Session
The governing body of the local church congregation is called the Session and is made up of Elders, often called ruling elders, that are elected lay leaders. They make decisions regarding worship, education, spiritual nurture, church property, and budgeting, ensuring that the congregation operates in alignment with God’s calling and the church’s mission. Elders also represent the congregation in higher governing bodies such as the presbytery, synod, and General Assembly, participating as commissioners to help shape regional and national church policies. Elders at New Hope Presbyterian serve a three-year term. Below are the current ruling elders and the Committees that they chair.
Class of 2026
- Tanya Awbrey
- George Jenkins
- Tom Strohl
Class of 2027
- Amanda Cummings
- Leslie Sauceda
- Derek Smith
Class of 2028
- Sue Hawkins
- Harriett Keller
- George Robbins
Committees
Adult/Youth Christian Education Tom Strohl
Building/Grounds Derek Smith & George Robbins
Congregational Care Leslie Sauceda
Evangelism/Marketing Amanda Cummings
Finance George Jenkins
Human Resources Sue Hawkins
Service Tanya Awbrey
Worship Harriett Keller
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team (PWCT)
The Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team supports and connects women’s ministries across the presbytery. PWCT strengthens mission, discipleship, justice work, and leadership development so that women’s voices and gifts shape the life of the church.
New Hope’s Coordinating Team meets on an as needed basis – usually every other month. And officers serve 2 year terms which run from January through December. The current Team includes:
Moderator Wanda Adams
Secretary Carmen Walser
Treasurer Martha Keever
Nominations Coordinator Jean Piercy
Church Hostess Risa Brandon, Terry Clark
Morning Circle Leader Gloria Alman
Circle #3 Leader Risa Brandon
Major responsibilities:
- Act as a liaison with the Presbytery, share communications, and prepare annual report.
- Receive and disburse Presbyterian Women funds as directed.
- Promote attendance in Presbyterian Women’s events in the Presbytery.
- Plan and conduct NHP annual Women’s Event.
- Plan and conduct NHP annual cake sale.
- Conduct and present the Honorary Life Membership award.
- Coordinate with bereaved families for meal preparation.
- Host wedding, baby showers, and graduation celebrations for church members.
- Fund and award college scholarship to qualifying NHP high school senior.
- Prepare an annual budget and provide an annual financial report to the Session.