Per Capita literally means “per person.” Per capita funds cover a diverse set of administrative expenses on the local, synod, and national level, from ordination exams to communication and technology, from meetings of General Assembly to Mission Support Services. In our Presbytery, per capita pays for such things as the functioning of the Presbytery Center in Commack, which is used not only as a mission and administrative “hub,” but also a weekend retreat destination for churches, and as a central site for meetings or educational events. Staff resourcing for church property or insurance matters or questions on the Book of Order and polity comes from our per capita. Per capita is our way of sharing the costs that belong to the whole Presbyterian church community, expressing the central unity of the church.

  Included with your Offering envelopes for 2015 is a Per Capita envelope. You are encouraged to place $30.83 (the amount requested for each active member of your family) during January (if possible) and place it in the offering plate on Sunday morning or mail it to the church. If this is not possible, please be aware that per capita is accepted at any time during the year. Your help in this matter will help to alleviate this financial burden of the church.

NEW MONDAY NIGHT STUDY - "PLENTY GOOD ROOM"

                                                     BEGINS MONDAY, JANUARY 12 

Our Monday Night Bible Study group will begin a Bible study based on African American spirituals titled, “Plenty Good Room.” African American spirituals are among the most beautiful contributions to the world of sacred music. Their infectious harmonies, textures, and rhythms, make this genre distinctive and enriching. Each session will be divided into four parts. The first part describes the unique musical sound and emotional impact of each spiritual. The second part offers historical background, stories, and anecdotes about the settings in which the spiritual originated, and the socio-political ramifications of the lyrics. The third part features Scripture passages that form the basis of each spiritual. The fourth part helps participants apply the understandings of the past to the contemporary world. We begin at 6:30 p.m. every Monday evening.  On January 19 we will study the spiritual, “Go Down, Moses.” All are welcome.

  LOOKING AHEAD TO FEBRUARY:

                                                         Lent Begins February 18

A New Member Orientation will be scheduled soon for those who might be interested in learning more about our congregation and/or the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Participation in the orientation does not commit one to membership, but attendance at the orientation is required of those who desire to join the church. If you are interested in being part of this group, please contact Rev. Mark Phillips (vicarmark@aol.com) or telephone the church office.

Comments and suggestions are appreciated and can be sent to Feedback@OldWhalersChurch.org

Please visit us again soon!