Congregational Hearing Held

On Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 3:00pm the first congregational hearing was conducted at Riceville Presbyterian Church. The hearing was held in accordance with section IV B of the "Guidelines for Dismissal" published by the Presbytery of Western North Carolina.  Representatives from the PWNC's Committee on Ministry (COM) were Rev. James Aydelotte (moderator), Rev. Susan Denne, Elder Mary Lou Nash, Elder John Heilman and Elder Ron Tingle.  Speakers from Riceville alternated with speakers from COM.  Each speaker was given 5 minutes.  Following the scheduled speakers, the floor was opened up to any other members wishing to speak.  Five additional people from Riceville took the floor to have their words heard by all.  Two hymns were played by the accompanist and sung by all in attendance; "Christ is Made the Sure Foundation" and "The Church's One Foundation".  The COM provided handouts to all in attendance, which gave reasons that the church should consider remaining in the PC(USA).  The congregation provided the COM with 37 individual statements in writing that indicated why Riceville should be dismissed from the PC(USA).  There were no letters against dismissal.  The hearing concluded at approximately 4:20pm.