Ruling Elder Pete Peterson (Clinton), Co-Moderator of the Administration and Coordinating Team gave reason for celebration in the Presbytery’s fourth anniversary, as the Presbytery’s giving far exceeded expectations. Because of the 2021 transition, a gradually declining deficit has been planned for; for 2024, that anticipated deficit was $61,000. Thanks to the generosity of our churches, that deficit proved to be only $20,000, a savings of $41,000. Per Capita contributions were $25,000 more than budgeted, plus $3000 more in missional giving.

Pete also introduced Susan Johnson as the Presbytery’s new Financial Administrator. Susan is a life-long New Jersey resident, a member of the Community Presbyterian Church of Chester, and someone with long experience in financial administration. You can reach her at financeadmin@highlandspresbyterynj.org with questions or to send your greetings.

The Presbytery then celebrated the long and indispensible ministry of Liz Hutchinson, whose nineteen years as the Presbytery’s Financial Administrator conclude at the end of March. Presbytery Treasurer Becky Moody (Madison) shared comments from many who worked with, and benefited from, Liz’s expertise and gracious spirit. With the assistance of Liz’s husband, the Presbytery was able to present her with a gift of appreciation in real time.

Following all of the well wishes, Presbytery Leader Jeanne Radak updated the Presbytery on the Discernment Process, beginning with the aforementioned Vocation Statement. A last retreat is planned for finalizing the report, before discussion and vote at the hybrid May 13 Presbytery meeting (Zoom and Camp Johnsonburg).

Stated Clerk Steve Shussett opened the formal process of voting on proposed amendments to the Book of Order. He noted that following the General Assembly, there are proposed amendments to the Book of Order, and other matters which require approval by a majority of the 166 presbyteries Out of the 226th General Assembly in 2024, there are a total of twelve amendments and one ecumenical agreement for all presbyteries to consider.

Steve thanked Ruling Elders Craig Barth (Morristown) and Alec Jain (Morris Plains), and Teaching Elders Rich Gelson (formerly of Pilgrim, and now in the Presbytery of Northeast New Jersey), and Robin Palmer Burton (Highlands) for their important service to the Presbytery. Not only did they serve as commissioners to General Assembly, but they made recommendations on concurrences before the Assembly, and more recently met to offer their recommendations on the matters coming before the Presbytery this year. Ruling Elder and Teaching Elder Commissioners to the Presbytery were reminded that the Presbytery will be electing Commissioners to the 2026 General Assembly in Milwaukee, and encouraged their prayerful discernment as to whether they are called to that vital role. Information will be forthcoming.

Of the thirteen items to be voted upon, all but 24-A and 24-C were placed before the Presbytery for action. Of the remaining eleven, only 24-L, concerning the paid or unpaid nature of administrative leave, was voted against. Because of the complexities involved in each of these matters, those wishing to learn more about any of the amendments, including 24-A and 24-C which are up for a vote in May, are encouraged to go here. Voting report totals from across the denomination, as of the end of March, can be found here.

Following reports from other guests and speakers (found below), the meeting’s business was concluded. As for its four faithful years as Highlands Presbytery, that is best celebrated by living into its fifth and future years just as faithfully.