Presbyterians Today to publish under new schedule, add two columns

Timetable to follow cycle of church year

by Gregg Brekke | Presbyterian News Service

LOUISVILLE – The Rev. Susan Washburn, interim editor of Presbyterians Today, says the periodical is looking forward to a few changes in the new year as it seeks to more effectively engage readers and celebrate the good news of Christ’s work in the people and churches of the PC(USA).

The award-winning magazine will still be published six times a year, however, a new schedule was chosen to better connect to what is happening in churches.

“We are changing to a publication schedule that is closer to the liturgical year than the calendar year,” says Washburn. “We hope to provide content that reflects what people in churches are thinking about in regard to worship and programs.”

Presbyterians Today is also introducing two new columns: Bible Explorations: Holy Troublemaking and Journey to a New World.

Written by Chip Hardwick, director of Theology, Formation and Evangelism for the PC(USA), Holy Troublemaking is a Bible-based study of the work of the prophets and will explore how we can faithfully follow in the prophets’ footsteps. Each of the columns will feature a brief Bible study and questions for sessions or other small groups to consider.

The Journey to a New World column is inspired by the stories immigrants and refugees have shared as they have joined PC(USA) congregations.

“The stories of hardship and hope are incredible to hear,” Washburn says. “During the Christmas season we remember that Mary and Joseph had to take Jesus and flee their country in the face of political persecution. That story reflects the lives of many who come to the United States, some for the very same purpose of creating a better life for their children.”

Articles from the January/February 2017 issue of Presbyterians Today, which addresses issues of aging, can be found online at presbyterianmission.org/ministries/today/. Other 2017 issues will explore new trends in worship in time for Easter, take a look at how churches are responding to the opioid crisis and offer suggestions for engaging Christian education for August. Presbyterians Today will continue its Spotlight section that focuses on the work of individual churches and communities.

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To share the work Christ is doing in your congregation, send a brief description and photos to editor@pcusa.org.