Anita Applauds – First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant

“I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason, I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers.” Ephesians 1: 15-16

Presbytery Friends, Every morning I wake up grateful for the love of Christ being expressed through faithful disciples in our Lake Erie Presbytery. Every day my prayers are full of joy for your commitment and service. In my role as General Presbyter, I am privileged to see a broad view of church life in this presbytery. I see ordinary acts of faith expressed consistently year after year. I also see extraordinary expressions of loving service. Both often go largely unnoticed as dedicated Christians quietly serve in Christ’s name without fanfare or applause. With this in mind,, I will highlight a mission or ministry of one of our churches that valiantly reflects the love of Christ. I hope that you will join me in giving thanks for these ministries.

This month, Anita Applauds First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, Erie for stepping up and committing more energy to your church’s worship and ministry during a time of leadership transitions.  Since Senior Pastor, Rev. Chris Weichman, moved to Georgetown, SC in November 2025, other pastoral events have led to a need for staff, elders, and members to provide stabilizing leadership. Seph Kumer, Director of Community Engagement, required unexpected surgery in January and needed time to heal. [Please continue to include him in your prayers.]  Rev. Britney Knight, Associate Pastor and Acting Head of Staff, and her husband, Zach, welcomed their 4^th child, Simeon Jude, on February 3^rd and Britney began a planned 3-month maternity leave.  [Congratulations to Britney and Zach on the birth of their beautiful son!]  This left a lot on the shoulders of Monty Service, Director of Missional Music and Worship Technology, and Leslie Weber, Director of Music.  Monty and Leslie have served beautifully in the interim.  Lay leaders have served beautifully in the interim. In addition, Rev. Chuck Cammarata has moderated the Session and officiated at a couple of funerals and Rev. Walter Green has preached/led worship. You have all worked together to make your ministry shine. Well done, faithful leaders!