May SPRC report

A.) The SPRC met with Liz and Mark Von Wald for the annual staff review for “Directors of Christian Education”.

-Mark and Liz shared their philosophy of a relational style of ministry which is intended to build strong relationships with the children and parents so that children see Jesus living through them. This is accomplished through activities, prayer and communications including personal calls.

- Currently there is small growth in attendance, new activities, changes to the pre-K, 5th grade classes have added action prior to teaching and Wednesday evening programs changes from Kidmo to themed nights.

Concerns shared were:
- Getting sufficient volunteers. While there are adequate Sunday school teachers but special events need more help.
- They are also trying to improve the spiritual growth and training for Sunday school teachers.
- Reestablishing the children’s advisory council was addressed as a means to help with volunteers and feedback.
- Changes to the Sunday services and how it impacts Sunday school are an issue.

Future plans:
- Vacation Bible school planning is underway for an evening program in August
- Trinity is hoping to have a float in the July 4 parade to advertise TUMC and the VNS.
- They would like to start mission service projects with the small groups of the older children
- Have regular teacher training and spiritual growth sessions for teachers.
- Transition event to the middle school youth program.
- Provide a list of expectations for teacher and helpers.
- Build a relationship with Sunday school teachers, helpers and families with personal contact.

The SPRC members shared their appreciation for a great start to their program. The children program is considered very important to the future of Trinity Church by providing an entry point for new families. We must have a welcoming, vibrant program to offer. The Von Wald’s have displayed that they are not willing to settle for the status quo and will continue to work to make changes that improve and meet families at their needs. We are very lucky to have 2two dedicated, committed Christians to lead this program.

The staff reviews for the music director and organist have been postponed till fall.

B.) A new staff position for “contemporary worship leader” was discussed and approved. Nathan Lange will be asked to fill the position he currently is doing on a voluntary basis if approved by the church council at the May meeting. The position would be filled as of 6-1-2010 with a salary to be negotiated (similar to the music director).

C.) Mary Douds has agreed to be the SPRC counterpart to Youth ministries and the crib room coordinator

D.) Pastors comments:
- Things continue to progress well with continued consistent attendance and financial giving above previous years at this time of year.
- The discussion during last Sunday’s meetings after the service showed a high level of interest in how to proceed in the future. The results and minutes will be shared at the worship committee and a follow up meeting is scheduled for June.
- Pastor Jeff will provide a vacation schedule for the summer. Charlie Yund encouraged him to strongly consider a “mini sabbatical “by taking 2 consecutive weeks.
- The conference changes are still unclear. The impact on Trinity for medical is still not known but a cap on increases to any church is in place at 110-120 %.
- Robin Blair has no position as yet after she completes as chaplain in August.

E.) Next meeting is Wednesday, June 2 at 7:00 pm

Respectfully submitted,
Charlie Yund