Executive Presbyter's Report to Presbytery
"November 18, 2003"

1. Herb Christ Health Update

On Monday morning, November 2, 2003, Herb Christ suffered a ruptured Aortic Aneurysm. After over four hours of emergency surgery, Herb went into the recovery room still clinging on to life. Prior to the surgery, he lost over six pints of blood. The next 48 hours were critical for his recovery. Thus far, he has passed both of the initial stages of concern. The doctors continue to monitor him very closely. Ruth Anne and the family are requesting no visitors at this time. Herb would love to receive cards…especially funny ones! Please join with me in praying for his complete and full recovery. The Farewell Celebration for Herb's retirement has been rescheduled to Friday, January 9, 2004. As a result of Herb's serious health issues, the Council acted at the November meeting to have Linda Therien begin her tenure as the Stated Clerk of the Presbytery on Monday, November 3rd rather than the original date of January 1, 2004.

2. The Presbytery of San Diego Responds to Firestorm 2003

A series of emails titled "The Presbytery of San Diego Responds to Firestorm 2003" were distributed throughout the Presbytery during the week of the fires in our community. These proved to be helpful in keeping us connected during this crisis. Two specific passages of Scripture were highlighted as the charge to the Presbytery…"We did not suffer alone" (I Cor. 12:26) and "Washing One Another's Wounds" (Acts 16:33).

A newly formed, "Firestorm 2003 Relief Fund" has been established at Presbytery of San Diego. 100% of all funds received will be distributed directly to victims of the recent fires in our community.

Monies can also be sent directly to the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance at the General Assembly Offices in Louisville. Please note: this account is for all of California and not just San Diego. Gifts by credit card can be made by calling PresbyTel at 800-872-3283. Gifts should be designated for "California Fires #9-2000165 or online at http://www.pcusa.org/pda/donate/accounts.htm. Checks can also be mailed directly to: Central Receiving Service, section 300, Louisville, KY 40289. A request for an immediate $10,000 grant from the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance has already been processed through our Presbytery office.

The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance office recommended that we establish a Disaster Response Task Force to work on damage assessment and fund allocation. The Council acted to establish this Task Force at their November meeting. Rev. Bob Davis has agreed to chair. They request that families first apply to FEMA and the Red Cross and then the church. If victims get money for the church first, they may not receive the full amount from the other programs.

The Presbyterian Disaster Assistance office can also send us one or two trained people to help advisee and coach us about what to do and how best to help.

3. Presbyterian Crisis Center Task Force Final Report

The Final Report of the PCC Task Force will be presented for adoption at this Presbytery meeting. This final product represents hundreds of hours of time, energy and emotion from the members. I am extremely proud to have served alongside Elizabeth Crews, Jack Shelver, Marlene Cashin, Gary MacDonald and Janet Williams. We have had several on location meetings with the staff and volunteers of the PCC in the past few months. Please join with me in praying that this report will be adopted by the Presbytery.