Those of us who live in the United States are living in times of anxiety, division and incredible opportunity. In This issue writers were asked to reflect on their ministries in these times with the lens of Joyful Advent Hope. As beautifully different as we each are, those voices shine light into the many ways God is at work among us and through us in these times. As the articles came in a second theme emerged: the marvelous work of God on our college campuses. Take note of inspiring happenings at Rhodes College, Maryville College and Stillman College. Joyful Hope Indeed! AND, if you would like to be a roving reporter for the Virtual Voice to keep us all informed of how God is working in your presbytery, contact [email protected]. We aren’t complete without your voices!
Our Synod Executive, Greg Goodwiller speaks to the unique nature of each presbytery within our synod.
Our Synod Moderator, Ann Laird Jones reflects on her congregation’s experience of renewal through focusing on our confessional heritage using our Glory to God hymnal.
Althea Jerome reflects on Westminster Presbyterian Church in Hattiesburg Mississippi’s experience of nurturing the faith of one young woman who is now a candidate at Austin Seminary.
Alexandra Hutson, herself a graduate of Maryville College, shares reflections from her interview with that College’s new chaplain, Jessica Lewis.
Beatrice Weil shares stories of an exciting interfaith luncheon series at Rhodes College called “Food, Faith and Free Elections” and how the series is fostering new depths of relationship and understanding.
Dr. Joseph Scrivner shares an inspiring essay on the history and ongoing empowerment of students of historic Stillman College.
Pastor Kim Vanbrimmer shares the experience of how a church workday created unexpected community at Orange Beach Presbyterian.
Scott Sanderson, our roving Reporter from Transylvania Presbytery, offers an opinion piece on the path to unity post-election.
Steve Young, from Living Waters for the World, shares news of new partnerships and continued life giving hope in Haiti and around the world.
Cindy Fisher of the Presbyterian Home for Children in Talladega, AL, shares exciting new initiatives the are bringing joyful hope to children and families in their care.
Eugenia Gamble offers a free 30-day downloadable devotional centering on Becoming a Healing Force.