Small and Mighty Presentations
- Synod of South Atlantic
- Oct 16, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 20
Next Small and Mighty Zoom Gathering
February 3rd
7:00 – 8:00 pm ET / 6:00 – 7:00 pm CT
Topic: A Quick Introduction to Systems Thinking – Part II
Presenter: Rev. Scott Crane
Hosted by the Association of Smaller Congregations
Systems thinking is a framework that is based on the belief that the component parts of a system can best be understood in the context of relationships with each other and with other systems rather than in isolation. The only way to fully understand why a problem or element occurs and persists is to understand the part in relation to the whole. (from Wikipedia)
We began this discussion on Systems Thinking in January. If you were unable to attend that gathering, keep in mind we post recordings on the Synod of South Atlantic website. You can access past recordings and resources that are suggested by the facilitator from the button on this page: https://www.synodofsouthatlantic.org/small-and-mighty.
January 6
Topic: A Quick Introduction to Systems Thinking – Part I
Facilitator: Rev. Scott Crane, a retired pastor after 30+ years of ministry in small churches and current stated supply pastor for Willington Presbyterian Church (McCormick, SC) and Calhoun Falls Presbyterian Church (Calhoun Falls, SC) on alternate Sundays
Summary: Systems thinking is a framework that is based on the belief that the component parts of a system can best be understood in the context of relationships with each other and with other systems rather than in isolation. The only way to fully understand why a problem or element occurs and persists is to understand the part in relation to the whole. (from Wikipedia)
November 7
Topic: Tips & Tricks of Conflict Resolution
Facilitator: Britanny DiGiammarino, Christian Educator and Small Church Coordinator forFlint River Presbytery
Summary: Conflict is inevitable in every congregation—but it doesn’thave to be destructive. In this session, we’ll explore practical tools for navigating disagreement with grace, understanding, and confidence. Drawing on resources from the Lombard Mennonite Peace Center, participants will learn simple, effective strategies for resolving tension, fostering healthy communication, and strengthening community relationships.
October 7
Topic: Whole Person Leadership: Taking Faithful Steps Toward Leading Well
Facilitator: Alicia Demartra-Pressley, Associate for Missional Equipping, Interim Unified Agency, PCUSA
Summary: What does it mean to be well? Together we will explore what it means to be a whole person, leaning into well-being in life and leadership. Using the Wheel of Life as a guide, we will reflect on the different areas that shape our wholeness—naming challenges, engaging spiritual practices, and drawing on the resources that sustain us.
Alicia offers her contact information and these links as well.
Zoom recording: Gathering #5: Whole Person Leadership
September 9
Topic: Pick a Peck of Partnerships
Facilitator: Rev. Caroline Dennis, ASC President and Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church (Greenwood, SC)
Summary: Never were we meant to go alone! These days smaller membership congregations are finding new life in mutually beneficial partnerships. Sometimes this means that the church is partnering with a non-profit. Sometimes this means a small church is partnering with another small church. Sometimes this means a larger church is partnering with smaller churches. Hear examples about several mutually beneficial partnerships and pointers for finding, cultivating, and sustaining partnerships that recognize and build upon God’s kingdom in our midst.
Zoom recording: Gathering #4: Pick a Peck of Partnerships
August 5
Topic: Cultivating Emotionally Healthy Leaders
Presenter: Rev. Joy Fisher, Congregational Consultant with the Greater Atlanta Presbytery
Summary: Parking lot meetings, breaches of confidentiality, that one elder who always "goes off" at every meeting. We know that church is made up of sinners. But also, the Holy Spirit promises we can get better! How do we love people where they are and also create expectations of growing into spiritual maturity?
Zoom recording: Gathering #3: Cultivating Emotionally Healthy Leaders (8/5/25)
July 1
Topic: Christian Nurture Resources for All Ages
Presenter: Britanny DiGiammarino, Christian Educator and Small Church Coordinator for Flint River Presbytery.
Summary: Brittany offered a summary of resources for blended classes, intergenerational groups, and young adults. Participants shared resources that were working well in their own contexts. Brittany shared a resource list.
June 6
Topic: ACS Introduction and Connection
Presenter: Rev. Caroline Dennis, ASC President and Pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church (Greenwood, SC)
Summary: Introductions to ASC, its mission, and board members. Initial conversation with 38 small church leaders who gathered to share good news of small and mighty things God is doing in and through their congregations. Conversation shifted to participants current greatest needs which will be used to identify the topics of future monthly conversations.
Zoom recording: Gathering #1: ACS Introduction and Connection
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