Mission Yearbook: Presbyterian Peace Fellowship hosts Virtual Peace Church service

Advent services are offered as a ‘sanctuary for those who may have felt isolated or disconnected from traditional places of worship’

Presbyterian Peace Fellowship held its “Lost and Found Virtual Peace Church” gathering online on each Sunday during Advent plus Dec. 29. The first night of the service featured Scripture, music, Communion, meditation and a thoughtful homily by the Rev. Dr. Laurie Lyter Bright, PPF’s executive director.

The Rev. Bill Davis, senior director of Theological Education Funds Development at the Presbyterian Foundation, offered up musical selections for Advent on both cello and guitar. Scripture lessons came from Job 3:1–10, Romans 12:9-16 and Luke 1:46-55.

“Our church is a sanctuary for those who may have felt isolated or disconnected from traditional places of worship, offering an opportunity to reconnect with God and each other,” Lost and Found Church states on its website. “We are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive Christian community where all people — regardless of their past experiences or identities — can find belonging.”

Marissa Gutierrez-Vicario led a mindfulness exercise by asking those gathered to find a piece of fruit and reflect on it. “Study the color and shape. Look at the lines and the contours,” Gutierrez-Vicario suggested. “Close your eyes and imagine where you think the fruit might have grown. Imagine feeling the same warm sun that piece of fruit felt.”

As they peeled the skin, worshipers were asked to notice how the smell changed. “Take a bite, and pay attention to how it tastes,” Gutierrez-Vicario said, then wondered: “How did it feel to eat a piece of fruit with intentionality in a space together?”

During her reflection, Lyter Bright opened with a poem by Warsan Shire, which includes this stanza:

“I’ve been praying, 

and these are what my prayers look like;

dear god

i come from two countries

one is thirsty

the other is on fire

both need water.”

Lyter Bright started Advent by reading Job “because Job gets it. He gets fear. He gets the way things fall apart. I don’t know a single peacemaker who isn’t feeling a level of despair” over the fighting and human suffering in places including Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, she said, places where “empire is stretching out and reaching in.”

“Like Job, like Mary, we are just here, lost and found, together in this not-yet space — not one in which the weary world is rejoicing, but just weary,” Lyter Bright said. “Some of us are weary of aspects of church life. … Some of us feel ambivalent about church. Some of us feel good about church and are simply seeking something more.” Then she asked, “What do we do in our weariness and our waiting?”

One thing we can do is lament. “It’s not a traditional Advent practice, but Scripture gives us many models for our soul to cry out when we need to,” she said. “The expectation is God is there, and the community is listening and able to hear.”

We can also hold each other, committing to create “pockets of community where it is absolutely fine to not be fine right now,” Lyter Bright said. “Our lamentations are never solos. Lamentations are a chorus, and a very long one — ancient and future and now.”

What remains is the work of peacemaking, she said. “It reminds us that the story of humanity is so much bigger than me or you. That is maybe where hope lives on — hope that doesn’t rest on the easy reassurance that everything will turn out fine.” In our cries, our laughter, our joy and work, “we belong to each other, and we hold on to each other. We wait, and sometimes we weep, sometimes we sing, and sometimes both — and we do it together.”

To close, Lyter Bright quoted Padraig O Tuama’s Narrative Theology #1, a teaching that includes these words:

“You will find meaning where you give meaning.

The answer is in a story and the story isn’t finished.”

Mike Ferguson, Editor, Presbyterian News Service (Click here to read original PNS story)

Let us join in prayer for:

• Amanda Dunphy, Business Administrator, Finance, Board of Pensions
• Sarah Dunne Pickrell, Mission Associate II, Executive Director’s Office, Interim Unified Agency

Let us pray:

Living God, you are a God on the move, and you call us to follow you. Give us courage and strength during times of worry so that we may share your love and grace with all people. Help us to hear your call and respond in faith by bearing good fruit and growing in the knowledge of you. Amen.

Minute for Mission: Remember Our Chaplains — Presbyterian Federal Chaplaincies

Matthew 25: “I was a stranger, and you welcomed me…I was sick, and you took care of me; I was in prison, and you visited me.”

On Feb. 3, 1943, four U.S. Army chaplains from different faith traditions selflessly gave up their life jackets to others on the USAT Dorchester as it sank from a strike by an enemy torpedo. Survivors recall seeing four chaplains, arms linked together, praying as the ship slipped beneath the waves. Since that date, Feb. 3 has become an observance called Four Chaplains Day, which brings together people of diverse backgrounds to recognize our shared humanity.

Our Book of Order states, “God sends the Church to join the mission of Jesus Christ in service to the world.” Just as those four chaplains were called to serve their military community during World War II, today, dedicated PC(USA) chaplains minister in various federal, state and local ministries as they seek to remain faithful to that call.

The Presbyterian Federal Chaplaincies endorses PC(USA) chaplains serving in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, the Veterans Affairs hospitals and the branches of our military. As highlighted in Matthew 25, these chaplains are called to bring hope and transform their respective communities through acts of love and compassion: feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, visiting prisoners, freeing captives, sheltering the homeless, welcoming strangers, comforting those who mourn and being present with all who are in need. These times include:

A VA chaplain called to sit with an elderly veteran in his hospital room during his last few moments of life. The chaplain conveyed words of love and reassurance and offered prayers while waiting for the family to arrive. They were grateful knowing their loved one was never alone.

A military chaplain conducted a funeral service for a soldier whose remains were identified 73 years after he was declared Missing in Action. The chaplain said it was an honor and privilege to help bring closure to the family that waited so long for their loved one to be returned.   

A Federal Bureau of Prison chaplain advocating for incarcerated adults and daily proclaiming God's grace as they deal with shame, guilt, anger and the belief that no one, not even God, can ever love them. This chaplain firmly believes these spiritual and emotional chains can be broken, and chaplains can help release them from their control.

Whether it’s 1943 or 2025, PC(USA) chaplains engage with people when life brings about cause for celebration, sorrow, accomplishment, doubt, renewal and despair. Pray for our chaplains who selflessly give of themselves so that the voice of the voiceless can be heard, the needs of those in need can be met, and the gift of hope and life itself can be given in the darkest moments in unexpected ways.

For more information on serving as a Veterans Affairs, federal prison or military chaplain, go to presfedchap.org. 

Rev. Dennis E. Hysom, Executive Director, Presbyterian Federal Chaplaincies and retired Army Chaplain

Let us join in prayer for:

• Susan Dudgeon, Operations Specialist, Presbyterian Foundation 
• Angela Duffy, President & CEO, New Covenant Trust Co., Presbyterian Foundation

Let us pray:

Loving God, you know how deep wounds go. You know that many in our communities suffer, and you feel that pain in their lives. You know the memories that haunt them and the scars that many of them continue to carry. O merciful Savior, bring healing to those who are still hurting. Please grant patience and wisdom to those around them who cannot understand but can sometimes help. Permit both physical and spiritual healing to wounds that remain. For this, we pray in your most holy name, Amen.

Minute for Mission: Black History Month begins

Samantha and her Nana (provided)

Western society has used two great tools to oppress Black people. One, the Bible, spewing oppressive theology to justify first the acts of enslavement, and still to safeguard harmful laws and practices that disproportionately impact Black people. Two, the erasure of Black stories, Black history and the stripping of Black culture. I will not spend the next 600 words declaring what I hope you already know; that we serve a JUST GOD.

So, instead, I will challenge us to take heed to these Scriptures, breathe them, live them, allow them to guide you whenever you have doubt. Consider this piece my attempt to model one small way we can combat systemic racism this Black History Month through telling, celebrating, and honoring Black stories, Black history and Black culture.

My Nana painted the walls of her two-bedroom townhome on the Southside of Pittsburgh the color of Pepto Bismol. She covered every inch with images of Black people from all over the world and called it beautiful. It was. Black people, 140 million in the diaspora, 1.2 billion on the continent, connected by water, land, history and culture. I see them, I feel them. And while we were taught that they should bring us shame, it brings me immense pleasure ... so let us honor it.

Honor our dance. It is both our rebellion and our freedom, connecting us across the diaspora to the souls of our ancestors. Connected by Bomba of Puerto Rico, as our bare feet repel from the land and our bodies move with the vibrations of the drums. Connected by Second Line of Louisiana, as the sound of brass instruments pair with our footwork and we parade down the streets of our homes. Let us honor it.

Honor our hair. Hair, like our melanin, both envied and adored. Our coils, locs and kinks that rise with the sun, act as a reminder of who our people are. We are the people of the Zulu tribe in South Africa rocking our Bantu Knots, the Mbalantu women of Namibia with our box braids and we are every Black girl across the diaspora today. Let us honor it.

Honor our food. The very nourishment of Black people, sustaining us in the darkest of hours and aiding in our joy in the daylight. Recipes, many never written, but inherently known, ingredients derived from the land our ancestors freely farmed. Let us honor it.

Samantha and her Nana (provided)

Honor our creativity. The holder of culture, embodying the authentic, diverse and unapologetic expression of our people. The hands, the voices, the words, the music, the eye, the rhythm, the style — Augusta Savage. Nina Simone. Raoul Peck. Josephine Baker. Creativity is the pathway to our liberation. Let us honor it.

Honor our spirituality. It connects us to what has passed, what is and what is yet to come, reminding us of our innate power, reminding us of our divinity. It links us in practice through the pouring out of libations in memory of our ancestors from the ocean shores of Ghana to the street corners of Chicago. It grounds us in collective care and community as the Black churches create safe havens from Selma, through Louisville, to Delaware. It is our knowing that we will win. Let us honor it.

My Nana painted the walls of her two-bedroom townhome on the Southside of Pittsburgh the color of Pepto Bismol. She covered every inch with images of Black people from all over the world and called it beautiful. It was.

Let us honor it today, tomorrow, and all of our tomorrows by telling, celebrating and honoring our stories, Black stories, Black history, Black culture. AND you don’t have to stop there.

• Proclaim your commitment to inclusion clearly and often. Concede nothing at the expense of inclusion, at the expense of the safety for the “other.”
• Challenge oppressive interpretations of the Word.
• Speak out against injustices. Ask how you can stand in solidarity with those that are oppressed. How can you be an ally?
• Intentionally seek opportunities for yourself and others to learn and unlearn.
• Acknowledge impact. Take/hold each other accountable.

When all else fails, lead with love. Do no harm.

Samantha Davis, Associate for Gender & Racial Justice, Racial Equity & Women’s Intercultural Ministries, Interim Unified Agency

Let us join in prayer for:

• Katie Dosset, Assistant Trust Officer, Presbyterian Foundation
• Charlotte Downs, Virtual YAV, Young Adult Volunteer Program, Interim Unified Agency

Let us pray:

To the Most High, Creator of this Universe, Olodumare, Olorun, Mawu, Nzambi Mpungu, Unkulu Unkulu, Chukwu and the many other names by which African peoples have acknowledged you across the stage of human history, we humbly ask that you continue to be with us. Empower us, as you always have, even when we may have been ignorant of your presence. Remind us to honor our spirituality, creativity, food, hair and bodies as the Divine gifts that they are. Be with us this month and every month, from now until the end of time. Ase’ and Ase’-O!

Today in the Mission Yearbook - The Stewpot

First Presbyterian Church of Dallas has acquired Opportunity Center in order for its
partner, The Stewpot, to continue serving its downtown neighbors. (Contributed
photo)

The Stewpot and CitySquare are longtime partners of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas with a shared commitment to meeting the basic needs of individuals in the community and helping them improve their lives.

Read Full Article

Let us join in prayer for:

• Simon Doong, Associate for Corporate, Community & Church Engagement, Office of Faith-Based Investing & Shareholder Engagement, Presbyterian Mission Agency
• Leo Dorsey, Web Developer/designer, Communications Ministry, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Let us pray:

Lord God, we thank you for the many blessings you have so generously bestowed upon us. Open our hearts and minds and sharpen our eyesight so that we might see those places, near and far, where we can be your feet and hands in service to your reconciling love here on earth. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Adopt-A-Prison concept

The Rev. Victor and Violet Chembela offer up songs to
people incarcerated in Zimbabwe (Contributed photo)

Did you ever have a dream of a street, a park or perhaps a country being named after you? 

Naming a country after himself was the arrogant feat accomplished by Cecil Rhodes, a British citizen in the late 1800s. As the founder of the British South Africa Company in 1893, Rhodes, besides reaping untold riches, managed to name a large territory in the southern part of Africa after himself, Rhodesia, a new country 1.5 times larger than his home country, England.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Carla Dobson, VP, Director of Philanthropic Services, Trust Services, Presbyterian Foundation
• David Dobson, President & Publisher, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation

Let us pray:

God of the Future, we are a people seeking your mission for us. We know you go before us. Help us to follow where you lead, trust your promises and rely on your grace for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - America’s Presbyterian past, present and future

A visiting tour group from the Point Pleasant (N.J.) Presbyterian Church.
(Contributed photo)

For Eileen Lindner — a longtime Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) pastor, mid council and denominational leader — Oct. 31 has always been much less about celebrating Halloween than it is about observing Reformation Day. 

And while Lindner, who holds a Ph.D. in church history, would never have missed out on distributing Halloween candy to her two grandchildren last year, she also found Oct. 31 to be the perfect time to launch a monthlong, adult education study of Presbyterian history.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Christy Dickson, Manager, Fund Services, Presbyterian Foundation 
• Dawn Diggs, Manager, Compliance, Presbyterian Foundation 

Let us pray:

Dear Lord, help us to hear your words of hope and your call to transformation from the voices of the past into our shared future. Amen.

The Voice of the Martyrs - LISTEN: Worshiping with Nigerian Widows: "Standing on Holy Ground"

“I had to slip off my shoes … It was such a holy moment.”

In this special episode of VOM Radio, Aaron Miller, who leads VOM’s international work to serve persecuted Christians, looks back on VOM’s work in 2024 and looks ahead to places where VOM will have more opportunity to serve persecuted Christians in 2025. Looking back on 2024, Aaron recounts a “holy moment” early one morning as he followed the sounds of worship to a chapel filled with Christian widows in Nigeria. They were at that location as part of a ministry effort to help them heal and prepare them for life without their husbands. But that early morning time of worship and intercession wasn’t part of the program. It wasn’t on the schedule. It was simply a spontaneous gathering to call out to God and to bask in his presence. “One of the most beautiful things was these women praying together,” Aaron says. “Holding hands … arm around another sister, praying together that morning. One of the topics that came up was pray for those who have persecuted us, pray for forgiveness, pray for the salvation of those who had attacked them and who had caused great harm to their families. And they prayed so fervently! So passionately … that is why I had to slip my shoes off.” Listen now to hear Aaron share this experience. He also gives an update on Christians in Syria and how you can pray for VOM’s work serving persecuted Christians in 2025. Listen to VOM Radio Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen Online

LIBYA: “Stay here. I will protect you.”

The security situation in Libya was breaking down. More terrorist activity and more attacks occurred every week. Almost all foreign workers were leaving the country. But God told Nagy and Hope to stay there along with their young children. God reminded them that he had called them there and clearly told them that he would protect them. Listen now to hear how God kept his word to Nagy and Hope, providing for their needs even as the country’s economy was collapsing. God provided for and protected not only Nagy and Hope but the Muslims around them as well, leading several to ask about their God and to see his hand at work. Be inspired by the faithfulness of God, who meets every need as we follow his call. Listen to VOM Radio Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen Online

The Voice of the Martyrs - You Can Help Nigerian Christian Widows and Their Children

You can help Nigerian Christian widows and their children.

Attacks by Boko Haram and militant Fulani Muslims have widowed more than 10,000 of our Christian sisters in northern Nigeria in the past 20 years, and widows who left Islam to follow Christ are often refused help by Muslim family members. Many are mothers with no formal education or employable skills. They struggle to feed their families after their husbands are killed. Their children grow up without their fathers, sometimes experiencing persecution themselves. Stand with Them Regina’s husband, a Nigerian missionary, was shot to death in front of her by Islamic militants who then beat her and her two-year-old son, Joshua, whom she was carrying on her back. They survived, but Regina has been grieving the loss of her husband ever since his murder. She has three children, the oldest of which is 10. Asabe, another Christian widow, lost her husband in 2020 in a bombing by Boko Haram. After her husband’s death, his Muslim brother threw Asabe and her child out of the home. Even after experiencing persecution and rejection for Christ, Asabe said, “I learned forgiveness toward everyone who has hurt me.” We invite you to stand with our Nigerian sisters in Christ whose husbands have been killed for their faith. Your help also shows their children that they are loved and cared for by the global body of Christ. You can assist with necessities like food, clothing, shelter and children’s school fees. Your gift will also provide help such as vocational training for widows to help them support their families, as well as spiritual and emotional encouragement following their loss. I Will Help

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Protecting Immigrant Rights webinar

Photo by Barbara Zandoval via Unsplash

More than 800 people registered for the recent “Protecting Immigrant Rights Near and Far” webinar, which had a capacity of 300 participants. Organizers promised additional online gatherings as Presbyterians and others determine effective and faithful strategies for accompanying migrants during the second Trump administration.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Bryan Dickerson, Financial & Investment Planning Associate, Presbyterian Foundation 
• Doug Dicks, Associate for Ecumenical Partnerships in Israel/Palestine, World Mission, Presbyterian Mission Agency

Let us pray:

Holy Lord, thank you for the renewing, sustaining power of your Spirit. Bless your church with vision and courage that we might serve you faithfully even when the odds seem to be against us. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Four-year dual degree program offered

The Rev. Dr. Margaret Aymer

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary and Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas, have collaborated to offer an innovative four-year dual degree program empowering students with the skills necessary to meet the evolving demands of faith-based leadership in today’s complex world.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Ann DeVilbiss, Production Associate, Presbyterian Publishing Corporation
• Jim Deweese, Graphic Designer II, Communications Ministry, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)

Let us pray:

Creator God, thank you for speaking to your servants through the lives of others. Bless those whose prayers and actions sustain the men and women you call to ministry of your church. Amen.

WCC NEWS: Scholar Kristina Mantasasvili focuses dissertation toward WCC work—and what it means to “re-evangelize” the world

Scholar Kristina Mantasasvili chose to focus her doctoral dissertation on work related to the World Council of Churches (WCC). She took time to reflect on what inspired her, the challenges she faced, and the hope she has for the growth of future visions. 11 May 2022, Paralimni, Cyprus: Participants in an Inter-Orthodox Pre-Assembly Consultation to the World Council of Churches’ 11th Assembly – among them Kristina Mantasasvili – walk towards the chapel of Agia Anna for morning prayer. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 23 January 2025 What inspired you to focus your dissertation on the WCC? Mantasasvili: My ecumenical journey began early in my academic career. During my master’s dissertation, I explored the topic of ecumenical theology and the ecumenical movement in the work of Prof. Nicos Matsoukas, a most profoundly inspiring Orthodox theologian, who has shaped a generation of contemporary Orthodox theologians, and his work sparked my initial interest in the World Council of Churches and the efforts of its Faith and Order Commission. In 2014, I had the honor of representing the Ecumenical Patriarchate as a steward during a WCC central committee meeting. This experience allowed me to witness the vital work of ecumenical collaboration firsthand and meet dedicated ecumenical leaders, such as Prof. Rev. Odair Pedroso Mateus, who later became the director of Faith and Order. That same year, His Eminence Elpidophoros, now Archbishop of America, nominated me as a youth representative of the Ecumenical Patriarchate to the Commission on Faith and Order. Over the next eight years, I had the privilege of contributing to this important work. While the tasks were both fascinating and occasionally challenging, the experience was transformative. I worked alongside Orthodox church leaders, such as the late Metropolitan Gennadios of Sassima and His Eminence Vassilios of Constantia, as well as theologians like Prof. Rachel Muers, and so many other inspiring ecumenists. This extraordinary journey profoundly shaped my academic work and inspired the redirection of my dissertation toward the work of the WCC. It allowed me to witness the dedication of individuals striving to make a meaningful difference in Christianity and the world—working with mutual respect, fostering Christian unity, and striving for a positive impact on global challenges. So, my dissertation is titled “Anthropological models. From post-Palamite Philokalia to ecumenical dialogue (WCC)” and explores the anthropological paradigms within the post-Palamite Philokalia and their potential contributions to ecumenical dialogue, particularly within the framework of the World Council of Churches. By examining the Orthodox hesychastic tradition’s understanding of “human”, as a being created in the image and likeness of God and in a multidimensional relationship with his Creator, it is an effort to bridge spiritual practices rooted in hesychasm with contemporary theological discussions. The study highlights the relevance of Orthodox theology in addressing modern issues such as human rights, offering insights into human identity, spiritual unity, and the shared quest for reconciliation. In your work, what have you found other be the biggest challenges in building bridges related to human rights, human identity, and spiritual unity? Mantasasvili: During my research, I became acutely aware of how far we, as a society, have drifted from authentic Christian teaching and the life and experience it calls us to embody. In my view, this disconnection – detachment — is at the heart of the spiritual crisis humanity faces today. The diminishment and fragmentation of our relationship with God, ourselves, with one another, and with creation has led to a deep sense of alienation, deep crisis, and even desperation. In recent years, theological discussions, also within the World Council of Churches, have increasingly emphasized the need for a re-evangelization of the world. This initiative may hold the key to addressing our current spiritual and existential challenges. Re-evangelization, understood not merely as renewal but a path toward restoring our collective sense of purpose, identity, connection, and relationship. So, through my research I tried to make this link and the dissertation actually concludes with the synthesis of the anthropological models of the Philokalia, which are proposed as a discourse of peace, unity, and brotherhood, linking them to contemporary anthropological reflection and inter-Christian dialogue within WCC. Through the analysis, the timeless value of the hesychastic tradition and its originality today is highlighted, offering a perspective also for ecumenical dialogue and a foundation for peaceful coexistence and fraternity. How will your findings find their way into congregations across the world? Mantasasvili: This is a profound challenge, both in the academic and ecumenical spheres: ensuring that our work makes a tangible, positive impact—or any impact, for that matter—on society and congregations. While I recognize that in some church contexts it may be easier to bridge the gap between theological work and practical application, in many cases, the work we do often struggles to reach the people who need it most. Scholars and ecumenists, labor to articulate ideas, frameworks, and pathways that can inspire transformation, but there is always the risk that these efforts remain confined to the academic sphere. The question of how to translate our work into meaningful engagement with communities is a constant struggle. My idea-work is now released into the world and like all ideas, it will follow its own life and path, beyond my control. I can only hope and pray that, by God’s grace, this work will resonate beyond its immediate context, in ways that will spark dialogue, reflection, and practice. Ultimately, we all hope—that our ideas and efforts might contribute, however modestly, to a greater renewal of faith and community and in the same time, it is a reminder that while we plant seeds, it is God who brings the growth, often in ways we cannot foresee. See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Emergency assistance received in time of need

Jenni Whitford (Contributed photo)

A single phone call nearly 20 years ago turned Jenni Whitford’s whole world upside down. 

Whitford and her young family had just returned from vacation when her husband’s workplace called. 

“I came home from a session meeting and got a call that my husband, Ken, had collapsed,” recalled Whitford, who was then serving as a three-quarter-time Christian educator in her home church, First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Michigan.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• John DePaul, Director, Enterprise Reporting & Analytics, Board of Pensions
• Mark DeSantis, Vice President, IT Infrastructure & Security, Board of Pensions

Let us pray:

God of the new life, we ask that our hearts and minds might be open to new revelations of how we are called to serve you May your Spirit inspire us with new resurrection possibilities in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Donating goods to farmworkers in Eastern Virginia

Families go through donated clothing outside the Head Start center
in Cheriton, Va. (Contributed photo)

As a Hunger Action Advocate for the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia, Jessica Fitzgerald loves to collect goods for farm laborers and their families, particularly migrants and seasonal workers who contribute to the state’s agriculture industry.

From staples such as masa flour, oil and dry beans, to gift cards and clothing, the donated products are distributed with the help of volunteers and support from about 14 churches within the presbytery.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Alicia Demartra-Pressley, Associate, Mission Equipping, Theology, Formation & Evangelism, Presbyterian Mission Agency 
• Nina Demers, Administrative Assistant, Self-Development of People, Presbyterian Mission Agency

Let us pray:

Gracious God, we thank you that your Spirit is working through those congregations to meet human needs in Christ’s name, helping us all to grow in your knowledge and love. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - Unification Commission realigns two ministry areas to support mid councils

Many of the PC(USA)’s 1001 New Worshiping Communities began in
nontraditional settings, including coffeehouses. (Contributed photo)

Several ministries in the new interim unified agency of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) will be reconfigured, including the Theology, Formation & Evangelism ministry area, which serves presbyteries and synods as they support congregations and develop spiritual leadership across the church.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• DeEtte Decker, Vision Integration & Constituent Service Manager, Executive Director’s Office, Presbyterian Mission Agency
• Chelsea de Lisser, Retreat Center Manager, Stony Point Center, Presbyterian Mission Agency

Let us pray:

God of Creation of all people, you provide abundantly for our every need. We pray for people who are hungry and homeless. Help us in the name of Jesus to share the resources you entrusted to us with our neighbors near and far. Amen.

Today in the Mission Yearbook - People of faith and secularists work together to preserve democratic institutions

E.J. Dionne Jr.

Speaking recently as part of the McClendon Scholar Program at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C., author, professor and newspaper columnist E.J. Dionne Jr. wrapped up a 90-minute online and in-person appearance with his take on the meaning of Christmas.

Read Full Article 

Let us join in prayer for:

• Leon Davis, Dishwasher, Stony Point Center, Presbyterian Mission Agency
• Samantha Davis, Coordinator for Gender & Racial Justice, REWIM, Presbyterian Mission Agency 

Let us pray:

God, may Christ fill us with your love and hope for the world. Help us put our earthly problems into proper perspective and grow closer to you so that we can hear your call to live out our faith in word and deed. Amen.

WCC NEWS: WCC communications in 2024: expanding messages of unity across the world

Communication from the World Council of Churches (WCC) in 2024, through storytelling via many channels, fostered unity in unprecedented ways across the world. From the largest global prayer gathering, to 2.3 million engagements on social media, to large numbers of young visitors both in-person and online, WCC communications connected with more people, in more ways than ever. Members of the Commission on Climate Justice and Sustainable Development of the World Council of Churches pictured in connection with a historical joint meeting of three commissions held in March 2024. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 23 January 2025 WCC news: what was most read?  During 2024, the WCC website attracted the interest of 1.6 million visitors worldwide, an 8% increase compared to 2023. The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in January was the week with highest number of visits (over 50,000) during the year. Photo: WCC With an average of 15 news articles published online per week, the WCC published more than 800 articles during the year - including news, feature stories, and interviews, many of them made available in the four working languages of the WCC. Stories were distributed to the media and news subscribers, as well as shared in the WCC social media channels.  Among the most-read WCC news stories during the year 2024 were the stories on the WCC stewards programme for 2025, Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, Global Ecumenical Theological Institute, and the passing away of theologian Jürgen Moltmann, as well as on churches and religious sites destroyed in Ukraine due to the Russian invasion. Social media: exponential growth In 2024, the WCC continued to inspire, build digital bridges, and engage global audiences through social media channels, achieving over 3 million impressions and connecting with 2.3 million users. The shift toward short, dynamic audiovisual content was evident, with reels experiencing 87.6% growth. Key campaigns, including prayers for Armenia, Thursdays in Black, Tax the Super Rich, and coverage of the Triple COPs, captured on social media channels the essence of the WCC’s mission to promote justice and peace.  An example of a so-called social media card from September 2024, developed by the WCC to be shared by member churches and partners across an array of platforms. The year showcased on WCC channels the power of concise, values-driven storytelling, with tributes to theologian Jürgen Moltmann and messages of hope generating widespread engagement. Platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn experienced significant follower growth, highlighting the importance of visual storytelling and professional outreach. Strong media presence The WCC maintained a strong presence in global media throughout the year, with more than 5,000 mentions. Coverage predominantly focused on the WCC’s advocacy for peace in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as its work on Faith and Order. This widespread media attention underscores the WCC's ongoing commitment to promoting justice, reconciliation, and unity within the global ecumenical community. Journals reach 55,000+ In 2024, the WCC published three issues of its journal The Ecumenical Review on the themes "Christ's Love (Re)moves Borders," with contributions from participants at the 2022 Global Ecumenical Theological Institute (GETI); "Reflections on Visible Unity,"; and "100 Years of Ecumenical Social Ethics and Action," to prepare for the 100th anniversary in 2025 of the Universal Christian Council on Life and Work in Stockholm.  Two issues of International Review of Mission were published: "Decolonial Discipleship," framing the ongoing struggle to redeem mission from its colonial possession and dismantle mission ideologies that justified this; and "Mission in the Context of Empire," looking to two commemorations in 2025: the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, and the 140th anniversary of the Conference of Berlin in which European powers discussed between themselves how to partition and exploit Africa.  An issue of Current Dialogue, on reconfiguring interfaith work, is in preparation.  The journals are published on behalf of the WCC by Wiley and also available in the Wiley Online Library. In 2024 there were more than 55,000 full text online views of articles from all these journals combined. Prophetic publications During 2024, the WCC continued to publish reports, brochures, and books on various WCC programmatic areas of interest to the fellowship. WCC publications can be downloaded for free.  A man reads one of the many WCC publications that journeyed across the globe in 2024. Photo: Gloria Charles/WCC WCC Publications coordinated 26 publications of different kinds, a number of which were translated. An international distribution agreement has been signed to ensure greater exposure and access to WCC publications. The first “Ecumenical Booktalks” video was published on YouTube to give behind-the-scenes information on publications. Promoting inclusivity The WCC Language Service improved inclusivity by providing sign language interpretation for meetings of the WCC governing bodies. The Language Service provided interpretation for ten online events, also in cooperation with the UN and other international partners. During 2024, the Language Service provided translations of nearly 300 documents and news stories. Alongside the official working languages, translations were also made into Greek, Arabic, Hebrew, Ukrainian, Russian, and Portuguese.  Array of visitors  In 2024, WCC welcomed over 700 visitors from different countries and regions—and visitors included an unprecedented number of young people. These groups visited both the Ecumenical Centre and the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, with visits varying from half-day, full-day, and multi-day engagements. The visitors included representatives from both member and non-member churches, as well as leaders from various religious traditions. This diverse group included religious leaders, bishops, pastors, priests, and individuals from different Christian denominations, alongside representatives from other faiths. Additionally, the WCC hosted ambassadors, members of international organizations, students from universities and schools, confirmation groups, journalists, professors, theologians, laypeople, and individuals interested in the ecumenical movement. Some of the many groups of visitors received by the WCC in Geneva in 2024. Photo: WCC Newcomers—including students, church leaders, confirmation groups, and those interested in the work of the WCC—were offered introductory sessions. For many students visiting for the first time, these sessions provided a valuable introduction to the WCC’s mission, while some visits focused on leadership development or theological studies. Geneva Engage Geneva Engage recognized the WCC for 10 years of shaping, engaging, and connecting people.  The WCC has been a “pillar of the Geneva Engage Awards, consistently standing out as top contributors to digital diplomacy and global collaboration,” wrote Geneva Engage. The WCC joins prominent groups such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and World Health Organization in this top tier of groups who have spent a decade or more engaging and connecting people.  Side-event hosted by the WCC and supported by the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, held at the United Nations in Geneva and online in August 2024. Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC The WCC was specifically recognized by Geneva Engage for “fostering global unity and interfaith dialogue with a strong digital presence.” See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland