October began for Philadelphia Yearly Meeting with the announcement that Chris Mohr will serve as the next General Secretary. Friends have come to know his work through the years, and the announcement invites tenderness across community of Friends as PYM continues through a time of transition. Christie Duncan-Tessmer’s final weeks in the role brought thoughtful messages and shared gratitude for her service; the month closed with thanks that her leadership has shaped how Friends move together in faith.
Christie Duncan-Tessmer
Celebrating Christie Duncan-Tessmer
After more than two decades of service to Philadelphia Yearly Meeting, including ten years as General Secretary, Christie Duncan-Tessmer has stepped down from her role. Please join us and other Friends across our community in pausing to reflect with deep gratitude for her leadership, creativity, and commitment to the health and vitality of our yearly meeting.
At the Home of Martha and Mary
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
- Luke 10:38-42 New International Version
Honoring Cheyney University Legacy and Deepening Quaker Connection
The 188th Founders’ Day celebration at Cheyney University brought together alumni, students, and guests to honor the school’s long history as the first HBCU in the country. Among those attending were Philadelphia Yearly Meeting’s presiding clerk Nikki Mosgrove and general secretary Christie Duncan-Tessmer, who were guests at the event. The celebration included speeches, music, and reflections on Cheyney’s past and future. Throughout the event, speakers mentioned Cheyney’s Quaker roots, recognizing the role Quakers played in helping to establish the school and its focus on education and opportunity.
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