Session Report

George Pattee, Clerk of Session

If I were to sum up the year 2003 at Central Presbyterian Church in one word, that word would be, "pivotal." Central turned the corner in several strategic areas during the course of the year.

We turned the corner on pastoral leadership. We went from no ordained clergy on staff at the beginning of 2003, to Interim Phase II with George Antonakos from February through July, and ended the year with a permanent senior pastor, The Rev. John Schmidt. The PNC (Pastor Nominating Committee) had completed its task. Both Interim Pastor Antonakos and Senior Pastor Schmidt have led Central with conviction, compassion and good courage.

We also turned the corner on vision and direction. Early in the year, we participated in 40 Days of Purpose, both as individuals and as a community of faith. During that forty-day period, we studied and celebrated together in small groups as well as in plenary worship. 40 Days of Purpose prepared our hearts for God's plans and vision for us as individuals and as a congregation. In the Fall, the vision of "A Church Without Walls" took shape as Session along with Staff sought God's mind and heart for Central's direction.

In conjunction with that emerging vision, we realized that our current physical plant will need significant enhancement if "A Church Without Walls" is to become a reality. Consequently, we also turned the corner on Beyond These Walls, Phase II - the second phase of the building expansion begun in 1996. At this writing, teams are busy forming and preparing to move forward with significantly enhanced plans for construction as well as construction funds development.

During these pivotal times, we have been far from stagnant as a body of believers. Both our worshiping community and our membership have grown. Many existing ministries grew, while some disbanded or sought redevelopment. Small groups flourished. Ministry teams formed around new tasks and dreams for ministry. Like any healthy body, Central continued to grow, to change, and to develop.

Indeed, 2003 has been a pivotal year for Central Presbyterian Church. God has positioned us for continued fruitful ministry in 2004. The One who has prepared us in 2003 goes before his Church into 2004. May Central follow Him with wisdom, wit, and wonder.