The pastors of four congregations in western Pennsylvania have formed what they call the nation's first ministry network for mutual support, encouragement and joint ministry based on the documents of the New Wineskins Initiative.
The network also has prepared what it calls a "Ministry Network Development Strategy" that may serve as a blueprint for other congregations considering forming such a network, as well as a covenant that participating congregations sign.
All four churches are members of Pittsburgh Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church (USA). The Rev. Dr. Richard G. Wolling, a spokesman for the network, said the churches that have entered into the "ministry covenant" are Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church in Mount Lebanon, Lebanon Presbyterian Church in West Mifflin, Mt. Vernon Community Presbyterian Church in McKeesport and Round Hill Presbyterian Church in Elizabeth. Wolling is the senior pastor of Beverly Heights United Presbyterian Church. The newly-formed group, called the New Wineskins Ministry Network of the South Hills, already has sponsored a joint worship service and has organized the directors of the congregations' student ministries for planning future youth activities. Joint efforts in missions and worship also are scheduled.
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