– by Suzanne Campise, Fund Development Intern
What’s most life-giving in your presbytery right now? What is most challenging?
These are the questions inspiring conversations across the Synod of the Northeast. Suzanne Campise, the Synod’s Fund Developer, has met with 8 presbyteries so far to hear and share their stories and contexts and to celebrate the creative ways they are being proactive in their communities. From congregations offering emergency response to their neighbors, to presbyteries supporting their youth and young adult ministries, the Spirit is moving in tangible and hopeful ways.
Suzanne intends to meet with all 19 presbyteries to walk alongside, resource, and help presbyteries and congregants connect with one another. “We are church together,” Suzanne says, “but the average person doing ministry in a congregation may not have a connection with their presbytery, synod or be aware of the opportunities available when we partner together in mission.”
These conversations seek to tell the story of the unique ways presbyteries are reimagining church for our times, and to invite the whole body of Christ into that work. Whether through innovative ministries, creative governance structures, leadership trainings, and capacity-building collaborations, God’s Spirit is alive in our congregations, presbyteries, and across our Synod.
As these conversations continue, she invites congregations and presbyteries to reflect:
What’s one thing the Synod can do this year that would have the most impact for your congregation, community or presbytery?
Your wisdom and experiences will help shape how the Synod partners with each presbytery in ministry, building on the life-giving work already happening among us.
Presbytery for Southern NJ and Leadership Council
