Click here for the audio (Mp3) of our July 21, 2015 “Conversation with Carmen” conference call
If you want to download the file, right-click on the link above.
Here was the pre-call description of what was going to be discussed:
The conversation will begin with a analysis of the Presbyterian responses to the same sex marriage ruling of the Supreme Court. The challenges and potential threats to churches will be discussed and direction will be given about recommended resources church leaders should be using.
Second, Carmen will address the recent transitions in the leadership of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Mission Agency. That conversation will address theresignation of Executive Director Linda Valentine and the appointment of two internal executives to fill the voids left by Valentine and Dermody, Hoey and Lopsteich whose ministries have been consolidatedunder Chip Hardwick. Discussion will include the response of the Presbyterian Mission Agency Board to the two defamation lawsuits filed by Reverends Dermody and Hoey.
Carmen will share a new congregational resource designed for use by Sessions entering discernment and she will encourage the use of a growing video library on Layman.org.
Looking at broad culture issues and their Presbyterian intersections, Carmen will offer insights into the candidacy of the only Presbyterian currently running for President, Donald Trump. Finally, she will raise questions about why the PCUSA has not responded to the video exposing the grotesque practices of Planned Parenthood, which the denomination supports through its alignment with the ecumenical Religious Coalition for Reproductive Rights.
4 Comments. Leave new
How can I get my session to get off their rumps and com to the congregation with a decision to get out of the PCUSA. It is obvious that PCUSA is a lost cause. Our Presbytery voted to support gay marriage and PCUSA supports abortion through its insurance policies. Will this insanity never end? We have been in purgatory for over three years over this unholy alliance between liberals and those who simply do not care about these issues.
Perhaps, if you and your session do not see eye to eye on these issues, it’s time to part ways?
or – heaven forbid – you might listen to what others in the congregation and leadership of the congregation are hearing from the Spirit about marriage. If you want a club of the like-minded there Ken, you should probably take McCrackn’s advice and just move on yourself.
I would suggest you write a letter to session and state your concerns about the PCUSA. There are resources and details about what has happened at GA and over the years that prove a move away from orthodoxy. Your voice is important. Encourage others to write letters.
Include a specific request that the Session respond back to you in writing about their position on matters in the PCUSA.
At the very least, expect your pastor to preach sound doctrine from the pulpit.
Gather as many people who are also concerned about the direction of the PCUSA and encourage them to PRAY DAILY for a response by your pastor and session. PRAY for direction from God for yourself.
If you feel there is a spiritual battle going on in your congregation, seek out the wisest spiritual Godly person who knows Scripture and keep connected to that person.
Keep your eyes open for evangelical meetings of ECO in case
the events of the next GA are more of the same disappointing amendments
toward political correctness rather than obedience to Scripture.
This may be a sign to you to seek a new place.
I will be praying for you to have wisdom and courage to speak and act
in your congregation as the Holy Spirit moves.