PITTSBURGH, June 30, 2012 – Landon Whitsitt, vice moderator of the 219th General Assembly, used his keen sense of humor during what could have been a dry commissioner orientation during the opening plenary session. As is the practice, the 220th General Assembly began with welcome messages from the Committee on Local Arrangements. Mr. McFeely (David Newell), from the television show “Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood” had commissioners shaking hands in a “Speedy Delivery”. He also shared the call of the Rev. Fred Rogers to create children’s television programming that was not violent and which honored the wonder of the imagination.
Commissioners were oriented to the use of their electronic keypads by answering a series of demographic questions. At this year’s gathering, 66% of commissioners are over the age of 55, and 82% are Caucasian. 76% are first timers, and 13 people have been to four or more assemblies.
Business included approving the docket, as well as referrals in progress. Two items were lifted out from the report – a recommendation that the Board of Pensions develop a plan to ensure that funds from any relief of conscience churches do not go to fund abortions through any avenue, and the other on reestablishing an office of collegiate ministries as a vital part of ministry and mission.
A video featuring the Lake Travis Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas, told the story of how the six agencies of the PCUSA had assisted in the life of their congregation.
