US Presbyterians Progress in Revamping Mission Structure

Budget cuts and restructuring in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) have led to the call for a new chief financial officer on Tuesday. Joey Bailey, PC(USA)'s highest ranking financial officer has accepted the newly created position of Deputy Executive Director for Shared Services and Chief Financial Officer.

The new staff move comes after the General Assembly Council enacted a new Mission Work Plan and approved a reduced budget plan for the 2005-2006 fiscal year. Bailey, whose appointment is subject to approval by the council next week, will be responsible for overseeing technology, distribution, human resources, finance and accounting and facilities in support of the mission programme of the GAC.

"I am honoured to be chosen to continue to serve the church," said Bailey, according to the Presbyterian News Service. "I am committed to serving the mission programs of the church with the highest levels of accountability and service. Connecting my faith commitments with my work in this role brings me great joy and a sense of humility."

|QUOTE|The GAC's decision for a US$9.15 million budget cut last April has prompted the council to reorganise itself and its work. In May, the denomination had the second-largest employee layoff in its history. The new structure is scheduled to go into effect on the first of next year if approved next week at the GAC meeting. This would replace the 13-year-old Ministry Division structure consisting of three ministries with a single mission arm.

According to the denomination's new service, progress toward revamping the GAC structure is continuing as new positions are being filled.

Among others who were named to new positions, Dottie Smith has accepted the position of Associate Director for Financial Services and Treasurer, replacing Judy A. Golliher who was fired last summer after she allegedly admitted to embezzling US$102,000 from the church's general operating fund.

"These are among the first pieces of the reorganisation to be completed," said GAC Executive Director Linda Bryant Valentine. "Other positions will be posted and filled soon so that we can move the General Assembly Council forward in effective and faithful service to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) as we implement the Mission Work Plan."