The Omni William Penn was not my first choice in hotels, and I have had trouble in locating it once I have left - as in tonight.  I am glad that the streets were fairly empty, and that I had a chaperone for the trek back to our temporary "home".

Our presbytery staff (Mike, Mary, Sharon and me) went down this morning to register and to go through the exhibit area, which was good because it wasn't crowded.  We applauded and thanked the volunteers wherever we saw them, because it is a thankless sort of job to stand out on a corner in a funky yellow smock and welcome people.

We were all able to connect with some folks that have been around the presbytery in days gone by, and those who we know.  One of the first was Randy Branson, who is a candidate for the moderator position.  He said that he likes all the other candidates, and doesn't feel like they are "competing" at this point.  I said in response, "Well, maybe you should all tie and serve for 6 months each." Two years is a long time to serve - especially for a teaching elder (minister of Word and sacrament).  Typically that person is a pastor, and their congregations must be plenty understanding for the amount of time that person will be traveling.  All of the candidates this year are teaching elders.

It was also good to see Ashley Broadhurst, who served at Bellaire (now ChristChurch), who is now the director of Solar Under the Sun.  The offering at our October presbytery meeting will benefit this fine organization.  Ashley has been traveling to Haiti once a month, and has seen some progress.  It amazes me that two countries who share the same island have such different economic situations.  She said it had so much to do with the people in power.  I am reminded that "absolute power corrupts absolutely." How can leaders do that to the people that over which they have oversight?  How can people be so greedy and uncaring?

I took a trip across one of the bridges to the Andy Warhol Museum this afternoon.  He grew up here in Pittsburgh, and apparently attended a Byzantine Catholic church (St. John Chrysostom), which looks beautiful inside - the opposite of what John Calvin would want.  The museum was interesting, but I guess his more famous works are in other museums around the world.  I am glad I went ... but not exactly what I expected.

Our commissioners are all here, from what I can tell.  The last two arrived about an hour ago ... hope they could find dinner, and perhaps an adult beverage!  We have texted with most, and laid eyes on one (with spouse).  I guess we will see them tomorrow for worship.  If you are watching from afar, you should be able to stream it from the pcusa website, under the 220th General Assembly.  Two years ago, it reminded me of "The Lion King" with the production!  Hope it is less so this time.  It begins at 1:30 (EDT) - 12:30 Houston time.

One of the first kick off events is the luncheon sponsored by "The Presbyterian Outlook".  Jack Haberer, from our presbytery, is the editor.  All of the candidates for moderator attend, as well as past moderators.  This year I will let Cindy Bolbach and Landon Whitsett in since I am working the door, and I know them.  Two years ago, I didn't recognize Bruce Reyes-Chow and Byron Wade ... ooops!

So, that's today's update ... keep us in your prayers!
Lynn