“Abracadabra!” rang out across the sanctuary where Presbytery of the James was conducting its 113th meeting on February 18. “The origin of the word abracadabra in Hebrew is ‘I will create as I speak,’” explained Rev. Dr. Flo Barbee-Watkins, lead presbyter. In 2021, Presbytery of the James spoke into existence a new model for serving.
As a preacher’s kid, certified Christian educator, and now ordained minister, Leigh Anne Ring feels prepared for her role as presbyter for relational care, serving her colleagues in Presbytery of the James. “God planned this identity for me long before I dared to dream it for myself,” she shared. Ring was born while her father,
At a special meeting on August 9 via Zoom, commissioners approved two recommendations from the Presbyter Search Committee: electing Ruling Elder Barbara Chalfant as presbyter for congregational life and Candidate Leigh Anne Ring as presbyter for relational care. Barbara Chalfant A graduate of Union Presbyterian Seminary and a certified Christian educator, Chalfant has served congregations in Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Virginia.