE PRESBYTERY’S INFORMATION
(Presbytery & Council Meeting Dates/Times/Locations)
Note that Council meets between Presbytery meetings, instead of monthly.
• PRESBYTERY:
Tuesday, January 20, 1:30 – 5:30 PM, Ogden (with refreshments, no dinner)
• EVENT:
Saturday, January 31, Church Leadership Development Day, 9:00 AM
• COUNCIL:
Monday, February 23, 6:00 PM, Chili
• PRESBYTERY:
Saturday, March 21, Bethany PC, 9:00 – 2:00 PM
• COUNCIL:
Monday, April 27, 6:00 PM
• PRESBYTERY:
Tuesday, May 26, 4:00 PM
• COUNCIL:
Monday, June 22, 6:00 PM, Livonia Center
• PRESBYTERY
Tuesday July 28 (if necessary), time & location to be determined
The Presbytery Council VOTED to:
(Recommended Changes to Synod of the Northeast By-laws)
1. Invite the Rev. Anne Waasdorp and other Synod Commissioners to the February 23, 2015 Council meeting.
2. Establish the March 21, 2015 presbytery meeting as the date for taking action on the proposed revisions to
the By-Laws of the Synod of the Northeast.
PRESBYTERY TRUSTEES
Elder George Gray, Chair of the Board of Trustees presented the report. Upon recommendation by the Presbytery
Trustees, the presbytery VOTED to:
(Calvary St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Parish)
The Presbytery Board of Trustees, having received and reviewed a verified copy of the Petition of Calvary St.
Andrew’s Presbyterian Parish (the “Church”), 68 Ashland Street, Rochester, New York, recommends that the
Presbytery of Genesee Valley, Inc.:
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
•
•
•
•
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
Waive the issuance and service of a citation by the Surrogate Court for the County of Monroe, with regard to
the Petition of the “Church” to reform the Rippey Organ Fund bequest under Article FOURTH of the Will of
Joseph S. Rippey; and
Consent to the entry of an order or decree reforming such bequest, and consent to the distribution of $20,000
of principal from the fund as well as the use of approximately $20,000 of accumulated income for the cost of
repair of the Church’s pipe organ; and,
Consent to such other and further relief as the Court may find proper; and
Authorize the Chair of the Presbytery Board of Trustees, the Stated Clerk of Presbytery and/or the Presbytery
Leader, to execute and deliver a Waiver of Process and Consent, and such other and additional documents as
may be necessary and appropriate to effectuate the foregoing.
Background and Rationale:
The Church’s pipe organ, which was constructed in 1916, has sustained severe damage from plaster dust
generated by a sanctuary repair project. An assessment by Parsons Pipe Organ Builders of Canandaigua, NY,
concluded that the organ components should be disassembled and transported to the Parsons facility for
cleaning before being reassembled, and the organ voiced and tuned. The estimate for this work is $31,500,
and Parsons is also recommending additional maintenance costing $6,500, for a total of $38,000.
The Church does not have the funds to perform this work, but is the beneficiary of the Rippey Organ Fund, a
restricted endowment fund, the income only of which is to be used for organ maintenance and repair. The
original bequest was in the amount of $50,000, and there is presently accumulated income of approximately
$21,000. The Church is petitioning the Surrogate Court to authorize the use of $20,000 of the endowment fund
principal for this repair, in addition to the accumulated income presently available for use.
The “reformation” of this bequest furthers the general charitable purposes of the bequest to provide a
functioning organ for the worship and life of the church and to provide a continuing memorial to the decedent
and his family, purposes which would otherwise be impossible to fulfill since the organ in its present state
without the repair and refurbishment is not usable.]
January 8, 2015
(Information regarding the Dissolution of Lakeside Presbyterian Church)
The congregation celebrated the life of the Church on December 14, 2014, and worshipped together for the final time
on December 28, 2014. Pastoral care for the homebound members is being shared by neighboring churches.
The Lakeside Child and Family Center continues to use the building, and the license is being transferred to Creative
Beginnings Childcare Center (also a licensed not-for-profit corporation). Members from the Lakeside Board are being
invited to serve on the Creative Beginnings Board. The staff and the children served remain the same.
The formation of the Administrative Commission for the exploration of a continuing missional use for the property,
approved by the Presbytery at the November 2014 meeting continues, and will be reported by the Moderator of
Presbytery.
In the event that the remaining funds of the church are not used to support the missional use of the site, the Session
recommends to the Budget Development and Oversight Committee Collaboration Group and the Presbytery the
following percentage allocation for funds given for community mission:
Foodlink – 40%
Lakeside Child and Family Center – 10%
Rochester Children’s Network – 10%
Local Habitat for Humanity – 10%
Alternatives for Battered Women – 10%
Cameron Community Ministries – 10%
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance – 10%
The congregation and the Committee on Ministry thank the Rev. Phil Davis for his caring service to the congregation
as Supply Pastor for September-December 2014.
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MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
The presbytery VOTED to:
(Stated Clerk)
1. Suspend for one year the provision of the presbytery’s Manual of Operations regarding the election and the term of
the Stated Clerk; and
2. Extend the current term of the Rev. Val Fowler (Honeoye Falls) as Stated Clerk, from February 1, 2015 through
January 31, 2016.
Rationale:
This recommendation comes from the Nominating Committee with the concurrence of the Personnel
Committee; and after conversation with the Stated Clerk. This action support a planning year for the staffing
design and financial plan of the presbytery for the years 2016 through 2020.
(Treasurer)
3. Elect the Rev. Kay Michelinie (Christ Clarion) as Treasurer for the term of February 1, 2015 through January 31,
2016. [NOTE: The Treasurer is elected annually by the presbytery.]
(Synod Mission & Ministries Commission – formerly Synod Council)
4. Elect the following persons to the new Synod Mission & Ministries Commission:
The Rev. Anne Waasdorp (HR) – Class of 2016
Elder Lisbeth DaBramo (Geneseo) – Class of 2016
(Synod Commissioners)
5. Elect the following persons as Synod Commissioners:
The Rev. Linda Brebner (HR) – Principal, Class of 2016
Elder Vernie Grammer (Third) – Principal, Class of 2016
“THREE THINGS TO TAKE HOME WITH YOU”
The Rev. John Wilkinson addressed the presbytery:
John began by lifting up the Rev. William Young, in the death yesterday of his wife, Ann.
He noted that an opportunity at every presbytery meeting is communication: how can we take what we have
experienced and learned back to our sessions and congregations, to continue the conversation.
He offered three things to take with us as we leave:
1. We care for one another a very great deal, as expressed by connecting the Necrology with Neil Frood’s report
regarding care for persons of the presbytery.
2. The FLIP – Not just the “flip” itself, but more importantly how mindful and thoughtful we are trying to be in this
discernment process, without being driven by reactivity or anxiety. The Vision & Strategy report and
conversation modeled that thoughtfulness. There was no judgment, simply an expression of realities which will
help our discernment.
And . . . how grateful we are for the leadership of Amy Fowler and Susan Orr as we discover the way forward.
3. Belhar – This is one of the most profound statements a church has ever made, especially in light of recent
events in our own country. It will be the only confession in the Book of Confessions from south of the Equator,
and speaks directly to the commitment and challenges of racial justice.
ADJOURNMENT
Moderator Elect Cathy Foerster led the presbytery in prayer.
ATTEST: _________________________
Val Fowler, Stated Clerk
APPENDIX A: Necrology Report, 2015
APPENDIX B: “Preliminary” 2014 Operating Statement, 01/01/2014 through 12/31/2014
APPENDIX C: Unified Mission Budget Per Capita Contribution Report, 01/01/2014 through 12/31/2014
Page 21 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
APPENDIX A
2014
MEMORIAL TRIBUTE:
ELDERS AND MINISTERS OF THE PRESBYTERY
We give thanks for the lives of these women and men whom we have
known and loved, who were examples for us of lives lived in faith and
service to Jesus Christ, who have now entered the joy that God has
prepared.
We give thanks to God for each of them, for their vision and hope,
steadfastness and love, and for the grace, which was given to them.
May we so follow their good example that we may be one with them in
spirit, and at the last enter with them into the fullness of God’s unending
joy, and saving love in Jesus Christ.
ELDERS AND MINISTERS OF THE PRESBYTERY OF GENESEE VALLEY
*NOT REPORTED IN JANUARY 2013 REPORT
Date of Ordination
Date of Death
ALBION
Robert Linberg
Unknown
February 7, 2014
ATTICA
Marilyn Bathrick
January 22, 1978
December 20, 2014
AVON
Marian L. Bailey
Sethford L. Powell
January 20, 1983
February 5, 1995
April 8, 2014
November 18, 2014
BARRE CENTER
Reid Daum
Judy Fancher
1985
1991
November 6, 2014
May 6, 2014
BETHANY
Bernard Montanari
Grace Roberts
Richard E. Wemple
Ruth Kathryn Wright Wroblewski
December 29, 1974
June 17, 2001
February 6, 1966
January 20, 1974
March 7, 2014
August 18, 2014
August 22, 2014
June 16, 2014
BYRON
Warren Leaton
February 1960
December 19, 2014
CALEDONIA FIRST
Elizabeth DeNoon
Patricia Grant
Willda VanOstrand
January 20, 1974
January 17, 1989
January 25, 1970
August 31, 2014
November 25, 2014
July 8, 2014
Page 22 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
CORFU
The Rev. Charles Alexander
Lucille Pahika
October 8, 1995
1990
March 11, 2014
May 13, 2014
DOWNTOWN
Lillian (Onolee) Haskell
Lynn Loveland
Lillian Price
1965
1983
1967
November 15, 2014
May 29, 2014
February 11, 2014
ELBA
Jean G. Hare
January 1987
February 5, 2014
GATES
Marion Keagle
January 1993
May 6, 2014
GENESEO CENTRAL
Donald McConnell
2006
January 17, 2014
HOLLEY FIRST
Edward Mellville
January 13, 1991
November 28, 2014
JOHN CALVIN
Laura Howitt Craft
Clare Gilgallon Housan
June 26, 1964
March 15, 1964
March 18, 2014
August 10, 2014
JOHN KNOX
Betty Jean Green Anderson
January 31, 1960
November 18, 2014
LAURELTON
James (Jim) Smith
January 1963
October 4, 2014
LEROY
Carlton W Seaburg
W. Douglas Call
Charles Heywood
Sandra Jones
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown
Unknown
May 16, 2014
April 14, 2013*
February 18, 2013*
July 23, 2013*
LIMA
Virginia Hayes
Vivian Schillinger
January 1969
January 1959
February 3, 2014
February 22, 2014 (age 101!)
LYNDONVILLE
Donald Bentley
January 30, 1982
May 29, 2014
MENDON
Elizabeth Sheeler
Unknown
October 23, 2014
MOUNT MORRIS
Jack Hanna
February 9, 1997
May 30, 2014
NEW LIFE
Robert Wandtke
April 25, 1976
November 28, 2014
PARKMINSTER
Daniel Wright
January 19, 1992
November 24, 2014
Page 23 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
PENFIELD
R. William Bentley
Joyce Longwell Deyle
May 18, 1969
June 25, 1975
April 22, 2014
February 2, 2014
PIKE COMMUNITY
Marion Albro
June 1962
February 24, 2014
PITTSFORD FIRST
Trudy Dublin
Gerry Vesling
June 6, 1993
May 11, 1975
December 8, 2014
February 27, 2014
SCOTTSVILLE UNION
Martha Carlberg
Berenice Gray
January 29, 1984
1967
November 26, 2014
June 31, 2014
STONE BERGEN
Marian Airth
Dean Nichols
February 5, 1995
April 19, 1962
July 27, 2014
February 6, 2014
THIRD
James P. Chisholm
Elizabeth B. Edgerton
Margaret C. Koop
1998
1992
Unknown
January 19, 2014
January 19, 2014
August 15, 2014
TWELVE CORNERS
Michael Stickney
January 1973
July 26, 2014
WARSAW
Phyllis Drennen
1992
May 25, 2014
WEBSTER
Mary Lou Davison
Richard Hunt
February 4, 1990
January 25, 1989
January 28, 2014
July 25, 2014
WYOMING
Clayton Ewell
January 8, 1963
April 25, 2014
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Page 24 of 25
MINUTES OF STATED PRESBYTERY MEETING OF JANUARY 20, 2015
OGDEN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
SPENCERPORT, ROCHESTER, NY
APPENDIX B
“Preliminary” 2014 Operating Statement, 01/01/2014 through 12/31/2014
APPENDIX C
Unified Mission Budget Per Capita Contribution Report, 01/01/2014 through 12/31/2014
Page 25 of 25