September 2006 letters, page 2 Archives of letters to the editor

According to the new doctrine out of Louisville, only the property matters September 22, 2006 For Clifton Kirkpatrick and the hierarchy of the otherwise "connectional" PCUSA, a groundbreaking thing has happened. The PCUSA has finally defined the heretofore vague "essential tenets" to which ministers and elders swear to uphold. According to the new doctrine out of Louisville, only the property matters. Therefore the only "essential" deemed necessary to the preservation of the PCUSA as a Christian body is that Clifton and his cronies retain title to the properties as the sole and therefore "essential tenants." Martin Thompson A denomination in survival mode does not attract a move of God September 22, 2006 When a denomination's "unity" is dependent on the attempts of the bureaucracy to maintain control and "ownership" of a local church's property, that denomination is not long for this world. Without a common commitment to making disciples of Jesus and to "doing the will of God on earth as it is in heaven," coercion is all that is left. Coercion is born of fear and fear turns into panic. A denomination in survival mode does not attract a move of God. That requires repentant and tender hearts toward the Savior of the world. Rev. Tom Litteer First Presbyterian Church Sparta, N.J. 9-11 book listed on 'all things Presbyterian, all in one place' Web site September 22, 2006 In the Presbyterian News Service's article by Jerry Van Marter, PPC Board chair Kenneth Godshall stated "... This particular book is the work of an independent author and in no way represents the views of the denomination or PPC itself." If this statement were true, would the book be promoted on the PCUSA marketplace Web site so that it might be ordered from the Presbyterian Church (USA)? Carolyn Hughes Texas Stated clerk must stop PCUSA's crass, cynical and abusive behavior September 22, 2006 As a Christian, and a Presbyterian (in that order), I urge the stated clerk, Mr. Kirkpatrick, to fall on his knees and pray to our Father for guidance and decency. I am disgusted by the tactics and the behavior of this occupant of the high office of our denomination and his henchmen. Sir, you need guidance and the love of God would be your saving grace. Please, before you further solidify your place in the history of infamy, urge your seconds to cease and desist. This crass, cynical and abusive behavior must stop, at the cost of what is to be left of the denomination. After reading and re-reading the first chapter of Romans, what would the apostle have to say to YOU, sir? Michael Edwards Corinth, Miss. All the calls for repentance should be sobering September 22, 2006 Yet another warning: Jim Henkel [letter to the editor, posted Sept. 19, 2006] continues his impassioned plea for repentance and turning away from PCUSA's institutional sin. Thank God for Pastor Henkel. All the calls for repentance from people like Jim should be sobering. Not only have the PCUSA sins been piling up; there is also an impressive company of witnesses who have made their appeals for obedience to God's Word, to deaf ears! James Weldon Johnson, in his God's Trombones has the lines: Lightning flashes, Thunder roars, Makes me think of my poor soul. Come here, Jesus, come here please, Hear me, Jesus, on my knees. God is watching the daily pounding of new nails into his Son, not from a distance, but up close and personal. The Father is not mocked! Please, Jesus, touch someone's heart to listen. James H. Logan McHenry, Md. Hypocritical to say that churches ought to leave and yet remain as members September 22, 2006 OK, I have many frustrations with the PCUSA too. But, if you think the Kirk did the right thing and you're convinced the PCUSA is apostate, why are you members still of it? It seem totally hypocritical to say that churches ought to leave and to say the church has abandoned the Gospel and yet remain as members and clergy on the roll. You can't do both with credibility. You seem to want everyone to leave … when will you do what you're suggesting everyone else do? Or is the "Do what I say, not what I do." Al Sandalow Ellensburg, Wash. Where is our polity? September 22, 2006 So if all but one presbytery in PCUSA adopts such a proposal, then a homosexual minister from that one presbytery applies to enter another presbytery and is refused, where is our polity? Looks like exactly what the Episcopalian church is going through: Different beliefs under the same umbrella, some do not associate with others. Perhaps separation is the only answer. Dick Carter, elder Covenant Presbyterian Church Amarillo, Texas Time is not on our side. Act quickly or souls will be lost September 22, 2006 Re: PLC's statement on General Assembly I cannot subscribe entirely to The Layman's position for the following reasons: 1. No recourse is provided to individual Presbyterians who heartily endorse the quoted Helvetian & Scots Confessions but are left dangling on the prongs of a dilemma. That dilemma involves to a greater degree than is realized the retired ministers and spouses of the Presbyterian Church (USA), of whom I am one. Please remember us in the name of Jesus, who worship him with you in the active ministry. 2. Contrary to the opinion of some, time is not on our side. Act quickly, or many souls will be lost in the confusion of spiritual battle. You fine critics must take loving responsibility for getting on board the life boat of the ship of the Church of Jesus Christ those members who are still trying to remain afloat. Your genuine courage and spirituality as evidenced in Jim Wilkens' daily prayers are nonetheless received with gratitude. "Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, unto the ages of ages. Amen." Bob Hoffman Reader gets 'a chuckle' when perusing The Layman Online September 22, 2006 I do get a chuckle when perusing your Web site and glancing at all your serious concerns ... and they are serious. But you are so serious about them. It reminds me of last weeks lectionary reading from Proverbs. "I will laugh at your calamity: I will mock at you when panic strikes you, when panic strikes you like a storm, and your calamity come like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. Then they will come upon me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently will not find me." I suppose, Isaiah like, one could read that as directed to both The Layman and the PCUSA. But one of the sardonic laughs I have is that while The Layman lambastes the notion about presbyteries functioning as "bishops" and, rightly, castigating hierarchy as un-Presbyterian, you all keep spewing out all this stuff about Episcopal bishops and their call to "keep themselves apart." What's with that? David Moore Rensselear, N.Y. 'I don't see the love happening' between the Kirk and PCUSA September 22, 2006 I appreciate your article on the use of the word "hierarchical" as used by judges and leaders in our denomination. Certainly Presbyterians are far from being hierarchical. Likewise we are not congregational. I think your article implied we are representative but that is not even accurate. Actually Presbyterians are connectional. Yes, we do have representatives but the term representative in the secular world carries implications of prestige and power that are contrary to the ministry of Jesus. Rather Jesus demonstrated the fine example of us all being connected and equal as fellow believers. The fuss over property does make me think through my own faith journey. I grew up in a congregational church. I remember quite well joining that church as a member in my youth and being so excited about Jesus and being part of that community. In my joining I became connected. Later I decided to join a Presbyterian church and became connected once again. However the link to a denomination was much more apparent in this and I thought this to be a great idea. And I still do today. But I'm bothered by this fuss over property. On the one hand, I understand quite well how a church may feel out of touch and not that connected to a denomination anymore. I've felt that way as a member of other churches in the past. So my action was to leave the church and just seek another where I felt welcome. In the process I let go of my former church completely. In fact I even contributed a great deal of time and money in the former church but didn't expect that church to let me walk out with something tangible to reflect my investment such as a pew, some hymnbooks or other items I might treasure. Letting go was true freedom. I guess in the sense of a faith community it is somewhat different. There is the investing money in buildings and other infrastructure. Or is there? I clearly understand the debate and why people get so upset. What I don't understand is the obvious lack of compassion and unwillingness to just reach out to each other and talk. Neither the denominational leaders nor the Kirk of the Hills have done this from my perspective. Or at least it is not that apparent. Christ made it quite clear to love our enemies. That is something that any Christian believes no matter how they feel on certain other issues. I don't see the love happening anywhere in all of this from anyone on any side. Rather there is brokenness. Does it really make sense to take this to U.S. courts to be resolved like divorce? It may seem like sense but what would Jesus do (sorry for the cliché)? While I don't agree completely with what the leaders and members of the Kirk of the Hills feel on certain faith matters, I do admire them for taking a stand in a sense on something that is unpopular. I wish them well on their future journey of faith. I just wish somehow we could have all gotten along well before this came to this. I honestly still think it could have happened. Maybe it was not meant to be. In closing I feel the most important thing in life is to be connected to Jesus and each other. Maybe being connected extends beyond what we all think. Does anyone else have thoughts on this? Earl C. Apel, member Mount Auburn Presbyterian Church Cincinnati, Ohio 'Is it kind, is it true and is it necessary?' September 22, 2006 Would you have us believe that the PPC would publish a book critical of PCUSA? If so, where is it? Where is the adage "is it kind, is it true and is it necessary?" Larry Heinrich Book undermines the foundation of democracy our nation is built upon September 22, 2006 I was appalled that the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation would publish a book such as Christian Faith and the Truth Behind 9/11! Not only does it not have proof of the accusations made, but it is a very anti-American book. Books such as Christian Faith and the Truth Behind 9/11 by David Ray Griffin are undermining of our nation and the very foundation of democracy our nation is built upon. I have not read the book, but I have read your comments about the content of the book, and I think that it was a big mistake to print such material. To target a Christian's faith is an attack that God cannot overlook. Thankfully, he knows the truth of all that has been done in our country, and those who are falsely accusing. We have freedom of speech, but words that tear down our president with accusations that are blatant lies, with no evidence of their accuracy, are treason in themselves. Mavis Sturgis Moderator Gray, author of Presbyterian polity book, must talk with stated clerk September 19, 2006 I find it ironic that Louisville is claiming we are a hierarchical church. In the book I have used to train my elders, Presbyterian Polity For Church Officers (Second Edition), it states on page six: "Presbyterians believe that The New Testament uses the words 'bishop' and 'elder' to refer to the same office. This can be seen in Titus 1:5 and 1:7, as well as in Acts 20:17, 28. Thus, there is no hierarchy of presbyters in the Presbyterian Church; ministers of the Word and Sacrament differ only in the function they are called to perform. When functioning together in governing bodies, they are equals. We do not have bishops as in the Episcopal system of church government. At meetings of the church governing bodies all presbyters stand on the same footing, and decisions are made by majority vote of the whole body. Even those elected to be officers of governing bodies, moderators and clerks, have no individual authority outside the body. Their power is that which has been constitutionally assigned to them for their term of office by the governing body that elected them." The authors of this book are Joan S. Gray and Joyce C. Tucker. I suggest our Moderator Joan Gray show this passage to Mr. Clifton Kirkpatrick to remind him of our historic Presbyterian polity. The actions of our Louisville headquarters in the secret papers are unprecedented and are bold-faced lies. They are attempting to bluff their way through any actions an individual church proposes and are daring the church to call their bluff. It is time to show our outrage in our presbytery meetings and to call for repentance by Clifton Kirkpatrick and all those who are following their lead. I appeal to our moderator, Joan Gray, to try to talk some sense into these leaders who are the ones responsible for tearing up the church. Alan Wildsmith Pastor of the Murphy Presbyterian Church Presbytery of Western North Carolina PCUSA has detached from Christ-centered reality and moved to 'New-Ageism' September 19, 2006 For the last few years, I have not been affiliated with any particular Presbyterian congregation, for reasons unrelated to any of the issues of current concern. Nevertheless, I have continued to frequently attend Presbyterian and related Reformed churches, to keep track of what is going on in our denomination, and to pray for our members and leaders. It seems to me that our institutional church has detached itself from Christ-centered reality and moved right along to "New-Ageism." That's alarming enough, but what concerns me most of all is what I see as a growing tendency toward the intellectual dishonesty of "waffling." What we have been hearing lately is a lot of "big tent" talk about how there's room for everybody. Yet the matters at hand seem to be "yes or no" issues, and there is a strong tone of "believe it or else." My wish is that all church bodies will simply and directly state their current policies and ultimate objectives, but I don't think that's likely to happen. Openness and honestly liberates individuals and particular congregations, giving them the information they need to make decisions about the future. When we have accurate information, then we can vote, if only with our feet, on what we will do next. However, I don't think this is going to happen in an open, direct and easy way. Some of our leaders have much to fear from an open election by the folks in the pews. In my opinion, the Presbyterian church will reshape itself substantially over the next few years. It's hard to say just what the outcome might be. I don't know if I will have a place in one part or another of what arises or not. This grieves me to considerable extent, as I was brought up as Presbyterian and have a lot of time and energy invested. In the meantime, I have been on the road of spiritual journey, continuing to pray for the Church, its leaders, and for guidance for myself as I travel. However, when we are out on the journey, no matter what our initial motive, unexpected things can and will happen. Numerous examples exist. I have been trying to listen to what God is saying, and he has been pushing and prodding me in some strange and very unexpected ways. I have a strong feeling that he has something for me to do. I don't know the details yet. I expect to soon be voting with my own feet, and I don't really know how much longer I will be able to call myself a Presbyterian. Leonard Jones, elder Littleton, Colo. Liberal 'playbook:' Produce 'fog and confusion' to disorientate September 19, 2006 It is apparent our differences with PCUSA will not be resolved by reasoning with the ones in control. For many years the same problems with the liberal groups have arisen, only to see them gain ground inch by inch, and in this General Assembly by yards. Especially noteworthy is the fact that they are in the minority when a poll is taken. It is my understanding that our U. S. Government is very similar to the Presbyterian form. Our U.S. Constitution cannot be amended by a single vote by Congress, as in the case of our church constitution by a single vote of those who normally represent us at the GA but in this instance were caught up in the heat of the moment influenced by respected conservatives who had suddenly decided that it was useless to fight. Legality has been brought into question but not pursued. The "playbook" of the liberals is to produce "fog and confusion" to disorientate. Who does that remind you of? Satan is the author of confusion. Where is your Elijah or Paul ... we should either stay and fight or get out. Henry Lee McComb, Miss. Unity, purity and peace continue to elude PCUSA just like before September 19, 2006 Nothing has changed! The pundits at the September meeting of Eastminster Presbytery echoed the loyalist mantra being chanted across our denomination: Nothing has changed! They insisted that the reception of the Trinity paper and the adoption of the Peace, Unity and Purity Report by the 217th General Assembly simply maintains the status quo. Although this affirmation rankled in my ears upon hearing it, as I gain a little distance from the event it begins to hit a note of truth. Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly convened, we were a denomination that allowed sessions and presbyteries to wink at our constitutional ordination/installation standards and grant exceptions to them. Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly met, such exceptions regularly included the ordination and installation of individuals engaged in sexually immoral practices: Specifically, sexually active gays and lesbians. Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly gathered, it was possible to be ordained and/or installed as a deacon, elder or minister of Word and Sacrament while declaring a scruple to the central doctrine of our Christian faith, that the Lord Jesus Christ is the one and only Savior of humankind. Nothing has changed! In fact, the moderator of the 217th General Assembly, Rev. Joan Gray, openly declared (during the question and answer forum that preceded the vote to elect her to this office) that – in regard to this very point of doctrine, "I live with some tension – I know Jesus is the way, truth and life, but I am willing to give God a lot of leeway in matters I don't fully understand." Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly, a candidate for ordination/installation to the offices of our denomination could allow God "leeway" on the issue of whether the Son is indeed the only way to the Father, even though the Bible and our confessions make crystal clear the truth that God has neither devised nor desires a "plan B." The common understanding of the Church – at all times and in all places – is that God's entire plan for the salvation of humankind, from A to Z, is summed up in the one who is the Alpha and the Omega, even Christ Jesus. Except, of course, within the PCUSA where God is granted wiggle-room on matters that Moderator Gray (and scores of other ordained officers) "don't fully understand;" just like before. Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly, it was common practice across the PCUSA to confuse the doctrine of the Trinity by invoking the attributes of the one God in three persons as though these were the very name of the Lord: Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer. Nothing has changed! O, except that the acceptable list of alternate designations for the Trinity has grown to include allegories along with attributes. Thus, the continued confusion of clergy and laity, officer and pew-warmer alike remains fully assured. "How sweet the name of" Rainbow, Ark, Dove, Speaker, Word, Breath, Font, Water, River, Mother, Child, Womb, Sun, Light, Ray, Giver, Gift, Giving, Lover, Beloved, Love, Rock, Cornerstone, Temple, Fire, Sword, Storm "sounds in a believer's ear." Whether we honor the Trinity or a pantheon is anybody's guess; just like before. Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly, we were a denomination in search of our "Christian identity in and for the 21st century." Nothing has changed! Yes, the Theological Task Force that drafted the Peace, Unity and Purity Report enjoyed a sustained, four-year-long, group hug; but the PCUSA still has no peace, no unity and no clear understanding on the issue of discerning and affirming a collective "Christian identity." Nothing has changed! I can assure you that what it means to be a Christian as a member of the North Benton Presbyterian Church, North Benton, Ohio, is not what it means to be a member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Austin, Texas; where professing to be a died-in-the-wool atheist is not a bar to being admitted into the fold. The Buckeyes in North Benton demand to see more than sheep's clothing; one needs to also baa like a lamb of God and walk like a child of Christ's kingdom before being adopted into the flock. There is division in the house of the PCUSA. Unity, purity and peace continue to elude our denomination; just like before. Nothing has changed! Presbyterian! And proud of it? Nothing has changed! Before the 217th General Assembly, the proverbial question: "How many Presbyterians does it take to change a light bulb?" was answered by shrieking in fearful voice, "Change!?!" Please, dear Whatever-Your-Name-Is, anything but change. Our prayer has been answered, with seasoned practice, by the 217th General Assembly's Authoritative Interpretation of 2006. Nothing has changed! All hail the power of our heart's desire! Nothing has changed! Ah, but this one, teeny-tiny step beyond the ordinary should perhaps be noted: All that has not changed used to be done without the explicit approval of our denomination; but now, the Authoritative Interpretation of 2006 makes continuing on our chosen way, as we have for so very long, without change, official. It is official! Our adamant refusal to change has been codified by the 217th General Assembly. Nothing has changed! Sexually immoral individuals who refuse to repent are still elevated to office; the sole, sufficient saving power of Jesus Christ is still denied; the doctrine of the Trinity is still confused; our "Christian identity" is still in question; purity, unity and peace still lie beyond our grasp and it is not going to change. The 217th General Assembly has committed us to stay right where we are. Nothing has changed! Yet, the decision to lift up this claim as our guiding principle makes everything different. There is no longer any hope that our denomination will change. Any who long for change need seek it elsewhere; but, as for the 217th General Assembly and its house, it will never change. Nothing has changed! How sad. Jim Henkel, NWAC endorsing church pastor North Benton Presbyterian Church North Benton, Ohio Eastminster Presbytery Along with alternate names for Trinity, how about new names for PCUSA? September 19, 2006 In keeping with the action of the 217th General Assembly of the PCUSA to provide alternate names for the Trinity, would it not be appropriate that alternate names be adopted for the institutional church to more clearly describe its current ecclesiastical status? One descriptive rename would be the Presbyterian Church of the Prevailing Culture. Suitable acronyms would be PCPC(USA)or for the mathematical minded, (PC)^2(USA). An even more definitive characterization of the organization would be the Presbyterian Church of Secular Culture, PCSC(USA). Fred McCormick Earlysville, Va. Satire: Five easy steps for taking evangelical churches September 19, 2006 For EPs and Stated Clerks For Immediate Release 1. Find insiders. It could anyone in the church who is disgruntled; the larger the church, the easier (and more important) this is. You may even find an associate pastor willing to bad-mouth the head of staff, which is the fastest route to success. Because we're liberals, take bonus points for siding with ultra-conservatives against more moderate evangelicals – no one will blame you for being liberal in that case. Besides, it doesn't matter. All that matters is getting the property. 2. Establish initial cooperation. Be sure to say reassuring things like "We're with you, Brother!" or "Hey, we know ministry is tough! We're entirely on your side." Remember to pray at all meetings, using traditional Trinitarian language and whatever sentimentalisms fit the target congregation. Talk about "unity" – this is your foot in the door. Just because you have to be cruel doesn't mean you can't be sweet about it. 3. Identify (create) conflict. A minor disagreement between two pastors, a slightly-offended church secretary, old-time members, or 20-somethings – any of these can be your first tool. It is up to you to identify and name a conflict; then we can create an investigative committee "for the good of the people of the church." From here on, it doesn't matter what pastors and/or sessions say – they're entirely irrelevant, as you'll see. 4. Conflict "resolution." Drive a wedge between whatever two sides you can identify. It doesn't matter if it's between a 20-year-veteran pastor and a man hired out of a newspaper ad to pick up litter with a pointed stick – you put them on a level and keep them there. As long as there are two sides, then there is a need for an investigative committee, which we can morph into an Administrative Commission. Get the commission in and we've won! It may be helpful to call in a "consultant" to deal with the conflict. If you choose from one of the national organizations, pick from somewhere low on the totem pole, thereby increasing the chances of overlooking "family systems" and allowing us to put the crosshairs on one or more of the pastors. Someone has to take the bullet for conflict, and it won't be the presbytery! 5. Declare a stalemate. An Administrative Commission only needs to declare that the conflict is unresolvable. Now you can remove pastor(s) at will. You may lose up to half of the elders, but more likely than not, the congregation will fall back into conformity once their leaders are gone. Result: the denomination keeps the property, and seeks a new (and more obedient) pastoral staff to "lead" the church. Afterwards, whether the church grows or not doesn't matter; what matters is that it is ours. Putting these five-easy-steps into practice, our properties will be secured and our denomination empowered, at least until that day we have to sell the churches' properties outright. Even then, the profits will be ours. Noel K. Anderson Executive Pastor First Presbyterian Church Bakersfield, Calif. PCUSA's blindness, born of greed, would stop even God's work September 18, 2006 Reading this article gives me shivers. Aren't they in violation of RICO? Isn't this the kind of bondage and atrocity the Protestant leaders of Reformation wanted so desperately to get away from? PCUSA not only lost its soul, but its heart as well. Slight decency on their part would prevent them from freezing assets of local congregations who use their accounts to expand God's work – no matter what the reason is. PCUSA would do better to learn from Paul who said, "What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed, and in that I rejoice." Instead, their blindness, born of greed, would stop even God's work God had entrusted to each congregation. If that's not going against God's will, I don't know what is. Something is very, very wrong here! Peter B. Min 'Can the PCUSA deny the property to the vast majority of the congregation?' September 18, 2006 The question is not whether I and Dr. Hardy "can't take the church's property with [us] as [we] go out the door." The question is, can the PCUSA deny the property to the vast majority of the congregation? I know that they sincerely believe that they can. Should they? Is it moral? Is it Christ-like? As they follow the outline of the PCUSA legal game-plan, the plodding legalism of the PCUSA and EOP is increasingly evident. They continue to ask for our membership rolls and all official documents. To what use will these be put? We have let members who wish to remain with the PCUSA know exactly what is necessary to do so. The empty mechanizations of the denomination reflect its theological emptiness. Tom Gray, co-pastor Kirk of the Hills Stated clerk's recent letter seems dangerously close to enforcing constitution September 18, 2006 I was under the impression from previous statements from the PCUSA stated clerk that his job was not to enforce the Book of Order, but rather, to merely interpret it. His recent communications to the presbyteries seems to come dangerously close to enforcing it. I am not sure which part or parts of his communications should be followed or is the clerk's real agenda in all of this. I rest assured in the words of the Bible that the church is the Lord's and gates of hell will not prevent it from doing its appointed task. Art Kalafut, pastor Monmouth Community Presbyterian Church Fresno, Calif. It's not the Office of the Stated Clerk, but the Office of the Stated Hypocrite September 18, 2006 It was only such a short time ago, in the scheme of things. I was a commissioner at the 1999 General Assembly in Fort Worth, and by the luck of the draw had been assigned to the standing committee that had been assigned the latest attempt to gut the constitution with respect to ordination of people who were sexually active outside of marriage. It became very clear as soon as the subject came up in the committee, that the leadership of the committee had been selected with care, in order to have in charge people who favored the proposed change. We had some stormy committee meetings, and, in the end, I was part of the group who pulled together a minority report (the purpose of which was to hold fast to the existing constitutional standard of G-6.0106b), and with the support of some others, including our Stated Clerk Cliff Kirkpatrick, who guided us on process and tactics, we were able to persuade the majority of the General Assembly to accept the minority report in lieu of the majority report. I was duly proud. The constitution had been preserved, and I found in the stated clerk a wonderful, intelligent, person who seemed to be a strong supporter of the constitution. I went home singing his praises. So I have been surprised, then dismayed, then despairing, with what he has done since that time, with respect to the constitution of our denomination. A constitution is a kind of social contract between people and organizations, in order to provide a mutually agreeable framework of relationships. Human society has to operate under some sort of constitution, if there is to be freedom, respect for law, (and for each other), and a modicum of mutuality within the society. In fact, one might honestly and accurately claim that what binds us together as Presbyterians is our theology, our constitution (Book of Order and Book of Confessions), and our particular history together as Christians. In our Presbyterian "society," it is the responsibility and the role of the stated clerk of the General Assembly to oversee our constitution and our general "obedience" to it. Thus, when a few years back, we started learning that there were pastors, sessions and presbyteries who were breaking the covenant of the constitution by ordaining or participating in the ordination of people who were sexually active outside of marriage, we might have presumed that there would be some sort of response from the stated Clerk. When we heard of so-called "gay marriages" being performed by Presbyterian pastors in Presbyterian churches, we might have presumed that there would be some sort of response from the stated clerk. But all we got was advice that this was not his responsibility. But now that the General Assembly, with the fullest support from his office, has attempted a massive end run around the constitution, through the fuzzy words of the PUP report, supplemented by a variety of conflicting and fuzzy advice from his office, and now that people all over the denomination are objecting to all of this, now, we have a broadside from the clerk (September 8 letter) about those presbyteries who don't seem to understand the constitution in the same fashion as he does, and who are, in a number of ways, attempting to be faithful Presbyterians by enforcing the constitution locally, where enforcement is deemed necessary. Now, the stated clerk has come awake! Where has he been for the past seven years? Frankly, it seems to me that what we have is no longer the Office of the Stated Clerk, but the Office of the Stated Hypocrite! In his defined role as defender of the constitution, he has miserably failed. He has refused to defend it in matters related to G-6.0106b. He has been unable to speak with clarity about what he thinks that the PUP report really means, and how he believes that it is to be lived with, or enforced. Yet now, at last, when the denomination is falling apart in confusion, anger, dismay and despair over the PUP report, he has found some constitutional backbone, but only to defend the property concerns of the denomination, as though these were far more important than theology, or constitution or morality. He has trampled on his own responsibilities, and become the Stated Hypocrite of the General Assembly. We deserve better. Stephen A. Moss, H.R. Salisbury, N.C. Constitutional Presbyterians Hypocrisy: Undermine constitution on property but not ordination standards September 18, 2006 I find it very interesting that those who are crying loudest about the PUP report because it seems to overturn a fairly recent part of the constitution as written in the Book of Order seem to have no problem ignoring and breaking the provisions in Chapter 8 regarding church property, which have been part of the constitution much longer. Somehow it is OK to undermine the Constitution of the PCUSA when it comes to church property, but not when it comes to standards of ordination. Might there be a bit of hypocrisy here? How about if we all try to live by the constitution we have, as written, or else work within the framework provided to amend that constitution, regardless of whether we agree with it as currently written or not? After all – that's what it means to "live by" a Constitution – it is not an a la carte menu, but a document to be taken as a whole. As Presbyterians, we claim to be "Reformed" and "always Reforming," not "always picking and choosing based on our own circumstances." Rev. Steve Elderbrock Ottawa, Ohio Stated clerk selectively uses constitution to maintain control of churches September 18, 2006 It has been about three months since the PUP report was accepted by General Assembly and a month since the Coalition Network meeting in Atlanta. Since then several congregations has expressed the desire to separate from the PCUSA. Differing degrees of harassment have been leveled at these congregations ranging from pastors being put on administrative leave and sessions being replaced by administrative commissions to threats of lawsuits that could prevent the congregation from leaving with their property. Louisville has taken a hard line even against congregations simply inquiring about their separation rights. Our vindictive stated clerk has selectively used the PCUSA constitution to maintain control of congregations that have the gall to expect the denomination to follow the Bible rather than his apostate brand of Christianity. This is the same stated clerk who conveniently ignored the constitution in the open defiance of ordination standards by several congregations. "Its not my responsibility" he said. What is his responsibility? It is not to be a puppet for those desiring to rewrite the Word of God. It is disappointing that the many renewal groups have not joined together to act in strength against the worldly culture promoted by Louisville. This was the hope of people attending the Coalition meeting in Atlanta last month. The several congregations seeking separation from the legalistic PCUSA need real support from like-minded Christians rather than words. Right now these faithful congregations face being picked off one at a time. A unified show of strength would stop some of the Mickey Mouse antics by Louisville. Will our once faithful Biblically based Presbyterian denomination destruct because of the misdirected leadership of our present stated clerk, Cliff Kirkpatrick and our reluctance to stop this nonsense? Come on, renewal groups, let's unite and show some real courage. Let's roll. Bill Arthur Greenville, S.C. PCUSA practices 'muslim' approach: You must stay and convert to our religion September 18, 2006 Three cheers for the First Church of Baton Rouge, the Church of Ridgebury, N.Y. and others who have had the courage to lead the way out of what has become a morally and theologically bankrupt denomination. Other churches who may wish to leave, and those who only wish to establish their property rights at this time, should get copies of the pleadings of these churches, and then follow their example. Back in the 1970s, the Southern Church (PCUS), found itself in the same situation that the PCUSA is in now, but for different reasons. Rather than proceed with what appeared to be a coming merger between the north and south, many churches decided to opt out and form the PCA. Some presbyteries in the PCUS behaved like Christians and allowed them to go peacefully, but a few presbyteries behaved like the bullies we are seeing in action now, who are taking more of a "muslim" approach, namely; you must stay and convert to our form of religion, or we will make your lives as miserable as we can. However, the so-called "trust clause" regarding property rights did not stand up very well at that time, and in the end most churches (now PCA) left with their property rights intact. One of the first actions of the newly formed PCA was to strike the trust clause from the Book of Order, replacing it with wording that affirmed the property rights of each congregation. Two of the churches mentioned above are, so far, proving that the unilaterally established trust clause can be overturned in some states if the right attorneys are engaged and the right pleadings are prepared, and that the courts may be willing to restrain presbyteries from the tyrannical tactics we see in action today. May I suggest that the time has come for serious Christians in the PCUSA to finally say "the emperor has no clothes, and never will have any, and we are getting out of here, one way or another." It appears that the process of dissolution has now begun, and however long it takes, the end game will likely be a much smaller PCUSA, existing as a hollow shell, without moral or theological substance. This remainder can then consider a merger with the Unitarian Church, with whom they share many common values, summarized in the words of a recent Wall St. Journal article about the PCUSA, the title of which was "Anything Goes." What it should have said was "Anything goes except leaving." Bill Buiten, retired elder and former member of the PCA Judicial Business Committee Holding to the gospel of our Lord Jesus is a never ending struggle September 18, 2006 I am in the PCA now, but we must realize that holding to the gospel of our Lord Jesus as proclaimed in Scripture and as taught and defended by those of reformed faith is a never ending struggle. Separation is required of us at times in order to restore the truth and order of the "apostolic" faith once brought to us. God bless you as you struggle with issues in the PCUSA. None of us are free from this struggle in one way or another. We must always contend for and press ahead in obedience to our Lord and his work of pushing the expansion of his kingdom to the ends of the earth. William N. Blake, PhD More congregations should take PCUSA to court September 18, 2006 The Kirk of the Hills has done and is doing all Presbyterians a service as it challenges the PCUSA in civil court. What is needed now is for more congregations to also take the denomination to court, en masse, and thereby break them! It is better to pay lawyers and court fees than to pay the same in tribute to Louisville. James H. Logan McHenry, Md. Church property belongs to God not to man September 18, 2006 First, the church property belongs to God not to man, and a lawyer or judge has no say in church matters that is in the constitution. Second, anyone who says that a practicing homosexual can be a minister does not know any thing about God or the Scriptures. Third, you are all wrong if you read John 4:22-23: "Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him." The reason that you can't get it right is because you haven't asked for the Holy Spirit and his "anointing." You probably haven't even a clue what Jesus was saying when he said you "must be born again." What God has shown me are these and a few other things that you should listen to before the Presbyterian church is no more, since it is Satan who causes dissent! Rev L.P. Richardson PCUSA: Where reason takes a back seat and language has no meaning September 14, 2006 Have we lost all sense of reason? In a clear effort to push forward the process of the new A.I. and stifle the dissent of evangelicals, the stated clerk in his letter has, in essence, called for a moratorium on clearly constitutional actions of presbyteries to clearly define their positions on ordination, to withhold per capita in protest, and to work for the purity of the church. At the same time, he has officially denied a request for a moratorium on political power plays against orthodox congregations considering their options (constitutionally allowed) in an era of the basic erosion of our constitution. Let me see if I understand what is going on: The new PUP A.I. forces us to consider what is clearly essential in the Book of Order as non-essential, and now the enforcement of the constitution (post-PUP) means the only thing that is essential is that all ordaining bodies must consider all essential ordination requirements to be non-essential. According to the stated clerk, it is unconstitutional for presbyteries to consider everything that used to be essential as still essential? When will the insanity end? This denomination and the PUP A.I. have taken us down the path following Alice into the insanity and illogic of Wonderland, where reason takes a back seat and language no longer has any meaning. Adel Thalos Presbyterian Church of the Redeemer Snellville, Ga. Reasonable, rational, Biblical resolution will be challenged by Louisville September 14, 2006 Regarding the Presbytery of Whitewater Valley's resolution that G-6.0106b be considered "an essential, binding standard for all Inquirers, Candidates, and ordained ministers of the Word and Sacrament," and that G-6.0106b never be considered "a non-essential ordination standard, or a matter of personal scruple:" What a reasonable, rational, Biblical, appropriate, sensible and sane thing for the presbytery to resolve. Of course, being reasonable, rational, Biblical, appropriate, sensible and sane it will undoubtedly, if passed, be challenged every step of the way by the Louisville powers-that-be. Dr. Rick Boyer Trinity United Presbyterian Church Zanesville, Ohio It's in error to think that A.I.s are given equal status to the constitution September 14, 2006 I wonder if Clifton Kirkpatrick overstates the case with his view that authoritative interpretations "have the binding authority of the Constitution itself." This seems remarkably similar to the situation in which Jesus and his disciples found themselves (and more than once). The Pharisees charged Jesus' disciples with "doing what is unlawful" (Matthew 12:1ff) because they dared "thresh" (read "harvested" = "worked") some heads of wheat on the Sabbath because they were hungry. We understand the Pharisees were guilty of, well, pharisaism - that is, placing an interpretation or application of the law on equal par with the law itself. Jesus said, "Fiddle sticks!" While A.I.s indeed have no small place or authority in our polity, I think it is in error to think or espouse that A.I.s are given equal status to the constitution (read "law") itself. If this is true, is our stated clerk unknowledgeable of this or is he simply overstating the case for some particular purpose? Rev. Steven L. Seng First Presbyterian Church Wellsburg, W.Va. Writer doesn't understand how the PCUSA got itself into such a big mess September 14, 2006 Re: Statement from the Presbyterian Lay Committee's board of directors: A call for Presbyterian decency and order It is my opinion that the stated clerk is overreacting because he now realizes that if the Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination collapses on his watch – fair or not – he will be the fall guy and Christian history will not treat him kindly. In fact, based on several of the recent letters to the editor, he is not being treated kindly at the present time by some very well-respected ministers and elders of the PCUSA. His apparent failure to manage controversy in the early days of his term may now be catching up with him. He could be trying to get back in control, but appears to be attempting what managers in trouble sometimes do, "micro manage" his subordinates. (Strong and able subordinates will resist this effort) However, I am puzzled. Where has everybody (with their current strong opinions against the General Assembly) been the last eight years or so while this PCUSA train has been in the process of derailing, especially the four years or so the PUP task force was meeting? All these potential problems have been building for years and, yet, only a handful of renewal organizations seem to have attempted to do anything constructive from what I can determine by reading the history on the various Web sites. I don't mean to be judgmental. I really just don't understand how the PCUSA got itself into such a big mess, which is now threatening to end a great Christian denomination. Was everybody trying to keep up with the secular society and be "politically correct?" Based on recent news stories since the PUP decision by the 217th General Assembly, many church elders and ministers are starting to take local action to prevent the collapse the denomination. This has to be a good thing, but is it too late? Maybe Christian history has the answer. Jennifer Trafton, of Christianity Today.Com said in part, "… there's practically no question I can ask, no issue the church is facing, no crisis of faith or practice, that has not been dealt with in some form by other Christians in the past two millennia. It's only pride that convinces us we've finally found the question that can stump the universe." With prayer, this can be fixed because God is still in control! Elders and ministers, thanks for your recent efforts to save this denomination. Phil Smith San Leandro, Calif. Kirkpatrick elevates a concept he previously denied to a level it doesn't deserve September 12, 2006 I am amazed at the seeming chutzpah of the stated clerk. Am I the only one who observes his processional walk all over the remains of this denomination with the thought that this is "The Emperor's New Clothes" come to life? Has anyone told him that he is naked – and embarrassingly so? I cannot help but think of his mantra over the past eight years. Throughout this period, increasing numbers of gay and lesbian activists would blatantly defy the constitution. Whenever anyone would call on him to stand for the constitution, Mr. Stated Clerk would throw his hands in the air and mutter "that's not my job." Hmmm. Now, all of a sudden, when his failed leadership has brought us to the lowest levels of peace, unity and purity ever observed in this denomination; now when property and resources are in play; now he cares about the constitution. The emperor is indeed naked and his partisan ideology is plainly exposed to anyone who cares to look. What was it he said? Oh, Yes: "It is this vision that is at the heart of our Constitution. It is why, in part, it is so important for us to remind Presbyterians that faithfulness to the Constitution is critical as we deal with difficult issues in our life together." Frankly, it would seem to me he has suddenly elevated a concept he previously denied to a level it doesn't deserve. Might I humbly suggest that faithfulness to the Word first, the confessions second and only then (maybe) the constitution might be a better plan? I'm curious when he decided that constitutional fealty was critical. It clearly wasn't critical when Mt. Auburn was in defiance. It wasn't critical when Redwoods was in defiance. It wasn't critical when Jane Spahr was in defiance – yet again. It wasn't critical when Janet Edwards was in defiance. It wasn't critical when denominational representatives tried to hijack a service of worship in California. It wasn't critical when Baltimore was defiant. You get the point. All of a sudden, Mr. Kirkpatrick sees himself as a constitutional defender. Please spare us the crocodile tears. Rev. Jim Yearsley Tampa, Fla. Denouncing the content and tenor of the so-called 'Louisville Papers' September 12, 2006 Thank you for your excellent article posted 9/11/06, "A Call for Presbyterian Decency and Order." I certainly join you in denouncing the content and tenor of the so-called "Louisville Papers." Rev. Barry J. Gruver St. Paul's Presbyterian Church Laurel Springs, N.J. (West Jersey Presbytery) Like Pharaoh, Kirkpatrick just does not seem to hear September 12, 2006 Mr. Kirkpatrick's letter to the presbyteries is maddening! This whole un-Godly affair makes my mind cry out with God's own words to Moses: "Let my people go...." Like Pharaoh, Kirkpatrick just does not seem to hear … Let us go! In God's Holy name, please, let us go! Terry Grogan Chesterfield, Mo. Early next year, couple probably will leave PCUSA September 12, 2006 I have sadly come to the same place as Sandra Richardson [letter to the editor, posted September 11, 2006]. I love my local congregation and have served in many different capacities over the years. We will be having a series of discussions in October about the PUP report and the fallout from the GA, but I do not hold my breath as to any positive outcome. I have had numerous talks with our pastor, and he just does not want to take a stand one way or the other. Pastor Brown [letter to the editor, posted September 11, 2006] hit the nail on the head – we are overall the church in Laodicea, neither hot nor cold. My wife and I have come to the conclusion that sometime early next year we will probably be leaving our church home of 16-plus years. I pray that God will open the doors that need to be opened and close those that need to be closed as we seek his will. I also pray for all of those brothers and sisters who are facing similar decisions. Marc Karasek, elder Norcross Presbyterian Church No more hoping that presbyteries can apply constitutional standards September 12, 2006 Kirkpatrick has spoken ... so let it be written, so let it be done! No matter what the Bible says, no matter what the Book of Order says, it matters not to Kirkpatrick and/or his ilk, wherever they may be. What matters is that each ordaining body (session) is able to interpret whether a candidate meets the standards for ordination, according to the authoritative interpretation of PUP, and nothing more or nothing less. So much for our hopes of local churches being able to apply the standards now contained in the Book of Order alone, as was promised by our Western North Carolina Presbytery ... the ones who said "nothing has changed" after PUP. Glenda Smith Weaverville, N.C. GAC should offer PUCSA a reasonable two-synod solution September 12, 2006 It is the evangelical wing of this denomination that is being pushed out because of our Biblical beliefs – pushed out in favor of a general Unitarian version and vision of religion. It seems as if some of our church leaders have never truly had an encounter with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who is to be forever praised. So, what now? Do we just wait three years (or two years or one year) until the Permanent Judicial Counsel rules once and for all that all presbyteries must consider as candidates for the Word and Sacrament openly gay clergy? We should give the General Assembly Council an ultimatum of Dec. 31, 2006, that they propose and offer a reasonable two-synod solution, where both theological traditions are protected from the other, or we should prepare to leave. Such a two-synod system should limit the authority of the General Assembly to the election of the stated clerk and moderator and the oversight of the missions board and pensions board and other administrative matters. Each synod, say a Westminster Synod (representing the more evangelical wing) and Auburn Synod (the more progressive wing), would elect their own synod counsels, on which the stated clerk and moderator would also be voting members, to determine their own theological standards, ordination standards and publishing materials to be purchased for the churches in the respective synods. The Permanent Judicial Council would be replaced by synod courts whose highest body ends at the synod level. The country would consist of overlapping presbyteries and synods of the Westminster Synod and Auburn Synod. These overlapping presbyteries need to have joint committees, joint outreach projects and occasionally joint retreats to maintain some constant level of unity between the Auburn and Westminster synods. It would be cheaper for the GAC to recall the 2006 delegates for an up or down vote for this constitutional change than to pay for the coming hurricane. Anything short of this, preparations should be made to leave, including elders establishing corporate entities outside the local church and beyond the reach of the presbytery to begin to gather assets for eventual departure. We need to get tough and stand together. Certainly, everyone has the language down, but it is what is in the heart that matters. John Almquist PCUSA has become a giant social agency engaged in business and politics September 11, 2006 The dust has not settled on the PUP report; on the contrary, things just continue to get stirred up. For those who favor and voted for retaining the ordination standards, we would like to believe that the rhetoric being heralded now is that nothing has changed. That was supposed to be the good news coming out of the 217th general Assembly: nothing has changed. Ironically, that is the sad reality: nothing has changed. The debates over the homosexual issue and abortion and other controversial matters will continue ad infinitum. You can bet that in the next General Assembly there will be yet more overtures to delete the ordination standards, unless... the AI and the PUP report have truly rendered the Book of Order irrelevant in this matter. Our stated clerk and the new moderator and others contend that the constitution cannot be set aside. Then why was the PUP report considered and approved? Of what function or relevance is it? Why did the homosexual advocates and supporters applaud it (not all did)? Evidently, the PUP report is not all that clear and will make a fertile ground for loopholes, exceptions, etc. In the bigger picture, the saddest reality is that the PCUSA's day has been spent. It is no longer a faith community; it has become a giant social agency engaged in business and politics. The churches and pastors who have left or are considering leaving have learned firsthand the true character of this giant agency. The giant has not approached the dissenting party for amiable communication. No, the scenario has been: Charge in like gangbusters, expel the pastor, take over the session and in many cases, the proper protocol of the constitutional process has not been fully followed. And they say that no part of the constitution can be set aside? At first, it seemed that the New Wineskins was the hero to the rescue for evangelicals - they may yet be. I think it is interesting that in the history of our country the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed first and then later a constitution was drafted. With the New Wineskins, a constitution was drafted first and then ... well, will there now be a declaration of independence? If the New Wineskins does not create and declare itself a new denomination, all this will not matter. There will be no negotiated or gracious separation; it will be every church and pastor for themselves. This will prove too intimidating for many small- to moderate-sized congregations. Well, these are my perspectives and thoughts on this drama. The PCUSA may coerce or bully the dissenting parties into believing that the denomination owns the particular church, and the secular and ecclesiastical courts may agree, but the only party who owns the saints is the head of the Church, the Lord Jesus Christ. The PCUSA is not Lord of the conscience. Rev. George F. Major Silex Presbyterian Church PCUSA's apparent endorsement of Griffin's book in inexcusable September 11, 2006 Re: Westminster John Knox Press' publication of Christian Faith and the Truth Behind 9/11 by David Ray Griffin. The publication of this book by our church press charging that the events of 9/11 were planned and executed by the executive branch of our nation with the participation of the military (including the shooting down of Flight 93 over Pennsylvania) is a politically outrageous act that partners the entire denomination with: A delusional, conspiracy-obsessed fringe; Those who coldly exploit that fringe for political motives; Single power world government advocates; Muslim extremists and their sponsor states. Richard Ostling's (AP) review of Griffin's book concludes that Griffin's "ultimate goal" is for "Christians to try to supplant America's 'demonic' regime with a system of 'global government.'" Ostling writes that Griffin offers no hard evidence but "spins forth the speculations after deeming the accepted version of events implausible." Mark Tooley's review in The Weekly Standard presents Griffin as "having already concluded that Jesus Christ's primary goal on earth was to overturn the Roman Empire of his day. Unfortunately, Griffin opines, the early church, including some Gospel writers, covered up this truth, claiming that salvation was eternal rather than a political liberation." [emphasis mine.] A brief Web search displays the credence this book has received – credence by virtue of its nascence from a respectable publishing house arm of the PCUSA (whose board is chosen by the General Assembly). This book is being taken seriously by many. It is obtainable through major retailers like Barnes & Noble, Powell's and Amazon – no doubt because of its publishing source. Never mind that this book has "conspiracy fringe" expressed throughout. It is no doubt being referred to with glee by those wishing to destroy our nation and society and is being used as "verified" propaganda throughout the world of radical Islam. It offers aid to those seeking the extermination of western culture. Our church's publishing arm is not a naïve enterprise easily led. The acceptance of this book for publication – i.e., granting the imprimatur of the Presbyterian Church USA – may be assumed to be a calculated risk and political act. Considering the book's inflammatory message, the risk/reward factor must have been weighed by the press's sophisticated editorial board. Indeed, the church's apparent endorsement of a book giving "aid" to those committed to bring down our nation and (2) fueling action toward the author's "ultimate goal" of global government may, by many, be considered as treasonous or seditious. I have always valued the political diversity of the PCUSA and its earlier entities. Throughout my lifetime, America's Presbyterians have had a reputation for measured fairness. My experience of seven decades is of a milieu that fostered racial, gender and class diversity and social justice within church and society. Presbyterian heritage includes rigorous defense of the ideal of separation of church and state devised by the wise founders of our nation (including our John Witherspoon). Indeed, the American Revolution was termed by some in Britain "The Presbyterian Rebellion." We do not all agree on the degrees of "separation," but that is not to our detriment. Separation is at times a thin membrane where "osmosis" takes place; often, it is a hard barrier between the two realms. I have always recognized and appreciated those tensions. We are called to witness our ideals to our authority and society. We are called to expose evil wherever it occurs. However: I refuse association with a group – secular or religious – that deliberately risks the dislocation of our country's governing principles by publishing slanderous, inflammatory accusations and granting respectability and gravitas to a "fringe" opinion of the kind that swirls on the far edges of the events of our time. This book will be read by thousands precisely because it is from a sober, mainline publisher. Presented as a "Presbyterian book," Christian Faith and the Truth Behind 9/11 will be exampled as a "proof" source by any number of its readers and utilized in coming years by those working to abrogate the sovereignty of nations, including replacing the authority of the Constitution of the United States of America by Griffin's hoped for "global government." Thus, my dilemma: I am finally moved beyond hope that the PCUSA will change course or correct theological departures and accommodations for the sake of "relevancy." I treasure my congregation's fellowship and literally every person in it. It is my church home. Our congregation is not off-base nor is our presbytery. I am sure I am not alone in finding myself upon learning of this Presbyterian book driven between (pardon the triteness) a "rock and a hard place" by the proverbial last straw. I now recognize that I have three difficult choices: Resign my membership now and become part of the life of another local church. Resign my membership now but remain as a non-member in fellowship hoping that our church will migrate from the PCUSA within a practical time-line. Do not resign at this time, but set a personal timeline for my departure depending upon the status of this congregation in the near future. And focus my energies upon our eventual separation in "decency and order." As autumn unfolds in our beautiful mountain community, it will be my personal season of discernment. I pray for us all. Sandra Richardson, elder First Presbyterian Church of Columbia (California) Those clinging to the faith should leave this prostituted denomination September 11, 2006 A colleague recently copied me on an impassioned plea to "stay and fight" that he has sent to the directors of the Presbyterian Lay Committee and the New Wineskins Association of Churches leadership team. With all his heart he wants someone, anyone, to take a stand and to pull the PCUSA back from the precipice of disaster. I appreciate his passion for "saving" our denomination from its slide into apostasy, but I agree with the Presbyterian Lay Committee directors when they write: "Continuing the remedial course that our renewal organizations have pursued for more than four decades will not save this ecclesiastical body; for its sin is so systemic as to render it impervious to change from within." Any who would cling to the Lord Jesus Christ with unwavering faith, should now be preparing to "go to him outside the camp" of this polluted and prostituted denomination (Hebrews 10: 23, 13:13; Revelation 18:4b-5). The exodus has begun with churches like Kirk of the Hills, Tulsa. All that is left to discover is whether it will be a trickle or a flood tide. Louisville is betting on a trickle. Our national leadership doubled the projected membership loss for the coming year in anticipation of the reaction that is now occurring; individual members voting with their feet and the separation of a few evangelical congregations. The only thing that would surprise the offices of the General Assembly and the stated clerk is a mass, unified departure. Given the results of the "renewal organization" meetings in Atlanta and Tulsa, that is not likely to happen in the near term. So, the remnant will grow smaller – as my colleague fears – and the battle for the soul of the PCUSA will rage on for another round or two – to no good end. The liberals/progressives have whittled away the loyal opposition until its battle cry is but a whisper. Perhaps, into that silence, God will speak his living Word of redemption and renewal. The Lord may yet turn to lift up a PCUSA which he has already abandoned to its own devices and deviancies. Still, we need to entertain the prospect that God may well permit this once great denomination to fall into utter ruin. The Lord may render it a wasteland, for God the Father has made a solemn vow to the Son: "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool!" (Psalm 110:1c). The fate of those who turn their lips away from kissing the Son, is to "perish in the way; for his wrath is quickly kindled." Yet, "Blessed are all who take refuge in him!" (Psalm 2:12c-d). "Therefore let us go to him outside the camp and bear the reproach he endured. For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city that is to come" (Hebrews 13:13-14). Any who seek that "lasting city," need to think twice about staying in the PCUSA. Victory in Jesus! Jim Henkel, NWAC endorsing church pastor North Benton Presbyterian Church North Benton, Ohio Synod won't correct presbytery September 11, 2006 The ruling came out on Friday afternoon: In a 5-5 tie, the Synod of the Sun PJC has refused to correct Mission Presbytery for admitting an openly lesbian woman to candidacy for ordination to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament. After repeated deadlocked votes by the PJC that could not break the tie, the complaint against the presbytery was not upheld. So, what does this mean for evangelicals? We lost again. What does this mean for the stated clerk's office at the General Assembly? Half of the Synod of the Sun PJC thinks that the advice on the constitution and guidance on its application given to Mission Presbytery was plain wrong. Hardly a vindication of our Louisville offices! This is a sad day for the Biblical faith and constitutional governance in our presbytery and denomination. "And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write: 'The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation. I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked'" Revelation 3:14-17. Toby L. Brown, pastor First Presbyterian Church Cuero, Texas All Confessing Churches should leave PCUSA together September 11, 2006 It's my heartfelt prayer and burden that these 1,315 congregations of the Confessing Church Movement would band together to leave the PCUSA as one, and in one great, orchestrated movement! Then what could the PCUSA do? Even if the leaders of the denomination were to target a handful of us, we could band together financially to help out the "scapegoats!" Jane Neal Youth and Family Life Director First Presbyterian Church Marion, N.C. The longest suicide note ever written September 11, 2006 Reading the "legal strategy memorandum" was like reading the longest suicide note ever written. Philip Keevil WJKP should consider publishing Spiderman and Wonder Woman September 11, 2006 Griffin is in my prayers. WJKP, on the other hand, should consider publishing Spiderman and Wonder Woman comics since they claim subjects for discussion and reflection should be published. Dawson Watkins Time to look forward and explore what God has in store for us September 11, 2006 Thank you for your thoughtful analysis of General Assembly. Like you, I think our energies are now best served by looking forward to and exploring what God has in store for us. You can read more at www.kerrycarson.com. Kerry Carson Moderator Candidate 217th General Assembly Word of God is the guidance for our lives that supersedes GA September 5, 2006 Linda Valentine, executive director of the General Assembly Council of the PCUSA issued a news release September 5 that reminds me of the circus clown holding a stick in each hand and another in his mouth, each topped by a rapidly rotating dinner plate. There's a lot of spinning going on and a precarious balance at best. Interestingly, her communiqué reveals a strategy by the denomination to sidestep and obfuscate the turmoil within the PCUSA. Can't let those natives get restless, I guess. She states, "... I shared (with her home congregation) what I believe are two important dynamics causing change within our denomination. First, we are embroiled in debates that can distract from our mission and yet we have committed to stay together." That is simply not true. Ms. Valentine must be aware that evangelicals throughout the denomination have accused the administration she serves of creating schism. That is too serious a charge to ignore and it is an insult to the intelligence of her audience to deny it. The commitment to stay together was a contract broken by the requirements of Scripture in the face of the denomination's apostasy. Next she states, "And second, individuals and congregations want to have more direct involvement in mission. There is less money for the national church and at the same time a flourishing of activity at the local level." Well that comment is even worse – it's a half-truth. The whole truth is that there's a flourish of activity at the local level because fewer people trust the denomination with money for any purpose. A good question for Ms. Valentine might be, "How could there possibly be more mission activity at the denominational level when the denomination fires its missionaries yet maintains its funding of international Marxist quasi-ecumenical organizations?" Louisville has truly lost its way. Here's a stunning comment from her news release, "First, the debates. The Presbyterian Church has always reflected the larger cultural and political context of our country. The debates we are having now in the church are about many of the same issues that create conflicts in the public arena." Oh, really. Do you think down at the mill they're talking about how God feels about referring to the Trinity as Compassionate Mother, Beloved Child and Life-giving Womb? Do you really believe that tonight on Larry King we'll hear a discussion about the Presbyterian goddess Sophia? What are the chances that Greta's going On The Record tomorrow talking about the stated clerk's amicus endorsement of hallucinogenic drugs during worship? I long to hear John Stossel report on the 40,000 member-per-year loss in the roles of the PCUSA and how Louisville feels they're fulfilling the Great Commission. They simply don't get it. Ms. Valentine, the denomination's obsession with sex, gender roles, power, international politics and what you call "cultural and political context," is the reason you have to spin your news releases. The proper "context" for the denomination is simple. Seek ye first the kingdom of God. What part of that doesn't Louisville understand? Her baffling comments just keep coming, one after the other: "We in the Presbyterian Church conduct our debates openly and publicly. We believe that we come to better decisions and better discernment when we have healthy debate even if it becomes heated." Baloney. Do you mean, "publicly" like the secret documents from your lawyers on how to handle the open and honest debates offered by your conservative brethren? Come on. Last one. She says, "But at the same time, we are unified in our fundamental beliefs and our call to serve the poor and the poor in spirit and to work for peace and justice and spread the Good News." No. We are not unified in our fundamental beliefs. You shall not lump me in with your fellow travelers. I know Jesus as my friend and my only hope for salvation. There is no other hope no matter where you went to theology school. I will not tolerate a prayer to Allah or Buddha offered as a prayer to my God. Sophia is a fiction. Communion is a sacred act and its corruption is not to be endorsed or even tolerated. The Word of God is the Word and the supreme written guidance for our lives that supersedes even the General Assembly. There are hundreds of us who see by its actions that the denomination does not agree with the aforementioned. By its actions – not its words. Come Pentecost! Jack O'Brien Pittsburgh, Pa. Tired of a denomination that thinks that 'negotiating' ransom is even-handed September 5, 2006 I read with sincere interest Pastor Miller's response [letter to the editor, posted September 1, 2006] with respect to the Kirk's decision. I have no doubt that he is an honorable and Godly servant, but a couple of his comments just don't make sense. I write because, like many others who are pretty much fed up with the antics of those people in Louisville, I am tired. 1. Pastor Miller said, "I also write as one who believes the PCUSA is in need of serious reform." If so, pastor, what are you doing to reform this diseased and dying body? The folks at the Kirk have done something. You may not agree with their actions, but they are doing, not just talking. Those of us in the pews who have watched the supporters of reform as they talk and talk and talk, are tired of all the talk. We want to be led out of the wilderness. 2. He said, "The Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery did not target Kirk of the Hills members who disagree with the separation from the denomination. Following the constitutional process, we sent a letter to every Kirk member – regardless of their stance – inviting them to an open forum where Kirk members could at least ask any questions of the presbytery leadership." If constitutional process is so important, why is the PUP and its AI an issue? As a flagrant attempt to subvert the constitutional amendment process, the "constitutionalists" of the PCUSA should have put it to a merciful death before the 217th GA put a last shot into a dying corpse. We are tired of being told that the constitution is important when it is a means of getting our money and our property, but it is unimportant when it would require those people in Louisville to discipline their cronies who ignore Scripture by ordaining people in violation of the constitutional standard. 3. He said, "The Kirk leadership has not allowed the presbytery to speak at a congregational meeting." And did you expect them to do otherwise? Your presbytery pulls a sneak attack, utilizing the plan connived and created by those people in Louisville – no attempt to meet with or talk to the Kirk there – and then you are surprised that the Kirk doesn't trust the presbytery. We are tired of being taken for fools and treated like children. 4. He said, "We never planned to disrupt worship or any other meetings at the Kirk." This one I believe, because I am originally from that part of the country and courtesy towards your neighbors is an ingrained thing. But, we were also taught at our mothers' knees that "you are known by the company you keep." EOP is keeping company with those people in Louisville who created and distributed the secret plan that led to confrontations in California. EOP followed another part of that secret plan with the sneak affidavit. We are tired of having to wonder if our trusted brethren have been corrupted by those people in Louisville. 5. He said, "We made it known to the Kirk's clerk of session that the presbytery had a stated supply pastor ready to preach – since, under our constitution, the Kirk has no PCUSA pastoral leadership (their two pastors having already demitted their ordinations in the PCUSA)." Why would you do that? The folks of the Kirk made it clear that they still had their two beloved and trusted pastors. They had filled their pulpit on their own terms and did not need any help from the "cardinals" and "bishops" of the PCUSA. They didn't need an outsider to come in and "fill" an already full pulpit. Surely, there are other churches still affiliated with the PCUSA in your presbytery that had greater need. We are tired of being dictated to by those people in Louisville who think that just because they determine that a pulpit is empty, we need to kiss the prelate's ring. 6. Finally, he said, "As part of a constitutional church, the EOP is obliged to follow the constitutional process. That has not been the Kirk's way and their decision to disaffiliate unilaterally and sue the EOP and the PCUSA has hampered, in my judgment, the presbytery's ability to negotiate a gracious separation." First, there is that constitutional "obligation" argument again. Rings as hollow as ever. Convenient, but not pursuasive. More importantly, why should there be "negotiation?" The folks at the Kirk want to leave. Instead of acting like Pharoah, just let them go. We are tired of a denomination that thinks that "negotiating" ransom or tribute is even-handed. If, as you state, you love and respect the folks of the Kirk, just let them go. Michael R. McCarty How can WJK Press think of publishing books that deviate from PCUSA beliefs? September 5, 2006 I have never written in to you or any PCUSA forum before, but I must say I am disgusted with the way the liberal, so-called "progressive" sect has taken over everything from General Assembly to WJK Press. How can the publishing arm of the PCUSA even think of publishing books that deviate from PCUSA beliefs? Let the secular publishers worry about them. Let's stick to what our church is called to do and what we believe. Is that too much to ask? We do not have to be of the world, although that looks like what we are trying to be. I am sick to death of the liberal agenda and the high-jacking of the church to push their ideas. If they don't agree with our Confessions and order, then there are other churches they can look to. We need to stand on the Word as it is and always has been, not what a minority group wishes it was. We are either set apart or not. And, I think we need to remain set apart. Otherwise, why call ourselves a church? K.E. Black Bloomington, Ill. PCUSA needs to distance itself from heretical ideology September 5, 2006 Please let Dr. Charles Plant, who wrote a letter [posted September 1, 2006] to you, "Prostituted by Voices of Sophia," know that there is now an article which mentions Brock's heretical views along with others on VOW. I have worked on this most of August and agree with Dr. Plant the church needs to distance itself from all such heretical ideology. Viola Larson The Kirk would have been foolish to buy any plea of innocent motives September 5, 2006 James D. Miller, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Tulsa, Okla., and moderator, EOP Council writes [letter to the editor, posted September 1, 2006] that the Kirk of the Hills action impedes gracious separation and addresses three issues on which the Layman Online reported: 1. The Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery is not targeting Kirk of the Hills "members who disagree with the separation from the denomination." In the light of the vicious secret plan issued by the PCUSA lawyers and staff well before the 2006 GA and the equally vicious actions against PCUSA churches, pastors and property around the country, it would be foolish to trust the presbytery, synod and Louisville to be anything but vicious in a case involving one's own congregation. It is clear to anyone who has followed the stated clerk's pronouncements that it was not his job to enforce the PCUSA constitution in matters or defiance of ordination requirements. But we are witnessing the crushing effort the same clerk appears to be exerting in attempting to enforce dubious legal constitutional requirements in matters of property. It is clear from the legal direction and the performance; if you try to leave, these people will make it painful. It is a matter of trust. 2. "The presbytery has not identified 300 members of the Kirk who are opposed to leaving the denomination. We have not sought to identify a single person, and have no idea what that number might be." I don't know Pastor Miller. He is probably a good honest man; but there have been other good honest people that the hierarchy have used as stalking horses. The PCUSA already had waded into congregational liberal vs. Biblical disputes, on the side of the liberals. They find a few folks who want to continue with the decadent PCUSA, regardless; and they award the congregational property to the few dissenters – the true church. Any evangelical congregation would be wise to deliberate in absolute secret, come to a decision, hire civil lawyers and take their action before the hierarchy is aware of what happened. The Kirk would have been foolish, beyond measure, to buy any plea of innocent motives, no matter who makes the plea. It is a matter of trust and prudence. 3. "We never planned to disrupt worship or any other meetings at the Kirk. We made it known to the Kirk's clerk of session that the presbytery had a stated supply pastor ready to preach - since, under our constitution, the Kirk has no PCUSA pastoral leadership (their two pastors having already demitted their ordinations in the PCUSA). It was made also clear to their clerk of session and to one of the pastors that the presbytery's stated-supply pastor would only come if welcomed by the Kirk." The statement stretches credibility and really implies that the reader is gullible. Does anyone remember the physical confrontation in California when the PCUSA storm troops disrupted the service of worship? Why in the world would a session composed of intelligent people think that it would not happen in Tulsa, particularly when an expensive piece of real estate hung in the balance? It is a matter of seeing trust broken in other places by members of the same hierarchy. The fable goes something like this: Please, I am cold; warm me up. But you are a rattlesnake; you will bite me! I just want to be warm; Please, I have no way to warm myself. Please, warm me. But you are a rattlesnake; you will surely bite me. Trust me. Would I repay your hospitality with a poisonous bite? I promise; I will not bite my benefactor! OK, I will take you into the cabin, by the fire, and warm you. Oh, you broke your promise. You bit me. How could you do that? Hey, you knew I was a rattlesnake! It is a matter of trust – lost! James Logan McHenry, Md. Oh, to be a fly on the wall when confidential papers were posted on Web site September 5, 2006 Seems like the monarchy in King Louisville have been caught with their collective pants down! Very undignified, indeed. Wouldn't you have given anything to have been a fly on the wall in the board room when they found out their confidential opposition playbook was now available on the World Wide Web for all to see! Being suspicious by nature, I expect there's more where these documents came from. What now? I say, "Storm the Bastille! Off with their per capitas! Don't give them a dime. Like spoiled children, send them to their rooms and let them eat cake!" Let the commoners descend on their presbytery meetings with pitchforks in hand and act like something other than the frozen chosen. After all, David went against a giant with a sling and five rocks – one rock for Goliath and four more, one for each of Goliath's brothers – and a sword to use for cutting off heads. This is spiritual warfare. God's word has been dishonored, his holy name blasphemed and now his church is under attack. The pants have been dropped, the sheep costumes have come off and the wolves out in full view. For heaven's sake, it's time to do something. "Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong." I Corinthians 16:13 Cindy Coleman, member-at-large First Presbyterian Church Morganton, N.C. Six brave souls attempt to deal with the fallout from the GA's PUP decision September 5, 2006 In response to: Presbytery will consider 4 resolutions in response to approval of PUP report Hats off to elder hero's Bruce C. Ogden, Johan A. Batenburg and Timothy A. Curtis for their initiative in signing the petition for the special Sacramento Presbytery meeting. Also hats off to the brave Presbyterian ministers Rev. Donal Baird, Pastor Mark Write and Pastor Daniel V. Vraa for signing the same petition. You six brave souls are taking the bull by the horns and attempting to deal with the fallout from the PUP decision made by the 217 General Assembly. You are setting a good example by attempting to take action without getting this whole PCUSA mess into the courts. (ie: no church property confiscation or threat of pension losses etc.) I am praying that other elders, ministers or laymen may be encouraged by your aggressive attempt to fix this awful problem for the church at the presbytery level and stop this potential trainwreck being experienced by PCUSA. Elders, ministers, and laymen all over the country can take back control of things if they will simply get out of their pews and start doing something like you guys are. I wish you well brave hearts. God is still in control of things and "his Will" will be done. Phil Smith San Leandro Be unified and act not for property but for the integrity of the Holy Scripture September 5, 2006 Adam Boyd [letter to the editor, posted September 1, 2006] struck the nail squarely on the head and I wish I could have expressed my feeling so well. Most of us in the pews and on session have expected some leadership from the organizations within the PCUSA that have traditionally supported sane Biblical standards. The problem has been sitting there since at least 1978 and you could feel it coming at the 216th GA. Duh is not the answer. As long as it is the only answer, we are declaring to the world that we are ashamed of the Scripture and discredit ourselves before our Lord Jesus Christ. If there ever be a time for the 78 percent margin that maintained G6-0106b to be unified and to act it is now . Not for property and assets but for the integrity of the Holy Scripture. Bob Campbell, elder Kingman, Ariz. The values that our churches hold will be changed by the company we keep September 1, 2006 It is time for sessions to lead. Evangelicals waiting for leadership from the renewal groups have been disappointed. We have heard people speak of unity, polity, community, property, patience and a whisper of theology. What sessions have heard very little about is our pastoral responsibility to those we are called to lead. Many in our congregations find their conscience violated to a degree that is unsustainable. As leaders in the church, we have asked them to suspend their conviction and continue walking, for a time, a road that they believe brings dishonor to the name of our Savior. Many are willing to do this, again, for a time, trusting in God's provision for wisdom among their elected officers. But we cannot ignore that each day we ask them to continue we are placing them in a position that causes tremendous pain, compromising their witness and perhaps leading them to sin. "… But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for him it is unclean" (Romans 14:14b). At this point our concerns over property should pale. It has been argued that we should slow down and take time to study Scripture regarding the issues facing our church. The second part of this exhortation I applaud; the first has already been done. For a generation we have prayerfully considered the growing wave of unBiblical trends in the PCUSA. We have considered them in light of Scripture, we have attended debates, we have lobbied presbytery and the G.A. We have suffered Dirk Ficca, Jane Spahr, the ReImaging God Movement, the '67 Confession and the World Council of Churches. Now is the time to shepherd our congregations, defend their consciences. Of course it is difficult, maybe even impossible, to take action without appearing reactionary. At some point, however, consideration must end in decision. Put another way, a long engagement is wise, but after many years it will end with a breach of promise, doing the wrong thing for the right reason. Equally important is our responsibility for the type of churches we are building. To believe that we can remain in ministry partnerships with false teachers and not be changed ourselves is as naïve as the undergraduate convinced his theology will not be changed by the seminary he chooses to attend. The values that our churches hold, and the people who choose to join them, will be changed by the company we keep (I Cor. 15:33), and so the decisions we make now will be unavoidably formative for our next generation. Each of our churches, and many of our children, will look more like our denomination in ten years than they do today. Finally, it has been said that we must move slowly in light of the richness of our heritage and relationships. One only needs a short visit to Montreat to see this heritage being packed in boxes and moved to Louisville. On another level, I agree enthusiastically, but our heritage is not the tradition of any denomination; it is the advancement of the kingdom (I Peter 1:3-4). Our unity is with the body of Christ. Individual denominations are expressions of this, but they are not the thing itself. Scripture calls us to a connectional church, but our hope is not in any particular denomination; it is in the Church of Jesus Christ. Rise up O men of God; rise up sessions, and lead. Adam Boyd Montreat, N.C. Kirk's actions hamper presbytery's ability to negotiate a gracious separation September 1, 2006