Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1995 - Rparchives.org

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 133Although Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary faces severefinancial concerns, they continue to train men for the pastorate. OttawaTheological Hall thanks God for their new building and reports 19 meninvolved there in the study of God and His Word. Great Lakes-GulfPresbytery continues to offer seminary level classes at Second Indianapolis RPfor students in central Indiana.It is also apparent that our people are not availing themselves to the fullof these excellent opportunities. Sessions and congregations are encouragedto pray for our theological institutions and to send men to be trained for thepastorate.Financial/AdministrativeWe see a significant increase in congregational giving including inproviding for their pastors and in giving to RP works. Many congregationsare worshipping in new buildings, or enjoying building improvements or newadditions.We are concerned that congregational giving to RP Missions and Ministryfund is down. Some congregations are experiencing financial loss as membersare transferred out of bounds. Denominational income is not keeping upwith inflation and Boards and institutions are severely challenged due tolimited finances available.We give thanks that no RP's lost their lives in Japan's earthquake despitedestruction of homes and possessions. The Foreign Mission Board and thenew Japan presbytery face the challenge of rebuilding homes and theCovenanter Book Store in Japan.With the RP International Conference meeting July 26 to August 2,1996, at Calvin College, Synod will not meet in 1996. A plan was adoptedby Synod for not meeting next year, including appointing a commission todeal with critical matters which cannot wait until the 1997 Synod.Worship and Subordinate StandardsTwo of the international members of the Psalm Translation Committeereported to the Synod. The committee has translated about 50 psalms todate, including all verses of Psalm 119. These psalms are now being set toprose. The Psalm Music committee is working, on collecting tunes to use forthese and other psalm settings.We strive to be faithful, to be "always reforming." Changes to thetestimony clarifying the role and service of women in the church wereapproved by the overture sent down to the sessions. The proposed changeto ordination Query #8 did not pass in overture. Committees to revise ourBook of Discipline and Directory for Worship reported and are continuingtheir work.Synod's continuing instructionsPray faithfully for our chaplains and their families and for members whoserve in the uniformed services, and consider financial support for the JointCommission on Chaplains.