April 24
Present: Janis Albright, Sarah Ellsworth, Leslie Gatcombe-Hynes, Barbara Merrill, Dick Merrill, Ed Saxby, Jim Van Hoeven
Ed Saxby chaired the meeting. The opening discussion focused on Creation Sunday. There was very positive feedback from several people about the service of worship. People felt it was meaningful and beautiful. People enjoyed the music. “Andy” Burt’s presentation in Davidson Lounge focused on Food and was well-received. It was interactive and Andy brought several pieces of literature that were available in Wright Pavilion as well as in Davidson. Barbara will pursue a donation to be made to Andy Burt.
The group brainstormed ideas for future activities and meetings.
Two religious leaders from different traditions could speak on Creation. The program could be Intergenerational and a meal could be part of the gathering.
There could be a potluck gathering, the focus of which could be people telling their stories around rationing during World War II. This was a time when people got along with less food and other items. Substitutions were made; for example margarine for butter.
The possibility of linking the environment and community by sponsoring an outdoor activity was discussed. Canoeing at Scarborough Marsh, walking the Clark’s Pond Trail, or exploring Robinson’s Woods were some options. This could be done on a Sunday after church. Two or three choices with educational themes could be given at the time of the gathering and people could select their activity.
Different themes/projects in each of the seasons could be offered. Multiple activities could be available at the same time. Sarah learned that Sherwin Williams teaches seminars. People could participate in a stripping furniture project and use safe paint to refinish the furniture.
Ed and Jim are interested in leading book discussion groups.
Jim would like to lead a program relative to Creation Theology in October.
Andy Burt had suggested a yearly theme, for example, Food. The Be A Good Apple program and the Community Supported Agriculture programs were mentioned. We could work with other faith groups in our area.
An evening or Sunday morning program with a speaker and/or a visual presentation was explored. Possibilities include Ray Sirois doing a program based on Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth”, the DVD “Kilowatt Ours” (55 minutes), or the Sierra Club’s DVD on “Who Killed The Electric Car?” (90 minutes).
Janis expressed concern about endangered species and was interested in addressing this in a religious context.
Janis suggested that we develop a Mission Statement. This could be helpful in making decisions about direction the group should take. Some people shared their reasons for coming to the Green Action Group. There was agreement to address this at our May meeting. Janis offered to work on this.
As a follow-up to our requesting space in the church library for educational materials relative to Green Action/Environment/Ecology/Creation, Barbara will contact Kathy Cotter to see if Green Action could submit a request for suggested books/literature to be purchased with library funds.
The use of existing bulletin boards as a means of communication for our educational efforts was discussed. It had been suggested that we contact the other groups that use bulletin board space near Wright Pavilion and see if the existing bulletin boards could be shared or if there could be a rotation of the groups using them. Barbara will pursue this question.
In an effort to find additional ways to communicate, the group decided to explore the use of the computer. Possibilities discussed included developing a list of people at church who would like to receive information relative to Earth stewardship, the environment, etc., via email from the Green Action Group. A weekly mailing could be sent which would include what our group is doing and what other people in Maine are doing. Sarah offered to meet with Elsa to pursue this and other ways in which we could use the computer as an effective educational tool.
Ed concluded the meeting with the following:
Ed will contact Gary Roberts to see if he will lead a Sunday afternoon nature walk in May or June. Ed will check with John and Elsa regarding this program.
Leslie will be asked to see if Ray Sirois could do a presentation relative to “An Inconvenient Truth” during an evening or after church on a Sunday sometime before mid-June.
We will address a Mission Statement at our May meeting. Sarah suggested we each present a one minute statement about our aims/ interests/ concerns for the Green Action Group. Janis will facilitate the development of our Mission Statement.
We will educate ourselves regarding a food program with the hope of implementing it during the year.
We will explore the possibility of an ecumenical pot luck during the Fall.
Sarah will meet with Elsa regarding the use of computers for our purposes.
Barbara will contact the Library Committee regarding our building a book collection relevant to the group’s concerns. She will pursue a donation for Andy Burt and will work on bulletin board availability.
The next meeting will be Thursday, May 29, at 7 pm in Davidson Lounge.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Merrill
Showing posts with label April 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label April 2008. Show all posts
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Green Action Group Minutes
April 3
Present: Louise Davis, Leslie Gatcombe-Hynes, John McCall, Barbara Merrill, Dick Merrill, Ed Saxby, Jim Van Hoeven
The focus of the meeting was the worship service for April 20. Participation in the service prepared by Jim follows:
Elsa: Welcome To Worship, Message, Prayers of the People, Lord’s Prayer
Kim: Life of the Church, Call to Confession, Unison Prayer of Confession and Words of Assurance.
Dick: Call to Worship
Louise: Children’s Time and Passing the Peace
Ed: Mission Moment
Janice: The Prayer for Illumination, The Word (Scripture determined by Elsa)
Leslie: Sharing Our Tithes and Offerings and the Benediction
Kim and Janice were not at the meeting and are invited to confirm their willingness to be responsible for their parts as stated above.
Jim will finalize arrangements with John, Elsa, and Shirley. He will work out the details of the Chapel Service with Elsa and will call Leslie and Louise with the information. We might have a single page for Chapel with Chief Seattle, the Call to Worship, and Leslie’s Prayer. We might put Bulletins on the seats in Chapel. Ed and Jim will check regarding Ed’s list of “Twenty Things…” and Kim’s list of kids’ ideas of how to live in a more green way.
Ed will host Anne D. Burt and will introduce her to the group in Davidson Lounge. “Andy” will have literature available regarding environmental programs.
Jim will explore a monetary gift for Andy.
Leslie will write an article for the next issue of the Beacon re: the services on Sunday, April 20. Barbara will write an article re: Anne D. Burt’s 11:30 presentation in Davidson Lounge. Barbara will submit items for The Bulletin relative to April 20.
Leslie will write a Beacon article on Earth Day opportunities in the community.
Dick shared the Annual Report he wrote for the Green Action Group.
There was a discussion of the “Feedback on Governance Structure” distributed by Dan Cummings. Jim will share our thinking at a Social Witness Ministries meeting. That group is working on communication, on sharing information, on having permission to do certain activities, and on financial matters.
Ed shared information about the Portland Trails event on April 11, on the Be a Good Apple program and the Community Supported Agriculture program.
Dick closed our meeting with a Bible reading and a prayer.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Merrill
Present: Louise Davis, Leslie Gatcombe-Hynes, John McCall, Barbara Merrill, Dick Merrill, Ed Saxby, Jim Van Hoeven
The focus of the meeting was the worship service for April 20. Participation in the service prepared by Jim follows:
Elsa: Welcome To Worship, Message, Prayers of the People, Lord’s Prayer
Kim: Life of the Church, Call to Confession, Unison Prayer of Confession and Words of Assurance.
Dick: Call to Worship
Louise: Children’s Time and Passing the Peace
Ed: Mission Moment
Janice: The Prayer for Illumination, The Word (Scripture determined by Elsa)
Leslie: Sharing Our Tithes and Offerings and the Benediction
Kim and Janice were not at the meeting and are invited to confirm their willingness to be responsible for their parts as stated above.
Jim will finalize arrangements with John, Elsa, and Shirley. He will work out the details of the Chapel Service with Elsa and will call Leslie and Louise with the information. We might have a single page for Chapel with Chief Seattle, the Call to Worship, and Leslie’s Prayer. We might put Bulletins on the seats in Chapel. Ed and Jim will check regarding Ed’s list of “Twenty Things…” and Kim’s list of kids’ ideas of how to live in a more green way.
Ed will host Anne D. Burt and will introduce her to the group in Davidson Lounge. “Andy” will have literature available regarding environmental programs.
Jim will explore a monetary gift for Andy.
Leslie will write an article for the next issue of the Beacon re: the services on Sunday, April 20. Barbara will write an article re: Anne D. Burt’s 11:30 presentation in Davidson Lounge. Barbara will submit items for The Bulletin relative to April 20.
Leslie will write a Beacon article on Earth Day opportunities in the community.
Dick shared the Annual Report he wrote for the Green Action Group.
There was a discussion of the “Feedback on Governance Structure” distributed by Dan Cummings. Jim will share our thinking at a Social Witness Ministries meeting. That group is working on communication, on sharing information, on having permission to do certain activities, and on financial matters.
Ed shared information about the Portland Trails event on April 11, on the Be a Good Apple program and the Community Supported Agriculture program.
Dick closed our meeting with a Bible reading and a prayer.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Merrill
New Hymnal Committee
Present: Dolores Broberg, Barbara Merrill, Shirley Curry, Elaine Brownell, Bruce Lockwood, Evie Strom, and Barbara Powers. (Thanks for your note, John!)
Next Meeting: Thursday, May 8, 5:30
1. Delores reported on Westbrook Warren. She reiterated highlights of the minutes that she already submitted. The director she spoke with reported the three views of the pastor, herself, and her daughter, who is stepping in as director. Their congregation has a lot of older people in it, who appreciated the older Pilgrim Hymnal. Ray Cornils really influenced the discussion in terms of the music and their move to New Century, but they do miss the traditional wording and DON’T like to deal with two hymnals so no supplement has been added. They are happy with the decision to go with the New Century Hymnal 90% of the time. The proposal was brought to their congregational meeting where they listened to two consultants and then voted.
2. Barbara M. reported on her discussion with the conference office. She corrected one aspect of her report, which is that the Maine Conference will not make recommendations. Anne Hodgeman is the correct spelling for the woman she spoke with in the resource center. They suggested the Worship and Rejoice as an option we should consider and offered to mail us a copy, but we already had two so it was declined. A couple of us expressed curiosity over their unwillingness to be more helpful!
3. Evie heard from Saco. They chose Hymns of Truth and Light but she missed the phone call with the explanation we’re seeking.
4. Elaine and Shirley reported on their congregational questionnaire draft. Elaine explained that they looked at one from another congregation John had given them. They made corrections, wrote five questions, and added some demographic information requests. The survey would appear as follows…As an introduction, information about the current Pilgrim Hymnal was first explained with reasons why it was time for a replacement. The request for survey participation was then made.
Shirley reviewed the questions she and Elaine elected to keep or modify:
1) What are your three favorite hymns?
2) As we choose our new hymnal, what types of music would you like to see included in it?
3) Many new hymnals use inclusive and updated language. As we consider purchasing updated hymnals, how important is this to you?
4) Is music an important part of the worship service for you?
5) In what ways is your participation in the music during worship important to you?
6) How many hymns and choral responses should be sung by the congregation during the worship service? Note: Bruce suggested an open ended question or two, like, What do you particularly like about the hymns and choral responses that the congregation sings? What would you change?
7) Do you regularly sing the hymns? Yes, why? No, why not?
8) How familiar are you with the hymns included in the Pilgrim Hymnal or in the Songs of the Spirit?
9) As we consider a new hymnal, what features would you like to see included? Options: Useful indexes, variety of hymns old and new, updated texts, hymns from other cultures, responsive readings, liturgies, creeds, other, additional comments.
10) Your age category.
11) How often do you attend church?
12) The committee added this one: Would you be willing to donate a hymnal with a memorial or celebration bookplate if the cost is moderate -- $20 to $30?
The group was comfortable charging Bruce with 2nd draft wordsmithing and getting it ready to go. He will send it to everyone on the committee for a last look before finalizing it. It was proposed that the survey be placed in a May 5th BEACON as well as introduced during the announcements portion of the worship service on May 11, or some other convenient time, to insure in-depth feedback and on-the-spot completion. The chapel service should be included as well. Barbara will ask John how this might work best.
5. FAQs – We discussed some of the frequently asked questions we should anticipate and came up with the following: Why do we need new hymnals now? The Pilgrim Hymnal was last published in the 1980s, etc., and are getting well worn. See the BEACON article for more details. Who will be deciding on the choice? The Hymnal Committee will make the decision following input via surveys and congregational discussions, as well as an opportunity for all interested to view the hymnals being considered. What will be the total cost? At $20 per hymnal, the total cost to the church will be $10,000 if 500 are ordered.What are the main features of each of the options being considered? See the summaries begun below. Timing wise, it was suggested that the Davison Lounge informational discussions happen just AFTER the surveys are completed and tallied so that the congregation’s response can be included in discussion. It was also suggested that the committee develop a decision matrix to help zero in on the best choice.
HYMNS OF TRUTH AND LIGHT: This hymnal stands between the conventional and the more progressive New Century in terms of language. Some of us really like the hymns that are included. It reflects more diverse denominations, since several congregations took part in its development. (GUILFORD is the cover of the example hymnal that was supplemented by that congregation’s hymnal committee.) There are many good Advent hymns, which Shirley described as a goal for the ministers and her. Thought: Add responsive readings to the Songs of the Spirit-type bound supplement instead of more expensive supplemental binding. There are some creeds, etc., throughout the book, however. Guilford’s hymnal lists the “supplements.” It also has a wonderful description of the process used to make their selections, the language of which we may wish to include in our own work.
CHALICE HYMNAL: Lots of good responsive readings are included. Delores thought it seemed heavier with gospel music. Psalms sung responses are in the back; Shirley said our congregation hasn’t been interested in that option. Affirmations of faith, prayers, reflections are appropriately mixed within the book. The daily devotion cycle is also in the back. Lots of communion hymns are included.
NEW CENTURY: It will be the most controversial, but has a lot to offer. The language is inclusive, there are interesting orders of worship, there are several hymns from other cultures. Bruce noted that this hymnal’s Advent and Christmas hymns are NOT well received in other congregations given the inclusive language manipulation. Sometimes it has been found that the language improves comprehension, Delores noted, even while the poetry of the music is disrupted.
WORSHIP AND REJOICE: Do we want strictly hymns or do we want responsive readings? There is no inclusive language, or internationally diverse music. It’s a great collection of traditional hymns, however, and also includes a good number of advent hymns. It’s just lacking responsive readings or any liturgical information at the end or contemporary selections, and doesn’t appear to be an improvement to our current collection.Barbara M. found a short list of “what to look for” when selecting a hymnal:Needs to be music that glorifies God and reflects the church communities’ values.Are songs musically satisfying? Playable? Readable?Are there a variety of themes to coordinate with the liturgical year?Is the style of music that which is desired by the congregation?Is denomination important?Make a list of hymns you are now using. What else is desired?King James or inclusive?Best to choose with hymn books in hand and not just reading the promotional material.We concluded that our committee is on the right track!Next meeting: Thursday, May 8, 5:30 – Let’s choose the congregational discussion dates and plan backwards from the order dates.
NOTE: Dana, we’d like to know from the publishers by WHAT DATE 500 hymnals would need to be ordered so that they are available for processing and Homecoming Sunday so we can set up our timeline. If you’d like help making some calls before the next meeting, please send out an email plea! We’ll then choose a date later in May to review the congregational survey data prior to the first discussions we’ll host, hopefully in early June.Respectfully submitted by: Barbara Powers (who was asked to simply include the minutes as the body of an email as some are having difficulty downloading documents
Barbara Powers
Next Meeting: Thursday, May 8, 5:30
1. Delores reported on Westbrook Warren. She reiterated highlights of the minutes that she already submitted. The director she spoke with reported the three views of the pastor, herself, and her daughter, who is stepping in as director. Their congregation has a lot of older people in it, who appreciated the older Pilgrim Hymnal. Ray Cornils really influenced the discussion in terms of the music and their move to New Century, but they do miss the traditional wording and DON’T like to deal with two hymnals so no supplement has been added. They are happy with the decision to go with the New Century Hymnal 90% of the time. The proposal was brought to their congregational meeting where they listened to two consultants and then voted.
2. Barbara M. reported on her discussion with the conference office. She corrected one aspect of her report, which is that the Maine Conference will not make recommendations. Anne Hodgeman is the correct spelling for the woman she spoke with in the resource center. They suggested the Worship and Rejoice as an option we should consider and offered to mail us a copy, but we already had two so it was declined. A couple of us expressed curiosity over their unwillingness to be more helpful!
3. Evie heard from Saco. They chose Hymns of Truth and Light but she missed the phone call with the explanation we’re seeking.
4. Elaine and Shirley reported on their congregational questionnaire draft. Elaine explained that they looked at one from another congregation John had given them. They made corrections, wrote five questions, and added some demographic information requests. The survey would appear as follows…As an introduction, information about the current Pilgrim Hymnal was first explained with reasons why it was time for a replacement. The request for survey participation was then made.
Shirley reviewed the questions she and Elaine elected to keep or modify:
1) What are your three favorite hymns?
2) As we choose our new hymnal, what types of music would you like to see included in it?
3) Many new hymnals use inclusive and updated language. As we consider purchasing updated hymnals, how important is this to you?
4) Is music an important part of the worship service for you?
5) In what ways is your participation in the music during worship important to you?
6) How many hymns and choral responses should be sung by the congregation during the worship service? Note: Bruce suggested an open ended question or two, like, What do you particularly like about the hymns and choral responses that the congregation sings? What would you change?
7) Do you regularly sing the hymns? Yes, why? No, why not?
8) How familiar are you with the hymns included in the Pilgrim Hymnal or in the Songs of the Spirit?
9) As we consider a new hymnal, what features would you like to see included? Options: Useful indexes, variety of hymns old and new, updated texts, hymns from other cultures, responsive readings, liturgies, creeds, other, additional comments.
10) Your age category.
11) How often do you attend church?
12) The committee added this one: Would you be willing to donate a hymnal with a memorial or celebration bookplate if the cost is moderate -- $20 to $30?
The group was comfortable charging Bruce with 2nd draft wordsmithing and getting it ready to go. He will send it to everyone on the committee for a last look before finalizing it. It was proposed that the survey be placed in a May 5th BEACON as well as introduced during the announcements portion of the worship service on May 11, or some other convenient time, to insure in-depth feedback and on-the-spot completion. The chapel service should be included as well. Barbara will ask John how this might work best.
5. FAQs – We discussed some of the frequently asked questions we should anticipate and came up with the following: Why do we need new hymnals now? The Pilgrim Hymnal was last published in the 1980s, etc., and are getting well worn. See the BEACON article for more details. Who will be deciding on the choice? The Hymnal Committee will make the decision following input via surveys and congregational discussions, as well as an opportunity for all interested to view the hymnals being considered. What will be the total cost? At $20 per hymnal, the total cost to the church will be $10,000 if 500 are ordered.What are the main features of each of the options being considered? See the summaries begun below. Timing wise, it was suggested that the Davison Lounge informational discussions happen just AFTER the surveys are completed and tallied so that the congregation’s response can be included in discussion. It was also suggested that the committee develop a decision matrix to help zero in on the best choice.
HYMNS OF TRUTH AND LIGHT: This hymnal stands between the conventional and the more progressive New Century in terms of language. Some of us really like the hymns that are included. It reflects more diverse denominations, since several congregations took part in its development. (GUILFORD is the cover of the example hymnal that was supplemented by that congregation’s hymnal committee.) There are many good Advent hymns, which Shirley described as a goal for the ministers and her. Thought: Add responsive readings to the Songs of the Spirit-type bound supplement instead of more expensive supplemental binding. There are some creeds, etc., throughout the book, however. Guilford’s hymnal lists the “supplements.” It also has a wonderful description of the process used to make their selections, the language of which we may wish to include in our own work.
CHALICE HYMNAL: Lots of good responsive readings are included. Delores thought it seemed heavier with gospel music. Psalms sung responses are in the back; Shirley said our congregation hasn’t been interested in that option. Affirmations of faith, prayers, reflections are appropriately mixed within the book. The daily devotion cycle is also in the back. Lots of communion hymns are included.
NEW CENTURY: It will be the most controversial, but has a lot to offer. The language is inclusive, there are interesting orders of worship, there are several hymns from other cultures. Bruce noted that this hymnal’s Advent and Christmas hymns are NOT well received in other congregations given the inclusive language manipulation. Sometimes it has been found that the language improves comprehension, Delores noted, even while the poetry of the music is disrupted.
WORSHIP AND REJOICE: Do we want strictly hymns or do we want responsive readings? There is no inclusive language, or internationally diverse music. It’s a great collection of traditional hymns, however, and also includes a good number of advent hymns. It’s just lacking responsive readings or any liturgical information at the end or contemporary selections, and doesn’t appear to be an improvement to our current collection.Barbara M. found a short list of “what to look for” when selecting a hymnal:Needs to be music that glorifies God and reflects the church communities’ values.Are songs musically satisfying? Playable? Readable?Are there a variety of themes to coordinate with the liturgical year?Is the style of music that which is desired by the congregation?Is denomination important?Make a list of hymns you are now using. What else is desired?King James or inclusive?Best to choose with hymn books in hand and not just reading the promotional material.We concluded that our committee is on the right track!Next meeting: Thursday, May 8, 5:30 – Let’s choose the congregational discussion dates and plan backwards from the order dates.
NOTE: Dana, we’d like to know from the publishers by WHAT DATE 500 hymnals would need to be ordered so that they are available for processing and Homecoming Sunday so we can set up our timeline. If you’d like help making some calls before the next meeting, please send out an email plea! We’ll then choose a date later in May to review the congregational survey data prior to the first discussions we’ll host, hopefully in early June.Respectfully submitted by: Barbara Powers (who was asked to simply include the minutes as the body of an email as some are having difficulty downloading documents
Barbara Powers
Mission Outreach Minutes
Present: Laurie Cary (chair), Linda Skinner, Carol Scheffler, Marilyn Andress, Greg Wyman, AnnElissa Leveque, John McCall
Minutes
Laurie read the daily UCC Devotional Reading from the internet and offered a prayer.
Secretary minutes were reviewed and accepted with commendations.
Thank yous were received from the following agencies: Maine Council of Churches, Bangor Theological Seminary, St. Luke’s Soup Kitchen, and Opportunity Farm.
Treasure’s report was reviewed and accepted.
$760.00 has been raised to date for the Easter Offering and $1,752 for One Great Hour of Sharing.
The Council Policy Statement was e-mailed to the Mission Team and should be added to our books as this is the final draft.
Fair Trade Coffee
Ø Carol reported that the first fair trade coffee serving went well last Sunday.
Ø Fare Trade coffee will be served on Sundays by the Educational Fellowship and Growth Team
Ø Sales of fair trade coffee and tea will occur on 4/14 and 4/27. The Fair Trade group will meet on 4/14 to discuss how to go forward with this project.
Safe Passages
Ø Joan Carrier will attend next month’s Mission Team meeting , with the Safe Passages representatives to set up a presentation.
Ø Jane Gallagher would like to show 2 films and have a discussion for a total of 2 hours.
Ø The suggestion was made to have it after worship and to cut back the presentation time to an hour rather than two.
Ø Carol will check this out with Joan.
Social Witness Ministries
Ø The Social Witness Ministry is currently comprised of 4 groups: Diversity, Fair Trade Coffee, the Green Team, and Non Violence Advocacy.
Ø Carol would like to have a meeting of all of the social witness groups in the spring to clarify the different subgroups’ missions as well as their goals. Carol is suggesting that we do this in the format of a potluck
Ø Possible dates were discussed. Carol will discuss this with the subgroup leaders to coordinate a date.
Ø The Mission Team would host the pot luck as it oversees all of the subgroups under Social Witness Ministry. Carol suggested that the Mission Team bring desserts. AEL offered to make chocolates.
Ø The mission statement for the Non Violence Advocacy group was submitted by Rick Angell who is leading the group. Rick was also looking for approval to put this in the upcoming Beacon. The Mission Team gave approval for both requests.
Ø Claude Vachon asked for $61.00 for a speaker from the Department of Peace for a presentation to be held on 5/7/08. This request was approved by the Mission Team.
Special offerings
Ø John McCall led a discussion on the special offerings, which was continued from last month.
Ø The Mission Team decided to not add the Strengthen the Church offering, for a variety of reasons including a careful look at what was being asked of the congregation as well as how we are currently focusing our mission giving. There was a concern noted that this new offering would fall on the same Sunday as Blanket Sunday.
Ø There was decision to continue our other special offerings as is currently set up.
Ø It was pointed out that we are giving a lot locally and a discussion ensued about what we are doing to support more global missions.
Ø A suggestion was made to focus the Easter and Christmas Offerings on social ministry and international missions.
Ø John pointed out that the congregation would support global crises that were recent.
Ø John suggested that at some point in the future we may want, on occasion, to use the Easter offering for Strengthen Our Church.
Next Year Mission Team
Ø Laurie, Marilyn, and AnnElissa will be leaving the Mission Team
Ø Laurie agreed to be an at large member for next year
Ø At the Team’s urging, Laurie agreed to lead the Mission Team again next year.
Ø Laurie stated that if she did so, then she would want to cut back on some of the things that she had led this year, including Mission Sunday, and Beacon articles. It was decided that whoever is in charge of an activity should be responsible for writing the Beacon article.
Ø Linda and Carol will continue next year as the 2009 class.
Ø Greg will continue as part of the 2010 class.
Ø Sandy Dyer and Sarah Randall will start a three year term.
Ø Laurie will ask Jim van Hoeven if he wants to continue as an at large member.
Ø Linda was asked if she wanted to continue as treasure. Linda will consider this option.
Ø AnnElissa was asked to stay on another year. AnnElissa expressed a concern that someone else might want a position on the team and she had been on for a while. AnnElissa stated that she would be interested if the opening could not be filled.
Ø A suggestion was made to return to subgroups for mission work and disbursements, as some team members prefer one task over the other. Laurie stated that Chris Keiter had made the suggestion for a subgroup for disbursements.
Ø Carol suggested that next year we have a subgroup focusing on researching the charity groups that we support, as it has been a number of years since this has been done.
Minutes
Laurie read the daily UCC Devotional Reading from the internet and offered a prayer.
Secretary minutes were reviewed and accepted with commendations.
Thank yous were received from the following agencies: Maine Council of Churches, Bangor Theological Seminary, St. Luke’s Soup Kitchen, and Opportunity Farm.
Treasure’s report was reviewed and accepted.
$760.00 has been raised to date for the Easter Offering and $1,752 for One Great Hour of Sharing.
The Council Policy Statement was e-mailed to the Mission Team and should be added to our books as this is the final draft.
Fair Trade Coffee
Ø Carol reported that the first fair trade coffee serving went well last Sunday.
Ø Fare Trade coffee will be served on Sundays by the Educational Fellowship and Growth Team
Ø Sales of fair trade coffee and tea will occur on 4/14 and 4/27. The Fair Trade group will meet on 4/14 to discuss how to go forward with this project.
Safe Passages
Ø Joan Carrier will attend next month’s Mission Team meeting , with the Safe Passages representatives to set up a presentation.
Ø Jane Gallagher would like to show 2 films and have a discussion for a total of 2 hours.
Ø The suggestion was made to have it after worship and to cut back the presentation time to an hour rather than two.
Ø Carol will check this out with Joan.
Social Witness Ministries
Ø The Social Witness Ministry is currently comprised of 4 groups: Diversity, Fair Trade Coffee, the Green Team, and Non Violence Advocacy.
Ø Carol would like to have a meeting of all of the social witness groups in the spring to clarify the different subgroups’ missions as well as their goals. Carol is suggesting that we do this in the format of a potluck
Ø Possible dates were discussed. Carol will discuss this with the subgroup leaders to coordinate a date.
Ø The Mission Team would host the pot luck as it oversees all of the subgroups under Social Witness Ministry. Carol suggested that the Mission Team bring desserts. AEL offered to make chocolates.
Ø The mission statement for the Non Violence Advocacy group was submitted by Rick Angell who is leading the group. Rick was also looking for approval to put this in the upcoming Beacon. The Mission Team gave approval for both requests.
Ø Claude Vachon asked for $61.00 for a speaker from the Department of Peace for a presentation to be held on 5/7/08. This request was approved by the Mission Team.
Special offerings
Ø John McCall led a discussion on the special offerings, which was continued from last month.
Ø The Mission Team decided to not add the Strengthen the Church offering, for a variety of reasons including a careful look at what was being asked of the congregation as well as how we are currently focusing our mission giving. There was a concern noted that this new offering would fall on the same Sunday as Blanket Sunday.
Ø There was decision to continue our other special offerings as is currently set up.
Ø It was pointed out that we are giving a lot locally and a discussion ensued about what we are doing to support more global missions.
Ø A suggestion was made to focus the Easter and Christmas Offerings on social ministry and international missions.
Ø John pointed out that the congregation would support global crises that were recent.
Ø John suggested that at some point in the future we may want, on occasion, to use the Easter offering for Strengthen Our Church.
Next Year Mission Team
Ø Laurie, Marilyn, and AnnElissa will be leaving the Mission Team
Ø Laurie agreed to be an at large member for next year
Ø At the Team’s urging, Laurie agreed to lead the Mission Team again next year.
Ø Laurie stated that if she did so, then she would want to cut back on some of the things that she had led this year, including Mission Sunday, and Beacon articles. It was decided that whoever is in charge of an activity should be responsible for writing the Beacon article.
Ø Linda and Carol will continue next year as the 2009 class.
Ø Greg will continue as part of the 2010 class.
Ø Sandy Dyer and Sarah Randall will start a three year term.
Ø Laurie will ask Jim van Hoeven if he wants to continue as an at large member.
Ø Linda was asked if she wanted to continue as treasure. Linda will consider this option.
Ø AnnElissa was asked to stay on another year. AnnElissa expressed a concern that someone else might want a position on the team and she had been on for a while. AnnElissa stated that she would be interested if the opening could not be filled.
Ø A suggestion was made to return to subgroups for mission work and disbursements, as some team members prefer one task over the other. Laurie stated that Chris Keiter had made the suggestion for a subgroup for disbursements.
Ø Carol suggested that next year we have a subgroup focusing on researching the charity groups that we support, as it has been a number of years since this has been done.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Council Minutes
Present: Deb Andrews, Chris Dow, Dave Allen, Stan Jordan, Chris Keiter, Carol Zechman, Sally Sutton, Jean Siulinski, Elsa Peters and John McCall
Absent: Matt Brucker , Paul Gray and Dan Cummings
OPENING: Carol opened the meeting at 6:30 with a quote. Chris K. reviewed the Meeting Agenda. Last month’s minutes were approved.
MINISTER’S TIME: John reminded the council that Kim Early’s resignation is effective at the end of this Sunday School year, but Kim has graciously agreed to help orient her replacement. EF&G is planning to honor Kim’s exceptional contributions at the May 18th Children’s Celebration Service. John relayed a story from last Sunday’s service about a family who has recently attended our church. John spoke with the father who said his daughter loved her Sunday school class and they had a wonderful feeling in the presence of our congregation. April 28th is the next inquirers Meeting. All are welcome to attend and share in the discussion. Elsa reported that we need 2 new delegates for the annual FCC-UCC meeting. The meeting is June 20th-June22nd. Elsa make a request for interested volunteers in the Beacon. Elsa also advised us that confirmation Sunday is May 4th. There will be a change in the Youth Ministry Structure. Instead of JYM, SYM and the combined Jump meetings, there will be one combined group for 6th-12th graders. The 4 current lay leaders are working out well and lay leadership is important to ensure consistency when ministerial leadership changes.
COUNCIL OPERATIONS:
Survey Feedback: Council members reviewed copies of the team comments. Concerns expressed about a couple of comments related to support vs. guidance from the council. Discussion ensued about how to involve council in team meetings and issues. Decision was made to have groups of two council members
attend each team meeting. Chris took down the names of council members that would be available on May 1st.
Web Site: Elsa asked the council whether they thought minutes and annual calendar would be helpful additions to the church web site. There was agreement that they would, but minutes should still be sent vis email, as well.
Budget Follow-Up: Council members though Cindy’s presentation and follow-up information were very helpful.
Interest Inventory Questionnaire: Discussion ensued about how the questionnaires are updated, do new members receive it (yes), who will “own” the forms. Elinor Redmond has volunteered to follow-up with individuals about what they have indicated their interests are. Stan suggested we add sub-committees to the
Questionnaire, so people can volunteer for more specific tasks.
Piano Funding: Stan asked how we could tell which funds could be used to fund the needed renovations. Chris outlined the various available funds. Sally requested that there be a listing of what other church projects might need these funds, or might not be completed because certain funds would be diverted to the piano renovations. A sub-committee (Chris K, Carol and Dave) was formed to explore the funding options in more detail and make recommendations to the council.
By-Laws: Stan and Paul continue to review and modify the new by-laws that Dan prepared.
Nominations: Lengthy discussion about council nominations and the need to have full slate of team members for the congregation to vote on at the Annual Meeting on April 27th. Chris will contact teams to get their lists and prepare the Annual Meeting report. Jean will call the suggested nominees for Church Council.
Space Use Request: Carol reviewed her meeting with George Pressley and his proposal to use church space to assist low income individuals in accessing affordable medications. Carol will contact the church(s) he worked with New Hampshire and report back to the council vis email.
The next meeting is Thursday, May 15th at 7pm.
Meeting Adjourned at 8:40.
Respectfully submitted by Carol Zechman
Absent: Matt Brucker , Paul Gray and Dan Cummings
OPENING: Carol opened the meeting at 6:30 with a quote. Chris K. reviewed the Meeting Agenda. Last month’s minutes were approved.
MINISTER’S TIME: John reminded the council that Kim Early’s resignation is effective at the end of this Sunday School year, but Kim has graciously agreed to help orient her replacement. EF&G is planning to honor Kim’s exceptional contributions at the May 18th Children’s Celebration Service. John relayed a story from last Sunday’s service about a family who has recently attended our church. John spoke with the father who said his daughter loved her Sunday school class and they had a wonderful feeling in the presence of our congregation. April 28th is the next inquirers Meeting. All are welcome to attend and share in the discussion. Elsa reported that we need 2 new delegates for the annual FCC-UCC meeting. The meeting is June 20th-June22nd. Elsa make a request for interested volunteers in the Beacon. Elsa also advised us that confirmation Sunday is May 4th. There will be a change in the Youth Ministry Structure. Instead of JYM, SYM and the combined Jump meetings, there will be one combined group for 6th-12th graders. The 4 current lay leaders are working out well and lay leadership is important to ensure consistency when ministerial leadership changes.
COUNCIL OPERATIONS:
Survey Feedback: Council members reviewed copies of the team comments. Concerns expressed about a couple of comments related to support vs. guidance from the council. Discussion ensued about how to involve council in team meetings and issues. Decision was made to have groups of two council members
attend each team meeting. Chris took down the names of council members that would be available on May 1st.
Web Site: Elsa asked the council whether they thought minutes and annual calendar would be helpful additions to the church web site. There was agreement that they would, but minutes should still be sent vis email, as well.
Budget Follow-Up: Council members though Cindy’s presentation and follow-up information were very helpful.
Interest Inventory Questionnaire: Discussion ensued about how the questionnaires are updated, do new members receive it (yes), who will “own” the forms. Elinor Redmond has volunteered to follow-up with individuals about what they have indicated their interests are. Stan suggested we add sub-committees to the
Questionnaire, so people can volunteer for more specific tasks.
Piano Funding: Stan asked how we could tell which funds could be used to fund the needed renovations. Chris outlined the various available funds. Sally requested that there be a listing of what other church projects might need these funds, or might not be completed because certain funds would be diverted to the piano renovations. A sub-committee (Chris K, Carol and Dave) was formed to explore the funding options in more detail and make recommendations to the council.
By-Laws: Stan and Paul continue to review and modify the new by-laws that Dan prepared.
Nominations: Lengthy discussion about council nominations and the need to have full slate of team members for the congregation to vote on at the Annual Meeting on April 27th. Chris will contact teams to get their lists and prepare the Annual Meeting report. Jean will call the suggested nominees for Church Council.
Space Use Request: Carol reviewed her meeting with George Pressley and his proposal to use church space to assist low income individuals in accessing affordable medications. Carol will contact the church(s) he worked with New Hampshire and report back to the council vis email.
The next meeting is Thursday, May 15th at 7pm.
Meeting Adjourned at 8:40.
Respectfully submitted by Carol Zechman
Fair Trade Coffee Project
Present: Laurie Cary, Sam Hare, Wayne MacKeil, AnnElissa Leveque, Carol Scheffler, Greg Wyman
Coffee Buying Club:
General Instructions
Will have two people at the table for the initial offering. Wayne will act as a sub if someone can’t make it. People are to make checks out to the church & should pay for the coffee at time of ordering. We will charge an additional 50cents/bag above the quoted price to help defray cost of coffee hour coffee. Bring calculator & scissors (to cut off receipt). Fill out the receipt at the bottom of the Order Form & return to the “coffee club member”. Bring any extra cloth bags you have to bag coffee on order fill date. Encourage members to bring them back at next coffee fill date. Greg will tabulate & complete order, verifying the correct amount has been collected. Greg will get the funds & copy of the order to Cyndi. & will either place the order or coordinate with Cyndi re ordering.. Carol will find out from Cyndi if the order & money can be slipped under her office door on Sunday afternoon.
Schedule & Duty Roster
First Order Date 4/20 – Greg, Carol
Follow Up Order Date 4/27 – AnnElissa, Carol; AFTER ANNUAL MEETING
Order Fill Date 5/4 or 5/11 (when coffee received) Sam, Wayne
Second Order Date 7/13 – AnnElissa
Follow Up Order Date 7/20 - Greg
Order Fill Date 7/27 – Laurie
Ordering Forms
Will use the order form that has a receipt at the bottom. Carol will modify the form to include the Item Code & make multiple copies for use on 4/20 & 4/27.
Beacon Article
Deadline is 4/17. Since Beacon won’t come out until the week after the first order date (4/20), Carol will notify those folks who signed up of the dates & write an article for the Beacon.
Coffee Hour Coffee
There appears to be only 5 bags of regular & 5 bags of decaf remaining. Greg will check with Tom to be sure there is not more somewhere else and will include in the April order enough to carry us through until July. Carol will find out the beginning & ending dates for the serving of lemonade as this will affect amount of coffee consumption.
Social Witness Potluck
The possibility of participating in a SW Potluck this Spring was discussed. Consensus was that it would be better to hold it in the fall. Laurie will put the scheduling of a SW Potluck in October on the MOT agenda for May 1st. Carol will notify Joan and the other sub-committee heads. AnnElissa asked that it not be scheduled for a Monday or Friday and Carol asked that it not be Friday as that is Elsa’s day off.
Council Feedback Form
Council’s questions were reviewed but the group felt that since we are so new, we have nothing significant to add. Carol will e-mail Dan Cummings.
Adjournment at 7:45PM.
Coffee Buying Club:
General Instructions
Will have two people at the table for the initial offering. Wayne will act as a sub if someone can’t make it. People are to make checks out to the church & should pay for the coffee at time of ordering. We will charge an additional 50cents/bag above the quoted price to help defray cost of coffee hour coffee. Bring calculator & scissors (to cut off receipt). Fill out the receipt at the bottom of the Order Form & return to the “coffee club member”. Bring any extra cloth bags you have to bag coffee on order fill date. Encourage members to bring them back at next coffee fill date. Greg will tabulate & complete order, verifying the correct amount has been collected. Greg will get the funds & copy of the order to Cyndi. & will either place the order or coordinate with Cyndi re ordering.. Carol will find out from Cyndi if the order & money can be slipped under her office door on Sunday afternoon.
Schedule & Duty Roster
First Order Date 4/20 – Greg, Carol
Follow Up Order Date 4/27 – AnnElissa, Carol; AFTER ANNUAL MEETING
Order Fill Date 5/4 or 5/11 (when coffee received) Sam, Wayne
Second Order Date 7/13 – AnnElissa
Follow Up Order Date 7/20 - Greg
Order Fill Date 7/27 – Laurie
Ordering Forms
Will use the order form that has a receipt at the bottom. Carol will modify the form to include the Item Code & make multiple copies for use on 4/20 & 4/27.
Beacon Article
Deadline is 4/17. Since Beacon won’t come out until the week after the first order date (4/20), Carol will notify those folks who signed up of the dates & write an article for the Beacon.
Coffee Hour Coffee
There appears to be only 5 bags of regular & 5 bags of decaf remaining. Greg will check with Tom to be sure there is not more somewhere else and will include in the April order enough to carry us through until July. Carol will find out the beginning & ending dates for the serving of lemonade as this will affect amount of coffee consumption.
Social Witness Potluck
The possibility of participating in a SW Potluck this Spring was discussed. Consensus was that it would be better to hold it in the fall. Laurie will put the scheduling of a SW Potluck in October on the MOT agenda for May 1st. Carol will notify Joan and the other sub-committee heads. AnnElissa asked that it not be scheduled for a Monday or Friday and Carol asked that it not be Friday as that is Elsa’s day off.
Council Feedback Form
Council’s questions were reviewed but the group felt that since we are so new, we have nothing significant to add. Carol will e-mail Dan Cummings.
Adjournment at 7:45PM.
Spiritual Life and Worship Minutes
Present: Deb Riley, Elinor Redmond, Sandy Hansen, Betsy Keiter, Dana Wiggins, Tex Haeuser, John McCall
Excused: Bryan Wiggins
Opening Meditation was offered by Deb Riley and much appreciated by the group.
Review of Minutes from March 6: approved as written with compliments to Bryan.
Review of Lenten/Easter Activities
Good Friday Soup Supper
- Big success; lots of volunteers
- Sign-up sheet helped; good leadership by Sandy with sign-up assistance by Margaret Thibodeau
- Too many PB&J sandwiches; next year let people make their own
- Paul Indorf again performed the miracle of the many electrical connections
- Donations of $188 came in, but after deductions for supplies & groceries, $113 was the net profit
Easter Vigil
- Sign by Bryan was great
- Elinor led the effort; she made calls to try to fill in some of the 2-hour periods that only had one person signed up. It was difficult to find people to come in during the middle of the night
- Elinor both mailed and emailed the schedule to those who signed up and put the schedule in the Chapel
- Those doing the vigil need each other’s phone numbers in case someone forgets to come
- May want to consider suggesting that people sign up with a friend
- The Chapel preparations (mostly Elsa) were beautiful; thoughtful reading materials; a notebook for journal entries
Sunrise Service
- Bryan and Dana led this project
- Good attendance (65 people)
- Cold but beautiful
- Quite dark to start with; need to check sunrise times
- Service went well; may need some accompaniment for singing—choir is otherwise occupied
Governance
Subcommittee feedback: Communion Subcommittee: Sometimes it seems as if there is still a small group of people doing everything.
What is going well?
SLW had so many former Deacons that the transition seemed seamless; not much different than before except having a smaller, more intimate group given the separate Communion subcommittee.
Having Communion separate has worked, mostly because of Mary Ann’s devotion and leadership.
Having meeting time/date flexibility has been good.
Some miss the opening service.
Some miss the former Deacons’ retreat (but we can still have one).
We enjoy the more informal meeting setting (and comfort) of Davidson Lounge
Challenges encountered
Concept was that we would not be doing the food events, but we understand given how much EGF has had to do
Concern for Communion should Mary Ann ever step down
Needed improvements
Better if did volunteer recruiting in the spring and not wait for Homecoming
Allow more people on SLW (as we’ve already decided)
Effectiveness of the new structure
Overall, it seems like the tasks that need to get done are getting done
We feel SLW has been effective
Nominations for SLW
Sandy contacted all those who expressed interest on the participation forms, and to date only Richard Angell had expressed interest in joining the SL & W Team
Debbie is contacting some new members to inquire about interest level in participating in some way on our Team or in a subcommittee
John’s Update
Elsa’s grandfather passed away and she is in New York; we are keeping her in our prayers.
Kim Early has resigned effective the end of the church school year; if we have thoughts on the job description or a candidate, let John know; Kim has been with us for five years and has done a tremendous job
This Sunday John will deliver a sermon about the racism we find hard to acknowledge; full page ads in the NY Times and USA Today by the UCC about Rev. Jeremiah Wright.
Question: when should we start intinction? Response: better if we wait until July given attendance by elders in June
Confirmation Sunday
- May 4th
- We need to arrange for the boutonnières
- Leslie will handle the flowers
- Betsy to talk with Mary Ann to coordinate communion
- Betsy will take care of the altar cloths.
- Betsy and Sandy will talk with Margaret as Betsy has materials left over from last year
- Sandy will be a server but not an organizer
Elder Selection
- Going well; meeting with John on Monday
- David Allen has a list of candidates
- To meet the timeframe, we may vote by email
Annual Report
Betsy will do because she is a nice person! Dana offered to be back-up.
Terms of Office
Somewhat under protest, but understanding the need, the group decided (for itself and for Bryan because that’s how in tune we are):
Class of 2008
Tex Haeuser
Dana Wiggins
Class of 2009
Sandy Hansen
Bryan Wiggins
Betsy Keiter
Class of 2010
Elinor Redmond
Deb Riley
2011
Tex Haeuser
Dana Wiggins
Richard Angell
Hymnal Committee
- Dana Wiggins reported
- Everyone did reports from other churches
- Majority are using New Century, but it’s flawed
- Plan to seek feedback from our congregation in several ways
- Some publishers will bind in your favorite songs
- Some information sessions are being planned
Pentecost
Elsa has plans to decorate the sanctuary. Elsa, Dana, and Randall Landry will organize. Congregation again will be crafting the decorations.
Next meeting: May 1, at 7:30 PM.
Adjourned 9:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted by,
Tex Haeuser
Administrative Team
First Congregational Church, UCC, South Portland
Minutes
April 3, 2008
Present: Ron Bennett, Eben Marsh, Deb Sandler, Jim Otis, Guy Gledhill Chris Mills. Absent: Cyndi Alden, Business Manager.
Call to order: Jim acted as chair for the meeting, and called the meeting to order at 7:05. Per the rotation schedule, Eben recorded this meeting and will chair the May meeting. (Just a reminder that each month’s chair will receive and review items that are in the mailbox for the meeting they will chair.)
Minutes from the March 2, 2008 were reviewed and accepted as written.
OLD BUSINESS:
Finance: In Cyndi’s absence, we reviewed the 1st quarter 2008 Budget vs. Actual.
We would ask Cyndi to break out from line 5020 Rental Properties the expenses against the income.
Planned Giving Initiative: A Planned Giving Committee is being formed. Chris reported that Gretchen Reynolds has agreed to serve. Others to be invited to serve include Dan Cummings, John Howard, Ed Saxby and Ellie Baker.
The PGC will; develop a registry of potential benefactors, solicit resource people to provide advice and guidance, and develop an education approach (simple) to a PG program.
Bulletin Board: The Council has asked the A-Team to develop a policy for the placement and use of bulletin boards in the Church.
Chris is to visit with Dan Cummings to obtain more definition from the Council of the issues pertaining to bulletin boards. This matter was deferred to the May meeting.
Annual Report: Guy presented his draft of the Annual Report for the A-Team. It was well done, informative and comprehensive. The A-Team voted to accept the Report.
Tenant Update: Deferred to May meeting.
A -Team members: Jim will nominate Chris and Ron for a full three year term on the A Team. We are all continuing on the A team next year, therefore no volunteers from our team to serve next year on the Council.
Page 2.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Counting Committee: Jim reported that Peggy Murray, Dick Angel and Brian Wallace have agreed to serve on the Counting Committee. They will make sure that the process of weekly counting is done, working properly, and will maintain a colander for scheduling counters.
Jim will meet with them to orient their function of managing the counting process.
The A Team commended Jim for his excellent personal effort and diligence in getting the CC organized. 28 members have volunteered to count.
House Committee: Guy presented a comprehensive report of the activities of the HC. It is attached and referenced as part of these Minutes.
In addition, Guy and Deb reported that the HC is working with Tom to engage a contractor to replace 19 old and inefficient windows with new vinyl clad units. This will lower future maintenance and energy costs and make the building more comfortable. Deb and Guy spoke to commend Tom Conlon for the very committed and great job he is doing for our Church.
The A Team concurred that this was necessary, and that the HC, having dutifully adhered to our Procurement Policy guidelines, should proceed and engage Steve Saugars to perform the work at a cost of $6681.00.
The matter of the Swarthmore Road signage was discussed. Residents there have asked the Church to provide “No Parking” signs to prevent obstructing the view entering on to Mitchell Street. Guy reported that he has conferred with the City, and that the residents must provide a petition from the neighbors that they agree with the Church for signage “No Parking to Corner of Mitchell Street.” The City will provide the sign. The minutes are uncertain as to how this information will be conveyed to the Swarthmore Street neighbors???
Personnel: Eben reported that the PC is considering adding “Vision” coverage, available from the MCUCC for Church staff.
New Business: There was no new business to discuss.
Date of next meeting: May1, 2008 at 7:00P
This meeting was adjourned at 8:12P
Respectfully Submitted,
Eben Marsh
Minutes
April 3, 2008
Present: Ron Bennett, Eben Marsh, Deb Sandler, Jim Otis, Guy Gledhill Chris Mills. Absent: Cyndi Alden, Business Manager.
Call to order: Jim acted as chair for the meeting, and called the meeting to order at 7:05. Per the rotation schedule, Eben recorded this meeting and will chair the May meeting. (Just a reminder that each month’s chair will receive and review items that are in the mailbox for the meeting they will chair.)
Minutes from the March 2, 2008 were reviewed and accepted as written.
OLD BUSINESS:
Finance: In Cyndi’s absence, we reviewed the 1st quarter 2008 Budget vs. Actual.
We would ask Cyndi to break out from line 5020 Rental Properties the expenses against the income.
Planned Giving Initiative: A Planned Giving Committee is being formed. Chris reported that Gretchen Reynolds has agreed to serve. Others to be invited to serve include Dan Cummings, John Howard, Ed Saxby and Ellie Baker.
The PGC will; develop a registry of potential benefactors, solicit resource people to provide advice and guidance, and develop an education approach (simple) to a PG program.
Bulletin Board: The Council has asked the A-Team to develop a policy for the placement and use of bulletin boards in the Church.
Chris is to visit with Dan Cummings to obtain more definition from the Council of the issues pertaining to bulletin boards. This matter was deferred to the May meeting.
Annual Report: Guy presented his draft of the Annual Report for the A-Team. It was well done, informative and comprehensive. The A-Team voted to accept the Report.
Tenant Update: Deferred to May meeting.
A -Team members: Jim will nominate Chris and Ron for a full three year term on the A Team. We are all continuing on the A team next year, therefore no volunteers from our team to serve next year on the Council.
Page 2.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Counting Committee: Jim reported that Peggy Murray, Dick Angel and Brian Wallace have agreed to serve on the Counting Committee. They will make sure that the process of weekly counting is done, working properly, and will maintain a colander for scheduling counters.
Jim will meet with them to orient their function of managing the counting process.
The A Team commended Jim for his excellent personal effort and diligence in getting the CC organized. 28 members have volunteered to count.
House Committee: Guy presented a comprehensive report of the activities of the HC. It is attached and referenced as part of these Minutes.
In addition, Guy and Deb reported that the HC is working with Tom to engage a contractor to replace 19 old and inefficient windows with new vinyl clad units. This will lower future maintenance and energy costs and make the building more comfortable. Deb and Guy spoke to commend Tom Conlon for the very committed and great job he is doing for our Church.
The A Team concurred that this was necessary, and that the HC, having dutifully adhered to our Procurement Policy guidelines, should proceed and engage Steve Saugars to perform the work at a cost of $6681.00.
The matter of the Swarthmore Road signage was discussed. Residents there have asked the Church to provide “No Parking” signs to prevent obstructing the view entering on to Mitchell Street. Guy reported that he has conferred with the City, and that the residents must provide a petition from the neighbors that they agree with the Church for signage “No Parking to Corner of Mitchell Street.” The City will provide the sign. The minutes are uncertain as to how this information will be conveyed to the Swarthmore Street neighbors???
Personnel: Eben reported that the PC is considering adding “Vision” coverage, available from the MCUCC for Church staff.
New Business: There was no new business to discuss.
Date of next meeting: May1, 2008 at 7:00P
This meeting was adjourned at 8:12P
Respectfully Submitted,
Eben Marsh
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