Meeting Minutes of October 1, 2009
Recorded by: Margaret Thibodeau
Team Members attending: Jana Frank, Ginny Gledhill, Margaret Thibodeau, Karen Pierce, Carolyn Foster and Elsa Peters.
The meeting began with the approval of September’s Minutes.
The Team discussed Homecoming Sunday, which occurred on September 13th. Due to rummage sale items collected in Guptill Hall, Homecoming Sunday tables were spread throughout the hallways and meeting rooms of the church. EG&F provided beverages in Wright Pavilion, and food items were dispersed amongst the tables, in the hope to encourage people to walk around, and visit the various groups and committees represented. The event seemed to go smoothly, although the recruitment of volunteers was not any better than in previous years. A larger table was needed for Sunday School registration. People appreciated that healthy food options (grapes, pineapple, etc) were available in addition to traditional baked goods.
The coordination of Coffee Hour continues to be a challenge. A few volunteers do sign up each Sunday on the sign-up sheets available at Coffee Hour, however, the EG&F contact (Jana Frank) still spends a good deal of time each week making phone calls and enlisting help. Margaret makes sure that supplies (cream, milk, AJ, tea, etc) are stocked in the kitchen each week. It is the goal of the EG&F Team to recruit a small committee to head up Coffee Hour. This committee would organize coffee hour each Sunday, and report to Jana, as was the original intent when the EG&F Team was organized. Jana will contact the church office, and have a whole church email sent out requesting volunteers, as well as a notice put in the next bulletin. She will also try to recruit while making the coffee hour calls. Margaret will talk to Tom about the amount of coffee made (seems to more than enough), and emptying the coffee pots, which are too heavy for many of the volunteers.
Ginny is heading up the Nursery this year. She circulated for the Team’s approval, the notice posted in the nursery, asking parents not to leave more than one child with Diane alone. A signup sheet will be available in the nursery asking parents to help with coverage.
Carolyn reported that Sunday School had started smoothly. The suggestion was made for the Superintendent each Sunday to circulate amongst the classrooms, and be a visible support to the teachers. Often the younger ages need assistance with bathroom trips, etc, and the superintendent could be helpful at these times. The idea of a “pager system” for teachers of the younger grades was discussed by the Team.
The next Inquirer’s Meeting is Tuesday, October 20th, and Margaret will provide refreshments. New members will be inducted on Sunday, 11/15.
Elsa reviewed the Faith Formation update. There are many children registered for Sunday School, including several new families. Christ Kid’s Club, with almost 50 students attending, needs some adult assistance and adjustment in the program to empower the 7th & 8th graders. The Adult Faith Formation Committee met, and has much enthusiasm around focusing on themes for our congregation’s exploration. Several other opportunities are available this fall for adult faith exploration and study. The Veggie Tale event is scheduled for November 14th at 6:30, and several parents have already volunteered to assist.
Margaret reviewed Aaron’s Youth Ministry update. Aaron had asked the group’s opinion on offering the youth an opportunity to visit a temple. The Team was supportive of this activity.
Margaret will send the completed “Growth Group” forms to Dave Allen, and ask if he would like to join the Team at the next meeting in November.
The Team also reviewed and updated the “Church Contacts” list for the office, and progress on the Nametag Committee.
Next meeting: Thursday, November 5th
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Spiritual Life and Worship
Meeting Minutes of October 1, 2009
Attending: Elaine Brownell, Betsy Keiter, Dana Wiggins, Debbie Riley, Rick Angell, John McCall.
Opening Prayer by Debbie.
Review of Sept. Minutes – Approved as written.
World Communion Sunday – plans were made to serve communion at 4 places in the sanctuary to symbolize the 4 corners of the world. The SL&W team will help serve and ushers will direct congregants to the closest quadrant.
Inquirer's Meeting – scheduled for Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. in the Wright Pavilion – Dana will represent SL&W.
Growth Group – Rick reports that a Parish Host Inquirer's Meeting will be held after church on 10/3 to give information about this new program offered to newcomers in our church. Parish hosts might sit in church with a new family, or give a tour of our church or go along to coffee hour with them and introduce them to others. The Growth Group would like to encourage our church members to be more welcoming.
Hymnal Memorial Bookplates – Bryan Wiggins drew the design that Debbie and Dana have submitted – the group approved the design with a few color changes and now the memorial text is being entered and copy fit into the bookplate before printing and applying to inside covers.
Altar Table - The server in Davidson Lounge has been used for communion this past year and the SL&W has found its size and design fits well in the sanctuary – we would like to move it there on a permanent basis for communions. We will look for a new piece of furniture to replace the Davidson Lounge piece.
Communion Servers – Betsy will train new servers and organize a list of servers for the coming year.
Team Leadership – Sending the agenda will rotate as follows for future meetings: Dana/ November, Debbie/ December, Elaine/January, Rick/February, Betsy/March, Dana/April, Debbie/May, Rick/June.
Next Meeting: November 5 at 7 p.m.
Adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dana Wiggins
Attending: Elaine Brownell, Betsy Keiter, Dana Wiggins, Debbie Riley, Rick Angell, John McCall.
Opening Prayer by Debbie.
Review of Sept. Minutes – Approved as written.
World Communion Sunday – plans were made to serve communion at 4 places in the sanctuary to symbolize the 4 corners of the world. The SL&W team will help serve and ushers will direct congregants to the closest quadrant.
Inquirer's Meeting – scheduled for Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. in the Wright Pavilion – Dana will represent SL&W.
Growth Group – Rick reports that a Parish Host Inquirer's Meeting will be held after church on 10/3 to give information about this new program offered to newcomers in our church. Parish hosts might sit in church with a new family, or give a tour of our church or go along to coffee hour with them and introduce them to others. The Growth Group would like to encourage our church members to be more welcoming.
Hymnal Memorial Bookplates – Bryan Wiggins drew the design that Debbie and Dana have submitted – the group approved the design with a few color changes and now the memorial text is being entered and copy fit into the bookplate before printing and applying to inside covers.
Altar Table - The server in Davidson Lounge has been used for communion this past year and the SL&W has found its size and design fits well in the sanctuary – we would like to move it there on a permanent basis for communions. We will look for a new piece of furniture to replace the Davidson Lounge piece.
Communion Servers – Betsy will train new servers and organize a list of servers for the coming year.
Team Leadership – Sending the agenda will rotate as follows for future meetings: Dana/ November, Debbie/ December, Elaine/January, Rick/February, Betsy/March, Dana/April, Debbie/May, Rick/June.
Next Meeting: November 5 at 7 p.m.
Adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dana Wiggins
Monday, October 5, 2009
Food Pantry
Meeting Minutes of September 23, 2009
PRESENT: Betty Crane, Nance Driscoll, Burt Randall, Barbara Merrill, Gail Dransfield, Jan Files, Nancy Senger, Sandy Dyer, Judy Hardy.
ABSENT: AnnElissa was sick with the flu.
Kathy Sahrbeck has had to retire from our group. She, along with her great personality, will be missed. We did have a nice surprise, though. Nancy Senger has rejoined our group for a few months. Welcome back, Nancy.
BALANCE:
I’m sorry, but didn’t get the amount, but we spent the $3,242.00 that was a grant given to us by the United Way, on food and gift certificates. We have $400.00 in gift certificates left from that amount to give out.
REQUESTS:
June – Sept. Families / 130; Adults / 220; Children / 220
OLD BUSINESS:
Gail wrote thank you notes to Peter & Marcia Webber and to Peoples Methodist Church for their donations. Nancy Senger will get the names of other donors from the office & write them thank you notes. We made $80.00 to put into our piggy bank from our swap last Sunday, Sept. 20th.
NEW BUSINESS:
We decided to have a table with the Mission Mall at the Holly Daze Bazaar this year. Nancy Senger will set up and man the table for us after talking to AnnElissa to see what is needed. Sandy Dyer will make up gift certificates to give out and a alist of pantry foods needed.
Theft Problem: We had a problem this summer with some people stealing gift certificates out of bags. We discussed not giving certificates and giving powdered milk, but decided to still give the certificates. Any bags not picked up when Jen leaves on Friday will be put in the pantry. Gift certificates are to be put in the bottom of the bags. Jen is to tell people when they call that the food will be re-shelved if left here 3 days.
Mailings: Gail requested mailings be sent to community churches, schools & police departments. We want to remind people that we are here for those in need and to ask for whatever donations they can give. Jan will be writing the letters for the mailings.
Subs: If anyone needs a sub, when they get a name for the sub, it is up to the person asking for the sub to do a group email and let everyone know who that person is.
Thanksgiving: It was suggested when people call for food that Jen tell them that if they should want a basket that they should order Nov. 1st through Nov. 15th. They should also know that it will not hurt their pantry standings.
Emergency Help: Betty & Barb will make some new listings for Emergency help to put in bags and to give to Jen. Barb will also check on 411# and see exactly what it means.
Casserole Bags: We will once again start making our casserole bags. Need small bags and also any kind of bags for food. Will put a notice in the Beacon for bags and will also make up notes to put into food bags to ask people to recycle and bring us back their bags.
NEXT MEETING: Thursday, 1/21/10
Respectfully submitted by Jan Files.
PRESENT: Betty Crane, Nance Driscoll, Burt Randall, Barbara Merrill, Gail Dransfield, Jan Files, Nancy Senger, Sandy Dyer, Judy Hardy.
ABSENT: AnnElissa was sick with the flu.
Kathy Sahrbeck has had to retire from our group. She, along with her great personality, will be missed. We did have a nice surprise, though. Nancy Senger has rejoined our group for a few months. Welcome back, Nancy.
BALANCE:
I’m sorry, but didn’t get the amount, but we spent the $3,242.00 that was a grant given to us by the United Way, on food and gift certificates. We have $400.00 in gift certificates left from that amount to give out.
REQUESTS:
June – Sept. Families / 130; Adults / 220; Children / 220
OLD BUSINESS:
Gail wrote thank you notes to Peter & Marcia Webber and to Peoples Methodist Church for their donations. Nancy Senger will get the names of other donors from the office & write them thank you notes. We made $80.00 to put into our piggy bank from our swap last Sunday, Sept. 20th.
NEW BUSINESS:
We decided to have a table with the Mission Mall at the Holly Daze Bazaar this year. Nancy Senger will set up and man the table for us after talking to AnnElissa to see what is needed. Sandy Dyer will make up gift certificates to give out and a alist of pantry foods needed.
Theft Problem: We had a problem this summer with some people stealing gift certificates out of bags. We discussed not giving certificates and giving powdered milk, but decided to still give the certificates. Any bags not picked up when Jen leaves on Friday will be put in the pantry. Gift certificates are to be put in the bottom of the bags. Jen is to tell people when they call that the food will be re-shelved if left here 3 days.
Mailings: Gail requested mailings be sent to community churches, schools & police departments. We want to remind people that we are here for those in need and to ask for whatever donations they can give. Jan will be writing the letters for the mailings.
Subs: If anyone needs a sub, when they get a name for the sub, it is up to the person asking for the sub to do a group email and let everyone know who that person is.
Thanksgiving: It was suggested when people call for food that Jen tell them that if they should want a basket that they should order Nov. 1st through Nov. 15th. They should also know that it will not hurt their pantry standings.
Emergency Help: Betty & Barb will make some new listings for Emergency help to put in bags and to give to Jen. Barb will also check on 411# and see exactly what it means.
Casserole Bags: We will once again start making our casserole bags. Need small bags and also any kind of bags for food. Will put a notice in the Beacon for bags and will also make up notes to put into food bags to ask people to recycle and bring us back their bags.
NEXT MEETING: Thursday, 1/21/10
Respectfully submitted by Jan Files.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Administration Team
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2009
Present: Cyndi Alden, Ron Bennett, Guy Gledhill, Chris Mills, Jim Otis, and Deb Sandler.
Absent: Eben Marsh
The meeting was called to order by the Meeting Chair Ron Bennett at 7:00 p.m. Deb Sandler was appointed Meeting Secretary.
The minutes of the June 4, 2009 meeting were reviewed and accepted.
Old Business:
Financial Statements and Budget:
Cyndi provided a review of our financial statements and budget. revenues are approximately on budget except for rental property. Expenses are in line with budget.
On utility costs: Guy reported that the computer system is fully in place. It allows for remote control of the heating and cooling in each room. It will also calculate by zones where we are loosing heat. This hopefully will help us bring down the utility costs.
Jim recommended that Cyndi breakout item #5020 Rental Property into #5020 rental property income and #5021 rental property expenses so that we have a clearer picture of the rental properties budget.
Tenant review:
329 Cottage - Downstairs: rental is in place and going well. Upstairs: Dottie is moving by October 1st. She has had mice and fleas in the past month. She thinks the mice were from left over food the former downstairs tenant left behind. She has set many traps and caught 4 mice. She thinks she has trapped them all. She has also set off 7 bombs, but has not been able to eliminate the fleas. We will exterminate after she leaves.(or before) The apartment needs paint, bathroom fixtures, reglazing of the tub, new kitchen sink, closet work, windows, insulation and electrical work. These expenses will come out of the major maintenance account and were noted in the CNA report as to be done during a tenant turnover. Cyndi will advertise an opening for Nov. 1st for $700/m.
509 Sawyer, Bungalow: In May we authorized Cyndi to negotiate a lower rent with the tenant since she had lost her job. Rent went from $1000. to $750. In June Lisa, the tenant, got a new job…that job has fallen through.
Even though our lease states that there are ‘no pets allowed’ Cyndi gave Lisa verbal permission to have a dog. Over the summer the tenant took down the gate that separates her yard from the Discovery Center playground and allowed her dog to poop there. She was verbally asked multiple times by Cyndi and Pam Howard to clean up the poop and the cigarette butts. When she did not comply Cyndi, Tom and Pam met on August 27th and sent her a letter asking her to please find a new home for her dog by Sept 14th. She did not.
The ‘no pets allowed’ clause in the lease was waived by Cyndi’s verbal ok. The letter has officially replaced that clause and Lisa is now in violation of the lease. As a result we asked Cyndi to hand deliver her a letter stating that if your dog is not out by Oct 1st, we will serve you with a notice to vacate the premises.
(Update 9/23/09: Cyndi delivered the letter to Lisa on 9/18. On 9/22 Lisa responded that she has found a temporary home for her dog, starting 10/3, while she looks for new housing. She asked if it was ok to wait 2 days and make the transfer on the weekend. The A-Team, via e-mail, has agreed to that accommodation.)
Report of meeting with independent accountants: Jim, Ron and Cyndi met with Lori-Anne Wilson and Wayne Smith of Smith & Associates on September 10th, 2009 to talk about last year’s financial statement review. Simply put, it was recommended that small groups, such as the Eskimos and Hilltop Guild can be ‘forgiven’ from being included in the financial statement, but other programs, such as Holidaze Bazaar and Discovery Center should be included. It was a very comprehensive meeting and we had much discussion. Jim will write up minutes of that meeting to share with the Council.
Homecoming Sunday update: Deb reported that she had a table and was able to get two volunteers for the Garden Committee. Beyond that it was quiet with great baked goods.
Committee Reports:
House: Guy reported that
o Windows have been replaced on the 3rd floor in both the Sunday School and Community rooms.
o Painting is being completed on the office front.
o We are exploring an $8000. option to convert our oil burner to an oil or gas burner with the flick of a switch depending on the cost of oil or gas at the time.
o C,F&G has asked us to explore the idea of putting hand sanitizer dispensers on the walls throughout the church.
Counting: Peggy Murray has taken over as chair of the counting committee for the 2009-2010 church year and all is well.
Planned Giving: Ron & Chris will write a short article for the beacon to be submitted and reviewed at the next A-Team meeting.
New Business:
Web design: Discussion tabled until our next meeting.
New A-Team members: Chris agreed to call Rod Redstone, a new church member who expressed interest in being on the A-Team, to share ideas of the various committees he could join now and explore his joining the A-Team next June when we rotate off.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:09 p.m.
The next meeting will be held on October 1st, 2009.
Respectfully submitted by: Deb Sandler, Meeting Secretary
Present: Cyndi Alden, Ron Bennett, Guy Gledhill, Chris Mills, Jim Otis, and Deb Sandler.
Absent: Eben Marsh
The meeting was called to order by the Meeting Chair Ron Bennett at 7:00 p.m. Deb Sandler was appointed Meeting Secretary.
The minutes of the June 4, 2009 meeting were reviewed and accepted.
Old Business:
Financial Statements and Budget:
Cyndi provided a review of our financial statements and budget. revenues are approximately on budget except for rental property. Expenses are in line with budget.
On utility costs: Guy reported that the computer system is fully in place. It allows for remote control of the heating and cooling in each room. It will also calculate by zones where we are loosing heat. This hopefully will help us bring down the utility costs.
Jim recommended that Cyndi breakout item #5020 Rental Property into #5020 rental property income and #5021 rental property expenses so that we have a clearer picture of the rental properties budget.
Tenant review:
329 Cottage - Downstairs: rental is in place and going well. Upstairs: Dottie is moving by October 1st. She has had mice and fleas in the past month. She thinks the mice were from left over food the former downstairs tenant left behind. She has set many traps and caught 4 mice. She thinks she has trapped them all. She has also set off 7 bombs, but has not been able to eliminate the fleas. We will exterminate after she leaves.(or before) The apartment needs paint, bathroom fixtures, reglazing of the tub, new kitchen sink, closet work, windows, insulation and electrical work. These expenses will come out of the major maintenance account and were noted in the CNA report as to be done during a tenant turnover. Cyndi will advertise an opening for Nov. 1st for $700/m.
509 Sawyer, Bungalow: In May we authorized Cyndi to negotiate a lower rent with the tenant since she had lost her job. Rent went from $1000. to $750. In June Lisa, the tenant, got a new job…that job has fallen through.
Even though our lease states that there are ‘no pets allowed’ Cyndi gave Lisa verbal permission to have a dog. Over the summer the tenant took down the gate that separates her yard from the Discovery Center playground and allowed her dog to poop there. She was verbally asked multiple times by Cyndi and Pam Howard to clean up the poop and the cigarette butts. When she did not comply Cyndi, Tom and Pam met on August 27th and sent her a letter asking her to please find a new home for her dog by Sept 14th. She did not.
The ‘no pets allowed’ clause in the lease was waived by Cyndi’s verbal ok. The letter has officially replaced that clause and Lisa is now in violation of the lease. As a result we asked Cyndi to hand deliver her a letter stating that if your dog is not out by Oct 1st, we will serve you with a notice to vacate the premises.
(Update 9/23/09: Cyndi delivered the letter to Lisa on 9/18. On 9/22 Lisa responded that she has found a temporary home for her dog, starting 10/3, while she looks for new housing. She asked if it was ok to wait 2 days and make the transfer on the weekend. The A-Team, via e-mail, has agreed to that accommodation.)
Report of meeting with independent accountants: Jim, Ron and Cyndi met with Lori-Anne Wilson and Wayne Smith of Smith & Associates on September 10th, 2009 to talk about last year’s financial statement review. Simply put, it was recommended that small groups, such as the Eskimos and Hilltop Guild can be ‘forgiven’ from being included in the financial statement, but other programs, such as Holidaze Bazaar and Discovery Center should be included. It was a very comprehensive meeting and we had much discussion. Jim will write up minutes of that meeting to share with the Council.
Homecoming Sunday update: Deb reported that she had a table and was able to get two volunteers for the Garden Committee. Beyond that it was quiet with great baked goods.
Committee Reports:
House: Guy reported that
o Windows have been replaced on the 3rd floor in both the Sunday School and Community rooms.
o Painting is being completed on the office front.
o We are exploring an $8000. option to convert our oil burner to an oil or gas burner with the flick of a switch depending on the cost of oil or gas at the time.
o C,F&G has asked us to explore the idea of putting hand sanitizer dispensers on the walls throughout the church.
Counting: Peggy Murray has taken over as chair of the counting committee for the 2009-2010 church year and all is well.
Planned Giving: Ron & Chris will write a short article for the beacon to be submitted and reviewed at the next A-Team meeting.
New Business:
Web design: Discussion tabled until our next meeting.
New A-Team members: Chris agreed to call Rod Redstone, a new church member who expressed interest in being on the A-Team, to share ideas of the various committees he could join now and explore his joining the A-Team next June when we rotate off.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:09 p.m.
The next meeting will be held on October 1st, 2009.
Respectfully submitted by: Deb Sandler, Meeting Secretary
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Music Committee
Meeting Minutes of September 10, 2009
Present: Shirley Curry, Kim Early, Anna O’Connor
1. Reviewed and accepted May minutes.
2. Discussed plans for Homecoming Sunday. Kim will call Robin Reinhold to see if she is interested in continuing the Joyful Noise Choir and will make sign up sheets for that, the Children’s Choir, the Meeting House Choir, the Hilltop Ringers, and the Music Committee. Anna will hang some posters and man the table on Homecoming Sunday.
3. Committee members agreed to divide the writing of the thank you notes to those who volunteered for Summer Music.
4. After listing the Reed Organ on Craigslist and having Tom Saturley check with his contacts about auctioning the organ, with no success on either avenue, during the 2008-2009 church year, Kim reported that she contacted the Organ Historical Society and the Organ Clearing House over the summer. The Organ Historical Society does not deal with selling or buying of organs. The Organ Clearing House charges a finders fee, generally paid by the purchaser, which is $1,200 or 5% of the sale, whichever is greater. Kim agreed to contact the Organ Clearing House again to find out if the value is only 2,000 what the finders fee would be. The committee also discussed the possibility of not being able to sell the organ. Options include giving it away or leaving it as is.
5. Shirley reported that Sue Stevens had requested to use the clavinova at the Maine Conference Annual Meeting. Anna volunteered to check with Sue to see if she was still interested in borrowing it and if so if the church or even the conference has insurance for the clavinova to leave the building.
6. The committee set the following dates for its meetings for 2009-2010.
October 1st
December 3rd
February 4th
March 4th (if needed)
May 6th
Meetings will be held at 7 p.m. (Note: Easter is on April 4th in 2010.)
Present: Shirley Curry, Kim Early, Anna O’Connor
1. Reviewed and accepted May minutes.
2. Discussed plans for Homecoming Sunday. Kim will call Robin Reinhold to see if she is interested in continuing the Joyful Noise Choir and will make sign up sheets for that, the Children’s Choir, the Meeting House Choir, the Hilltop Ringers, and the Music Committee. Anna will hang some posters and man the table on Homecoming Sunday.
3. Committee members agreed to divide the writing of the thank you notes to those who volunteered for Summer Music.
4. After listing the Reed Organ on Craigslist and having Tom Saturley check with his contacts about auctioning the organ, with no success on either avenue, during the 2008-2009 church year, Kim reported that she contacted the Organ Historical Society and the Organ Clearing House over the summer. The Organ Historical Society does not deal with selling or buying of organs. The Organ Clearing House charges a finders fee, generally paid by the purchaser, which is $1,200 or 5% of the sale, whichever is greater. Kim agreed to contact the Organ Clearing House again to find out if the value is only 2,000 what the finders fee would be. The committee also discussed the possibility of not being able to sell the organ. Options include giving it away or leaving it as is.
5. Shirley reported that Sue Stevens had requested to use the clavinova at the Maine Conference Annual Meeting. Anna volunteered to check with Sue to see if she was still interested in borrowing it and if so if the church or even the conference has insurance for the clavinova to leave the building.
6. The committee set the following dates for its meetings for 2009-2010.
October 1st
December 3rd
February 4th
March 4th (if needed)
May 6th
Meetings will be held at 7 p.m. (Note: Easter is on April 4th in 2010.)
Monday, September 14, 2009
Spiritual Life and Worship
Meeting Minutes of September 3, 2009
Attending: Elaine Brownell, Betsy Keiter, Dana Wiggins, Debbie Riley, Rick Angell, John McCall
Opening Prayer by Betsy
Review of June 9 Minutes – Approved as written
Request from Sue Stevens – Sue has been the Executive Assistant at the Maine Conference office for 2.5 years and has grown in her faith while serving in matters of administration and communication there. As a continuation of her faith journey she is beginning her second year of studies to become a Commissioned Minister, one of three types of authorized ministers within the UCC. Commissioned ministers would not perform duties of an ordained minister but would specialize in their own area of expertise within the operation of the church. Sue asks for our support as she continues her studies. Betsy will craft a letter that will be reviewed at our next meeting. At that point we'll discuss a submission in the Beacon describing Sue's endeavor and our support of it.
Homecoming Sunday and Fair – Signup sheets were produced and will be on the tables this Sunday. SL&W tables will be in the Gallery opposite the curved wall hallway. Other groups will be set up throughout the church encouraging members to visit and learn about each group. Rick, Dana and Betsy and Debbie will be answering questions and acquiring new members for SL&W sub-groups of Greeters, Ushers, Acolytes, Narthex, Communion, Chancel, Worship Leader, Altar Flowers . We also hope to sign another member for SL&W to fulfill the minimum number. (Music and Lay Visitation, sub-groups of SL&W, will have their own sign up people.)
Salt and Light – Elsa has requested the SL&W create a worship moment about salt to tie in with the Homecoming 2009 theme of Salt and Light, reflecting on Matthew 5:13-16. We opted to talk as a group about salt in our language, expressions, food, cravings and needs. We'll start with definition of salt from the dictionary and assign characters to speak - such as an "old salt", a "salt of the sea" etc.
Hymnal Memorial Bookplates – Debbie and Dana will meet again to work on the book plates, estimating 2 weeks to finalize design, 2 weeks for printing with a target date of Oct. 4 for placement.
Website Update – Upgrades to the site would enable online forms for Sunday school registration, Youth Group permission slips, a link for web based donations, photo additions, more organized information, easier readability and navigation. John has a contact interested in discussing a site upgrade with us. Chris Keiter, Elsa, John, Dana and other interested members will form a group that will consult with the web-designer regarding available options, our priorities, and moderating costs. Once a new site is launched, text and photo updates can be made by a point-person, a volunteer within our church, to whom we can send new and changing content.
Altar Table - With communion going smoothly from the lower placement of the communion table, it's time to consider a table that can stay in the sanctuary rather than be moved each month from from Davidson Loung. A smaller, lighter and more portable table was suggested. We discussed costs of ready made or custom built. Debbie suggests submitting a diagram and dimensions to the Windham Correctional Institution for an estimate as they have an amazing woodworking shop with work being done by the inmates.
Multimedia in Worship Service - After discussion and research on multimedia worship services, Rick is tabling the idea due to lack of time to pursue start up and content development. He hopes the subject can be taken up at another time.
Discussion on John Attending SL&W Meeting – John will continue to meet with SL&W this year.
Next Meeting: Oct.1, 2009
Adjourned at 8:55 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
Dana Wiggins
Attending: Elaine Brownell, Betsy Keiter, Dana Wiggins, Debbie Riley, Rick Angell, John McCall
Opening Prayer by Betsy
Review of June 9 Minutes – Approved as written
Request from Sue Stevens – Sue has been the Executive Assistant at the Maine Conference office for 2.5 years and has grown in her faith while serving in matters of administration and communication there. As a continuation of her faith journey she is beginning her second year of studies to become a Commissioned Minister, one of three types of authorized ministers within the UCC. Commissioned ministers would not perform duties of an ordained minister but would specialize in their own area of expertise within the operation of the church. Sue asks for our support as she continues her studies. Betsy will craft a letter that will be reviewed at our next meeting. At that point we'll discuss a submission in the Beacon describing Sue's endeavor and our support of it.
Homecoming Sunday and Fair – Signup sheets were produced and will be on the tables this Sunday. SL&W tables will be in the Gallery opposite the curved wall hallway. Other groups will be set up throughout the church encouraging members to visit and learn about each group. Rick, Dana and Betsy and Debbie will be answering questions and acquiring new members for SL&W sub-groups of Greeters, Ushers, Acolytes, Narthex, Communion, Chancel, Worship Leader, Altar Flowers . We also hope to sign another member for SL&W to fulfill the minimum number. (Music and Lay Visitation, sub-groups of SL&W, will have their own sign up people.)
Salt and Light – Elsa has requested the SL&W create a worship moment about salt to tie in with the Homecoming 2009 theme of Salt and Light, reflecting on Matthew 5:13-16. We opted to talk as a group about salt in our language, expressions, food, cravings and needs. We'll start with definition of salt from the dictionary and assign characters to speak - such as an "old salt", a "salt of the sea" etc.
Hymnal Memorial Bookplates – Debbie and Dana will meet again to work on the book plates, estimating 2 weeks to finalize design, 2 weeks for printing with a target date of Oct. 4 for placement.
Website Update – Upgrades to the site would enable online forms for Sunday school registration, Youth Group permission slips, a link for web based donations, photo additions, more organized information, easier readability and navigation. John has a contact interested in discussing a site upgrade with us. Chris Keiter, Elsa, John, Dana and other interested members will form a group that will consult with the web-designer regarding available options, our priorities, and moderating costs. Once a new site is launched, text and photo updates can be made by a point-person, a volunteer within our church, to whom we can send new and changing content.
Altar Table - With communion going smoothly from the lower placement of the communion table, it's time to consider a table that can stay in the sanctuary rather than be moved each month from from Davidson Loung. A smaller, lighter and more portable table was suggested. We discussed costs of ready made or custom built. Debbie suggests submitting a diagram and dimensions to the Windham Correctional Institution for an estimate as they have an amazing woodworking shop with work being done by the inmates.
Multimedia in Worship Service - After discussion and research on multimedia worship services, Rick is tabling the idea due to lack of time to pursue start up and content development. He hopes the subject can be taken up at another time.
Discussion on John Attending SL&W Meeting – John will continue to meet with SL&W this year.
Next Meeting: Oct.1, 2009
Adjourned at 8:55 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
Dana Wiggins
Mission and Outreach
Meeting Minutes of September 3, 2009
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Laurie Cary. Carol Scheffler offered the opening meditation by reading the Beatitudes.
All members were present: Laurie Cary, Maureen Clancy, Sandy Dyer, Mike Kasputes, Richard Parker, Sarah Randall, Carol Scheffler and Greg Wyman, and also Rev. Elsa Peters. We all gave brief introductions around the table.
It was noted that the secretary’s report omitted a discussion of a possible donation to GLSEN. Other than that the report was accepted as written. Laurie reported that thank you notes were received from The Wayside Soup Kitchen, Spurwink Services, Serenity House, the Protestant Hospital Ministry, Andover-Newton Theological Seminary, and The Center for Grieving Children, as well as Friends of the World Food Program, which received $949.60 from the Easter offering. The treasurer’s report was reviewed and accepted with thanks.
Elsa spoke about the upcoming Annual Meeting of the Maine Conference. The theme of the meeting will be “Justice”. She also described a program which will be featured during Advent called “The Advent Conspiracy”, which encourages people to make Christmas less commercial.
We discussed the Micah Project and made plans for an all-congregation mailing. Sandy will prepare the letter for the mailing. A “Mission Moment” will be given on Sunday, September 20th about the program. Maureen will speak at the chapel service and Carol at the 10 o’clock worship. A possible project for this year might be assisting with loading a truck for Konbit Sante.
Sarah described plans for the Homecoming table, featuring an umbrella theme. It was also mentioned that the newly renovated Emergency Food Pantry will be open that morning.
Sarah will get in touch with AnnElissa regarding the next food drive.
Quarterly disbursements of $750 each were designated for:
Habitat for Humanity Bangor Theological Seminary
The Iris Network Equality Maine
Day One Shalom House
Preble Street Lighthouse Shelter (for teens)
Maureen spoke about the Chestnut Street Family Shelter and will look into the possibility of making a donation there.
The program for high school students, GLSN, was discussed and it was decided to give them a $200 donation, from discretionary funds, for transportation to meetings. A check will be given to Deb Therrien.
The next Special Offering will be Neighbors in Need, on October 4th. Laurie will prepare publicity.
We were reminded of the Rummage Sale scheduled for October 24th and advised that helpers will be needed during the week before and for clean-up afterward.
Carol closed the meeting by reading the Beatitudes from “The Message” translation.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandy Dyer
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by Laurie Cary. Carol Scheffler offered the opening meditation by reading the Beatitudes.
All members were present: Laurie Cary, Maureen Clancy, Sandy Dyer, Mike Kasputes, Richard Parker, Sarah Randall, Carol Scheffler and Greg Wyman, and also Rev. Elsa Peters. We all gave brief introductions around the table.
It was noted that the secretary’s report omitted a discussion of a possible donation to GLSEN. Other than that the report was accepted as written. Laurie reported that thank you notes were received from The Wayside Soup Kitchen, Spurwink Services, Serenity House, the Protestant Hospital Ministry, Andover-Newton Theological Seminary, and The Center for Grieving Children, as well as Friends of the World Food Program, which received $949.60 from the Easter offering. The treasurer’s report was reviewed and accepted with thanks.
Elsa spoke about the upcoming Annual Meeting of the Maine Conference. The theme of the meeting will be “Justice”. She also described a program which will be featured during Advent called “The Advent Conspiracy”, which encourages people to make Christmas less commercial.
We discussed the Micah Project and made plans for an all-congregation mailing. Sandy will prepare the letter for the mailing. A “Mission Moment” will be given on Sunday, September 20th about the program. Maureen will speak at the chapel service and Carol at the 10 o’clock worship. A possible project for this year might be assisting with loading a truck for Konbit Sante.
Sarah described plans for the Homecoming table, featuring an umbrella theme. It was also mentioned that the newly renovated Emergency Food Pantry will be open that morning.
Sarah will get in touch with AnnElissa regarding the next food drive.
Quarterly disbursements of $750 each were designated for:
Habitat for Humanity Bangor Theological Seminary
The Iris Network Equality Maine
Day One Shalom House
Preble Street Lighthouse Shelter (for teens)
Maureen spoke about the Chestnut Street Family Shelter and will look into the possibility of making a donation there.
The program for high school students, GLSN, was discussed and it was decided to give them a $200 donation, from discretionary funds, for transportation to meetings. A check will be given to Deb Therrien.
The next Special Offering will be Neighbors in Need, on October 4th. Laurie will prepare publicity.
We were reminded of the Rummage Sale scheduled for October 24th and advised that helpers will be needed during the week before and for clean-up afterward.
Carol closed the meeting by reading the Beatitudes from “The Message” translation.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandy Dyer
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