Speaking to the council’s Executive Committee Sept. 28, Valentine and her staff referred to a number of initiatives.
Deep and Wide. The General Assembly last June approved a plan for “Growing the Church Deep and Wide,” which means growth in evangelism, discipleship, servanthood and diversity.
That was in part a response to people asking, “Doesn’t anyone care that membership is declining and what are you going to do about it?” Valentine said. But there also was a sense that good things are happening through mission partnerships and through transforming existing congregations and the birth and growth of new immigrant fellowships.
“There’s a lot of interest about exchanging information and ideas,” Valentine said. So the PC(USA) has created a new website where people can exchange stories of what they’re doing and of the resources they’ve found valuable in their work.
“Churches and presbyteries that are doing fabulous things have so wanted someone they could tell,” said Tom Taylor, deputy executive director for mission.
Big Tent. The denomination is planning a major “Big Tent” gathering in Atlanta on June 11-13, 2009. At that time, 10 groups will meet simultaneously, sharing worship together. They include groups focusing on multicultural ministry, the work of elders, new immigrants, peacemaking, stewardship and more.
Website redesign. The PC(USA) has started a process of overhauling the denomination’s complex website – in part to make it easier for people to find things and to make better use of graphics, video and social networking. The redesign will be rolled out in stages starting at the end of 2009, and will be completed by the 2010 General Assembly, said Karen Schmidt, deputy executive director for communication and funds development.
