Annual Meeting of the General Assembly held on 25^th November 1997 at the Shalom Center Jehlum. More than expected members were present. Rev. Arthur James Moderator PCP led the devotion from Mathew 16:13-20, giving his views regarding the ever-lasting Church in the world. He further emphasized the need of unity in the Presbyterian Church of Pakistan.

The General Assembly was divided into two parts in November 1995 one group was led by Rev. Piyara Lall and the other one by Rev. Arthur James. This division was damaging the mission of the Church. Now it has been agreed by both groups to unite the Church and work together for the promotion and growth of the PCP. For this reason, the General Assembly was called on the roll of 1994.

The following office bearers were elected for next term:

• Rev. Arthur james                        Moderator
• Elder William George                 Vice Moderator
• Rev. Amos Maoud                      General Secretary
• Rev. Aslam Ziai                           Treasure
• Elder Vincent A. David                Honorary Executive Secretary ad-hoc basis

Ms. Susan Ryan Acting Coordinator Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, USA visited Pakistan from 4 - 16 December 1997. On 4th she met the Church Leaders and explained that Presbyterian Disaster Assistance is a ministry of "relief and response to national and international disasters, aid for refugees and displaced persons, refugee resettlement, and efforts toward development." Organizationally, It is part of the Worldwide Ministries Division of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Its resources are provided through "One Great Hour of Sharing", as well as through gifts given by churches or individuals for specific situations.

Next day she visited Christian Girls High School Sargodha, accompanying Mrs. Roe, Mrs. Veeda Javed and Mr. Vincent David. The school building was badly effected during heavy rains in August 1997. Mr. Vincent A. David being the manager of this school applied for an emergent grant through PCP to Disaster Desk during his visit to USA. A special grant of US$5100. - was given for its renovation. She was impressed with the work and school set up.

World Council of Churches and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Desk Presbyterian Church USA arranged a Training / Workshop on Disaster Situation from 7 to 14 December 1997 at Multan. Church of Pakistan, American Reformed Presbyterian Church, PCP and other Church Groups participated in this Training / Workshop. During this workshop, the participants visited Shantinager, where last year a disaster situation occurred and people in Pakistan and abroad helped them a lot yet because as they were not trained therefore, the aid was not collected or distributed properly.

The Presbyterian Church of Pakistan has established three Congregations in different parts of Karachi. These congregations are legally affiliated with Lahore Presbytery. It is hoped that by the end of 1998 there will be more congregations in Karachi, a separate Presbytery will be established. PCP Moderator requests to remember this project in your prayers. Right now, a new congregation in Karachi is trying to get a plot for new church building. Besides its own resources, the congregation needs about US$3000. - for which PCP is raising the funds.

• It is reported with pleasure that the PCP has begun with an adult literacy class in Qila Sunder Singh of Gujranwala Presbytery.
• Presbyterian Church Civil Lines Sargodha's first phase construction is completed. We praise for the beautiful building, which has been completed with the cost of nearly 700,000. - Pakistani rupees. Second phase of construction work is also going well. Prayers for this project are requested.
• PCP is planning to have seminars for the pastors of all the presbyteries. Pray that this need be met physically and financially.