Highlights from the 226th General Assembly

With the 226th General Assembly concluded this month, progress was made across a wide range of topics. Here is a top ten list, with links to more information, courtesy of the PC(USA).



1. The Rev. Jihyun Oh is elected, then installed, as Stated Clerk
2. The Rev. CeCe Armstrong and the Rev. Tony Larson are selected as Co-Moderators
3. Both portions of the ‘Olympia Overture’ are approved
4. General Assembly backtracks on complete divestment from the fossil fuel industry
5. ‘Our ancestors’ wildest dreams’
6. Next stop: Milwaukee
7. The 226^th General Assembly is one for the ages
8. Technology, committee support pass the test at General Assembly
9. Young Adult Advisory Delegates participate in GA orientation
10. Utah churches welcome commissioners and advisory delegates

GA 226 Impacts on Our Partnerships

Guatemala Partnership

General Assembly committee recommends continued PC(USA) support and engagement in Guatemala - Presbyterians are encouraged to engage with U.S. lawmakers and learn more about past corruption. Learn more about the overture – Read the overture

Cuba Partnership

By way of the consent agenda, the 226th General Assembly approved the commissioner’s resolution by consensus on reaching out in concern for the Presbyterian Reformed Church in Cuba and the people of Cuba. Read the resolution

Leaning in on the Strategic Plan

As the Presbytery’s Strategic Plan challenges and guides the work of our commissions, General Presbyter Jacqueline Taylor has reflected on each of our three core values in a summer series of Midweek Messages.

1st Core Value: Promoting Justice

2nd Core Value: Practicing Inclusivity

3rd Core Value: Prioritizing Churches and Leaders to Thrive

The Clerk's Corner

A Weapons Policy for Churches

Several months ago a church session asked if the Presbytery had any advice for churches who wanted to have a policy on firearms and weapons on church property. Our attorneys at Gallagher, Evelius and Jones have subsequently drafted a template for churches who are interested in creating such a policy. While we all wish we didn't have to contemplate such things, we are living in a complicated world and it can be helpful to have clear expectations and guidance on the presence of weapons that conforms to Maryland law. If you would like a copy of the template please contact me at mgaut@baltimorepresbytery.org. Remember, the template is not a policy. It is a place to start. Any official policy must be approved by the Session.

Attention Pastors and Clerks

If you have a new clerk of session this year please make sure their name and contact information has been sent to the presbytery office via Felicia Scott at fscott@baltimorepresbytery.org

Fall Courses at St. Mary’s

St. Mary's Ecumenical Institute invites you to join a vibrant, diverse learning community of individuals pursuing professional excellence and personal growth through graduate theological study and ministry formation. Fall 2024 courses include Spirituality & Theology of Henri Nouwen, God and the Problem of Evil, and Romans: Paul’s Gospel Then and Now. Attend in person by Zoom. Visiting Students and auditors are welcome. More information at: stmarys.edu/ei or contact gzook@stmarys.edu

Save the Date: October 26 - Matthew 25 Mid Atlantic Summit

Join this fall's in-person conference organized by the Dismantling Racism Teams of the Presbytery of Baltimore and The National Capital Presbytery. This one day event at First Presbyterian Church of Howard County will feature workshops, networking, and worship, as well as Keynote Speaker Rev. Jermaine Ross-Allam, PC(USA) Director of the Center for Repair of Historic Harms. Stay tuned for more information right here and on our website.

Interim Pastor

Hunting Ridge Presbyterian Church seeks an individual to provide a balanced ministry of preaching, teaching, pastoral care, and organizational leadership to the members and staff of Hunting Ridge Presbyterian Church (HRPC), an intentionally multicultural church, growing in faith and embracing our differences, for a period of one year. Interested candidates should email hrpc.ips2024@gmail.com. Job Description

Director of Children’s Christian Education

First & Franklin Presbyterian Church is seeking an individual to oversee the children’s Christian education program. The DCCE will foster a joyful and inclusive learning environment for children. Job Description

Nursery School Lead Classroom Teacher

Mt. Hebron Presbyterian Church is currently searching for a Nursery School Lead Classroom Teacher who has a passion for working with children. MHNS is a non-profit school that offers theme based developmentally appropriate programs designed to nurture and educate the children in all areas of development. Ideal Candidates will have Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Elementary Education Preferred. Candidates Must have Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential and/or an Associate Degree with 15 college credit hours of approved coursework. Interested applicants please respond with cover letter and resume to: clerkofsession@mthebronpc.org – Lead Classroom Teacher Position

Nursery School Assistant Classroom Teacher

Mt. Hebron Presbyterian Church is currently searching for a Nursery School Assistant Classroom Teacher who has a passion for working with children. Ideal Candidates will have 90 hours of Early Childhood Certification and earned or working towards a Level 2 MSDE credential. Required credential level must be earned within one year of hire and maintained throughout employment. Interested applicants please respond with cover letter and resume to: clerkofsession@mthebronpc.org – Assistant Teacher Position

Visit the Presbytery's website for additional employment listings.