CORRECTED

PRELIMINARY MINUTES

OF

TRINITY PRESBYTERY

MEETING IN REGULAR SESSION

WITH

ANTIOCH CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

QUITMAN, LA

SEPTMEBER 26-27, 2014

MEMORIALS

Elder Joyce Ann Bellott, Daingerfield CPC

June 8, 1934 – March 8, 2014

Elder Gerald Brelsford, Pine Tree CPC

September 14, 1914 – April 19, 2014

Elder & Clerk Michael Coyne, Austin First CPC

June 26, 2014

Elder Beverly Cuthbertson, Elmira Chapel CPC

July 28, 2014

Elder John Levon Hinton, Sr., Antioch CPC

February 4, 1924 – November 3, 2013

Elder William L. Lockhart, Oak Grove CPC

June 10, 1938 – October 7, 2013

Elder & Trustee Bob Wallace, Elmira Chapel CPC

July 15, 2014

AGENDA

TRINITY PRESBYTERY OF THE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

ANTIOCH CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

QUITMAN, LA

SEPTEMBER 26-27, 2014

GENERAL AGENDA FOR PRESBYTERY

(Times are approximate)

FRIDAY SATURDAY

CALL TO ORDER 1:00 PM 9:00 AM

DEVOTIONAL 1:15 PM

GENERAL BUSINESS 1:30 PM

UNIFICATION TASKFORCE 3:00 PM

RECESS 3:30 PM AS DECLARED BY MODERATOR

READING OF MINUTES 5:30 PM

FRIDAY, September 26, 2014

CALL TO ORDER – Moderator Cantey

CERTIFICATION OF QUORUM – Stated Clerk

CONSTITUTING PRAYER

ADOPTION OF PROGRAM AND AGENDA

DEVOTIONAL - Licentiate John Lawson

APPOINTMENT OF ENGROSSING CLERK/PARLIAMENTARIAN

RECOGNITION OF FIRST TIME DELEGATES AND VISITORS

HEARING OF EXCUSES

WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

SEATING OF VISITING MINISTERS

SEATING OF ADVISORY MINISTERS

HEARING OF DENOMINATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

Jay Earheart Brown, Memphis Theological Seminary

Peter Jeffrey, Bethel University

HEARING OF FRATERNAL REPRESENTATIVES

COMMUNICATIONS

Mission Presbytery PCUSA – Mr. Phil Barnes

Samantha Herman, Marshall CPC – Handout

Ray Santillano

Rev. Nora Gonzalez

SELECTION OF RECIPIENT OF PRESBYTERY OFFERING

APPOINTMENT OF RESOLUTIONS COMMITTEE

REPORTS OF THE COMMISSIONERS TO GENERAL ASSEMBLY – Page 5

REPORTS OF THE YOUTH ADVISORY DELEGATES TO GENERAL ASSEMBLY – Page 9

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION - Page 10

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FINANCE & TRUSTEES – Page 11

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIAL CONCERNS - page 18

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF MISSIONS – page – 19

REPORT #2 OF THE BOARD OF MISSIONS – Page - 20

REPORT OF THE TASKFORCE ON ORDAINED CLERGY - Page 20

REPORT OF THE PRESBYTERY COUNCIL – Page 22

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON PROBATIONERS – Page 24

REPORT OF THE STATED CLERK-TREASURER - Page 25

APPENDIX A – FINANCIALS – page - 25

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS

READING, CORRECTION, APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES

RECESS

CLOSING PRAYER

SATURDAY, September 27, 2014

CALL TO ORDER

DEVOTIONAL

RECOGNITION OF VISITORS NOT IN ATTENDANCE FRIDAY

HEARING OF EXCUSES

RESUME THE BUSINESS OF PRESBYTERY

REPORT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMISSIONER, REVEREND DON NUNN

On Sunday there was a meeting of all commissioners that was to give us an overview of what was before the Assembly this year. This was a helpful event especially for those who have not been for some time or if this was their first time as a commissioner. That evening there was a Praise Gathering that was interesting.

On Monday morning the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America opened their Assembly with the Moderator Rev. Elton Hall bringing a message.

The Assembly opened with the worship service at 2:00 where the Moderator delivered the sermon, “What is Wrong with the Middle – Nothing!” The Assembly heard the nomination for Moderator of General Assembly. Those nominated were the Rev. Paula Louder and the Rev. Lisa Anderson. Rev. Anderson was elected Moderator and Rev. Louder was elected the Vice Moderator. I thought it was interesting that the two nominations were women because we were celebrating 125 years when Rev. Louisa M. Woosley was ordained. I also learned that the first woman ordained in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America was Rev. Alica B. Bishop in 1899.

That evening there was a communion service at the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Roosevelt Baugh, Red River Presbytery, as the Preacher.

On Tuesday morning before the committees met there was a table discussion on the report on the Unification Task Force. Following this, committees met. I was on the committee on Theology and Social Concerns. We met for most of the day.

We recommended that the paper from the Unified Committee on Theology and Social Concerns be approved. There was no recommendation in this report. We dealt with the Unification Task Force. We discussed this paper and felt that it was a good paper for what it was to do in placing a plan before the churches for them to study and respond to this plan by July 1, 2015. We also had before us a resolution from Rev. Sherlyn Frost, which we found some of the Whereas we could not accept. What they wanted us to do we felt we could not.

What we did say was that the committee on Theology and Social Concerns is to study the Scripture references for 3.08 and see if they could resolve this matter more.

The Assembly completed its business by 3:00 on Thursday and closed with the Rev. Jennifer Newell, pastor of Cleveland Cumberland Presbyterian Church bringing the message.

I am thankful to Trinity Presbytery for sending me this year. It was a good Assembly and we will see good things come from this in the meetings of the General Assembly as they meet the challenge of leading two Denominations to becoming one.

One other thing I want to add. In the past several years I have watched the rise of good leadership, preaching and being pastors in this church. I would just like to say that this is among the women in the Church. I must say the Church, under the leadership of our Lord, is in good and dedicated hands.

REPORT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMISSIONER:

REVEREND DOCTOR SAM WAYMAN

Presbyters:

I want to thank Trinity Presbytery for electing me as a Ministerial Commissioner to the 184th General Assembly.

We met in Chattanooga, Tennessee on June 16-20 at the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.

I served as Chair of the Higher Education Committee. We had opportunity to hear Dr. Jay Earheart-Brown from Memphis Theological Seminary. Acute needs of the Seminary include a chapel to enhance Worship Leadership and provide an adequate arena for developing high-quality Preaching; the Buck-Baird Endowment to provide long-term training in Cumberland Presbyterian Government, History and Theology yet lacks one million and two hundred thousand from being fully funded. The need to provide for long term funds through Wills will be lifted up on Seminary Sunday, September 28.

We heard Michael Qualls who oversees the PAS program for alternate ministerial preparation. The Assembly also adopted a recommendation to give PAS students a more uniform standard before certifying them to the Presbytery as ready for ordination.

We heard from Dr. Walter Brown, the new President of Bethel University. The University is engaged in far-reaching and exciting programs of study! The University is dependent on the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for many of its students and much of its support.

Luke House form the Concord Church served on our Higher Education Committee. He was a strong youth delegate. Ladd Daniel from Trinity Presbytery engaged in some very pertinent floor discussion.

I am returning $600 to enable our Presbytery to function more ably. Thanks for this memorable experience.

Yours in Christ, Sam Wayman

REPORT OF GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMISSIONER, ELDER LADD DANIEL,

HOUSTON FIRST

June 21, 2014

Dear Fellow Presbyters,

I was humbled and greatly honored to represent Trinity Presbytery as delegate to the 184th General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, in Chattanooga, TN. The CPC General Assembly met this year in conjunction with the general assembly of our sister denomination, the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America.

The overriding theme of this meeting of General Assembly was “Step out: Called to Share, Sent to Tell”, and celebrated the historical “middle theology” of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. In the opening convocation, retiring Moderator Forrest Prosser cheerfully brought a message to the church that “There is nothing wrong with being in the middle”. This is a message which resonates for me as a middle child, and I believe is important to for the church to hear as churches and communities seem overtly focused on what divides us rather than what ties us together.

Many of the events this week reflected the ongoing effort toward unification of the CPC/CPCA denominations, and it was a great blessing to be a participant in the many joint worship events, led by pastors, youth, and other representatives from both denominations. I rejoice in the progress made on unification as celebrated in worship and work during the week. It is evident that the mechanics of a merger are nearing completion, with lingering concerns (including fears of diminished power and/or representation for CPCA congregations at presbytery and synod levels, and differences in interpretation of theological and practical language in the constitution). Progress is clearly continuing, and with God’s help, I am confident that unification is in our future. From my personal perspective, unification is long past due.

I was also blessed to experience the joys of celebrating the 125th anniversary of the ordination of Louisa Woosley in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Though I was familiar with her name, the historical significance of her groundbreaking ministry is still being felt. It was a joy to experience the election of the second woman Moderator of the CPC, Reverend Lisa Hall Anderson, and the worship services honoring ordained women in the CPC and CPCA. It is a testament to this heritage that Trinity Presbytery continues to receive and prepare women and men to ordained ministry. I pray that our churches will continue to be open to God’s call to receive candidates and ministers without regard to gender, and that our churches continue to pray for and support women in the life of the church.

I also was honored to serve as chair of the Committee on Judiciary for this assembly. It was the charge to Committee to receive and consider important referrals from the Permanent Committee on Judiciary, and the Missions Ministry Team, regarding the practical challenges of establishing Cumberland Presbyterian churches in areas outside of the geographic bounds of presbyteries, in keeping with our Presbyterian heritage. This matter was referred for further study by the Permanent Committee on Judiciary, and the Missions Ministry Team, and will be considered again by a future General Assembly.

Various workshops were abundant during the assembly, and I participated in events led by the Unification Task Force, and by the Missions Ministry Team, “Safe Sanctuary”. The presentations were insightful, and information from these workshops will be disseminated by our denominational leadership for the benefit of presbytery and our churches.

The assembly actions also included a few measures which passed but on which many disagreed, and one of which I rose to speak in opposition:

“Regarding In view of the theological direction and decisions of the Presbyterian Church USA, it is imperative for the Ministry Council to evaluate our association with the Presbyterian Church USA to re-determine the boundaries of that association, pending the actions of the meeting of the Presbyterian Church USA 2014 General Assembly.”

This action arose from the floor during consideration of the Missions Ministry Team report, and was entirely unrelated to the team’s report. The proponents of this measure were determined to dissociate the Cumberland Church, from the PC(USA) denomination. This was in response to anticipated actions of the PC(USA) general assembly regarding a constitutional change to permit all people to participate fully in the life of the church, including in marriage, without regard to sexual orientation. I spoke against the measure to dissociate for several reasons: I believe that church should advocate for people without regard to perceived differences in age, race, gender, economic status, health, sexual orientation, intelligence, or geographic status; I believe that God alone is judge of who will and who will not enjoy the fruits of God’s kingdom; I know many people who have been deeply and irreparably hurt by followers of Christ who see it as their imperative to condemn certain sinners as unworthy of God’s grace; in my journey, I have come to believe that “whosoever” includes people who often look, act, and think differently than me, and for this I praise God! And importantly, as Trinity Presbytery has been blessed with the shared ministry through several union churches, I was obliged to speak for our fellow presbyters that we are travelers on the same path, and it is right to stand together as people of faith.

Regarding my expenses, the presbytery allowance was sufficient to cover costs related to my participation in the meetings. I am requesting no other allowance in this regard.

Again, it was a great honor for me to be asked to represent Trinity Presbytery. I pray that my votes and my voice are in keeping with God’s will and the will of Presbytery, and I pray that God will continue to bless the ministry of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and Trinity Presbytery.

In Christ,

Ladd Daniel

REPORT OF YOUTH ADVISORY DELEGATE, LUKE HOUSE, CONCORD

I would like to begin this report on my experience at the meeting of the 184th annual General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church by thanking Trinity Presbytery for allowing me to represent them as a Youth Advisory Delegate. It was one of the most enlightening and enjoyable experiences I’ve had the pleasure of being a part of.

I was blessed to be able to attend worship services led by the CPCA ,as well as the CPC, which delivered a very powerful message that not only taught me, but many others as well about important aspects in both our physical and spiritual lives. I also had the opportunity as a YAD (Youth Advisory Delegate) to serve on the Committee of Higher Education. In this committee I learned many things, some of which consisted of the inconsistencies in the ordination of ministers across denominations, as well as the building of a new chapel at Bethel University for the use of students who attend this beautiful campus (which I had the pleasure of attending at this years CPYC). This brings me to the business conducted at this years General Assembly, which mostly consisted of the merging of The Cumberland Presbyterian Church and The Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America (which the youth voted unanimously in favor of). The discussions were mainly about what to name this newly formed denomination and what to use as it's logo. The most popular name to be suggested was The United Cumberland Presbyterian Church, however some deemed it too long and in need of shortening. Furthermore, I also attended both the Cumberland Presbyterian Children's Home dinner held to honor Brother James Gilbert, and, the Bethel University dinner. Having heard Brother Gilbert preach several times in Concord and being a member of the Concord Cumberland Presbyterian Church along with his daughter Suzanne made it even more memorable.

These events allowed me to acquaint myself with many individuals whom I'm sure I will keep in touch with for the entirety of my life. There were also activities I participated in with other YAD's which especially allowed me to thoroughly enjoy myself with other CP youth, and all of which are now lifelong friends.

The 184th Annual General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was one of, if not the single most, enjoyable learning experience I have ever been blessed to be a part of. Again, thank you for allowing me to participate.

REPORT OF THE YOUTH ADVISORY DELEGATE, DAVIS WEBB, HOUSTON FIRST

To Stated Clerk Hayes and Trinity Presbytery,

This year at the General Assembly of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, I was privileged to serve with Luke House as one of Trinity Presbytery's two Youth Advisory Delegates. I thank the Presbytery, especially the Board of Christian Education, for their recommendation and guidance that I was able to serve as a Youth Advisory Delegate, and cannot confess in words what an incredible and profound opportunity this has been for me. As a member of the Committee on Social and Theological Concerns, I was afforded the opportunity to discuss and debate several important issues, such as our unification efforts with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America, proposed ambiguity in the confession regard the exclusivity of Jesus Christ's role in salvation, and many of the current documents under review by the standing committee. I was introduced to and granted the opportunity to know better many wonderful individuals, such as Rev. Don Nunn, Rev. Chuck Brown, Rev. Darren Kennemer, Rev. Cynthia Maddux, and Rev. Byron Forrester. Through this experience I have also been able to understand more clearly the role of the General Assembly in the governing of the Church. The Assembly itself was outstandingly well orchestrated, the pre-assembly workshops, luncheons and dinners, and worship services consistently amazing me because of their excellence. Again, I extend my sincerest debt of gratitude to Trinity Presbytery for the honor of representing our Presbytery as a Youth Advisory Delegate.

Respectfully Submitted, Davis Webb

Report of the Board of Christian Education

August 16, 2014

The meeting was opened with prayer by Rev. Duane Dougherty.

Members present: Rev. Duane Dougherty (Chairperson), Charelle Webb (Secretary), Rev. Sung-In Park, Rev. Fredy Diaz, Shannon Martin, and David Dean.

Members absent: Rev. Joshua Murray, David Montoya and Chad Humphries.

Visitors: Benjamin Diaz, Marvin Terrell, John Dougherty, and Davis Webb.

The Board discussed details of recent and upcoming camps and retreats, and is pleased to make the following recommendations:

Recommendation #1

That the following details of Trinity Presbytery Jr/Jr High/Sr High Camp be approved:

Director: Brian Martin

Coordinator: Marvin Terrell

Date: July 19-24, 2015

Location: Camp Gilmont

Cost (Junior/Junior High/Senior High): $260 for registrations received on or before May 15th, 2015. $275 for registrations received after May 15th, 2015.

Theme to be determined

Registration forms will be available at the Winter Retreat.

Marvin Terrell will mail registration forms to all churches and past participants in February. Registration forms will also be posted on the Trinity Presbytery Facebook page.

Recommendation #2

That the following details of Trinity Presbytery Winter Retreat be approved:

Date: January 17-19.

Location: Webb Property, Buffalo, Texas

Director: Fredy Diaz

Ages: Current 6th graders through High School Seniors

Cost: $25

Recommendation #3

That the following Youth Advisory Delegates be considered for General Assembly in Cali, Colombia, June 20-25, 2015. As a reminder, any youth delegate travelling internationally must travel with a parent.

Benjamin Villa Diaz

Kiara Acevedo

Davis Webb – alternate

Additional Information

Camp Gilmont Visioning Dinner Tickets

Sunday, October 26, 6 p.m.

$35 per person

First Presbyterian Church Longview

Gratitude

The Board would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and give thanks for the nine years of superior service and leadership brought by Shannon Martin in her tireless work as a member and chair of this Board of Christian Education. Shannon’s gifts and contributions to our presbytery are immeasurable, and we are grateful for her years of service.

The meeting was closed with prayer by David Dean.

Respectfully submitted, Charelle Webb

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF FINANCE

MEETING IN HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS ON AUGUST 16, 2014

MINUTES

Board members present were: Chairman Brian Martin (Concord), James Cantey (Elmira Chapel), Suzanne Dougherty (Concord), James Webb (Houston), Sam Culpepper (Longview First), Ruben Albarracin (Nueva Vida), and Ethel Benedict (Bertram). Stated Clerk Paula Hayes was present at the meeting. The meeting was called to order by the chairman.

Opening prayer was by Sam Culpepper.

Sale of Presbyterial Property

Sale of Bethany manse has been completed. Funds have been received. Bethany Church plant and surrounding property has been transferred to the cemetery association.

Metairie Faith property is in dispute between members of the church and the church currently meeting in the property. Funds are available for the purchase when the dispute is resolved. By consensus, the Board agreed to allow additional time to resolve the dispute.

Pearland property commission is working with a potential buyer. The situation is unclear at this point.

Trinity Investment & Church Development Funds

There was a discussion on recommendations for the future use of funds generated through the sale of church property.

RECOMMENDATION #1:

Trinity Presbytery will create an account called the Trinity Investment Fund by incorporating it with the St. Paul Growth/Income Fund. Any proceeds from the presbytery selling church properties will be deposited into this fund following the reimbursement of presbytery funds used in the selling of such properties and the replenishment to a three-month level of both the health insurance reserve and the general reserve. The Trinity Investment Fund may only be used to generate interest for the Trinity Church Development Fund. The Board of Finance will manage the Trinity Investment Fund.

RECOMMENDATION #2:

Trinity Presbytery will create an account called Trinity Church Development Fund by renaming the St. Paul Interest Growth/Income Fund. This fund will receive the interest earned from the Trinity Investment Fund. The Trinity Church Development Fund may be used in one of three ways.

First, the fund may be used for new church development within Trinity Presbytery. The Trinity Presbytery Board of Finance will recommend financial assistance to new church developments based on requests from the Trinity Presbytery Board of Missions.

Second, churches with Trinity Presbytery may apply for grants for church development. Grants may only be issued in a matching format (dollar for dollar). Churches within Trinity Presbytery who are current with their apportionments may apply for grants through the Trinity Presbytery Board of Finance. Applications will be due by January 1 of each year and will be evaluated by the Board of Finance at its annual January meeting.

Third, the Board of Finance may allow the treasurer to utilize this fund to meet Presbytery obligations in the event of a shortfall in the Presbytery budget. The treasurer may request needed funds from this account from the Board of Finance.

The Board of Finance will develop an application and grant criteria by its January 2015 meeting.

Pine Hill Correspondence

The chairman of the Board of Finance will respond to this request for a reduction in Pine Hill’s apportionment. Although the Board of Finance continues to look for ways to lower the burden on individual churches, there are no plans at this point to make changes to the apportionment formula.

Overview by Stated Clerk/Treasurer

The Board reviewed and discussed the numbers for the period January 1 – July 31, 2014, including profit and loss (budget vs. actual) and related financial detail documents.

RECOMMENDATION #3:

That effective December 31, 2014, the presbytery will pay health insurance and life insurance premiums only for ministers serving the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for 30 hours or more per week. The Board of Finance recommends that each individual church evaluate the implications of this recommendation and assist, if needed, its pastor with the cost of dependent care

January 1, 2015, Letter to Churches

The Stated Clerk will send a letter on January 1 to churches regarding apportionments, including information on the 2015 apportionments.

2015 Budget

Based on Recommendation #2, the Board developed two budgets pending action by presbytery.

RECOMMENDATION #3: That Presbytery adopt the 2015 budget in the amount of $305,726 and the corresponding apportionment schedule.

The meeting was closed with prayer by James Cantey.

Respectfully submitted,

Ethel Benedict, Secretary

2014 BUDGET & PROPOSED 2015 BUDGETS

[[PASTING TABLES IS NOT SUPPORTED]]

2015 PROPOSED APPORTIONMENT SCHEDULE #1

MINISTERS ONLY ON INSURANCE

[[PASTING TABLES IS NOT SUPPORTED]]

2015 PROPOSED APPORTIONMENT SCHEDULE #2

WITH MINISTERS AND DEPENDENTS ON INSURANCE

[[PASTING TABLES IS NOT SUPPORTED]]

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIAL CONCERNS

REGULAR MEETING, August 16, 2014

Present: Rusty Rustenhaven, Al Davis, (telephone), Gloria Diaz, and Jack Holt, Mark McNeese

Absent: Ladd Daniel, (excused)

The meeting opened with prayer from the meeting of the Presbytery immediately prior to this meeting. The budget proposal was submitted to the Board of Finance.

The meeting was focused on concerns of obtaining and receiving session minutes.

Commissions can help - We discussed obtaining minutes when a commission is supervising the session and its minutes. Often the gaps in our minutes are due to times churches are under the care of commissions. This is not a reprimand to commissions. We know that commission work is often very difficult and demanding. Minutes might not be the first concern. However, the minutes are the official record of the churches. It would help our committee do its work if commissions would remember:

1.When a Commission actually has to close a church, they should secure all minutes and

other records to be archived.

2. Also, when a Commission successfully gets a church back on track, all minutes that

have not been filed with the Judicial Concerns Committee should be turned over at that

time.

3. Also Commissions should be reminded that a part of its duty is to help train sessions to

get into the habit of submitting its minutes.

Minutes Forgotten – We discussed another possible reason for gaps in sets of minutes is that previous committee members or clerks have minutes that have never been passed along to the committee. We encourage folks to check their files for the sake of history.

Moderators - There was concern expressed that session meetings are sometimes held without the knowledge of the “Appointed Moderator.” It was reiterated that notice must always be given to the moderator, even if the moderator is not present. The minutes should reflect the signature of the moderator as well as the pro tem and clerk.

Fellowships and Provisional Churches – We are not sure what our responsibility for church records are before a session or church is formed, but for historical reasons, we will begin to work with the Board of Missions to gather information as considered appropriate.

Note: There were no referrals for the Disciplinary Commission.

Respectfully submitted,

Your Judicial Concerns Committee

REPORT OF THE BOARD OF MISSIONS

To: Trinity Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, meeting with the Antioch congregation on September 26, 2014

Presbyters: the Board of Missions makes the following report.

The YeRang Korean Fellowship in Austin is being led by the Rev. Dr. Sung-in Park. They are ministering well and have had many of the people passing through the Fellowship who have returned to Korea where we now have 6 congregations with the hope of soon organizing a Presbytery in Korea.

The Oak Grove re-development project is being handled by a Commission from this Presbytery. The Rev. Walter Hoke is leading the congregation. They are getting talent and ministry support from the neighboring Bertram Church where the Rev. Daryl Johnson serves as Pastor. We expect the Commission to report progress.

The Kardia Fellowship in Tyler is under the direction of Mark Davenport. Mark asks that other churches in the Presbytery invite Kardia to attend their special events in order to build connectionalism. Property is being leased and the group is worshiping on a regular basis. We are pleased with the progress. We voted to remind Presbytery of our covenant with Mark from the Fall Minutes of 2013. “That the Rev. Mark Davenport be approved as the founding pastor of this proposed Tyler congregation, providing Rev. Davenport the following salary and benefits: Salary @ $40,000.00 per year, health insurance coverage as provided by Trinity Presbytery to Rev. Davenport and his spouse and dependents, 5-weeks of vacation time, up to 3 weeks for church camp/mission trip ministerial work, $1,500.00 per year for educational workshops and other ministerial opportunities, 2% salary increase each year, and a retirement contribution of $1,000.00 per year into a retirement account that Rev. Davenport establishes.”

We voted to recommend the adoption of the second recommendation from Jeff Gehle's report to Trinity's Presbytery Council and the Board of Missions dated August 29, 2014.

We had two Elders from Stone Oak thanking the Presbytery for support through challenging times. The building has been re-financed on a 15 year loan. Monthly payments are $7,121.00. Pledges have been taken for this year and the budget is $246,002.00. A Vision Banquet is being re-implemented to allow congregation to participate in goals and costs for next year.

Thankfully and Prayerfully,

The Board of Missions

REPORT #2 OF THE BOARD OF MISSIONS

September 26, 2014

RECOMMENDATION: The Board of Missions recommends that Trinity Presbytery recognize the dissolution of the relationship between Pastor Joshua Murray and the Antioch C P Church, Quitman, LA based upon a letter dated July 12, 2014 and received by the Stated Clerk.

Report of the Permanent Task Force on Clergy Care

To Trinity Presbytery

September 26, 2014

Meeting at the Antioch Cumberland Presbyterian Church

Quitman, Louisiana

The Task Force met on August 15, 2014 with all members present and submits the following report.

The Task Force discussed communications from Rev. Michael Insley notifying the Presbytery that he has become a licensed and ordained Baptist minister and Rev. Dr. Charles Smith notifying the Presbytery that he has been baptized and received chrismation into Saint John the Theologian Orthodox Mission in Louisiana.

(Note: In the Orthodox Church the sacrament of Chrismation is the seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Chrismation is performed by anointing all parts of the person’s body with the special oil called holy chrism.)

Although both men have already left the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, for the Task Force Don Nunn was assigned to contact Charles Smith and James Cantey to contact Michael Insley.

Recommendation 1: The Task Force recommends that Trinity Presbytery remove Michael Insley and Charles Smith from the Roll of Ordained Clergy and notify the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly of this action.

The Task Force received a requested communication from Rev. Sharon Bowers. She has found part-time employment as a chaplain with Silverado Hospice of Austin.

Trinity Presbytery has continued to provide Sharon’s health insurance since her relationship with the St. Paul church was dissolved in the fall of 2004, although our commitment was for up to six months.

Recommendation 2: The Task Force recommends that Trinity Presbytery discontinue paying Sharon’s insurance effective December 31, 2014.

Sharon can continue coverage through the denomination if she desires to pay for it, but can probably find less expensive coverage in the marketplace.

The Task Force met with Dr. Leslie Attema who is a member of the Freeport Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It is her desire to become an ordained minister in Trinity Presbytery. Leslie was ordained by Pilgrim Church, a congregation of the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference. The congregation is also a union congregation of the PCUSA (Boston Presbytery). They are exploring affiliating with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.

Leslie is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire (1978) and Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary (2001-M.Div. and 2007-D.Min.). She has also completed required polity and history courses through the Cumberland Presbyterian Program of Alternate Studies. She married Rev. Lee Attema in March of this year and is working with the Freeport church.

Recommendation 3: The Task Force recommends that Leslie be received by Trinity Presbytery as a Licentiate. This is in accordance with the Confession of Faith and the handbook “Understanding the Process for Ordination in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.” She will continue under care of the Task Force.

The Task Force met with Rev. Karen Brasher regarding her desire to transfer from Grace Presbytery (Alabama) of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church to Trinity Presbytery. The Task Force determined that the Presbytery should not at this time receive her letter of dismissal and recommendation. Instead the Task Force recommended to Karen that she seek permission from Grace Presbytery and Southeast Synod to labor outside their bounds. The Task Force recommended to Karen that she attend meetings of Presbytery, allowing an opportunity for us to get to know her and her us.

Recommendation 4: That the letter of Dismissal and Recommendation of Karen Brasher from Grace Presbytery not be received at this time.

The Task Force received a written communication from. Rev. John V. Lindsay. John desires to transfer his membership from Red River Presbytery to Trinity. Since John is well known to members of the Task Force he was not asked to be present for a formal interview. He resigned as pastor of the Denton Cumberland Presbyterian Church and is living in Marshall. He is presently filling pulpits, working with the Marshall fire department, and worshipping with the Marshall Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The Stated Clerk of Trinity Presbytery has a copy of his letter of dismissal and recommendation on file.

Recommendation 5: The Task Force recommends that Rev. John V. Lindsay be received into Trinity Presbytery.

The Rev. Joshua Murray has moved to Arkansas, outside the bounds of Trinity Presbytery. The relationship between Josh and the church was dissolved at their request because they did not have funds to pay his salary. For the time being Josh wants to remain a member of Trinity until he finds another pastorate. The Presbytery is obligated to continue insurance coverage for up to six months.

The Task Force requested an update on his status from Rev. Mark Mitchum. Mark replied that he intends to move to Kuwait August 22nd and take a position as a high school principal. The Task Force is aware of some troubling issues in Mark’s life and wants to discuss these with him.

Recommendation 6: The Task Force recommends that Mark Mitchum’s ordination be suspended until such time as he can meet with the Task Force to resolve these issues.

Rev. Mark McNeese sent a written communication to the Task Force requesting permission to labor outside bounds of presbytery in a congregation of the PCUSA and as a chaplain with the Boy Scouts of America.

Recommendation 7: The Task Force recommends the approval of Mark McNeese’s request. He must also request permission from Mission Synod.

The Task Force also discussed the status of other ministers who are members of Trinity Presbytery, but not serving congregations. Members of the Task Force were assigned to contact these ministers.

Respectfully submitted,

The Permanent Task Force on Clergy Care

REPORT OF THE PRESBYTERY COUNCIL

Your Presbytery Council met on August 15, 2014 at First Presbyterian Church, Huntsville, Texas.

Present at the meeting were: Duane Dougherty, Board of CE, Taskforce on Ordained Clergy; Robert Rush, Committee on Probationers; Rusty Rustenhaven, Committee on Judicial Concerns; Le Ila Dixon, Board of Missions; Brian Martin, Board of Finance; Jimmy Cantey, Moderator; Paula Hayes, Stated Clerk.

Visiting the meeting were: Shannon Martin and Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick

The meeting was called to order by Moderator Cantey and the opening prayer was offered by Rev. Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick.

The Treasurer’s report was reviewed and approved.

A report was received from Rev. Jeff Gehle and he was complimented on the progress he has made thus far in visiting and working with many of our churches.

RECOMMENDATION 1: That Rev. Jeff Gehle be hired for an additional year and that his title be changed from Director of Evangelism and Outreach to Organizational Strategist.

Resignations were received and approved, as listed – Joshua Murray from the Board of CE, Bob Weston from the Board of Missions, Kathy Wilkerson from the Board of Missions, Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick from the Committee on Probationers.

RECOMMENDATION 2: That the following be elected to the positions for which they are nominated:

Commissioners to General Assembly:

Minister Principals 1. Jimmy Cantey

2. Duane Dougherty

Minister Alternates 1. Freddy Diaz

2. Gloria Diaz

Elder Principals 1. Marvin Terrell, Elmira Chapel

2. Tatiana Eyers, Nueva Vida

Elder Alternates 1. Jane Ogden

2.______________________________________________

Board of Christian Education

Davis Webb be elected to a three-year term

Karen Locke be elected to a three year term

Marvin Terrell be elected to a three year term

Board of Finance & Trustees

Ethel Benedict be re-elected to a three year term

Brian Martin be re-elected to a three year term

Suzanne Dougherty be re-elected to a three year term

Board of Missions

Pat Terrell be re-elected to a three year term

Steve Turner be re-elected to a three year term

Tony Martin be elected to a three year term

Toby Davis to replace Bob Weston for a one year term

Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick to replace Kathy Wilkerson for a one year term

Committee on Judicial Concerns

Cathy Bettoney be elected to a three year term

Jack Holt be re-elected to a three year term

Taskforce on Theological and Social Concerns

______________________________ be re-elected to a three year term

Committee on Probationers

Geoff Knight be re-elected to a three year term

Bill Thomas be elected to a three year term

John Lindsey be elected to a three year term

Donna Jo Thompson replace Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick for a one year term

THE REPORT ON THE COMMITTEE ON PROBATION CARE

The Committee on Probation Care did not meet in August.

BUDGET REQUEST

The Committee requested that $12,050 be apportioned from the 2015 budget. This is

the same amount we have requested for the past three years.

LICENTIATE JOHN LAWSON

Licentiate John Lawson attended the school for the Program of Alternate Studies

in 2012, but has not completed all of the assignments due to health issues. Mr.

Lawson has not been able to attend the school the past two years. When the assignments

for 2012 are completed, Michael Qualls, the Director of the Program of Alternate

Studies, has approved a plan for a member of Trinity Presbytery to teach the

remaining courses for Mr. Lawson

CANDIDATE DAVID MONTOYA

Candidate David Montoya Hilbron will not be enrolling in seminary this fall, as he will

have to work full time due to family responsibilities. Mr. Montoya hopes to take on line

courses through either Memphis Theological Seminary or Austin Presbyterian Seminary.

A CALL TO PRAYER

Every congregation is encouraged to set aside one Sunder per month to pray for people

to respond to the call to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. Throughout the denomination

there is a need for persons of all ages to respond to the call to the Ministry of Word and

Sacrament.

NEXT MEETING

The next regular meeting of the Committee will be 10 January 2015 in Huntsville, Texas

Respectfully Submitted,

Robert D. Rush

Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick

REPORT OF THE STATED CLERK/TREASURER

To: Trinity Presbytery meeting with Antioch Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Quitman, Louisiana on September 26, 2014

Please send a copy of your current Session roster to my office. These are needed yearly. In addition, please make sure that Trinity Presbytery is an “additional insured” on your insurance policy. There is no additional charge to have this done.

Thanks to all of the churches who are “digging deep” to keep Trinity solvent. It is so very appreciated.

The financial report can be found in Appendix A