EMerge: Monthly

A Publication of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area

Volume Four, Issue Four April 2010

Signing Up for GA
During the March 2010 Pres-
bytery Meeting, Julie Flingai,
left, the Project Assistant for
the Committee on Local Ar-
rangements of the 219th
General Assembly, helps pro-
spective volunteer register to
help prepare for the upcom-
ing meeting this summer in
Minneapolis.

In this issue:
Report of the Moderator Presbytery Looks for New Treasurer
 
Page 2 EMerge: Monthly

Inside Note
By Paula Sandersy Chaz Ruark

The days towards General Assembly are getting shorter and shorter. In my role as Executive
Coordinator, I’ve been going around the Presbytery asking for volunteers to help before and dur-
ing General Assembly. The response has been great! Thanks for all who have already signed
up to participate.

That said, I need to ask a favor: can we borrow your voice on July 4th?

The Committee of Local Arrangements is in the beginning stages of putting together a MASS
CHOIR for the Opening Worship service at the Minneapolis Convention Center on July 4th. Indi-
Can we bor- viduals are welcome to be a part of the mass choir as well as entire church choirs. There will be
rehearsals prior to the event and we hope that church choirs will practice at home. Please check
row your the COLA website (www.cola2010.org) for details. Music has been chosen and will be avail-
voice on July able to church choirs in two weeks, so stay tuned. If you’re interested in lending your voice,
please contact COLA at ga219cola@gmail.com.
4th?
Rev. Paula Sanders is the Executive Coordinator for the Committee on Local Arrangements of the
219th General Assembly in Minneapolis.

Plugging In Without Shorting Out

April 16-18, Des Moines, IA

Churches using new technology and social networking are

getting the upper hand on attracting members. Workshop
speakers will help congregations to embrace technology
without blowing up the church! This three-day conference is
sponsored by the Transformation Team of the Des Moines
Presbytery and will be held at the Downtown Des Moines
Marriot. Cost is $150 if registering before March 15. Small
and rural church members are encouraged to attend. Go to
www.presbyteryofdesmoines.org for information flier and
registration form.
Page 3 EMerge: Monthly

Contents: April 2010

Read the highlights of the
Page Seven March 2010 Presbytery
Meeting in Roseville, MN.

Page Four

Jin S. Kim, moderator for the

Kara Root muses on being both a Presbytery, shares his thoughts.
minister and a mother.

Think St. Patrick’s

Page Eleven Day is all about
wearing green?
Page Ten
Irishman Neil
Craigan reminds
us of the real St.
Inside Note Page 2
Patrick and what
he means for the
Washington PC(USA) Office Page 12 church.
Chooses Gets New Leader

Transitions Page 14

The Presbyterian
Women of the PTCA
Portland for GA-222; Over- Page 15
meet for their Spring
ture on College Ministry
Gathering on April
Presbybriefs Page 17 24.

Positions Available Page 20

Events Calendar Page 21 Page Sixteen

Page 4 EMerge: Monthly

Report of the Moderator

.By Jin S. Kim ble and onerous system, an ecclesial bureaucracy that is of-
ten faceless, cold, oppressive, irresponsible, cowardly, and
Jin S. Kim, moderator of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities
utterly unimaginative. I quarrel with our sense of entitlement
Area as well as the Pastor of Church of All Nations Presbyte-
to the prestige of a bygone era. I quarrel with the pervasive
rian Church in Columbia Heights, MN gave his report to the
fear of change, making the emergence of new life almost
March 2010 meeting of the Presbytery. His report gave his
impossible. I quarrel with the racism that makes us even now
reasons for standing as a candidate for Moderator of the
a 93% white, Euro-centric denomination in the 21st century
Presbyterian Church (USA). The Moderator will be chosen at
(!), unable to embody the sovereignty of God and the priest-
General Assembly this summer in Minneapolis. You can
hood of all believers in our local congregations. I even quar-
download the report by going to the Presbytery website at
rel with the endless quarreling between the Left and the Right,
www.ptcaweb.org.
between those in the center and those on the margins. Nev-
ertheless, my quarrel is a lover’s quarrel.

I regret that due to unforeseen

circumstances at the last presby-
I love the church. I don’t believe that I
tery meeting I did not get a
was born in the East, grew up in the
chance to share with you all why
West, and had the joy of visiting some-
I sought your endorsement to
how over 30 countries and all 50 states
stand for moderator of the 2010
without a providential reason. In my 17
  General Assembly. It was some-
years of pastoral ministry I have served on
what frustrating that I had to
committees and councils of the presbytery,
recuse myself from leading the
synod and general assembly, as well as
very portion of the meeting that
ecumenical agencies. I currently serve on
was most confusing. But I prom- Congregational Mission Grants
the boards of Greater Minneapolis Coun-
ised then that I would share with
The 2010 Congregational Mission cil of Churches, the Minnesota Council of
you today my rationale for what
Grants provided by the Mission and Churches, the Greater Minnesota Associa-
many consider a crazy move. So
Witness Committee of the Presbytery of tion of Evangelicals, the National Council
here goes.
of Churches, and the global Lausanne
the Twin Cities Area are now
Movement. I also serve on the GA Spe-
available. Congregational Mission
cial Committee on the Belhar Confession,
I am a third generation Presbyte- Grant funding exists to encourage PTCA
the Jewish-PCUSA Dialogue, as adjunct
rian nurtured in faith by loving congregations to develop innovative professor at Dubuque Seminary, and as
Korean immigrant congregations ministries in the local communities.
an ongoing instructor at Princeton Semi-
in South Carolina and Georgia. I
nary. I’m not trying to boast here, but I
went to college, then immediately The Mission and Witness Committee is
have come to find out since the last meet-
to seminary, then immediately to looking for applications between March
ing that many of you really don’t know
pastoral ministry and ordina- and September of 2010. If your much about my background and the ex-
tion. I have been a local church congregation is interested in applying,
periences that shape who I am. The com-
pastor for the past 17 years, and please go to the presbytery website
bination of preaching regularly at my
have loved every minute – yes,
(www.presbyterytwincities.org) local church, the countless speaking en-
even the minutes that include
and download the application or contact gagements I tend to, and the theological
presbytery meetings! I love the
writing that I engage in constantly inform
Presbyterian Church passionately, committee chair Walter Chuquimia at
my understanding of the church.
and one of the reasons I am mission@ptcaweb.org.
standing for moderator is to love
this massive church more fully than I ever have before.
I believe that God has given me some insights to help us un-
derstand the times we are living in. Since 1965 our denomi-
nation has lost more than half our membership. We lost
Those of you who have come to know me over the last 11
69,381 members in 2008, at which rate we will have zero
years that I have been a member of this presbytery will know
members by the year 2042. Amidst all the social upheaval
that I have no shortage of critiques of our denomination. I
of the 1960s, many are not aware that the Immigration Act
quarrel with this church everyday. I quarrel with our inflexi-
Volume Four, Issue Four Page 5

Moderator, continued
of 1965 unleashed a torrent of emigration from non-Western Some of us in this world never bought into modernity as our
countries. The US Census estimates that whites will be a reigning plausibility paradigm, and so we are neither mod-
minority by 2042. Are you mak- ern nor post-modern. We
ing the connection? While the certainly are not pre-
liberals blame the closed- modern, as if we did not
mindedness and homophobia of understand modernity. We
conservatives for our decline, are what I would describe
and the conservatives blame the as non-modern peo-
lack of commitment to biblical ple. Church of All Nations,
orthodoxy of the liberals, both the congregation I have the
seem to miss the massive demo- great privilege of serving, is
graphic shifts that really is the the convergence of the post-
critical reason for our de- modern and the non-modern
cline. Let us remember that sister hermeneutic coming to-
Reformed denominations, the gether to live out the time-
liberal United Church of Christ less faith in Jesus Christ un-
and the conservative Christian der the timeless authority of
Reformed Church both have been the Bible in order to inter-
declining in membership for dec- pret the times we live in and
ades. “Since 1965 our denomination to participate in the wild
has lost more than half our and unpredictable move-
ment of the Holy Spirit in
The basic problem is that we
membership. We lost 69,381 our midst. I am not saying
remain a Euro-centric, white, members in 2008, at which rate that any particular frame-
middle class church wedded to a
way of doing faith that is deeply
we will have zero members by work is superior to the oth-
ers. I am making a case
dependent on Enlightenment Ra- the year 2042. Amidst all the against epistemological
tionalism, whether they be liberal social upheaval of the 1960s, parochialism, or put another
or conservative churches. Yes, way, the insistence that we
we’ve declined since 1965, but many are not aware that the Presbyterians be locked into
are we aware that hardly any Immigration Act of 1965 speaking in only the lan-
denomination grew as much as guage of modernity. When
the Presbyterian Church from unleashed a torrent of emigra- Presbyterians speak today,
colonial days right up to tion from non-Western coun- the world hears English but
1965? As a strongly rational
church (Calvin was a Renais-
tries. The US Census estimates in the King James version
so-to-speak, and they tune
sance man and a lawyer, after that whites will be a minority by out.
all) that rode the wave of Ameri-
can rationalism that includes
2042. Are you making the con-
within its framework American nection?” And so I stand for modera-
ideas of democracy, pragmatism, tor to raise some critical
progressivism, and individualism, -Jin S. Kim questions for our whole
no religious disposition matched church to wrestle with. In a
this modern spirit more than Cal- post-modern, post-  
vinist Presbyterianism. But since the 1960s the US has be- ideological, post-denominational, multicultural age often
come a post-modern nation in which the rational is only one marked by up rootedness and loss of meaning, how do we
 
of many competing paradigms for interpreting our God, our- “do church” in a way that testifies to the reconciling gospel
selves, and the world around us. of Jesus Christ? In an individualistic culture that tends toward
alienation and isolation, how do we lead our congregations,
ministries and presbyteries to become high-risk, low-anxiety
Page 6 EMerge: Monthly

Moderator, continued
places, to lead God’s people to confess who they are, to experience healing in intimate community, and to be a witness to
the liberating power of the Spirit?

This is an age that requires a new conceptualizing of leadership. How can churches be re-oriented from institutional man-
agement to the kind of leadership that is daring, imaginative, prophetic, countercultural, yet peace-full? In a time when many
of the historic mainline churches find themselves on the brink, how might we reinterpret this de-centering as a gift and an
opportunity for transformation? Is it possible to lead our local congregations and presbyteries into an embodiment of both
radical diversity and deep intimacy that counters the homogenizing and commoditizing impulses of the dominant culture?

I want to invite the whole Presbyterian family to engage these difficult questions out of my unique experience of leading a
vital mainline congregation representing more than 25 nations, cultures, languages, generations and denominational back-
grounds where everyone is a “minority.” I thank you for your confidence in me, which your endorsement signified. I also
welcome your suggestions and critique, as long as it’s a lover’s quarrel.
Jin S. Kim, Moderator of PTCA and Pastor of Church of All Nations

Clergy Encouraged to Attend Sexual Misconduct Prevention Training

The Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area will host a Level and clergy, and any other persons engaged in
One Boundaries Training Event on Thursday, April 22 at any form of ministry in or on behalf of the
Trinity Presbyterian church.
Church in Woodbury
You must sign-up for the event
from 8:30am to 3pm.
online before the close of busi-
Lunch will be provided
ness on Tuesday, April 20. To
and the cost for the
register please go to http://
event is $50 which will
presbyterytwincities.org/
cover materials and
aimsignup/.
lunch.
This training is pre-
sented two times a
year, April and Oc-
tober, by Advocates
for Integrity in Min-
istry (AIM). All
clergy are required to take the training. New
incoming pastors have a year from their recep-
tion to fulfill the requirement. Churches are en-
couraged to send elders, deacons, all staff, lay
Page 7 EMerge: Monthly

Highlights from March Presbytery Meeting

By Nancy Grittman shall become effective upon receipt. In accordance with
Editor’s Note: The following article are the highlights of the G-6.0703, the appropriate actions have been taken to
Stated Meeting held March 13, 2010 at North Como Pres- remove the Jane Harper’s name from the roll.
byterian Church in Roseville, MN. Excerpted by the Editor
are the minutes of Stated Clerk, Nancy Grittman. A complete Executive Presbyter: Rev. Chaz Ruark
report will be made available at the PTCA website:
Chaz reported on the grand opening worship of Chain of
www.ptcaweb.org.
Lakes Presbyterian Church, the 50th anniversary of Presbyte-
rian Church of The Way, Shoreview, and the first full wor-
REPORTS OF OFFICERS: ship service at Stadium Village Presbyterian Church following
Stated Clerk: Nancy Grittman the flood of their building. In 2009, 26 of our congregations
reported growth, with a net growth for our Presbytery of
• The Administrative Commission appointed to ordain around 200 members. In response to the earthquake in
Jonathan Cornell, candidate, to the office of Minister of Haiti, PTCA congregations and members have raised over
Word and Sacrament, completed its work on Sunday, $39,000 for Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, and have
January 10, 2010, and needs to be dismissed with given $79,837 total to relief for Haiti (as of March 13,
thanks. The members are: 2010). Chaz explained the
The Rev. David Lenz, The process that has been planned
Rev. Kara Root, The Rev. for strategic planning, includ-
Neil Craigan, Elder Lucy ing the committee that has
Mungai, Elder Norm agreed to serve.
Scott, Elder Kirsten Berry.
The chair of the commis-
sion is Vice Moderator After acknowledging the diffi-
Vince Gin. culties of the January meeting,
and the sense of incomplete
information, Chaz (with the
• The Administrative Com- approval of Council) invited
mission appointed to or- The Rev. Jin Kim to explain to
dain and install Donald Executive Presbytery Chaz Ruark and Rev. Janet Presbytery his motives for seek-
Hanna, candidate, to the Ruark applaud during the March 2010 Presbytery
Meeting. ing election as Moderator of
office of Minister of Word General Assembly. Jin was
and Sacrament, and to endorsed to stand as Modera-
install him as associate pastor at St. Luke Presbyterian tor at the January meeting following the election of GA com-
Church, Wayzata, MN, completed its work on January missioners.
24, 2010, and needs to be dismissed with thanks. The
members are The Rev. Gary Elg, The Rev. Scott Staple-
ton, The Rev. Gwin Pratt, Elder Laurie Ramirez, Elder Moderator: The Rev. Jin S. Kim
Vincent Thomas, Elder Hannah Roth, Elder Betty Beck. Jin spoke in the capacity as a candidate for Moderator of
The chair of the commission is Moderator Jin S. Kim. General assembly.

• Since the last meeting of Presbytery, The Rev. Dan John- Treasurer: James Payne
son (Honorably Retired) has resigned as a member of Jim announced that the financial reports are available online.
the Commissioned Lay Pastor committee. The preceding year, 2009, ended with a substantial surplus.
Work is being started to do the financial review.
• The Rev. Jane Harper, on the annual non-parish clergy
report form, stated she was renouncing her ordination Council Chair: Chaz Ruark for Elder JoAnn Simser
as minister of word and sacrament. In accordance with
The Presbytery Council met on January 28, 2010, and Febru-
G-6.0700, when an officer of the church informs the
ary 25, 2010, meeting both times at Presbyterian Homes
stated clerk of the governing body of membership that
Eagle Crest, Roseville. Council will resume its practice of
she/he wishes to renounce jurisdiction, the renunciation
meeting in churches in April, and will welcome invitations.
Page 8 EMerge: Monthly

Highlights, continued
The intent is to have an opportunity to visit churches that do Church, Bloomington, MN
not have the ability to entertain Presbytery, due to size of • Contract for Full-time Interim Pastor, the Rever-
facility, or distance away from the center of the Twin Cities end Jong Hyeong Lee- Korean Presbyterian
Area. Church of Minnesota, Brooklyn Center, MN
• Moderator Appointed (Rev. David Stewart) ;
In January, Council voted to authorize Chaz to negotiate with First Presbyterian Church, Stillwater, MN
“Best Year Ever”, a consulting firm, to help Council form a
• Transfer of Ecclesiastical Membership from Pres-
strategic plan for the mission and direction of the Presbytery
bytery of Lake Michigan: Reverend Helen Jo
for the next several years. The proposed cost will be
Taliaferro
$8,000, and the time frame will be three to six months for the
work to be done. The consultant will work with a representa- • Transfer of Ecclesiastical Membership from the
tive committee appointed by Council. The report will be pre- Presbytery of Riverside: The Reverend Harry
sented to the Presbytery for approval. Kenneth McCullen
• Terms of Call for the Reverend Thomas J. Par-
Council also voted to approve the lette as Pastor- First
position description for treasurer, Presbyterian
after some amendments were ap- Church, Rochester,
proved. Minnesota
• Interim Pastor
Contract: Rev.
In February, Council continued work
Richard Townsend-
to endorse a list of names of persons
Anderson- Presby-
to be asked to serve on the task
terian Church of
force to work with the consultant.
the Master, Coon
The names of those persons who
Rapids, MN
have agreed to serve on the task
force are:
The Presbytery
Rev. Mark Lomax, pastor of First Afrikan Presbyterian
Church in Lithonia, Georgia gave the sermon for Stated entered into a time
• Ministers: Paul Moore, Andrew
of worship, led by
Meeting along the theme of the meeting, “The Promo-
Lindahl, Jin Kim, Phil Gebben- tion of Social Righteousness.” The Rev. Mark
Green, Julia Carlson, Kara Root
Lomax, First Afri-
• Elders: Carol Anderson, Jo can Presbyterian
Ringgenberg, Phil Park, Jerry Ganfield, Ward Sessing Church, Lithonia, Georgia. The Rev. Lomax preached on the
• Staff:Chaz Ruark fifth great end of the church, the Promotion of Social Right-
eousness. The Rev. David Maghakian and The Rev. Alika
• Consultant:Karen Morey
Galloway officiated at the Celebration of the Lord’s Supper.

COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY The Necrology Report, in celebration of the resurrection in

memory of those elders, deacons and ministers who passed
The Presbytery voted in the affirmative on the following is- into life eternal during the past year, was read by The Rev.
sues: Jin S. Kim and Elder Vince Gin.
• Reappointment of Harry Maghakian as Stated COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY
Supply Pastor- Andrew Riverside Presbyterian • Sara Berry, who is on the roll of Inquirers of the
Church, Minneapolis, MN Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area, having satis-
• Dissolution of Associate Pastoral Relationship factorily demonstrated adequate promise for min-
with Rev. Andries Coetzee and Transfer of Ec- istry by presenting the statements specified in the
clesiastical Membership to the Presbytery of Presbytery’s policy (G-14.0402), met with the
Muskingum Valley—Oak Grove Presbyterian session of Hope Presbyterian Church, Richfield,
and with the Presbytery's Committee on Prepara-
Page 9 EMerge: Monthly

Highlights, continued
tion for Ministry, is presented to the Presbytery to
be examined “with respect to her Christian faith, The committee recommended that Anna
forms of Christian service undertaken and motives Kendig be enrolled as a candidate for the Min-
for seeking the ministry,” and to be received as a istry of the Word and Sacrament and that the
candidate for the ministry of the Word and Sacra- moderator ask her the questions specified in the
ment Presbytery’s polity.
The committee recommended that Sara Berry
be enrolled as a candidate for the Ministry of
Presbytery VOTED TO ENROLL Anna Kendig
the Word and Sacrament and that the modera-
as a candidate.
tor ask her the questions specified in the Presby-
tery’s polity.
Presbytery VOTED TO ENROLL Sara Berry Vice Moderator Vince Gin asked the new candidates the
as a candidate. questions from the Presbytery polity, and they were received
with prayer.
• Risley Prakasim, who is on the roll of Inquirers of
the Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area, having
satisfactorily demonstrated adequate promise for BILLS AND OVERTURES
ministry by presenting the statements specified in The committee recommended approval of these
the Presbytery’s policy (G-14.0402), met with the items.
session of Church of All Nations Presbyterian
The committee votes on the following overtures were
Church, Columbia Heights, and with the Presby-
unanimous to RECOMMEND that the Presbytery
tery's Committee on Preparation for Ministry, is
concur with the following overtures. (Note: these do
presented to the Presbytery to be examined “with
no yet have GA-assigned numbers) The vote on
respect to his Christian faith, forms of Christian
each was 6/0/0
service undertaken and motives for seeking the
ministry,” and to be received as a candidate for
the ministry of the Word and Sacrament. Overture 008. On Partnering for Peace in Sudan—
From the Presbytery of Trinity.
The committee recommended that Risley
Prakasim be enrolled as a candidate for the Overture 013 On Strengthening the Peacemaking
Ministry of the Word and Sacrament and that Program—From the Presbytery of Pittsburgh
the moderator ask him the questions specified
in the Presbytery’s polity.
The Presbytery VOTED TO CONCUR with both overtures.
The closing hymn, “Go With Us Lord” was sung. The Rev. Jin
Presbytery VOTED TO ENROLL Risley Prakasim as S. Kim pronounced the benediction.
a candidate.

The next meeting of the Presbytery of The Twin Cities Area will
• Anna Kendig, who is on the roll of Inquirers of the be May 11, 2010 at 4:00 p.m.at Hope Presbyterian Church,
Presbytery of the Twin Cities Area, having satisfac- Richfield, Minnesota.
torily demonstrated adequate promise for ministry
by presenting the statements specified in the Pres-
bytery’s policy (G-14.0402), met with the session
of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis,
and with the Presbytery's Committee on Prepara-
tion for Ministry, is presented to the Presbytery to
be examined “with respect to her Christian faith,
forms of Christian service undertaken and motives
for seeking the ministry,” and to be received as a
candidate for the ministry of the Word and Sacra-
ment. (See Attachment C)
Page 10 EMerge: Monthly

The Minister's (Mom's) Dilemma

By Kara Root in my pjs and find the basket waiting for me, could spot
that elusive egg way up on the door frame that nobody
remembers hiding there, and take a week to eat my
This a strange time of year to be a Minister. chocolate bunny, starting with the ear. And sometimes I
think I would love walking in on Good Friday, finding a
It's Monday of Holy Week, and I am trying to get my mind into seat and soaking it in. Then leaving with goose bumps at
Easter mode so I can write THE sermon, but Maundy Thursday and the crash of the Tenebrae darkness, and returning to the
Good Friday are still on the horizon, and I am a huge proponent of bright Alleluia! celebration of the Resurrection two days
intentionally living in each day of Lent and really experiencing the later in my Easter "frock" with a ham in the oven at home
journey. Also, today I bought like a carload of Easter basket crap, and a lily in my hands on the way out the door.
two dozen eggs and some dye, and all the ingredients to make my
famous white chocolate lemon Easter Cake to bring to Aunt Sue's But actually, probably not. I would probably wish I had
for the big get together on Easter afternoon. And I have to make something to do with making it happen. In fact, it's one
sure my daughter has tights for her new Easter dress, and we can of the most enjoyable parts of being both a minister and
find my son's dressy shoes from Christmas (and that they still fit), so a mommy. That I get to create the experiences that they
they can be all adorable for explore, design the encounters that
church and the egg hunt and “Sometimes I wish I open their eyes or hearts, plan the
events that shape their memories or
the family photos. So I guess
being a mom takes as much
was a kid again, and meaning. That I get to set the
thinking ahead, and makes it could wander down- stage and prep the ground for God
equally hard to live deliber- stairs in my pjs and to meet them. It really is an amaz-
ing thing to be part of.
ately on the journey.
find the basket wait-
Lent is certainly easier to ob- ing for me, could spot So God, please prep the ground
and set the stage in me today.
serve than Advent, and it's that elusive egg way up on the Meet me now and reveal the glory
nowhere near the chaos of
Christmas, but there is so
door frame that nobody re- of the Resurrection a little early, if
you wouldn't mind. Grace my
much "stage setting" you do, members hiding there, and own topsy-turvy journey through
so that others can encounter
each moment, that you don't
take a week to eat my choco- these days of Holy Week. Open
my eyes and heart to the power of
really get to meet the moments late bunny, starting with the your hope and the promise of new
yourself. So that they get the ear.” life, even as I seek to live aware of
magical experience/full glory
your suffering and surrendering to
of Easter, you are the one who -Kara Root.
death. Amen.
buys the candy, fills the bas-
kets and hides the eggs /
plans the worship, pays the Kara Root is the pastor of
trumpeter and writes the ser- Lake Nokomis Presbyterian
mon. And there are a lot of Church in Minneapolis.
expectations and pre/mis
conceptions that arise around these high holi/holy days, so you do
a lot of explaining to little and big people alike about what the tra-
ditions and rituals mean. At the same time there are things you do
every year that mean nothing but you do them anyway, because
somehow they've come to mean something all on their own. Like
the "egg bake" breakfast before worship, or the Easter basket we
hide for the dog (or Easter baskets of any kind, if we're honest
about it). It's your job to make sure they happen. Because things
wouldn't be the same without them.

Sometimes I wish I was a kid again, and could wander downstairs

Page 11 EMerge: Monthly

St. Patrick's Legacy

By Neil Craigan
It's St. Patrick's day today. All over the world people will be celebrating with parades, green beer and Chicago will be dy-
ing the river green as well. But that's hardly the legacy of Patrick.
Patrick's legacy would be better marked in the church than in the pub. Patrick's legacy could be stated as innovative and
creative missionary activity that brought the gospel of
“Patrick's legacy Jesus Christ into the towns and villages of Ireland.
is not green beer As a young man Patrick was taken as a slave to Ireland
and parades, it is after a raiding party attacked the west coast of England
the faithful mis- or Wales. Patrick then tended sheep on Slemish mountain
before he finally escaped and returned home. After re-
sionary activity of turning home he entered the church and became a
the church, taking bishop and sensed God's call to return to Ireland. As he
notes in one of the few writings we have from him…
the gospel to
I saw a man coming, as it were from Ireland. His name
those who have was Victorious, and he carried many letters, and he gave
not yet heard. me one of them. I read the heading: "The Voice of the
Irish". As I began the letter, I imagined in that moment
This is the legacy I want to cele- that I heard the voice of those very people who were
brate and live out in my life.” near the wood of Foclut, which is beside the western
sea—and they cried out, as with one voice: "We appeal
-Neil Craigan. to you, holy servant boy, to come and walk among us.

So he returned to Ireland, most likely with an entourage

of others and began to proclaim Christ to the people.
Establishing small communities outside of towns he would
build relationships and friendships with the tribal leaders,
looking for and developing cultural connection points
with the community. He wasn't looking to civilize and change the culture, he was trying to bring Christ into the culture.
Patrick's legacy would be carried forward by Columba who established the Iona community on a major shipping lane of the
time and Columbanus would venture into Europe and establish several monastic communities.
Patrick's legacy is not green beer and parades, it is the faithful missionary activity of the church, taking the gospel to those
who have not yet heard. This is the legacy I want to celebrate and live out in my life.

Neil Craigan, born and raised in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church in
White Bear Lake. He wrote this for his blog on March 17.
Page 12 EMerge: Monthly

‘Priestly in love, prophetic in speaking truth to power’

By Bethany Furkin, Presbyterian News Service Looking ahead
ARLINGTON, Va. — After about two years without a director, the Speaking about the future of the office’s work, Nelson
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A)’s Washington Office is bringing the said it’s important to reconnect the office with Presbyteri-
Rev. J. Herbert Nelson on board. He starts as director of public wit- ans across the country. By building and mobilizing a
ness May 3. viable base, he insisted, the PC(USA) can assure that
Nelson, pastor of Liberation Community Presbyterian Church in when it speaks, Congress will listen.
Memphis, Tenn., was introduced to a group of Presbyterians during Involving young people is imperative, Nelson said.
Ecumenical Advocacy Days here March 19-22. Young people care about the world and want to make a
Calling the opportunity to serve in the Washington Office “humbling transformative change.
and heartening,” Nelson spoke about the office’s role in the “This is an opportunity that this office can take to make
church’s goal of transformation. connections and also bring young people into a place
Created in 1946, the Washington Office works to advocate for where they can use what they’ve already gained in
public policy that reflects the social witness perspectives and poli- knowledge and interest,” he told the Presbyterian News
cies of the General Assembly. Following the 2007 resignation of its Service in a later interview.
long-time director, the Rev. Elenora Giddings Ivory, the office under-The office must look in venues where young people al-
went a mission study, in which its future priorities and direction ready gather — social network sites, seminaries, mission
were examined. The report was presented to the General Assembly trips and internships, for exam-
Mission Council last September.
“Calvin under- ple — and make connections
between those programs and
The Washington Office works “to not
only push within the confines of society, stood that national and international politi-
but to push within the confines of the connection — cal dynamics, he said. Involv-
ing newer generations is a chal-
Christian church, particularly our own
denomination,” Nelson said.
that the lenge for the entire church, and

He spoke of theological and historical

church was to it’s vital to do ministry with
youth, not just for youth.
reasons for the church’s work in public be the con-
The Washington Office must
policy. When Reformed thinker John
Calvin died, he willed his journals to
science of soci- also build stronger relationships
political leaders — he saw faith as hav- ety...We will do with the General Assembly Mis-
sion Council’s national office in
ing transformative abilities for those in as much as much as we can Louisville, he added. Each of-
power and strongly advocated the en-
gagement of the church in civil society. in Washington to continue fice needs to know what the

“Calvin understood that connection — the tradition of the office … other is doing in order to speak
with a stronger voice.
that the church was to be the con- but even before then, to
Nelson spoke about the many
science of society,” Nelson said. “We
will do as much as much as we can in
continue the tradition of Re- offices in the ministry area of
Washington to continue the tradition of formed faith.” Compassion, Peace and Justice,
the office … but even before then, to which also houses the Wash-
continue the tradition of Reformed -J. Herbert Nelson. ington Office. The ministries of
faith.” the Presbyterian Hunger Pro-
gram, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, Self-Development
Whether or not the church has a role in politics is a “façade of a of People, Mission Responsibility Through Investment and
debate,” he said, using health care reform as an example. The others can and must work together, he said.
church works with sick people, and so if it remains silent on health
care policies, it remains silent on the healing ministry of Jesus. “All of us around that table, we are doing work that is
interconnected,” Nelson said, using the church’s re-
“There is an inseparable connection between the church as a place sponse to Hurricane Katrina as an example. PDA has
of righteousness and justice … and what takes place in the halls of been working on recovery from the hurricane, but the
Congress,” Nelson said. Washington Office could also play a role by learning
what legislation could be passed to advance the rebuild-
Page 13 EMerge: Monthly

Prophetic, continued
ing and what is being done for those displaced by the disas- Nelson’s last Sunday at Liberation Community Presbyterian
ter. Church is Easter, and he wants to remind the congregation,
and all Presbyterians, of the good news of that day.
“How do we begin to look at, recognize these functions?” he
asked, adding that building a broader network is key. There “The power of the gospel is a reminder that behind every
are “ways of working legislation that actually coordinate our Good Friday is an Easter Sunday,” he said. “Better days are
efforts.” here for this denomination and better days are here for us
who choose to be righteous and just.”
Nelson hopes to connect Presbyterians who are doing good
work in their communities and congregations with the na- Although the work will not be easy, it’s done by faith, Nelson
tional offices that can help connect them with others in their said. God stands with us in good times and bad, and al-
fields. though we might not see the answers we want right away,
God won’t fail, he added.
He also hopes that the Washington Office can better commu-
nicate its work with the rest of the church. “You’re going to be hearing from us,” he said. “Be ready to
be faithful, walk together, and let us not be weary.”
Prophetic and priestly
Working for transformation is never easy, Nelson said, add-
ing that there are plenty of challenges ahead.
“We are in a time in which there is intense fear,” he said.
“There is fear of the future and fear of letting go of the past.”
When such fears show themselves, it’s easy to blame some The Rev. Phil Tom, associ-
one — or some office, Nelson said. But it’s important to look
ate for small church and com-
at the prophetic and priestly images in scripture. These im-
munity ministry in the Gen-
ages show an inextricable link between righteousness and
justice. eral Assembly Mission Coun-
cil, has been appointed by
In fact, Nelson said, righteousness and justice come from the President Barack Obama to
same Hebrew word, but are sometimes separated in life: we
serve as director for the Cen-
are righteous on Sundays and see justice as merely an op-
ter for Faith-based and Com-
tion, he said.
munity Initiatives for the De-
Sometimes being prophetic and priestly can seem contradic- partment of Labor. He began
tory, he said, adding that Christians are called to be indig- his new work in Washington,
nant while exhibiting excellent character.
D.C., on April 5.
“How can we be indignant and still be righteous?” he said.
“I will help build partnerships with faith-based and commu-
By helping to create a new reality, one that addresses such nity groups to improve the lives of workers, particularly in
issues as health care, the environment, immigration and fiscal the areas of livable wages and working conditions,” said
responsibility, he said. Tom. “The Presbyterian Church has been supportive of labor
“We’re called by God to address these realities,” Nelson rights for more than 100 years. I look forward to continuing
said. “(We’re called to be) priestly in love and prophetic in the work of bringing about God’s justice and peace in our
speaking truth to power. world.”
“These are not contradictions in terms,” he said, “but expec- Before joining the national staff in 2000, Tom was pastor of
tations for God’s people.” Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis. He also
By building opportunities for those who have been locked out served as associate for urban ministry from 1993-1996.
by society’s flaws, pressing local and global partnerships and
empowering people, there won’t be time to complain about
things like decreasing church membership, Nelson said.
Instead, he insisted, the church will rejoice in God’s work.
Page 14 EMerge: Monthly

Transitions: Notes About PTCA Pastors

• Calvin W. Didier
(4/1/1954 )
• David Van Dyke
(4/1/1994 )
• Elisabeth Marlow
(4/10/2005 )
• George K. Tjaden
(4/19/1944 )
• Eun-hyey G. Park Lok
(4/23/2006 )

April 2010

year.
Comings and Goings
• Mary McNamara, the current
President of United Seminary in
• Ken Ribe will become the Interim New Brighton, MN, will be formally
Minister at the Presbyterian installed as the head of ecumeni-
Church of LeSueur, Minnesota. cal seminary on April 11 at Ply-
His prior call was as an Interim at mouth Congregational Church in
Zion United Church of Christ in Minneapolis. McNamara has been
LeSueur. a minister-member of the PTCA
since May 2009.
• Congratulations are in order for
George Tjaden who will celebrate
66 years of ministry this month.
George was ordained April 19,
1944.

• We note the passing of Patricia

Berg, who died on March 30 in
Northern Minnesota. Patricia was
the pastor of PTCA churches in
Waverly and Winsted. A memorial
service will be held later in the
Page 15 EMerge: Monthly

COGA recommends Portland as site for 2016 GA

By Jerry L. Van Marter , Presbyterian News Ser- said the Rev. Tom Hay, director of operations for the Office
vice of the General Assembly.
LOUISVILLE — The Committee on the Office of the General Other factors in Portland’s favor, Hay added, are the size
Assembly (COGA) is recommending that the 222nd Gen- and modernity of its convention facilities, the vibrancy of its
eral Assembly (2016) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) downtown, proximity of hotels to the convention site and a
be held in Portland, Ore. light rail system that extends as far as the Portland Interna-
tional Airport.
The decision will be made by Future General Assemblies
the upcoming 219th General And Portland — the “Rose City” — will
Assembly, July 3-10 in Minnea- 220th General Assembly be in full bloom at Assembly time, Hay
polis. The 2012 and 2014 June 30 – July 7, 2012 said.
Assemblies will be held in Pitts- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Host: Presbytery of Pittsburgh COGA’s site selection team recom-
burgh and Detroit, respec-
mended Portland over Phoenix, Ariz.
tively.
221st General Assembly The Assembly last met in that city in
The Assembly last met in Port- June 14 – June 21, 2014 1984.
land in 1967. At that Assem- Detroit, Michigan
bly, the former United Presbyte- Host: Presbytery of Detroit
rian Church in the United
States of America adopted the
Confession of 1967 and hold-
ing the 2016 Assembly there “would allow us to celebrate
the 50th anniversary of ‘C-67’ in the place of its origin,”

North Central Iowa adopts overture in support of collegiate ministry

The Presbytery of North Central Iowa has submitted an In addition to calling on the GAMC to re-establish an Of-
overture to the 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian fice of Collegiate Ministries, it also calls on the GAMC to
Church (U.S.A.) that calls on the General Assembly Mission direct the re-established office to “prepare a strategy for
Council to “re-establish mission in higher educa-
an Office of Collegiate tion in concert with mid-
Ministries … as a vital On Reestablishing an Office of Collegiate Ministries as a Vi- dle governing bodies,
and integral part of the tal Part of Ministry and Mission—From the Presbytery of congregations, and,
North Central Iowa.
ministry and mission of where possible, ecu-
the church … ” menical partners, to be
The Presbytery of North Central Iowa overtures the 219th presented to the 220th
Heather Libich, director General Assembly (2010) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
General Assembly.
of child, youth and young to do the following:
adult ministries at First Libich, who has created
Presbyterian Church, Ce- Direct the General Assembly Mission Council to re-establish a Facebook presence
dar Falls, submitted the an Office of Collegiate Ministries in the Presbyterian Church for supporters of the
overture to the presbytery (U.S.A.) as a vital and integral part of the ministry and mis- overture, is seeking
on behalf of a group of sion of the Church and direct that office to prepare a strat- overture concurrence
egy for mission in higher education in concert with middle
collegiate ministry lead- from other presbyteries
governing bodies, congregations, and, where possible, ecu-
ers and chaplains within menical partners, to be presented to the 220th General As- and synods.
the Synod of Lakes and sembly (2012). The complete text of the
Prairies.
overture can be found on Google Docs.
The presbytery voted on the overture at its March 2 meet-
ing.
-Presbyterian Neighbor News
Page 16 EMerge: Monthly

Immigration Issues – The Work Continues

By Ann Rock and Joan Nichols ACT which would give children of immigrant parents
important new opportunities following graduation from
Editor’s Note: The following appeared in the Spring 2010 edition of
high school. The PC (USA) Immigration website listed
PW Connection, the newsletter for Presbyterian Women in the
above has a helpful article about this that can be
PTCA.
downloaded. The National Immigration Law Cen-
Presbyterian Women and our wider church (PC-USA) have encour- ter (www.nilc.org) also has up-to-date information.
aged us to become informed about the complex issues surrounding
the subject of immigration. We have taken that challenge seri-
ously—focusing on this issue at our presbytery-wide PW Gathering Recently St. Luke Presbyterian Church in Way-
in October 2009. We encourage individuals and congre- zata, MN, hosted a Community Forum which brought
gations to keep the is- together faith and
sues alive and to keep Presbyterian Women Host community leaders
learning about them so that to explore and
our discussions are based on Spring Gathering 2010 discuss immigra-
facts and not just emotions. tion reform and
rights from the
perspective of our
A good place to start to The Presbyterian Women of the Pres- faith traditions.
gather facts is on our own bytery of the Twin Cities Area will
denomination’s website, hold their Spring Gathering on Satur-
www.pcusa.org/ day, April 24 at Macalester- If you and your
immigration. There you will Plymouth Church in St. Paul from church are in-
find helpful facts about refu- 8:45am-3pm. The theme for this volved in educa-
gee status, detention of un- years gathering is “Joined and Knitted Together with Love.” tional or action-
documented persons, the Special speakers include Elder Kate Olson of Sioux Falls, SD oriented activities
effect of detention on chil- and Heidi Vardeman, pastor of Macalester-Plymouth Church. related to immigra-
dren, avenues for advocacy Registration is $15/person and due by April 15. To register, tion, we would like
and much more. For more download the registration form at http:// to hear about them
local (MN) information, presbyterytwincities.org. Macalester-Plymouth Church is lo- so they can be
check out cated at 1658 Lincoln Avenue, St. Paul. shared with others.
There will be
an opportunity
at our Spring
Gathering to
share concerns
www.immigrationlawcentermn.org. Links to other websites will lead
and discuss action taken by your congregation
you to the location of detention centers
and/or community.
(www.detentionwatchnetwork.org), and our present complex immi-
gration laws (www.ilrc.org - the Immigrant Legal Resource Center).
Active concern about the U.S./Mexican border crossings can be
Ann Rock is a member of First Presbyterian in Stillwater
found at www.nomoredeaths.org, and in the Sept/Oct 2008 PW
and Joan Nichols is a member of Trinity Presbyterian in
Horizons magazine.
Woodbury. Both are members Peace and Justice Com-
mittee for the Presbyterian Women of the PTCA.
Julia Thorne, an immigration lawyer and a pastor, who
is the manager of immigration issues for the PC (USA) in our na-
tional office, will be a speaker and conduct a workshop on this sub-
ject at the PW Synod Gathering in Storm Lake, IA, this summer.
She has a wealth of experience and information on this subject.
Presbyterian Women at Community Presbyterian Church
in Rochester, among others, are voicing their concerns to their
representatives in congress and urging them to pass the DREAM
Page 17 EMerge: Monthly

Presbybriefs
Presbyterian Women at North Presbyterian Meet: Every- • Tons of plastic bottles go to landfills and are not biode-
one, young, middle age or old and female or male, is cordially gradable
invited to the Presbyterian Women Spring Event on Saturday, April
• Most tap water is closely monitored to meet high health
17 from 9 – 11:30 a.m. in the Meisenheimer Hall at North Presby-
and safety standards, yet bottled water is not closely
terian Church in North St. Paul.
monitored
The speaker will be Pastor John Ackerman, honorably retired. Pas-
• The cost to buy bottled water adds up quickly; this
tor John served churches for over forty years. Now, he is a spiri-
money could go to greater needs
tual adviser for clergy and lay persons. The title of his presenta-
tion, which will also include small group interactions, is “Staying in • The profit for companies producing bottled water is
Touch with God”. He wrote that “Staying in Touch” means to greater than that of the pharmaceutical industry (see
choose loving communion with others and the Spirit. It is like our “Nothing is Sacred: The Privatization of Water” in
wish as we leave friends when we say, “Let’s stay in touch.”. You March/April 2005 issue of Horizons on water)
will learn some ways to be in touch with the Spirit in yourself and
• The consumption of bottled water encourages privatiza-
others. Why? “Either we change deeply or die slowly. Christ
tion of a basic commodity that may become less accessi-
came to transform us and the world………….the way we do this is
ble to people without the means to purchase it.
to listen to the voice deep within us. We learn this only by experi-
ence and feedback from others.” John does not prescribe a set
program but recommends a process which will look differently in
Wooly Blessings in LeSueur: Wooly Blessings is a gathering
each person. Also, singers from the Kenyan Christian Fellowship,
Women and men from several churches in Le Sueur and Henderson
based in St. Paul affiliated with the PC(USA) will provide the music
area who knit or crochet large, cuddly shawls that are gathered at
for the event.
The Presbyterian Church of LeSueur. The shawl and the person who
Cherokee Park Learns About El Salvador: El Salvador will receive it is prayed for by the Wooly Blessings group . Accord-
the Soil of Courageous Faith is the subject of the Adult Forum ing to the church website, when someone in the community knows
on Sunday, April 18th, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Cherokee Park of a person in need of a tangible reminder of the prayers of Chris-
United Church in St. Paul. Through images, stories and video mem- tian people, they are welcome to take one of the shawls to that
bers of the will hear about the experience of Cherokee Park Pastor person. In addition to the local community, shawls also go to the
Tim Johnson and many others from a United Theological Seminary group, afghans for Afghans (www.afghansforafghans.com) and
sponsored global justice study trip to El Salvador from March 18– Warm Up America (www.warmupamerica.com).
26th. The trip engaged participants in a study of the complex eco-
nomic and military history of El Salvador leading up to the civil war The knitters and crocheters meet on the 3rd Thursday of the month
of 1980-1992. They visited with people who knew and worked at The Presbyterian Church. Others donate items for the various
with Monsignor Oscar Romero: liberation theologians and activists ministries by leaving them at the LeSueur congregation. Once a
who were martyred during those years of great violence. year, the items are packaged and sent to the various ministries for
distribution.
The group also visited representatives of political parties, with peo-
ple involved in economic and cooperative projects that help sustain
Being the Church in Austin: Westminster Presbyterian Church
poor communities, and at the home of Monsignor Romero and the
in Austin will cut their worship service short on May 16 in order to
Central American University where six martyred Jesuit priests
be the church. Beginning on Sunday April 25 the Southern Minne-
taught, worked, and died.
sota congregation will focus on biblical compassion, service and
Synod PW Bans Bottled Water: The Presbyterian Women Christ's heart for those in need through special worship services
Synod Coordinating Team (Synod of Lakes and Prairies) voted at and Wednesday Night Fellowship Meals. On May 16 Westminster
it’s November 2009 meeting to no longer provide plastic water will have a shortened Sunday worship service and put their faith in
bottles for use at PWSCT meetings and encourage carryover to action through service in the community together.
individual daily life. According to the Sower, the Synod PW News-
letter, the decision was made for the following reasons: The congregation will be serving through specific projects, all de-
signed to directly touch lives and reflect Christ's love to others in
• Much bottled water is simply filtered or purified tap wa-
the Austin Area: Habitat for Humanity, Care Gifts for Haiti, Com-
ter
munity Cleanup, etc. Westminster is shooting for 100% participa-
• Producing plastic bottles uses petroleum and energy tion.
Page 18 EMerge: Monthly

Presbybriefs, continued
“Pack Rats” for Jesus: Christ Presbyterian in Edina will spend 24 hours in May to pack meals for Haiti. The “One
Community Event” will take place May 21-22 at the old Mervyns Store at Southdale Mall in Edina. Sponsored by Feed My
Starving Children, the goal is for 5,000 volunteers to pack meals and everyone in the community is invited to take part
with members from Christ. For more information on how to take part, please go to www.fmsc.org/onecommunity.

PTCA Pastor Artist-of-the-Month at First South St. Paul: The Adult Education class at First Presbyterian in South
St. Paul on April 11, 18 and 25 will also be their artist of the month, Deb DeMeester. DeMeester was an interim pastor at
the South Metro Congregation.
During a sabbatical in 2006, DeMeester began to paint for the first time in her life and discovered deep joy in the proc-
ess.
She describes her discovery of painting :
“I was blessed in the Fall of 2006 to receive the gift of a sabbatical. I packed up my books and headed north to
“the lake.” As my soul began the process of restoration, rather than reading, I began to hear “Paint!” On the one
hand, it was a surprise as I’d never painted before or taken a painting class. On the other hand, from previous
experience, I’ve known creativity is one way that I find my way home to wholeness. And so I painted … hours
and days passed and I rediscovered passion and risk taking, joy and contentment. The paintings in this exhibit
represent my first efforts. In most cases I found a picture I liked and I sought to imitate it, learning in the process
about oils, watercolors, and acrylics, how to use brushes and water, and what kind of subjects I most enjoyed. If
nothing else, I hope this exhibit will encourage you to listen to the inner voice/spirit who calls us to take risks so
that we can be renewed, passionate and joyful as we live the abundant lives with which we are blessed.”

Presbytery Seeks New Treasurer

PURPOSE:To fulfill the functions of a treasurer of Presbytery Serves as a member of the Budget Task Force in devel-
as set forth in this position description, a financial officer oping draft budgets for Presbytery’s consideration.
under the Minnesota Nonprofit Act(Minn. Stat. Chap.
Attends the following meetings: Board of Trustees, Pres-
317A), the bylaws of the Presbytery of the Twin Cities area,
bytery Council, Presbytery, and officers meetings.
and such other specific responsibilities as assigned by the
Additionally, the Treasurer may choose to attend
Presbytery Council. The Treasurer is an officer of the Presby-
the annual Fiscal Officers training offered by Gen-
tery and is elected by the Presbytery. This position requires a
eral Assembly. (Traditionally scholarships have
commitment of about five hours per week.
been available through the Synod for this event.)
ACCOUNTABILITY:The Treasurer is accountable to the
RELATIONSHIPS:The Treasurer operates as a member of
Presbytery through the Presbytery Council.
a team with members of the staff and the Budget Task Force
RESPONSIBITIES: and is a voting member of the Council and the Presbytery.
The Treasurer serves as a resource to the Council, the Pres-
Serves as one of the primary authorized signer on Pres-
bytery, and the Board of Trustees.
bytery bank accounts.
OTHER:The Treasurer must be computer literate and famil-
Comprehends the bookkeeping methods and proce-
iar with accounting software. The Treasurer is able to pro-
dures of the bookkeeping services and maintains
vide financial analysis based on historic trends. The Treas-
good communications with the director of those
urer must be an Elder or Minister of Word and Sacrament.
services.
This position is for a three-year term and it is renewable. An
Reviews monthly financial reports and interprets them to annual stipend of $1500 is paid plus an allowance for
the Board of Trustees, the Council and the Presby- documented mileage expenses.
tery.
Interested persons are requested to send a Resume, includ-
Assists in preparation of the annual financial review. ing the name of the church where you are a member, to the
Nominating Committee at nominations@ptcaweb.org.
Recommends investment vehicles to the Board of Trus-
tees that are compatible with THE INVESTMENT
OF CASH ASSETS AND SPENDING POLICY.
Page 19 EMerge: Monthly

Pre-Presbytery Event at May Stated Meeting

Pre Presbytery Meeting cur in high incidence among veterans and

many veterans become homeless and/or
May 11th 2:15 PM at Hope Presbyte-
involved with the criminal justice system.
rian Church
The presentation will review how veterans
have fared after past wars, and explore what
How Churches Can Accompany Re-
is impacting our veterans today. Presenter,
turning Veterans and their Families
Amy Blumenshine, delivers a "call to action"
How churches can help with the heal-
to churches to play their special role in the all-
ing of our veterans from their moral important transition period home after
and spiritual injuries. war. Any individual sent to war by their na-
tion should not have to bear alone the result-
Hardly a day goes by without more bad ing moral and spiritual pain. Her work in the
news about how our veterans are faring. In “Coming Home Collaborative” makes specific
some recent months, more active duty military recommendations regarding how congrega-
kill themselves than were killed by enemy tions, the "beloved community," can make a
action. Over 6000 veterans committed sui- difference.
cide last year. The Pentagon reported that
half of the National Guard members show
significant psychological problems months after their return from Don’t miss this valuable opportunity for learning on this topic.
the current war zones. Binge drinking and clinical depression oc- Sponsored by the Disability Concerns Task Force.

Mac-Plymouth Hymn Writing Winner

The Rev. John A. Dalles, pastor of Wekiva Presbyterian Church God, bless the work your people do throughout each working day,
in Longwood, FL, has been named winner of the 14th annual hymn- The contributions that they make, the talents they display.
writing contest sponsored by Macalester Plymouth United Church of God, bless the work your people do, with minds and hands and
St. Paul, Minn. hearts,
This year’s contest — for a hymn to be sung Labor Day weekend — To benefit the common good, the sciences and arts.
asked for “words that especially address the plight of the unem-
ployed. Traditionally, we have celebrated work on Labor Day. But For all who have no respite, God, from labor without ease,
what if one does not have work of is under-employed? Denied the For those for whom their work is filled with danger or disease.
opportunity to earn a living, an unemployed worker often questions For all who labor without gain; or have no rest this day;
his or her value and worth. We hope to explore the role of the For all who labor without hope, O God, we humbly pray;
church in addressing these issues."
We pray for those who cannot work, or seek for work in vain,
Dalles, who has been pastor at Wekiva Church since 1997, enti- Great God, we pray your mercy shall encourage them, again!
tled his hymn “God Bless the Work Your People Do.” A life mem- We pray for those whose work is hard, on body, spirit, soul,
ber of The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada, his The underpaid, under-employed, who fill a vital role.
hymn texts have been published in a number of denominational
hymnals, including the 1990 Presbyterian Hymnal (PCUSA) and the Grant unto each a day designed for worship, joy and rest;
New Century Hymnal (UCC). His two hymns in the PC(USA) hym- A Sabbath time of holiness, in which they may be blessed.
nal are “Come, O Spirit!” (#127) and “God Bless Your Church As you achieved creation’s work, then rested from your task,
with Strength” (#418). God bless the work your people do, and call it good, we ask!
His winning hymn:
God, Bless The Work Your People Do -Presbyterian News Service
Suggested Tunes: FOREST GREEN or ELLACOMBE
Page 20 EMerge: Monthly

Positions Available

Non‐Ordained Positions 
For more information on the positions listed below, please go the PTCA website at http://www.ptcaweb.org.

• Administrative Assistant, Randolph Heights Presbyterian, St. Paul

• Organist, Presbyterian Church of the Way, Shoreview

• Accompanist, Chain of Lakes Presbyterian, Lino Lakes

Do you have a church staff position that needs to be filled? Send in your job announcements to Dennis Sanders
at communications@ptcaweb.org. (Oh, and let us know when you fill the position, so we can remove it from the
job listings.)

Interim Openings and Vacant Pulpits 
The following PTCA Congregations are have vacant pulpits according to the Committee on Ministry or are seek-
ing interim pastors:
• Interim Associate Pastor, Oak Grove Presbyterian, Bloomington
• Interim Pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Stillwater
If you are interested in any of the interim positions, you can find out more by going to
www.presbyterytwincities.org/jobs or by contacting the Committee on Ministry at com@ptcaweb.org.
To find out about the status of these congregations, please contact the Committee on Ministry at
com@ptcaweb.org.

The Presbytery needs your

help ! !
-The Annual Meeting of the PTCA will be on May
12, 2010.
-There are a number of positions to be filled on
our committees.

Would you recommend someone? What about yourself?

The Nominating Committee of the Presbytery is looking for people to serve on vari-
ous committees of the PTCA. To find out how you or someone you know can heed the
call, go the Presbytery website, www.ptcaweb.org.
Page 21 EMerge: Monthly

Events Calendar
Job Support Group at Lake Nokomis: The ard Bliese, president of Luther Seminary; Rabbi
South Minneapolis Job Networking Group meets at Marcia Zimmerman, Temple Israel; Rev. Karen
Lake Nokomis Presbyterian on Fridays at 9am for Smith Sellers, Conference Minister of the Minnesota
support, resources and networking. For more infor- Conference of the United Church of Christ; and Dr.
mation, please contact the congregation at (612) Wilson Yates, president emeritus of United Theo-
721-4463. logical Seminary. Ms. Sharon Ryan, chair of
United's board of trustees, will preside.

Mission Gift Project: Every year PCUSA General

Rev. McNamara comes to United from Union Theo-
Assembly attendees from across the country are
logical Seminary where she served for 10 years as
asked to bring a gift in their suitcase that will bene-
executive vice president. Prior to coming to Union,
fit a mission in the host presbytery(s). This year
she served as the non-profit economic development
Presbyterian Women from the three hosting presby-
director in the Koch and Dinkins administrations
teries of the 219th General Assembly - Presbytery of
and then as president of the Interchurch Center be-
Do you have an the Twin Cities, Presbytery of Northern Waters and
ginning in 1990. She serves as treasurer of the
Presbytery of Minnesota Valleys - are coordinating
event you’d like Association of Theological Schools and recently
this important Gift Project. When GA attendees
joined the board of Collegeville Institute. Raised in
to publicize? arrive in Minneapolis in July, it is requested that
Cambridge, Minn., she is a graduate of Carleton
they bring new socks and underwear to be distrib-
Please send it to College and Harvard Divinity School. She is a min-
uted to men, women and children living in shelters.
ister in the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Dennis Sanders at These gift items were chosen because of the continu-
ing incidence of homelessness across Minnesota
communications@ and because the items are easy to pack in a suit-
Help Meet Refugee’s Basic Needs : You can
ptcaweb.org. case. More information on the shelters designated
help abundantly support a refugee to move quickly
to receive items collected will be available in the
from meeting basic needs to achieving dreams. It
near future. For more information or to get in-
begins with material donations for our newest arri-
volved, contact Ann Rock at acrock1@juno.com or
vals. Refugee Services is currently in need of gently
Sylvia Swede at sylviaswede@aol.com .
used pots and pans, silverware, and dishes
(especially bowls) as well as linens, pillows, towels,
alarm clocks, light bulbs and can openers. For
New Art Exhibit at Lake Nokomis: On Fri-
more information contact Dan Huynh , Minnesota
day, April 9, from 7-9 p.m., ArtSpace@LNPC wel-
Council of Churches at (612) 230-3227.
comes a new exhibit by local collagist Josie
Lewis. Come join in the celebration! Lake Nokomis
is located at 1620 E. 46th Street in Minneapolis.
Live in a More Abundant, Cleaner Environ-
ment : Tuesday, April 13,12pm – 1pm, MN
Church Center, Assembly Room 2, 122 W Franklin
United Seminary Install PTCA Minister as
Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
New President: On Sunday, April 11, The Rever-
end Mary McNamara will be installed as the sev- Come learn how you can help your congregation
enth president of United Theological Seminary of and family live in a more abundant, cleaner envi-
the Twin Cities in a festive service that begins at ronment this Easter season. This event will provide
3:00pm at Plymouth Congregational Church, Min- information and resources on consumer products,
neapolis. Speakers include Rev. Daniel Aleshire, toxic chemicals and safer alternatives. RSVP by
executive director of the Association of Theological contacting Jerad Morey, j.morey@mnchurches.org,
Schools in the United States and Canada; Dr. Jo- and hurry—seating is limited! Sponsored by the
seph C. Hough, Jr., president emeritus of Union National Council of Churches and the Minnesota
Theological Seminary; Rev. Dr. Peg Chemberlin, Council of Churches.
executive director of the Minnesota Council of
A Common Word: Love in Christianity and
Churches and president of the National Council of
Islam—Thursday, April 15, 2010,
Churches; Dr. Gary Reierson, president of the
7:30pm to 9pm, John Roach Center Audito-
Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches; Dr. Rich-
Page 22 EMerge: Monthly

Events Calendar
  rium, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul Campus Why Gender Matters: Minister Member R.
Alan James, the Director of the Institute of Theo-
A Common Word is a Muslim declaration, signed by logical and Interdisciplinary Studies, welcomes
  hundreds of Muslim scholars, clerics, and intellectuals all to attend a conference sponsored by the Insti-
worldwide, which emphasizes the commonality of love tute entitled: "Why Gender Matters" April 16-18.
  in Islam and Christianity. A panel featuring Dr. Jamal The event is designed "to promote the under-
Badawi, Zafar Siddiqui, Dr. Terence Nichols, and
Office Hours @ Minnesota Council of Churches’ Gail Anderson will
standing of the differences in the ways boys and
girls learn, and to consider how those considera-
the Presbytery discuss this declaration’s implication for Muslim Chris- tion can be incorporated in our homes and
Office tian relations. schools."
Clearwater 2010: The Rev. Byron Wade, vice- For more information, you can contact R. Alan
moderator of the 218th General Assembly of the Pres- James at 651-430-0361, or you can visit the
byterian Church (U.S.A.), and the Rev. Carol Howard Institute's website.
Merritt, a minister in her 30s and author of "Tribal
Church: Ministering to the Missing Generation," are
both leaders of this spring's Clearwater 2010, Volunteers Needed for Special Rebuild-
"Finding Our Way in the Wilderness," Friday through ing Weeks in Iowa: Nearly two years after
Sunday, April 16-18, at Presbyterian Clearwater For- flooding devastated much of eastern Iowa, re-
est, Deerwood, Minnesota. Additional details are building continues in cities and towns around the
available in the brochure, which is available at the area. Your help is needed. This spring, PDA will
Synod website, www.lakesandprairies.org. participate with Church World Service (CWS) in
Monday-Friday:
hosting a six-week ecumenical work project in
8:30am-4:30pm Cedar Rapids, working with local organizations
Job Skills Workshop at North Como: Looking to help at least 10 families return home. Project
to brush up on your job hunting skills? North Como dates are weekly from April 11 through May
Presbyterian Church is hosting a Job Transition 22. Let’s show the world how people of faith,
workshop sponsored by Thrivent Financial for Luther- working side-by-side, can make great things hap-
ans on April 20 from 6-8PM. You will learn how to pen for our neighbors in need. Join the effort!
network better, how to interview and get the job, and For questions, call Sarah Dyck at 319 321-4165
how to manage your finances during the job transi- or contact by email, sdyck@peia.org This e-mail
tion. The workshop is free, but attendees are ask to address is being protected from spambots. You
  RSVP by contacting the church at 651-488-5581 or by need JavaScript enabled to view it . To register
emailing pastor Dave Maghakian at your volunteer team, contact the PDA Call Center
  davidm@northcomochurch.org. at 866 732-6121, or register your interest
online, http://www.pcusa.org/pda/register/
Per Capita team.jsp.
Mental Health Events at Trinity:
for 2010:
The following events take place at Trinity Presbyterian
General Assembly: Church, 2125 Tower Drive, Woodbury, (651)738- Didier Seminar at House of Hope: April
$6.15 0045. 23-25 at House of Hope Presbyterian Church.
The theme for this year’s seminar is “Meditation
Synod: $4.80 and Visionary Seeing in the Christian Tradition”

Presbytery: $19.06 Lower Your Risk Factors For Developing Alz- and the speaker will be Cynthia Bourgeault.
heimer's (April 26): Scientific evidence shows us Bourgeaultwill lead in an exploration of the core
Total= how to improve the way our brains work to potentially concepts of our Christian mystical heritage and
decrease the risk. Participants will learn how the brain their relevance for contemplative spiritual prac-
$30.01 works and changes with age; how the heart and brain tice. Topics will include mysticism and visionary
are connected; and how social connections and emo- seeing, the human vocation, the invisible in the
tional health affect your brain. visible, the Trinity, the practice of prayer, and the
heart’s own language.
Page 23 EMerge: Monthly

Events Calendar, Continued

Following the lecture sessions, she will lead a par- Trinity: A time of prayer, mediation and special
ticipatory session on Centering Prayer. music will take place on Sunday April 25 at 7PM at
Trinity Presbyterian Church. This service is for “All
House of Hope is located at 767 Summit Avenue in
who are grieving the loss of a loved one. . . . . . .
St. Paul.
Next Presbytery Those suffering from physical disease, mental, finan-
All You Can Eat Spiritual Buffet: While other cial, emotional or spiritual distress. . . . . . .
Meeting:
wives were looking for places to hide their new
Come to receive prayers and support; bring friends
husbands' neon beer signs and old bowling tro-
and family.
phies, Methodist playwright Holly Davis had to find
a home for her husband's statues of Hindu gods. Refreshments follow the service. Trinity is located at
Her resulting play, ‘The All You Can Eat Spiri- 2125 Tower Drive in Woodbury.
tual Buffet’, has been hailed by The Minneapolis
Tuesday, May Star Tribune as a “funny, unabashed, unapologeti-
11, 2010 cally honest spiritual quest.”

Hope Holly says, “I wrote Spiritual Buffet in an attempt to "Leading From the Heart:” How do leaders in
Presbyterian explore my own religious bias through the applica- a congregation remain in community with people
tion of a Buddhist concept called Attachment, the through conflict and differences?
Church, view that things must be perceived a certain way,
"Leading from the Heart" a special workshop spon-
Richfield should be ritualized a certain way and should last
sored jointly by Luther Seminary and Lake Nokomis
4:00pm- forever. It is a risky show because nobody seems
Presbyterian Church wants to teach ways to commu-
comfortable laughing about religion and, yes, this
8:00pm is a comedy. Even worse, it’s a musical comedy!
nicate that seek to build rather than tear down the
body of Christ. Led in part by PTCA minister-
But my purpose is not to ridicule faith. My purpose
member Theresa Latini, this intensive workshop
is to gently prod at our Attachment, which in sepa-
teaches the skills and consciousness of compassion-
rating us from each other, also separates us from
ate communication (also called nonviolent communi-
what is divine.”
cation) as a means of connecting to God, self, and
It will be presented at St. Luke Presbyterian Church, others in the midst of interpersonal impasses of all
3121 Groveland School Rd., Wayzata, MN sorts.
 
55391 (in Minnetonka) on Friday, April 23 from
This event takes place June 20-25 at Luther Semi-
  7:00 – 8:00pm. The church will open at 6:30pm
nary and is limited to 45 people. To register or for
with ticket sales ($10 per person) at the door. Join
more information, please go to
us after the performance in the Garden Court to
www.luthersem.edu/leadingfromtheheart.
enjoy ethnic treats and tea.
Concert for Ghana at Church of the Way: Do you have an
The Ghana Mission Committee of Presbyterian article, news or
Church of the Way in Shoreview is proud to host event to share for
the Hayor Bibimma Dance Theatre, Sunday April the May issue of
25 from 3-5pm at the church. Hayor Bibimma will EMerge:Monthly?
engage the crowd in show filled with traditional Please make sure
to get in by the
West African Dance, Music and Storytelling. Ad-
close of business
mission is $10 for adults, $5 for children and $25
on April 29. You
for families. Proceeds will go to Church of the can email it to
Way's mission projects in Ghana, which includes a Dennis Sanders at
water project and a latrine project. For more infor- communications@ptcaweb.org.
mation, please contact the church at 651-484-
3346. Church of the Way is located at 3382 N
Lexington Avenue in Shoreview.
Service of Remembering and Healing at
 "EMerge:Monthly," is a publication from the Presbytery of
the Twin Cities Area (PTCA). The mission is to share brief
highlights with links to resources and news. Recipients in-
112 W. Franklin Ave.
Suite 508 clude congregations, minister members, other members,
Minneapolis, MN 55404 committees, and friends. Please send submissions and e-mail
Fax: 612-871-0698 corrections to Dennis Sanders, editor, at communica-
E-mail: communications@ptcaweb.org
Web: www.ptcaweb.org tions@ptcaweb.org . Usual distribution: Thursdays.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ptcaweb
Facebook: www.facebook.com/
presbyterytwincitiesarea

Presbytery Staff
Chaz Ruark, Executive Presbyter: ep@ptcaweb.org
Nancy Grittman, Stated Clerk: statedclerk@ptcaweb.org
Risa Anderson, Office Manager: office@ptcaweb.org
Dennis Sanders, IT/Communications Specialist: communications@ptcaweb.org

Register, Volunteer at General Assembly

You've heard about it for weeks and months; the 219th General ple to make sure that the thousands who will attend recieve a warm
Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is meeting this summer Minnesota welcome.
in Minneapolis. With a little over three months until the
If you register to volunteer, you get to observe General Assembly
event, people who are interested in attending the "Great Presbyte-
business without paying the registration.
rian Get-Together" can
now register online for July So, if you have some time to
3-10 event. donate, please consider signing
219th General up at the Committee on Local
Who can register? Well,
Elder and Minister Com- Assembly:Registration Now Arrangements webiste at
www.cola2010.com
missioners have to attend,
but so can visitors! This is
Available! and click on the icon that reads
a chance to meet fellow   "volunteer."
Presbyterians from across
the United States and also
to see the church in ac-
tion. Best of all, it's hap- GA Website:
pening in our own back- www.pcusa.org/ga219/
yard!
To register, go to the Volunteer Website:
219th General Assembly www.cola2010.com
website at
www.pcusa.org/
 
ga219. If you are a com-  
missioner, click on the
button that says
"Commissioner and Advisory Delgates." If you are a visitor, click
on "Observer." Register today!
Have you considered volunteering for General Assembly? In the
run-up to the event and during GA, we will need hundreds of peo-