On Sunday, September 23, the three Circles of Presbyterian Women of North Church honored three individuals with Lifetime Memberships in Presbyterian Women.

Presbyterian Women in the Presbyterian Church (USA) began the tradition in 1912 of awarding these lifetime memberships as a way of honoring church members for their commitment to Christ and the mission of the church, as well as the purposes of Presbyterian Women, which are: to nurture the faith through prayer and Bible study, to support the mission of the church worldwide, to work for justice and peace, and to build an inclusive, caring community of women that strengthens the PCUSA and witnesses to the promise of God’s Kingdom.

Speaking for Sarah Circle, Cindy Ebsary cited Kerri Bigler for her untiring efforts on behalf of the young people of North Church through her leadership skills on the Youth Ministry Team (YMT), her work on their fundraisers, as well as planning and participating in the senior high Mission Trip over the past several years. In addition, Kerri serves meals at Friends of Night People, has taught in the Sunday school, and currently serves North as a Deacon.

Ruth/Mary Circle honored Howard Reyder for his many years as a past superintendant of the Sunday school, followed by many more years of volunteer service to the Presbyterian Homes of WNY at its Oakwood assisted living/skilled nursing facility. Carol Brennan told the congregation that when it was announced that Oakwood was in need of volunteers, Howard appeared the very next day and continued working there for many years, until his retirement from that activity. His untiring support of and care for both the young, and the old and infirm, is a blessing to all of those children of God.

Carol Meyers, on behalf of Sarah Circle, noted that, since he joined North Church as a teenager in 1975, Randall Bigler has filled many roles. He has been an advisor to the senior high youth group, taught in the Sunday school, has served and is currently serving as a member of Session, Chaired the Nominating Committee, Co-Chaired the Pastor Nominating Committee that brought Pastor Bill to North Church, and is an active member of the Properties Committee. His many skills, along with the generosity of his time, are huge benefits to North Church.

A big THANK YOU to Kerri Bigler, Howard Reyder, and Randall Bigler for giving so freely of their many gifts to further the mission of North Church, Presbyterian Women, and the PCUSA.