Complete Packet - San Gabriel Presbytery

PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL
San Marino Community Church
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Twining Campbell, Stated Clerk
Mariko Yanagihara, Moderator-Elect
Bong Bringas, Vice Moderator-Elect
Wendy Tajima, Interim Executive Presbyter
8:30 a.m.
Registration and Hospitality
9:00
Call to Order TE Cyndie Crowell
Welcome
TE James Baird
9:05
Worship - Annual Communion Service and Installation of Moderators
9:45
Report of the Stated Clerk
9:50
Committee on Ministry
10:30
Order of the Day: Presbytery Council
10:50
BREAK
11:05
Report of the Interim Executive Presbyter
11:10
Governance Task Force
11:20
Administration and Finance
11:25
Peru Partnership – Report from the October Women’s Trip
Team Members:
Lyn Beecher, Angie DeCormier, Maria Cakarnicas, Cyndie
Crowell, Wendy Gist, Libbie Patterson, Karen Sapio, and
Wendy Tajima
11:40
Nominating
11:45
Adjourn with Prayer
TE Twining Campbell
RE Steve Salyards
TE Cyndie Crowell
TE Wendy Tajima
TE Bob Wendel
TE David Tomlinson
TE Rob Crowell
Community Presbyterian Church
1750 Virginia Rd.
San Marino, CA 91108
626 282-4181
REPORT OF THE STATED CLERK
REVISED
January 24, 2015
RECOMMENDATIONS:
(Items 1-5 are on the consent agenda)
1. That enrollment of minister and elder commissioners be by enrollment list, excuses properly filed with the
stated clerk be honored, and all honorably retired ministers and out of state ministers be excused unless
enrolled as present.
2. That the Minutes of the Stated Meeting of November 8, 2014 be approved.
3. That the proposed docket distributed in the packet be approved.
4. To approve the December 2014 Financial Report.
5. That all corresponding members voted upon and registered in writing with the stated clerk be seated. You
may comply with the “in writing” by bringing a note to the stated clerk. Please print clearly and remember
to list your name, presbytery or home church.
REPORT FOR THE RECORD:
1. Approved:
The Redress of Imbalance of Ruling Elders to Teaching Elders. Each congregation is permitted to have
double the Ruling Elders granted by the Book of Order. In addition each congregation is granted an
additional elder representative to offset the Teaching Elder to Ruling Elder Imbalance.
For 2015: total Teaching Elders = 136
total Ruling Elders = 139.
2. Received:
Examined candidate Jennifer Ackerman for ordination and validated her call as the Coordinator of the
Micah Groups at Fuller Theological Seminary. The Presbytery requested San Francisco Presbytery to ordain
her and will receive Jennifer into membership upon her ordination.
Examined and TE Charles Castles, HR for reception into San Gabriel Presbytery and approve his service as
half-time Interim Pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Temple City. Effective date: Oct. 27, 2014.
3. Dismissed
TE Fulton Lytle from Ministry as a Teaching Elder upon his reception as a member of the Covenant Order
of Evangelical Presbyterians (ECO).
San Gabriel Presbyterian Church, San Gabriel was dismissed to the Covenant Order of Evangelical
Presbyterians (ECO) effective January 7, 2015.
4. Approved:
The dissolution of the pastoral relationship between TE Karen Berns and San Marino Community Church,
San Marino. Effective date: Dec. 31, 2014.
Granted the status of Honorably Retired to TE Karen Berns, effective date: Dec. 31, 2014.
5. Approved:
The change in call for TE Margarita Reyes to a 62% position.
6. Granted:
Permission for TE Peter Tan-Gatue to begin serving at First Thai Presbyterian Church, Covina; effective
date: December 8, 2014.
7. Report of the Roster of the names of members of the Permanent Judicial Commission whose term expired
within the last six years (D-5.0206b)
Class of 2014 – Janice Takeda (RE)
Class of 2013 – Mark Smutny (TE), Mariko Yanagihara (TE)
Class of 2011 – Osvaldo Garcia (TE), Dee Kelley (RE), Nadine Quick (RE), Marguerite Shuster (TE)
Class of 2009 – Marie Castellano (RE), John Najarian (TE)
8. The Presbytery of San Gabriel has insurance coverage through Church Mutual Insurance Company in
accordance with G-3.0112.
FOR INFORMATION
1. A settlement agreement has reached in a remedial case involving Arcadia Presbyterian Church. Proof has
been received by the Permanent Judicial Commission that the Respondent has fulfilled all of the agreed
obligations; the remedial case is dismissed.
2. Presbytery will be voting on the Proposed Amendments to the Constitution approved by the 221st General
Assembly at the Saturday, May 2, 2015 meeting. A free copy of the amendment booklet can be downloaded
at http://store.pcusa.org/OGA14048
3. The next Review of Session Records will be Saturday, April 25th, 2014 beginning at 9:00 am at the
Presbytery Office in Pasadena.
4. San Gabriel Presbytery will meet at the following churches on these dates in 2015:
Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 at
Iglesia de la Comunidad Presbyterian Church, Los Angeles.
Saturday, Sept. 19th, 2015 at Shepherd of the Valley Presbyterian Church, Hacienda Heights
Saturday, Nov. 14th, 2015 at La Verne Heights Presbyterian Church, La Verne
5. Just a reminder – If you make a motion on the floor that changes the printed handouts substantially or is a
new motion, please write out your motion and turn it in to the stated clerk. It is always helpful to present
action items in writing in advance.
MINUTES
Presbytery of San Gabriel
Stated Meeting November 8, 2014
PRE-PRESBYTERY
Prior to the convening of the meeting, presentations were given on the proposed Revised By-Laws and on
the Presbytery’s New Beginnings process.
ASSEMBLE IN GOD’S NAME
The Presbytery of San Gabriel convened on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at Divine Light
Presbyterian Church, El Monte. A quorum was present as reflected in the roll. Teaching Elder Cyndie
Crowell opened the meeting with Prayer and the lighting of the Christ candle, the call to worship and a
hymn. Teaching Elder Cyndie Crowell moderated the meeting Ruling Elder Margy Wentz, served as
clerk. Teaching Elder Samuel Kim welcomed the presbytery.
ENGAGE IN GOD’S WORK
REPORT OF THE STATED CLERK
The Presbytery moved, seconded, and voted to adopt the Consent Agenda (Items 1-8).
1. That RE Margy Wentz serve as Stated Clerk for this meeting.
2. That enrollment of minister and elder commissioners be by enrollment list, excuses properly filed
with the stated clerk be honored, and all honorably retired ministers and out of state ministers be
excused unless enrolled as present. (See appendix A & B)
3. That the Minutes of the Stated Meeting of September 9, 2014 be approved.
4. That the proposed docket distributed in the packet be amended to replace the Report of the Interim
Executive Presbyter with a Report from Presbytery Council.
5. To approve the September 30, 2014 Financial Report. (See appendix C)
6. That all corresponding members voted upon and registered in writing with the stated clerk be
seated.
7. To approve the request of Village Presbyterian Church, Arcadia, to set aside the Book of Order
term limitations for elders.
8. To approve the Redress of Imbalance. (See appendix D)
REPORT FOR THE RECORD:
 Deceased:
The Rev. Larry Driskill Dec. 1, 2013

Received:
The Rev. Raafat Eglawly, as an Evangelist, pending transfer from the Synod of the Nile (a sister
denomination in Egypt). Effective date Sept. 9, 2014

Dismissed
The Rev. Peter Johnson to Catawba Presbytery of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church.
Effective date: Oct. 6, 2014.

Review of Session Records Thank you to the following churches who attended Record Review
on September 20th: Westminster - Temple City, Community Church - El Monte, Iglesia de la
Comunidad – Highland Park, Trinity - Pasadena, Pasadena Presbyterian - Pasadena, Good
Shepherd - Rowland Heights, Occidental - Eagle Rock, St. Andrews - La Puente, Shepherd of
the Valley - Hacienda Heights, Knox - Pasadena, Divine Light - El Monte, First Thai - Covina,
Community - West Covina, and Emmanuel Hispanic - Claremont.
Churches that HAVE NOT had their Session records reviewed this year are:
Alhambra True Light Presbyterian Church – Alhambra, Arabic Evangelical Presbyterian
Church – Arcadia, Arcadia Presbyterian – Arcadia, Capstone Chinese Presbyterian Church –
Arcadia, First Presbyterian – Azusa, First Filipino Presbyterian Church – Azusa, First
Presbyterian Church – Baldwin Park, Claremont Presbyterian Church – Claremont, Eagle
Rock Presbyterian Church – Los Angeles, Good Shepherd Taiwanese Presbyterian Church –
Monterey Park, First Presbyterian Church – Pomona, South Hills Presbyterian Church –
Pomona, San Gabriel Presbyterian Church – San Gabriel, Mideast Evangelical Presbyterian
Church – South Pasadena.
FOR INFORMATION
1. Information for your reference in 2015
Presbytery Minimums:
Full-Time Salary & Housing$ 51,095.00
Travel/Professional
2,425.00
Study
900.00
Pension Dues for 2015: total 35% Member Only, 36.5% Family Coverage (11% pension, 1%
Death & Disability, and 23% Member Only, 24.5% Family Medical)
IRS Standard Business Mileage rate for 2014 is 56.0 cents per mile.
2. San Gabriel Presbytery will meet at the following churches on these dates in 2015:
Saturday, Jan. 24th, 2015 at San Marino Community Church, San Marino
Saturday, May 2nd, 2015 at Iglesia de la Comunidad Presbyterian Church, Los Angeles.
Saturday, Sept. 19th, 2015 at Shepherd of the Valley, Hacienda Heights
Saturday, Nov. 14th, 2015 at La Verne Heights Presbyterian Church, La Verne
3. Presbytery usually meets in a church by invitation. If your church would like to host presbytery in
2014 please contact the stated clerk.
4. Churches hosting the presbytery plan meals for the number of people who have made
reservations. It is the presbytery policy that persons who have made a reservation, but do not
show up for their meal, reimburse the host church for the cost of their meal anyway. Please be
courteous in making and keeping your reservations for presbytery.
5. Just a reminder – If you make a motion on the floor that changes the printed handouts substantially
or is a new motion, please write out your motion and turn it in to the stated clerk. It is always
helpful to present action items in writing in advance.
6. The Presbytery Office address is:
San Gabriel Presbytery
1757 N. Lake Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91104
Phone Number: 626-794-1612
Fax Number:
626-794-1692
CORRESPONDING MEMBERS
It was moved, seconded and voted to seat Teaching Elder, Steve Wirth representing the Presbyterian
Foundation and a member of Los Ranchos Presbytery and Teaching Elder, Sara Armstrong, Missionary
and member of Santa Fe Presbytery as corresponding members for this meeting.
COUNCIL
Teaching Elder David Cortes-Fuentes reported for the Council.
San Gabriel Presbyterian Church – Gracious Dismissal
During its meeting on March 11, 2014, the Presbytery of San Gabriel approved the dismissal of San
Gabriel Presbyterian Church, following the process outlined in its Gracious Dismissal Policy. Prior to
negotiating terms of its dismissal, the Church was responsible to fulfill all debt obligations with the
PC(USA) and its agencies, as stated in the Gracious Dismissal Policy of our Presbytery. Since the March
meeting, it has come to our attention that San Gabriel Presbyterian Church has two Church Mortgage
Grants of $10,000 each, dating back to 1949, that have not been paid. Under the policy of the
Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program, churches only need to pay back these mortgage grants if
they cease to be a church of the PC(USA). These mortgage grants were discovered with San Gabriel
after the Presbytery approved the Gracious Dismissal of the Church and was unknown to the Church, as
the title was understood to be clear of all encumbrances, but prior to the effective date of dismissal. In
order to allow the Presbytery and San Gabriel Presbyterian Church to resolve this issue, and only this
issue, the Council of the Presbytery presents the following recommendation as a motion.
Recommendation: That the Presbytery of San Gabriel rescind the dismissal of San Gabriel
Presbyterian Church.
It was moved, seconded and voted to amend the Council’s motion as follows:
To amend the motion previously adopted at the Presbytery meeting on March 11, 2014, to approve
the dismissal agreement with San Gabriel Presbyterian Church, to include a payment of $20,000 to
cover the outstanding church mortgage grants, and to make the dismissal effective after the
congregation concurs and pays the $20,000. Any future obligation related to these church
mortgage grants will be negotiated between San Gabriel Presbytery and PILP.
After an opportunity for questions and discussion, it was moved, seconded and voted by more
than 2/3 vote to approve the amended motion.
The presbytery joined together in the Affirmation of Faith followed by the Passing of the Peace of Christ
and a hymn.
COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY – MINISTRY TEAM REPORT
Ruling Elder Steve Salyards reported for the Ministry Team.
For Information:
 COM MT approved the MIF of La Verne Heights Presbyterian Church, La Verne, and gave the
PNC their permission to circulate it in the search process for a pastor.
 The Draft Roll of Presbytery is included in this report. In an effort to be consistent we request all
Teaching Elders to check their status, and if incorrect, to inform the Stated Clerk of the correct
status.
 COM MT will be following up with churches that have not submitted their Pastoral Terms of Call.
 COM MT approved a paper on the Types of Pastoral Relationships pending input from the
Committee on Preparation for Ministry - Ministry Team and is considering a paper on Ethical
Standards for Teaching Elders.
 Pension Dues for 2015: total 35% Member Only, 36.5% Family Coverage (11% pension, 1% Death
& Disability, and 23% Member Only, 24.5% Family Medical)
It was moved, seconded and voted as follows:
Omnibus Motion
1. To approve the change in call for TE Margarita Reyes to a 62% position at the following annual
terms:
Salary
$ 24,564.72
Auto Allowance
1,515.60
Study Leave
900.00
Use of the manse valued at $ 7,369.47
Board of Pensions
14,785.56
2. To grant permission for TE Peter Tan-Gatue to begin serving at First Thai Presbyterian Church,
Covina beginning Dec. 8, 2014. Peter will meet with COM and come before Presbytery at the
January meeting.
3. To release TE Elder Fulton Lytle from Ministry as a Teaching Elder, upon his reception as a
member of the Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians (ECO).
It was moved, seconded and voted as follows:
1. To validate the ministry position of Coordinator of the Micah Groups of the Lloyd John Ogilvie
Center at Fuller Theological Seminary.
2. To examine Jennifer Ackerman for ordination to the validated ministry of Coordinator of the Micah
Groups at Fuller Theological Seminary; to request that San Francisco Presbytery ordain her; and,
to receive Jennifer into the membership of San Gabriel Presbytery upon her ordination. After a
period of examination appropriate for ordination, it was moved, seconded and voted to sustain the
examination. It was moved, seconded and voted to ordain Jennifer Ackerman.
3. To sustain the examination of TE Charles Castles, HR, for reception into San Gabriel Presbytery,
effective upon his dismissal from San Joaquin Presbytery, and approve his service as half-time
Interim Pastor at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Temple City, effective date: Oct. 27, 2014; at
the following terms:
Salary & Housing
$36,000.00
Pension & Medical Benefits
4,320.00
(post-retirement service)
Vacation - Four (4) weeks per year
Study Leave
875.00
(2 weeks annually – reimbursed as used)
Reimbursement of Ministry Expense 2,345.00
Automobile (reimbursed as used)
0.56 per mile
4. To approve the dissolution of the pastoral relationship between TE Karen Berns and San Marino
Community Church, San Marino, effective date: Dec. 31, 2014
5. To grant the status of Honorably Retired to TE Karen Berns, effective date: Dec. 31, 2014.
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE MINISTERY TEAM
Teaching Elder Dave Tomlinson reported for the team. TE Tomlinson reported that the presbytery has
done very well staying within its budget. He then spoke to the 2015 Proposed Budget and the Direct
Mission reports. After an opportunity for questions, it was moved, seconded and voted to approve
the 2015 Budget as presented. (See appendix E)
GOVERNANCE TASK FORCE REPORT
Teaching Elder Bob Wendel reported for the Task Force. TE Wendel reported on the proposed revision
to the Bylaws which will be voted on at the January 2015 Presbytery Meeting.
SPECIAL MUSIC
The presbytery was treated to a duet by two members of Divine Light Presbyterian Church followed by the
Reading of Psalm 100 by TE Mariko Yanagihara and a hymn.
Vice Moderator, TE Mariko Yanagihara moderated the meeting.
PEACE JUSTICE AND THE INTEGRITY OF CREATION
TE Matt Colwell reported for the Task Force and introduced TE Sara Armstrong, Mission Co-Worker. TE
Armstrong reported on her mission work in Peru and her work with our Living Waters teams.
The presbytery celebrated the retirement of Cheryl Prentice, Executive Director of La Casa de San
Gabriel. The presbytery acknowledged her many years of service to this important community center.
UPDATE FROM THE PRESBYTERIAN FOUNDATION
Teaching Elder Steve Wirth the new Minister Relations Officer for the Presbyterian Foundation invited the
presbytery to take advantage of the services available from the Foundation. Financial workshops are
available as well as an online giving program.
NOMINATIONS MINISTRY TEAM
Teaching Elder Mariko Yanagihara reported for the team.
After an opportunity for nominations from the floor, it was moved, seconded and voted to elect the
following:
PERSONNEL
Chairperson: Ruling Elder Knox Cologne
Class of 2015
Ruling Elder Knox Cologne, San Marino Community Church
Class of 2017
Teaching Elder Cynthia Warner Crowell, Trinity Presbyterian Church
ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE
Chairperson: Teaching Elder David Tomlinson
Class of 2017
Ruling Elder Sterrett Collins, Pasadena Presbyterian Church
Ruling Elder Carolyn Harris, Eagle Rock Presbyterian Church
RE Maria Cacarnakis, of Pasadena Presbyterian Church.
COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
Chairperson: Ruling Elder Steve Salyards
Class of 2017
Teaching Elder Roberto Colón, Igelesia de la Comunidad
Ruling Elder Sonnie Swenston, First, Baldwin Park
Ruling Elder Robert Thomas, Pasadena Presbyterian Church
COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY
Chairperson: Teaching Elder Matt Colwell
Class of 2017
Teaching Elder Matthew Colwell, Knox Presbyterian Church
Teaching Elder Marsha Fowler, Azusa Pacific University
VICE MODERATOR*
Ruling Elder Arnolfo (Bong) Bringas, San Marino Community Church
*The Vice Moderator will become Moderator in his second year and Chair of Council in his third year
Thanks to all those who have agreed to serve and those whose terms have ended!
COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY – MINISTRY TEAM REPORT
The CPM Ministry Team met on Tuesday, October 7, 2014 at Knox Presbyterian Church, Pasadena
at which time a quorum was present.
For Information:

Candidate Paul Eng, a member of True Light Presbyterian Church, Alhambra, was
certified ready to receive a call and circulate his PIF.

The team met with Candidate Yohan Kim for an annual consultation and recommends
continuation in the process. Reports to the individual and sponsoring session have
been provided as appropriate. Yohan is a member of Pasadena Presbyterian Church,
Pasadena

The team met with Certified Ready Candidate Sterrett Collins for an annual
consultation and recommends continuation in the process. Reports to the individual
and sponsoring session have been provided as appropriate. Sterrett is a member of
Pasadena Presbyterian Church, Pasadena
BRIEF ANOUNCEMENTS, CONCERNS, CELEBRATIONS
The presbytery was given an opportunity to share joys and concerns and events happening in the
presbytery.
Interim Executive Presbyter, TE Wendy Tajima led the presbytery in prayer followed by a hymn.
ADJOURN
The presbytery adjourned at 12:05 p.m. with prayer and the benediction.
Respectfully Submitted,
Margy Wentz, Acting Stated Clerk
TEACHING ELDER PRESBYTERY ROLL
DATE NOVEMBER 8, 2014
E
@
E
@
√
√
E
E
E
√
@
E
@
E
E
@
@
@
E
E
E
E
@
@
@
@
E
E
√
@
@
√
√
E
@
@
E
@
E
@
E
E
E
E
@
E
√
@
@
@
E
E
@
@
ABHARI, MEHDI
ANDERSON, BARBARA
ANDERSON, BARBARA P
BAIRD, JAMES
BALLENGER, LARRY
BATEMAN, BECCA
BEANLAND, GAYLE
BENZEL, CLIFF
BERNS, DONALD
BERNS, KAREN
BIBAWI-SOLIMAN, VEN.
BOLES, LARRY
BOLES, PAUL
BRIGHT, ZACHARY
BROWN, RAYMOND K.
BUCHANAN, MARK
BURNETT, JOHEE
CALHOUN, BRAD
CAMPBELL, MARTHA
CAMPBELL, TWINING
CARLSON, CATHARINE GRIER
CARLSON, MARK
CASTELLANO, PAT
CHATFIELD, DONALD F.
CHEN, SHUI-TENG
CHRISTMAN, VIRGINIA
COATES, JESSIE
COLON, ROBERTO
COLWELL, MATTHEW
CONNER, JIM
CORMODE, SCOTT
CORTES FUENTES, D.
CROWELL, CYNTHIA
CROWELL, ROBERT
DAILEY, ERIK
DAILEY, MILLASON
D’ELIA, JOHN
DAVIDSON, JACK
DAVIS, HAROLD
DAVIS, STEVE
DAWSON, MICHAEL
DE MELO, JAIRTON
DECHAWAN, PRACHUAB
DEMAREST, GARY
DONNER, ADAM
DUGGAN THOMAS
DUONG, JOHN
DYRNESS, BILL
EDWARDS, DOUG
ELGAWLY, RAAFAT
FOWLER, MARSHA
GARCIA, OSVALDO
GIRGIS, MAGDY
GITHUMBI, STEVEN
E
E
E
@
E
E
E
E
@
E
E
E
@
@
E
E
E
E
E
E
@
E
E
√
E
E
@
√
E
@
E
E
@
E
E
@
@
E
@
E
√
E
@
E
@
E
√
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
GLENN, CASPER
GOODERICH, CHARLES
GRANT, KEN
GRIEFFICE, JASON
HAGNER, DON
HAMBURGER, RALPH
HAWTHORNE, DON
HENDRICKS, DEAN
HERTIG, YOUNG LEE
HETTISH, RICHARD
HILL, TOM
HOEY, ERIC
HSIEH, FRANK
HUANG, BOB
HUANG, DAVID
IYOYA, NICHOLAS
JACOBY, ROBERT
JARVIS, ANDREW
JOHNSON, HARRIET
JOHNSON, ROBERT
KAMEL, HISHAM
KANG, JOSEPH
KIM, CHARLES
KIM, SAMUEL
KIM, SANGWHA
KING, PAMELA
KINSLER, ROSS
KISER, KAREN
KLIEWER, MARK
KO, TAE-HYUNG
KOONS, PATRICIA
LAI, PETER
LAI, PING TUNG
LAMB, LISA
LEE, DAVID
LEE, DONGWOO
LEE, JAMES SEUNG
LIM, JUNG
LIN, DAVY
LINTHICUM, ROBERT
LITTLE, BRYCE
LODWICK, ROBERT
LORENZ, AL
LORIMER, JOHN
LUTZ, DAVID
LUTZ, STEPHEN
LY, KEN
LYTLE, FULTON
MACK, BURTON
MADDOX, DON
MADRIGAL, LUIS
MARKHAM, PAUL
MCCLAIN, WARREN
MCCURRY, DON
√
@
E
E
E
√
@
E
E
√
@
E
@
E
E
@
E
√
E
@
E
@
@
√
√
√
@
@
E
E
@
@
@
@
E
E
E
E
E
@
E
√
√
@
E
E
E
E
E
E
E
@
E
E
MCDANIEL, REX
MCHUGH, ADAM
MESSINGER, THOMAS
METCALF, STEVE
MEZA, JOSEPH
MILLS, ANN
MOLDEN, RICHARD
MOLLER, GARTH
MOON, CYRIS
MOORE, NANCY
MORA, HUGO
MORGAN, DALE
MURPHY, CHRIS
MUSCH, RON
NAJARIAN, JOHN
NELSON, TARRY
NEWSTEAD, JANE
O’GRADY, JEFF
OLIVER, JIM
OSIMO, ANTHONY
OSIRIPAIBUL, THANIT
OVERHOLSER, DENISE
PAK, DAVID
PAK, KYONG-GUN
PARK, HEIDI
PARKER, GREG
PEACE, DWIGHT
PENG, JAMES
POPE, GEORGE
POTTER, RALPH
RAMOS, SANTOS
RANDALL, VIKKI
RASMUSSEN, SARAH
REYES, MARGARITA
ROBINSON, JAMES
RODRIGUEZ, TONY
ROGERS, JACK
ROSE, DALE
RUPPART, RANDALL
SANDERS, JAMES
SANTANA-GRACE E.
SAPIO, KAREN
SHANNON, FOSTER
SHERVINGTON, ROGER
SHUSTER, MARG
SIEMON, JEFFREY
SIMMEN, LOUIS
SMUTNY, MARK
SOGA, KEIJI
SPAHN, DAVE
STACKHOUSE, WIL.
STAHMER, BRUCE
STEBE, ROBERT
STOCK, JOAN
APPENDIX A
E STOECKLY, EUGENE
E STOUT, BARBARA
@ SU, SEN YUAN
E SUPINGER, ROCKY
E SYMONS, JAMES
√ TAJIMA, WENDY
E TAYLOR, TOM
√ TOMLINSON, DAVE
E TRACY, KEN
@ TSAY, ALFIE
E VAN NESS, WILLIAM
@ WANG, CHUNG-HSIN
@ WASHBURN, BRAD
√ WATTS-AFYRIE, N.
√ WENDEL, ROBERT
E WENTZ, TOM
E WILLIAMS, HEATHER
√ WILLIAMS, PATRICIA
E WONG, HOOVER
E WOO, DAVID
E WOO, FRANKLIN
E WOODBERRY, DUDLEY
√ YANAGIHARA, MARIKO
E YEE, ED
@ YEH, KAOFANG
E YU, BENJAMIN
EDUAL MEMBERSHIP
√ DE ROSAS, ANGEL
√ =PRESENT
E =EXCUSED
@ =ABSENT
40 RULING ELDERS
27 TEACHING ELDERS
APPENDIX B
ELDER COMMISSIONERS
November 8, 2014
(#)= COMMISSIONERS ALLOWED
ALHAMBRA TRUE LIGHT(2)
TUEY LEE
KITTY CHIM
DIAMOND BAR NORTHM. (2)
ALTADENA FIRST (2)
ROBERT TAKATA
BOB UCHIDA
EL MONTE COMMUNITY (2)
STEPHENE MOSELEY
BOB LOZA
ARCADIA, ARABIC (2)
ABSENT: 2
EL MONTE, DIVINE LT. (2)
SUNG KI PARK
HYUK JOO KWON
PHILL WILLIAMS
ABSENT: 1
ARCADIA PRESBYTERIAN (2)
ABSENT: 2
ARCADIA CAPSTONE (2)
ABSENT: 2
HAC. HGTS. SOTV (2)
MEG TAM
FREYA SCHMUS
LA PUENTE, ST ANDREWS (2)
ARCADIA VILLAGE (2)
KATHARAN BARROWS
MARIANNE COMPTON
AZUSA FILIPINO (2)
ABSENT: 2
AZUSA FIRST (2)
ABSENT: 2
BALDWIN PARK (2)
SONNIE SWENSTON
MELINDA FORBES
CLAREMONT, CLRMT. (4)
ABSENT: 4
PASADENA NEW HOPE (3)
ABSENT: 3
PASADENA. PRES. (7)
MARGY WENTZ
MARIA CACARNAKIS
STERRETT COLLINS
EDMUNDO VASQUEZ
ABSENT: 3
PASADENA TRINITY (3)
ABSENT: 3
ABSENT: 2
PAS. WESTMINSTER (3)
ABSENT: 3
LA VERNE HTS (2)
ABSENT: 2
POMONA FIRST (3)
ABSENT: 3
L.A. EAGLE ROCK (2)
ABSENT: 2
POMONA SO. HILLS (3)
ABSENT: 3
L.A. GRACE (4)
ABSENT: 4
ROSEMEAD FIRST (3)
ABSENT: 3
L.A. IGLESIA DE LA
COMUNIDAD (4)
EXCUSED: 4
ROWLAND HTS. KOREAN (5)
L.A. OCCIDENTAL (4)
EXCUSED: 4
CLAREMONT EM HISP. (2)
PEDRO CASTRO
JOSE L. GONZALEZ
MONROVIA FIRST (4)
ABSENT: 4
COVINA, FAITH GRACE (3)
ABSENT: 3
MONT. PK. TAIWANESE (4)
ABSENT: 4
COVINA FIRST THAI (2)
SOMSAK POOLPERM
BETSY MUENYONG
PASADENA KNOX (4)
ABSENT: 4
PAS. FIRST TAIWANESE (4)
ABSENT: 4
ABSENT: 5
SAN MARINO COM. (7)
PHILIP LAO
JOHN MORRIS
NANCY SWANSON
ALISON MORER
TOM MILLAR
BILL WELLS
BILL PARROTT
SO. PAS. CALVARY (3)
HOLLY LEE VECCHIO
ABSENT: 2
SO. PAS. MIDEAST EVANG. (3)
ABSENT: 3
APPENDIX B
ELDER COMMISSIONERS
November 8, 2014
(#)= COMMISSIONERS ALLOWED
TEMPLE CITY, GRACE (4)
ABSENT: 4
TEMPLE CITY WESTMIN (4)
PAT COLLINS
BOB PITZER
LYNN BEST
LAURA-JEAN SLYKHUIS
WEST COVINA COM. (3)
ABSENT: 3
COUNCIL ELDERS (5)
STEVE SALYARDS
KNOX COLOGNE
ARNOLFO BRINGAS
MELINDA FORBES*signed in as
elder commissioner
ABSENT: 1
COMMISSIONED RULING
ELDER (4)
ROBERT THOMAS
ABSENT: 3
CERTIFIED CHRISTIAN
EDUCATOR (WITHOUT VOTE)
HAZEL HARKEN
Committee on Ministry Ministry Team
Report to Presbytery
January 24, 2015
COM RECOMMENDS FOR ACTION:
1. To examine Peter Tan-Gatue for membership upon his transfer from Pacific Presbytery and to approve
his call as pastor at First Thai Presbyterian Church, Covina, CA. Effective date of membership Jan. 24,
2015 (Peter has been on the field since Dec. 8th, 2014); at the following terms:
Salary & Housing
$ 50,096.00
Full Pension & Medical Benefits
0.00
Vacation
Four (4) weeks per year (1 week after 3 months)
Study Leave
885.00 and two (2) weeks per year
Three-month paid Clergy Renewal Leave in the seventh year of service
Reimbursement of Ministry Expenses
2,375.00
Moving Costs (up to)
3,000.00
2. To examine and commission for one year RE Arnolfo “Bong” Bringas as a Commissioned Ruling
Elder; to approve his three-quarter time service at San Marino Community Church, San Marino, with the
approval to serve the sacraments. Effective date: Jan 24, 2015. At terms to be presented at Presbytery.
3. To concur with the request of TE Mark Carlson and the congregation First Presbyterian Church, Azusa,
CA to dissolve the pastoral relationship between TE Mark Carlson and the congregation of First
Presbyterian Church, Azusa. Effective date: Dec. 31, 2014
4. To grant TE Mark Carlson the status of Honorably Retired. Effective date: Dec. 31, 2014.
5. To concur with new COM policies as presented. COM has approved a policy on Categories of Pastoral
Ministry and a policy on Standards for Ethical Behavior of Non-Pastor Teaching Elders and
Leaders. Both of these policies were included with the packet
OMNIBUS MOTION
1. To approve the Administrative Commission to ordain and install Jennifer Ackerman on March 8, 2014.
TE Mariko Yanagihara (New Hope Church) to preside
RE Arnolfo Bringas (San Marino Community Church)
RE Maria Cacarnakis (Pasadena Presbyterian Church)
TE Chris Murphy (Fuller Theological Seminary)
TE Wendy Tajima (San Gabriel Presbytery)
Corresponding Members: TE Dr. Mark Labberton (San Francisco Presbytery)
TE Dr. Tim Dearborn (Seattle Presbytery)
TE Lindsey Reed (San Francisco Presbytery)
The Board of Pensions dues for 2015 now includes an additional 1.5% medical dues for
dependent coverage. San Gabriel Presbytery compensation minimum includes this dependent
coverage, which would raise the Board of Pensions dues to 36.5% (11% Pension, 1% Death & Disability,
24.5% Medical). For pastors without dependents, the dues are 35%.
FOR INFORMATION:
In Memoriam
Necrology Report 2014
Earle R. Harvey, Jr.
Earle Ralston Harvey, Jr. was born July 17, 1919 in Hankou China to Missionary parents and died on May 4,
2014. Earle graduated from Occidental College in 1942 and then attended San Francisco Theological
Seminary earning an M. Div in 1945 and an MA (in church music) in 1953. Upon his ordination on May 20,
1945 at Burlingame Presbyterian Church Earle served in churches in Nevada, California, Wyoming, and Iowa
as well as serving as a missionary in China and India. Earle served as a commissioner to General Assembly
twice before his retirement in 1986. Even in his retirement Earle continued to serve the church as supply
pastor for two churches in New Zealand and then a few years later as supply pastor for a church in Oregon.
In addition to his parish and missionary work Earle also served as a Prison Chaplain for the San Diego
Juvenile Court and was the Dean of Junior Choir Camps at Pacific Palisades Conference Center for ten years.
Jack Makonda
Jack Ishak Makonda was born on December 18, 1939 and died on August 22, 2014. Jack was baptized by De
Protestantsche Gemeente in Banjarmasin, south Borneo/Kalimantan, Indonesia. After earning a Masters
degree in Economics, Business and Finance from State University Diponegoro Jack spent twenty years
working in various companies, banks and financial institutions in Jakartaim Indonesia. During this time Jack
was chairman of GMKI (Gerakan Mahasiswa Kristen Indonesia – Indonesian Christian Student Movement),
serving 23 different churches in Semarang (Central Java). Jack and his family became members of Michilinda
Presbyterian Church (now New Hope) and he was elected a Ruling Elder in 1995. During a mission trip with
Michilinda back to Indonesia, Jack felt called to ministry. Under care of the session and San Gabriel
Presbytery he enrolled at San Francisco Theological Seminary and earned an M. Div in 2004. Upon
ordination in 2012, Jack served with the National Indonesian Presbyterian Council as Evangelist and Field
Staff member and he translated the Book of Order into Indonesian language that was approved by the NIPC
that same year.
Presbytery of San Gabriel
Categories of Pastoral Ministry
Approved by COM MT 1/12/15
The current Book of Order has streamlined the categories of pastoral relationships which are bound by
constitutional restrictions. This allows for a presbytery to further define pastoral relationships that it believes
would be helpful as the presbytery works with a church to plan for the most suitable type of relationship. The
Book of Order gives the following main categories of pastoral relationship:
1. Installed (G-2.0504a): can be pastor, co-pastor, or associate pastor, to be installed for an indefinite
period or for a designated term determined by the presbytery in consultation with the congregation and
specified in the call. When a congregation has two co-pastors and the relationship of one of them is
dissolved, the other remains as pastor. The relationship of an associate pastor is not dependent upon
the pastor, but an associate pastor is ordinarily not eligible to be the next installed pastor of the
congregation.
Note: San Gabriel Presbytery has adopted the practice of determining at the initial call of an associate
whether that associate is eligible to be considered as the pastor of the congregation to which the
associate is being called.
2. Temporary (G-2.0504b): the session, with the approval of presbytery, obtains the temporary pastor (as
opposed to the congregation with installed pastors). No formal call shall be issued and no formal
installation shall take place. A specified period of service is set but not to exceed twelve months in
length, which is renewable with the approval of presbytery. The temporary pastor is ordinarily not
eligible to serve as the next installed pastor, co-pastor, or associate pastor. Titles and terms for
temporary relationships shall be determined by the presbytery.
Note: San Gabriel Presbytery has adopted the practice of determining, when the services of a
temporary pastor is begun, whether the temporary pastor is eligible to be considered as an installed
pastor for that congregation.
Installed Pastoral Relationships
The sub-categories of installed pastor are not subject to change by an individual presbytery. However, the role
of a “Designated Pastor” has evolved, so the prior restrictions of a designated pastor have been eliminated.
Now, any church can call a pastor to an indefinite term or to a designated term. A designated pastor, therefore,
is not to be confused with a temporary pastor. The length of term can be any length, as determined by the
presbytery when shaping the form of pastoral leader best suited for the church at that point in time. The church
session and presbytery should meet to discuss a designated pastoral relationship about six months prior to the
end of the designated term, to decide whether to renew or extend the term, remove the designation, or
dissolve the relationship.
Temporary Pastoral Relationships
A suggested list of temporary pastoral relationships is as follows:
1. Interim or Transitional Pastor: someone who is invited to help a church intentionally reexamine its
mission and its readiness to call a new pastor in anticipation of calling a new installed pastor. An interim
(also known as an intentional interim or transitional or transformational pastor) is usually trained in
transitional ministry and signs a contract that outlines key interim tasks (as determined by the church
session and presbytery) and restricts the interim pastor from applying for the installed pastoral position.
The term is ordinarily 12 months and would be renewed only after the presbytery has considered the
progress which the church is making in its transitional work. In certain cases the presbytery and session
may enter a relationship with the understanding that the interim period will be longer than 12 months,
though the contract period cannot exceed 12 months at a time. The interim relationship may be
terminated by either the interim pastor or the session with 30 days’ notice unless specified otherwise in
the contract. There is no expectation that the interim will stay with the church until the next installed
pastor is called. There is an expectation that when the installed pastor is called, the interim follows the
same separation ethics that guides a departing installed pastor.
2. Supply Pastor: someone who is employed by the session of a church for pastoral services for no more
than 12 months per term, when the session is not actively preparing to call an installed pastor. A church
may employ a supply pastor if there is uncertainty as to the church’s ability to call an installed pastor, if
the presbytery is directly involved in working with a church on its future direction, the church needs
time before they can enter into an active search for an installed pastor, or for whatever reason the
church does not have the intention of calling an installed pastor.
3. Ruling Elder Commissioned to Particular Pastoral Service (CRE): a ruling elder trained and
commissioned by the presbytery to perform certain pastoral duties. The presbytery will assign the
specific authorized responsibilities of the CRE, which may include moderating the session, serving
Sacraments, etc. The commission is for a defined length of time not exceeding three years, though the
term can be renewed, and the presbytery shall review the commission at least annually. The CRE is
authorized for the congregation or tasks as outlined in the commission, and when that service is
completed, the ruling elder may be listed as available to serve but not authorized until commissioned
again by the presbytery. A teaching elder shall be assigned as a mentor and supervisor. While the
commission is in effect, the CRE may be considered a voting member of presbytery on behalf of that
congregation.
4. Transitional Consultant: when a pastor leaves a church, the presbytery, through the COM MT, meets
with the session to determine how the pastoral responsibilities will be fulfilled. In certain cases a
session may employ someone who specializes in short-term transitional work before another pastor is
invited to serve. In crisis situations this consultant is referred to as a “First Responder.”
Compensation for temporary pastors, including CREs, is equivalent to that of installed pastors. Transitional
consultants are contracted for specific short-term responsibilities so are not compensated in the same
manner.
Other Relationships with Teaching Elders or CREs
1. Tentmaking Pastor: a teaching elder or CRE who is called to a church of the presbytery who agrees to
work for compensation that is less than the presbytery minimum, and who is also employed in another
position. The COM MT must be careful in working with the church to assess the viability of a
congregation that cannot afford to pay the presbytery minimum, and to ensure that justice issues
related to fair compensation are addressed. The relationship with the pastor’s other job should be
clarified—the other position does not need to be in ministry, but should not be in conflict with the
values of the church or the ethical standards for teaching elders, and the church needs to respect time
constraints in order to allow the pastor to fulfill h/her obligations to the other employer. It is suggested
that relationships with tentmaking pastors have designated terms, either as temporary or installed, so
that the compensation can be reviewed on a regular basis.
2. Evangelist/Organizing Pastor: as mission needs and opportunities arise, the presbytery may contract
with individuals to form and lead new worshiping communities or new church starts. As long as the new
worshiping community is not yet chartered (and therefore no session is yet in place), the evangelist or
organizing pastor may be employed by the presbytery, accountable to the presbytery, and covered by
presbytery insurance.
3. Commissioned Pastor (not to be confused with CRE): in exceptional circumstances, the presbytery may
choose to approve the placement of someone who is not yet authorized for pastoral responsibilities in a
supervised pastoral role. Examples include a candidate who is not yet certified ready to receive a call, a
pastor from another denomination who is working with the presbytery to prepare for ministry within
the PC(USA), or a candidate who is certified ready but the church and/or pastor are not committed to
making this a call. If the COM MT approves such a relationship, the term will be no longer than 12
months, there will be a teaching elder appointed as a supervisor with regular meetings between student
pastor and supervisor, and the presbytery may authorize another person to moderate the session
and/or serve sacraments, or make other restrictions on the ministry as needed. The term may be
renewed for no more than 12 months, and only after Presbytery review.
4. Parish Associate: a teaching elder who agrees to work with a church in a limited capacity, upon the
invitation of the moderator of session and with the approval of the session and COM MT. The parish
associate may or may not be financially compensated, is not subject to the presbytery minimum, and is
not to be considered a pastor of the church but will be a support to the pastor. However, the parish
associate is bound by the same ethical guidelines as a pastor, including separation ethics touched on in
G-2.0905 and expanded on by presbytery policy.
5. Pastor Emeritus: an honorary title given to a pastor after s/he retires from a church. The role of “Pastor
Emeritus” gives the former pastor no authority to provide pastoral services, leadership, or influence in
the former church, and cannot be compensated by the church. As with the parish associate, the pastor
emeritus’ work with the former church is contingent on the invitation of the moderator of session and
with the approval of the session and COM MT. It is suggested that the title Pastor Emeritus not be
considered for at least one year after the pastor’s retirement.
PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL
STANDARDS FOR ETHICAL BEHAVIOR
OF NON-PASTOR TEACHING ELDERS AND LEADERS
Approved by COM MT 1/12/15
PREFACE
The relationship between a pastor and congregation is often deeply personal, built on an
accumulation of shared transitional and transformational times in personal and corporate lives. It has
evolved through teaching, preaching, sacraments, weddings, funerals, presence in times of crisis,
praying with and for members, counseling, and shared leadership. The pastor has encouraged people in
worship, equipped them for tasks, helped bring forth gifts, and prepared them for mission. During these
times in most cases trust, confidence, admiration, affection, fondness, respect, and love have grown. The
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) supports healthy relationships between pastor and congregation, which
require others in positions of influence to respect the covenant relationship that has been established
with the current pastor.
When the relationship between a pastor and a congregation ends for any reason, it marks the
beginning of a period of high emotions, uncertainty, and excitement for both the pastor and the
congregation. In the months and years that follow, the congregation will evaluate its ministry and seek
new leadership. This is a particularly important time in the life of the congregation and it requires
appropriate distance from the past pastor so that the congregation can embrace its future. Likewise, that
time is important for the former pastor to embrace a new stage in his or her life whether that is
retirement, a new call, a new vocation, or a period of Sabbath from the practice of ministry. When
congregations and former pastors do not keep appropriate distance from each other, it impedes the
ability of both to accept the guidance of the Holy Spirit in this new stage of their lives.
Because there are multiple educational institutions and church-related retirement communities
within its boundaries, San Gabriel Presbytery is greatly blessed by the presence of theological
academics and retired church leaders in our congregations. Because they are often held in great esteem
by congregation members due to education or current or former positions of leadership, it is important
for those in influential positions to show affirmative support for the covenant relationship between
pastor and congregation.
While there is no document that can cover every circumstance, this document provides guidance
for members and congregations of San Gabriel Presbytery to maintain clear role definition of leadership
within our churches. It is a local application of PC(U.S.A.) polity as it pertains to pastoral relationships.
TO WHOM THESE STANDARDS APPLY
• Pastors
For the purposes of this document, the term “pastor” applies to any Teaching Elder or Commissioned
Ruling Elder who has been authorized to serve in an installed or temporary pastoral relationship.
When a pastoral relationship is dissolved, all former pastors, whether they are teaching elders who
served in installed or temporary positions or commissioned ruling elders, are expected to abide by a
Boundaries Covenant out of respect for their ordination vow to “be governed by our church’s polity, and
abide by its discipline… and be a friend among your colleagues in ministry” (W-4.4003e).
• Pastor Emeritus(a)
When a pastor retires, a congregation may choose to honor that pastor with the title “Pastor
Emeritus(a).” This is an honorary title only, and does not offer any authorization for service or
influence on the ministry of the congregation. A Pastor Emeritus(a) cannot be compensated by the
church, and is expected to abide by the standards for ethical separation. Any work with the former
church is contingent on the invitation of the moderator of session and with the approval of the session
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 1/8
and Presbytery Committee on Ministry. It is suggested that the title “Pastor Emeritus(a)” not be
considered for at least one year after the pastor’s retirement, and the session shall obtain the approval of
the Presbytery Committee on Ministry before proceeding.
• Parish Associates
A Parish Associate is a teaching elder who agrees to work with a church in a limited capacity, upon the
invitation of the moderator of session and with the approval of the session and the Presbytery Committee
on Ministry. This relationship is dissolved when a new moderator of session is appointed, unless the new
moderator extends a new invitation. The parish associate may or may not be financially compensated,
is not subject to the presbytery minimum, and is not to be considered a pastor of the church but will be a
support to the pastor. However, the parish associate is bound by the same ethical guidelines as a pastor,
including separation ethics touched on in G-2.0905 and expanded on by presbytery policy.
• Church Leaders
In this document, the term “Church Leaders” refers to persons who carry unusual influence within a
congregation, such as honorably retired pastors, academics with training in theology or ecclesiology,
and family members of former pastors. Whether these individuals are teaching or ruling elders, and
whether or not they attempt to exert influence, it is advised that these church leaders understand the
impact of their opinions and behavior on the relationship between pastor and the congregation in which
they are active. As members of a congregation, or teaching elders active in the ministry of a particular
congregation, they are expected to abide by the same ethical standards and affirmations that are set for
all members of the congregation. If they hold specific leadership responsibilities, those responsibilities
should be subject to reaffirmation by the new moderator of session, as for a parish associate.
• Congregations
Congregations are asked, when a pastor is installed, to affirm the pastoral relationship. Whether or not
the pastoral service is installed or temporary, it is appropriate to act in a manner consistent with these
affirmations, including to “listen to the word he (she) preaches, welcome his (her) pastoral care, and
honor his (her) authority as he (she) seeks to honor and obey Jesus Christ our Lord.” (W-4.4006b(3))
When a pastoral relationship is dissolved, the session of a congregation is expected to formulate a
Boundaries Covenant with the departing pastor, and to help teach the congregation to abide by it out of
respect for the former pastor, his or her new call (or retirement), and the new pastor of the congregation
and the promises that the congregation makes to that new pastor “to respect his (her) decisions, and to
follow as he (she) guides.” (W-4.4006b(2))
• Presbytery
The Presbytery has the responsibility to be “Pastor, Counselor, and Advisor to Teaching Elders and
Congregations” (G-3.0307), which includes nurturing healthy relationships between current pastor and
congregation, and to help teaching elders to transition to new places of ministry or rest. Whenever a
pastoral relationship is dissolved, the Presbytery through its Committee on Ministry will work with
departing pastor and session to develop a Boundaries Covenant, and encourage all parties to live within
the terms of that covenant. When other church leaders form significant relationships with a particular
congregation, the Presbytery may also encourage the adoption of a Boundaries Covenant to make clear
the nature of that relationship as it relates to the congregation’s covenant relationship with its pastor.
• Removal by the Presbytery
If a pastor is removed by the presbytery, or renounced jurisdiction while under investigation, that pastor
shall not be invited to return without the approval of the Committee on Ministry.
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 2/8
• Other Relationships
While the Committee on Ministry does not require a Boundaries Covenant for persons serving
congregations in other capacities, (e.g., youth ministry directors, Christian Educators, organists, etc), it
commends this document to congregations as a way to have a discussion about separation ethics when
those individuals leave their employ.
PC(U.S.A.) POLITY
Recognizing the difficulty that a continuing relationship between a former pastor and a congregation
can cause, the Book of Order stipulates the following:
G‐2.0905
Officiate by Invitation Only
After the dissolution of the pastoral relationship, former pastors and associate pastors shall
not provide their pastoral services to members of their former congregations without the
invitation of the moderator of session.
Additionally, the 210th General Assembly approved the document “Standards for Ethical
Conduct for Ordained Officers in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.),” which the Committee on Ministry
commends to all deacons and elders (ruling or teaching) for study. There is a version for all members of
a congregation, and another for paid and volunteer staff. In the Standards for Ordained Officers, items
14 through 17 apply to the relationship between congregations, former pastors, and current pastors:
I will conduct my ministry so that nothing need be hidden from a governing body or
colleagues in ministry. Therefore I will:
14. Deal honorably with the record of my predecessor and upon leaving a ministry or office
speak and act in ways that support the ministry of my successor;
15. Participate in the life of a ministry setting I left or from which I have retired only as
directed by presbytery;
16. Provide pastoral services for a congregation I previously served only as directed by the
presbytery and provide pastoral services to members of other congregations only with
the consent of their pastors; and
17. Consult with the Committee on Ministry in the presbytery of my residence regarding
my involvement in any ministry setting during my retirement.
When a former pastor is making an uninvited impact on the life and work of his or her former
congregation and its current pastor, it is the responsibility of the presbytery to intervene for the sake of
“promoting the peace and harmony of congregations and inquiring into the sources of congregational
discord.” (G-3.0301c) If the former pastor persists in this disapproved work, the presbytery may
administer discipline through the processes outlined in the Book of Order (G-2.0509) remembering that
discipline is “for building up the body of Christ, not for destroying it, for redeeming, not for punishing.”
(D-1.0102)
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 3/8
BOUNDARIES COVENANT
The Committee on Ministry recognizes that each congregation and pastor face different circumstances,
so some flexibility is required in order to encourage the health of the presbytery and the congregations
and teaching elders under its care. Therefore, the Committee requires that departing pastors and sessions
develop a Boundaries Covenant to order their lives after the relationship is dissolved. See a template for
this Boundaries Covenant which is attached. The Boundaries Covenant has some parts that are nonnegotiable and some that will be negotiated by the session and the departing pastor, with the advice and
approval of the Committee on Ministry. The Boundaries Covenant will be kept on file at the Presbytery
office and will be given to any temporary or installed pastors who serve the congregation after that point
for so long as it is relevant to the life and ministry of the congregation.
If a church leader takes on a substantive relationship with a particular congregation, the session may
develop a Boundaries Covenant with that church leader, to make clear the roles of church leader and
pastor in the life of the church. A template Boundaries Covenant for Church Leaders is attached.
If a church continues to depend on or engage with a former pastor or church leader acting in a manner
inconsistent with these standards, the Committee on Ministry will intervene for counsel, and may
consider the church not ready to call or maintain a pastoral relationship.
Non-Negotiable Elements
• Officiate by Invitation Only
The former pastor will not provide pastoral services to members of their former congregations except as
invited to do so by the current moderator of session. The moderator of session may withdraw an
invitation previously given by a past moderator or pre‐arranged in the Boundaries Covenant.
• Compensation Ceases
The former pastor shall not continue to receive compensation from the congregation, whether salary, use
of church property, or reimbursements except those negotiated as part of a severance agreement that has
been approved by the Committee on Ministry.
• No Relationship with the PNC
The former pastor shall not be involved in the call process for a new pastor in any way. This includes,
but is not limited to, influencing the election of a PNC, commenting on the mission study, or making
recommendations on particular candidates.
• Discourage Membership Transfers
If the former pastor has taken a new call near the former congregation, he or she will not attempt to
recruit members from the former congregation and will encourage any who inquire about moving their
membership to remain committed to their current congregation.
• Contribute to Positive Collegial Relationships
Whether a former pastor or an active church leader, several points in the Ethical Standards of Behavior
call for a leader to refrain from destructive gossip, to honor the sacred trust of relationships in the
church, and to be judicious in the exercise of power that he or she holds.
Negotiable Elements
• Period of Separation
It is recommended that former pastors and their family find a new church community, and to adhere to a
period of no contact of any kind with the congregation for a period of time after the call is dissolved.
This period lasts at least 1 year after a new pastoral relationship is established; it should be noted that it
can take over a year before a new pastor is called, so this period may last several years. In any case, the
former pastor is encouraged to consult with the moderator of session before reengaging with the
congregation in any way.
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 4/8
• Return for Pre‐Arranged Services
There may be an impending service that will take place after the date of dissolution for which the
former pastor was already planned to lead. Some individuals express their desire to have the former
pastor lead their memorial service. After the relationship is dissolved, the former pastor is expected to
gently decline any requests to lead. If there is a compelling reason for the former pastor to participate,
the former pastor should consult with the current moderator of session rather than send the church
member to ask the current pastor’s permission (as this places on the current pastor the burden of
seeming inhospitable).
• Community Relations
A pastor is often seen as a pastor to people beyond the membership of the congregation. This may take
on many forms, whether it is presiding at weddings and funerals of non‐members, participating in the
leadership of local ministries or providing counseling to members of the community at‐large. Factors
that should be considered in possibly allowing the former pastor to participate in community events
include the extent that these activities are connected to the ministry of the congregation, and how much
is it personal projects of the pastor. If the former pastor’s involvement is brought to a close, it is
recommended that the event coordinators be notified. The name of the church should be used only with
permission of the session, regardless of what individual—pastor or non-pastoral leader—is participating.
• Family of Former Pastor
Are any of the pastor’s family members also members of the congregation? This is a sensitive issue, but
family members of the former pastor may exert influence—or perpetuate ministry approaches of the
former pastor—more strongly, not having been trained in boundary ethics. It may be optimal for the
future relationships of the congregation for the family members to take a leave from the church for at
least a year after a new pastoral relationship has been established, and not to take a leadership position
unless the current pastor invites them to. The Presbytery leadership, and neighboring congregations, is
encouraged to actively offer support to the former pastor’s family as needed. If the family of the former
pastor continues to play a significant role in the leadership of the church, the Presbytery Committee on
Ministry may surmise that the congregation is not ready to call a new pastor.
• Friendships with Former Pastor
The former pastor may have friendships with certain members of the congregation that continue after
the pastoral relationship has been dissolved. This may cause some concern among congregation members,
as some will be invited to continue a relationship while others will not. The former pastor needs to take
the responsibility to limit any social interactions from straying into comments about the life of the church.
• Social Media
New forms of media have enabled new forms of ministry; they have also complicated separation ethics
as former pastors can more easily continue to provide pastoral services or guidance to members of their
congregations using electronic communications. Some questions to consider include:
— To what extent have blogs, social media, text/instant messages, email and other electronic means
been a part of the ministry of the former pastor?
— What needs to change to help the congregation turn away from their former pastor and towards their
new one? This may include “defriending” former church members on one’s Facebook page.
• Severance
When a pastor leaves a congregation there are some final compensation issues to be negotiated
including the use of accrued vacation time, the disposition of church property (laptop, books, cell
phone, vestments, etc.), and the use of a manse beyond the date of dissolution, etc. In the event that the
dissolution of the call was not initiated by the pastor, the Presbytery will often require an agreement that
includes the continuation of compensation for a defined period of time while the pastor seeks a new call.
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 5/8
• Reaffirmation of Leadership Responsibilities
Leadership roles of parish associates and other church leaders shall be dissolved when one pastor leaves,
but may be reaffirmed by the new moderator of session. If the new moderator does not reaffirm that
leadership role, church leaders are bound to respect the decision, or find another place to use their gifts.
COMMUNICATING THESE STANDARDS TO THE CONGREGATION
It is best if multiple parties explain these Standards for Ethical Behavior to the congregation, and the
Boundaries Covenant, so that the document can be fully understood and does not appear to come from
only one source. Upon notice that a pastoral relationship will be dissolved, the Presbytery will meet
with the session to talk about next steps and include the Boundaries Covenant as part of that discussion.
The session should share the contents of that discussion with the congregation at or before the meeting
to dissolve the pastoral relationship. It is also particularly important for the departing pastor or church
leader to speak in support of these ethics with the congregation and to publicly share the contents of the
Boundaries Covenant.
On the pastor’s last Sunday, the Committee on Ministry encourages the congregation to include a
liturgical dismissal of the pastor that acknowledges his or her service to the congregation and the agreed
upon separation ethics. Both the Book of Occasional Services and Saying Goodbye: A Time of Growth
for Congregations and Pastors by Edward A. White include some resources for that purpose. A
representative of the Presbytery is often present on the pastor’s last Sunday and will say a few words
about separation ethics at that time; if a representative is unable to attend, a letter to the congregation
may be sent instead.
It is important for the leaders of the church to understand the purposes for these standards of behavior,
as often the requests to bend these standards occur long after the former pastor has departed. Churches
that believe their culture does not allow for these standards might be reminded that concerns have been
raised by pastors in many such cultures.
In summary, some underlying reasons for complying with these standards include:

The continuing presence of the former pastor may impede the congregation’s ability to bond
with a new pastor, and to consider new ideas and ministries.

Continued requests from the former congregation fails to release the obligations of a pastor, and
prevents the former pastor from moving on to his or her next phase of ministry. If any requests
are accepted, the former pastor is put in the uncomfortable position of choosing which requests
are accepted and which ones are not.

Clinging to past relationships constrain the movement of the Holy Spirit to bring new
opportunities into the life of the church and the lives of the former and current pastors. Thus, the
continued dependence on a former pastor, or on specific church leaders with unusual influence,
may signal that a church is not yet ready to begin the next phase of ministry with a new pastor.

The Constitution of the PC(U.S.A.), and the Standards of Ethical Behavior, support the authority
of the current pastor, and find it unethical for others to challenge that authority based on personal
relationships or positions of perceived power.

The health of the Presbytery—and the collegial relationships between pastors and churches—is
encouraged by the maintenance of proper boundaries and clear leadership roles.
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 6/8
SAN GABRIEL PRESBYTERY
BOUNDARIES COVENANT FOR FORMER PASTORAL LEADERS
This covenant will order the future relationship between __________________ (hereafter referred to as
“the pastor”) and __________________ (hereafter referred to as “the church”) who both understand and
accept the terms of this covenant and commit themselves to abiding by them as a way of encouraging
the health and ministry of both the pastor and the congregation when the pastoral relationship is
dissolved as of __________________.
•
•
•
•
•
As of the date stated, the pastor and the congregation covenant together that
The pastor will cease all pastoral duties and will only perform pastoral services to the congregation at
the invitation of the current moderator of session;
The congregation will end compensation to the pastor except any negotiated severance;
The pastor will not attempt to influence the search for a new pastor or the future ministry of the church;
The pastor will not recruit members of the congregation to join him or her in his or her new call;
Any future contact between the pastor and members of the congregation will be as friends and not as
pastor and parishioner.
Period of Separation:
Return for Pre-Arranged Services:
Community Relations:
Family:
Friends:
Social Media:
Severance:
In signing, the parties indicate a commitment to abide by the above covenant and that they have
received, understand, and will abide by the Standards for Ethical Behavior of San Gabriel Presbytery.
Clerk of Session
Date
Departing Pastor
Date
Moderator of COM
Date
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 7/8
SAN GABRIEL PRESBYTERY
BOUNDARIES COVENANT FOR NON-PASTORAL LEADERS
This covenant will order the relationship between __________________ (hereafter referred to as “the
leader”) and __________________ (hereafter referred to as “the church”) who both understand and
accept the terms of this covenant and commit themselves to abiding by them as a way of encouraging
the health and ministry of both the pastor and the congregation. In this document “leader” or “church
leader” refers to an individual with unusual influence, due to education or current or former leadership
positions in the church.
•
•
•
•
•
As of the date stated below, the leader and the session covenant together that
The leader will play a leadership role with the church, under supervision of the pastor and session as
outlined below;
The leader will respect and support the authority of the pastor, as the pastor “seeks to honor and obey
Jesus Christ our Lord” (W-4.4006b(3));
The leader’s area of expertise is respected and received by the pastor and congregation;
If the pastor’s relationship with the congregation is dissolved, the church leader will cease all specific
ministry leadership roles, unless the current moderator of session invites the leader;
If the church leader is involved in visible leadership roles, the leader will utilize the name of the church
in community events with permission of the session.
Effective Dates: from
to
Leadership Role and Areas of Expertise:
Responsibilities:
Community Relations:
In signing, the parties indicate a commitment to abide by the above covenant and that they have
received, understand, and will abide by the separation ethics policy of San Gabriel Presbytery.
Clerk of Session
Date
Leader
Date
Moderator of Session
Date
1/12/15 approved by COM
Page 8/8
PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL REPORT OF THE PRESBYTERY COUNCIL January 24, 2015 1. Motion: Following the pastor’s announcement of his intention to retire, the Committee on Ministry Ministry Team chair met with the Session of First Presbyterian Church of Azusa and determined that the church does not have adequate leadership to make decisions regarding its mission, ministry, property and assets on behalf of the congregation. Therefore, the Presbytery Council recommends that a five‐member Administrative Commission be formed to assume original jurisdiction of the session of First Presbyterian Church, Azusa. This AC may include members of the current church Session. (Members of the AC will be named at the Presbytery meeting.) 2. Motion: Whereas, extensive negotiations and meetings for Gracious Dismissal between the Presbytery Engagement Team and the Special Committee of the Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, Rowland Heights and other leaders of the congregation have resulted in a deadlock, the Presbytery Council recommends that an Administrative Commission be established for Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church. (Members of the AC will be named at the Presbytery meeting. Note that “full authority of the session” is also known as “original jurisdiction of the session.”) This Administrative Commission is authorized to: ‐ Conduct an administrative review of the session and its responsible management of the church’s worship and congregational life as a community of faith, hope, love and witness and the management of the physical property of the congregation for the furtherance of its mission. ‐ Assume full authority of the session. ‐ Determine the application of the Presbytery’s Gracious Dismissal Policy on behalf of both the church and the Presbytery, bringing a recommendation to the full Presbytery. ‐ Determine as the Presbytery whether there is a schism within the membership of the congregation and whether the Presbytery is unable to effect a reconciliation of a division into separate congregations within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and determine as the Presbytery if one faction is entitled to the property because it is identified by the Presbytery as the true church within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). See attached report for background information. 3. Motion if the AC for the KGSPC is approved: the Council recommends that the Presbytery Engagement Team appointed to work with Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church be dismissed with gratitude effective January 24, 2015. 4. For Information: The Council received the following resolution from the Session of the Eagle Rock Presbyterian Church: “As stewards of financial resources of this church, (they) will be making no further contributions to the presbytery, synod, or the General Assembly of the PC(U.S.A.) until such time as the General Assembly reverses course on its approval of same‐sex marriage. We are directing all financial support (per capita and mission) to ministries that align with our convictions until such a time that the General Assembly repents of its action and returns to God’s natural design for human sexuality as revealed at Creation, affirmed by Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit.” The Chair of the COM Ministry Team and Interim Executive Presbyter were invited to meet with the Session to hear their concerns in person, and to seek ways to continue doing ministry together in spite of the dispute over the GA’s action, including supporting mission projects such as Living Waters that have no connection with this issue. Report to San Gabriel Presbytery on Gracious Dismissal Process
with Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church
January 24, 2015
Summary
Over two years ago, leaders from Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church (KGSPC) expressed a
desire to engage in the process outlined in the Gracious Dismissal Policy of the Presbytery of San Gabriel.
According to the policy, a Presbytery Engagement Team (PET) was formed to work with the Special
Committee of the Congregation (SCC) that was appointed by the Session of Good Shepherd. These two
groups have worked diligently to come to an agreement that meets the mission priorities of the church
and complies with the Gracious Dismissal Policy and the polity of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
The process has been even more complex than other potential dismissal negotiations, for several reasons.
First, the process was delayed by a remedial case involving two other churches that were being
dismissed. Second, this was the first time in this Presbytery when a dismissal was considered with a
church that had in its membership a cohesive group of church leaders who are contesting the effort to
leave the PC(USA). Finally, during the time these negotiations have been underway, the General
Assembly Permanent Judicial Commission made decisions related to dismissals which carry the weight
of the Constitution and require immediate compliance. These decisions required changes to the
Presbytery’s Gracious Dismissal Policy, including among other things even greater consideration to the
potential use of the property by members remaining with the PC(USA).
After years of diligent negotiations by all parties, the Presbytery Engagement Team has reported to the
Presbytery Council that they have exhausted all options available to them as outlined in the Gracious
Dismissal Policy, and have not been able to find a resolution that is acceptable by them as representatives
of the Presbytery, the church negotiating team seeking dismissal for the church, and the church members
wishing to remain with the PC(USA).
Further, PET members have witnessed a very high level of conflict, especially in the last month, and
continue to receive complaints from members of both groups in the church that members of the opposing
group are acting in bad faith, attempting to manipulate the process, or not being truthful in their
statements to the PET. The PET is not in the position to determine the relative veracity of the claims by
either group. This escalating conflict has impacted the worship life of the congregation, with
intimidating words and actions observed within and around Sunday worship services. Therefore, the
PET has recommended to the Council, and the Council recommends to the Presbytery, that an
Administrative Commission be formed to find resolution to this situation.
Some History
In their report to the Council, the PET gave this synopsis of their work with Good Shepherd:
Even before a PET was formed for this congregation in 2012, a group from KGSPC let the Executive
Presbyter and Committee on Ministry know that there were members of the church who did not wish
to leave the PCUSA. The engagement process with this church began in 2012, but was put on hold
while the remedial case involving the dismissal of the Glenkirk and Covina churches was resolved. In
October of 2013, a new PET was formed. Over the past 15 months this PET has:
-- Met with the SCC to see if there could be a reconciliation between the Pastors and members of the
Session and congregation petitioning to leaving the PCUSA and the Presbytery of San Gabriel. The
SCC and PET concluded that this was not possible.
Page 1 of 2
-- Met with members of the group who wish to stay with the PCUSA.
-- Reached an initial settlement with the SCC which was acceptable to the majority of the
congregation, but not acceptable to the group wishing to remain with the PCUSA.
-- Held two meetings with members of the SCC and Stay group together seeking to bring about a
reconciliation between those two groups that would enable negotiating a settlement acceptable to
all. This was not successful.
-- Requested that the Stay Group submit a proposed budget and ministry plan in order to gauge their
capacity to use the Good Shepherd property for PCUSA ministry in that community. The results
are inconclusive due to the difficulty of ascertaining how many members would remain with the
PCUSA in the event of a congregational split.
-- Received frequent notices of concern from both groups that members of the other group were
acting in bad faith, attempting to unfairly manipulate the process, or being untruthful in their
statements to the congregation or the PET.
Given this history, the PET has come to the conclusion that we are not able to accomplish our task
according to the San Gabriel Presbytery Gracious Dismissal Policy which is to attempt reconciliation
and, if that is not possible, to negotiate a settlement for dismissal which is agreeable to all parties
concerned. The level of conflict within the congregation is too high for us to negotiate a settlement
that will be acceptable to both the Exit Group, the Stay Group and the Presbytery. We believe that the
situation as it now stands at KGSPC of Rowland Heights is beyond what the Gracious Dismissal
Policy was designed to resolve.
Council Recommendation
At its meeting on January 13, 2015, the Council of San Gabriel Presbytery voted to make the following
recommendation to the Presbytery. Note that “full authority of the session” is also known as “original
jurisdiction of the session.”
Whereas extensive negotiations and meetings with representatives of the session and other leaders of the
congregation has resulted in a deadlock on dismissal negotiations and a high level of conflict within the
congregation including public statements of intimidation during worship, the Presbytery Council has
concluded under G-3.0303e that the session of Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church of Rowland
Heights is unable or unwilling to manage wisely its affairs and so recommends to the Presbytery that an
Administrative Commission be established for Korean Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church of Rowland
Heights. This Administrative Commission is authorized to:
● conduct an administrative review of the session and its responsible management of the church's
worship and congregational life as a community of faith, hope, love, and witness, and the
management of the physical property of the congregation for the furtherance of its mission
● assume full authority of the session
● determine the application of the Presbytery’s Gracious Dismissal Policy on behalf of both the
church and the Presbytery, bringing a recommendation to the full Presbytery
● determine as the Presbytery whether there is a schism within the membership of the congregation
and whether the Presbytery is unable to effect a reconciliation or a division into separate
congregations within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and determine as the Presbytery if one of
the factions is entitled to the property because it is identified by the Presbytery as the true church
within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
Page 2 of 2
BYLAWS OF THE PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL
Synod of Southern California and Hawaii
(Revised [date])
CHAPTER I — GENERAL
1.10
DEFINITION
The Presbytery of San Gabriel (“the Presbytery”), organized on January 4, 1968, at 7:30 p.m., is the
organizational unit and the seat of original authority of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) realized by the
convocation of all Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders representing churches and ministries within the
geographical bounds as established by the Presbytery and approved by the Synod and the General
Assembly. (For details see the Presbytery Manual of Operations.)
1.20
GOVERNMENT
The Presbytery is governed primarily by the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and
secondarily by these Bylaws and by any Standing Rules and Manuals of Administrative Operations, as
may be adopted from time to time.
1.30
FUNCTIONS
The functions of the Presbytery are contained in the Book of Order, section G-3.03.
CHAPTER II — MEMBERSHIP AND MEETINGS
2.10
MEMBERSHIP
The members of the Presbytery shall be all Teaching Elders duly enrolled, Ruling Elder Commissioners
elected from each of the particular churches within the bounds of the Presbytery, and the Ruling Elders
who are committee chairs or members-at-large elected to Presbytery Executive Commission (“Executive
Commission”). These Ruling Elders shall be enrolled upon their election. Ruling Elder Commissioners
elected by the particular churches shall be enrolled as members of the Presbytery upon filing with the
Stated Clerk a certification of election by registering.
2.20
CALENDAR
There shall be a minimum of four stated meetings of Presbytery each year, at least one of which shall be
held on a Saturday. The dates of these meetings shall be determined by the Executive Commission.
2.21
TIME AND PLACE
All stated meetings shall be held at hours and in churches or places determined by the Executive
Commission. The place of a special meeting shall be designated in the call.
2.22
QUORUM
A quorum shall be any five Teaching Elder members and five Ruling Elder members present, provided
that at least five churches are represented.
2.30
TELEPHONE, VIDEO CONFERENCE AND ELECTRONIC ACTIONS AND MEETINGS
2.31
Action without Meeting
Unless otherwise restricted by these bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any
meeting of the Board of Trustees or a Commission of the Presbytery may be taken without a
meeting if all members of the Board of Trustees or Commission consent thereto in writing or by
electronic transmission, and the writings or electronic transmissions are recorded in the
minutes of the proceedings.
2.32
Participation
Members of the Board of Trustees or a Commission of the Presbytery may participate in any of
their meetings by means of telephone, video conference, or other communication equipment,
provided all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other or read their comments in
real time. Participation in a meeting pursuant to this subsection shall constitute the presence of
such person at the meeting. All such meetings shall be conducted in accordance with Roberts
Rules of Order.
2.40
SPECIAL MEETINGS
A special meeting is a separate meeting of the Presbytery held at a different time from that of a stated
meeting, and is convened to consider only one or more specific items of business. Notice of a special
meeting shall be sent not fewer than ten days in advance to each Teaching Elder and each church
Council, describing the purpose of the meeting. The Presbytery Moderator shall call a special meeting at
the request of or with the concurrence of five Teaching Elders and five Ruling Elders provided that at
least five churches are represented. Should the Moderator be unable to act, the Stated Clerk shall, under
the same conditions, issue the call for the special meeting. The Synod may direct the Presbytery to
convene a special meeting for the transaction of designated business.
2.50
WORSHIP
Each stated meeting shall include a brief period of worship. The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper shall be
observed at least once a year.
2.60
MILEAGE EXPENSES
Upon request, the Presbytery shall provide for the expenses incurred by its members in attending
meetings of Presbytery, the Board of Trustees, or any Commission, Committee, or Task Force by
granting mileage allowances based on specific recommendations by the Administration and Finance
Committee.
2.70
MINUTES
Minutes of each stated meeting shall be recorded by the Stated Clerk, who shall send copies to the
members of Presbytery in a timely manner after adjournment, with formal approval given at the
succeeding meeting of Presbytery.
CHAPTER III — OFFICERS AND STAFF
3.10
TITLES
The principal officers of Presbytery shall be Moderator, Vice-Moderator, and Stated Clerk.
-- 2 --
3.20
MODE OF ELECTION, TERMS, DUTIES
3.21
VICE-MODERATOR / MODERATOR ELECT
The Vice-Moderator shall be nominated by the Representation and Nominations Committee and elected
at the last meeting of each calendar year for a three-year cycle. In the first year, the Vice-Moderator
shall perform the functions of the Moderator of Presbytery when requested by that officer, or in the
inability of the Moderator to serve. In the second year, he or she shall become Moderator of Presbytery.
The Moderator of Presbytery shall have those duties described in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Book
of Order section G-3.0104. In the third year he or she shall serve as chairperson of the Executive
Commission. Should the Moderator and Vice-Moderator be unable to serve, the last previous Moderator
who is present and able to serve shall function as Moderator.
3.22
STATED CLERK
The Stated Clerk shall be elected at the May meeting from nominations made by the Personnel
Committee. The term shall be for three years and the duties shall be as defined in the Book of Order.
3.23
VACANCIES
An officer may resign at any time by giving thirty days notice to the Stated Clerk, except that the Stated
Clerk shall resign by notifying the Moderator and the chairperson of the Personnel Committee. Any
vacancy so created, or created by death, permanent disability, disqualification, or any other cause, shall
be filled by regular election procedures. From the nominations of the Personnel Committee the
Executive Commission shall have the authority to make temporary appointments to the office of Stated
Clerk or Executive Presbyter in the event that office should be vacated between meetings of Presbytery.
Such appointments are subject to approval by Presbytery, and Presbytery shall in regular manner elect a
Stated Clerk at its earliest convenience.
CHAPTER IV — ORGANIZATION
4.10
4.20
ORGANIZATION
A.
Executive Commission (described in Chapter V)
B.
Commission on Ministry
C.
Commission on Preparation for Ministry
D.
Permanent Judicial Commission
E.
Administration and Finance Committee / Board of Trustees
F.
Education Committee
G.
Justice, Peacemaking and Mission Committee
H.
Personnel Committee
I.
Representation and Nominations Committee
J.
Self-Development of People Committee
K.
Vision and Strategy Committee
STANDING COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES
Presbytery and the Executive Commission have sole authority for the establishment or permanent
dissolution of standing committees and commissions.
-- 3 --
As needed, the Presbytery may form Commissions, Committees, and Task Forces in accordance with the
Book of Order, these Bylaws, the Standing Rules, and the Manual of Operations.
4.30
4.40
ELECTION AND TERMS OF SERVICE
4.31
Members of all standing commissions and committees shall be elected by Presbytery to serve
for terms as prescribed in these Bylaws, the Standing Rules, or the requirements of the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Except for the Permanent Judicial Commission, members
should be elected for terms of three years, and each commission or committee should be
divided into three approximately equally-sized classes, one class to be elected each year, unless
Presbytery or the Executive Commission directs otherwise.
4.32
The Representation and Nominations Committee will propose candidates to the Presbytery for
election. Nominations from the floor shall be allowed as long as the candidate has given
consent to be nominated, and eligibility is determined.
4.33
The Permanent Judicial Commission shall be elected in compliance with the Book of Order (D5.0101).
4.34
Terms of office shall begin in January 1 following election, or immediately upon election to fill
unexpired terms.
4.35
Organization of standing commissions and committees will be flexible in order to meet the
current mission needs of the Presbytery. However, all commissions and committees shall be
composed with the goal of reflecting the diversity of the Presbytery, and balanced between
Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders, and women and men. This diversity goal also includes
race, age, gender, and physical condition, and should seek the broadest participation of all
member churches.
4.36
No member shall serve in any single capacity for consecutive terms, either full or partial,
aggregating more than six years and, having served, any such member shall be ineligible for
another term until one year has expired.
4.37
A member of Presbytery should serve on only one standing commission or committee at a
time, with the exception of the Executive Commission.
4.38
Vacancies occurring by death, resignation, or other cause may be filled by election by
Presbytery or Executive Commission immediately, or at the end of the term. Any committee or
commission member desiring to resign shall send a letter of resignation to the Stated Clerk
and a copy to the chair of the Representation and Nominations Committee. When a member
has been absent without excuse from three consecutive meetings of the Executive Commission,
standing commissions or committees, Presbytery or the Executive Commission may declare
the position vacant and elect another person to fill the unexpired term.
4.39
Standing commissions and committees may appoint to themselves advisory members; these
have voice but not vote. The number of advisory members shall not exceed half the number of
elected members, and shall not diminish the diversity or balance of the elected membership.
STANDING COMMISSIONS
Composition and quorum for commissions shall comply with the Book of Order. Commissions shall be
composed of Ruling Elders and Teaching Elders in numbers as nearly equal as possible and sufficient to
accomplish their work. A quorum of any commission shall be a majority of its members unless stated
otherwise upon establishment of the commission.
-- 4 --
4.41
Commission on Ministry
Coordinates Presbytery responsibility as pastor, counselor, and advisor to Teaching Elders and
congregations—especially by supporting and guiding churches through pastoral transitions;
provides pastoral care for Teaching Elders and church Councils; mediates in conflicted
situations between pastors and congregations; and promotes healthy relationships between
pastors and congregations.
4.42
Commission on Preparation for Ministry
Cares for and oversees the process of discernment and preparation for inquirers and candidates
for ordination to the office of Teaching Elder
4.43
Permanent Judicial Commission
Fulfills the requirements of the Rules of Discipline in the Constitution of the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A.).
4.50
STANDING COMMITTEES
Details on each committee are included in the Standing Rules of the Presbytery.
4.51
Administration and Finance
Functions as the Board of Trustees of the Presbytery and oversees care of corporate
responsibilities and fiduciary health of the Presbytery. Advises local churches on property and
finance matters, and reviews and recommends proposals for the sale, leasing, or encumbrance
of church property.
4.52
Education Committee
Facilitates education ministries among member churches of the Presbytery, including Christian
education for all ages and for particular age groups including preschools. Coordinates education
and training opportunities for Presbytery meetings and events.
4.53
Justice, Peacemaking and Mission Committee
Discerns and coordinates mission priorities for the Presbytery beyond local church ministries,
and provides education and service opportunities for Presbytery members.
4.54
Personnel Committee
Oversees and reviews Presbytery staff, implements Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity
Employment policies, and guides local churches with regard to their personnel matters.
4.55
Representation and Nominations Committee
Advocates for and promotes full representation of the rich diversity of the Presbytery in
leadership by identifying and resourcing potential leaders; reviews and reports on Presbytery
performance on representation and inclusive practices; identifies, invites and nominates
candidates for leadership in the wider church.
4.56
Vision and Strategy Committee
Reviews the responsibility for mission within the geographic bounds of the Presbytery.
Identifies and/or guides and nurtures new worshiping communities that help to further the
mission of the Presbytery. Reviews proposals for grants and new ministries submitted to the
Presbytery.
Membership includes but is not limited to at-large members of the Executive Commission.
-- 5 --
CHAPTER V — EXECUTIVE COMMISSION
5.10
5.20
MEMBERS
5.11
The Executive Commission shall consist of a minimum of 14 members: the immediate past
Moderator of Presbytery as chair; the incumbent Moderator and Vice-Moderator of
Presbytery; representatives from the Representation and Nominations Committee, the
Commission on Ministry, the Commission on Preparation for Ministry, Administration and
Finance, Personnel, Education, Mission, and Strategy and Vision. The Commission shall also
consist of a minimum of three at-large positions that serve as representatives of the Presbytery
(each elected for a 3-year term), nominated by the Representation and Nominations
Committee and elected by the Presbytery.
5.12
The Executive Presbyter and the Stated Clerk shall be ex-officio members of Executive
Commission without vote.
RESPONSIBILITIES, POWER, AND AUTHORITY
5.21
5.22
The Executive Commission shall have all the responsibilities, power and authority of
Presbytery with the exception of:
A.
Dismissing congregations to other Reformed denominations.
B.
Examinations of Candidates for ordination, or members of other denominations
seeking ordination or to be Teaching Elders in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
C.
Establishing administrative commissions of the Presbytery, or making any changes to
the charge of an administrative commission, other than ordination or installation
commissions.
D.
Approval and amendment of the Standing Rules.
The Executive Commission shall:
A.
Set Presbytery meeting agendas.
B.
In partnership with the Administration and Finance Committee, approve the annual
budget for recommendation to the Presbytery.
C.
Oversee distribution of special funds available for mission and ministry.
D.
Oversee mission, program, and other activities of Presbytery in consultation with the
Executive Presbyter and Stated Clerk.
E.
Identify ministry needs and opportunities in need of a Ministry Task Force (a short or
long term interest group, vetted by the Executive Commission, gathered around a
specific project or an identified ministry priority for the Presbytery). These Task
Forces will present annual reports to the Executive Commission.
F.
Make nominations to the Representation and Nominations Committee to be elected by
the Presbytery.
G.
Appoint a temporary Executive Presbyter or Stated Clerk when necessary as provided
in Section 3.23.
-- 6 --
5.30
H.
Enroll and dismiss Teaching Elders upon recommendation of the Commission on
Ministry during the period between presbytery meetings, and shall report the action at
the next meeting of the Presbytery. The Executive Commission shall be empowered by
Presbytery to grant dismissal of candidates under care to another presbytery when
recommended by the Commission on Preparation for the Ministry during the period
between presbytery meetings, and shall report the dismissal(s) at the next meeting of
presbytery.
I.
Receive annual reports from related organizations and agencies of the Presbytery.
MEETINGS
The Executive Commission should meet regularly at least two weeks prior to each stated meeting of
Presbytery, or upon call of the Chairperson or any two members of Executive Commission.
CHAPTER VI — THE CORPORATION
6.10
FORMATION AND DUTIES
6.11
6.20
A.
Receive, hold, encumber, manage, and transfer such property as may come under its
jurisdiction;
B.
Manage its corporate affairs as Presbytery may direct.
CIVIL CORPORATION
6.21
6.30
The Presbytery shall form a corporation or corporations under the laws of the State of
California to enable it to:
Members of the Corporation shall be Teaching Elder members and Ruling Elder
commissioners present at a stated presbytery meeting.
A.
The Presbytery of San Gabriel exists under the California Non-Profit Public Benefit
Corporation Law for religious and charitable purposes.
B.
The principal office for the transaction of the business of the Corporation will be
located in Los Angeles County, California.
C.
The general powers of the corporation shall be those normally ascribed to such
corporations, and shall be subject to the provision of the California Non-Profit
Corporation Law and any limitation noted in these bylaws.
D.
The Trustees of the Corporation shall be the members of the Administration and
Finance Committee.
E.
The officers of the Civil Corporation shall be: (1) a President; (2) a Vice-President; (3)
a Secretary; and (4) a Treasurer. These officers shall be elected by the Administration
and Finance Committee from its membership.
F.
The Annual Meeting of the Corporation shall be held in connection with the first stated
meeting of the Presbytery held in each calendar year.
G.
The Corporation shall indemnify any agent of the corporation against any liability
asserted against or incurred by the agent in such capacity and arising out of the agent’s
status as such, as may be allowed by the California Non-Profit Corporation Law and
any future amendments to it.
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
A copy of the Articles of Incorporation of Presbytery is annexed to these Bylaws as Exhibit A.
-- 7 --
6.40
FISCAL YEAR
The fiscal year of the Presbytery shall be the calendar year.
CHAPTER VII — RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
7.10
REPORTS OF RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
Related organizations and agencies of the Presbytery, shall report annually to the Executive
Commission or through their related commission or committee. These reports should include activities
and a financial report.
CHAPTER VIII — GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMISSIONERS
8.10
TIME OF ELECTION
Commissioners to General Assembly shall be elected no later than the first stated meeting of the year in
which General Assembly is meeting.
8.20
8.30
NOMINATION AND ELECTION OF COMMISSIONERS
8.21
The Stated Clerk shall maintain and make available to the Representation and Nominations
Committee at least 90 days before the nomination of Teaching Elder commissioners, a list of
the continuing members of Presbytery in order of longest service since last attendance at
General Assembly as a commissioner, or the date of their beginning ordained ministry in the
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The participation of a nominated Teaching Elder in Presbytery
shall be noted.
8.22
In making nominations, the Representation and Nominations Committee shall consider Ruling
Elders from churches in order of the longest time since their last representation at General
Assembly, or, if they have not been represented, since their organization. The participation of a
nominated Ruling Elder in Presbytery shall be noted.
8.23
The Representation and Nominations Committee shall present to Presbytery a full slate of
nominees. An opportunity for nominations from the floor shall always be given. From those
nominated, Presbytery shall vote for the number Presbytery is entitled to send to General
Assembly. The nominees receiving the largest number of votes shall be declared elected.
ALTERNATES
Nominees receiving the highest number of votes next after the elected commissioners shall be deemed
elected as alternates. If any commissioner cannot attend General Assembly, that commissioner shall at
the earliest day possible return the commission for an alternate, observing the order of the highest
number of votes received, until one is reached who can attend.
8.40
ELIGIBILITY
Any Teaching Elder or Ruling Elder within Presbytery shall be eligible for this election except that a
commissioner shall be ineligible for election to two sequential General Assemblies.
8.50
BALLOTING
Election shall be by written ballot taken separately for Teaching Elder commissioners and Ruling Elder
commissioners.
-- 8 --
8.60
YOUNG ADULT ADVISORY DELEGATES
Young Adult Advisory Delegates to General Assembly and their alternates shall be elected in the same
manner prescribed for commissioners in sections 8.10 through 8.50 above, and shall be members of
congregations within this Presbytery.
8.70
THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY ADVISORY DELEGATE
These delegates are nominated by seminaries and elected by the Presbytery.
CHAPTER IX — SYNOD COMMISSIONERS
9.10
NOMINATION AND ELECTION
The number of commissioners to be elected shall be determined in accordance with Synod rules for
representation.
An equal number of Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders shall be elected by Presbytery as commissioners
to Synod, to serve for one year. Elected Commissioners are eligible to be re-elected twice (thus serving
a total of three (3) years).
9.20
ALTERNATES
All enrolled Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders shall be elected as alternates. Vacancies can be filled by
the Moderator of Presbytery in consultation with the Stated Clerk or Executive Presbyter.
CHAPTER X — AMENDMENT AND SUSPENSION
10.10 AMENDMENTS
Amendments to these Bylaws may be made by two-thirds vote of members present at any stated
meeting provided that written notices of the proposed change shall have been made at the previous
stated meeting.
10.20 SUSPENSION
These Bylaws may be suspended by a two-thirds vote of the members present at a stated meeting. This
vote is applicable to only the current meeting.
-- 9 --
2014 YEAR-END FINANCIAL REPORT, PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL
PRESENTED BY
THE PRESBYTERY ADMINSTRATION AND FINANCE COMMITTEE
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CONGREGATIONS OF
SAN GABRIEL PRESBYTERY…..GIVE YOURSELVES
A “BIG PAT-ON-THE-BACK”!!
The “encouraging” 2014 Statistics:

36 of 40 active congregations in the Presbytery contributed to “Shared Mission”—plus
two individuals
o (Remember….Shared mission is composed of the “per-capita” assessed by the
Synod and the General Assembly and a proportionate share of the mission costs
of the Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly)

Of the 36 congregations contributing to Shared Mission, 19 of them contributed at or
above the amount of their annual pledge
o (several congregations in that group contributed SIGNIFICANTLY above their
pledged amount!)

An additional 17 churches, although not pledging, contributed at or above the level of
their 2013 contribution.
o (9 congregations in that group contributed SIGNIFICANTLY more than they did in
the previous year.)

Of the 36 congregations contributing, 26 gave over 90% of their apportionment.
o (8 congregations in that group exceeded their apportionment by at least 50%.)

The total Shared Giving receipts of $434,656 was $19,656 above the budgeted
projection of $415,000.

NOTE: All major expense items that are under the direct control of the Presbytery are at
or under the budgeted amount for 2014, as well.
THANK YOU ALL……………..
AND LET’S KEEP UP THIS GREAT WORK AS WE MOVE AHEAD INTO 2015!
Please give your 2015 pledge by February 16.
Prepared from the year‐end financial reports by the A and F committee: 1.20.2015 9:54 AM
01/21/15
Cash Basis
Presbytery of San Gabriel
Preliminary Rev & Exp Budget vs Actual - Summary
January through December 2014
Jan - Dec 14
Budget
$ Over Budget
Ordinary Income/Expense
Income
4000 · General Mission
4310 · General Assembly Grants
4320 · Synod Grants
4350 · Shared Grants
434,656.08 475,000.00
0.00
16,667.00
1,634.96
4400 · Extra Committment Giving
46,250.98
4600 · Investment Income
16,358.05
4610 · Interest
1,259.59
4800 · Special Offerings
47,862.73
4900 · Other Income/Special Offerings
11,189.78
Total Income
-40,343.92
575,879.17 475,000.00
100,879.17
Expense
5000 · Synod & GA Mission Remittance
67,300.00
5040 · Special Offerings Remittance
46,753.92
5050 · Other Giving
17,567.00
5200 · Per Capita Expense
61,664.20
5400 · Extra Commitment Giving
37,659.22
68,300.53
-1,000.53
61,664.20
0.00
5800 · Education
0.00
3,100.00
-3,100.00
5900 · Interpretation of Stewardship
0.00
100.00
-100.00
6000 · Committee on Ministry
6100 · Mission
6200 · Personnel
6300 · Preparation for Ministry
6400 · Church Development
6500 · Administration & Finance
6600 · Worship
6700 · Other Expenses
Total Expense
Net Ordinary Income
2,558.13
2,700.00
-141.87
18,392.53
19,000.00
-607.47
212,120.84 240,000.00
-27,879.16
930.00
4,600.00
-3,670.00
0.00
2,800.00
-2,800.00
57,103.92
60,025.00
-2,921.08
0.00
150.00
-150.00
896.70
10,200.00
-9,303.30
522,946.46 472,639.73
50,306.73
52,932.71
2,360.27
50,572.44
2,360.27
46,338.50
Other Income/Expense
Other Income
Gracious Dismissal Funds
Total Other Income
149,060.00
149,060.00
Other Expense
8100 · Loss on Sale of Asset
Total Other Expense
Net Other Income
Net Income
153,293.94
153,293.94
-4,233.94
48,698.77
Page 1 of 1
Presbytery of San Gabriel
Preliminary Balance Sheet Prev Year Comparison-Summary
Dec 31, 14
Dec 31, 13
$ Change
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings
1000 · Petty Cash
300.00
300.00
0.00
1017 · Cash in Bank - Highland Park
27,958.75
27,958.75
0.00
1024 · American West Checking
61,840.12
44,920.78
16,919.34
108,013.38
192,025.14
-84,011.76
98,024.78
0.00
98,024.78
388,973.34
372,615.29
16,358.05
1026 · American West Savings Account
1027 · American West Money Market
1100 · New Covenant Funds
1180 · AIG Financial Advis.#7J4-030864
Total Checking/Savings
2,130,220.63
745,947.43 1,384,273.20
2,815,331.00 1,383,767.39 1,431,563.61
Other Current Assets
1210 · Accounts Receivable
1300 · Prepaid Expenses
6,889.43
1,500.00
5,389.43
12,144.54
6,496.86
5,647.68
1350 · Prepaid Mission
1,127.74
563.88
563.86
Total Other Current Assets
20,161.71
8,560.74
11,600.97
Total Current Assets
2,835,492.71 1,392,328.13 1,443,164.58
Fixed Assets
1500 · Long Term Assets
Total Fixed Assets
505,123.78
505,123.78
0.00
505,123.78
505,123.78
0.00
-8,935.00
201,275.94
-210,210.94
0.00
9,000.00
-9,000.00
-8,935.00
210,275.94
-219,210.94
Other Assets
1840 · EP Housing - Shared Equity
1841 · Receivable - Synod
Total Other Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
3,331,681.49 2,107,727.85 1,223,953.64
LIABILITIES & EQUITY
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Other Current Liabilities
2010 · Accounts Payable
505.52
2021 · FICA/Medicare Payable
764.99
0.00
764.99
0.00
500.00
-500.00
1,270.51
1,005.52
264.99
1,270.51
1,005.52
264.99
1,270.51
1,005.52
264.99
2050 · In/Out Account
Total Other Current Liabilities
Total Current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
505.52
0.00
Presbytery of San Gabriel
Preliminary Balance Sheet Prev Year Comparison-Summary
Dec 31, 14
Dec 31, 13
$ Change
Equity
2605 · Held for Grace Presbyterian Chu
587,361.00
0.00
587,361.00
3200 · Restricted Reserves
365,439.42
394,106.42
-28,667.00
3300 · Mission Development Funds
648,153.13
19,204.98
628,948.15
33,226.26
40,321.03
-7,094.77
3450 · Congregation Vitalization Funds
126,522.38
126,522.38
0.00
3458 · Congregation Transf & Revital
291,796.82
291,796.82
0.00
1,200,437.37 1,205,994.87
-5,557.50
3400 · Designated Reserves
3500 · Unrestricted Fund Balances
3900 · Retained Earnings
28,775.83
-180,479.35
209,255.18
Net Income
48,698.77
209,255.18
-160,556.41
Total Equity
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY
3,330,410.98 2,106,722.33 1,223,688.65
3,331,681.49 2,107,727.85 1,223,953.64
Presbytery of San Gabriel
CPM Ministry Team Report
January 24, 2015
The CPM Ministry Team met on Tuesday, December 2, 2014 at Knox Presbyterian Church,
Pasadena at which time a quorum was present.
For Information:

The team met with Inquirer Andrew Sloan for an annual consultation and recommends
continuation in the process. Reports to the individual and sponsoring session have
been provided as appropriate. Andrew is a member of Community Presbyterian
Church, San Marino.