Trinity Presbytery
2018 Called Meeting in Huntsville and Spring Minutes of Trinity Presbytery in Freeport
MINUTES
OF
TRINITY PRESBYTERY
MEETING IN CALLED SESSION
AT
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
HUNTSVILLE, TX
JANUARY 20, 2018
AND
MEETING IN REGULAR SESSION
WITH
FIRST CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
FREEPORT, TX
FEBRUARY 16, 2018
Table of Contents
Directory……............................................................................................................. 3
Roll of Congregations................................................................................................ 4
Roll of Ministers, Candidates & Licentiates............................................................... 6
Commissioners, Delegates, Representatives........................................................... 7
Presbytery Boards, Committees and Task Force..................................................... 8
Standing Rules of Trinity Presbytery........................................................................ 11
Moderators and Meeting Places............................................................................... 23
Cash Funds Management and Endowment Accounts............................................. 25
Review of Session Records (Contacts).................................................................... 27
Minutes of the Called Meeting of Trinity Presbytery, January 20, 2018................... 28
Minutes of the Spring Meeting of Trinity Presbytery................................................. 30
Appendix A: Rolls of Attendance and Ordained Clergy Report............................... 35
Appendix B: Agenda................................................................................................. 38
Appendix C: Communications.................................................................................. 39
Appendix D: Report of the Commission to Ordain and Install John Lawson........... 40
Appendix E: Report of the Mount Hope Commission.............................................. 40
Appendix F: Report of Commission to Oversee the Candidacy of Gary Schwitz.. 41
Appendix G: Report of the Board of Christian Education........................................ 41
Appendix H: Report of the Board of Finance & Trustees......................................... 43
Appendix I: Report of the Committee on Judicial Concerns.................................. 48
Appendix J: Report #1 of the Board of Missions..................................................... 49
Appendix K: Report #2 of the Board of Missions .................................................... 51
Appendix L: Report of the Permanent Taskforce of Ordained Clergy.................... 51
Appendix M: Report of the Presbytery Council........................................................ 52
Appendix N: Report of the Stated Clerk/Treasurer.................................................. 53
Appendix O: Report of the Taskforce on Theological & Social............................... 58
Appendix P: Report of the Committee on Resolutions............................................. 59
Grant Application....................................................................................................... 60
DIRECTORY
TRINITY PRESBYTERY OF THE CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
P. O. BOX 5449, LONGVIEW, TEXAS 75608
PHONE: 903-759-0092
[[PASTING TABLES IS NOT SUPPORTED]]
PRESBYTERY COUNCIL ROLL OF CONGREGATIONS
(AP = Associate Pastor, CL = Session Clerk, S = Supply, IP = Interim Pastor,
MO = Moderator, PA = Pastor, SS = Stated Supply, OD=member of other denomination),
Antioch................................................ 518 North Antioch Road, PO Box 42, Quitman, LA 71268........ 318-259-7069
MO: Nunn, Don……………………203 Bridgers Hill Rd., Longview, TX 75604…….....…………… 903-297-6074
CL: Jerry Hanes................................................... 5104 Beech Springs Road, Quitman, LA 71268-1014...................... 318-259-4246
Austin First........................................ 6800 Woodrow, Austin, TX 78757-2545.......................................... 512-453-8434
SS: Ronald Stevenson...................... 6800 Woodrow, Austin, TX 78757-2545………………………….512-761-1966
CL: Nick Hadden................................................ 6800 Woodrow, Austin, TX 78757-2545............................................ 512-638-9558
Bertram............................................... P. O. Box 242, Bertram, TX 78605.................................................... 512-355-3552
PA: Daryl Johnson............................. 425 West Vaughn, Bertram, TX 78605............................................... 512-355-3552
CL: Sam Hamilton.............................................. PO Box 242, Bertram, TX 78605.......................................................... 512-355-3552
Concord............................................... 212 CR 4705, Troup, TX 75789.......................................................... 903-842-4745
PA: Duane Dougherty....................... 212 CR 4705, Troup, TX 75789............................................................ 903-658-0576
CL: Kerry House................................................... 319 Windridge, Whitehouse, TX 75791.............................................. 903-839-3446
Daingerfield....................................... 307 Broadnax, P. O. Box 645, Daingerfield, TX 75638................ 903-645-2183
PA: John Lawson............................... PO Box 1427, Lone Star, TX 75668..................................................... 903-656-2986
CL: Sharon Lawson................................................. P. O. Box 1427, Lone Star, TX 75668................................................. 903-656-2986
Elmira Chapel................................... 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605-2809.............................. 903-759-2069
PA: James Cantey………………… 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605………………………... 903-452-6049
CL: Sherry Poteet………………… 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605 ……………………..…903-759-2069
Freeport…………………………………..1402 W. Broad St., Freeport, TX 77541……………………………979-233-2852
MO: Gloria Villa Diaz……………..2425 Holly Hall #B42, Houston, TX 77054………………………832-758-5871
CL: Cathy Bettoney.......................... 1149 Ash Street, Clute, TX 77531........................................................ 979-265-7630
Houston First..................................... 2119 Avalon Place, Houston, TX, 77019-6498............................... 713-522-7821
PA: Geoffrey Knight.......................... 2119 Avalon Place, Houston, TX, 77019-6498.................................. 713-522-7821
AP: Fredy Diaz-Villa............................................. 2119 Avalon Place, Houston, TX 77019-6498................................... 713-522-7821
CL: Linda Trajo ................................. 2119 Avalon Place, Houston, TX 77019-6498................................... 713-522-7821
Jefferson............................................. 501 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson, TX 75657………………….........903-665-2883
MO: Mark Davenport…………… 225 Tennison Road, #7206, Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455…………… 205.-427-4941
CL: Sherri Tucker 1715 Envy Lane, Longview, TX 75604………………………… 903-665-2883
Marshall.............................................. 501 Indian Springs Rd., P. O. Box 1303, Marshall, TX 75671.. 903-935-3787
PA: William “Rusty” Rustenhaven 501 Indian Springs Rd, Marshall,TX 75671....................................... 903-935-3787
AP: Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick........ 501 Indian Springs Rd, Marshall,TX 75671....................................... 903-9353787
CL: Shirley Jones .............................. 104 Hillcrest Terrace, Marshall, TX 75672......................................... 903-938-3980
Mount Hope....................................... Box 66, Joinerville, TX 75658............................................................. 903-847-3451
MO: Commission to Mount Hope; Rev. Duane Dougherty, Chair
CL: Anna J. Holman……………………… P. O. Box 115, Joinerville, TX 75658………………………………………………903-847-3801
Northminster...................................... 6800 Tezel Road, San Antonio, TX 78250....................................... 210-680-4825
IP: Carl McCauley............................. 6800 Tezel Road, San Antonio, TX 78250......................................... 210-680-4825
CL: Steve Richards............................................... 16811 Mossford, San Antonio, TX 78256 .......................................... 210-392-5161
New Journey………………………2401 Alpine Road, Longview, TX 75601……………………….903-758-5184
MO: Turner, Steve………………….7622 Snyder Rd., Gilmer, TX 75645-3915.................................... ..903-738-8831
CL: Mollie Benson……………… 567 Hidden Forest, Longview, TX 75605………………………… 903-663-0443
Nueva Vida......................................... 18060 Kieth Harrow Blvd., Houston, TX 77084............................ 832-593-8355
PA: Ruben Albarracin……………. 7411 Magnolia Shadows Lane, Houston, TX 77095………………281-463-8617
CL: Tatiana Eyer ….………………18118 Dovefield Ln, Cypress TX 77433…………………………..832-992-9245
Oak Grove.......................................... 12951 Ranch Road 2338, Georgetown, TX 78633......................... 512-258-1102
MO: Sharon Bowers………………201 Wild Buffalo Drive, Kyle, TX 78640……………………….. 512-361-8471
CL: Sharon Blayney………………430 CR 217, Florence, TX 76527…………………………………512-789-0952
Pine Hill.............................................. 591 County Road 2376, Winnsboro, TX 75494........................ None Listed
MO: Jack Holt …………………..5039 Hwy 37N, Clarksville, TX ……………............................903-428-9099
CL: Kim Moore.................................. 933 CR 3369, Saltillo, TX 75458......................................................... 903-438-6429
Pine Tree............................................ P. O. Box 5340, Longview, TX 75608-5340..................................... 903-759-2685
PA: John Lindsay………………..…401 Greenwood Ave, Marshall, TX 75670………………………903.-759-2685
CL: Darlynn Jones………………….P.O. Box 5340, Longview, TX 75608-5340……………………...903-759-2685
Progress.............................................. 3643 Progress Road, Pleasant Hill, LA 71065................................ 318-796-3725
MO: Steve Turner.............................. 7622 Snider Road, Gilmer, TX 75645................................................. 903-738-8831
CL: Carolyn W. Gewin……………722 Gewin Lane, Pleasant Hill, LA 71065……………………… 318-796-3703
Round Rock (UC)............................. 4010 Sam Bass Road, Round Rock, TX 78681............................... 512-244-2152
IP: Ronald Perdue…………………4010 Sam Bass Road, Round Rock, TX 78681…………………………512-244-2152
CL: Paul Jordan …………………4010 Sam Bass Road, Round Rock, TX 78681……………………………512-244-2152
Shepherd of the Hills (UC)............. 5226 West William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244........... 512-892-3580
P: Leon Bloder.................................... 5226 West William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244............... 512-892-3580
AP: Britta Dukes.................................................... 5226 West William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244............... 512-892-3580
CL: Ted Thulin................................................... 5226 West William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244............... 512-892-3580
Shiloh................................................... 2013 Farm Road 1159, Clarksville, TX 75426............................... 903-427-2768
PA: Jack Holt...................................... 5039 Hwy. 37 N, Clarksville, TX 75426............................................ 903-517-8387
CL: Mary J. McGill................................................... 4928 CR 3275, Clarksville, TX 75426................................................. 903-427-3785
Stone Oak........................................... 20024 Crescent Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78258.............................. 210-497-7974
MO: J. P. Kessie.................................. 138 Pony Grass Lane, Bastrop, TX 78602.......................................... 210-497-7974
CL: Joseph Cesmirosky.......................................... 20024 Crescent Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78258.................................. 210-616-0900
Roll of Ministers, Candidates, and Licentiates Ministers
Albarracin, Ruben.............................. 7411 Magnolia Shadows Lane, Houston, TX 77095......................... 281-463-8617
Attema, Lee......................................... PO Box 138, San Ignacio, Kocayo District, Belize, CA
Attema, Leslie..................................... PO Box 138, San Ignacio, Kocayo District, Belize, CA
Bloder, Leon....................................... 5226 West William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244............... 512-892-3580
Bone, Harold....................................... 28013 Copperleaf Dr., Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015......................... 210-859-5560
Bowers, Sharon.................................. 201 Wild Buffalo Dr., Kyle,TX 78640................................................ 512-230-7078
Bozeman, Robert (Hon. Ret.).............................. 582 Bozeman Loop, Belmont, LA 71406............................................ 318-256-5781
Cantey, James............................................................... 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605........................................... 903-291-0929
Chancellor, Hilton (Hon. Ret.)......... 11905 Preserve Vista, Austin, TX 78738............................................ 512-382-1972
Colvard, Kevin (Hon. Ret.).............. 27027 Harmony Hills, San Antonio, TX 78260................................. 205-267-9372
Davenport, Mark.………………… 225 Tennison Road, #7206, Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455……………..205-427-4941
Diaz, Fredy.......................................... 2425 Holly Hall #B42, Houston, TX 77054....................................... 832-305-2379
Diaz, Gloria Villa....................................................... 2425 Holly Hall #B42, Houston, TX 77054....................................... 832-602-9057
Dougherty, Duane................................................... 212 CR 4705, Troup, TX 75789............................................................ 903-658-0576
Dukes, Britta....................................... 5226 W. William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749-2244................... 512-892-3580
Gonzalez, Nora ………………… 2515 Blueberry Lane, Pasadena, TX 77502……………………… 832-202-5572
Hannah, Hugh..................................... 217 Mitchell Road SE, Cleveland, TN 37323-8173.......................... 423-473-7852
Harris, Ernest (Hon. Ret.).............................. 610 Turtle Creek Drive, Reno, TX 75462........................................... 903-782-9712
Hoke, Walter....................................... 215 Navaho Trail, Georgetown, TX 78633......................................... 512-869-1948
Holt, Jack............................................. 5039 Hwy. 37N, Clarksville, TX 75426............................................. 903-517-8387
Jarnagin, Mary L.(Ret.)..................... 1026 Clayton Lane, Apt. 6202, Austin, TX 78723............................ 512-709-4787
Johnson, Daryl............................................................... 425 West Vaughn, Bertram, TX 78605............................................... 512-355-3552
Kessie, J. P. (Hon. Ret.)........................................... 138 Pony Grass Lane, Bastrop,TX 78602........................................... 512-585-1617
Kirkpatrick, Mary Kathryn.............. 501 Indian Springs Rd, Marshall,TX 75672....................................... 903-930-6236
Knight, Geoffrey................................ 11746 Pecan Creek Dr., Houston, TX, 77043..................................... 281-870-8776
Lawson, John...................................... PO Box 645, Daingerfield, TX 75638.................................................. 903-656-2986
Lindsey, John...................................... 401 Greenwood Ave., Marshall, TX 75670........................................ 940-391-1213
Magrill, Richard (Hon. Ret.)............ 500 Miller Dr., Marshall, TX 75672……………………………….903-923-0981
McCarty, John (Hon. Ret.)............... 305 W. Martindale Dr., Marshall, TX 75672...................................... 423-650-8788
McNeese, Mark.................................. 3306 Greenlawn Pkwy., Austin, TX 78757........................................ 512-517-1042
Mitchum, Mark (Suspended)...........
Nunn, Don........................................... 203 Bridgers Hill Rd., Longview, TX 75604…….....…………… 903-297-6074
Park, Sung-In...................................... 10109 Loxley Lane, Austin, TX, 78717.............................................. 512-461-3664
Parsons, Hugh L.(Hon. Ret.)............ 1526 Welch, Houston, TX 77006-1840............................................... 713-522-6126
Rush, Robert....................................... 12935 Quail Park Drive, Cypress, TX 77429..................................... 832-458-4869
Rustenhaven, Jr., William(Hon.Ret. 703 West Burleson, Marshall, TX 75670............................................ 903-935-7056
Rustenhaven III, Wm. “Rusty”................................ 501 Indian Springs Rd., P. O. Box 1303, Marshall, TX 75672....... 903-935-3787
Santillano, Ray Paul.......................... 9419 Boatman Pier, Converse, TX 78109........................................... 210-602-7788
Schwitz, Gary Wayne....................... 2401 Alpine Road, Longview, TX 75601.......................................... 903-758-5184
Smith, David R.(Hon. Ret)............... PO Box 892, Rosepine, LA 70659........................................................
Stevenson, Ron(PCUSA).................. 6800 Woodrow, Austin, TX 78757-2545............................................ 512-453-8434
Turner, Steve....................................... 7622 Snyder Rd., Gilmer, TX 75645-3915........................................ 903-738-8831
Wayman, Sam (Hon. Ret.)........................................... 707 High Hill Creek Rd., LaGrange, TX 75945................................. 210-260-3852
Weston, Robert (Hon. Ret.).............................. 11 Summer Bluff, San Antonio, TX 78254......................................... 210-347-0232
COMMISSIONERS, DELEGATES & REPRESENTATIVES
188TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY, NORMAN, OKLAHOMA
JUNE 17-21, 2018
COMMISSIONERS
MINISTER PRINCIPALS MINISTER ALTERNATES
Jack Holt John Lindsay
Gloria Villa Diaz Jimmy Cantey
ELDER PRINCIPALS ELDER ALTERNATES
James Webb Houston 1st CPC Dell Sheftall, Stone Oak CPC
Marcia Ross, Pine Tree CPC Sandra Mager, Concord CPC
YOUTH ADVISORY DELEGATES
PRINCIPALS ALTERNATES
Natalia Rodriguez, Nueva Vida CPC Chloe Martin, Concord CPC
MISSION SYNOD DELEGATES
MINISTER PRINCIPALS MINISTER ALTERNATES
Duane Dougherty Mary Katherine Kirkpatrick
ELDER PRINCIPALS ELDER ALTERNATES
John Dougherty, Jefferson CPC Owen Smith, Marshall CPC
CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHILDREN’S HOME REPRESENTATIVE
Jenann Leslie........................... 300 Henley Perry, Marshall, TX 75672...................... 903-938-6642
FRATERNAL DELEGATE TO NEW COVENANT PRESBYTERY (PCUSA)
Rev. Robert Rush. .............................. 12935 Quail Park Drive, Cypress, TX 77429............................ 832-458-4869
FRATERNAL DELEGATE TO GRACE PRESBYTERY (PCUSA)
Rev. Steve Turner..................... 7622 Snyder Rd., Gilmer, TX 75645-3915.................. 903-738-8831
FRATERNAL DELEGATE TO MISSION PRESBYTERY (PCUSA)
Mark McNeese................................... 3306 Greenlawn Pkwy., Austin, TX 78757........................................... 512-517-1042
PRESBYTERY BOARDS, COMMITTEES & PERMANENT TASK FORCE
*Chair of Board or Committee
BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Term Expires in 2018
Charelle Webb (3)................................. 3507 Pickering Lane, Pearland, TX 77584.................................................... 281-412-0812
Johana Estrada (1)................................. 21227Park Run Drive, Katy, TX 77450......................................................... 802-955-6342
*Shannon Martin (1) ............................ 614 CR 4608, Troup, TX 75789..................................................................... 903-283-2190
Term Expires in 2019
Daryl Johnson (1)................................... 425 West Vaughn, Bertram, TX 78605........................................................ 512-355-3552
Duane Dougherty (3)............................. 212 CR 4705, Troup, TX 75789.................................................................... 903-658-0576
David Dean (2)............................................................... 7515 FM 1793, Karnak, TX 75661............................................................... 903-938-0927
Term Expires in 2020
David Montoya (1)................................ 504 Park Place, Marshall, TX 75672............................................................. 832-336-6897
John Lindsay (1)............................................................... 401 Greenwood Ave, Marshall, TX 75670................................................... 940-391-1213 Marvin Terrell (2)............................................................... 5811 Yarbrough Road, Longview, TX 75604................................................ 903-759-1305
BOARD OF FINANCE & TRUSTEES
(** Presbytery Trustee)
Term Expires in 2018
Owen Smith (2)..................................... 119 Pine Island Drive, Marshall, TX 75672................................................. 903-938-9887
James Cantey (3)................................... 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605...................................................... 903-759-2069
**James Webb* (2).......................................................... 3507 Pickering Lane, Pearland, TX 77584.................................................... 713-779-4626
Term Expires in 2019
Bill DeWare (1)...................................... PO Box 857, Jefferson, TX 75657................................................................. 903-353-8503
**Marcia Ross (1)............................................................... PO Box 5036,, Longview, TX 75608.............................................................. 903-746-3053
**Lue Wilhite (1)................................... PO Box 388, Florence, TX 76527.................................................................. 512-565-1599
Term Expires in 2020
William “Rusty” Rustenhaven (2).......... 501 Indian Springs Road, Marshall, TX 75672............................................. 903-935-3787
Sam Hamilton (1)............................................................... 8906 North FM 1174, Burnet, TX 78611...................................................... 512-788-2020
Rev. Jack Holt (1).................................. 1400 W. Main, Clarksville, TX 75426........................................................... 903-428-9909
BOARD OF MISSIONS
Term Expires in 2018
Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick (2)................. 501 Indian Springs Rd, Marshall,TX 75672....................................... 903-930-6236
Kessie, J. P. (1)............................................................... 138 Pony Grass Lane, Bastrop,TX 78602........................................... 512-585-1617
Diaz, Fredy (1)............................................................... 2425 Holly Hall #B42, Houston, TX 77054................................................... 832-305-2379
Term Expires in 2019
Tammy Bailey (1)................................... 15 Woodhaven, Longview, TX 75604-2029................................................. 903-720-2608
Dell Sheftall (1)............................................................... 8 Tressard, San Antonio, TX 78248.............................................................. 210-219-2096
Nancy Abernathy (3)............................. 5420 Tenneryville Road, Longview, TX 75604............................................. 903-759-4057
Term Expires 2020
Geoff Knight (1)..................................... 11746 Pecan Creek Dr., Houston, TX 77073................................................ 281-780-8776
Ray Santilliano (1)............................................................... 9419 Boatman Pier, Converse, TX 78109.................................................... 210-602-7788 *Tony Martin (3)............................................................... 470 CR 4608, Troup, TX 75789..................................................................... 903-842-4905
COMMITTEE ON JUDICIAL CONCERNS
Term Expires in 2018
Ladd Daniel (3)...................................... 13023 Taylorcrest Rd., Houston, TX 77079................................................. 713-463-8352
Gloria Villa Diaz (3).......................................................... 2425 Holly Hall #B42,Houston, TX 77054.................................................... 832-602-9057
Term Expires in 2019
Rose Mary Magrill (1)............................ 203 Pitts Ave, Marshall, TX 75672............................................................... 903-935-6609
Pat Terrell (1)............................................................... 5811 Yarbrough Road, Longview, TX 75604................................................ 903-759-1305
Term Expires in 2020
Cathy Bettoney (2)................................ 1149 Ash St., Clute TX 77531...................................................................... 979-265-7630
Brian Martin (1)............................................................... 614 CR 4608, Troup, TX 75789..................................................................... 903-283-2190
PERMANENT TASKFORCE ON THEOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL CONCERNS
(Ex-officio Member: Paula Hayes, Stated Clerk)
Term Expires in 2018
*Mark McNeece.................................... 3306 Greenlawn Pkwy., Austin, TX 78757................................................... 512-517-1042
Term Expires in 2019
Ruben Albarracin................................... 7411 Magnolia Shadows Lane, Houston, TX 77095..................................... 281-463-8617
Term Expires in 2020
Sharon Bowers ...................................... 201 Wild Buffalo Drive, Kyle, TX 78640....................................................... 512-230-7078
COMMITTEE ON PROBATIONERS
Term Expires in 2018
Don Nunn (3)......................................... 203 Bridgers Hill Rd., Longview, TX 75604.................................................. 903-297-6074
Donna Jo Thompson(2)......................................... 21102 Eagle Ridge Ct., San Antonio, TX 78258............................................ 210-789-8452
John Dougherty (2)................................ 6320 Lewis Chapel Road, Jefferson, TX 75657............................................ 903-665-8780
Term Expires in 2019
Jack Holt(1)............................................ 747 Slumber Pass, San Antonio, TX 78260.................................................. 210-279-1140
*Robert Rush. (3).................................. 12935 Quail Park Drive, Cypress, TX 77429................................................. 832-458-4869
Term Expires in 2020
Walter Hoke (1)..................................... 215 Navajo Trail, Georgetown, TX 78633.................................................... 512-869-1948
Bill Thomas (2)............................................................... NG 41 Lake Cherokee, Longview, TX 75603................................................ 903-258-6046
PERMANENT TASK FORCE ON ORDAINED CLERGY
Diaz, Fredy............................................. 2425 Holly Hall #B42, Houston, TX 77054................................................... 832-305-2379
Pat Terrell.............................................. 5811 Yarbrough Road, Longview, TX 75604................................................ 903-759-1305
Don Nunn............................................... 808 Toler Road, Longview, TX 75604........................................................... 903-297-6074
James Cantey......................................... 3501 Elmira Drive, Longview, TX 75605...................................................... 903-759-2069
William “Rusty” Rustenhaven .............. 501 Indian Springs Road, Marshall, TX 75672............................................. 903-935-3787
Linda Trejo Todd.................................... 4618 DeLange, Houston, TX 77092.............................................................. 713-820-5696
Jack Holt................................................ 747 Slumber Pass, San Antonio, TX 78260.................................................. 210-279-1140
PRESBYTERY INSURANCE COMMITTEE
Moderator
Vice-Moderator
Chair of the Board of Missions
Chair of the Board of Finance & Trustees
Chair of the Permanent Taskforce on Ordained Clergy
Stated Clerk/Treasurer
Standing Rules of Trinity Presbytery
Revised SPRING 2018
IName of Presbytery
The name of this presbytery shall be Trinity Presbytery.
II. Meetings of Presbytery
The Trinity Presbytery shall meet annually. The annual meeting shall consist of two regular sessions. Each regular session’s worship service shall conclude with a celebration of the Lord’s Supper and the September worship service shall include a Memorial Roll Call. The retiring moderator shall preach at the February session.
l.
A. February Session: The February session shall be held on the third Friday and Saturday in February beginning Friday at 1:00 p.m.
B. September Session: The September session shall be held on the last Friday and Saturday in September beginning Friday at 1:00 p.m.
C. Special Meetings: Trinity Presbytery may, when an emergency requires it, be called to meet in a special session. The call for any special session shall meet the requirements of Section 5.8 of The Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
D. Attendance: Ordained ministers who are members of Trinity Presbytery or who serve as stated supply for any congregation on the presbytery’s roll shall attend all meetings of the presbytery, or present to the stated clerk a valid reason for absence. The session of every congregation on the presbytery’s roll shall elect one or more of its members (number to be determined by reference to Section 5.4 of The Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church) to attend presbytery as its representative(s). Sessions whose representative(s) cannot attend presbytery as its representatives shall request, through the stated clerk-treasurer, an excuse for non-attendance.
Licentiates and candidates shall attend all meetings of the presbytery. When this is not possible, a request to be excused shall be directed to the presbytery through the stated clerk-treasurer, and the chairperson of the Committee on Probationers shall be informed of this request. Only the presbytery can act on reasons for non-attendance, or approve one’s leaving prior to the final adjournment.
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A. Agenda and Program: The agenda and program for each meeting of presbytery is to be prepared by the Presbyterial Council. Each regular session of presbytery shall include six five-minute presentations concerning the life of the local congregations. Congregations shall be scheduled for presentation in alphabetical order. Each regular session of the presbytery shall also include one 30-minutes presentation from a board or standing committee of the presbytery. Boards and committees shall be scheduled for presentations according to the order of their listing in the presbyterial directory. At each February session there shall be a two-hour orientation for new members of presbytery. This orientation shall be planned and led by the Board of Missions.
B. Place of Meeting: The Presbyterial Council shall receive invitations from congregations willing to host presbytery and shall make a recommendation to presbytery. If there are no invitations, the Presbyterial Council will secure a place of meeting to recommend to presbytery.
C. Presbytery Year: The presbytery year shall begin January 1 and end December 31.
Officers of the Presbytery
A. Moderator: The moderator shall be elected in the February session to serve a period of one year. The moderator is charged with directing the business of the judicatory according to the Constitution and Rules of Order of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church.
B. Vice Moderator: The vice moderator shall be elected in the February session to serve a period of one year. The vice moderator shall perform the duties of the moderator during the absence or disability of the moderator or in the case of a vacancy in the office of the moderator, and shall perform such other duties as from time to time may be assigned to the office of the moderator by the presbytery. The vice moderator shall be a member of the Presbytery Council. The moderator and vice moderator should be from opposite ends of the presbytery whenever possible. The vice moderator shall make themselves very familiar with all the details and intricacies of the operations of the boards, committees, and other agencies of the body. It is also intended that the vice moderator should be given first consideration for election as moderator the following year. The Vice Moderator shall be a member of the Presbytery Insurance Committee.
C. The Stated Clerk-Treasurer: The stated clerk-treasurer shall ordinarily be elected at the September meeting of Presbytery to serve for a period of three years, the terms to run concurrently with the calendar year. On the election of a new stated clerk-treasurer, the outgoing stated clerk-treasurer shall continue as an assistant until the February meeting of presbytery. An appropriate honorarium shall be paid to the stated clerk-treasurer. It shall be reviewed annually during the adoption of the presbyterial budget. The outgoing stated clerk-treasurer’s honorarium shall continue through the month of February.
The Stated clerk-treasurer has the responsibility to do the following:
l.
A.
- Reproduce and distribute copies of the minutes, within sixty days after the meetings of presbytery in February and September, to all ordained ministers who are members of the presbytery, licentiates, candidates, members of boards and standing committees, other ordained ministers serving congregations in the presbytery, session clerks of each congregation, and to each congregation (copies of the preliminary minutes equal to the number of representatives it was qualified to send to presbytery);
- Mail a program and copies of all reports to each ordained minister and session clerk ten days prior to each regular session of the presbytery;
- Make financial reports to the Board of Finance prior to their meetings before each regular session of presbytery;
- Serve as an ex-officio member of the Board of Finance;
- Make financial reports to the Presbyterial Council and the Board of Finance prior to each regular session of presbytery; and
- Monitor the time limits on the presentations required from congregations, boards and standing committees during regular sessions of presbytery.
A. Trustees: The Board of Finance shall nominate three persons from its membership for election by the presbytery at the September session to serve as trustees. The trustees shall serve three years in staggered terms to run concurrently with the calendar year. The trustees shall act officially for Trinity Presbytery by signing documents and carrying out other business as directed by presbytery.
B. Engrossing Clerk: The engrossing clerk shall record the minutes of the meetings and perform such other duties as may be assigned by the presbytery. The engrossing clerk shall be elected at the September session for a three-year term to run concurrently with the calendar year, and may or may not be a member of presbytery.
C. Presbyterial Historian: The Presbytery shall elect a Presbyterial Historian. The responsibilities of the Presbyterial Historian shall be:
1. Serve as a liaison between the denomination’s Historical Foundation and congregational heritage committees (or sessions);
2. Collect and preserve materials relating to the history of the presbytery and the denomination including minutes, printed programs, photographs, biographical materials, recorded interviews, etc.
3. Encourage sessions to deposit their non-current session records in the archives at the Historical Foundation in Memphis; and
4. Plan, promote and implement presbytery-wide celebrations in remembrance of important persons and events in the life of the presbytery and the denomination.
IV. Boards and Standing Committees of Presbytery
Each board shall have at least two (ordained) ministers and at least two laypersons. The Committee on Probationers shall have at least five ordained ministers. The membership of all other boards and committees shall contain male and female, layperson and clergy, and representatives from as many different congregations as possible. The members of boards and standing committees shall (unless otherwise stated) be limited to three years. Persons may succeed themselves twice, for a total of not more than nine years of service. One year must lapse before a person is eligible to serve again on the same board or standing committee. The term of office shall run concurrently with the calendar year.
All boards and standing committees have the responsibility to do the following:
- Meet at least once a year;
- Give a copy of their report to the stated clerk-treasurer at least thirty days before each regular session of presbytery; and
- Submit expenses of members for travel to the meetings, sending these to the stated clerk-treasurer and following in all cases the guidelines on travel expenses established by the Presbyterial Council.
- Report the attendance of all members over the last year to the Presbytery Council so the Council may make recommendations to the September session of Presbytery for replacements
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- Presbytery Council: The Presbytery Council shall be responsible for supervising and coordinating the total program of the presbytery, and shall be the agency primarily responsible for long-range planning. The Presbytery Council shall consist of the moderator, vice moderator, stated clerk-treasurer, pastor host for the next regular session of presbytery, chairperson of the Permanent Task Force on Ordained Clergy and chairpersons of boards and standing committees. The authority of the council is that of an executive board and not that of an ecclesiastical commission. Between meetings of the presbytery it may interpret the presbyter’s policy decisions and make necessary program and budget adjustments, but it may not make judicial decisions for the presbytery as an ecclesiastical commission is empowered to do. The council shall be directly responsible to the presbytery.
The Presbytery Council has the responsibility to do the following:
- Review the work of all boards and committees of the presbytery;
- Plan the program and agenda for each session of the presbytery;
- Approve the travel expenses for commissioners to General Assembly, Youth Advisory Delegates to General Assembly, delegates to Mission Synod, and members of all boards and standing committees;
- Designate a place of meeting for the presbytery, when the presbytery has not selected one;
- Cultivate and promote the development and growth of the presbytery both spiritual and material; and
- Engage in study and planning in order to recommend goals, objectives, programs, actions and priorities to the presbytery.
- No one individual, representing a single agency, may serve on the Presbytery Council for a time of more than nine (9) consecutive years.
- Present to the September session of presbytery nominations for all vacancies on all permanent boards and standing committees, as well as the requisite number of delegates to Mission Synod and commissioners to the General Assembly;
- Secure agreement from any person whose name is to be placed in nomination;
- Fill, when directed to do so by the moderator, all vacancies on boards and standing committees that occur through the year with appointees who will serve until the presbytery meets and elects new members; and
- Replace, when directed to do so by the moderator, any member of a board or standing committee who has not attended or provided an excuse for at least fifty percent of the meetings during the year with appointees who will serve until the presbytery meets and elects new members.
B. Board of Missions: The Board of Missions shall consist of nine members, with the presidents of the two regions of Women’s Ministry (Trinity South and Trinity North) as ex officio members.
The Board of Missions has the responsibility to do the following:
- Make recommendations concerning the establishment and dissolution of pastoral relationships so that no ordained minister or probationer shall take charge of a congregation within the bounds of Trinity Presbytery until the Board of Missions has approved the relationship; authority resides with the board to approve the relationship where no questions are raised; otherwise, presbytery shall be called into session prior to the ordained minister or probationer moving to the field.
- Develop and execute a long-range strategy for planting new churches;
- Redevelop established churches that have become weak;
- Develop programs of evangelism and church growth;
- Establish multiple church parishes where appropriate;
- Appoint moderators for congregations not being served by ordained ministers of Trinity Presbytery, in order that such congregations may receive the administration of the sacraments, and such other guidance as might be needed;
- The Chair of the Board of Missions should also serve on the Presbytery Insurance Committee.
- Assist pastoral search committees;
- Aid congregations that are experiencing disharmony, or other serious difficulties, by responding to congregational requests for assistance or, when that is not forthcoming, initiating the intervention in coordination and cooperation with the Permanent Task Force on Ordained Clergy;
- Publicize and promote the mission programs of the General Assembly’s Board of Missions and the mission committee in local congregations, providing those congregations with information concerning missions materials and other resources;
- Serve as a channel of communication between the General Assembly’s Board of Missions and the mission committee in local congregations, providing those congregations with information concerning missions materials and other resources;
- Sponsor seminars, mission fairs and workshops for individual congregations, a cluster of congregations, or the entire presbytery;
- Advise local churches concerning the organization of volunteer work groups for mission projects;
C. Board of Christian Education: The Board of Christian Education shall consist of nine members and has the responsibility to do the following:
- Serve as a liaison between the General Assembly’s Board of Christian Education and the committees on Christian Education in the local congregations, promoting and publicizing the programs of the General Assembly’s board;
- Serve as a resource agency for committees on Christian Education of local congregations concerning such activities as Sunday church school, weekday church school, vacation Bible school, youth and children’s programs and activities, leadership training, church officer training, stewardship education, and all additional systematic study opportunities for children, youth and adults.
- Provide workshops on curriculum materials with critical evaluations of print materials and audio or visual media;
- Aid the General Assembly’s Board of Christian Education in the development of a corps of consultants in Christian Education who will be available for workshops at the presbyterial and congregational levels;
- Plan, promote and implement summer youth camps, youth convocations, events to encourage development and enrichment of worship, marriage enrichment retreats, seminars on the particular problems of singles, special programs for children, and vacation activities for the family which relate to spiritual formation;
- Serve as an advocate for Bethel College within the presbytery;
- Nominate General Assembly Youth Advisory Delegates and alternates to the September session of the Presbytery, ensure that each Youth Advisory Delegate presents a written report at the September meeting of Presbytery;
- Responsible for the training of elders, approved by presbytery, to serve communion in congregations without a pastor in charge.
D. Board of Finance: The Board of Finance shall consist of nine members and its duties shall consist of the following:
- Examine the giving records of all congregations in the presbytery, and consult with those churches who are not meeting their responsibilities beyond their local needs, asking them to show cause for their failure to fully participate in outreach opportunities;
- Encourage full support of the presbytery’s budget and of Our United Outreach by all congregations of the presbytery and hear requests from sessions that seek relief from assigned shares of presbytery budget;
- Invite a representative of each of the presbytery’s board and standing committees requesting funds to attend its annual budget meeting for the purpose of ascertaining the program budget needs of said boards and committee;
- Present the budget to presbytery for approval at its September meeting;
- Solicit gifts for the presbytery and work with the presbytery’s Planned Giving Coordinator to promote estate planning;
- Provide for the auditing of the financial records of the presbytery;
- Plan, publicize and implement seminars and workshops on Christian stewardship and use other available means to encourage good stewardship attitudes and practices among the congregations of the presbytery;
- Serve as the agency responsible for the maintenance of the presbytery’s physical assets, such as property and equipment;
- Nominate three of its members to the presbytery for election as trustees; and
- The Insurance Committee of Trinity Presbytery
1. The Insurance Committee of Trinity Presbytery shall be made up of the following people: Moderator, Vice Moderator, Stated Clerk/Treasurer, Chairperson of the Board of Missions, Chairperson of the Permanent Task Force on Ordained Clergy, and the Chairperson of the Board of Finance and Trustees.
2. The Committee shall meet as necessary, either at the direction of Trinity Presbytery or the call of the Moderator or Stated Clerk.
3. The Committee is responsible for administration of the Presbytery’s insurance program, ensuring that all eligible ministers receive coverage, and deciding any issues not covered by these guidelines.
4. The insurance program of Trinity Presbytery will be funded through a portion of the presbytery apportionment paid by each church. Cost of the program will be included in the presbytery’s budget.
5. Trinity Presbytery will maintain a Health Insurance Reserve Fund equivalent to the cost of three (3) month’s expenses for coverage for emergency situations. This fund will be administered by the Board of Finance of Trinity Presbytery. Notification of fund transfers to be sent to the Insurance Committee.
6. All full-time ministers who are members of Trinity Presbytery, and who work at least 30 hours per week for a Cumberland Presbyterian Church that is apportioned, are to be enrolled in health care coverage and long term disability insurance.
7. Insurance will be provided through the program of the Board of Finance of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church or it will be provided if a minister selects equivalent coverage through a less expensive provider. The Insurance Committee must receive a copy of the insurance policy with the cost breakdown prior to allocation of funds by Trinity Presbytery. The allotted premiums for this coverage will be paid by Trinity Presbytery to the respective congregations.
8. The Presbytery will cover a portion of the cost of a Medicare supplemental insurance policy for all eligible retired ministers (defined to be an ordained minister who is retired from full time active service to a congregation(s) in Trinity Presbytery) of the presbytery and their spouses. The amount of the portion will be determined by the Insurance Committee. If the minister continues to work full time for the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, the Presbytery will cover the full cost of supplemental insurance for the minister and a portion for the spouse at the rate of eligible retired ministers. If a retired minister has full healthcare coverage through another entity, Trinity Presbytery will not provide financial support.
9. Upon written approval from the Committee on Probationers, Licentiates may participate in the Presbytery’s health insurance program. Licentiates who have completed their studies and are eligible for ordination, upon the receipt of an approved call, may continue coverage until such time as they receive a call to full time service. Their situation will be reviewed every six months by the Committee on Probationers and the Insurance Committee.
10. When a pastoral relationship is dissolved at the request of a minister or the relationship has changed due to health issues, the Presbytery will continue to pay for health insurance coverage for a period not to exceed three months (90 days) from the last day the minister receives a salary payment from the church or until the minister secures other employment.
11. When a pastoral relationship must be dissolved by action of the presbytery at the request of the session, the Presbytery will continue to pay for health insurance coverage for a period of up to six months (180 days) from the date of the last salary payment from the church or until the minister secures other employment.
E. Committee on Probationers: The Committee on Probationers shall consist of nine members, five of whom shall be ordained ministers. The committee is charged with the responsibility of oversight, nurture and guidance of probationers.
The Committee on Probationers shall be responsible to do the following:
- Interview all persons considering becoming candidates for the ministry prior to their appearance before the presbytery;
- Use the proper procedures (see Section 6.00 “The Authority of Presbytery over Ministers, Licentiates, and Candidates” of The Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church) for receiving candidates and guiding them in their preparation for licensure and ordination;
- Supervise each probationer’s formal educational preparation; also monitor each probationer’s personal commitment, maturity, mental health, spiritual formation, and social development; encourage psychological testing, counseling or psychotherapy, if needed;
- Ensure that the educational requirement (a degree from a college or university approved by the presbytery) is met before licensure;
- Ensure that the educational requirement (a degree from a graduate school of theology approved by the presbytery) is met before ordination;
- Recommend exceptions to the educational requirements when the probationer meets the constitutional requirement for an exception (see Section 6.202 and Section 6.34 of The Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church);
- Supervise the probationers who have been allowed by the presbytery to take the Program of Alternate Studies (PAS) as an alternate route to ordination;
- Remind the presbytery regularly that exceptions to the educational requirements should not be based on personal preference or inconvenience.
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1. Committee on Judicial Concerns: This committee shall consist of six members and has the responsibility to do the following:
- Study all questions coming before the presbytery by appeal, dissent or protest and advise the presbytery on their legal and constitutional aspects;
- Make rulings on such judicial questions as are referred to it; and
- Review annually the session records of the individual congregations and report its findings and recommendations to the presbytery, applying the following guidelines:
b. The chair of the committee will correspond (by mail, email or phone) with each committee member to verify that the minutes of each church are being received and reviewed.
c. Each committee member will hold the minutes of his/her churches until the next meeting of the committee. At that time, the minutes of the churches of Trinity Presbytery will be submitted to the stated clerk-treasurer to be mailed to the denominational archives at the Historical Foundation in Memphis.
d. The appended form will be used as a check list by committee members.
e. The session clerk of each church is asked to send a copy of the minutes of the Session and a financial report to the person checking the minutes of that church within a week of the approval of the minutes. A year-end financial statement and the budget for the ensuing year should be attached to the last minutes of the year.
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- Permanent Taskforce on Theological and Social Concerns: Permanent Taskforce on Theological and Social Concerns with a membership of six that will be called to meet only when given referrals by the Moderator and/or the Stated Clerk. The Taskforce has the responsibility to do the following:
- Serve as a liaison between the General Assembly’s Commission on Theology and Social Concerns and similar committees (or the sessions) in the local congregations of the presbytery;
- Serve as an advocate in the presbytery for the Cumberland Presbyterian Children’s Home;
- Endeavor to raise the level of consciousness of the people of the presbytery on pressing social issues by printing and distributing copies of original materials, or appropriate materials produced by others, which deal with current social concerns; and
- Sponsor workshops and seminars which deal with its areas of concern, as seems advisable, and publicize and promote such efforts by other agencies of the denomination.
A.PERMANENT TASK FORCE ON ORDAINED CLERGY: The Permanent Task Force on Ordained Clergy shall consist of four ministers and three elders.
This Task Force shall have responsibilities relating to the persons and ministries of the ordained ministers of the presbytery, and it shall make reports to the presbytery. The Task Force on Ordained Clergy had the responsibility to do the following:
- Monitor the freedom of the pulpits in the presbytery, so that neither the session nor the members of the congregation shall be allowed to interfere with an ordained minister’s freedom to preach the Gospel, so long as the preaching is done in a responsible manner;
- Monitor the ministries of the various pastors in the presbytery, so that, when a problem arises which cannot be resolved within the session, the Task Force, in cooperation and coordination with the Board of Missions, will form a committee consisting of four(4) members, two(2) from the Task Force and two(2) from the Board of Missions (the participants being selected by the chairpersons) to visit the session and/or minister and seek to bring about reconciliation. If reconciliation is not possible, report the matter to the presbytery making such recommendations as the Task Force and Board of Missions deems advisable;
- Encourage the ordained ministers of the presbytery to participate in programs of continuing education and, when possible, work with the General Assembly’s Commission on the Ministry and Memphis Theological Seminary to make such programs available;
- Report to the Committee on Discipline (Committee on Judicial Concerns any situations that may call for the disciplining of an ordained minister, using the procedures in Section 3.400 “Specific Procedures for Ministers” of the Rules of Discipline of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church;
- Publicize and promote seminars for ordained ministers and their families dealing with marital problems, marriage enrichment, and coping with the unique problems of the ministerial family;
- Encourage ministers and/or spouses who are having trouble coping to seek professional help; provide information concerning the availability of such help, and when possible, provide financial aid for such services;
- Investigate reports coming to it concerning ordained ministers who flagrantly disregard the provisions of the Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and/or preach and teach doctrines contrary to The Confession of Faith of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church;
- Reception of ministers from other denominations: interview and recommend ordained ministers from other denominations who desire to become ministers in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and make recommendations to the presbytery as to whether or not they should be received; and if received, any conditions that should be attached to their reception; all of this according to Section 6.40 “Recognition of Ordination” in the Constitution of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church;
- Determine if a minister of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church wishing to unite with this presbytery is of such standing as to be accepted by this presbytery prior to their letter being accepted.
- Require annual reports from those ministers who are not serving as pastors in a Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Trinity Presbytery. These reports should be sent to the Stated Clerk by June 1st each year. These reports will be compiled by the Task Force into a formal report to be presented to presbytery at the Fall meeting so that the presbytery may exercise its responsibility to review and approve or disapprove the work of ministers who are not engaged in generally recognized forms of ministry.
- Require annual reports from ministers whose ministry is not under the jurisdiction of the presbytery, so that the presbytery may exercise its responsibility to require that all ministers engage in the work of the church unless honorably retired or excused there from by the presbytery; and
- Annually contacting ministers who are honorably retired, assuring them of the Presbytery’s interest, and keeping the Presbytery informed regarding their status.
- The Chair of the Permanent Taskforce on Ordained Clergy should also serve on the Presbytery Insurance Committee.
V. Representatives to Higher Judicatories
A. Commissioners to General Assembly: Minister commissioners and elder commissioners to the General Assembly, as well as their alternates, shall be elected at the September session of presbytery. Each commissioner who attends General Assembly shall present a written report at the next September session of presbytery. Commissioners shall be paid travel expenses according to guidelines of the Presbytery Council.
B. Youth Advisory Delegates to General Assembly: Youth Advisory Delegates to the General Assembly, nominated by the Board of Christian Education, shall be elected at the September session of presbytery. Each delegate who attends General Assembly shall present a written report at the next September session of presbytery. Delegates shall be paid travel expenses according to the guidelines of the Presbytery Council.
C. Delegates to Mission Synod: Minister delegates and elder delegates to Mission Synod, as well as their alternates shall be elected at the September session of presbytery. Each delegate who attends Mission Synod shall present a written report at the next September session of presbytery. Delegates shall be paid travel expenses according to the guidelines of the Presbytery Council.
Moderators and Meeting Places
A new presbytery was formed by combining Caddo Presbytery and South Texas Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The organization of Trinity Presbytery occurred at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Houston, Texas, on July 6, 1989. The Reverend Lee Scott was Convener and Mrs. Johnnye Rackley served as Clerk until the officers of Trinity Presbytery were elected at this meeting. (VM): Vice Moderator
MODERATOR MEETING PLACE DATE I=Regular I=Called STATED CLERK
Rev. Charles Hughes.................... Houston—First............................... I July 6, 1989................................. Rev.Hugh Parsons
Rev. Charles Hughes.................... Longview—First............................. I September 29-30, 1989................ Rev. Hugh Parsons
Rev. Charles Hughes.................... Nacogdoches—Rock Springs........... I December 2, 1989....................... Rev. Hugh Parsons
Eld. Owen Smith.......................... Austin—First.................................. I February 16-17, 1990.................. Rev. Hugh Parsons
Eld. Owen Smith.......................... Longview—Elmira Chapel............... I June 2, 1990................................ Rev. Hugh Parsons
Eld. Owen Smith.......................... Marshall—Marshall......................... I August 29, 1990.......................... Rev. Hugh Parsons
Eld. Owen Smith.......................... Jefferson—Jefferson........................ I September 28-29, 1990................ Rev. Hugh Parsons
Eld. Owen Smith.......................... Longview—Elmira Chapel............... I October 4, 1990........................... Rev. Hugh Parsons
Rev. Dwayne Tyus...................... Metairie, LA—Faith......................... I February 15-16, 1991.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Dwayne Tyus...................... Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I August 17, 1991.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Dwayne Tyus...................... Austin—Saint Paul.......................... I August 28, 1991.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Dwayne Tyus...................... Austin—Saint Paul.......................... I September 27-28, 1991................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ Longview—Pine Tree...................... I February 21-22, 1992.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ Marshall—Marshall......................... I August 29, 1992.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ San Antonio—Stone Oak................. I September 27-28, 1992................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ Troup—Concord............................. I February 19-20, 1993.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ Austin—Saint Paul.......................... I May 22, 1993.............................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. James Rippy........................ Austin—Shepherd of the Hills.......... I September 24-25, 1993................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Ernest Harris....................... Quitman (LA) Antioch..................... I February 18-19, 1994.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Ernest Harris....................... Bertram—Bertram........................... I September 23-24, 1994................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Gene Cooper........................ Longview—Elmira Chapel............... I February 17, 1995....................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Gene Cooper........................ Austin—Saint Paul.......................... I May 27, 1995.............................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Randy Moody Pro Tem........ Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I August 19, 1995.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Randy Moody ..................... Houston—First............................... I September 29-30, 1995................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Randy Moody ..................... Austin—Saint Paul.......................... I November 11, 1995..................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Randy Moody ..................... Marshall—Marshall......................... I February 16-17, 1996.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Randy Moody ..................... Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I August 17, 1996.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... San Antonio—Northminster September 27-28, 1996.............................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I January 11, 1997......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... Longview—Pine Tree...................... I February 21-22, 1997.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... Longview—Elmira Chapel............... I April 26, 1997............................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I August 23, 1997.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Charles Brown..................... Austin—Hope................................. I September 26-27, 1997................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Kevin Ward......................... Longview—First............................. I February 20-21, 1998.................. Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Kevin Ward......................... Jefferson—Jefferson........................ I September 25, 1998..................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Kevin Ward......................... Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I January 23, 1999......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. David Smith......................... Gilmer—Camp Gilmont................... I March 4-6, 1999.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. David Smith......................... Austin—First.................................. I September 24-25, 1999................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Mark Hunker........................ Troup—Concord............................. I February 18, 2000....................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Mark Hunker........................ Marshall—CPC of Marshall............. I April 8, 2000............................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Mark Hunker........................ Huntsville—First PCUSA................ I August 19, 2000.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Eld. Mark Hunker........................ Winnsboro—Pine Hill..................... I September 29-30, 2000................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. L. E. Muenzler..................... Austin TX-Saint Paul CPC................ I February 16, 2001....................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. L. E. Muenzler..................... Austin, TX-Austin First CPC............ I August 17, 2001.......................... Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. L. E. Muenzler..................... Metairie LA-Faith CPC..................... I September 28-29, 2001................ Eld. Robert L. Knauth
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Stone Oak, Elmira Chapel CPC......... I February 15, March 3, 2002......... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Houston, TX-Houston First CPC....... I September 27-28, 2002................ Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Eld. Roy Cooper.......................... Longview-Elmira Chapel CPC.......... I February 21-22, 2003.................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Eld. Roy Cooper......................... Marshall – CPC of Marshall............. I September 26-27, 2003............... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mark Horner....................... Round Rock – Round Rock PCUSAI February 20, 2004......................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mark Horner....................... Longview-Longview First CPC........ I May 24, 2004.............................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mark Horner....................... Longview -Elmira Chapel CPC......... I July 6, 2004................................ Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mark Horner....................... Austin -Austin First CPC.................. I September 24, 2004.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Wm. Rustenhaven III.......................... Houston-Houston First CPC............. I February 25-26,2005.................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Wm. Rustenhaven III.......................... Marshall-Marshall CPC.................... I June 23, 2005.............................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Wm. Rustenhaven III.......... Longview-Longview First CPC........ I October 7-8, 2005....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Wm. Rustenhaven, III......... San Antonio, Northminster PCUSA.. I November 6, 2005...................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Concord – Concord CPC.................. I February 17, 2006....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Longview – Elmira Chapel CPC....... I June 1, 2006............................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Bertram – Bertram CPC.................... I September 29, 2006.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Pleasant Hill, LA – Progress CPC..... I February 16, 2007....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Longview, TX – Pine Tree CPC....... I June 16, 2007.............................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Longview, TX – Pine Tree CPC....... I September 28, 2007.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... San Antonio, TX – Northminster..... I February 15, 2008....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. David R. Smith................... Austin, TX – Austin First CPC......... I September 26, 2008.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Charles D. Smith................. Longview, TX – Elmira Chapel CPC I February 20, 2009....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Charles D. Smith................. San Antonio, TX – Stone Oak CPC.. I April 26, 2009............................ Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Charles D. Smith................. Huntsville, TX – First Presbyterian.. I August 15, 2009.......................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Charles D. Smith................. Georgetown, TX – Oak Grove CPC.. I September 25, 2009.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Duane Dougherty................ San Antonio, TX – Stone Oak CPC.. I February 19, 2010....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Duane Dougherty................ Jefferson, TX – Jefferson CPC......... I September 25, 2010.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Houston, TX – Nueva Vida CPC...... I February 18, 2011....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Marvin Terrell (VM).......... Longview, TX – Elmira Chapel CPC I March 14, 2011........................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... College Station, TX......................... I May 28, 2011.............................. Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Longview, TX – Longview First CPCI September 23, 2011.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Marvin Terrell................... Concord, TX – Concord CPC........... I February 17, 2012....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Marvin Terrell................... Clarksville, TX – Shiloh CPC........... I September 28, 2012.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Fredy Diaz.......................... Houston TX-Nueva Vida & First CPCI February 15, 2013..................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Fredy Diaz.......................... Round Rock, TX – Round Rock Pres.(R) September 27, 2013................ Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Dr. James Cantey................ Longview, TX – Elmira Chapel........ I February 21, 2014....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Dr. James Cantey................ Antioch, LA – Antioch CPC............. I September 26, 2014.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Dr. James Cantey................ Longview, TX – Elmira Chapel........ I November 15, 2014.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Bertram, TX – Bertram CPC............. I February 20, 2015....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Geoff Knight....................... Marshall, TX – CPC of Marshall...... I September 25, 2015.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick... San Antonio, TX – Stone Oak CPC.. I February 19, 2016....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick... Jefferson, TX – Jefferson CPC......... I September 23, 2016.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Jack Holt............................ Houston, TX – Nueva Vida.............. I February 17, 2017....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Jack Holt............................ Longview, TX – Pine Tree CPC....... I September 29, 2017.................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Elder Jack Holt............................ Huntsville, TX – First Presbyterian.. I January 20, 2017......................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Rev. John Lindsay...................... Freeport, TX – Freeport CPC............ I February 16, 2017....................... Eld. Paula R. Hayes
Cash Funds Management and Endowment Accounts
On deposit with the Board of Stewardship, Foundation and Benefits, Memphis, Tennessee.
Trinity Presbytery – Missions
The initial deposit came from funds of the former Caddo and South Texas presbyteries. Other deposits came from the sale of property within the bounds of Trinity Presbytery. The funds are designated for mission work within Trinity Presbytery.
Trinity Presbytery – Scholarship
This fund established by Caddo Presbytery in 1988. The fund is designated for the paying of tuition and books for those Memphis Theological Seminary and Program of Alternate Studies students under the care of Caddo Presbytery. With the merger of Caddo and South Texas presbyteries, the funds are to be used for college, seminary, and Program of Alternate Studies students who are under the care of Trinity Presbytery.
Trinity Presbytery – Triennium
The Board of Finance and Trustees of Trinity Presbytery recommended, and Presbytery approved, the establishment of this account, with the initial deposit of $1,200.00 (and subsequent years’ allocations) for the purpose of meeting anticipated expenses for the Youth Triennium. The fund was established after the February 1990 meeting of Trinity Presbytery.
Trinity Presbytery – Board of Christian Education
This fund was established with funds from a gift to South Texas Presbytery. The gift was to be used toward the purchase of a campsite. The money was in a certificate of deposit in Austin, Texas until it matured in 1991. The treasurer of Trinity Presbytery was instructed to open this account in the name of the Board of Christian Education.
Trinity Presbytery – Health Insurance Reserve
This fund was opened in January 1993, as directed by Trinity Presbytery at the September 1992 meeting, to meet emergency insurance needs.
Trinity Presbytery – Board of Finance – General Fund
This fund was established in January 1994 as directed by Presbytery in September 1993. The purpose is to better manage Presbytery’s resources.
George E. and Rouine V. Coleman Endowment Fund
This fund was established in September 1976, by South Texas Presbytery, in honor of the Reverend George E. Coleman upon his retirement. The income from the fund was designated to the Memphis Theological Seminary Faculty Salary Fund. Monthly income is sent to the Seminary and the endowment is open to receive other monies.
Trinity Investment Fund– originally 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, capital gains and dividends for the Trinity Church Development Fund. The Board of Finance will manage this fund
Trinity Church Development –originally St. Paul Interest Growth/Income Fund
This fund will receive the interest, capital gains, and dividends 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.
Trinity Presbytery – GA Commissioner’s Fund
This fund was first established in 2006 to reserve $6000 per year for the commissioner expense in attending General Assembly in Japan. It was kept open with a minimal amount of $35.00 and was again used in 2012 to reserve $6000 per year for the commissioner expense in Cali, Colombia. It remains open standing ready to prepare for future General Assembly meetings.
REVIEW OF SESSION RECORDS
The following assignments for the review of Session Records are made for the year 2017.
COMMITTEE MEMBER & ADDRESS CONGREGATION ASSIGNMENTS
Rose Mary Magrill Freeport, Pine Hill, Houston First
203 Pitts Ave.
Marshall, TX 75672
(903) 935-6609
Cathy Bettoney Concord, Daingerfield, Marshall
1149 Ash St.
Clute, TX 77531
(979) 265-7630
Ladd Daniel Shiloh, Elmira Chapel, Austin 1st, Nueva Vida
13023 Taylorcrest
Houston, TX 77079
Gloria Diaz Round Rock, Shepherd of the Hills, Stone Oak, Longview First
2425 Holly Hall #B42
Houston, TX 77054
(832)602-9057
Jack Holt Pine Tree, Bertram, Northminster, Mt. Hope
5039 Hwy. 37 N.
Clarksville, TX 75426
Pat Terrell Antioch, Oak Grove, Jefferson, Progress
5811 Yarbrough Road
Longview, TX 75604
(903) 759-1305
MINUTES OF TRINITY PRESBYTERY
MEETING IN CALLED SESSION
AT
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS
AT 9:00 A.M. SATURDAY, JANUARY 20, 2018
The meeting was called to order by Moderator Jack Holt
A quorum was certified present by Stated Clerk Paula Hayes.
Present were 4 elder delegates and 11 ministers (Appendix B)
Rev. Ray Santillano gave the Constituting Prayer.
The Call was read. (Appendix A)
On motion, Clerk to pay any necessary bills (insurance, taxes, utilities, emergency repairs) to keep the property of the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Austin, Texas protected. The motion was approved.
The Board of Missions is to send a few representatives to visit with Rev. Ron Stevenson and some members of the congregation prior to the Presbytery meeting in February 2018.
The Stated Clerk read the Minutes which were then approved.
There being no further business, on motion the Called Meeting of Trinity Presbytery was adjourned.
The closing prayer was led by Rev. Geoff Knight.
APPENDIX A
10 December 2017
To the Moderator of Trinity Presbytery: We, the undersigned members of Trinity Presbytery, respectfully request that a meeting of presbytery be called for 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at First Presbyterian Church in Huntsville, Texas. (1801 19th Street)
The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss, and act on if necessary, property matters related to the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Austin.
Respectfully,
James M. Cantey, Minister
John Lindsay, Minister
Marvin Terrell, Elmira Chapel, Elder
Marcia Ross, Pine Tree, Elder
In response to the above request, I hereby call the presbytery to meet as above, at the hour and date as set out, and for the purpose herein specified.
Signed:
Jack Holt, Moderator
Paula R. Hayes, Stated Clerk
APPENDIX B
Ministers present: Geoff Knight, Houston First; Ruben Albarracin, Nueva Vida; Gloria Villa Diaz; Fredy Diaz, Houston First; Ray Santillano; James Cantey, Elmira Chapel; Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick, Marshall; Rusty Rustenhaven, Marshall; John Lindsay, Pine Tree; Jack Holt, Shiloh; Mark McNeese
Candidate present: David Montoya, Marshall
Elders present: Harold Hawkins, Concord; Marvin Terrell, Elmira Chapel; Cathy Bettoney, Freeport; Dell Sheftall, Stone Oak
MINUTES OF TRINITY PRESBYTERY
MEETING IN REGULAR SESSION WITH
FIRST CUMBERLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
FREEPORT, TEXAS
AT 1:00 P.M. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2018
Trinity Presbytery of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church met with First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Freeport, Texas, February 16, 2018
Call to Order, Certification of Quorum, Constituting Prayer
Moderator Jack Holt called the meeting to order at 1:00 PM. Stated Clerk Paula Hayes certified a quorum. The Reverend Dr. Rush led in the constituting prayer. The roll showed the following present: 10 delegates; 20 ministers; 1 licentiate. (Appendix A)
Adoption of Program and Agenda
The program and agenda were adopted. (Appendix B)
Devotional
The devotional was presented by the Rev. Dr. James Cantey. The scripture basis was Mark 1:21-28. Rev. Cantey spoke concerning teaching with authority. He referenced a mission trip to Guatemala during which a lay person delivered the message, with Rev. Cantey translating. When preparing that message, it was agreed that what the people of Guatemala really need, and truly what all people need is encouragement and to know they are not alone. The word of God is best spread by those that witness to each other about how their lives have changed since they have accepted Jesus. So, more often than not, taking time during your message for them to witness, you will get more people wanting to do so than there is time. Everybody has a testimony! Understanding the Word of God is not truly accomplished until you are living what it means and sharing that story with others.
If asked, how many would stand and witness in your church?
Electing the Moderator of Trinity Presbytery
Rev. John Lindsay was elected Moderator of Trinity Presbytery for the year 2018 by acclimation.
Moderator Escorted to the Podium
Rev. John Lindsay was escorted to the Podium by the Rev. Dr. Rush, who placed his name in nomination.
Electing the Vice Moderator of Trinity Presbytery
Rev. Dr. Gloria Villa Diaz was elected Vice Moderator of Trinity Presbytery for 2018 by acclimation
Appointment of the Engrossing Clerk and Parliamentarian
Stated Clerk Paula Hayes will serve as Engrossing Clerk. The Rev. Geoff Knight was appointed Parliamentarian.
Recognition of First Time Delegates and Visitors
The following first-time delegates and visitors were recognized. Delegates: Norm Erlandson, Oak Grove; Will Stautman, Northminster; Blake Martin, Concord CPC; Patricia Foster, Elmira Chapel. Visitors: James Webb, Houston First.
Hearing of Excuses
The requests for excuses from the Reverends Walter Hoke, Steve Turner, Harold Bone, Lee Attema, and Leslie Attema were sent to the Permanent Taskforce on Ordained Clergy to be examined.
Welcome and Announcements
The Reverend Dr. Gloria Villa Diaz graciously welcomed presbytery to the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church of Freeport, Texas on behalf of the Session and church members. She also made necessary announcements.
Denominational Representatives are Welcomed and Seated as Advisory Members
The following denominational representatives were welcomed. Rev. Leslie Johnson, Moderator of Mission Synod, member of Red River Presbytery and Rev. Dr. Michael Qualls, Director of PAS, member of West Tennessee Presbytery.
By motion they were also seated as Advisory Members.
Report from Mission Synod
Rev. Leslie Johnson, Moderator, brought greetings from Mission Synod. He visits all four of the stateside presbyteries in Mission Synod and he is seeing many new things that are revitalizing the churches.
Hearing from the Director of PAS
The Rev. Dr. Michael Qualls brought greetings from Memphis Theological Seminary and the PAS program. He has been in the ministry with the Cumberland Presbyterian Church for forty years.
MTS has had some “belt tightening” in the last few years and have lost some staff. However, services are still at a high level and MTS is innovating to bring education to hybrid classes through the internet. Four courses are now offered with an additional 3 to be offered this summer. Hybrid classes keep actual “on campus requirements” to a minimum.
A DmiN in helping and growing churches is beginning this summer also.
Communications
Communications were received as follows:
- Rev. Polacek, Stated Clerk of Nashville Presbytery wrote asking Trinity Presbytery to support the candidacy of Rev. Dr. Jay Earhart-Brown for Moderator of the 188th General Assembly. A motion was made and approved that Trinity heartedly endorse his candidacy.
- Ronald Longmire, Stated Clerk of Presbytery of East Tennessee wrote to inform Trinity Presbytery that the name of Ernest Gillis has been dropped from the roll of ordained ministers.
- Rev. John McCarty wrote to resign from the Committee on Probationers due to health problems. A motion was made to accept, with regret, his resignation from the Committee on Probationers.
- Rev. Fredy Diaz wrote to thank Trinity Presbytery for their support of the Winter Retreat in January and spoke of the growth of the program.
- Lianny Hernandez wrote to thank Trinity Presbytery for supporting her mission trip last December.
Selection of the Recipient of the Presbytery Offering
The Presbytery Offering is to be sent to Broward Education Foundation Victims’ Fund for the families of those killed in the Parkland shooting. The amount of the offering was $ $337.00.
Appointment of the Committee on Resolutions
Moderator Lindsay appointed a resolutions committee composed of Rev. Rusty Rustenhaven, Elder Sam Hamilton and Rev. Ray Santillano.
Report of The Commission to Ordain John Lawson into The Full Work Of The Gospel Ministry And Install Him As Minister Of The First Cumberland Presbyterian Church Of Daingerfield, Texas
The report was received, and, their work being completed, the Commission was dissolved.
Report of the Commission to Mount Hope
Rev. Duane Dougherty presented the report of the Commission to Mount Hope. The report was concurred in.
Report of The Presbyterial Commission to Oversee the Candidacy of Gary Wayne Schwitz
This report was presented to Presbytery by Rev. Dr. James Cantey. The report was concurred in and its recommendation was adopted. The examination of Gary Wayne Schwitz for ordination to the ministry of Word and Sacrament in the Cumberland Presbyterian Church proceeded.
Examination of Gary Wayne Schwitz in Preparation for Ordination
Licentiate Gary Wayne Schwitz was brought before the body and sustained a careful and satisfactory examination in preparation of Ordination. The examination being affirmed, the licentiate Gary Wayne Schwitz was approved for ordination.
Presbytery Appoints a Commission to Ordain Gary Wayne Schwitz
The Commission to ordain Gary Wayne Schwitz was appointed by presbytery: Rev. Mary Kathryn Kirkpatrick; Rev. Don Nunn; Rev. Rusty Rustenhaven; and Elder Randy Kennedy. The Ordination and Installation is to take place on March 11, 2018 at 3:00 PM at the New Journey Cumberland Presbyterian Church. At which time the name of Rev. Gary Wayne Schwitz will be placed on the roll of Trinity Presbytery.
Commission to Oversee the Candidacy of Gary Wayne Schwitz Dissolved
A motion was made to dissolve the commission. The motion was approved and the Commission to Oversee the Candidacy of Gary Wayne Schwitz was dissolved.
Recess In/Recess Out
Recess in at 2:26 PM/ recess out at 2:54 PM
Report of the Board of Christian Education
Rev. Duane Dougherty presented the Report of the Board of Christian Education. The report was concurred in and its recommendation adopted.
Presbytery gives Authority to the Board of Christian Education
By motion, Presbytery gives the Board of Christian Education authority to train an Elder to perform the rites of communion for Jefferson CPC, at such time that Rev. Mark Davenport moves into the Dallas area.
Report of the Board of Finance
James Webb, Chair, presented the report of the Board of Finance. The report was concurred in and its recommendation was opened for discussion. After discussion, the recommendation was approved.
Report of the Committee on Judicial Concerns
Rev. Dr. Gloria Villa Diaz presented the Report of the Committee on Judicial Concerns. The report was concurred in, and its recommendation was adopted.
Report #1 of the Board of Missions
Rev. Geoff Knight, presented the 1st Report of the Board of Missions. The question was divided.
Recommendation 1 was defeated. The remaining recommendations 2-6 were individually approved.
Report #2 of the Board of Missions (Oral Report)
Rev. Geoff Knight continued by orally presenting the 2nd Board of Missions report.
The Board of Missions has examined and approved the pastoral contract between Gary Wayne Schwitz and New Journey CPC. The same commission elected to ordain Gary Wayne Schwitz will also install him as pastor of New Journey Cumberland Presbyterian Church. The service will take place at New Journey in Longview, Texas on March 11, 2018 at 3:00 PM
It was moved to rescind the action of Presbytery taken at the Fall 2017 meeting of Presbytery to dissolve the Pastoral relationship between Rev. Daryl Johnson and Bertram CPC. The motion was approved
A motion was made to dissolve the pastor relationship between Rev. Kevin Colvard and the Stone Oak Cumberland Presbyterian Church. This motion came as a result of various communications, posing questions and expressing thoughts, between the church and Rev. Colvard. The motion passed.
Prayer
A prayer was offered for healing, continued strong faith and peace as Rev. Colvard faces the days and years ahead and the Body also prayed for the continued growth of Stone Oak Church.
Report of the Permanent Taskforce on Ordained Clergy
Rev. Fredy Diaz presented the report of the Permanent Taskforce on Ordained Clergy. The report was received, and its recommendation was adopted. The Rev. Kevin Colvard will be noted as Honorably Retired on the Roll of Trinity Presbytery.
Report of the Presbytery Council
The Report of the Presbytery Council was presented by the Stated Clerk. The report was received, and its recommendations were adopted.
Report of the Stated Clerk/Treasurer
The Report of the Stated Clerk/Treasurer was presented by Stated Clerk Paula Hayes. The report was concurred in.
Report of the Taskforce on Theological & Social Concerns
Rev. Mark McNeese presented the report of the Permanent Taskforce on Theological and Social Concerns. The report was concurred in and its recommendation was approved.
Report #3 of the Board of Missions(Oral Report)
Upon receiving both the letter from the Concord Session and the resignation letter from Rev. Duane Dougherty, Rev. Geoff Knight, moved that the pastoral relationship between Rev. Duane Dougherty and Concord Cumberland Presbyterian Church be dissolved effective July 31, 2018. The motion was approved.
Minutes Read
The minutes, thus far, were read and approved.
Time of Sharing
Time was taken for the representing churches to share some of their programs and activities that have been doing well in their churches and how growth has come as a result of these changes.
Prayer
Rev. Duane Dougherty offered the prayer, thanking God for the blessing of this meeting and asking for the blessing of the food of which we are about to partake.
Recess In
Recess was called in at 6:36 pm.
Worship Service and Communion
The Worship Service began with a music prelude played beautifully on the organ by C. Anthony Pesarra.
Rev. Dr. Gloria Villa Diaz led the congregation in the Call to Worship. Following the unison singing of the hymn “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”, a prayer for illumination was offered by Rev. Dr. Diaz.
The message was delivered by Rev. Fredy Diaz using Mark 1:9-15. Repentance is the topic of this sermon and Rev. Diaz approaches it from various sides, but the one that seemed to speak loudest was when he pointed out that Repentance, as presented in the Bible, implies motion or movement. It means not only to turn around from doing wrong, or just not doing what is known to be right, but it also means to move toward the triune God. It means to not only ask for forgiveness for moving away from the Lord, but also to move more toward Him and His teachings.
The Lord’s Supper was celebrated.
The worship service was ended by the unison singing of “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” and a benediction given by Rev. Dr. Diaz.
Recess Out
Recess was declared out at 7:45 PM
Moderator Assumes the Podium
Moderator Lindsay once again takes the podium and resumes the business of Presbytery.
Report of the Committee on Resolutions
Rev. Rusty Rustenhaven read the report of the Committee on Resolutions. The report was concurred in.
Presbytery Minutes Read
The remaining minutes were read by the Stated Clerk and, on motion, were approved.
Meeting Adjourned
Moderator Lindsay moved that Presbytery stand adjourned to meet at New Journey CPC, Longview, Texas on September 28, 2018 at 1:00 pm. The motion was passed.
Closing Prayer
The closing prayer was given by Moderator John Lindsay
APPENDIX A
Rolls of Congregations, Ministers and Candidates