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Vacation Bible School project helps hungry neighbors in Illinois

First Presbyterian Church of Monticello, Illinois is not a large church, but it has a big heart. Over its 175-year history church members have always given back to the community says Pastor Paul Spangler. But a few years ago, the church tried something different for Vacation Bible School and the results proved beneficial for many residents in the small town as well as the church itself.

Office of Public Witness calls on Presbyterians to participate in fall event in Washington

The Presbyterian Mission Agency’s Office of Public Witness is calling on Presbyterians across the denomination to come to Washington D.C. this fall to speak out on the proposed federal budget. Church members, presbyteries and synods are being asked to gather on September 12 for a budget briefing, press conference and a visit to congressional offices.

Washington nonprofit shows strength in empowering low-income housing residents

Low income residents and immigrant communities in the Washington, D.C. area are getting help from a local non-profit, supported in part by the Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People. ONE DC is working to improve social and economic equity by organizing, training and educating housing residents in Shaw and the District.

Helping people help themselves keeps one volunteer inspired and motivated

Wesley Woo spent years on the staff of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) During this time, he developed a keen interest in the work of the Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People (SDOP), but because he was on staff, he could not serve on the committee.

Rural farming community in India becomes organic farming model

Rural farmers in India are celebrating the certification of Udaipur’s Gati Village as Rajasthan’s first fully organic farming community. The designation will allow Gati to market its crops and products internationally. Nearly 300 farm families are covered by the designation as they seek to market major crops which include wheat and corn.

International Peacemaker to share Palestinian experience this fall

Presbyterian churches and institutions will have the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of what it is like to be a hometown refugee. Nora Arsenian Carmi is one of at least 15 individuals who will be visiting Presbyterian churches, mid-councils and other institutions this fall as part of the 2017 International Peacemakers.

Presbyterian churches to be celebrated for hunger work

For nearly 50 years, the Presbyterian Hunger Program (PHP) has worked with Presbyterians and global partners towards the common goal of ending hunger and poverty. Now PHP is expanding that to recognize congregations involved in hunger work through a covenant called Hunger Action Congregations.

Managing editor hired for Christian social justice journal, Unbound

Unbound, the online social justice journal of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is getting a new editor. Henry Koenig Stone has been selected to helm the award-winning journal, sponsored by the Advisory Committee on Social Witness Policy (ACSWP).