I am calling for prayer for the many challenges the Presbyterian Mission Agency (PMA) in working with the 1001 Worshipping Community program.  After a lengthy and expensive investigation into the improper creation and funding of a newly formed California 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, four individuals at the national level of the church were dismissed.  My prayers are with all who work with Executive Director Linda Valentine and Marilyn Gamm, Chair of the Presbyterian Mission Agency Board  (PMA)….and those who were dismissed–Roger Dermody, Eric Hoey, Philip Lotspeich, and Craig Williams.   .

Please lift up in prayer all who are involved in this process as no one should be demonized.  We are all still one part of the Body of Christ and graciousness in all things must be maintained.”  (Bruce Reyes, Chow, former Moderator of the PCUSA)[1] 

These are challenging times in our beloved church.  The issue of trust in the work of the Presbyterian Mission Agency will be hanging over many in the church as dark clouds break and trust in national leaders is restored.  I was recently reminded by a colleague that what happens at the national levels of the church has an impact on all of us because we are a connectional church.  Thus the need for all in our church to pray for the restoration of trust at all levels within our church.

We are connectional.  We are not part of a “them/us” church.  We are all members of the one body of Christ.   While it is true we have stubbed our toe at the national level, it’s going to take all of us working together to help this injury heal.

May God continue to help grow and move forward as the Presbyterian Church U.S.A.  While we heal, we need to hold our entire church in prayer.

For more information about the issue that has been hanging over the Presbyterian Mission Agency and our entire church, look at the articles found in Presbyterian Outlook.

The most recent article:    http://pres-outlook.org/2015/06/1001-inquiry-continues-to-unfold-executive-director-review-planned-investigation-report-still-private/

[1]   PC(USA) Ethics Violations and 1001 New Worshiping Communities Controversy