Presbytery Report

At Indian Nations Presbytery’s June 7th Stated Meeting in Pauls Valley, commissioners gathered around tables and engaged in robust conversation about ongoing work envisioning the creation of a single, statewide Oklahoma Presbytery.

Commissioners discussed these questions, and came up with these ideas:

How might an Oklahoma Presbytery further the Kingdom of God?

• Present our distinction from the dominant religious culture; Support/Present alternative; Reach out to the margins

• Compile shared and common expectations by congregations and those in the pews.

What is the purpose/function of a Presbytery? What would you like to see a Presbytery do?

• Ordain pastors, support seminarians, Educating elders/CREs, Great Ends of the Church

• Resource for churches; Provide support, guidance to congregations; role model to congregations; Connecting churches with the larger Church; Polity guidance

• Communication. Provide a compelling vision of needs. Motivate churches. Be clear about identity.

• Networking -- Christian education/youth programs/music/preaching

• Accountability: From INP to church and vice-versa

• Remind congregations of our unity & that we are all one church, not small vs large

• Research why churches are closing

• Utilize virtual offices and support

• Focus on advertising/marketing

• Explore the idea of a multi-site church

• Help with insurance, utilities, Pulpit Supply; funding for audio-visual equipment; repeat $5,000 checks for ministry purposes?

• Organize “pew supply” visits to other churches

• Challenge, educate, organize, supply congregations to meet unique needs in their communities as the church. What is the role of the church in the community?

• Serve as a multilanguage resource hub that everyone can access no matter how big or small, rural or urban.

• Leadership training for Korean churches

• Adaptive Leadership Training -- “What is the adaptive question facing churches?”

• Try something. If it doesn’t work, try something different.

• Foster interchurch relationships, YADS

• New Presbytery Staff: “Ministry Coordinator” to help coordinate/schedule Pulpit Supply, Communion, and help with resources. Pay Pulpit Supply fees and/or mileage?

Other questions?

• What is the proposed structure of an Oklahoma Presbytery? Staffing? Office(s)?

• What are the new power dynamics? Balance of power and duties? Will there be a transition group?

• What are the goals/objectives in this process? What’s essential vs. most important?

• What is the role of the Synod of the Sun and General Assembly in this process?

On August 9th, commissioners from Cimarron, Eastern Oklahoma and Indian Nations Presbyteries will meet at First Presbyterian Church in Norman to consider two motions. The motions to be considered, which will begin the process of constructing a new Presbytery, affirm that Indian Nations Presbytery formally commits to joining Cimarron and Eastern Oklahoma Presbyteries in constructing and creating a new Oklahoma Presbytery, and, as a sign of unity and commitment, INP will meet with Cimarron and Eastern Oklahoma Presbyteries in joint meetings going forward. Should the three presbyteries agree, the matter will then be considered by the Synod of the Sun, and the General Assembly will vote on the one presbytery at its 2026 meeting. Full integration of the new Oklahoma Presbytery would occur on January 1, 2027.

Attending the August 9th meeting in Norman will be Rev. Tony Larson, Co-Moderator of the General Assembly, and the Rev. Dr. Sallie Watson, Interim Associate Director for Mid-Council Relations. Watson was executive of the Synod of the Southwest at a time when presbyteries in New Mexico were considering a consolidation plan.