BIENNIAL REPORT 2018–2019 Dear Friends,

We are grateful for the opportunity to share with you the work of the Synod of the Northeast as it unfolded in 2018 and 2019. Since migrating to our biennial operating structure—meeting in even years and gathering for our Come to the Table event in odd years—we felt it important to include the full life of We are called to provide the Synod in our report for this two-year period. What we could not have known was that in and among all the shifting sands and changing realities of our normal life together as a Synod, that we would be issuing this report in the midst of a global pandemic. unencumbered spaces Still, we see that God has been preparing us, and the Holy Spirit has been leading us in ways that can only be described as prophetic over these past two years. Calling us to examine ourselves in light of Matthew 25, and placing in us the sense of urgency on behalf of communities in crisis, God has certainly turned for the Holy Spirit our hearts in a direction that will serve us in this time of unparalleled challenges.

Even as the epicenter of the pandemic has fallen within our bounds, so too do we feel centered in to move among us, God’s unwavering love and presence. We hope you will see in this report, the many ways in which the Synod of the Northeast seeks to share that love and presence across our region as we live into our calling, breathing new life into “for such a time as this.” us and strengthening us In Christ, to work for the realm and reign of God.

Jacinth Hanson Harold M. Delhagen Synod Moderator Synod Leader The Synod of the Northeast is the regional community of Presbyterians in , , , , , , and , CONTENTS worshiping in and witnessing to these states in 22 presbyteries with over 1,130 gospel communities. GATHERING TOGETHER

Synod Assembly 2018 3 Come to the Table 2019 6

NURTURING INNOVATION

Innovation Funding 11 Synod-wide Networks 19 Work and Life of the Synod 21

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITIES

Presbyteries 25 Partnerships 33 Initiatives 35 Robert Washington Scholars 37 Campus Ministries 39

Total Given in 2018-19 41 Leadership & Staff 42 Gathering Together

Reuniéndonos Juntos MOVING OUR MINISTRY FORWARD OUR MINISTRY MOVING 다같이 모이기

Moving our Ministry Forward 1 2 SYNOD ASSEMBLY 2018 With 64 commissioners, 10 young adult + Forming the first cohort of Robert “Some situations assembly delegates (YAADs), stated clerks, Washington Scholars, Rev. Mario Bolivar, The 2018 Assembly focused on observers and leaders from 21 presbyteries in Rev. Hyon Kim, and Rev. Terri Ofori have the urgent need for the Church cannot be avoided, we attendance, the Reverend Diane Givens Moffett, completed their program; the next class has to respond to the central Executive Director of the Presbyterian Mission been welcomed into the process. (More on issues of our time: racism, must act, and make Agency opened the Assembly with worship, the Scholars on page 37 of this report) polarization, the ravaging using the Esther text to frame her sermon. + Expanding the work of the Committee on of our planet, and the needs a choice: whether to Rev. Moffett spoke words that seem pointedly Representation, auditing the diversity of of the most vulnerable who stay silent in a time of prophetic today as this bi-annual report is our work as a synod. feel the impact of all of these released during a time when the world is in the + Shifting the emphasis from governance to most acutely. The Assembly horror... or to answer midst of a global pandemic. mission. planning team aptly chose as + Working to lower the draw on our it’s theme the text from Esther: the call and serve God In response, the Emerging Leaders of the Synod endowment funds, as much as 10% prepared a “Confession For Such a Time as annually. But continue to fund innovation and the people.” This,” which became an integral part of the and mission. For Such a worship, work, and business of the Assembly. + Learning and growth in anti-racism The Reverend Harold Delhagen, Synod Leader, awareness extending into the presbyteries Time as This — Rev Diane Givens Moffett in his report to the assembly, emphasized + Improving communications within the the ways in which the Synod has reshaped its synod. structure and placed mission at the heart of its + New Diversity Working Group to identify the work rather than governance. This assembly myriad of peoples living within the bounds marked the five-year milestone since the of the synod and create paths for deeper adoption of The New Way Forward. Describing engagement. the journey from “serving the institution” + Emerging Leaders’ Group nurtures those to serving one another as God’s people in entering ministry. the context of the Presbyterian Church, Rev. + Supporting our immigrant neighbors through Delhagen shared the insight that has inspired support of immigration reform and advocacy. the work of reshaping and restructuring the + Large initiative for partnerships and Synod of the Northeast: rebuilding in Puerto Rico.

“It became clear that we were not simply called to wander from the former things of the MISSIONAL WORK OF THE ASSEMBLY institutional church. Our destination is to join with all humanity on the path to becoming this Commissioners, YAADS and leadership were Beloved Community. Our way toward this calls called upon to gather in small groups to upon some of the best of our tradition and our consider ways to shape the work of the Synod unfettered imagination.” in its missional purpose, giving particular attention to the role of Emerging Leaders and Rev. Delhagen went on to describe some of the to the tenets expressed in the confession that foundational work that has happened in the they prepared. Each group reported back to the realization of the Synod’s reframed mission, the assembly with connections and ideas for their New Way Forward, including: individual presbyteries and ministry contexts.

3 4 BUSINESS OF THE ASSEMBLY This would include clergy spouses; church members who are employees; young adults The Synod of the Northeast, in order to give at college who are geographically closer to voice and vote to its young adult participants, their presbytery or synod than they are to conducts its business by adjourning from their local church; leaders of new worshipping the full body to a committee of the whole for communities or immigrant fellowships; the purpose of discussion and voting. The mission workers; or a person elected to serve committee of the whole is then adjourned and as a clerk of session when the session has no the assembly reconvenes to ratify the work of vacancies. This idea is not new. The 204th the committee. General Assembly (1992) encouraged a study of a number of reforms to ordained service. The In this way, the following business was report that was issued included this idea. discussed and taken to vote and ratification during the 2018 Assembly: The Synod Mission and Ministries Commission is committed to bringing this overture + Elect the Synod Moderator, Synod Leader, forward again to General Assembly because Stated Clerk and Treasurer. they believe that in the 21st century the + Ratify the Synod Mission and Ministries Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) needs to find ways Commission approval of a synod per capita to include people at decision-making tables rate of $4.10 per year for 2019 and 2020. who have historically been left out. + Ratify the Mission and Ministries Commission’s approval of the proposed The second overture, On Establishing a General 2019 and 2020 budget. Assembly Administrative Commission on + Change Synod standing rule SR2.100 and Mid-Councils, will provide a mechanism for raise the maximum age for a Young Adult the General Assembly to approve mid-council Advisory Delegate to 23 years. business between its meetings in 2020 and + Elect the Permanent Judicial Commission 2022. This is particularly important to New class of 2024. Jersey presbyteries that are considering the + Commend the “Confession for Such a Time possibility of creating four presbyteries where as This” to the presbyteries for study and there are now seven. We know that there are engagement. other presbyteries also considering a variety of changes. Rather than having to wait until the 225th General Assembly in 2022, this overture OVERTURES TO would enable these changes to be brought to 224TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY a GA commission for approval at any time that the work has been completed. The Synod has sent two overtures to General Assembly for consideration at its June meeting. The first, On Amending G-2.0301 to Allow Congregations to Elect Members as Ruling Elders for Service to the Larger Church, would enable many people who are currently shut out of being able to serve on session the ability to still become a ruling elder for specific service.

5 6 COME TO THE TABLE 2019

For Such a Time as This: Crisis, Change, Opportunity “Our prayer and hope is that while we listen to what The third convening of Come to the Table—the the Reverend Dr. Liz Theoharis, along with Synod’s bi-annual gathering around mission workshop leaders and Synod leadership invited and ministry—took place on November participants into experiences of reflection God is doing in your lives, 8-9, 2019 at Stony Point Center. Over 120 and repentance for the institutional sinfulness participants came together from across the 22 that affects those who are lifted up in the presbyteries of the Synod. Participants were Matthew 25 text that is the centerpiece of the in our communities, and called upon to: Presbyterian Mission Agency’s initiative of the same name. “...consider the moment in which we are in the world around us, living, remembering that each generation is Workshops featured leaders from deeply born for their time with all of its challenges affected communities, including those and possibilities. And considering the ways represented by partners from Puerto Rico and we may be drawn together in which each person’s perspective brings an Cuba, where the Synod is actively engaged in interpretation to a particular circumstance and ministries of recovery following disaster and shapes each community’s response.” reconciliation following years of distancing in the Spirit, inspired by between our communities. Participants For Such a Time as This: Crisis, Change, explored,“Building a Movement to End Opportunity, the theme chosen for the Poverty,” “Presence in the Midst of Crisis,” one another’s passions and gathering by the organizing team was intended and “Solidarity, Justice, Community and the to highlight the central issues of the current Church.” Engaging members from the many time as articulated at the 2018 Synod Assembly, immigrant and refugee communities within moved to deepen our shared and to remind us that the sense of urgency the bounds of the Synod, topics highlighted for a given circumstance depends on the the particular responsibility of the Church to witness to the God who is, relationship of a given community to that listen and respond to their messages of critical circumstance. need. The goal of being present to crisis is first to acknowledge, then to seek ways to change in and was and shall be.” Come to the Table worship leader, the Reverend the wake of it, and lastly to find the opportunity Cindy Kohlmann, Co-moderator of the General to live fully into our calling together. Assembly of the PCUSA, and keynote speaker,

7 8 Nurturing Innovation

Animando Innovación PROVIDING UNENCUMBERED SPACE PROVIDING 혁신을 키워나가기

9 10 INNOVATION FUNDING FROM THE MISSION WORKING GROUP International Student Campus Ministry Eastern Korean American Presbytery 2019 $10,000

The Moving Church Within College Campus First United Presbyterian Church of Cambridge 2019 $15,000 is establishing a ministry to Chinese In 2018 and 2019 respectively, the Synod joyfully international students attending the many The Moving Church within College Campus is nearby college campuses; striving to form an emerging gospel community of primarily provided funds of $381,000 and $250,000 to relationships that will help provide students Korean college students that moves together support the innovative ministries and gospel with community and support outside the with Jesus at Rutgers University. The Moving classroom, opportunities to interact with Church creates fellowship, worship, and communities that enliven our shared mission. Americans and experience American culture opportunities to share struggles, whenever, and traditions, and to learn more about wherever. The Moving Church dreams of a Christianity from people of faith. beautiful world in which each individual in the church becomes a temple of God. Albany Quincy Mandarin Bible Study Fellowship 2019 $16,500 Christ Community Church

Hudson Church Without Walls Cory Johnson Program for 2019 $20,000 The Mandarin Bible Study Fellowship is an 2018 $10,000 Post-Traumatic Healing emerging gospel community in North Quincy, Christ Community Church is an Emerging 2018 $20,000 A continuation of the First Presbyterian Church MA. The is tapping Gospel Community that gathers in Paramus, of Hudson’s experimentation with field trips, After the unsolved murder of a bright young the tremendous potential for connection NJ. Initially an English-language Korean public liturgies, mission that is not place- member of the Roxbury Presbyterian church and ministry among the growing Mandarin- community, they have begun to attract based, and trying new forms of worship in by gun-violence in 2010, the congregation speaking Chinese population in this area members of Japanese heritage and others as unconventional spaces to help discover a new established the Cory Johnson Program for by commissioning Yan Wang to serve as its well. Given the historic animosity of Koreans way of being together and in the community. Post-Traumatic Healing in his honor. Seeking ministry leader, gathering Chinese immigrants, toward the Japanese, their ministry is already to break the cycles of violence and trauma, students, and scholars to his home weekly for living into the reconciliation that is made Boston the program provides a unique faith- and shared meals, Bible study, and fellowship. possible by the gospel of Christ and hopes to community-based approach to addressing become an ongoing model of multi-cultural Kindling Collective and healing trauma.This grant will fund a Cayuga/Syracuse welcome and belonging. 2018 $15,000 curriculum and processes to expand its

ministry and establish similar programs in Westminster REACH Elizabeth Formerly called the “Arts, Spirituality, and other communities. 2018 $10,000 2019 $10,720 Justice Campus Ministry at Church of the Iglesia Presbiteriana Nuevas Fronteras Covenant,” this arts-focused community A historically activist congregation in Confirmation Connection 2019 $12,500 outreach to local art students and recent a historically activist community, the 2018 $14,500 graduates seeks to help spiritually hungry but Westminster Presbyterian Church seeks to Young and Bold is a collaborative initiative church-wary individuals integrate their art Seeking new ways to connect congregations, embrace its legacy to meet the new and between the Iglesia Presbiteriana Nuevas practice and creativity with their spirituality. support meaningful Confirmation experiences, emerging needs in its neighborhoods and Fronteras and local businesses to provide (Year 1 awarded September 2016 $20,000) and partner with the work of Common Cathedral, region. Seeking to provide radical welcome cohort-based fiscal education, leadership the Presbytery of Boston is developing a year- to the diverse population of children, youth, development, vocational guidance, and long, presbytery-wide opportunity to engage and families in their area, through multi- spiritual direction to young adult immigrants Confirmation students and their congregations sensory, multi-modal, co-developed, and (ages 21-35) or those born to immigrant around the social and theological issues of socially engaged opportunities to encounter parents. homelessness in their community. meaningful community and spiritual formation.

11 12 Genesee Valley New Brunswick assistance navigating the local education Adulting is better when you adult together, system to opportunities for connection, so the 20/30 Dream Hub hosts “Adulting ASL Interpretation Project Sand Hills Community Wellness Center belonging, and deep collaboration with the 101” workshops on essential life skills. The 2019 $11,500 2018 $18,000 community. centerpiece will be a co-working space for

young adult entrepreneurs and innovators Third Presbyterian Church in Rochester is Innovation Funding supported Grace Newark making entrepreneurship more accessible in seeking to launch an American Sign Language Presbyterian Church’s mission of this center to Jamaica & Southeast Queens. (ASL) interpretation program to better welcome provide programs that enhance the growth of Community Outreach Project and meet the spiritual needs of the local mind, body and spirit. 2019 $7,500 Common Ground deaf community. They had discovered that, 2019 $20,000 although Rochester is home to the second- C.A.F.E. para el Alma Central Presbyterian Church is embarking on largest deaf community in the nation, there 2019 $15,000 a new trajectory of ministry to serve the many Common Ground is an emerging gospel were no local progressive congregations local children across all demographics entering community in New York City committed to An emerging gospel community whose Spanish consistently offering American Sign Language preschool and kindergarten unprepared and being progressive, LGBTQIA+ celebrating, and acronym stands for Comunion, Amor, Fe, (ASL) interpretation. lagging behind in important early childhood loving. Their goal involves gathering recovering Esperanza (Communion, Love, Faith, Hope), skills. This grant funds: a volunteer reading Evangelicals by blending progressive Reformed the four components of the basic structure Hudson River program that partners with local family-run theology with Evangelical aesthetics. Creating of Christian life. This EGC serves the diverse childcares to improve language mastery; a safe, relevant space for those disaffected and Spanish speaking community in the Trenton, Pastoral Sabbath monthly community events in collaboration disenfranchised by Christianity to reengage NJ area who struggle to belong and face many 2018 $6,000 with local arts and other organizations; and Christian community and reimagine their faith. challenges. a movement program for both parents and A monthly 24-hour retreat ministry that children that strives to foster a love of exercise NYC Young Adult Volunteer Program provides space, time, and leadership for pastors Lawrenceville Job Training Partnership and expression while building community and 2019 $10,000 (Teaching Elders and Commissioned Ruling 2018 $20,000 2019 $20,000 social skills in a caring environment. Elders) to engage in and cultivate practices The board of the New York City Young Adult The Presbyterian Church of Lawrenceville of Sabbath. Encouraging participants to be Volunteer (YAV) program is endeavoring to has established a diverse array of partners to New York City more physically mindful, emotionally aware, revitalize the ministry site by addressing some facilitate a job-training program for newly- mentally attentive, and spiritually healthy of the challenges they’ve discovered since released formerly incarcerated persons. The Broom Tree Garden and Gallery individuals, who in turn are able to provide launching in 2015 and incorporating more of program is also designed to draw local business 2018 $18,000 better leadership to their communities. the unique opportunities around diversity owners, community partners, and of course Astoria First Presbyterian Church in Queens offered by New York City itself as well as the the congregation into community and mutual Long Island is creating seamless ministry in their presbytery. This grant will help form a sturdier action together. neighborhood in partnership across the foundation from which to build and grow

Glenwood Table many faiths and cultures in their diverse, toward increased energy, momentum, and self- Newton 2018 $18,000 urban setting. This grant will support the sustainability.

development of the garden ministry as a way of After establishing Glenwood Life Center, a Hope’s Table connecting neighbors to each other, their faith Project Connect: Incarcerated Women community center in which the neighborhood 2019 $12,000 journeys, and caring for the Earth we share. Visitation & Re-entry - Gethsemane hosts meetings, classes and events, we planted Emerging from relationships formed through 2018 $15,000 2019 $15,000 an EGC, Glenwood Table, to grow relationships its 15-year-old food pantry, the Wharton 20/30 Dream Hub with neighbors already meeting at GLC, inviting The expansion and development of an already United Community Church is embracing new 2019 $19,280 them to teach us their craft so we might successful and meaningful program serving opportunities for greater ministry with and incorporate it into worship. Around the Table, The 20/30 Dream Hub will be a center of incarcerated and formerly-incarcerated people for the local community. In a town that has we share worship and learn from one another. 20-somethings and 30-somethings in the to better meet the unique needs of women. become 60% Spanish-speaking, they are Southeast Queens area empowering each other striving to meet needs from ESL classes and to live out their God-given dreams and visions.

13 14 Northern Building Community Through Shared Resources Parents’ Night Out 2018 $18,000

2018 $1,500

The Hammond Presbyterian Church is In trying to find new ways of serving their small increasingly becoming the sole source of rural community, the Presbyterian Church community gathering in their rural town. of Barnet is hosting periodic Parents’ Night They have welcomed this opportunity and Out events. By providing fun, safe, and free responsibility and are seeking to respond childcare, they hope to bless parents with a faithfully with an upgrade to their kitchen break and time to focus on their marriages, space, which will enable them to meet the offer children and youth a fun evening of emerging needs in their community. fellowship, and cultivate a positive relationship with the community. Moving Forward Together 2018 $12,000 Londonderry PC (Walking Together &

Walking With Me) Committed to pursuing revitalization and 2018 $10,000 2019 $15,000 increasing health for both the presbytery and Recognizing that formalized support for its member congregations, the Presbytery of grief arising from the death of a loved one Northern New York is developing resourcing is a significant but often overlooked need, and processes that will help each participating and that the programs that do exist are often body better understand its life, recognize its time-bounded while grief is a long-range and strengths, and gain clarity around its purpose ongoing process, the Londonderry Presbyterian and mission. Church, through its pastor Karla Dias, felt called to form a ministry to provide ongoing support Southern New England through community and care. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Northern New York Presbyterian Church 2018 $20,000 2019 $20,000

Watertown Multi-Ethnic Community A revitalization/restart of a historic Black 2018 $20,000 congregation in Springfield, MA. After surviving

for many years without regular pastoral An English-speaking Emerging Gospel leadership or support from the presbytery, Community cultivated for people of diverse having recently established a new partnership racial, cultural, linguistic, and national with the presbytery under new leadership, backgrounds. this community is embarking on a journey to explore the possibilities that lie under the surface for new vitality, new life, and new opportunities for service in the community.

15 16 WHARTON UNITED COMMUNITY CHURCH

“At Wharton United Community Church, we pray with our eyes open! We are a community of faith-filled people, the hands and feet of the Body of Christ, working together with the dynamic community around us: a place where all people are loved, accepted and supported.”

With eyes wide open, Wharton United Community Church was able to see the changing needs of its neighborhood. For 15 years, the church had provided a food pantry in the community, feeding some 40 families each week. As people moved into the community from around the world, what was once a homogenous small town became an internationally-seeded community with a growing Spanish-speaking population.

The folks at Wharton found that their hearts were drawn to do more with and for their neighbors than provide food to put on the table—they wanted to provide ways to gather around the table together. Without fully knowing how to tackle language barriers and cultural difference, Hope’s Table Community Center was born. Community and church members now serve one another, through language and ESL classes, mentoring, and sharing of stories. Many community members also join in worship as well.

ROC SALT (ROCHESTER SERVICE AND LEARNING TOGETHER) “We’re learning to ROC SALT Mission Center links spiritual reflection with hands-on mission by connecting groups to urban neighbors in the city of Rochester, NY and surrounding communities around issues of poverty and justice. invite and do ministry ROC SALT Mission Center is transforming a historic building, in a vital Rochester neighborhood, into a ministry that will impact lives, build relationships, break down barriers and celebrate the Gospel’s power together rather than and hope. offering ministry to Building on existing relationships between Presbyterians and ecumenical as well as secular partners, ROC SALT takes on the daunting realities of poverty in Rochester, NY. Among cities of its size, nationwide, the community in one Rochester ranks 2nd in overall poverty (33.8%), 1st in child poverty (52.5%) and 3rd in concentration of those living in extremely poor neighborhoods. direction.” — Wharton United community member With food insecurity—a core issue facing poor neighborhoods—as an entry point, ROC SALT is building on the foundation of a food pantry and community garden on the grounds of the former church to grow an interconnected community dedicated to addressing the systemic issues that give rise to poverty.

“You are the salt of the earth.” —Matthew 5:13

17 18 SYNOD-WIDE NETWORKS In addition to the networks and ministries highlighted in this section, the Synod continues to support the Livewire Network, Presence: Immigration Network, New Beginnings, and Northern New York COM.

The Coaching Network narratives of the Native people within the As the natural evolution of the Synod-wide Church and the Synod. The Synod is also The first Network established as part of the New working to follow up with agencies of the Networks has come to include ecumenical and Way Forward continues to integrate coaching PCUSA on proposals that have been approved, as a tool in the Synod’s work of leadership but not implemented, as we commit to forming interfaith relations, as well as social justice witness, development. The Presbyterian Mission Agency a space of self-determination, relationship and joined the efforts of the Synod to ensure that encouragement for Native Americans in our the working group is planning to reframe its work faith leaders within our bounds have access to region. as connectional ministries. coaching. Poor People’s Campaign: Mediation Network A National Call for a Moral Revival

This work will seek to foster the gospel presence The goal of mediation is to achieve The intersectionality of the Poor People’s reconciliation in Christ by mutual agreement Campaign: A National Call for a Moral Revival of Presbyterians throughout the Northeast in without having to resort to the judicial process (PPC) has captured the imagination of many of a remedial or disciplinary complaint. The Presbyterians, especially in New Jersey, New networks, relational ministries, and partnerships. Mediation Network is a community of trained York, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. mediators who are committed to helping the The moral issues of systemic racism, poverty church and its members resolve conflicts in a and inequality, and ecological devastation constructive and collaborative manner. The clearly intersect and challenge us as a regional goal is to have at least two mediators from community to respond. The witness of many of every presbytery of the Synod. our leaders and congregations already speaks to our shared commitment. Funding provided Native American Ministries last year to new ecumenical partners was, in part, because of their organizing work on behalf Working together with Wright Memorial of the Poor People’s Campaign. These partners Presbyterian Church and the Jimersontown include the Labor-Religion Coalition of New Presbyterian Church in Western New York York State, Faith in New Jersey, New Hampshire Presbytery—congregations in the Seneca Council of Churches, to name but a few. Nation of Indians—and the Shinnecock Presbyterian congregation of Long Island Presbyterians throughout the region continue Presbytery, the Synod is seeking to facilitate to be engaged in the learning and activism of a connection among our Native American the PPC. The PPC—at the national and state leaders and a conversation around resourcing levels—is providing activism strategies in for their ministries. Through this partnership, support of workers, the poor, and communities we will be honoring their respective histories, of color as these are particularly affected inviting spiritual, scriptural, and theological communities by the political and financial dialogue among traditions, and addressing consequences of the current health crisis. the current missional challenge of bridging the transformational message of the gospel with the spiritually and culturally grounding

19 20 SYNOD ASSEMBLY MISSION + MINISTRIES COMMISSION

Work and Life of the Synod The Synod Assembly is the full The Commission gathers 3 times each governing body of the Synod, year to do the work of the Synod between comprising representatives from each assemblies. Each presbytery is asked to in the New Way Forward presbytery (2 ruling elders, 2 teaching nominate 3 candidates for commission elders/ministers, 1 YAAD). The representative, from which the Synod Assembly convenes every two years Leadership Team elects one candidate in even years to worship, meet, and from each presbytery to create the conduct the business of the Synod. greatest diversity and parity possible.

SSEMBLY D A NO SY COMMISSION WORKING GROUPS RIES COMMI IST SSI IN ON M + The New Way Forward restructured the Synod, moving away from committees to working groups. The N IO Synod Leadership Team assigns Commissioners to a working group in which the specific work related to S S ION I ISS grants, missional support, networks, connectional ministries, administrative and governance tasks are M M — undertaken at each commission meeting.

— Mission A COMMISSION D

M The Mission Working Group seeks to find and nurture innovative ministries and gospel communities

I

WORKING N

I S

GROUPS S wherever they are emerging within the Synod. Working together with local leaders, presbyteries,

T K

R

R congregations, and campus ministries, the Mission Working Group helps to draw out and refine the

A

O

T

W

I vision, purpose, and potential sustainability of ministries, setting them on a path to thrive and grow.

V T

E E

N

— Networks (Connectional Ministries)

The Networks Working Group actively works to identify shared passions for ministry across the synod and to connect those who have a common bond through these ministries that might not otherwise be forged across the geographic or structural boundaries that separate them. We connect, facilitate gatherings, and strengthen a sense of mutuality to deepen and broaden the potential for ministry throughout our region in diverse and meaningful ways.

Administrative

The Administrative Working Group handles the business related to all the work of the Synod, ensuring that funding and stewardship are responsibly balanced, mission and vision priorities are respected, and the life of the synod continues in a healthy and highly functional way. From budget to human resources, to logistics, the Administrative Working Group brings the New Way Forward to life for the benefit of the whole Synod.

21 22 Strengthening Communities

Fortaleciendo Comunidades BUILDING STRONG, HEALTHY FUTURES HEALTHY BUILDING STRONG, 공동체를 강화하기

23 24 PRESBYTERIES PRESBYTERY PER CAPITA CONTRIBUTIONS

As the presbyteries of the Synod of the Northeast 2018 2019 TOTALS continue to serve their member congregations and Albany $20,754.00 $22,103.98 $42,857.98 look for new ways to be the church that is needed Boston $9,787.00 $8,466.50 $18,253.50 now and for the future, the Synod has engaged in Cayuga/Syracuse $16,110.00 $15,418.36 $31,528.36 Eastern Korean $25,449.00 $25,839.56 $51,288.56 conversations to facilitate their creative work. Elizabeth $32,400.00 $31,246.10 $63,646.10 Genesee Valley $38,828.00 $35,781.62 $74,609.62 In New Jersey and Central New York, As one member of the team expressed it, “I Geneva $21,037.00 $20,044.90 $41,081.90 conversations were begun to explore envision the presbyteries in New Jersey being “missional structures” for serving together transformed into the kind of communities that Hudson River $45,707.00 $44,704.04 $90,411.04 across existing presbytery bounds. The story provide the blue sky for people to thrive in their Long Island $27,938.00 $30,793.31 $58,731.31 of New Jersey’s journey has unfolded over four call to living the gospel in their communities.” phases, as outlined here. Monmouth $26,560.00 $24,891.60 $51,451.60 The group formed a Missional Communities of New Brunswick $32,547.00 $30,955.00 $63,502.00 In February, 2019, the presbyteries in New New Jersey Transitional Working Group, which Jersey were invited to consider how they might entered into the 2020 fiscal year with a four New York City $54,313.00 $25,000.00 $79,313.00 work together in new ways. Recognizing that phase plan to further explore and ultimately Newark $21,964.00 $21,246.20 $43,210.20 “the Church’s ministries and methods in the to realize the structural change that the 21st Century are changing, and we discern that presbyteries had envisioned. Newton $43,271.00 $41,816.04 $85,087.04 God’s provision for our ministry is taking a new N. New England form: we wish to explore a structure with fewer These phases include: $10,213.00 $9,805.87 $20,018.87 separate entities and greater collaboration, N. New York $9,210.00 $9,010.36 $18,220.36 bringing about a new state-wide missional 1. Completion of design details and community.” navigation of logistics Palisades $25,789.00 $25,075.60 $50,864.60 2. Adoption of recommendations from S. New England $29,073.00 $26,699.20 $55,772.20 Working over the course of the year, the Design & Implementation Team by representatives from seven presbyteries each presbytery and the Synod’s Mission Susquehanna Valley $13,707.00 $13,079.82 $26,786.82 gathered to consider the possibilities & Ministry Commission (or the Synod Utica $11,237.00 $10,601.37 $21,838.37 for working together. The group worked Assembly) together to review the legal issues, resources, 3. Approval process by the General Assembly W. New York $34,471.00 $36,444.90 $70,915.90 commitments and ministries that would be (or GA Mid-council Commission) West Jersey $37,141.00 $35,617.72 $72,758.72 affected by reconfiguring the presbyteries’ 4. Begin life in our new Missional operational and missional plans. Communities

TOTALS $587,506.00 $544,642.05 $1,132,148.05

25 26 PRESBYTERY CONTRIBUTIONS TOTAL SUPPORT FOR PRESBYTERIES

The following presbyteries contributed to the We provide support to our member presbyteries mission support of the Synod Community with in numerous ways. contributions totalling $247,883 in 2018 and 2019. One of those ways is through funding to help support local, innovative, and emerging ministries within their geographic region.

Albany $14,135.00 New York City $4,350.00 Albany $27,600.00 New York City $103,580.00

Boston $8,153.00 Newark $10,755.00 Boston $91,000.00 Newark $15,500.00

Cayuga/Syracuse $6,227.00 Newton $6,831.00 Cayuga/Syracuse $22,020.00 Newton $14,700.00

Eastern Korean $20,120.00 N. New England $385.00 Eastern Korean $35,000.00 N. New England $61,500.00

Elizabeth $28,006.00 N. New York $26,719.00 Elizabeth $24,800.00 N. New York $50,300.00

Genesee Valley $17,676.00 Palisades $2,451.00 Genesee Valley $74,700.00 Palisades $2,500.00

Geneva $83.00 S. New England $12,427.00 Geneva $2,000.00 S. New England $40,300.00

Hudson River $15,017.00 Susquehanna Valley $7,664.00 Hudson River $24,700.00 Susquehanna Valley $23,600.00

Long Island $14,405.00 Utica $17,821.00 Long Island $55,300.00 Utica —

Monmouth $5,354.00 W. New York $2,173.00 Monmouth $13,800.00 W. New York $22,000.00

New Brunswick $6,973.00 West Jersey $20,158.00 New Brunswick $109,800.00 West Jersey $6,700.00

27 28 28 PRESBYTERY CONTRIBUTIONS

This table shows annual mission giving by 2018 2019 TOTALS presbytery for 2018 and 2019 respectively. New York City $2,002.00 $2,348.00 $4,350.00

Newark $4,454.00 $6,301.00 $10,755.00 2018 2019 TOTALS

Albany $4,000.00 $10,135.00 $14,135.00 Newton $3,885.00 $2,946.00 $6,831.00

Boston $4,560.00 $3,593.00 $8,153.00 N. New England $385.00 — $385.00

Cayuga/Syracuse $3,383 .00 $2,844.00 $6,227.00 N. New York $12,060.00 $14,659.00 $26,719.00

Eastern Korean $9,810.00 $10,310.00 $20,120.00 Palisades $1,323.00 $1,128.00 $2,451.00

Elizabeth $17,830.00 $10,176.00 $28,006.00 S. New England $6,216.00 $6,211.00 $12,427.00

Genesee Valley $9,402.00 $8,274.00 $17,676.00 Susquehanna Valley $3,912.00 $3,752.00 $7,664.00

Geneva — $83.00 $83.00 Utica $9,178.00 $8,643.00 $17,821.00

Hudson River $7,967.00 $7,050.00 $15,017.00 W. New York $1,273.00 $900.00 $2,173.00

Long Island $6,955.00 $7,450.00 $14,405.00 West Jersey $9,951.00 $10,207.00 $20,158.00

Monmouth $2,549.00 $2,805.00 $5,354.00 TOTALS $125,376.00 $122,507.00 $247,883.00

New Brunswick $4,281.00 $2,692.00 $6,973.00

29 30 TOTAL SUPPORT FOR PRESBYTERIES

This table shows the grant funding received by each 2018 2019 TOTALS presbytery in 2018 and 2019 respectively. New York City $33,000.00 $70,580.00 $103,580.00

Newark $5,000.00 $10,500.00 $15,500.00 2018 2019 TOTALS

Albany $19,000.00 $8,600.00 $27,600.00 Newton — $14,700.00 $14,700.00

Boston $64,500.00 $26,500.00 $91,000.00 N. New England $40,500.00 $21,000.00 $61,500.00

Cayuga/Syracuse $10,000.00 $12,020.00 $22,020.00 N. New York $50,000.00 $300.00 $50,300.00

Eastern Korean — $35,000.00 $35,000.00 Palisades — $2,500.00 $2,500.00

Elizabeth $11,000.00 $13,800.00 $24,800.00 S. New England $20,000.00 $20,300.00 $40,300.00

Genesee Valley $46,500.00 $28,200.00 $74,700.00 Susquehanna Valley $12,000.00 $11,600.00 $23,600.00

Geneva — $2,000.00 $2,000.00 Uitica — — —

Hudson River $21,000.00 $3,700.00 $24,700.00 W. New York $10,000.00 $12,000.00 $22,000.00

Long Island $47,000.00 $8,300.00 $55,300.00 West Jersey — $6,700.00 $6,700.00

Monmouth $11,000.00 $2,800.00 $13,800.00 TOTALS $459,500.00 $361,900.00 $821,400.00

New Brunswick $59,000.00 $50,800.00 $109,800.00

31 32 Partnerships PUERTO RICO The Synod of the Northeast had established CUBA a strong bond and open channel of communication with the Boriquén Synod When relations with Cuba were restored in 2015, in Puerto Rico well before the tragedy of the Synod of the Northeast began to explore Hurricane Maria struck the island in 2017. ways to connect with the strong community of Since our initial response and partnership with church partners that is active in that country. the impacted presbyteries in the wake of that disaster, we have maintained our relationship The Presbytery in Cuba was once part of the on many levels. Synod of New Jersey. Now, 50 years after the founding of the national Cuban Presbyterian The Rev. Danilie C. Hilerio-Villanueva, and church, there are three presbyteries in Cuba. Michelle Muñiz, and Rev. José González-Colón Although times and structures have changed, were among the partners from Puerto Rico who there is a keen awareness—on both sides—of came to lead workshops at Come to the Table the history of relationship between our synod 2019, as well as continuing our ongoing work and the presbyteries of Cuba; a relationship that between our two synods. continues today. “It is a profound Rev. González-Colón reminded us that In times In an effort to forge a deeper connection of rapid change, economic and environmental between the Synod and presbytery leadership in experience to crisis, churches must learn to navigate Cuba, the Synod sent a delegation to meet with through volatility and instability. He shared a Cuban counterparts in November of 2018. Led by do theological historical framework, case studies and shared Elder Jacinth Hanson, Synod Moderator, a group experiences demonstrating the gifts and skill of staff and New Jersey leaders established reflection with sets necessary to minister in times of rapid connections with the goal of sustaining a mutual transitions. Our attempt is to view change as an commitment in partnership with Cuban leaders. people of a opportunity rather than a threat. One of those leaders is The Rev. Dora Arce- different cultural Valentín, pastor of San Antonio de los Baños Rev. Hilerio-Villanueva and Ms. Muñiz shared Presbyterian-Reformed Church and Moderator of background and the scope of disaster recovery efforts in the Synod of the Presbyterian-Reformed Church Northwest Puerto Rico, diving into the in Cuba also came to Stony Point to lead one of language. How complexities of the rural mountain and coastal the workshops at Come to the Table 2019 and to towns access to short term aid; coping with visit with local presbytery leaders. they feel, see, hear, long term recovery in housing infrastructure, communication and electrical grids, as well “It is clearly the spirit that keeps their faith and express their as water supply. We explore changes in our going. They have a hunger towards sacredness local communities providing opportunities for and worship that we often seem to have lost. faith as people is mission, engagement and service.

The Cuban church was repressed until 1990. different from us Our partnership with Puerto Rico has Our relationship now needs to be less about and we can learn deepened, spiritual, historical, and moral charity and giving money so much as simple connections that equip us for the continued accompaniment.” much from them.” need for ministry in times of crisis. Initiatives EARLY MINISTRY INSTITUTE YOUNG MINISTRY LEADERS Early Ministry Institute (EMI) is a long-standing The Young Ministry Leaders Initiative strives to and highly-regarded ministry of the Synod. Its identify, connect, and support a community of SERVANT LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE three-year program is designed to encourage peers for younger leaders. We define “young and support pastors in their first call. ministry leaders” as people in their 20s and 30s Ever striving to build up leadership in innovative and nurturing ways, the Synod of the Northeast who are actively engaged in ministry in a variety established the Servant Leadership Institute in 2018 to play a more meaningful and active role in shaping EMI picks up where traditional seminary of settings within the Synod’s bounds. Many are leadership within the presbyteries of our synod. education leaves off, and journeys alongside ordained as teaching elders, ruling elders, or new leaders in the critical first years when the deacons, but ordination is not required. The Servant Leadership Institute seeks to develop, nurture, and deploy leaders that are committed practicalities of ministry can be surprising and to working collaboratively with the diverse communities of the Synod; leaders who will meet the even isolating. The purpose of EMI is to center The group’s activities are evolving as the needs complex challenges of church in the 21st Century with creativity and a ground-up perspective. Areas of on God’s call, and to reflect how Christ is part of of these leaders become evident, but so far development include relationship development and management, communications, creative problem our ministry, to consider the ongoing life of the they have begun gathering annually as a synod- solving, emotional intelligence, and resilience. congregation, and to take a look at the church wide group for community and connection. as it interacts with the surrounding world. These gatherings have been critical in helping our young ministry leaders connect with one another, identify some of the particular joys and challenges they share, and begin establishing “EMI gave me ways ways to collaborate with and support one another. A social media community has also of looking at ministry been formed, and we hope to develop these that would have taken and other connections further.

me so much longer to PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN

come to on my own— Presbyterian Women in the Synod of the Northeast exists to build community and affirm if I came to them at all! women’s calls to leadership. The relevance and strength of Presbyterian Women has continued Knowing that others to serve the Church in ever evolving ways. The ability of Presbyterian Women to organize and are in this with me drive initiatives throughout our communities is a well known quality of the leadership they gave me courage when bring at every level. Presbyterian Women I needed it most.” (PW) in the Synod serves as a link between Presbyterian Women in the presbyteries and Presbyterian Women Church-wide. Their vision is “springs of living water bringing new life to women,” and they live out their faith by focusing on the tenets of the Presbyterian Women Purpose.

35 36 ROBERT WASHINGTON SCHOLARS RULING ELDER LUCI DUCKSON BRAMBLE

Luci Duckson Bramble is the embodiment of servant leadership. A graduate of Coulter Memorial Academy, a Presbyterian school in For years, she has faithfully served the church in its the Cheraw, South Carolina, Robert L. Washington received his degree congregational, presbytery, synod and national life. From her in Christian Education in 1942. He dedicated his life to teaching, and childhood in Philadelphia where she learned community service creating opportunities to further the church, civil rights and as a Girl Scout, church youth leader, and hospital volunteer, Luci economic equality. has continued a life and career focused on others. She currently serves a Chief Fund Development Officer for the Girl Scouts of In the Presbyterian Church he served in all levels: at the General Nassau County, making a difference in the lives of nearly 19,000 Assembly, the Synod of the Northeast, the Presbytery of New York girls and young women every day. City and the Session of Rendall Memorial Presbyterian Church in Harlem, NY. It is in his memory and honor that this program has been As a Robert Washington Scholar, Luci is exploring her faith and established. developing spiritually in an academic environment, and enjoying the opportunity to work collaboratively with diverse scholars The Robert Washington Scholars program honored its first cohort of who are interested in developing skills to lead in other areas leaders on June 1, 2018. These first scholars, Rev. Mario Bolivar, Rev. of the denomination. This training will allow Luci to bring new Hyon Kim and Rev. Terri Ofori represent the essence and vitality in dimensions of service to her work with the National Coalition ministry that forms the heart of this program. of Black Women, the Association of Fund Raising Professionals, Soroptimist International Nassau County, and Long Island The 2018-2019 Scholars are Luci Duckson Bramble and Erin Hayes Cook. Women’s Agenda, and as a Ruling Elder of the Presbyterian Church, with all the opportunities for ministry she gladly embraces.

REV. ERIN HAYES COOK

A graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary (‘05), The Reverend Erin Hayes Cook served two churches in the Philadelphia area as a youth director and director of Christian education in her early years of ministry before moving to become a Transitional Pastor in Rahway, NJ. At the heart of Erin’s call is loving communities who find themselves in the middle of transition, spanning cultures, and Robert Washington seeking to do more with their gifts. Growing up bi-racial gave her the skills to navigate these challenges. She became a minister in 1923 — 2015 the Presbyterian church in 2013. With her participation in the Robert Washington Scholars program, Erin is excited to add to her skills for the ever-changing landscape of leadership in our Christian context. She is also excited to get to know other leaders who may be facing similar challenges and joys, and with whom she can become thinking partners.

37 CAMPUS MINISTRY

The Synod’s commitment to lift up and include 2018 2019 TOTALS young voices is reflected in our ongoing commitment New Brunswick Presbytery to campus minsitry within our bounds. Rutgers University $10,000.00 $8,500.00 $18,500.00 Princeton University $10,000.00 $5,500.00 $15,500.00 While the church often laments the lack of youth participation among congregations, campus ministry funding overall has decreased. As an instrument of connectional ministry, the Synod is supporting these ministries so that young people and leaders know we value them and their unfolding journey of faith. New York City Presbytery — Columbia University — $3,000.00 $3,000.00

Northern New England Presbytery University of Maine $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 2018 2019 TOTALS Plymouth State University $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 University of New Hampshire $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 Albany Presbytery University of Vermont $1,000.00 $1,500.00 $2,500.00 Russel Sage College $3,000.00 $2,500.00 $5,500.00 Union College $3,000.00 $2,000.00 $5,000.00 University of Albany $3,000.00 $2,000.00 $5,000.00 Susquehanna Valley Presbytery Cornell University $3,000.00 $2,000.00 $5,000.00 SUNY Cortland Genesee Valley Presbytery $3,000.00 $2,000.00 $5,000.00 Nazareth College $2,500.00 $2,000.00 $4,500.00 SUNY Delhi $3,000.00 $3,000.00 $6,000.00 University of Rochester $15,000.00 $10,500.00 $25,500.00 Ithica College $3,000.00 $2,500.00 $5,500.00

Long Island Presbytery Western New York Presbytery — Hofstra University — $2,500 $2,500.00 SUNY Buffalo $10,000.00 $8,500.00 $18,500.00 LIU Post Campus $3,000.00 $2,500.00 $5,500.00 Stony Brook University $3,000.00 — $3,000.00 Bloomfield College (PCUSA) —$40,000.00 $40,000.00 $80,000.00

TOTALS $118,500.00 $105,000.00 $223,500.00

39 40 TOTAL GIVEN IN 2018-19 LEADERSHIP The Synod is pleased to have provided the following contributions through investment in ministries and gospel communities within our Jacinth Hanson Leslie Latham Warren McNeill geographic boundaries. These investments were in Moderator Moderator-Elect Moderator of the Mission and addition to the many hours of support provided Ministries Commission by our dedicated staff and volunteers.

Campus Ministry $223,500.00 Harold Delhagen Nancy Talbot Alan Ford Synod Leader Stated Clerk Treasurer Innovation Grants $681,000.00

STAFF Synod Networks $30,758.00

Presbytery Support $52,562.00

Youth Trienneum $46,900.00

Harold Delhagen Nancy Talbot Amaury Lori Hylton Synod Leader Stated Clerk Tañón-Santos Administrative Ecumenical Giving $22,000.00 Synod Networker Coordinator

TOTAL $1,056,720.00

Fran Klaiber Stacy Galloway Manager of Finance Finance Clerk

41 42 Synod of the Northeast SynodNE.org 5811 Heritage Landing Drive, 2nd Floor (315) 446-5990 East Syracuse, NY 13057-9360

Provided by Vandersall Collective