OF SPECIAL INTEREST

Barbara Kingsolver, in her book  Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, explores... the elaborate environmental cost of the global food chain. [She notes]... that the cheap and easy habits we take for granted — lettuce for salad all year round, strawberries in January — began as luxuries for the very rich. What her family did for a year, living off what they could grow and raise on the land around them, is the way most human beings have lived forever and many in the world still do... The way most Americans eat is elite in the extreme. This is hard to grasp, as the crops behind some of the cheapest, easiest staples of American life — including that ubiquitous high fructose corn syrup — are underwritten by government funding. The real costs of much of our food do not turn up itemized in our grocery bills, but hidden in our taxes. And then there are, of course, the environmental costs, harder still to see and calculate and that we confer as a debt to our children. Some people give up meat, Barbara Kingsolver says; she has given up bananas, no longer willing to live with the fossil fuel footprint that is necessary to bring them all the way to her in Virginia... They became focused in the most practical, daily way not on what they did not have, but on what they had — what was in season, what the garden was yielding plenty of today. It became, she says, a long exercise in gratitude.   From Barbara Kingsolver and The Ethics of Eating (Speaking of Faith, July 15, 2010) http://speakingoffaith.org/programs/2010/ethics-of-eating/emailnewsletter.shtml ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, Presbyterian Hunger Advisory Committee 7/26/10)

Everyone Is Invited to Vacation Bible School August 2-6, 2010, 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Covenant Presbyterian Church 5931 Swope Parkway, KCMO 64130. The theme is a Praise Party which is s a heritage-based Christian education curriculum that will have you celebrating the saving grace of Jesus Christ with head, heart, hands, feet, and SOUL! Through Bible study, crafts, skits, movement, contemporary music, and well-loved hymns and songs of the Church, Praise Party will create passionate worship that truly makes disciples for Jesus Christ. Schedule Monday, August 2 through Thursday, August 5, 2010: 5: 15 p.m. Dinner, 6:00 p.m. Opening, 6: 10 p.m. Crafts, Lessons, 6:35 p.m. Crafts Lessons, 7:00 p.m. Music, 7:25 p.m. Dance, 8:05 p.m. Closing Time, 8: 10 p.m. Dismiss. Friday we'll have WORSHIP AND PRAISE NIGHT AT 7 p.m. Dinner will be at 6 p.m. (Submitted by Brad Smith 7/26/10)


Two events sponsored by the Synod of Mid-America are happening this October.
new_pa1
A Community of Practice (CoP) Leadership Experience scheduled for Oct 13-15, 2010.  The
event will be hosted at V illage Presbyterian Church, Prairie Village KS and the SMA office. 

A “Healthy Congregations” workshop uses the insights of family systems theory to help church leaders and all members become more effective stewards of their congregations’s health.  This will be held October 14-15, 2010 at Southminster Presbyterian Church.  For more information on both of these events visit: www.synodma.org (Submitted by Kerry Lancaster 7/23/10)

 219 th General Assembly in brief: http://www.pcusa.org/get/resources/resource/6822/ (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/20/10)

Senior High Youth Retreat—“Face to Face: Relationships for the Soul” Saturday and Sunday, August 28 & 29, 2010. http://www.heartlandpby.org/upcoming/files/facetoface810.pdf (Submitted by Michelle Phillips 7/12/10)

Festival of Sharing : Youth groups can register online for the 2010 Festival of Sharing YouthFest. Please register early and if you will not need housing please be sure to let us know!  This really helps in planning.  Cost per person is $27.00. Register at http://www.umocm.com/page9/page27/page27.html If you have any questions or need additional information you can call the office of Creative Ministries /Festival of Sharing at 573-474-3332 or email festival@socket.net (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/20/10)

The second environmental justice-related overture approved at General Assembly was from the Presbytery of South Louisiana " On Making Resources Available Regarding Destruction and Loss of Coastal Wetlands".  It focuses on the issues surrounding wetlands loss in South Louisiana.  The rationale for this overture states that "a land mass equivalent to the size of the state of Delaware has been lost from the Louisiana coastline in the last seventy years due mainly to human-caused factor."  Read the overture .  (Adapted from  the Office of Environmental Ministry, "Eco-Blog").  ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, Stewardship of Creation Enabler 7/20/10)

The Missouri Long Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for the rights of residents living in nursing homes across the state. When the resident encounters an issue the ombudsman steps in to help the resident get resolution. Become a volunteer ombudsman and a voice, eyes and ears for residents in a nursing home in your area. Call the Missouri Long Term Care Ombudsman Program 1-800-309-3282 or go to www.dhss.mo.gov/Ombudsman and click on volunteer. (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/20/10)

 Oasis Mid-Central APCE regional Christian education event

We have an expert on special needs ministry in the church who will be presenting four workshops on Monday: God’s Amazing Spectrum From a Biblical and honoring perspective, gain a quick understanding of a variety of disability areas one may encounter in a fellow church member. Autism and Your Church Explore God’s pattern for "knitting in" those with Autism Spectrum Disorders and learn practical ideas for church inclusion. Respite Care Learn from the stories and techniques of trained and experienced respite caregivers how your church can enter into this important aspect of ministry. The Behavior Management Playing Field Is the behavior of the one jeopardizing the learning of the whole group? Spend some time learning many strategies to try with behavior management issues in children's church settings. Your idea tool box will be filled to over-flowing. Barbara Newman is a church and school consultant for CLC Network. She is a frequent national speaker and published author on inclusion of persons with special needs. For more information, contact Malinda Spencer, 816-923-5486. (Submitted by Malinda Spencer 7/15/10)

219 th General Assembly News: Check out www.heartlandpby.org for a Letter and FAQ’s. (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/12/10)

Senior High Youth Retreat—“Face to Face: Relationships for the Soul” Saturday and Sunday, August 28 & 29, 2010. http://www.heartlandpby.org/upcoming/files/facetoface810.pdf (Submitted by Michelle Phillips 7/12/10)

The Rev. Henry Gower wishes to thank the many clergy and elders who have sent such very nice notes and cards wishing him all the best in his new pastorate at Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in George, Iowa.  The many blessings and notes of encouragement are greatly and sincerely appreciated. (Submitted by Henry Gower 7/12/10)

Congratulations to the Village Presbyterian Church Youth Group: Two youth groups to receive $25,000 endowment funds. MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Presbyterian Foundation will establish a $25,000 endowment fund at each of the Presbyterian churches represented by these youth groups to provide on-going, financial support for their youth ministry programs. The two finalists were from the following churches: Calvary Presbyterian Church, Enumclaw, Wash.; Village Presbyterian Church, Prairie Village, Kan. The video challenge encouraged Presbyterian youth groups to creatively express their interpretation of John 7:38: "Out of the believer's heart shall flow rivers of living water," which was also the theme of this year's General Assembly. The youth groups then posted their videos on ymiLIVE's website . (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/12/10)

Benefits Connect Tip: Retired members who are receiving Pension Plan payments can use Benefits Connect to check their payment history. So register for Benefits Connect today! Just visit the Pensions.org homepage and click the “Register” button under the Benefits Connect logo. (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

2010 Salary Study : The median salaries and the dues minimums and maximums for 2011 and the Salaries in the Parish Ministry 2010 Salary Study with historical salary averages by Synod are now available on Pensions.org. (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

New Web Module for Personal Health Record : The Board has developed a Web module that highlights the benefits of the Personal Health Record (PHR), a convenient and secure health management tool from ActiveHealth Management. Reminder: To qualify for the $100 Health Stewardship Incentive*, visit MyActiveHealth.com/pcusa to launch your PHR, complete the Health Assessment, and then sign in to the site at least two more times on different days before July 31, 2010. Visit the PHR page on Pensions.org for details. *This incentive opportunity is only available to the primary member of the Highmark BCBS Medical Plan. Spouses, dependents, and all members in the Medicare Supplement Plan are not eligible. (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

Replays of the 2010 Regional Benefits Consultations: Replays of the plenary sessions from this year’s Regional Benefits Consultations, as well as the pre-conference workshop, are now available on the e-learning page of Pensions.org. (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

Updates to Retirement Savings Plan Adoption Agreements: It is important for church treasurers and business administrators to update their church or employing organizations’ Retirement Savings Plan of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Adoption Agreement  whenever they make any changes that affect the plan. If you have questions about the Adoption Agreement, please contact the Board at 800-773-7752 (800-PRESPLAN). (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

New Issue of Award-Winning EducationTalk Newsletter: Each season brings with it a new issue of EducationTalk . Find interesting news about the spiritual, vocational, financial, and health aspects of your life, all of which contribute to Stewardship of Self . (Submitted by Doug Kelly 7/7/10)

It’s your story! It’s our story! We have an amazing opportunity to share through a national television broadcast the story of Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s long term response to hurricane Katrina and the thousands of volunteers who have walked alongside the people of the Gulf Coast. But we need your help!

Learn more and a download a bulletin insert on the PDA website . (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/1/10)

HEARTLAND PRESBYTERY ROCKS AGAIN: Heartland Presbytery is listed in the Top Ten for basic mission support by total dollar amount. Check it out at http://home-test.pcusa.org/media/uploads/common/pdf/top-ten-2009_booklet.pdf . (Submitted by presbytery staff 7/1/10)

Check out an enlightening weekend at The Land Institute , Salina KS coming up September 24-26.  It is the annual Prairie Festival, which provides  education on environmental justice.  The purpose of the Land Institute is to develop an agricultural system with the ecological stability of the prairie and a grain yield comparable to that from annual crops.  2010 Prairie Festival Presenters include writer Wendell Berry, economist Josh Farley, ecologist Sandra Steingraber, Seed Savers Exchange co-founder Kent Whealy, and Land Institute president Wes Jackson.  Th is is an amazing opportunity! Check out the website for more information:  www.landinstitute.com .   ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, Earthkeepers 6/29/10)

Do You Have the Expertise? The Harold Thomas Center is in desperate need of someone with the knowledge and expertise of parking lot spacing to come and evaluate the current parking lot. If you can help, please contact Brian Hathhorn, 816.924.1730 or financials@heartlandpby.org . (Submitted by presbytery staff 6/29/10)

A Cool Opportunity: St. Mark Union Church, 1101 Euclid, Kansas City, Missouri has for forty years provided a wonderful summer program of Christian education, nurture and fellowship for the children and youth of its neighborhood and community. This summer the program is at risk. Not from a lack of participation, over 50 children and youth are already enrolled. The issue this summer is a failed air-conditioning unit that cools the space used for this valuable ministry. The unit is over twenty years old. The contractor has informed the church that a total replacement to a more modern and efficient system would cost as much as $65,000. The current system can be coaxed into another five to six years of service for about $10,000 in repairs. If the congregation cannot raise at least the $10,000 for repairs, the summer program will have to be shutdown as the temperatures begin to rise in July. Pastor Sam Mann and Executive Presbyter Charlie Spencer are asking individuals and sessions within Heartland Presbytery to consider and extra commitment gift to help this congregation maintain the long tradition and valuable ministry of this summer program. If you or your session need more information contact Sam Mann at (816) 842-5454 or the Presbytery Office at (816) 924-1730. Contributions may be made either directly to St. Mark Church or through the Presbytery, indicating that the gifts are for the St. Mark summer ministry AC campaign. (Submitted by Charles Spencer 6/29/10)

Haiti Relief and Recovery – By June, response by Presbyterians to the recovery efforts in Haiti passed $10 million. $4 million has already been committed to relief and recovery. We continue to assess needs and venues for long term recovery – including the possibility to begin hosting teams of mission volunteers by the end of the year. We are working carefully with partners to determine host sites where there is real need, a capacity for visitors and a context that will provide safe and meaningful experiences for participants. To learn more, visit the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance website . We are grateful for the commitment and generosity of so many Presbyterians! (Submitted by presbytery staff 6/22/10)

People Investing in People: For the past three years the Self-Development of People Committee has been engaged in intense and deliberate partnerships in the Dominican Republic.  The Committee partnered with groups of women working all over the country. Due to the hard work of the women the money invested in their endeavors was multiplied tenfold.  They now operate a highly functioning bakery with a store front from which they sell candy, cakes and bread; they have a cheese factory, cement brick factory, and a warehouse from which they can store goods and sell to community people.   They also make and sell beautiful hand-carved furniture.  We also assisted the bateys in bringing in clean water to over 8,000 people. The major emphasis of focused funding in the Dominican Republic ends in 2010.  The Committee is very pleased that we are leaving the Island in a much better position than we found it.  The stories of the women are heartwarming as they shared how their lives have greatly improved. This year Self-Development of People celebrates 40 years as a ministry of the Presbyterian Church USA.  Thanks to the generosity of Presbyterians who have contributed over $95 million we have been able to help economically poor, oppressed and disadvantaged people in 68 countries. This year and for the next three years the Self-Development National Committee will have as its domestic focus assisting economically poor people in the gulf coast, border communities, in and around the Detroit area and parts of the northeast.  Its major international focus will be Belize. Self-Development of People Middle Governing Body Committees continue to give grants to groups located within their geographical boundaries who are working toward self development.  This year they have given grants totaling over one million dollars. Thanks for your generous gifts to the One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS).  With these gifts Self-Development of People continues to work on your behalf around the world helping God's people in need.  Self-Development of People receives one third of the OGHS contribution to fund eligible ministries. The Committee welcomes proposals for consideration.  Information can be obtained from:  www.pcusa.org/sdop ,  Self-Development of People Presbyterian Church USA 100 Witherspoon St.  Louisville KY 40202-1396 or Toll Free (888) 728-7228. (Submitted by Josephine Njoroge, National Self-Development of People Committee, Midwest Task Force 6/23/10)

Highlights from the June 15, 2010 Stated Meeting of Heartland Presbytery are available at http://www.heartlandpby.org/files%20misc/HighlightsfromPresbytery06152010.pdf (Submitted by presbytery staff 6/21/10)

Online registration for Oasis (October 24-26, Excelsior Springs) mid-central regional event is at www.churchresourcecenter.org   View/print the brochure and register via PayPal.  Scholarship application materials for Heartland Presbytery may be downloaded as well. (Submitted by Malinda Spencer 6/21/10)

During and after time of crisis, it is very difficult to find the right path. A fog seems to set in, obscuring our vision.  We may become reactionary, may blame others, and stray from our inner sense of wisdom.  In this time of the Gulf crisis, we must contemplate and find new direction, working toward action rather than reaction.  We need to look at our own lives to see where we might refocus.  Thomas Berry, a writer and historian who worked diligently to seek Earth-justice, wrote, "The great work of our time is to become integral with the entire family of life". (The Great Work). This could easily translate in become more energy sustainable and just in our daily lives.  Let us pray and work for vision and guidance, seeking social, ecological, and economic justice. ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, Stewardship of Creation Enabler, Heartland Presbytery 6/21/10) 

Young Adult Volunteers Needed: The cities that still have space for Young Adult Volunteers are:  Atlanta, Miami, Denver, New Orleans, San Antonio and Cincinnati. In Atlanta, we still have placements for people interested in serving the homeless or working in a multicultural church. New Orleans has room for people who want to continue with disaster relief from Katrina and they have a new position around environmental advocacy in regards to the oil spill. San Antonio has positions for folks interested in working with refugees and the Latino population. I'm not sure the exact positions available in Miami and Denver. Cincinnati has positions in urban churches. The process for applying is to go to www.pcusa.org/yav and fill out a One Door Interest form. There is also a facebook page for the YAV program, if folks want to get information that way. (Submitted by Karen Turney 6/21/10)

Responding to spring flooding Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is responding to flooding that has affected Kentucky and Tennessee. One Great Hour of Sharing [http://www.pcusa.org/oghs/] funds have been provided to help with immediate needs related to the flooding, and members of the PDA National Response Team are working with the Presbytery and PC(USA) congregations, planning long-term recovery efforts. Volunteer work teams and clean up buckets are needed here and in other locations. Find out how you can help (Submitted by presbytery staff 6/14/10)

PCUSA Retirees To Meet in Minneapolis, MN: The 14 th annual convention of the Association of Retired Ministers, Their Spouses or Survivors is being held at the Ramada Mall of America in suburban Bloomington, Minnesota September 9-12, 2010. Registration fee before August 17 is $125, after $175 plus a $20 membership fee if you are not currently a member of ARMSS. Special room rate at the Ramada Mall of America is $92 per night, double occupancy. For more information or to register email gnyhuis@verizon.net or mail ARMSS, PO Box 700311, Oostburg, WI 53070. Locally more information is available from Rev. Dennis Haines djhaines41@att.net or via mail at 2800 S Woodbury Drive, Independence, MO 64055. (Submitted by Dennis Haines 6/3/2010)

Deacons come join us at a Deacon Retreat on: Saturday, September 11, 2010, From 9:30am to 4:30pm. Stephany Jackson from PCUSA will be our guest speaker. A Continental Breakfast and Lunch will be provided. Cost: $20.00 Registration Deadline is August 15, 2010. Register online at: firstpreschurch@gmail.com or Send number of how many will attend and check to: First Presbyterian Church, 138 N Main St, Liberty, MO 64068. If you have any questions please call the church office (816) 781-6528. We are looking forward to learning and sharing with you. (Submitted by Carolyn Wallis 6/1/10)

GET SIGNED UP TODAY! Mission Trip to Guatemala—October 29-November 5, 2010. Have you always wanted to go to Guatemala with Heartland Presbytery? If so, let this year be the year! Check out our brochure and application form. http://www.heartlandpby.org/upcoming/files/2010MayaQuicheTripBrochure.pdf http://www.heartlandpby.org/upcoming/files/2010FallTripApplicationForm.doc (Submitted by presbytery staff 5/17/10)

There is a celebration coming up in Louisville, KY on Nov 3 - 11, 2010 which sounds very intriguing.  It is sponsored by the Center for Interfaith Relations and is Called Festival of Faiths.  The theme is Sacred Soil:  Foundation of Life.  The theme will focus on the role soil plays within each faith's history, theology, music missions, etc.  It will include workshops, lectures, concerts, films, art exhibits, booths and more.  For more information check out the website: www.festivaloffaiths@interfaithrelations.org or call 502-583-3100. ( Submitted by Diane Waddell 5/24/10)

Our prayers continue to go out to all those who have been adversely affected by the oil spill disaster in the Gulf Coast .  We also hold in our hearts and prayers the beautiful gifts of God's creation in the form of animals, plants and the water itself which are being drastically affected.  This is a time to especially reflect upon how we might also continue (or begin to) simplify our consumptive lifestyles and look for ways to become much more sustainable.  We are grateful for churches, individuals, and communities which have begun this vital journey. ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, Earthkeepers and Stewardship of Creation Enabler, Heartland Presbytery 5/14/10)

The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is providing you the opportunity to earn a $100 Health Stewardship Incentive and to take charge of your health! Earn Your $100 Incentive! To earn the Health Stewardship incentive – a prepaid debit card for IRS tax-qualified healthcare expenses – follow the steps below: 

  1. Go to www.MyActiveHealth.com/pcusa and create your private account. This launches your secure and confidential Personal Health Record (PHR). 
  2. Complete the Health Assessment (This usually takes about 15 minutes.) 
  3. Sign in to the MyActiveHealth.com/pcusa Web site at least two more times on different days before July 31, 2010. 

That’s it! You’re on your way, and so is your incentive! Your incentive should arrive in the mail about three weeks after you complete step 3.  We’re sorry, but this incentive opportunity is only available to the primary member of the Highmark BCBS Medical Plan; spouses, dependents, and all members in the Medicare Supplement Plan are not eligible.
Launch Your Personal Health Record Do you find it difficult to keep track of your family’s medical history? Or know the recommended preventive care screenings for you or your dependents? In April, the Board of Pensions introduced MyActiveHealth.com/pcusa, a secure health management Web site that includes a Personal Health Record (PHR), and it can help you do just that. When you launch your PHR, it automatically populates with claims data from Highmark, Express Scripts, and Quest Diagnostics. Maintaining your PHR is an easy way to organize your health history and your family’s and keep it at your fingertips. If you have questions about the incentive, please see our list of most Frequently Asked Questions or call the Board of Pensions at 800-773-7752 (800-PRESPLAN). If you have technical questions about the PHR or the Health Assessment, please call ActiveHealth at 888-803-7434. If you would like to know a little more about our health management programs, visit Pensions.org/HealthManagement (Submitted by presbytery staff 5/17/10)

Music 4 Jeremy’s Cherubs Foundation collects, reconditions, and donates gently used musical instruments to needy students in the Greater Kansas City area.  We currently have a Baldwin “Fanfare” Model 132 (1976) home organ and bench in excellent shape looking for a new home.  This organ would be ideal in a number of venues including chapels or homes.  Arrangements can be made for delivery within the Heartland Presbytery.  For more information, contact hfrye@bakeru.edu or visit the M4JC website at www.music4jeremyscherubs.org . (Submitted by Harold Frye 4/28/10)

An appeal for help:   Argentine Church has need of a new layer of gravel in the parking area.  We are able to have the rock delivered, but we have no way of spreading it (save by the shovelful).  Is there anyone out there with a Bobcat who could donate a bit of time to come by and spread it for us?  The area is not large.  Thanks for your consideration.  Please call Steve Christine, 913-302-7664. (Submitted by Donna Chavez 4/22/10)

Do you know a congregation, camp, youth group or Vacation Church School that’s planning to print T-shirts? Please share with them the good news of Sweat-Free Ts – shirts made by a cooperative, not a sweatshop – available from the PC(USA). Sweat-Free Ts come from the Nueva Vida sewing cooperative in Nicaragua, which began as an economic development initiative in the wake of Hurricane Mitch through the Presbyterian Hunger Program.  Shirts can be ordered from Presbyterian Distribution Service online or by phone . (Phone number is 1-800-524-2612. They are blank with only the Sweat-Free T logo printed in black on the sleeve; groups are free to screen print, tie-dye or otherwise creatively imprint the shirts with their own logo or design.  Shirts are available in 100% organic cotton that feels great.  Colors are White, Natural and Presbyterian Blue.  Sizes range from Child Small to Adult 3XL. Get educational materials .  Thanks for helping spread the Good News!  (Written by Melanie Hardison of the Enough for Everyone Project, PHP). ( Submitted by Diane Waddell, PHP Advisory Committee Member 4/26/10)

Free Organ. We are looking for a good home for a beautiful home organ from an estate.  If interested, please call Janice Kivett at 785-272-5592 or email at jkk3@cox.net .  Allen Organ 157.  Identical to "Carousel 157, but in a theater style console. Excellent quality; Allen brand known to hold its tone well. Retail price in January 1971 "Consumer Bulletin" was $5995. Horseshoe console, two 61-note manuals, 32 pedals. Stop tablets under the catergories of "pedal, accompaniment, special, presets, and solo." Detached bench. Approximate Console Dimensions:  Height 44 1/2 inches, Width 52 1/2 inches, Depth 29 3/4 inches...but with pedalboard and bench is 50 inches. Organ is currently located in Indepencence MO. (Submitted by Janice Kivett 4/26/10)

Benefits Connect is your go-to source for personalized benefits information! Join the thousands of plan members who have already taken advantage of this convenient site by clicking on the “Register” button under the Benefits Connect logo on the Pensions.org homepage . You can update your personal and dependent information, get a pension estimate, calculate your total death benefits, and much more. Register today! (Submitted by Doug Kelly 4/16/10)

Administrative Fee for Retirement Savings Plan To Be Charged A fee of $3.75 per quarter will be charged by Fidelity on accounts of participants in the Retirement Savings Plan of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), a 403(b)(9) plan. The first deduction will be made on October 1, 2010. If you have questions about this new quarterly administrative fee, please see the Frequently Asked Questions or contact the Board at 800-773-7752 (800-PRESPLAN). (Submitted by Doug Kelly 4/16/10)

Presbyterians for Earth Care wants to share about bottled water. Annie Leonard, who previously brought us the online "The Story of Stuff" has made a new fast-paced online film that tackles bottled water.  "The Story of Bottled Water" outlines how consumption of bottled water went from something considered laughable (as it costs as much as 2000 times the amount of tap water) to such a high-demand product that the US consumes a half a billion bottles of water each week. The film is a great primer in many issues related to bottled water, including the justice aspect of where our bottles are sent to be recycled.  (Leonard found that some of these bottles that we stick in our recycling bins are actually shipped to India, and instead of being recycled, they end up becoming a waste problem for India to deal with.) Watch "The Story of Bottled Water" and learn more about issues surrounding bottled water from the Presbyterians for Earth Care's bottled water campaign.  PEC also has a bottled water pledge that you can sign. Pledge not to drink bottled water unless the tap water in your area is truly unsafe, and share your knowledge with friends and family, who may not realize that producing bottles for bottled water for US consumption uses enough oil each year to fuel one million cars. Written by Katie Holmes, (PCUSA Environmental Ministries Office); (Submitted by Diane Waddell, Restoring Creation Enabler 4/12/10)

FREE ORGAN: Church member would like to give away a Yamaha Electone organ, Model 305D-1, to any church that would pick it up.   It is in very good condition.   Please e-mail or call: The Reverend John R. Johnson, United Christian Presbyterian Church, 501 N. Spartan Dr., Richmond, MO  64085, Office: (816) 776-6494 (Submitted by John Johnson 3/25/10)

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance responding in Haiti – Through the great outpouring of prayer, love and financial support by individuals, congregations, presbyteries, and synods – and thanks to the special appeals made by so many mission networks and organizations – Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is providing critical, on-the-ground support when and where it is needed the most.  As God’s people we are called to stand in the “GAP” — GIVE. ACT. PRAY.  Read situation updates and find information on how you can get involved by visiting the PDA Web site . (Submitted by presbytery staff 2/22/10)

Pastors or seminarians needing Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).  The Kansas City VA Hospital is offering a summer unit.  The advantage of CPE at the VA is that it is free. The Fall extended unit will begin on August 17 and run to January 1, 2011. Point of contact for the CPE units is Chaplain Paula Gold 816.861.4700 ext 5-2181. Address is 4801 Linwood Blvd, KCMO 64128. (Submitted by Jeffrey S. Mercer 2/8/10)

Disaster relief head gives thanks for donations, outlines next Haiti steps Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Coordinator Randy Ackley has recorded a video message for Presbyterians, thanking them for their support for PDA’s relief efforts in Haiti and outlining the next steps in the PC(USA)’s response to the devastating earthquake that killed more than 100,000 Haitians on Jan. 12. The video was accompanied by an updated PDA “situation report” on the disaster and PDA’s response to date. The video link and full text of the report from PDA: , Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (Submitted by presbytery staff 2/1/10)

New Free Resource: "50 Ways to Increase Worship Attendance" An addition to the Lewis Center's popular 50 Ways to Build Strength series is " 50 Ways to Increase Worship Attendance " prepared by Dr. Robert Crossman, minister of new church starts and congregational advancement for the Arkansas Conference of the United Methodist Church. Suggestions include ways to improve attendance of current members, to invite new people, to make your church visible and attractive, to welcome worship guests warmly, to make worship accessible to newcomers, and to follow up with visitors. To see resources available on all topics, go to 50 Ways to Build Strength . The Parish Paper also has free, practical resources on evangelism, church finances (another common concern), pastor's stress and evaluation (COM concerns) and other topics:  http://www.theparishpaper.com/free-resources (Submitted by presbytery staff 1/29/10)

Recycling Again! Harold Thomas Center. Feel free to bring paper, including phone books, cans, and plastic.  Check the items accepted at http://www.deffenbaughindustries.com/pdfs/Deffenbaugh%20Recycling%20Guidelines.pdf . We appreciate your help in making our quota. (Submitted by Malinda Spencer 1/11/10)

The latest monthly columns by the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly and the Vice Moderator of the 218 th General Assembly are now online at www.pcusa.org/oga . (Submitted by presbytery staff 11/9/09)

Cherith Brook has created a Women's Only Day, on the last Wednesday of each month. Contact us by phone or email cherithbrookkcmo@yahoo.com so that we can give you all the details www.cherithbrookkc.blogspot.com (Submitted by Sarah Cool 3/20/09)

PRESBYTERIAN DISASTER ASSISTANCE UPDATES (PDA) http://www.pcusa.org/pda/

All items listed on this page were included in previous editions of the Heartland Connection.

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