Presbytery of New Covenant Stated Meeting March 19, 2022
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Presbytery of New Covenant
Stated Meeting
March 19, 2022
1
Page
Table of Contents
Table of Motions/Omnibus Motion 3-4
Preaching Today/Offering 4
Docket 5-10
Necrology 11-14
Church Anniversaries/Ordination Anniversaries 15-16
Report of the Stated Clerk for Administrative Process 17-28
Report of the Stated Clerk for Judicial Process 29
General Council 30-49
Ecclesiastical Affairs 50-54
Evangelism and Church Growth 55-57
Finance 58-60
Personnel 61
Committee on Ministry 62-76
Committee on Preparation for Ministry/Nominations 77-78
Congregational Resourcing Team/Outreach 79-83
Acknowledgment of Native Lands and Peoples
We begin this gathering by recognizing that the land upon which we meet is the location of the
ancestral homelands of many different nations, which include Alabama Coushatta, Anadarko, Biloxi,
Caddo, Chickasaw, Karankawa, Kichai, Pankana Muskogee, Shawnee, Tawakoni, and Tonkawa, as well as
our Hispanic neighbors to our south. We recognize that the much of the state of Texas belonged to
Mexico.
We declare our respect for these children of God and our desire to honor them and the truth of
their lives and their history, our shared history including the broken promises and other sins for
which the dominant culture must repent. We affirm our responsibility to those who are still here,
sometimes unseen, and we look for opportunities for true reconciliation, which we acknowledge
will involve further action by, and change for, those in the dominant culture. Among our
2
transgressions are the harmful stereotypes created for our entertainment.
Page
We honor our Native siblings and seek to work for healing and justice that is truly “for all.”
Table of Motions/Omnibus Motion
OMNIBUS: To approve the minutes from the November 20, 2021 Stated Meeting of the Presbytery of
New Covenant.
SC4AP: 1. To dissolve St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Texas effective December 31, 2021,
upon request of the congregation.
2. To dissolve University Presbyterian Church, Houston, effective December 31, 2021. The church
ceased activity several years ago, and the property was transferred to the Presbytery of New Covenant.
3. To dismiss the congregation of Tiki Island Chapel to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church effective
March 19, 2022. The congregation has paid the Presbytery of New Covenant the sum of $9056.34 along
with an agreement to settle the litigation filed against the presbytery.
GC: To approve the Synod of the Sun Partnership for Disaster Recovery.
EAC: To approve the overture from the Woodlands Community Church.
ECG: To concur with the overture from San Fernando Presbytery.
COM: Recommendations from the Committee
1. From the February 1, 2022 meeting of COM: the Committee on Ministry, being satisfied
that the Pastor Nominating Committee of Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church has made a
full and thorough search, recommends and moves that Presbytery approve the eligibility
of Rev Tyler Henderson to serve as the next installed pastor of Grand Lakes Presbyterian
Church.
This call will fall under G02.0504c. Exceptions (to an associate pastor being called as the
next pastor): A presbytery may determine that its mission strategy permits a minister of
the Word and Sacrament currently called as an Associate Pastor to be eligible to serve as
the next installed pastor or co-pastor, or a minister of the Word and Sacrament
employed in a temporary pastoral relationship to be eligible to serve as the next installed
pastor, co-pastor, or associate pastor. Presbyteries that permit this eligibility shall
establish such relationships only by a three-fourths vote of the members of presbytery
present and voting.
2. From the March 1, 2022 meeting of COM: The Committee on Ministry being satisfied of
her training, experience, and examination, recommends and moves that Presbytery
commission Ruling Elder Nancy Diaz as a Commissioned Ruling Elder for San Pablo +
Trinity Presbyterian Church, effective May 1, 2022, for an initial period of one (1) year.
COM further recommends and moves that Presbytery grant Nancy Diaz the following
powers: To have voice and vote at presbytery meetings, To preside at the Lord’s Supper
when needed, To moderate Session when needed and To perform marriages when
assistance is needed. (San Pablo + Trinity is served by the Rev. Greg Davis, one of our bi-
3
vocational pastors.) (Statement of Faith follows report)
Page
CPM: To elect Bill Hargrove to serve as a reader of ordination examinations for 2022.
Finance: To approve the presbytery budget for 2022.
Nominations: To approve the slate of nominees to serve on committees of the presbytery.
Preaching Today
We welcome Rev. Renee Rico to our presbytery
meeting today. Renée confesses to be both excited
and challenged by the opportunities of ministry in
these pandemic times in the church. Renée began
her “accidental intentional interim” ministry career
straight out of seminary, serving in Presbyterian
churches across the West as interim solo, head of
staff and associate pastor positions, as well as in
United Methodist congregations. Now in her 11th
interim position, she currently serves as Interim
Senior Pastor at Trinity Presbyterian Church in San
Carlos, CA. She has served on and led faculty teams
for education events on The Art of Transitional Ministry for the PCUSA since 2002. Outside of
church, Renée has many interests, including a love of Mexican food, knitting (she teaches and
designs her own line of patterns) and fiber spinning. Her cat, Brandy, is her companion at home.
Today’s Offering – World Central Kitchen – https://wck.org/
Those fleeing the violence in Ukraine could spend days traveling before they're able to reach safety.
That's why famed chef José Andrés, through his nonprofit World Central Kitchen, quickly set up facilities
across the country to provide meals for people fleeing the war. They were on the ground in Ukraine one
day after the Russian invasion. "Why we are so quick? Because we don't plan. We don't meet. We
come, and we begin cooking," Andrés told NPR's Michel Martin.
The nonprofit, which partnered with restaurants in the country, is serving food at hundreds of locations
in 12 Ukrainian cities, he said. It also has sites in Poland, Hungary, Romania and Slovakia for refugees
who crossed the border to safety. "At least, feeding people is what makes sense. Longer tables, people
working together to make sure that one plate of food at a time we can bring hope of a better
tomorrow," he added.
https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-
bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?appver3=wWsk24ZWJSTZKsGd1RMKlg0BDvsSG3VIWQCPJNNxD8upkiY7JlDavDsozUE7KG0nFx
4
2NSo8LdUKGuGuF396vbYYQgidYztGbT9EdrKodrraXHubq5Z7ap5JVmPErc4ZeYHCKCZhESjGNQmZ5B-
Page
6dx3oXnCsieUfVboVDTFG9w_s=&ver=3
The Docket for Our Worshipful Work
March 19, 2022
Welcome and Call to Order George James, Moderator
Call to Worship
The heavens declare the glory of God.
The firmament proclaims God’s handiwork.
The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
The world and those who live in it.
God has founded it on the seas,
And established it on the rivers.
Opening Prayer
God of creation, we give thanks for the goodness of the earth that you made and sustain. Our
voices join in praise with all creation: with the sea that roars, the trees that clap their hands,
and the birds that sing in joy. Unite us by your Spirit, that we may be signs of your abundant
mercy and live in thanksgiving for your grace, as we wait for the completion of your creation in
Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray. Amen.
Opening Song, “Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness” Rev. John Hirling
*Opening Business George James
Declaration of a Quorum, Omnibus Motion, Introduction of New Minister Members
* Report of the Stated Clerk for Administrative Process Rev. Lynn Hargrove
To dissolve St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Texas effective December 31, 2021, upon
request of the congregation.
To dissolve University Presbyterian Church, Houston, effective December 31, 2021. The church
ceased activity several years ago, and the property was transferred to the Presbytery of New
Covenant.
To dismiss the congregation of Tiki Island Chapel to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church effective
March 19, 2022. The congregation has paid the Presbytery of New Covenant the sum of
$9056.34 along with an agreement to settle the litigation filed against the presbytery.
5
Page
*General Council Rev. Ted Foote
To approve the Synod of the Sun Partnership for Disaster Recovery.
*Ecclesiastical Affairs Committee Rev. Andy Gans
To approve the overture from the Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church.
*Evangelism & Church Growth Rev. Fred Seay
To concur with the overture from San Fernando Presbytery.
Prayer of Confession
Beloved, we are made in the divine image, and God called us good. Yet we go our own way,
causing harm to ourselves, to one another, and to the planet. Confident in the mercy of the One
who made us and saved us, let us confess our sin to God and to another.
God of life, You created us in your image to care for one another and for all creation. Forgive
us for turning away from you, ignoring the needs of our neighbors and the cries of the earth.
As the sun brings light and warmth to this earth, make us sings of your grace, through Christ,
our light and life, we pray. And hear us as we confess in the silence …
Assurance of Grace
Know that you are forgiven, and be at peace as you share that blessing with others and care for
this good earth, that all creation may declare God’s glory.
In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven. Make us agents of your healing for the good of your creation.
Thanks be to God!
Sermon, “Living in Liminal Times: Some perspectives from Transitional Ministry” Rev. Renee Rico
Sermon Response Breakout Rooms
*Committee on Ministry Actions RE Greg Feigh
6
To approve the call between Katy, Grand Lakes and Rev. Tyler Henderson (3/4 vote req.).
Page
To approve the commissioning of RE Nancy Diaz to service at Houston, San Pablo + Trinity.
Service of Commissioning
Board of Pensions Update Rev. Kevin Keaton
*Committee on Preparation for Ministry Actions TE Kristy Forbes Vits
To approve RE Bill Hargrove to serve as a reader of ordination examinations for 2022.
*Finance
To approve the presbytery budget for 2022.
Celebration of Ministry – SCRAPCE RE Connie Nyquist
Offering – to show our support for relief efforts involving Ukraine through World Central Kitchen
Celebration of Ministry – Solar Under the Sun TE Elizabeth Brinegar
Prayers of Thanksgiving and Intercession, and The Lord’s Prayer
God of the cosmos, your love reached beyond space and time. We are astonished at your vast creation
– innumerable galaxies surrounded by dark matter, elegant structure and staggering variety, the pull of
gravity and the speed of light –all showing your wisdom and glory, O God! We are dust and stardust,
made in your image. We are part of the creation you are making new. Let our awe increase, like your
ever-expanding universe, until we find ourselves lost in wonder, love, and praise through Jesus Christ,
the Alpha and Omega who taught us to pray: Our Father, who art in heaven; hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And
forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from
evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
Remembering those who died in 2021 - Necrology
*Nominations Rev. Helen DeLeon
Service of Commissioning for 225th General Assembly
The Communion Rev. Andy Gans
Communion Song, “A New Hallelujah” Spring Branch Singers
7
Benediction and Adjournment George James
Page
Page 8
Page 9
A New Hallelujah by Smith and Baloche
Can you hear,
There’s a new song
Breaking out from
The children of freedom
Every race and every nation
Sing it out,
Sing a new Hallelujah
Let us sing
Love to the nations
Bringing hope of the grace
That has freed us
Make Him known
And make Him famous
Sing it out
Sing the new Hallelujah
[Chorus]
Arise!
Let the church arise
Let love, reach to the other side
Alive! come alive!
Let the song arise
Africa sings a new song
Reaching out
With the new Hallelujah
Every son and every daughter
Everyone sing a new Hallelujah
Arise!
Let the church arise
Let love, reach to the other side
Alive! come alive!
Let the song arise
Whoa, whoa, whoa,
Whoa, yeah
{Let the song arise,
Arise!
Let the church arise
Let love, reach to the other side
Alive! come alive!
10
Let the song arise
Everyone sing a new Hallelujah
Page
Everyone sing a new HallelujahNecrology for 2021
Ministers of Word and Sacrament
Helen P Bailey February 6, 2021
David Lee Goodall October 14, 2021
Jack G Kennon June 21, 2021
Dean Pogue March 10, 2021
Bruce Williams October 24, 2021
Elders, Deacons and Trustees
Atascocita Julie Arnold March 5, 2021
Nina Clary April 1, 2021
Jan DeLargey December 10, 2021
Bay City, First Richard Knapik October 14, 2021
Bellaire, ChristChurch Mary Montague February 22, 2021
Mary Helen Needham March 28, 2021
Ernest Anane-Sekyere July 23, 2021
Rockwell Hibbard August 4, 2021
Brazoria, First Donald Wilson January 18, 2021
Myrtie Logsdon February 23, 2021
11
Tommy Badders August 5, 2021
PageCaldwell, First Laurie Garrett June 18, 2021
Conroe, First Michael E. Garrison April 1, 2021
Crockett, First Joe Ainsworth January 24, 2021
Henry “Hank” Robinson December 9, 2021
Houston, Clear Lake Tony Billingsley April 7, 2021
Mark Geyer December 7, 2021
Steph Greenstein November 24, 2021
Joanne Hayes November27, 2021
Barbara Larrabee March 5, 2021
Kathy Wiley March 21, 2021
Houston, Northwoods Sylvia Washer July 4, 2021
Bob Kimball March 11, 2021
Barbara Millette March 19, 2021
Betty Anne Schauer March 19, 2021
Colleen Hosford September 8, 2021
Betty DeJarnett December 24, 2021
12
Houston, Oaks Jeannine Cunningham October 8, 2021
PageHouston, Pines Susan Schroeder February 21, 2021
Tracy Allison March 11, 2021
Janice Pannell June 15, 2021
Nancy Robinson July 15, 2021
Georgette Person July 26, 2021
Houston, St. Philip Van Rathgeber, Sr. January 24, 2021
Alice Pennington March 13, 2021
Penny Vieau March 23, 2021
Travis Calhoun June 10, 2021
Harry Todd June 26, 2021
Sue Baier August 19, 2021
Douglass Simmons October 18, 2021
Katy, New Hope Henry “Hub” Giles May 9, 2021
Russell Hamm June 4, 2021
Robert Radke October 10, 2021
Orange, First Billie Colburn January 17, 2021
Betty Hyatt Lundquist October 13, 2021
Dickie Colburn October 27, 2021
Charlotte Hale October 29, 2021
13
Page
Ricky Hargrove November 21, 2021Silsbee, First Bonnie Cone July 1, 2021
Texas City, Memorial First Beverly Churchwell March 5, 2021
Trinity, First Mason Nevill July 21, 2021
Don West October 31, 2021
Vidor, First Bill Peterson
Webster, Webster Bettycross Whigham February 24, 2021
Sandra McAff March 20, 2021
Melissa Ferguson June 7, 2021
Dave Armstrong August 6, 2021
William “Billy” Chase September 13, 2021
Norma Lou Fox October 8, 2021
Bill Knowles December 20, 2021
14
PageOrdination Anniversaries
Carroll Pickett 65 years Andrew Adair 30 years
Robert Covington 60 years Deborah Bogar 30 years
Will Stambaugh 60 years Belinda Koenig 30 years
Suk In Kin 55 years Steve Oglesbee 30 years
Joseph Kho 50 years Hector Rivera-Velez 30 years
C.O. Magee 50 years Christena Alcorn 25 years
David Peterson 50 years Debbie Leo 25 years
Robert Vagt 50 years Cassandra Dahnke 20 years
John “Bill” Wade 50 years Lynn Hargrove 20 years
Walter Westcott 50 years Peter Lee 20 years
John Wheeler-Waddell 50 years Jeff Smith 20 years
Thomas Atkins 45 years Emilee Whitehurst 20 years
Andy Dearman 45 years Candee Callie 15 years
Raymond Feyes 45 years Linda Sharon 15 years
Shun Chi Wang 45 years Tracy Williams 15 years
Kevin Keaton 40 years Mark Plunkett 10 years
Charlotte Kibler 40 years Barbara Retzloff 10 years
Pam Morgan 40 years Isabel Rivera-Velez 10 years
Rick Myers 40 years Omar Rouchon 5 years
Kevin Boyd 35 years
Gayle Grubbs 35 years
Gerald McKenny 35 years
15
Drew Tomberlin 35 years
PageChurch Anniversaries
First, Bryan 155 years
Brenham, Brenham 145 years
Gulf Prairie, Jones Creek 145 years
First, Livingston 140 years
First, Alvin 130 years
First, Sealy 120 years
First, Wharton 120 years
First, Rosenberg 110 years
First, Sugar Land 105 years
Faith, Baytown 100 years
Bethel, Angleton 95 years
First, Vidor 70 years
St. Luke’s, Houston 70 years
Spring Branch, Houston 70 years
St. Stephen, Houston 65 years
Olive Branch, Conroe (formerly Timber Ridge) 55 years
Northwoods, Houston 50 years
Formosan, Houston 45 years
Christ, Houston 40 years
First Lao, Houston 30 years
16
PageReport of the Stated Clerk for Administrative Process
For Action by the Presbytery:
1. To dissolve the congregation of St. Luke’s in Cleveland, TX effective December 31, 2021, at the request
of the congregation.
2. To dissolve the congregation of University in Houston effective December 31, 2021. The congregation
has not been active for many years.
3. To dismiss the congregation of Tiki Island Chapel to the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.
NOTE: The congregation voted to be dismissed at a meeting on November14, 2021. The Presbytery of
New Covenant was served with a lawsuit on November 15, 2021. The lawsuit was dismissed under the
condition that the presbytery would approve the dismissal, and that the congregation would pay the
funds outlined in the Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Policy in the amount of $9.056.34. The
settlement document is found on pages 19-27.
For Information:
All but one of our congregations completed their Annual Statistical Report. The presbytery totals are on page 28
Thank you to the Clerks of Session for reporting their membership information!
17
PagePage 18
Page 19
Page 20
Page 21
Page 22
Page 23
Page 24
Page 25
Page 26
Page 27
Page 28
Stated Clerk for Judicial Process
1. The current roster of the Permanent Judicial Commission (PJC) is as follows:
a. Class of 2022: Teaching Elder David R. Brewer and Ruling Elder Forrest Craig.
b. Class of 2024: Ruling Elder Fred Cook and Teaching Elder Guinn Blackwell-Eagleson
c. Class of 2026: Teaching Elder Gordon Blackman, Teaching Elder Nora Fitch, Ruling Elder Bill
Morris, Ruling Elder Kevin Murphy, and Ruling Elder Bruce Partain
2. Resignations from the PJC in 2021:
a. Linda McCarty (Class of 2022) resigned, effective 10/27/2021, due to a transfer of membership
out of the presbytery.
b. Belinda Koenig (Class of 2024) resigned, effective 12/16/2021, due to health concerns.
3. Remedial Case 2020-02 Ronald Stenzel v. Session of Pines Presbyterian Church:
Trial is set for Saturday April 23, 2022, beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the offices of the presbytery, 4803 San
Felipe, Houston, TX 77056. The eligible PJC members serving on this case include all of the Class of
2026, plus Teaching Elder Shun-Chi Wang from the Class of 2018 who was enlisted in accordance with
Book of Order D-5.0206b to assure a quorum.
29
PageGeneral Council
1. For action by the presbytery: To approve the Covenant Agreement of the Synod of the Sun Partnership
for Disaster Recovery. NOTE: The funding of $30,000 for the position can come from monies that are in
the presbytery’s Disaster Recovery Coordinator and Disaster Recovery accounts so that this will not
impact the presbytery budget.
2. Actions taken on behalf of the presbytery:
a. Regarding the dismissal of Tiki Island Chapel: The General Council of the Presbytery of New
Covenant desires Tiki Island Chapel to abide by the financial implications of dismissal according to
the presbytery’s Gracious Reconciliation and Dismissal Procedure of 2015. An additional motion was
approved to recognize that Fred Cook (Bellaire, ChristChurch) is not authorized to serve as legal
counsel for the presbytery. He did accompany Lynn Hargrove to a court hearing.
b. Approval of a $100,000 loan to Houston, St. John through the Presbyterian Investment and Loan
Program, to be repaid over a fifteen-year term. This is a conversion of a line of credit into a loan.
c. To approve all of the applications made for the 2021 Technology Grants up to a cap of $5000. The
list of recipients is included in the meeting materials.
d. Approved that the Presbytery of New Covenant’s General Council, by this continuing resolution,
authorize payment in 2022 of ordinary budgetary expenditures for salaries, insurance, rent, utilities,
etc, at 2021 approved fiscal levels until such time as a budget is adopted for 2022.
e. Appointed a Task Group for writing new Mission and Vision statements. Members of the group are
Rev. Michael Gable (Angleton, First), RE Michael McCracken (Lufkin, First), and Rev Kallie Pitcock
(Nacogdoches, Westminster). They will complete the work begun in 2021.
f. Approved a Resolution denouncing recent threats and hatred against Historically Black Colleges and
Universities (HBCU’s). Note: The Presbytery of South Louisiana approved a similar resolution. Our
resolution is included in the meeting materials.
Members of the General Council are:
2022: Rev. Kallie Pitcock (Nacogdoches, Westminster), RE Youn He Shin (Houston, Pathways), RE Ken Telg
(Bryan, First)
2023: RE Jay Bole (Bellaire, ChristChurch), RE Michael McCracken (Lufkin, First), Rev. Emilee Whitehurst (At
Large)
2024: RE Ron Everett (Beaumont, St. Andrews), Rev. Michael Gable (Angleton, First), Rev. Tyler Henderson
(Katy, Grand Lakes)
30
By Virtue of Office: Rev. Ted Foote (Bryan, First), RE George James (Webster), Rev. Becky Downs (Houston, John
Knox), RE Ed Brasher (Sugar Land, First), RE Greg Feigh (Houston, Pathways), RE Bonnie Moore (Houston, St.
Page
Philip)Page 31
Page 32
Page 33
Page 34
Page 35
Page 36
Page 37
Page 38
Page 39
Page 40
Page 41
Page 42
Page 43
Resolution of the General Council made on behalf of The Presbytery of New Covenant
The General Council of the Presbytery of New Covenant denounces the threats and hatred against
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) including Prairie View A&M University and
Texas Southern University.
Recently there has been a rising increase of bomb threats against HBCUs motivated by hate and
superiority.
We therefore call upon people of faith to speak out against violence and hatred of others.
We denounce and reject any form of racism, terrorism, hatred, violence, ethnic bias, and
targeting of minority colleges.
HBCUs have fought for the same liberties as others to educate students who have chosen to
pursue an education at their colleges and universities.
African American students and students of other cultures who attend HBCU’s have a God given
right to higher education.
Genesis 1:27 provides us with an equality clause that tells us that all people are created in the
image God. Therefore, any attempt to destroy or eliminate HBCU’s through hatred and racism
goes against the design of a loving God.
Finally, John 13:34 provides us with the command to love one another as Christ loves us, which
dispels all forms racism, terrorism, hatred, violence, ethnic bias, and superiority thinking.
Therefore, we ask that our Christian siblings to join us in denouncing and acting against all forms of
hatred and racism.
On Prairie View A&M University (2022)
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/education/article/Prairie-View-A-M-one-of-
seven-HBCUs-to-receive-16751169.php
On Texas Southern University (2018)
https://news.yahoo.com/texas-southern-university-cancels-classes-bomb-threat-
214835321.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall
From national news:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/us/hbcu-bomb-threats.html 44
PageTechnology Grant Recipients
Thanks to the generosity of the Finance Committee, the General Council was offered 40% of the income from the Building
Sale restricted account to be used annually for Ministry and Mission. In 2021, grants were offered to upgrade technology
used in our congregations.
Alvin, First 5000 Houston, St. Stephen 5000
Atascocita 4955 Houston, St. Thomas 5000
Baytown, Faith 2196 Houston, UCM-GH 600
Beaumont, St. Andrew’s 5000 Houston, Young Nak 4230.25
Brazoria, First 2366.99 Katy, New Hope 4966.98
Brenham 5000 Katy, New Life 4000
Dickinson, First 5000 Katy, Korean Grand Lakes 5000
Houston, Formosan 5000 Lufkin, First 5000
Houston, Heritage 4950 Nacogdoches, Westminster 5000
Houston, Hope of the Nations 1874 Needville, St. Paul’s 3844
Houston. John Knox 4100 Orange, First 5000
Houston, Northwoods 5000 Pasadena, First 2217.98
Houston, Oaks 5000 Pearland, First 5000
Houston, Pathways 2240 Silsbee, First 4076.69
Houston, Pinecrest 5000 Sugar Land, First 3327.97
Houston, Redeemer 5000 Texas City, Mem1 5000
Houston, San Pablo+ Trinity 5000 Tomball, First 3047
Houston, Servant Savior 4996 Trinity, First 4000
Houston, St. Andrew's 3149.5 Waverly 3147
Houston, St. John’s 5000 Webster 5000
Houston, St. Luke’s 5000 TOTAL 178285.4
Houston, St. Paul 5000
45
PagePage 46
Page 47
Page 48
Page 49
Ecclesiastical Affairs Committee
Motion: To approve the overture from the Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church to be included as
business for the 225th General Assembly.
THE TIME IS NOW TO “CHERISH CREATION, CUT CARBON, AND SPEAK UP”
The Session of Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church requests The Presbytery of New Covenant
to overture the 225th General Assembly (2022) of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to commit
ourselves as a church, a people of faith and a social organization embodying Christian values, to:
1) repent of our participation and growing complicity in the processes which have brought our
planetary ecosystem to the tipping point of unsustainability for humans, and mass extinction of other
species;
2) advocate through all PC(USA) channels for the implementation of the Carbon Dividend Overture 08-
12, approved by over 80% of Commissioners in 2018 and encourage our government to pursue other
economic strategies for incorporating “externalized” environmental costs into pricing of all goods and
services;
3) direct the Board of Pensions and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Foundation to increase
investment in low-carbon-emission renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy storage in ways
that complement policies to transition workers in our present fossil fuel industry into “green” and
sustainable energy sector employment;
4) encourage all PC(USA) members and congregations to study the various documents produced by the
General Assembly over the past 30 years, including the most recent (2022) Advisory Committee on
Social Witness Policy (ACSWP) “Investing in a Green Future: A Vision for a Renewed Creation”
document, scripture and other related overtures such as:
[OVT-015]: On Creating the Presbyterian Tree Fund https://www.pc-biz.org/#/search/3000854
[OVT-016]: On Reducing the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Carbon Imprint—From the Presbytery of Des
Moines https://www.pc-biz.org/#/search/3000855
[OVT-027]: On Affirming the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (Paris
Agreement) https://www.pc-biz.org/#/search/3000869
50
5) urge our congregations and members to become the needed, faithful change we seek by being
carbon neutral, net-zero, or even climate positive by 2030; encourage congregations with historic or
Page
landmark buildings to retrofit their structures to the furthest extent possible; implore all PCUSA-related educational institutions (secondary schools, colleges, universities, and seminaries [i]) and
individual members to do the same with their homes and facilities;
6) advocate through our Office of Public Witness (Washington), United Nations and other
denominational offices for national and international accountability around financial obligations and
commitments under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Paris
Agreement (https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/english_paris_agreement.pdf), including the pledges
made to assist economically developing and emerging countries* with carbon use mitigation and
adaptation;
7) advocate through these same channels for climate justice** based in national and international
commitments to assist economically developing and emerging countries with recovery from the loss
and damage resulting from industrialized countries’ disproportionate impact on climate change
(aka,“climate debt”), as a new and proactive stewardship of the earth;
8) direct the Presbyterian office at the United Nations, Presbyterian Hunger Program staff and our
church’s Office of Public Witness (Washington office) to develop a 10-year strategy of accompaniment
and advocacy before, during and after the annual Conference of the Parties (COP)s to the UNFCCC,
utilizing to the extent practicable, our deployed staff and colleagues at World Communion of Reformed
Churches (WCRC) and World Council of Churches (WCC); and work cooperatively with former staff and
volunteers to the extent possible to provide continuity across the years and in collaboration with
voluntary organizations such as Presbyterians for Earth Care to provide updates and make
recommendations consistent with our social witness policy.
Rationale:
Presbyterians have pioneered in the recognition of climate challenges and in environmental theology,
going back to the 1960’s and including major policy statements in 1981 (of both churches, pre-
reunion), 1990, and 2008. These statements have drawn on a more faithful reading of scripture.
“The fundamental mandate for creation care comes from Genesis 2:15, where God places Adam in the
garden to ‘till it and keep it’ (NRSV). A better translation from the Hebrew is ‘to serve it and to preserve
it.’ In Genesis 1:26-28, God blesses humankind with dominion over the earth. This acknowledgement
that humanity is the most powerful species on earth does not, however, give license to dominate and
exploit the planet. Indeed, the following verses affirm the right of animals to share in the bounty of the
earth’s produce (Gen. 1:29-30). Human ‘dominion’ as intended in Genesis is best practiced in care for
creation, in stewardship, which according to Genesis Noah fulfills best by implementing God’s first
endangered species act. Moreover, the great creation psalm of the Psalter views humanity as one
51
species among many animal species, all meant to flourish together (Psalm 104:14-23). The psalmist
Page
exclaims, ‘O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full ofyour creatures’ (v. 24). Scripture affirms that God created the world in wisdom and out of love, and it is
also out of love for the world that God gave Christ to redeem it (John 3:16). In Christ ‘all things hold
together’ (Colossians 1:17), and ‘every creature under heaven’ is to receive God’s good news (v. 23).
According to Revelation, God’s work in the world is to ‘make all things new’ (21:5), to bring about a
new creation that does not destroy the old but transforms it, renews it. If the church is the sign of the
new creation, then the church must lead the way in caring for creation.” - Quote from the 2016
Overture to the 222nd General Assembly on Amending G-1.0304, “The Ministry of Members,” by Adding “Caring
for God’s Creation” that was approved by GA and 104 Presbyteries] contributed by Dr. William P. Brown, William
Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary
As Presbyterians, we aspire to live into these teachings as well as the words of Jesus in the Gospel of
Matthew (25:40,45) regarding our call to care for “the least of these,” our brothers and sisters, in all
their diversity, whose well-being is so intertwined with and dependent upon a healthy ecosystem.
Because of these values we are called to heed the report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Change (IPCC) [ii] This research organization has issued six “assessment” reports over the last 33 years
since its founding in 1988 focusing on the interaction of human activity and our world’s warming
atmosphere and changing climate. Their most recent report since 2015, issued in August of 2021, was
compiled and agreed to by 234 authors from 65 countries. It states that “it is unequivocal that human
influence has warmed the atmosphere, ocean and land.”
This “human influence” is, to a preponderant extent, due to the use of fossil fuels by the industrialized
countries during the last 50+ years. In this period, “greenhouse” gas emissions have increased to their
highest levels in over 2 million years, increasing global average surface temperatures almost 1.2
degrees Celsius over pre-industrial levels. Global surface temperature has increased faster since 1970
than in any other 50-year period over at least the last 2000 years and global surface temperature is the
highest in over 100,000 years. Optimistically, we are looking at a current trajectory of around a 1.8
degree increase by 2050, no matter how quickly we act [iii].
Sea level has risen faster since 1900 than over any preceding century in at least the last 3000 years and
will be irreversible for millennia to come. Acidification of the oceans due to absorption of carbon
dioxide over the last 50 years is unprecedented in at least 2 million years. It is virtually certain that hot
extremes (including heatwaves) have become more frequent and more intense since the 1950s, while
cold extremes (including cold waves) have become less frequent and less severe. These climatic
changes have already caused super-sized floods, droughts, fires, hurricanes/cyclones, species loss and
other effects across the U.S. and globe. Climate and agricultural zones have shifted poleward and all
seasons are growing hotter. Humans are already driving the sixth mass extinction event, destroying
ecosystems upon which we depend and eliminating countless species from the planet forever.
52
PageThe global Paris Agreement goal is to keep global warming 'well below 2°C', and pursue efforts to limit
it to 1.5°C. To avoid going beyond 1.5°C, global emissions need to reach their peak immediately and
then fall within the next decades – reaching net zero by the middle of the century at the latest. That
means we need to start acting on climate change now. We must redirect our energy production and
economic activities sufficiently to avoid pushing our planet beyond the point at which it will be able to
sustain life as we know it, triggering catastrophic death and destruction. To do so, the world needs to
halve its current emissions by 2030 and reduce emissions to net zero by 2050; a challenge that can only
be met if emissions reductions start now. The IPCC report has conclusively determined that humanity
must act within ten years. This does not mean we can wait a decade before acting. Every year we delay
dramatically increases the cost of transforming our energy system. The time to act is now!
Furthermore, while less-developed nations and indigenous peoples are the least responsible for
creating these consequences, they are also the most endangered and least well equipped to respond
to them. Efforts should be made to prevent a new "green" colonialism by seeking ways to include
communities in developing nations and other indigenous groups in benefitting from green technologies
rather than exploiting them for their resources.
Given their geographic as well as socio-economic positioning and lived experience, these most
vulnerable among the earth’s populations possess unique perspectives regarding how to care for our
common heritage of ecosystem, soil, species diversity, air and water, yet they are frequently excluded
from the decision-making processes regarding the changes needed to protect them.
The challenges facing our planet can seem overwhelming. As Christians we are inspired to act not out
of fear, but out of love for God, love for our neighbors (near and far, present and future), and love for
God’s creation entrusted to our care.
Among the options before us for how best to show our love for our neighbors and the planet is
extending “the polluter pays” principle, (embodied in the 1992 Rio Declaration) beyond prohibitions to
incorporate “costs” to the global ecosystem into the pricing of goods and services. This will, however,
entail significant shifts in our economy and behavior.
One powerful economic tool that can help achieve these shifts and behavior changes, and has strong
support among economists, business leaders, scientists, a number of faith communities, and people on
multiple sides of the political spectrum, is putting a price on carbon that more faithfully reflects the full
environmental cost of using fossil fuels. The 223rd General Assembly (2018) affirmed this approach
when it passed [08-12] "On Supporting Carbon Pricing." Supporting this tool through education and
advocacy furthers needed systemic economic change, previously approved General Assembly policy,
and creation care[iv].
53
PageWe wholeheartedly agree with Bishop Hugh Nelson of the Church of England who so aptly put it in his
address to the COP 26 (2021 meeting in Glasgow, Scotland) in the webinar linked above, that we are
called to “cherish creation, cut carbon and speak up.”
*Terminology varies as to how best to differentiate those countries and communities that are the
greatest producers of greenhouse gases from those that contribute very little; between those that are
better positioned due to political power, geography and wealth to withstand the consequences of
climate change and those that are not. We have chosen to follow the United Nations’ terms of
“Developing Countries, Emerging Economies and Industrialized Economies” as aligning generally with
“least polluting, more polluting and historically most polluting” countries and to assume that the
historically most polluting countries hold greater political as well as financial power to determine their
own destiny and provide support for adaptation to, mitigation of and recovery from the devastating
effects of climate change upon their own people. In shorthand, these nations are often called “global
north”/“global south.” Marianna Liete of the ACT Alliance of church-based organizations lifts up the
seminal writings of Boaventura de Sousa Santos (Boaventura de Sousa Santos - Book chapters) for his
discussion of these terms.)
**”Climate justice is a concept that addresses the ethical dimensions of climate change. Applied ethics,
research and activism using the term approach anthropogenic climate change as an ethical, legal and
political issue, rather than one that is purely environmental or physical in nature. This is done by
relating the causes and effects of climate change to concepts of justice, particularly environmental
justice and social justice. Climate justice examines concepts such as equality, human rights, collective
rights, and the historical responsibilities for climate change.” Wikipedia
[i] The example of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, would be an example of a comprehensive energy
conservation and greening strategy; the Rocky Mountain Institute has been pioneering energy
conversion strategies for many years.
[ii] (an independent research body that consolidates research from across the world and presents
analysis upon which decisions are made by bodies such as the annual Conversation of Partners, or
COPs, to the United Nations Climate Accords).
[iii] (if all current commitments by signatory nations are adhered to.) (The World Resources Institute
provides an important breakdown of both current and historic emitters at the following links:
https://www.wri.org/insights/history-carbon-dioxide-emissions and https://www.wri.org/insights/interactive-
chart-shows-changes-worlds-top-10-emitters).
[iv] See https://www.pc-biz.org/#/search/3000325 for the overture [08-12] approved in 2018, and
https://citizensclimatelobby.org/basics-carbon-fee-dividend/ for scientific and rational support for carbon
pricing and dividends.
54
PageEvangelism and Church Growth
The Presbytery of New Covenant’s Evangelism and Church Growth Committee has met four times since
the last Presbytery meeting. Members of the Committee took great joy in participating in the
Chartering Service for the Presbyterian Church of the Redeemer on December 5, 2021. The Committee
is also pleased to note the first steps of a new worshiping community, “Iglesia Presbiteriana ‘El
Camino’” (“The Way”), at Northwoods Presbyterian Church in Houston.
Members of the Committee are working on a written Procedure to guide new worshiping communities
through the process to becoming chartered congregations of the Presbytery. We are still in the early
stages of writing and editing.
At its meeting on Tuesday, February 15th, the Committee voted to make the following motion at the
March 19th Presbytery meeting:
MOTION: That the Presbytery of New Covenant concur with the Overture from the Presbytery of San
Fernando, On Establishing a Task Force to Explore the Theology and Practice of Ordination to
Ordered Ministry for Ruling Elders.
The overture has received concurrences from these presbyteries: Pittsburgh, Santa Barbara, Santa Fe
The complete text of the Overture, with Rationale, can be found on page 56-57.
Respectfully submitted,
T.E. Fred N. Seay, Chair (Sugar Land, First)
Members:
T.E. Ego Mba (Member at Large), R.E. Robin Moore (Nacogdoches, Westminster), T.E. David L.
Northcutt (HR), R.E. Lynne Parsons Austin (Houston, St. John’s), T.E. David Puig (Houston, Northwoods),
T.E. Tracy Williams (Brazoria, First)
Staff Support: T.E. Shawn Kang
55
PagePage 56
Page 57
Finance Committee
For action by the presbytery: To approve the proposed budget for 2022.
This is the first year that we have had to draw upon the income from the “Building Sales
Fund” of which 30% is allotted to support the presbytery budget. At year end 2021, this
number is $166,900. This helps to replace the funds that we no longer receive after the
dismissal of Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church in 2016 ($155,000 a year for 5
years). We were fortunate to have the forgiveness of the Payroll Protection Program
loan in 2021.
For 2022, the projected Estimates of Giving from our local congregations is down about
$77,000 as of March 11, 2022. There may be some funds available from churches who
have not pledged yet. It is anticipated that this is a small number – perhaps less than
$10,000. Our expenses are projected to be similar to the previous year. Our lease
agreement with St. Philip is based on the cost of operating the building which is
increasing by approximately $4,800 in 2022.
The goal is to present a balanced budget. To that end, severance packages have been
offered to two employees effective March 31, 2022. This adjusts compensation and
benefits down by $84,600, which equals 9 months, since we are at the end of the first
quarter. The cost of personnel is the largest expense in the budget.
After the retirement of Mike Cole in 2016, and Mary Marcotte in 2017, the decision was
made to combine the General Presbyter and Stated Clerk positions to cut from the top
of the organizational structure in order to preserve the bottom. Sharon Darden’s
retirement in 2020 allowed some of that compensation to offer increases to the staff
and to hire a part time coordinator for the Committee on Ministry. As the presbytery
has declined in membership, actions have been taken to “right size” the presbytery staff
so that the presbytery budget deficit might be smaller and more manageable.
58
PagePage 59
Explanation of Terms
MDPC – Memorial Drive
Presbyterian Church
OGA – Office of the General
Assembly
Synod – Synod of the Sun
PJC – Permanent Judicial
Commission
Ops – Operations
PNC – Presbytery of New Covenant
TPF – Texas Presbyterian
Foundation
60
PagePersonnel Committee
March 14, 2022
Notification of Reduction in Force
Staff members, Patricia Brantley and Carrie Walker were notified that their current positions were being
eliminated through a reduction in force. Both staff members were given two weeks’ notice and provided a
severance package based on their years of service. Patricia and Carrie were informed that they could take
vacation days beginning March 15 through March 31 or continue to work until the last official day. They are to
notify Charlie Leibold prior to March 31 of their decision.
A meeting was also held with Mary Currie to discuss additional responsibilities based upon the reduction in
force. Mary was asked and agreed to coordinate the Committee on Preparation for Ministry, the presbytery
database, and to be the second signatory for all checks issued by the presbytery. A salary increase will be
submitted to the finance committee in compensation for the additional duties.
Lynn Hargrove, General Presbyter and Bonnie Moore, Personnel Committee Chair were both present and jointly
conducted the meetings.
Report submitted by Bonnie Moore, chair
The other committee members are Rev. David Jones (Woodlands Community) and Rev. Satoe Soga (At Large)
61
PageCommittee on Ministry
Book of Order responsibilities of COM:
1. G-2.0804: Terms of Call The terms of call shall always meet or exceed any minimum requirement of the
presbytery in effect when the call is made. The session shall review annually the minister’s terms of call and
shall propose for congregational action (G-1.0501) such changes as the session deems appropriate, provided
that they meet the presbytery’s minimum requirements. The call shall include participation in the benefits plan
of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), including both pension and medical coverage, or any successor plan
approved by the General Assembly.
Thank you to those churches that have already sent in their 2022 ANNUAL REVIEW REPORT or ANNUAL
COMPENSATION REPORT FORM. The Annual Review Report is used when there are NO changes in the pastor’s
compensation. The Annual Compensation Report Form is used when there is ANY change or adjustment to any
part of a pastor’s compensation. Churches normally send these in following the Session meeting in which a
pastor’s Interim, Stated Supply, Parish Associate or other contract is approved, or after the annual
congregational meeting in which a pastor’s terms of call are approved for the next year.
Of our 92 churches:
11 churches have not sent an annual report for 15 pastors who have served them since 2019
For an additional 7 churches, it has been since January, 2017 that their pastor’s terms of compensation have
been reported as updated
For 7 additional churches to these, it has been 5-10 years with the same pastor/s serving at the church since
any annual review or change in compensation has been reported.
And for 6 more churches it has been more than 10 years with the same pastor/s serving at the church since
any annual review or change in compensation has been reported
Is your church one of these 31 congregations? Is your pastor one of these 38 pastors?
Link to get the forms to report compensationt: http://pbyofnewcovenant.org/filing-cabinet/
Look in the section titled Resources for Pastors and Committees—Compensation fand Contracts
There you can find 1) Compensation Report 2) Compensation Worksheet 3) Minimum Terms of
Compensation or 4) Temporary Pastor Contract
2. Annual reports by Honorably, Retired Ministers, Ministers at Large, Chaplains, etc.:
62
These will be sent out by email the week after the presbytery meeting. Included this year will be the
question of the year: How has COVID affected your specialized ministry?
PageKeep these colleagues in your daily prayers: It is humbling to see the things these pastors do for us,
our communities, and our churches—local, national and world-wide; the incredible amounts of
continuing education they are involved in (Leading and taking); and the quiet strength of their labors as
they help build and the Kingdom growing in this place!
3. Updating the annual Pulpit Supply List
COM maintains a Pulpit Supply List made up of Ministers at Large, Chaplains, Honorably Retired
Ministers, CREs and others who are willing to preach on an occasional basis If you are willing to be on
the pulpit supply list, please contact Mary Currie to set the process in motion.
(mcurrie@pbyofnewcovenant.org)
I. Recommendations from the Committee
2. From the February 1, 2022 meeting of COM: the Committee on Ministry, being satisfied that the
Pastor Nominating Committee of Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church has made a full and
thorough search, recommends and moves that Presbytery approve the eligibility of Rev Tyler
Henderson to serve as the next installed pastor of Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church.
This call will fall under G02.0504c. Exceptions (to an associate pastor being called as the next
pastor): A presbytery may determine that its mission strategy permits a minister of the Word
and Sacrament currently called as an Associate Pastor to be eligible to serve as the next installed
pastor or co-pastor, or a minister of the Word and Sacrament employed in a temporary pastoral
relationship to be eligible to serve as the next installed pastor, co-pastor, or associate pastor.
Presbyteries that permit this eligibility shall establish such relationships only by a three-fourths
vote of the members of presbytery present and voting.
3. From the March 1, 2022 meeting of COM: The Committee on Ministry being satisfied of her
training, experience, and examination, recommends and moves that Presbytery commission
Ruling Elder Nancy Diaz as a Commissioned Ruling Elder for San Pablo + Trinity Presbyterian
Church, effective May 1, 2022, for an initial period of one (1) year. COM further recommends
and moves that Presbytery grant Nancy Diaz the following powers: To have voice and vote at
presbytery meetings, To preside at the Lord’s Supper when needed, To moderate Session when
needed and To perform marriages when assistance is needed. (San Pablo + Trinity is served by
the Rev. Greg Davis, one of our bi-vocational pastors.) (Statement of Faith follows report)
COM Leadership for 2022
COM Chair RE Greg Feigh COM Vice-chair to be nominated 3/19.2022
Calls and Contracts Subcommittee Chair RE Forbes Baker Vice-chair RE Ada Fuller
Congregational Life Subcommittee: Chair TE Jim Gill Vice-chair TE Karen Estes
Examinations Subcommittee: Chair vacant Vice-chair RE Greg Feigh
63
Professional Life Subcommittee: Chair TE Kevin Boyd Vice-chair RE Chuck Johnson
Page
Coordinator for COM (Staff) TE Mary CurrieII. Actions taken on behalf of Presbytery
1. New Minister Member of Presbytery (Statement of faith follow report)
1. Rev. David Pierce, HR has moved to Missouri City from Northern New England Presbytery (He
served churches in Florida before retiring and moved to New Hampshire after retiring! He has also served
as President of Cook College and Theological School and Vice-President and Seminary Dean at University of
Dubuque.
2. Approved New Terms of Compensation
A. January 11, 2022
1. A new Contract for a Pastoral Intern between Crockett, FPC and Johnie Wood (a Candidate
of this presbytery), effective January 1, 2022 for 1 year
Salary $ 35,000
Manse (fair rental value) 10,500
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 2,500
Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 2,500
Books, Professional expenses 500
BOP Minister Choice 4,550
Study Leave Allowance 250
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
2. A new Interim contract between Brenham PC, Brenham and Rev Ed Wolf effective January
1, 2022, for 1 year
Salary $ 27,500
Housing Allowance 27,500
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 7,000
Study Leave Allowance 1,450
Telephone 900
Books, Professional dues 1,200
Other reimbursable expenses 1,000
Board of Pensions 20,350
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
B. February 1, 2022
A new pastoral call between Katy, Grand Lakes and Tyler Henderson, effective May 1.
Salary $ 25,000
Housing Allowance 45,000
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 2,800
Deferred income 2,400
64
Other reimbursable expenses 1,000
Board of Pensions 25,900
Page
Study Leave Allowance 1,700Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 5,355
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
C. March 1, 2022
1. A new CRE Contract between San Pablo Trinity and Nancy Diaz effective May 1, 2022 for 1 year:
Approximately 5 hours a week with the powers listed in the report above.
2. A new interim contract between Casa View Christian Church (Dallas, TX) and Brent Hampton,
effective March 1, 2022 for 1 year
Salary $ 31,525
Housing Allowance 12,000
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate as submitted
FSA Medical Acct 2,750
Pre-tax Retirement Savings to BOP 300
Dental Insurance 891
Books and Professional Expenses 1,533
Cell phone expenses 600
Board of Pensions 16,104
Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 3,096
Continuing Education 250
Study Leave 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
As part of the approval of this contract, COM also approved validating Brent Hampton’s ministry at Casa Ridge
(allowing his pension and insurance to remain with the BOP) and granted him permission to labor outside the
bounds of presbytery.
3. Validated Changes in Terms of Compensation
A. January 11, 2022
1.The Stated Supply contract between Beaumont, Pioneer PC and Lloyd Crosby, effective January
1, 2022 (10 hours/week)
Salary $ 9,600
Housing Allowance 3,600
2. The Stated Supply Contract between First, Brazoria and Rev Tracy Williams, effective
January 1, 2022
Salary $ 7795
Housing Allowance 17000
Study Leave Allowance 1700
Study Leave 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
B. February 1, 2022
65
Between St Andrews Beaumont and Tara Thompson, effective January 23, 2022
Salary $ 56,000
Page
Housing Allowance 40,000Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 1,500
Books, Professional expenses 3,000
Board of Pensions 35,520
Other paid insurance 492
Study Leave Allowance 2,500
Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 7,344
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
C. March 1, 2022
1 Between Houston, St Stephen PC and Laureen Suba, effective March 1, 2022 (50% full time)
Salary $ 23,735
Housing Allowance 18,750
Travel reimbursement @ IRS rate 1,170
Board of Pensions 13,800
Study Leave Allowance 1,450
Study Leave 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
2 Between Katy, New Hope and Bryan Long, effective January 1, 2022
Salary and housing $ 50,033
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate
Books, Professional expenses 500
Board of Pensions 18,512
Other paid insurance (dental, vision) 1,605
Study Leave Allowance 3,600
Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 3,827
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
4. Between Houston, Heritage and Mark Plunkett, effective February 1, 2022 (75% full time)
Salary $ 20,000
Housing Allowance 20,000
403 B 5,000
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 1,200
Board of Pensions 17,019
Other paid insurance 997
Study Leave Allowance 1,450
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 3 weeks
5. Stated Supply contract Between Alvin, FPC and C.O. Magee effective February 1, 2022 (1/2 time)
Salary $ 31,200
Bonus 500
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
66
Page6. Between A Community of the Servant Savior and Kathleen Davies effective January 1, 2022 (85% full
time)
Salary $ 23,735
Housing Allowance 18,750
Travel Reimbursement @ IRS Rate 1,000
Social Security compensation up to 7.65% 3,250
Books, Professional dues 200
Board of Pensions 16,992
Study Leave (plus clergy retreat if offered) 2 weeks
Vacation 4 weeks
III. Other Actions of COM
1. January 11, 2022
A. Approved the transfer of Ann Marie Quigley Swanson (Northwoods, Houston) to Mission
Presbytery to serve St Mark, Boerne, TX (effective date November 15, 2021)
B. Dissolution agreements and signed Separation Ethics between Rev. Brent Hampton and
Brenham Presbyterian Church (effective date 12/31/2021) and between Rev Ed Wolfe and
First PC, Galveston (effective date 12/31/2021) were received and approved.
2. February 1, 2022
A. Pastor Search Committees were elected by Astacocita Presbyterian Church (Julie Maclemore Wells,
liaison) and First Presbyterian Church Livingston (Jim Gill, liaison)
B. Approved Sue Edrozo to serve as liaison for First Presbyterian Church Galveston.
C. Approved Ed Wolf (Interim, Brenham Presbyterian Church) to lead a mission study with the
congregation
3. March 1, 2021
A. Sustained the February 26, examinations of Rev. J David Pierce and RE Nancy Diaz.
B. Approve the MIF for the St Thomas PNC so they can enter it through Church Leadership connection.
C. Congregational Life reported that subcommittee has divided the churches into groups so they can do a
better job checking on needs as the pandemic lessens.
IV Statements of Faith
Nancy Diaz—Commissioned Ruling Elder San Pablo + Trinity Presbyterian Church
1. Give your current statement of faith in 500 words or less. Include your understanding of the nature of
God, the authority of scripture, and the sacraments.
Answer I believe in the Godhead, One Holy and loving triune God. I believe that God is equally, the Father, the
Son, and the Holy Spirit. I believe that God is the Alpha and the Omega: the beginning and the end. God creates
and sustains all things. God is sovereign. Jesus Christ reconciles creation to Godself through the Holy Spirit who
67
guides humanity to this point of reconciliation.
PageYou can also read
