A Message from Mark
Of General Assembly, Glad Ministry, and God’s Faithfulness
Mark McCormick, General Presbyter
The past two weeks have been an exciting and grueling time for the commissioners who were sent to the 227th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. We can witness God’s faithfulness in the stamina and dedication of the Commissioners from the Presbytery of Sheppards and Lapsley, Rick Atkerson, Joe Genau, Darryl Love, and Adrienne Royster, and our Young Adult Advocate Delegate, McClain Robinson as they met, discussed, deliberated, and voted!
They will have plenty of opportunity to report on their experiences at the 227th GA, but if you have a moment, be sure to express your appreciation for the thoughtful way they were able to participate in the ministry of the church as they considered important matters of business and voted as they were guided by the Holy Spirit.
As we will see soon enough, the important work of the General Assembly will begin to make its way to the presbyteries for consideration and, in some matters, to consider ratification of their actions. I have already noticed reporting, as I am sure that many of you have, that can present actions of the Assembly in rather dramatic light without presenting the complexities that commissioners were required to navigate. The Presbyterian Outlook is a balanced source of information for all sides of the debates and actions of the Assembly. I am hopeful that all of us in the PCUSA will continue to be thoughtful with our language, generous in our spirits, and compassionate with all our siblings in Christ as we discern God’s faithful guidance in matters of constitutional interpretation, employment practices, financial responsibilities, and partnering strategies. Remembering Paul’s encouragement to that diverse and challenging Church in Rome,
“Live in harmony with one another, do not be arrogant . . .do not claim
to be wiser than you are. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. (Romans 12:16, 18)
As the Body of Christ that is the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) continues our journey toward being reformed according to the Word of God, may we all seek to be faithful to the polity of our denomination and trust the good intentions and faithfulness of our commissioners and denomination leadership to be acting in prayerful discernment for God’s purposeful leading in these challenging moments.
In other evidence of God’s faithfulness within the bounds of PSL, I had the blessed opportunity this past Sunday to travel to Wetumpka to join with First Presbyterian Church as it celebrated two decades of Jonathan Yarboro’s leadership and glad ministry there! From the opening sing along led by Jonathan, Davis Whitfield, and Mike Higgins on guitars, to the celebratory meal, amazing hospitality, and creative (and hilarious) gift-giving at the end, Jonathan’s promise that I would see “church” like no other in the Presbytery did not disappoint!
The beautifully reconstructed church building sits so very Presbyterian-like on the bank of the Coosa River, steeple pointing directional guidance for any who may wonder about its purpose. But after seeing the church and observing the steeple, when you open the door and (oh yes, I will say it), meet all the people, the clear ministry of First Presbyterian Wetumpka is open-hearted sharing the love of Christ with everyone. It is a joyous gift to see fellow presbyters in their churches and to witness how the love of Christ flows mutually among members, elders, and their pastor! I heard story after story of how one member or another “came as they were” and immediately felt the welcoming love of Christ and joyous acceptance of them as they were. Drawing the circle wide and including “whosoever will” is strong evidence of God’s faithfulness to a fallen humanity in need of grace, compassion, and reconciliation.
The First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka is so very blessed to have called and installed Jonathan Yarboro when he was looking for his first call, and they know it! Jonathan, Alicia, and their two daughters are equally aware how their lives have been integrally woven into the lives of that community, and they know how blessed they are to live and serve in Wetumpka. I will quote my good brother, “We are all right where God wants us to be!” For that affirmation, and for the wonderful opportunity to celebrate glad Christian ministry and fellowship together, we can all proclaim, “Thanks be to God!”
I have received invitations to join other churches in PSL, sometimes for special services and sometimes to serve as pulpit supply. I look forward to these opportunities to travel around within the bounds and learn more about your ministries in your communities and to witness how we live out our connectional relationships from the General Assembly to each Session, seeing God’s faithfulness throughout.
Hopefully,
Mark