Saturday, September 16, 2023
Mt. Paran Presbyterian Church
As September approaches, we are planning an extraordinary half-day event that promises to be a true celebration of our rich history, shared faith, and vibrant community. The Presbytery of Baltimore is excited to invite you to our 900th Stated Meeting, where we’ll convene for a gathering of inspiration, connection, and commemoration like never before!
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
The 900th Gathering is not merely a celebration of a numerical feat; it is a heartfelt tribute to the individuals who have contributed to the fabric of our presbytery. It’s a nod to the pastors who have shepherded their flocks with unwavering dedication, the elders who have provided guidance, and the congregants who have formed the vibrant tapestry of our community.
It is no coincidence that we are meeting at Maryland’s oldest Presbyterian church. Mt. Paran Presbyterian was only the second church organized in the young nation of America. If we’re lucky, a parish historian may be on hand to share insights on Mt. Paran’s rich past.
As we commemorate this milestone, we also cast our gaze forward, envisioning the future with hope and enthusiasm. Just as our ancestors looked to each gathering as a wellspring of inspiration, we too can draw from this collective experience to propel us towards greater depths of understanding, compassion, and service.
Early Birds Get the Blessings
The celebration will begin at 10 am with a lively procession, followed by an inspirational worship service and music filling the sanctuary, so plan to arrive early for coffee, registration, and seating. We look forward to a full house, and you certainly won’t want to miss a moment.
Welcoming Distinguished Guests
We will greet and welcome a host of distinguished guests to our historic gathering. As they bring their unique insights and perspectives from afar, their presence adds depth and breadth to our celebration, reminding us of the diverse and interconnected nature of our faith community.
- Rev. Dr. Diane L. Givens Moffett, President and Executive Director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency
- Rev. Warren Lesane, Executive and Stated Clerk for the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic
- Rev. Fern Cloud, Pastor of the Pejuhutazizi Presbyterian Church, and a delegation from the Presbytery of Dakota
Worshiping Together
Our lively worship service, complete with a joyous opening procession, promises to be a soul-stirring event that you won’t want to miss. The service will explore the theme of “From Generation to Generation,” written by members of the Spiritual Leadership Development Commission. Outgoing Moderator Cecil Phillips will be preaching, and we will celebrate the Lord’s Supper together.
Business at Hand
In addition to rich and meaningful worship which will include the celebration of communion and installation of officers, there is also important and exciting business on the docket. During the meeting we will examine Jennifer McCullough for ordination as the Associate Pastor at Ark and Dove, and act on some important policy revisions in response to changes in the Book of Order. We will consider Manual changes related to The Center and to a revamped (new and improved) CRE program and hear a report from the Administrative Commission for Glen Burnie Korean Presbyterian about the church’s exciting and hopeful new directions. Watch for meeting papers to be posted shortly after Labor Day. After the session concludes, we will adjourn to the sprawling outdoors, where our time of fellowship and community continues.
A Taste of Cameroon
Everyone will be treated to an authentic Cameroonian lunch, with food prepared on site by generous parishioners of Mt. Paran, and served in the shade, There will be time under the tent for further introductions, informal discussion, and information sharing with colleagues across the state, and beyond.
Our Offering
At the heart of our gathering lies a commitment to making a positive impact beyond our own community. Join us in contributing to an offering for Medical Assistance in Cameroon, supporting a cause that reaches beyond borders and demonstrates the power of our collective compassion. Download (and share/post) this flyer to learn more.
Enter to Win a Handmade Star Quilt
The Baltimore Dakota Learning Camps are raffling this unique quilt to support their Sisseton TLearning Camp. It was handmade by Gerald Amos, a member of the Sisseton Wahpeton Dakota people. The Dakota give star quilts for significant events such as births, deaths, marriages and graduations. The diamonds in the star represent the people so that when you wrap the quilt around yourself, you are surrounded by your people. BDLC plans on drawing the winner at the 900th Gathering. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and are $5 or 3 for $10. If interested, email Bob Steppling, BDLC Steering Committee Chair at Bobsteppling@gmail.com
In Conclusion
The Presbytery’s 900th Gathering is a pivotal moment in our shared history—a moment to honor the past, embrace the present, and envision a future guided by faith, unity, and love. Let us come together to celebrate, to learn, and to connect in a way that we can only do in person. As we mark this remarkable milestone, we extend an invitation to all to join us in celebrating our enduring journey of faith and community.
