Session Update

Pastor’s Report

Pastor Norsworthy informed Session members that after much prayer and discernment he will retire February 1^st of 2022.

Atlanta Presbytery representatives – Cassandra Morrow and Steve Cashwell were on hand to explain the recommended search process toward identifying and calling a new pastor. Utilization of an Interim Pastor Process was explained as the method that has the most success. Important in the process is allowing enough time for the congregation to mourn the departure of their pastor which develops a clean slate for the incoming pastor. Such a process lessens the tendency to compare the new pastor to the last pastor which facilitates the congregation’s acceptance of the new pastor. There will be an upcoming Q&A called session meeting where current elders and our new elders elect will have an opportunity to have their questions answered. Steve Cashwell will be JCPC’s liaison during the next year as we appoint an interim pastor nominating committee and elect a pastor nominating committee. The session will keep the congregation apprised as the process unfolds.

Pastoral Care

Please keep our members, church families, and friends in your prayers. Many are dealing with end-of-life, memory, and care issues. Others are undergoing medical evaluations. And still others are in the process of healing after injury or surgery.

Meetings

• There will be a called Congregational meeting on December 12^th following the 11:00 AM Lessons and Carols service. This will be a combined in-person and online event. The purpose of the meeting is to elect the new slate of elders. A quorum of membership is required. Please attend this important part of our church governance.

• There will be a called Session meeting on January 8^th at 12:30 PM for the purpose of examining members of the new elder class. Installation of the new elders will occur at the 11:00 AM January 9^th worship service.

Mission Teams

• Caring- The Safe Harbor luncheon event was well received by the fifteen attendees.
• Connecting- Will distribute education team prepared Advent materials with our Giving Thanks Meals.
• Education- JCPC welcomes Colleen Moore as the Interim Coordinator of Christian Education. Search for a permanent director continues with planned feedback sessions. Please offer your opinions. Youth group prepared meals for men’s shelter and had a great retreat to Fort Yargo State Park.
• Missions- Pumpkin Patch was a resounding success. Thanks to all who supported and participated. Almost $4,000 was raised for mission expenses. JCPC members donated 63 frozen turkey breasts to Hands for Christ.
• Stewardship- The Give, GO, Live, Again campaign continues. If you have not done so, please make your 2022 pledge soon as next year’s budget is pending based on the campaign results.
• Worship- Hanging of the Greens prep on Tuesday November 23^rd. Poinsettias arrive December 3^rd. Volunteers needed for both dates. New worship banners purchased with funds given in memory of Barbara Snelling have been received and display options are being evaluated.

Prayer for Today

And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

                                                                                                                                                           Hebrews 13:16