When asked to explain why she supports nFOG (New Form of Government), Bolbach said it establishes a new mindset and basically returns the Book of Order to a constitution rather than a rule book.

In addition to being honored with a special reception on the opening night of the 2010 Covenant Network of Presbyterian’s National Conference, the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s Moderator Cynthia Bolbach had the opportunity to host a small-group workshop discussion on issues facing the denomination.

She fielded questions on topics including: the PCUSA’s proposed new Form of Government (nFOG), dialogue on the Middle East, positive developments throughout the denomination and having respectful dialogue on the issues.

Discussion during the 75-minute session included:

· Bolbach discussed three of her primary goals for her term as moderator: 1. Renewing the focus on ruling elders as spiritual leaders in the PCUSA; 2. How the denomination can effectively organize itself in the 21st century (she lifted up the efforts of the new 21-member Middle Governing Body Commission and its charge to think boldly and creatively on the roles of presbyteries and synods); 3. Go back to the report by the Theological Task on Peace Unity and Purity (PUP) on how to deal with disagreements in the church. “How do we figure out ways to reach across the aisle and talk to each other?” she asked.

· Her opinion on dialogue surrounding the Middle East issue. Bolbach admitted that she was a novice on the issue heading into her campaign for moderator of the 219th General Assembly (GA). “I really thought we had the prospect of Armageddon on the floor of General Assembly,” she said.

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