Wednesday, February 15
The Presbytery of the Pines
Arkansas, Louisiana
In 2001, the Presbytery of the Pines adopted a resolution to use funds received from the sale of some church properties to provide resources to congregations committed to continuing and redeveloping their ministries. Since its creation, the Phoenix Fund has granted over $300,000 to 21 member churches, thus inspiring new vision and energy.
In 2010, the presbytery celebrated with two particular congregations receiving Phoenix Fund grants — First Presbyterian Church of Natchitoches, Louisiana, and First Presbyterian Church of Clerk Donna Rose wrote about First Natchitoches' commemoration: "Our church was built on a vision of hope and love that will be rededicated.'' Since 1910, First Church has remained a visible sign of the Reformed faith and tradition to Northwestern State University students and the community. Campus ministry was the impetus behind the formation of the church, and it remains a central part of local mission, serving students at Northwestern and the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts. The congregation hopes to use the next 100 years building on that mission and expanding their presence in Natchitoches.
For 150 years, First Pines has 60 congregations serving 5,002 members. Social services agencies within its bounds are Evergreen Ministries and the Vera Lloyd Presbyterian Home.
Let us join in prayer for:
Presbytery Staff
Rev. Joseph W. Hill, general presbyter
Rev. J. Daniel Hignight, stated clerk
Cindy Sandifer, information services
PC(USA) Agencies' Staff
Ashley Carter, GAMC
Jacqueline Carter, GAMC
Sylvia B. Carter, GAMC
Let us pray
Gracious God, our Creator. You have loved us from before the beginning of time with a love that knows no boundary. Our Creator and Sustainer, you have encouraged us to be participants in the lives of your creation, to interact and share. Our Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer, you have shown us how to be faithful in living into your kingdom. For all these gifts we are grateful. Amen.
Daily Lectionary
Morning Psalms 15; 147:1-11
First Reading Genesis 31:25-50
Second Reading 1 John 2:12-17
Gospel John 10:1-18
Evening Psalms 48; 4