Mission at the Eastward

Steve Row to lead MATE As Transition Coordinator

Mission at the Eastward is pleased to announce the hiring of the Rev. Stephen Row to serve as Transitional Coordinator for the Summer of 2013 to begin June 3rd. Steve has been serving as the moderator and part-time pastor of United in Christ Presbyterian Church in Starks Maine. We in MATE have gotten to know him over the past few years. He recently was Moderator of the Presbytery of Northern New England and brings extensive experience to MATE as a pastor, educator, and organizer. Steve became familiar with MATE and its ministries in the late 70’s when he was working with the Maine Seacoast Mission. He has preached in many Maine churches and has been involved in the Sudanese Fellowship in Portland. He and his wife, Beth, live in Buxton Maine. Steve will be working 16 to 20 hours a week for MATE and will have an office at the Leeds Community Church.

In the last year, MATE has focused on reorganizing the administrative side of its ministry. We are moving toward a system with greater volunteer support. We have contracted with Austin Associates of Auburn for payroll and book keeping services (which is working out very well), and we now have a “virtual office” style of operation. This has streamlined our operations and significantly lowered costs. Transitions in PC(USA), especially the Synod of the Northeast, will impact our mission and role of MATE in the future. Historically, the Synod has offered strong financial support to MATE. One of the first things Steve will do is attend the Synod’s Transitional Report meeting on June 15 in Albany, NY, where we will learn more about what the future may hold for both Synod and MATE. If Synod support is reduced, we need to be prepared.

In the past year, MATE created a job description for a 1/4-time (40-45 hours/month) leadership position that focuses on support and development of relations between our three ministries (South Africa Partnership, North Parish Housing, and Camp at the Eastward). These are all good, viable ministries; but the question is, “do they form the basis for strong and energetic relationships between the congregations that historically have been part of MATE? Or are there other interests and needs that should be considered?” Steve will be “taking the pulse” to see how people and congregations are doing in their relationship to MATE and then give us some feedback to hone our expectations and desires for the next MATE Coordinator. Combined with a better understanding of our financial future, we hope to be in a good position by September to move forward in the midst of change. Welcome Steve!!

Mission at the Eastward is Growing in God!

This website, like the Mission, is under reconstruction and becoming re-energized. Our churches are participating in transformational programs to find "New Beginnings" and seeking to partner with God in our communities. We are learning more about how to "Engage" with others and spread God's good news.

Please visit MATE church websites, particularly Fairbanks Union Church in Farmington, North Turner Union Presbyterian Church and United in Christ Presbyterian Church in Starks, to see the exciting new and energized missions.

A color-coded, Calendar of Events, indicate the church or ministry sponsoring meetings, outreach activities and/or fellowship/fundraising events. You will find local resources for food pantries, clothing centers, public suppers and many other public events within this part of Maine as examples of how we are "reaching the last house at the end of the road".

What is in a name?

Mission at the Eastward believes that the name of our cooperative parish is important for three reasons: first, it is historic, remembering the eighteenth century "Presbytery at the Eastward" located in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. Second, what distinguishes Mission at the Eastward is that it is a mission, it has characteristics that are different from a collection of congregations. Third, mission implies service. To learn more Click Here

Camp at the Eastward

Applications now Available Click here

Calendar of MATE Events

MAY

- 18th - CAMP OPENING DAY -
Beginning at 9 am
Walk-a-Thon - Tuition Fundraiser
Camp at the Eastward, Starks

- 25th - PLANT SALE at 9 a.m.
Industry Town Hall
Fundraiser for CATE Scholarships

- 25th - GIVING THANKS Public Supper
Turkey Dinner w/all the fixings
sponsored by Hartford Church at
Masonic Hall, Buckfield
5 - 6:30 p.m.

JUNE

- 1st - PNNE ASSEMBLY
United in Christ PC, Starks, ME

- 6th - MATE Finance Committee Mtg
5:30 pm
Fairbanks Union Church

- 22nd - CINDERELLA at the BALL
Annual Tea Party
Hartford Town Hall - 1 - 4:00 p.m.
Hartford Community Church

- Week of 23rd - 28th
BANTAM overnight CAMP
Registration begins at 6 p.m.

- Week of 24th through 28th
CHICKADEE DAY CAMP
9:30 - 2:30 daily