A Church in the Northeast 1 of 7 Honored for Inspiring and Innovative Ministry Programs

Dear Friends,

Join with me in congratulating the Presbytery of Western New York and the Westminster Presbyterian Church in Buffalo for being selected for a Congregational Leadership Award.

Westminster Presbyterian Church in Buffalo received the Katherine Hawes Award, which recognizes ministries that engage youth in all areas of the church’s mission, extending beyond the church into the community and the world. The youth fundraise all year for an annual mission trip to Hartford, Maine, where they assist the community in preparing for winter. The youth bunk and worship daily with the Hartford Community Church. The Hartford church then sends their youth group to reciprocate in the Buffalo community.  A bond was formed between two communities that dwell 600 miles apart but only inches apart in mission.

This Congregational Leadership Award of $1000 was given by Union Presbyterian Seminary.  To be considered for an award, the church must show a significant change in their congregation as a cause or result of an initiative, a high level of congregational support, participation by diverse groups, personal growth of leaders and participants, a spirit of cooperation and partnership, and understanding of the needs and gifts of the congregation and the community.

Blessings,

Liz

Elizabeth V. McDowell Representative, Synod of the Northeast Seminary Support Network