Meet the Presbytery Staff: Ericka Smith-Stephens
Stewardship and Service: Reflections on My Role as Administrator
An administrative leader is like the steward of a household. The Bible has much to say about effective stewardship, and a good administrator is like a faithful steward who manages the household and business affairs of his master (Luke 12:42-48). Having a servant’s heart epitomizes Ericka Smith-Stephens’ character. I love being behind the scenes coordinating, orchestrating things, and seeing them come to life. It is always my goal to do things in excellence, with grace, patience, and as unto God. Supporting others gives me life!
Embracing the Joy of Administration
Being an administrator brings such joy. It comes so easily to me, excites me, gives me purpose, and gives me pause. That pause became more pronounced since becoming the Administrator of the San Gabriel Presbytery. When I interviewed for the position, I was extremely certain that I would accomplish this job description without a problem. Just check off the boxes and get the job done. Due to Administration being my gift from God, things would be simple, right?
The First Presbytery Meeting: A Humbling Experience
Fast forward to my very first Presbytery meeting. It literally blew my mind. I was nervous, anxious, and inspired. Now mind you, my background is in corporate America where I was an Assistant Vice President for a major banking institution. So, Zoom calls were meetings that were a piece of cake. Until my first SGP Zoom call. I will never forget that on the call, the Moderator called a motion to the floor to be voted on. Everyone cast their votes. Then out of nowhere, a voice says, “This motion has passed unanimously.” I actually remember saying to myself, “WOW, was that you Jesus?” The order in which that meeting was held was nothing short of impressive, unreal, and amazing.
Challenges and Learning Moments
Not long after, we began to prepare for what would be my first in-person Presbytery meeting held at Trinity Presbyterian Church. The organization it took to pull that meeting off exceeded any meeting I had to prepare for. It was so awesome to be involved. Thinking about that meeting and feeling that all the I’s were dotted and T’s were crossed, I was sadly mistaken. Pastor Harlan was doing communion. He looked at the bread that I had cut into nice, even pieces with such a confused look. At that time, it dawned on me, I forgot the communion bread in the trunk of my car. I turned to Carrie and said, “the bread is in my car!” We both chuckled. Carrie was so gracious to me and said, “don’t worry, worse things could have happened. You are doing an excellent job!” Honestly, I felt like such a heel. But encouraged and determined to learn the ins and outs of this Presbytery like I know the back of my hand!
Growth and Gratitude
When I tell you that being the Administrator for San Gabriel Presbytery has stretched me, that is an understatement. During these past 90 days, I have been challenged and have become an expert of Zoom! As a life-long learner, this is precisely what I need to take my admin skills to the next level. As I reflect on my time here at SGP, the scripture that comes to mind is “as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). And for this, I am forever grateful. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you all.