EPNews 2010 01/14

Haiti disaster relief

The EPC will collect donations for Haiti disaster relief. 100% of designated funds will be sent to World Relief Corporation, an arm of the National Association of Evangelicals, which works throughout the world through local churches in each country. Donations may also be sent directly to World Relief Corporation. Go to their website, www.worldrelief.org, for details.

Student Ministries Update

Rob Craig’s term as Interim Director of Student Ministries concluded on December 31, 2009.  The continuation of Student Ministries programs has been a major focus of attention. On Tuesday, January 12, a joint Committee on Administration (COA) and Student Ministries Committee (SMC) conference call was held to exchange views and to discuss next steps.

It was confirmed that all 2010 Student Ministries programs will proceed as currently planned. Information about these activities, which includes Appalachian Impact can be found at http://www.epc.org/ministries/student-ministries/calendar-of-trips--events/.

Susan Holland, who has served as Student Ministries Assistant for more than six years, will continue to provide direct staff support to Student Ministries. She will be working under the direction of Stated Clerk Jeff Jeremiah.  You may contact Susan at or 734-742-2020 ext.242.

The joint conference call was characterized by a desire on the part of both COA and SMC members to work together to create an effective, missional Student Ministries which will support, encourage and resource as many local church student leaders and ministries as possible. A COA sub-group will meet with SMC at its March 4-5, 2010 meeting.

(return to top)

Appalachian Impact 2010

In 22 of Kentucky's Appalachian counties, more than 10% of occupied housing units are in substandard condition. No running water or indoor plumbing... crumbling foundations... sagging roofs... The median income of this region averages 50% below the U.S. median income. For over 20 years, the EPC has developed a relationship within this community through the Appalachian Impact experience. For novices and veterans alike, Appalachian Impact has been a life changing and faith transforming experience. It is ideal for middle and high school students, or for mission trip veterans. It is primarily a work project oriented through the renovation of homes for the elderly and needy. There are additional opportunities for children's VBS and community outreach activities, including the July 4th weekend. Accommodations are at the Four Seasons Campground which features air conditioned cabins, a large in-ground swimming pool, chapel, hotel, and dining hall. Any student or leader who has participated on Appalachian Impact before knows full well why this is our most popular mission trip.

Now is the time to register.  Click here for dates, forms, and registration. 

(return to top)

Don Sweeting named RTS Orlando PresidentDon Sweeting

Reformed Theological Seminary announces the appointment of Dr. Don Sweeting as president of the Orlando Campus and as professor of church history by unanimous vote of the RTS Board of Directors. Dr. Sweeting will begin serving in this role by June 1, 2010. Don is ordained in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC). He has been the senior pastor of Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church in Englewood, Colorado, since 1998.

Click here to read RTS's full announcement.

(return to top)

Small Church Leaders Conference March 3-5

"Small Church, Significant Ministry" is the theme of a networking conference for leaders of small churches March 3-5 to be held at Bear Creek Church in Lakewood, Colorado.  More details will sent shortly to those on the Z-4:10 Network mailing list.  To be added to the list or if you have questions, contact Ed McCallum at the Office of the General Assembly.  Cost for the conference, including three meals and refreshments, will be $50.  Make plans to attend now and watch for registration details.

(return to top)

Annual Statistical Reporting site now open

The EPC's statistical reporting site is now open for the 2009 Annual Statistical and Financial Report - www.epcdata.org.  Clerks of Sessions will be receiving detailed worksheets for reporting the week of January 18.  Instructions are also available by clicking the quick link to "Annual Statistical Reporting" on www.epc.org.

(return to top)

Nominations for Assembly Committees due Feb. 28

These are significant times for serving on committees of the General Assembly as we consider what it means to be a missional denomination.  The Nominating Committee relys on your assistance because you know people who are well qualified to serve.  Sessions should submit nominations of Ruling Elders to serve on Permanent Committees to the Office of the General Assembly by Feb. 28. Presbyteries should submit their nominations of Teaching Elders (Ministers) by the same date.  Details and nomination endorsement forms are available here.

(return to top)