All Souls Presbyterian Church — Richmond, Virginia In 1952 the Presbytery of East Hanover (now Presbytery of the James) and Union Theological Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, approached a nascent African-American congregation about a joint witness. From that, All Souls Presbyterian Church was born — the first integrated congregation in the capital of the confederacy. Over the decades, All Souls has borne a vibrant witness to the reconciliation that we know in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:14), including founding the city’s first integrated Boy Scout troop and first integrated vacation Bible school. Today, the church building houses three ministries that continue to serve the local (and gentrifying) community: Northside Cares, which offers free breakfast twice a month to all; Into the Neighborhood, which ministers to homeless women and offers life-skills and job training to people re-entering society from incarceration; and Joe’s Bike Shop, which trains local youth to repair bikes, and … [Read more...]

Youth mission trips have been a big part of the church for more than 30 years. This congregation has enabled hundreds of youth to learn and serve from Carmichael to Belize and many, many places in between. These trips are life-changing for the youth mission team members. By working together, our youth bond and learn more about the people they serve and the world in which they live. Our youth mission team members (current and past) are grateful to CPC for their prayers and contributions that give them opportunities to serve and to see the bigger world outside of Carmichael. This year we were able to go to Honduras with members of University Presbyterian and the pastor and his wife from Elk Grove Presbyterian Church. This was an amazing trip. It was hot, hard and one of the most rewarding trips we have ever been on. We are grateful to Students Helping Honduras and the Presbytery of Sacramento for making it possible. — Lisa Torgerson, director of children and youth … [Read more...]

Primera Iglesia — Brownsville, Texas We are united by the same faith and love to the same Lord. Our diversity has enabled us to build a strong identity: We are a fellowship in Christ serving our community. We visit a nursing home on weekly basis and minister to homeless people living in transitional shelters.  Our congregation is also involved with children in the neighborhood. Our vacation Bible school attendance has surpassed 100 kids for the past two years and several families have joined our congregation.  Besides the presbytery’s support, we also have partnerships with local hospitals, businesses and Texas A&M University.  They provide the trainers and we provide the resources.  Currently we offer classes on diabetes, nutrition, horticulture and sewing.  As Stephen Covey says, “If they win, we also win.” What’s right with my church?  Our mission is set on relevant goals and based on strong partnerships.   — Leticia G. Martinez Share your 150-word story of … [Read more...]

Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church — Pittsburgh The CHIP insurance plan in today’s news had its start in 1984 at Fox Chapel. When unemployed steel workers appeared on Mother’s Day to protest their fate where corporate employers worshipped, they brought dead fish to greet parishioners before they entered the sanctuary. At other churches, they had been kept out, Fox Chapel’s pastor, John Galloway, welcomed them and asked them to tell us what they needed.  Tearfully, they explained they were unable to provide medical care for their children. Galloway graciously invited them to stay and worship and to meet him afterwards to see what could be worked out. A committee was formed, including Fred Rogers of TV fame as honorary chairman. Charlie LaVallee, who was named director of The Caring Program for Children, worked out a plan with Blue Cross/Blue Shield whereby church members initially contributed $13/month coverage for each of 100 children. With BC/BS matching funds, 200 children were … [Read more...]

Kirk of Kildaire – Cary, North Carolina Kirk of Kildaire places a tremendous focus on those in our community who are below the poverty level and also those who are not yet able to self-sustain. Dedicated and caring focus is placed on neighbors and members as the congregation seeks to ensure that all have their needs met.  Spanish and English classes are offered in addition to Safe Child (a Spanish-language class for parents and families experiencing individual and family dysfunction), tutoring and a USDA-sponsored summer meal program so that all might have the tools and nourishment to confidently claim their place in the body of Christ. Youth help to ensure that families have food when they cannot get to work or school due to bad weather and families donate car seats and other supplies for use by the church and other local ministries. In a world in need of the gospel of love, it is reassuring to see love pouring out the Kirk! — Jordan B. Davis, transitional associate … [Read more...]

First Presbyterian Church  — Portland, Oregon Since 1950, FPC Portland has owned and operated a retreat center just 22 miles to the east in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It is named Menucha (the Hebrew word for “still” in the 23rd Psalm) and it welcomes thousands of guests each year. In 2018 we are trying a new method of Christian formation:  We’re starting a Presbyterian Community of Practice, inviting four young adults (ages 21-29) to live in intentional Christian community while putting their faith into action. Participants will reside at Menucha and serve both at Menucha and downtown at the church. Specific projects and work will depend upon the gifts, skills and interests of participants. We are so excited to see what God will do in and through this community! — Lauren Deming, director of marking at Menucha Learn more at: menucha.org/presbyterian-community-of-practice … [Read more...]