This past weekend I was honored to attend the Gathering of the Presbyteries of Mid-Kentucky, Transylvania, and Western Kentucky (since we have seven churches in Kentucky too), a first for all of us.  And because all four of the Presbyters – the Reverends John Odom, Philip Lotspeich, and Ken Dick, plus moi – really like each other, and know we have things to learn from one another.  They are always invited to our Saturday workshop Gatherings, too.

One of the foundational elements of PC(USA) is connection.  We talk about being a connectional church – with the national denomination, within the Synod of the Covenant, and now across Synod and Presbytery bounds.  Even just within the Presbytery of Cincinnati, our foundation is that the Presbytery is a resource and relational catalyst to all our member churches.  All your leadership works hard to offer our churches the very best we can to helpkeep you relevant – to your congregations, to your communities, and to the Kingdom.  Meeting with fellow Presbyteries expands our connections, and so now we have Beloved Community across the Commonwealth!

Besides meeting up in person, albeit masked (the pictures only show presenters) the highlightwas a day with the Rev. Dr. Bruce Reyes-Chow, who did a workshop on church after the pandemic and a talk on his new book, Kindness.  It’s something we will pursue as a Presbytery-wide book study this year, building up our own Beloved Community.

Beloved Community, the Presbytery of Cincinnati is always looking for new ways to support you, encourage you, and help you thrive.  We pray for you daily. 

Beloved Community – let’s hold up the Light and Love of our Lord together in Cincinnati, in Indiana, and of course – in Kentucky. 

Blessings to you all.