Highlights from the September 25, 2008
Presbytery of Baltimore Meeting

The Baltimore Covenant: Approved

The document clarifies the norms of behavior for dealing with each other and the business facing the whole Presbytery.

It was generated in response to several years of childish and rude behavior with each other when discussing controversial issues; the most incendiary being G-6.0106B (the description of who may serve in church leadership).

Since the Baltimore Presbytery's mission statement is "to glorify God and express God's inclusive grace", the convenant will serve as a reminder of what is respectful conduct and provide an evaluation tool for same. 

Besides speaking openly and listening with respect, and being transparent regarding our intentions, a new process of small group discussion before controversial issues voting has proved to be very effective.  It allows us to listen to nuance of opinion instead of labeling and dividing ourselves in dramatic and emotional fashion.  We are One in Christ!

A spiritual discernment process has been instituted for making important decision in the Presbytery of Baltimore.  It calls the Spirit into the process, and reminds us to respect decisions emerging from this process.

Statistics:

• Membership gains, in general, except from transfers, are down 1/3 from ten years ago.
• Membership or worshipper increase is seen in 7 of our Baltimore PC churches.
• Mission giving (except to PCUSA mission) has increased four-fold.

Good News:

• 14 Baltimore churches are working with Deep Shift to refresh and renew themselves
• 2 new church developments have moved into large, more appropriate facilities
• The PoB created a sweat-free initiative and re-created a Care of Creation task force
• $18,000 was distributed in Self Development of People funds
• The PoB provided training for church personnel committees, educators, youth workers, elders, and clerks.  The trainers and resources are there; Churches just need to ask for assitance.
• The G.A. Council is reduced to 40 members from 100!  Agility and speed are expected
• Successful workshops on worship, evangelism, and stewardship skilled many of us
• The Tidings Weekly Newsletter of the PoB helps us communicate important news.

Requests:

Nominations for PoB Committee Members are needed.  We help each other by serving.  See the posted Nomination Form for details on our office hallway bulletin board.

Bonnie Clarke, elder commissioner for the 9/25/08 Presbytery meeting