PORTLAND, Ore. – The 222nd General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) kicked off in Portland, Ore. today. Here are the daily highlights from the Presbyterian Outlook.
Moderator election. On the first ballot, the assembly elected T. Denise Anderson and Jan Edmiston, both teaching elders, as co-moderators, choosing them over the team of Adan Mairena and David Parker — and making them the first all-female moderatorial team in PC(USA) history.
Riverside Conversations. Close to 400 Presbyterians gathered around small tables the morning of June 18 for Riverside Conversations, to discuss findings from a listening effort the Committee on the Office of the General Assembly conducted last fall.
Outlook luncheon. Heath Rada was awarded the E.T. Thompson award by the Presbyterian Outlook Foundation, and guests heard from the candidates standing for co-moderators.
Opening plenary. As the assembly convened, Heath Rada presented his report to the church and commissioners were given instructions for their service.
Middle East Peace breakfast event. At a gathering sponsored by Presbyterians for Middle East Peace, a Palestinian human rights activist said punishing Israel economically will do nothing to promote peace and prosperity, and a Christian Arab said Israel’s tolerance for difference offers hope in a region all but consumed by violent uniformity.
Social media. Tweet your six-word prayers for this General Assembly to @presoutlook using hashtag #6wordGAprayer