June 20, 2006
by Shane Whisler

BIRMINGHAM – Presbyterians at the 217th General Assembly made history Tuesday morning by confirming elder Linda Bryant Valentine as the new executive director of the General Assembly Council, the first woman to serve in that position.

The confirmation of Valentine and the election of the Rev. Joan Gray as moderator weave nicely into the year of celebrating milestones in the ordination of women as deacons, elders and ministers serving the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Valentine officially starts her four-year term with the General Assembly Council (GAC) July 1 at the Presbyterian Center in Louisville, KY.

Commissioners voted 430-48, with 15 abstentions, to confirm the elder from Fourth Presbyterian Church, Chicago. "I feel a deep sense of call and a deep sense of commitment to serve this church of God in Jesus Christ," she said.

Following Valentine's installation, the Rev. Nancy Kahaian, chair of the council, led the celebration of John Detterick's service as executive director for eight years and his five years as Board of Pensions president. Kahaian called Detterick a tireless, faithful steward whose leadership brought her wisdom, inspiration and encouragement.

"I was challenged by his exuberant hope for the church," she said.

"I am deeply honored, but I think you have it backwards," said Detterick who appeared to be moved by the occasion. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, he listed a number of meaningful experiences. "I have received far more from this church than I have ever given to it."

The confirmation of the GAC's executive director was brought to the Assembly by the Mission Coordination and Budgets committee.

In other business, commissioners approved the restructuring the council and its membership after seeking reassurance that the changes met Book of Order standards for representation.

Presbyterian News Service