Washburn named interim editor of Presbyterians Today

PC(USA) pastor and long-time PT contributor brings passion for communications

by Gregg Brekke | Presbyterian News Service

Sue Washburn—Photo provided

The Rev. Sue Washburn has been named interim editor of Presbyterians Today, the award-winning bi-monthly magazine of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) She joins the staff following the departure of former editor, the Rev. Patrick Heery, who accepted a pastoral call at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Auburn, New York.

Washburn is an award-winning journalist and part-time pastor of Reunion Presbyterian Church in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. She has written for Presbyterians Today for over ten years and served as a communicator for churches, presbyteries and other non-profit groups.

“I love sharing the great things our PC(USA) churches are doing—whether it’s at the local or national level,” says Washburn. “Sometimes in the midst of decline we fail to see the good news that is all around us. I hope that Presbyterians Today can highlight the faithful and innovative work that our congregations are doing for Christ.”

Washburn says she believes sharing the good news of Christ and the good work of our churches is a joy, not just a job, adding, “Churches have always been in the communication business.”

“Because I’m pastor of a small church in addition to being an editor, I understand the challenges that so many of our congregations are facing,” she says. “I know the fear and despair that can infect congregations that long for the days when the sanctuary was fuller. But I’m also a witness to the faithfulness of God, who promises never to leave us or forsake us. I hope that Presbyterians Today can be a celebration of the way that Christ is working in our midst.”

“We’re very excited to welcome Sue as interim editor of Presbyterians Today,” says PT publisher Jeffrey Lawrence. “Not only is she a great writer and editor, but she’s also a pastor, so she brings a deep knowledge of the church and a wonderful pastoral sense. I’m really looking forward to working with her.”

Lawrence expects Washburn’s interim duties to last at least through 2016, noting she will spend 20-25 hours each week working on the magazine, along with overseeing the blog and social media related to the magazine.

Washburn holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.Div. from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She and her family live near Pittsburgh.