GA06030

'A light in the world'

Executive Director-elect shares vision

by Shane Whisler

BIRMINGHAM, June 16 — Linda Bryant Valentine, the executive director-elect of the General Assembly Council (GAC), shared her experience and vision with members of the Mission Coordination and Budgets Committee and responded to their questions Friday afternoon at the 217th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

"A light in the world," she said when asked by a committee member what she would draw as an image of the PC(USA) in the future.

Before responding to questions, Valentine summarized her experience leading complex and multi-party projects for large businesses and organizations, saying it would serve her well if confirmed as the denomination’s chief executive officer.

However, she was quick to point out the primary difference between the business world and the PC(USA) is that, "Christ alone is head of the church."

Valentine, a lifelong Presbyterian and member of Fourth Presbyterian Church in Chicago, was elected at a special GAC meeting on May 23 to become the council’s next executive director. The Mission Coordination committee will hold open hearings Saturday before taking action on item 08-15 on recommending her to be affirmed by the General Assembly.

A vibrant and connected church is at the top of the list of what she envisions for the denomination.

"The churches that are most alive are the ones that see mission cannot be done by proxy," she said, referring to former moderator Rick Ufford-Chase’s report Thursday night.

She said good business practices, including communication, coupled with hands-on mission work are the elements that can help pull the denomination out of a downward spiral and decline.

A committee member affirmed her concern about communicating with people in the pew, but asked how it would happen.

"There is no magic answer," Valentine said, acknowledging it is difficult for people to discern the mission of the denomination with so many competing messages.

She cited a survey that revealed that many members cannot articulate the mission of the PC(USA). Rather than only seeing that as a problem, she sees it as an opportunity to build the denomination through greater awareness and support.

That support will come in part in the form of staff in Louisville and middle-governing bodies listening, responding and partnering with congregations. She said that describes another part of her vision for the denomination.

"I see Presbyterians joined together to witness to Christ in the world," she said.

Valentine added that the stunning gift of $150 million for church growth and theological education from Stanley W. Anderson of Colorado will greatly expand the avenues for Presbyterian witness.