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Summer Reflections: More Than Just a Vacation

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word summer comes from the Old English sumor, which itself traces back to the Proto-Germanic sumra. Similar versions appear in Dutch (zomer) and German (Sommer), with the root stretching to the Proto-Indo-European sam- or sem-, meaning “together” or “one.” How fitting that the very word for this season is tied to ideas of unity, gathering, and shared experience.

Visioning Teams Near Completion of Report, Set Final Gathering for August

The Synod’s Discernment and Visioning Teams gathered July 21–22 for a pivotal two-day meeting focused on deepening alignment around the evolving vision of the Synod. Building on over a year of prayerful work, community conversations, and collaborative discernment, the teams came together to finalize pillar recommendations and chart the path toward implementation. This meeting marked one of the final steps before releasing a comprehensive report that will guide the Synod’s next chapter.

Matthew 25 In Action: “Community Love Day” at New Mercy Church Brings Grace to the Streets of Hackensack

The Matthew 25 Initiative reminds us that the heart of the gospel is not found only in words, but in action—in how we live, how we love, and how we serve. New Mercy Community Church in Hackensack, New Jersey, embodies this calling powerfully through its beloved ministry: Community Love Day. This vibrant, grassroots outreach aligns beautifully with all three focus areas of the Matthew 25 Initiative: Building Congregational Vitality, Dismantling Structural Racism, and Eradicating Systemic Poverty.

Emerging Gospel Communities Grant Webinar

June 26, 2025 10:30 AM and 7:00 PM   Are you dreaming of planting a new ministry? Revitalizing a congregation? Starting a fresh expression of church that reaches people right where they are? If so, the Synod of the Northeast’s Emerging Gospel Community Grant may be just the opportunity to help your vision come to life. We are here to help you take the first step. We’re excited to invite you to either of the two informational Zoom webinars designed to walk you through the application process for the Emerging Gospel Community Grant. This uplifting session will offer insight, inspiration, and practical tools to understand the grant criteria, help navigate our grant application system, craft a compelling proposal, and discern how God may be calling your emerging community to something new. Why Attend? Discover how the grant supports new worshiping communities, church plants, revitalization efforts, and innovative outreach ministries. Learn the key elements of a strong application, including mission clarity, leadership development, sustainability planning, and community engagement. Hear stories about past recipients whose ministries are thriving today because they dared to dream—and act in faith. Connect with Synod leaders and the Synod’s Grant Coordinator who are ready to walk alongside you on the journey. Whether your idea is still forming or you’re ready to apply, this webinar will be a hopeful space to learn, ask questions, and be encouraged by others walking a similar path. We believe God is stirring new life in communities across the church—and this grant might just be the catalyst your ministry needs. ¿Estás soñando con iniciar un nuevo ministerio? ¿Revitalizar una congregación? ¿Comenzar una nueva expresión de iglesia que alcance a las personas justo donde están? Si es así, la Subvención para Comunidades Evangélicas Emergentes del Sínodo del Nordeste puede ser la oportunidad que necesitas para hacer realidad tu visión. Estamos aquí para ayudarte a dar el primer paso. Nos emociona invitarte a uno de los dos seminarios informativos por Zoom, diseñados para guiarte en el proceso de solicitud de la Subvención para Comunidades Evangélicas Emergentes. Esta sesión inspiradora te ofrecerá orientación, motivación y herramientas prácticas para comprender los criterios de la subvención, navegar por nuestro sistema de solicitudes, redactar una propuesta convincente y discernir cómo Dios puede estar llamando a tu comunidad emergente a algo nuevo. ¿Por qué participar? • Descubre cómo la subvención apoya nuevas comunidades de adoración, plantaciones de iglesias, esfuerzos de revitalización y ministerios innovadores de alcance. • Aprende los elementos clave de una solicitud sólida, incluyendo claridad de misión, desarrollo de liderazgo, planificación de sostenibilidad y compromiso comunitario. • Escucha historias de personas beneficiarias anteriores, cuyos ministerios prosperan hoy porque se atrevieron a soñar—y a actuar con fe. • Conéctate con líderes del Sínodo y con la Coordinadora de Subvenciones, quienes están listos para acompañarte en este camino. Ya sea que tu idea apenas esté tomando forma o estés listo para postular, este seminario será un espacio esperanzador para aprender, hacer preguntas y recibir ánimo de quienes caminan un sendero similar. Creemos que Dios está despertando nueva vida en comunidades de toda la iglesia—y esta subvención podría ser el catalizador que tu ministerio necesita. Fecha: 26 de junio de 2025 Horarios: 10:30 AM y 7:00 PM – Escoge uno Modalidad: En línea Demos juntos este paso en fe. El Espíritu ya está obrando—ven y descubre cómo puedes ser parte. “¡Miren que realizo una nueva obra! ¿No se dan cuenta?” – Isaías 43:19 새로운 사역을 시작하는 꿈을 꾸고 계신가요? 한 교회를 새롭게 소생시키고 싶으신가요? 사람들이 있는 그 자리에서 만날 수 있는 새로운 형태의 교회를 시작하고 싶으신가요? 그렇다면, 미 북동부 대회의 **신흥 복음 공동체 보조금(Emerging Gospel Community Grant)**이 바로 여러분의 비전을 실현하는 데 도움이 될 기회일 수 있습니다. 저희는 여러분이 그 첫 걸음을 내딛을 수 있도록 돕고자 합니다. 신흥 복음 공동체 보조금 신청 과정을 안내하는 두 차례의 Zoom 웨비나 중 하나에 여러분을 초대하게 되어 기쁩니다. 이 격려와 희망이 가득한 세션에서는 보조금 기준을 이해하고, 신청 시스템을 효과적으로 사용하는 방법, 매력적인 제안서를 작성하는 방법, 그리고 하나님께서 여러분의 공동체를 어떤 새로운 일로 부르시는지 분별하는 데 필요한 통찰과 실질적인 도구를 제공해 드릴 것입니다. 왜 참석해야 할까요? • 이 보조금이 어떻게 새로운 예배 공동체, 교회 개척, 교회 갱신 사역, 혁신적인 선교 활동을 지원하는지 알 수 있습니다. • 사명의 명확성, 리더십 개발, 지속 가능성 계획, 지역사회 참여 등 강력한 신청서의 핵심 요소를 배울 수 있습니다. • 믿음으로 꿈꾸고 행동한 과거 수혜자들의 사역 이야기를 들을 수 있습니다. • 여러분의 여정에 동행할 대회 리더들과 보조금 담당자와 연결될 수 있습니다. 아이디어가 막 떠오르기 시작했든, 이제 신청할 준비가 되었든 상관없이, 이 웨비나는 배우고 질문하며, 같은 길을 걷는 다른 이들에게서 격려를 받을 수 있는 희망의 공간이 될 것입니다. 우리는 하나님께서 교회 전역의 공동체에 새 생명을 불어넣고 계시다고 믿습니다—그리고 이 보조금이 바로 여러분의 사역에 필요한 촉매제가 될 수 있습니다. 날짜: 2025년 6월 26일 시간: 오전 10시 30분 또는 오후 7시 – 하나를 선택해 주세요 진행 방식: 온라인 (등록 링크: [링크 삽입]) 믿음 안에서 함께 앞으로 나아갑시다. 성령님은 이미 일하고 계십니다—여러분도 그 일에 참여할 수 있는 방법을 찾아보세요. “보라, 내가 새 일을 행하리니 이제 나타날 것이라 너희가 그것을 알지 못하겠느냐?” – 이사야 43:19

Rev. Dr. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley Honored with the Maria Fearing Award

On June 19, at the 48th Biennial Meeting of the National Black Presbyterian Caucus (NBPC), Rev. Dr. SanDawna Gaulman Ashley was presented with the prestigious Maria Fearing Award. This award is bestowed upon women who serve the Church and community with bold vision, unwavering faith, and fearless resolve. Rev. Dr. Ashley was recognized for her exceptional and groundbreaking leadership within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). In nearly every role she has held, she has been the first African American woman to serve—demonstrating resilience, courage, and a pioneering spirit. Her impact has reached across national structures, mid councils, and classrooms where she has trained and mentored future leaders. Her former Dean, Rev. Dr. David Wallace, captured the essence of her legacy, stating: “You have stood where others might retreat, faced towering challenges with grace and grit, and dared to pursue dreams that once seemed unreachable. Your journey is not just inspiring—it is a beacon of hope, lighting the path for others to rise, to strive, and to believe.” Congratulations, Rev. Dr. Ashley, on receiving this well-deserved and distinguished honor!  

Visioning Process Update – June 2025

The Synod’s visioning process is progressing steadily and remains on track to deliver an exciting new structure and direction for our shared ministry. Rooted in faithful discernment, this work reflects our collective hope to reimagine the Synod as alive with imagination, shaped by diverse voices, and anchored in Gospel hope.

Report on the Indigenous Mission Day with Wright Memorial Church June 14, 2025

The plan for the Indigenous Mission Day in June included both Wright Memorial Presbyterian Church and Jimersontown Presbyterian Church. Unfortunately, due to a major gas leak at Jimersontown on the Wednesday before the event, we had to postpone that location. We were grateful that everyone who registered for the Jimersontown location joined Wright Memorial for their Mission Day instead. Because of this, we had about 20 people participate in Wright Memorial’s Mission Day in addition to the members of the church and their moderator. The morning began with a presentation by Flip White, member of the Tribal Council. He showed us a few examples of Wampum belts and explained that they are a symbolic representation of treaties, history, and cultural values. He explained that the three things the Seneca use to guide decision making are the people, environment and the future and gave examples from recent experiences of how these principles were lived out. After the presentation, church members explained what they would like done and we broke up into groups to get started. The tasks we accomplished were cleaning the sanctuary and kitchen, organizing a storage closet, repairing the handicap ramp, and landscaping the front of the church. Lunch was provided by Beanie who prepared food sourced from local farmers. We had bison burgers in gravy, fried fish, mashed potatoes, green beans and her special recipe for strawberry shortcake. The food was absolutely delicious, and we were all grateful for the love and care she put into preparing the meal. In addition to the cleaning, landscaping and ramp repair, it was gratifying to see relationships being created. Conversations between church members and volunteers included storytelling, sharing experiences and laughter. At the end of the day, the church members were incredibly pleased and grateful for all that was accomplished. This Mission Day connected the church and the Synod of the Northeast, as well as the Western New York and Genesee Valley Presbyteries. My hope is that this day brought greater understanding and respect for the struggles of the Seneca people and the faithful and resilient witness of the Wright Memorial Church for over 200 years. Mission Day Joint Worship Service Report Jimersontown and Wright Memorial Presbyterian Churches Date: June 15, 2025 Location: Wright Memorial Presbyterian Church   The Mission Day Joint Worship Service was a powerful and Spirit-filled gathering that united the congregations of Jimersontown Presbyterian Church and Wright Memorial Presbyterian Church, alongside members of the Western New York Presbyterian community. The service focused on community, reconciliation, and spiritual reflection, highlighting the collaborative work of the Native American Reconciliation Group and honoring the faithful witness of Indigenous and local congregations.   Worship Highlights Rev. Abigail TrautmannExecutive Presbyter and Stated Clerk, Western New York Presbytery Preached the meditation titled “Wait! There’s More?!”, based on Mark 10:17-31. Reflected on the call to deeper discipleship, justice, and communal responsibility. Explored the challenges of following Christ wholeheartedly and the hope that lies in God’s promises. Rev. Dr. Mary Lee TalbotModerator, Wright Memorial Church Served as Worship Leader and Communion Celebrant. Brought warmth and liturgical grounding to the service. Rev. Dr. Marvin AbramsWorship Leader, Jimersontown Church Assisted with Communion and brought a faithful presence of Jimersontown’s leadership. Sacrament of Communion: Presided over by Rev. Dr. Mary Lee Talbot and Rev. Dr. Marvin Abrams. A sacred moment of unity, remembrance, and recommitment.   Special Guests and Attendees Stanley Bhasker and Family From Brookville Presbyterian Church, Brookville, PA Attended with his wife, son, and daughter-in-law, showing ecumenical support. Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wickwire-Lundquist Member of the Anti-Racism Task Group and Native American Reconciliation Group Offered presence and encouragement for continued justice and healing work. Suzanne John Blacksnake Member of the Native American Reconciliation Group Represented Indigenous voices and perspectives in the service. Representative for Jimersontown Church   Following the worship service, a Community Potluck Lunch was held in the Fellowship Hall. Attendees shared food, stories, and fellowship, further strengthening the bonds between the two congregations and affirming the spirit of community that undergirds mission and worship.   This Joint Worship Service marked a meaningful step in partnership, healing, and spiritual growth among the congregations of Jimersontown and Wright Memorial and the broader Western New York Presbytery. With strong leadership, engaged participation, and shared commitment to justice and reconciliation, the event reflected the living body of Christ at work in the world.   Submitted by: Janis Quinn, Elder Wright Memorial Church

Connection to Transformation: Building a Partnership Culture in Faith Communities Conference

A Collaborative Conference with the New York Council of Churches The Synod of the Northeast, in collaboration with the New York Council of Churches, is excited to present: Connection to Transformation: Building a Partnership Culture in Faith Communities Conference Saturday, October 25, 2025 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. First Presbyterian Church 315 N. Cayuga Street Ithaca, New York This ecumenical and interfaith gathering will bring together leaders and communities from diverse faith traditions to explore how we build meaningful partnerships, deepen shared purpose, and move from connection to transformation. Together, we will imagine new ways of working across differences to embody justice, compassion, and the Gospel’s call to faithful collaboration. This gathering will bring together ecumenical and interfaith pastors, lay leaders, organizers, and community advocates from across the Central and Western New York region to explore how transformational partnerships can emerge when faith communities center connection, collaboration, and mutuality. Through worship, storytelling, interactive workshops, and keynote conversations, participants will reflect on how churches can move beyond transactional relationships toward deeper engagement that reflects the love and justice of Christ in our small towns and rural communities. Whether you serve in a local congregation, a nonprofit ministry, or an ecumenical initiative, this conference will offer tools and inspiration for building a culture of authentic partnership rooted in shared purpose and faith. Join us as we listen, learn, and reimagine the future of the Church and the communities we are called to serve. Together, we move from connection to transformation. Registration will open in July! Stay tuned for registration details and speaker announcements.

PRESBYTERIAN YOUTH TRIENNIUM

In support of Youth Triennium and to help defray the costs, the Synod will provide to each Presbytery $150 per participant, adult chaperone and any college age student who plans to help behind the scenes.  Presbyteries, please submit your list of names to the Synod Stated Clerk – Nancy.Talbot@synodne.org.  Late registration ends on July 3rd.