April Assembly Highlights: Conspiring for Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness

🌬️ Partnering: Courageously Conspiring Together

At our April 1, 2025, Presbytery Assembly Gathering—graciously hosted by Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church—Moderator Ruth McCollum Huff welcomed folx into a spirit of connection and collaboration. She introduced our guiding theme:
Conspiring… for Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness
Conspiring… to Respond to the Call of Transformation

Rooted in the 2025 vision of Courageously Conspiring Together, we explored how our shared ministry can breathe life into discipleship and transformation across the Presbytery.

🎥 Missed it or want to revisit the conversation?
The full gathering is now available on the Presbytery Vimeo Channel, with chapter headings to help you easily navigate to the moments that matter most to you.

Thank you for continuing to walk this courageous, Spirit-led path with us. We’re better—stronger—when we breathe together.

Partnering: Courageously Conspiring Together

Moderator Ruth McCollum Huff welcomed folx* to our Assembly Gathering at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church and shared our theme for this meeting Conspiring…for Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness and  Conspiring …..to  respond to the Call of Transformation

The Gathering was recorded and can be viewed on the Presbytery Vimeo Channel. There are Chapter Headings for the meeting that are listed on the link to easier locate  portions of the meeting you wish to view. 

Welcome Co-Moderator of the 226th General Assembly | Rev. Tony Larson

Denver Presbytery welcomed the Rev. Tony Larson, the Co-Moderator of the General Assembly of the PC(USA). Anthony "Tony" Larson was born in Minneapolis and raised in North Carolina, where he attended the University of North Carolina, earning a double major in Public Policy Analysis and Religious Studies. He felt a calling to ministry while serving as a youth ministry director and later earned a Master of Divinity from Union Presbyterian Seminary. Tony has served in various leadership roles, including co-leading the Synod Youth Council and planning the Montreat Youth Conference, and is currently the pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Surfside, South Carolina. Outside of ministry, he is a self-described "semi-professional nerd," enjoys cooking and jazz, and being a husband, father, and grandfather. 

Worship 

Sheri Fry led our Land Acknowledgement as Transitional Pastor of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church. Rev. Tony Larson preached a sermon entitled Scraping Bottom (begins at minute 35.06 on recording)

Thank you Worship Leaders for a wonderful Assembly Worship! 

Mark Boykins (soloist and pianist), Abby McCubbin, Sandy Safford, Kiersten Hill,  Tony Larson, Judy Viccellio (Guitarist), Ann Butcher (liturgical arts).

Lead Presbyter Report | Dee Cooper

Dee discussed the Matthew 25 movement, emphasizing congregational vitality beyond traditional metrics of church success. She encouraged participants to be "fools" who continue to believe in love and connection, even in challenging times. Dee highlighted the importance of anti-racism training, authentic community, and breaking down barriers that prevent meaningful relationships. Dee encouraged the Presbytery to ‘lean in’ by gathering together, sharing perspectives, and affirming that all people are children of God is a radical act of faith and love. (The Lead Presbyter report begins at 1.21:22 on the vimeo recording)

Offering

The Assembly took an offering Centro de los Trabajadores. Centro de los Trabajadores, formerly Centro Humanitario, is Denver’s only day laborer center promoting work, dignity, and community. Since 2002, thousands of workers have accessed El Centro’s programs, including know your rights and job skills training, leadership development, and direct access to jobs. El Centro also provided the meal for the gathering.

Welcome New Minister Members!

Mike Cole is Honorably Retired and the Transitional Pastor at Providence Presbyterian Church. He is a member of Pueblo Presbytery.

Denise Shannon is a Member at Large transferring from Plains and Peaks Presbytery. Denise is a member of the Presbyterian Older Adult Ministry Network, and shared information about POAMN before the meeting. 

Denver Pride

Bethany Peerbolte updated the Presbytery on Denver Pride and the ways folx can be involved as Denver Presbytery. She talked about the importance and impact Denver Presbytery had last year at the Pride Festival, and the importance of our presence this year. Denver Pride is June 28-29, 2025, and details will be forthcoming in the E-News.

Generative Time

Our theme, Conspiring… for Spiritual Growth and Faithfulness and Conspiring… to Respond to the Call of Transformation, is grounded in the seven markers of a vital congregation—reminding us that true vitality is not about size or budget, but about intentional, courageous growth together in faith. The generative time invited the Presbytery to co-create, imagine, and actively participate in the ongoing transformation of our congregations and communities by working together to plant “terrariums”. 

As the terrariums were planted, folx were asked to consider—- what foundational practices will enrich an individual’s community’s spiritual soil, reflect on the types of growth you’d love to see flourish, and notice the emotions that arise through collaboration and trust. Participants explored  how this creative act mirrors the shared work of nurturing spiritual development. Terrariums were then taken home by an individual to care for them, and arrangements were made to return them to the May 20, 2025 Assembly. 

Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program (PILP)

We welcomed Rev. Dr. Clayton Thomas, the Vice President of Sales and Relationship Management for PILP for the first time. Clayton gave the presbytery an update from PILP, and handed out rebate checks to our congregations working with PILP. 

General Assembly Amendment Resources

In preparation for the May 20, 2025 Assembly where we will vote on the 12 Amendments to the Book of Order and and the Ecumenical Agreement with the Episcopal Church, Ruth Huff, gretchen Sausville, and Beth Carlisle shared where the presbytery can find information about the General Assembly Overtures that has been shared and curated over the past 9 months. All information about the General Assembly and resources about the Amendments can be found here

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance National Response Team

The Presbytery Commissioned Presbyterian Disaster Assistance National Response Team Volunteers: Wanda Beauman, Sheri Fry, Karen Hogue Murray, and Mark Williams. Thank you for your service to this meaningful ministry.

Acknowledgements

Thank you to Rev. Sheri Fry, the staff and many volunteers at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church for your space, hospitality, and making room for all of us.

Faith Leaders Speak Out for Truth & Justice

On April 17th, faith leaders from across Colorado gathered in front of Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church for a press conference to stand united against the rising campaign of terror and hate targeting our immigrant friends and neighbors.

As followers of Christ, we are called to love the stranger, welcome the sojourner, and speak truth in the face of injustice. The Colorado Faith Leader Public Statement: Truths About Immigration affirms what we know from Scripture and what we witness in our communities.

The Journey with Migrants team continues to walk alongside those impacted—bearing witness to their courage, and responding with solidarity and love.

Faith leaders: Read and sign the statement today. Click here.

Let us be the Church that stands for truth, compassion, and justice.

Need Help Navigating Conflict? Mediation Is Available

Conflict is a natural part of life together—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Presbytery now offers mediation support for congregations and leaders seeking clarity, restoration, and healthy communication.

Wondering if mediation is right for your situation?
Check out our guides to see if you may benefit from the help of our mediation team.

Questions? Reach out to Rev. Jordan Warntjes.

Let’s walk the path of reconciliation together.

A Journey of Faith and Clean Water: GMP's 2025 Mission to Guatemala

From left to right the folks in the picture are Christi Slade (1st Pres of Englewood)  Cory Lack (Covenant Pres), Beth Hewlett (Calvary), Ben Bridge (1st Pres of Englewood).

From March 19-26, 2025, the Guatemala Mission Partnership (GMP)—a collaboration between Calvary, Covenant Presbyterian Church, First Presbyterian Church of Englewood, and St. Andrew—embarked on a transformative journey to Guatemala. However, the moment we landed in Guatemala City, our mission faced an unexpected challenge: nationwide protests had shut down all roads. It seemed our work might be stalled indefinitely. But God had other plans.

Miraculously, within 24 hours, the roads reopened, and we were on our way.

Bringing Hope to Chiquimula’s Hospital

Our first stop was the hospital in Chiquimula, a 250-bed facility with a bustling outpatient clinic. Serving both local Guatemalans and immigrants traveling through Honduras, the hospital is a crucial lifeline for many. We were thrilled to sign a contract to install a Living Waters of the World clean water system, with hopes of completing the project by June.

Penial: Clean Water as a Ministry

Next, we returned to Penial, where we had installed a system in October 2022. After a joyful time of worship and a shared meal, we checked in on their water system—thriving beyond expectations! Their pastor shared how clean water has become a tool for evangelism; when visiting new villages, he brings a garrafón of purified water, telling people that this life-giving resource is a gift from God.

Chukmuk Rural School: Changing Lives, One Child at a Time

Our final stop was Chukmuk Rural School, where we had installed a system in April 2024. With 550 students, access to clean water has been life-changing. Before, the school sent home an average of two children daily due to severe diarrhea. But since their school year began on February 14, 2025, only one child has needed to leave due to illness. Now, they dream of expanding access so that students can bring clean drinking water home to their families.

A Heartfelt Thank You

The GMP is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from Denver Presbytery and our individual churches. Your generosity and prayers make this life-changing work possible.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved, we’d love to hear from you! Visit our website or reach out to one of our partnering churches.

World Mission leader addresses questions regarding shift in global ministry approach  

World Mission leader addresses questions regarding shift in global ministry approach  
Reconfiguring the church’s international presence among top priorities 

 

Rick Jones
Presbyterian News Service 
March 17, 2025 
LOUISVILLE 

Last month, leaders in the Interim Unified Agency of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) announced a reimagining of how it approaches global ministry. The plan includes transitioning World Mission with a new vision that leaders believe will continue to build connections with PC(USA) partners domestically and around the world.  

The Presbyterian News Service recently talked with the Rev. Mienda Uriarte, interim deputy executive director in the IUA, to address some of the questions around the decisions to change this approach to global ministry.  

 The PC(USA)’s approach to World Mission goes back decades. Why make this change now? 

The deep relationships formed through World Mission have been a source of joy, transformation and faithful service. This change in approach is not a reflection of a diminished commitment but an intentional effort to create a sustainable and authentic model for global ministry today and for tomorrow. This means creating a new form of ministry that will strengthen both the ecclesial and programmatic mission functions of the church.  

 The goal is to: 

  • Create a more missionally equitable and sustainable approach that honors the agency of global partners. 

  • Elevate the leadership of global partners in shaping ministry. 

  • Strengthen long-term partnerships through shared ministry models that reflect the evolving needs of the global church. 

 This is also taking place as part of the unification of the Office of the General Assembly and the Presbyterian Mission Agency, agencies that have previously held different roles in global and ecumenical work.  

Another is financial. The reality is, the current model was not financially sustainable. A significant portion of funding for mission co-workers has come from gifts restricted for sending and supporting individuals called to this work. Gifts for those accounts are on average $1 million less than has been budgeted for several years now. Making this change now will allow us to be engaged globally for years to come.  

There are some who argue that this goes against General Assembly actions. Is that accurate? 

The General Assembly’s CR-10 resolution (2024) has been carefully considered during this entire process. The new model retains funding for critical placement of PC(USA) leaders on the ground through the appointment and placement of global ecumenical liaisons, domestically and internationally. The shift also builds upon theological and missiological foundations outlined in Presbyterians Do Mission in Partnership (2003) and the Ecumenical Stance of the PC(USA) (2008).   

 How does this change impact World Mission staff? 

These changes will have an impact on all 79 world mission staff members, including some mission co-workers and those who have faithfully supported them. Staff have been informed that their service in its current form will conclude toward the end of March. Some have been offered salary and benefits packages appropriate for their years of service, consistent with our policies. Others have been invited to serve in new roles under this new model of global engagement.  

IUA leadership acknowledges and honors the deep commitment of our mission co-workers as well as the strong relationships that have been forged over the years. We recognize the grief, frustration, and uncertainty that many experience. We are learning from the past while making space for the work of the Holy Spirit to shape our future.  

Who are the individuals who will be impacted by this decision? 

World Mission staff are in a discernment period that will last through the end of March. Out of respect for that process and in compliance with employment laws, we are not disclosing specific names at this time. We recognize that this uncertainty is difficult. Once the discernment period is complete, we will share more information but only with the consent of the individuals involved. In the coming months, we will be holding an event to recognize, celebrate and give thanks for the ministry of colleagues who are ending service.  

Will the PC(USA) continue to have an international presence? 

YES!! The PC(USA) remains committed to a global presence in a new way for a new day, which is why the current approach, roles and responsibilities are being reshaped to align with present realities. The goal is to empower global and ecumenical partners while also continuing to equip Presbyterians for meaningful engagement in global ministry. We encourage you to read this “Shifting Patterns of Global Engagement” article for more on how global mission and ecclesial partnership are changing.  

Define what it means to be a Global Ecumenical Liaison. 

Global Ecumenical Liaisons will assist global partners, diaspora communities in the United States, mid councils, congregations, mission networks, national or regional PC(USA) programs, and local organizations. They will facilitate and encourage connections, relationships, and shared work in ministry and mission. 

For those who have financially supported the work of World Mission, where should that support be directed now? 

The PC(USA) remains committed to a global presence, so financial support remains critical moving forward. For years, the current funding model for mission co-workers has been unsustainable due to declining PC(USA) membership and its impact on mission giving, coupled with rising costs. Contributions to Account E132192 will sustain the work of the new global ecumenical liaisons. Mid councils and congregations are encouraged to reach out to their Ministry Engagement Advisor (MEA) for guidance in discerning their continued support for global mission. 

We also encourage supporters to stay engaged in mission partnerships and explore new ways to connect with global ministries.  

What happens to previous gifts given to Extra Commitment Opportunities (ECOs) designated in support of specific global partners, which have not yet been disbursed? 

The Interim Unified Agency’s commitment to global ecumenical partnerships, as well as the sharing of financial resources, remains the same. Within the new global engagement model, an ECO gift designated in support of a global partner or project will continue to be used in accordance with the ECOs’ designated purpose, our gift acceptance policy, our grant policy and operating procedures.  

 How will the PC(USA) remain grounded in its Reformed and Presbyterian values while engaging globally? 

Our mission remains rooted in our witness to Jesus Christ’s unconditional love and call to justice and our commitment to global partnerships. We continue to uphold our values of peace, racial and gender equity, theological diversity, and care for marginalized communities. The IUA is guided by the statements and policies of the PC(USA) General Assembly and in particular, the theological and missiological foundations outlined in Presbyterians Do Mission in Partnership (2003) and the Ecumenical Stance of the PC(USA) (2008).       

 This is a big change. We invite you to join us as we begin to live into this new opportunity this spring and summer.