Summary of May meeting of the Synod of the Pacific

Executive Rob Brink reported on the many Overtures to General Assembly, particularly highlighting those which are asking for a review of the structure of Synods. He also noted that the closure of CPIP Insurance continues to have issues to be worked out. The Roseville and Fair Oaks churches have both had preliminary meetings with the Synod negotiating team, with very hopeful results so far. And the “Healthy Congregations” training, facilitated by Bob Conover, is being very well received in several of our presbyteries.

Bedford Holmes, Director of Zephyr Point, reported that things are going well in spite of the difficult economy. This delightful Conference Center on Lake Tahoe, though reasonably priced, is far below full occupancy. There are two new lodges with motel-like accommodations, as well as 40 cabins available for rent. Three goals for the future: to increase occupancy, to expand programs, and to pay down existing construction loans through a capital campaign. Come up for air at Zephyr Point!

During worship on Thursday evening, the Sacrament of Communion was celebrated and an offering of $559 was received for the Theological Education Fund.

Highlights from our presbyteries:

Presbytery of Eastern Oregon, covering 46,000 sq. miles, is excited about new mission programs! They DO a mission project at each presbytery meeting! And the Tutuilla church has 3 projects on PMX! The Pilot Rock church, earlier destroyed by fire, now has a building, chairs, sound system, baptismal font, and a keyboard! But they also still have a huge building debt due to the closure of CPIP. This Presbytery of 16 churches and 1100 people is one of the top 10 presbyteries in per capita mission giving in the PC(USA)! Congratulations!

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