Presbyterian Mission Agency south presbyterian church of rochester ny Archives

‘This is just a change in where we are needed’

Posted March 27th, 2020

As churches, worshiping communities and their leaders continue to grapple with the spread of COVID-19, some are finding ways to live into their commitment to the Matthew 25 invitation.

‘Put us where you want us, and show us what to do’

Posted October 25th, 2019

A congregation without a building but with a proven record of innovation for serving the Rochester, New York, community — especially those living in the city’s margins — has accepted the Matthew 25 invitation.

Congregation thrives — without a building

Posted July 26th, 2017

After 170 years on Mount Hope Avenue in Rochester, New York, South Presbyterian Church voted to sell its historic building on Easter Sunday 2014, a day chosen by the congregation for its symbolism of resurrection.

Vital Congregations

Posted December 8th, 2016

South Presbyterian Church of Rochester, N.Y., is full of energy and vitality, which has not always been the case. Under the faithful, intentional leadership of Pastor Deb Swift, the church made the painful decision to sell their building. Even though it is beautiful, the building had become a burden for this small, declining church. Through New Beginnings, attending our Evangelism conferences, and the church’s heart to be on mission, the leadership of the church made the decision to sell their building without knowing where they would worship.