P RESBYTERY OF THE J AMES 3218 C HAMBERLAYNE A VE ., R ICHMOND , VA 23227 804-262-2074 ~ 877-262-2074 March 19, 2015 Dear brothers and sisters in POJ: As many of you have learned, the required majority of presbyteries appear to have approved Amendment 14-F to our Directory for Worship. It is the amendment that changes the definition of marriage to “two people, traditionally a man and a woman.” This approval by a majority of presbyteries will change our Directory for Worship effective June 21, 2015. We are in a time to live into the meaning of this change. It does mean that ministers have the right to perform or not to perform marriages. That is a decision that has always been available to all ministers. Secondly, it means that Sessions decide whether to have marriages on church property. Every wedding to be performed on church property will need Session approval. We are in quite a transition as a church and as a society. Things are quite different as the definition of marriage in our state has also changed. Let us talk with one another and pray with one another about how we might move forward together. I am delighted to speak with Sessions, Sunday School classes, or individuals about the implications of this change. I will also be glad to share some ideas I have about the whole matter of marriage and the church. Blessings on the work of your congregation during this Lenten Season….may Jesus Christ continue to be lifted up and his name glorified. In Christ’s Service, H. Carson Rhyne, Jr. H. Carson Rhyne, Jr. General Presbyter