Session Update - August 2026

September 20, 2026
Session Highlights - August 2026 update

 

At the August meeting of the Session, several important decisions regarding the approaching pastoral transition were made.
  • Contract with Rev. Michael Parker for 10 hours per week (9.1.26-12.31.26) for periodic pulpit supply, serving as Moderator of Session and head of staff support.
  • Pastoral covenant to encourage ending the pastoral relationship between Rev. Rice and First Presbyterian Church, Wooster, beginning 9.1.2026, following his retirement on 8.31.2026 when his salary and benefits will cease.
  • Schedule of pulpit supply pastors until 12.31.2026 was shared.
  • Current Session members will welcome visiting pastors and give morning announcements at upcoming worship services.
  • Motion from Faith and Worship Coordinating Team was approved, authorizing Lisa Rumbaugh to administer the sacrament of communion on 11.1.2026 and any other time that a minister of word and sacrament is not available. Lisa has completed communion training offered by Muskingum Valley Presbytery.
 
Session learned of the impact of a recent water leak from the ice machine in the main kitchen, resulting in significant water invasion to Bruch Hall, the Gathering area and the lower levels below. Water removal and drying happened quickly and now we are in the phase of replacement. Insurance estimates have been received and a team has been formed to gather information about floor covering replacement. Updates to the congregation will be shared when more information is obtained.
 
We celebrated the recent baptisms of Macy and Anna Pagel, daughters of Jenna and Kyle Pagel.
 
Updates from coordinating teams were heard. Faith and Worship is utilizing a Worship Planning Form to coordinate all of the many parts of a worship service. We are thankful for the people who are willing to participate in worship. Faith and Nurture team shared the calendar of upcoming events which encourage welcome and community for all. Amy Baxstrom reported about a recent Youth Leadership Retreat where eleven youth discussed their goals for learning  and being engaged in mission. Look for the upcoming FPC Café on Sunday mornings, beginning September 13. Kim Ogle agreed to be a Session representative to Faith and Practice Team. Jack Rogers summarized the many projects currently being tackled by the Faith and Structure Team.
 
Session thanked Rev. David Rice for his pastoral leadership and care of this congregation over the past twelve years. Best wishes for his retirement were shared with him.
 
Please contact any Session member (names and contact information is available in the Church Office) or Lisa Rumbaugh, Clerk of Session (sessionclerk@firstpreswooster.org) if you have questions or would like to have a conversation. Minutes from Session meetings are available for viewing in the Gathering Area.
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First Presbyterian Church of Wooster

First Presbyterian Church of Wooster
621 College Avenue Wooster, OH 44691
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