Session Summary

By John Dishman

The Session met for its regular monthly meeting on Sunday afternoon, Oct. 11, at 12:45 PM. All teaching and ruling elders were in attendance, and several visitors were also present. Pastor John opened the meeting with a devotional.  A number of reports were received from (1) the various areas of responsibility, (2) Ministry Coordinator Nancy Day, and (3) Pastors Pete and John. Among the items reported on were:

• Giving has improved somewhat, with an annual under-run now at $47,000, as compared to $55,000 last month.
• Only $26,000 of bonds remain unsold from the $1.5 M offering.
• Evening communion will resume on Nov. 1.
• Progress is being made by the Session in applying the principles of "Simple Church" to TNPC with regard to the process of making disciples.  It is planned to involve the men's retreat attendees once the Session finishes its initial work.
• Winter quarter adult Sunday School will focus on friendship evangelism.  The class will be taught by Pastor John.
• John Rawley has become the new small group coordinator.  He will replace Neil & Ginny Williams, who were greatly thanked for their service in the past year. Several new small groups have started recently, and there are plans for more as part of applying the "Simple Church" process.
• John Rawley and Carl Ede have assumed responsibility for resuming the Salt Shakers ministry.
• Plans for a new approach to welcoming visitors were outlined by Pastors John and Pete.  Two ladies have volunteered to phone visitors on the day they first attend TNPC.
• The Pulpit Committee (Carl Ede, chairman) is meeting weekly.  They are making progress in teaming with one another and achieving unity as they read, research, share their testimonies, and pray together.

Pastor John reported on his pastoral work with the Longacre family during Gwen's recent illness and passing into glory.  He also reported on the Sessions' praying and laying hands on Michael McShurley per James 5:14.

A key discussion area was the process for nominating and electing officers.  John Dishman was assigned the task of preparing the nomination forms and supporting documents. Additionally, he agreed to do a minute for ministry at the Oct. 18 worship service.  Nominations will close on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Carl Ede and Tony Anthony were appointed delegates to the North Texas Presbytery on the weekend of Nov. 6 & 7, with John Dishman as alternate.  The meeting was closed in prayer by Elder Emeritus John Rawley at 4:05 PM.

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