Church Council Meeting
Monday, October 17, 2011
Charlie opened meeting with unison reading of the mission statement.
Attendees: Charlie Yund, Laura Mason, Jan Garrison, Sheila Rader, Chris Hipp, Paul Sipson, Larry Baird, Elaine Johnson, Mark VonWald, Liz VonWald, Sue Kaiser, Bob Kaiser, Anne Hipp, Bobbie Cap. Excused: Jim Tamsen, Tom Burkman, John Jones.
Discussion on attendance and communication to board members occurred.
Larry opened in prayer. Jan Garrison shared a “God sighting” about what happened at the time ladies were walking Saturday morning. Gail shared about the composition of the 8:00 service and how all are “related” through God. Ann shared an observation about the congregation on Sunday. They were paying attention – unlike other Sundays. Sermons are interesting. Mark shared that the senior Kidzone behavior has improved – and they are listening to what God is saying. Sue reported she has heard quite a few positive comments on the Women’s’ retreat!
The Road Map Ministry through alignment with the core theological considerations was presented by Larry. In order to move forward and take our minds off ourselves, what are we doing that aligns with our core beliefs.
The objective is to make certain what we do actually results in the achievement of our mission statement. Are our present ministries effective? Are we balanced in our emphasis? How many people we impacted by the ministry?
Prevenient Grace:
How do we engage people not already aligned with TUMC or new to the faith in a meaningful and winsome way so as to point them toward the love of God? (“Building Bridges to the Foot of the Cross”)
Justifying Grace
How do we work with people so they can arrive at a decision point as to whether to confess Jesus Christ as “The Way, The Truth, and the Life?”
Sanctifying Grace
How do we be certain we are sustained and mature in the faith? How do we help other people be sustained and mature in the faith?
POINT LEADERSHIP
• Leadership asks the hard questions
• Does our ministry connect with our core theology or are we just doing stuff?
• Is this effective? Is it reaching the target
• population?
• Should our resources be used in continuing this ministry?
Charlie shared that if we are going to go out and share the Gospel, how do we prepare ourselves to actually be able to go out and speak with confidence. The Womens Retreat was right on target and universally well received. Sheila shared that all those that attended shared with others that God had brought together.
Changes to Agenda: none
Major Calendar Events
October 21 – Trunk or Treat – Cars and kids invted. Mark reported that many have already donated candy for this event. A great opportunity for outreach.
November 4- 6:30 PM – Movie Amish Grace – great moving on forgiveness. The movie is rated G
Founder’s Day – is under discussion
Thanksgiving Sunday/Stewardship Sunday – is under review
January 8 – Laity Sunday
February (last weekend) – ACE weekend Fred Claus
UMW Reading program for 2012 is released. Lit and Latte are out as well. It is publicized through the tidings and ministry newsletter.
Long Term Celebration – Oct 10, 2015 for 50 years for our main building. The church was founded in 1867. Larry is currently doing research on these dates and why the people came here. This should be educational and inspiring to us all!!
Perhaps a committee could be started to begin to plan for this event.
Attendance trends/Budget trends
Trend is that we are down just a bit. Adult attendance was not reported. The trend for 2011 is steady – not inclining or declining. The two adult services at 10:30 are steady. 8:30 attendance is on the up. Laura shared that the 10:30 contemporary service is not starting on time; consequently attendance may be declining. This will be addressed. The shift in time from 9 to 10:30 may be the reason for a decline in attendance. Children may be going to the KidZone instead of Sunday School due to times of services. Overall attendance is flat. There was discussion on the composition of those attending certain services. We need a strategy for reaching new people and how we do that. In 1990 there were probably 300 service in a service. Currently we have a total of about 200. (We are declining – and have to ask WHY?) We have to analyze WHY – deaths, moving. Key aspect – what is our retention rate of visitors? Mark and Liz call the kids, and if adults leave enough information, we call adults also. Does Martha still drop a loaf of bread to new visitors? We have opportunity to change how we welcome new people/visitors. We need to work on the follow up. Paul Sipson that the worship committee is starting up again this month.
Finance Report:
Chris Hipp reported: For the month of September, General Fund giving at $24.3k matched spending, leaving the General Fund balance at -$5.3k. Giving through September is at $259.9k, with a year-end forecast of $364.7k. In September we again made no monthly apportionment payment to conserve cash.
The Capital Fund is at $37.1k, vs. $31.2k in 2010.
In 2011 we have 135 pledges, totaling $279.5k for the General Fund. Through September we have received $209.5k, 99% of the pledged amount, ytd.
we have had 250 active giving units so far this year.
The Trustees made several suggestions on how to minimize spending over the remainder of the year. They are considering two:
Paying our winter plowing bill on a monthly basis rather than the historic single payment, and deferring the fire alarm testing/maintenance contract until early in 2012.
The Trustees agreed to pay $1200 for new computers as a capital item, per agreement with the former pastor.
The 2012 Stewardship Campaign will be conducted on two Sundays:
11/13 and 11/20. Two letters will be sent as part of this campaign.
The Christmas appeal will be targeted at fully paying our apportionments.
We have already paid 60% of our apportionments. Larry explained the apportionments are the base of the giving of the church. Keep praying and don’t get defensive! We need to be good stewards of what we have. There is plenty of upside! We did have a few “substantive” givers that moved away that had a big impact on our budget.
Apportionments are based on what you spend on the operations of your church. It is being changed to a straight percentage based on income of the church. It is about 16% of our revenue. Larry reminded us that we need to have a voice in the district and the conference. If we pay all our apportionments, we have a loud voice in what is happening at the district and conference level.
SPRC
Charlie reported that SPRC met on October 10, 2011.
1. The 2012 budget was discussed and the need to review every staff position to see that it meets the churches strategic mission needs in light of the current budget shortfall and changes for the 2012 budget will considered. Any changes will be recommended to the CC as the 2012 revenue estimates become available. At this time it appears we have a staff size and cost that is above the anticipated revenue and what is normal for a church our size.
2. The Music director search is continuing. The committee has several additional candidates that they are auditioning. Jane Faruga is the interim music director and Jan Peters is directing the bells.
3. The SPRC met with the new District Superintendant on October 10. We reviewed our annual agenda and tasks. The SPRC is complying with the conference required activities.
Bobbie reported that there are three gentlemen for the position of Choir director. They are pretty equal. Each are versed on instrumental vs. choral music. Each has had an “audition” during choir rehearsal. Even though none are Methodist, they all agreed they would feel comfortable in our service. The determining factor may end up being the salary for the position.
Committee would like to know if they submit name and salary to SPRC? Yes, submit all to SPRC – and Charlie said they would go by the recommendation of the committee. It has been requested that the candidate be flexible with music styles. Each finalist knew what committee was talking about when ministry was discussed.
There seems to be an issue with the sound in the sanctuary. It will be looked at and hopefully corrected.
Charlie reported that the committee would take a look at the staff and budget for stewardship purposed.
CE Report from Blog
We are please to say the 2011 year is off to a bang. Our 10:30 kidzone numbers are up and there is an excitement in the air that the New Year brings.
We are very happy to say that our regular 9Am Sunday school is doing very well. This year we are doing “Rock Solid” as a curriculum and the students seemed pleased.
Our 10:30 Kidzone has been split up into two separate groups.
Our junior kidzone Starts at Pre-3 and goes to 1st grade. We have had several new students attend this service geared to their ages.
Also our Kidzone ranges from 2rd grade to 5th grade, yet again this is age specific geared to student s needs. We always have a good time learning about Jesus
We also have a wonderful nursery program which is open from Infant to 3 years old. We are sensitive to the children’s needs and always provide excellent care.
This event is coming up quick, but our trunk or treat is this Saturday October the 22rd. The event starts at 3pm and runs to 5pm. We will have several trunks lined up in a row where kids can trick or treat and have a good time. We are Partnering with the Girl Scouts and am expecting a wonderful time.
Thank Mark and Liz Von Wald
Other comments:
Mark commented that we really need to have our own personal prayer time for our church and all concerns us. Charlie encouraged us to share should anyone have ideas for fundraising or anything else.
Paul reported that Fall Festival netted about $4000 profit. Any new ideas for next year are welcome. There is a lot of competition.
Tom DeLoughery and Larry have been talking about his ministry project – a counseling office in Amherst. There has been discussion on having “space” at Trinity. If he were here, it would more Christian related. The cost to the church is nothing. It would be a draw to people as well as a help to our own people. Trustees are in agreement and would help locate space available for him. Larry requested that we consider allowing Tom to do this here at church. Tom is insured, and we need to review our insurance and how this would fit with Safe Sanctuary. He is also interested in going to Sister’s Hospital and taking their counseling course. Tom is developing his counseling model around Pastor Larry’s sermons on grace. He has a very holistic approach and would work very well with Anne Hipp. Motion to proceed to pilot a program for Tom by Sue Kaiser and seconded by Sheila Rader. Motion passed unanimously. Trustees will work with him to find a good space and not to conflict with other people/organizations.
Pastor’s Comments:
Larry encouraged us to continue to pray and not get discouraged! We need to stay spiritually strong. “With God, all things are possible.” The core message is a strong message. Try not to get negative or reactive. We will deal with the bumps in the road as they come up.
Motion to approve September Church council minutes by Chris Hipp, seconded by Paul Sipson. Passed as presented.
Church Charge Council minutes were approved. Motion to approve by Chris seconded by Bobbie Cap. Pass unanimously.
Next meeting is November 21 – 6:30 leadership and Council at 7:15. All are welcome to the leadership.
Sue Kaiser thanked Pastor Larry for his willingness to allow us to pray during our meeting.
She then closed the meeting in prayer.
Meeting adjourned at 9:05 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Conschafter
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
Finance Report for October 2011
October Finance Committee report to Church Council
For the month of September, General Fund giving at $24.3k matched spending, leaving the General Fund balance at -$5.3k. Giving through September is at $259.9k, with a year-end forecast of $364.7k. In September we again made no monthly apportionment payment to conserve cash.
The Capital Fund is at $37.1k, vs. $31.2k in 2010.
In 2011 we have 135 pledges, totaling $279.5k for the General Fund. Through September we have received $209.5k, 99% of the pledged amount, ytd.
we have had 250 active giving units so far this year.
The Trustees made several suggestions on how to minimize spending over the remainder of the year. They are considering two:
Paying our winter plowing bill on a monthly basis rather than the historic single payment, and deferring the fire alarm testing/maintenance contract until early in 2012.
The Trustees agreed to pay $1200 for new computers as a capital item, per agreement with the former pastor.
The 2012 Stewardship Campaign will be conducted on two Sundays:
11/13 and 11/20. Two letters will be sent as part of this campaign.
The Christmas appeal will be targeted at fully paying our apportionments..
Chris Hipp - Chair Finance Committee
For the month of September, General Fund giving at $24.3k matched spending, leaving the General Fund balance at -$5.3k. Giving through September is at $259.9k, with a year-end forecast of $364.7k. In September we again made no monthly apportionment payment to conserve cash.
The Capital Fund is at $37.1k, vs. $31.2k in 2010.
In 2011 we have 135 pledges, totaling $279.5k for the General Fund. Through September we have received $209.5k, 99% of the pledged amount, ytd.
we have had 250 active giving units so far this year.
The Trustees made several suggestions on how to minimize spending over the remainder of the year. They are considering two:
Paying our winter plowing bill on a monthly basis rather than the historic single payment, and deferring the fire alarm testing/maintenance contract until early in 2012.
The Trustees agreed to pay $1200 for new computers as a capital item, per agreement with the former pastor.
The 2012 Stewardship Campaign will be conducted on two Sundays:
11/13 and 11/20. Two letters will be sent as part of this campaign.
The Christmas appeal will be targeted at fully paying our apportionments..
Chris Hipp - Chair Finance Committee
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Minutes from Church Charge Council - October 2011
Church Charge Council Meeting
October 10, 2011
Pastor Cassen Wayne Butler shared scripture and his story to open meeting. “Keep your mind, your eyes, and your ears open to be ready for when God calls you.” He then opened with prayer.
In Attendance: Chris Hipp, Anne Hipp, Jay Martin, Martha Martin, Pastor Larry Baird, Chris Sipson, Paul Sipson, Pastor Nate Lange, Bobbie Cap, Bob Kaiser, Sue Kaiser, Mark VonWald, Margaret Giles, Sheila Rader, Diane Blume, Donna LaVallee, Linda Harbison, John Harbison, Anne Fetzer, Jan Garrison, Elaine Johnson, Jaz Jablonski, Bob Eldred, Gail Conschafter.
Gail was elected as secretary. Secretary was asked to send an electronic copy of minutes to District office.
Reports:
Lay Leaders
Elaine Johnson reported for the three lay leaders – herself, Tracy Swartzmeyer, and Jim Ellson. First item for the committee was plan to laity Sunday. The committee also took responsibility for greeting new faces and also to listen to members with concerns. To honor our outstanding lay person, Charlie Yund was selected.
Pastoral Compensation packages have been presented to the Church Council.
Nate’s package was presented first. Nate has opted out of pension at this point. Total package is $21,750. This is a half time position. Elaine pointed out that Nate is acting as a Youth Coordinator. Martha Martin questioned as to whether there was any compensation for his housing. A housing compensation package will be voted on at a later date. That is also listed as part of his package. The vote was taken and passed unanimously.
Larry’s package totals $84,659.38. Travel money for conference comes from a different account and is not part of his package. A vote was taken and passed unanimously.
Pastor Butler reminded us that we certainly have a gift with our Associate and Head pastors.
Stewardship referred to Chris Hipp of Finance.
Finance
Chris reported that we are not in a position to present a budget for next year, as we have not had a stewardship campaign. Stewardship campaign is in progress and will be presented in November. Chris shared what we have done in the past.
Nominations
Ballots for positions were distributed. Trustees already elected are Bob Kaiser, Sharon Nicholson, Jill Atkinson, John Gast, Tim Phillips, Carol Dearlove. Votes will be taken for Arlyn Pifer, Jan Garrison, and perhaps one more. No more nominations were offered. Motion to close nom was made by Chris Hipp and seconded by Charlie Yund.
Leadership Development committee. Colleen Marx and Margaret Giles have been previously elected. Those needed to be elected are Bill Schall, Martha Martin, Larry Fetzer, and Linda Harbison. Nate asked to check last years’ charge conference minutes to see if Chris Bidell was elected. If he was elected, his name will just appear as elected. If he was not elected last year, we are going to place his name on this years’ ballot and elect him this year. Ballots were collected and tallied.
Pastor Butler gave ballots to secretary to be included with the hard copy of the minutes.
Lay Speakers
Four certified lay speakers – Fred Claus, Mark VonWald, Thom Volk , Bobbie Cap – have filled out reports as to what participating activities they have participated in. Pastor Butler asked all to vote by saying Halleluiah! They were voted in unanimously and thanked with a round of applause.
Pastor Butler what is happening in our conference. He brought bags for Trinity 5000 program. He suggested we put up our progress up on our web site. The ad for Hands 4 helping was in the Buffalo News yesterday. (October 9, 2011)
Safe Sanctuary did not need addressing, as we already have a policy in place.
Africa University choir was here in Kenmore and some head them locally and some went to Rochester. Goal is to start an endowment fund to fund scholarship money. The goal is a million dollars. There is no deadline for this fund. Fay Cleveland is our district rep to bring this to the forefront.
We have already updated our church profile.
Committee on Native American Ministries is asking that we have a contact person to send information to in order to publicize what is going on.
We also have to vote on housing exclusion for Pastor Larry. This allows the pastor to take a portion of his salary and put it into an allowance to provide a home. Cleaning supplies, lawn care. This does not come in addition to the salary but is earmarked as part of his salary. Pastor is to keep records to verify what was used. Pastor Larry’s inclusion is $4000. They would have to prove their expenses if they were audited. If they do not use the full amount the remainder would be then included in taxable income to the pastor. This was approved unanimously.
A moment of celebration was shared as we affirmed Nate for candidacy. Pastor Larry asked for a moment of privilege and shared a story about Nate. Nate thanked the group for allowing him to minister here at TUMC. Nate grew up at Trinity. Vote was taken by ballot and passed unanimously.
The best thing that has happened over the past year was that we raised enough money to build a clinic in Haiti. The cost is $71,000 – which took a little over 2 years to raise. Our church contributed over $15,000. We have trusted the conference with our pastoral leadership. We have been very involved with refugee settlement.
If we had a prayer for TUMC for the next five years what would that be?
1. Clean water provision for those that do not have it.
2. We as a church would grown in our faith, knowledge of Jesus Christ and be able to share that outside our walls.
3. To be able to contact those members and attendees that are still out there and invite them back into our church.
4. We would have the programs and/or ministries that would draw people into our church.
5. We would have a group of all ages filling our pews on a regular basis.
Pastor Butler asked that we keep these items in our daily prayers and what we might do to put hands and feet to these prayers.
Homework:
“Leaders need to have the right questions.” Choose one of these questions and discuss them. Write down some of your responses.
Please send within the next four months to DS Butler.
Question 1 – if your church closed tomorrow – other than your members – who would miss it?
DS Butler thanked the group for being present and asked that God bless us all. God has called us by name – marked, named, and claimed by God.
Meeting adjourned at 9:50 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Conschafter
October 10, 2011
Pastor Cassen Wayne Butler shared scripture and his story to open meeting. “Keep your mind, your eyes, and your ears open to be ready for when God calls you.” He then opened with prayer.
In Attendance: Chris Hipp, Anne Hipp, Jay Martin, Martha Martin, Pastor Larry Baird, Chris Sipson, Paul Sipson, Pastor Nate Lange, Bobbie Cap, Bob Kaiser, Sue Kaiser, Mark VonWald, Margaret Giles, Sheila Rader, Diane Blume, Donna LaVallee, Linda Harbison, John Harbison, Anne Fetzer, Jan Garrison, Elaine Johnson, Jaz Jablonski, Bob Eldred, Gail Conschafter.
Gail was elected as secretary. Secretary was asked to send an electronic copy of minutes to District office.
Reports:
Lay Leaders
Elaine Johnson reported for the three lay leaders – herself, Tracy Swartzmeyer, and Jim Ellson. First item for the committee was plan to laity Sunday. The committee also took responsibility for greeting new faces and also to listen to members with concerns. To honor our outstanding lay person, Charlie Yund was selected.
Pastoral Compensation packages have been presented to the Church Council.
Nate’s package was presented first. Nate has opted out of pension at this point. Total package is $21,750. This is a half time position. Elaine pointed out that Nate is acting as a Youth Coordinator. Martha Martin questioned as to whether there was any compensation for his housing. A housing compensation package will be voted on at a later date. That is also listed as part of his package. The vote was taken and passed unanimously.
Larry’s package totals $84,659.38. Travel money for conference comes from a different account and is not part of his package. A vote was taken and passed unanimously.
Pastor Butler reminded us that we certainly have a gift with our Associate and Head pastors.
Stewardship referred to Chris Hipp of Finance.
Finance
Chris reported that we are not in a position to present a budget for next year, as we have not had a stewardship campaign. Stewardship campaign is in progress and will be presented in November. Chris shared what we have done in the past.
Nominations
Ballots for positions were distributed. Trustees already elected are Bob Kaiser, Sharon Nicholson, Jill Atkinson, John Gast, Tim Phillips, Carol Dearlove. Votes will be taken for Arlyn Pifer, Jan Garrison, and perhaps one more. No more nominations were offered. Motion to close nom was made by Chris Hipp and seconded by Charlie Yund.
Leadership Development committee. Colleen Marx and Margaret Giles have been previously elected. Those needed to be elected are Bill Schall, Martha Martin, Larry Fetzer, and Linda Harbison. Nate asked to check last years’ charge conference minutes to see if Chris Bidell was elected. If he was elected, his name will just appear as elected. If he was not elected last year, we are going to place his name on this years’ ballot and elect him this year. Ballots were collected and tallied.
Pastor Butler gave ballots to secretary to be included with the hard copy of the minutes.
Lay Speakers
Four certified lay speakers – Fred Claus, Mark VonWald, Thom Volk , Bobbie Cap – have filled out reports as to what participating activities they have participated in. Pastor Butler asked all to vote by saying Halleluiah! They were voted in unanimously and thanked with a round of applause.
Pastor Butler what is happening in our conference. He brought bags for Trinity 5000 program. He suggested we put up our progress up on our web site. The ad for Hands 4 helping was in the Buffalo News yesterday. (October 9, 2011)
Safe Sanctuary did not need addressing, as we already have a policy in place.
Africa University choir was here in Kenmore and some head them locally and some went to Rochester. Goal is to start an endowment fund to fund scholarship money. The goal is a million dollars. There is no deadline for this fund. Fay Cleveland is our district rep to bring this to the forefront.
We have already updated our church profile.
Committee on Native American Ministries is asking that we have a contact person to send information to in order to publicize what is going on.
We also have to vote on housing exclusion for Pastor Larry. This allows the pastor to take a portion of his salary and put it into an allowance to provide a home. Cleaning supplies, lawn care. This does not come in addition to the salary but is earmarked as part of his salary. Pastor is to keep records to verify what was used. Pastor Larry’s inclusion is $4000. They would have to prove their expenses if they were audited. If they do not use the full amount the remainder would be then included in taxable income to the pastor. This was approved unanimously.
A moment of celebration was shared as we affirmed Nate for candidacy. Pastor Larry asked for a moment of privilege and shared a story about Nate. Nate thanked the group for allowing him to minister here at TUMC. Nate grew up at Trinity. Vote was taken by ballot and passed unanimously.
The best thing that has happened over the past year was that we raised enough money to build a clinic in Haiti. The cost is $71,000 – which took a little over 2 years to raise. Our church contributed over $15,000. We have trusted the conference with our pastoral leadership. We have been very involved with refugee settlement.
If we had a prayer for TUMC for the next five years what would that be?
1. Clean water provision for those that do not have it.
2. We as a church would grown in our faith, knowledge of Jesus Christ and be able to share that outside our walls.
3. To be able to contact those members and attendees that are still out there and invite them back into our church.
4. We would have the programs and/or ministries that would draw people into our church.
5. We would have a group of all ages filling our pews on a regular basis.
Pastor Butler asked that we keep these items in our daily prayers and what we might do to put hands and feet to these prayers.
Homework:
“Leaders need to have the right questions.” Choose one of these questions and discuss them. Write down some of your responses.
Please send within the next four months to DS Butler.
Question 1 – if your church closed tomorrow – other than your members – who would miss it?
DS Butler thanked the group for being present and asked that God bless us all. God has called us by name – marked, named, and claimed by God.
Meeting adjourned at 9:50 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Conschafter
Agenda for October's Meeting
October 17, 2011 Church Council Agenda
Call to order: Charlie Yund
Unison reading of the proposed Trinity mission statement:
Empowered by God, Trinity Church will
Follow Jesus, Develop Disciples, and Transform the World.
Welcome and roll call: Secretary Gail Conschafter
Opening prayer
Changes to agenda
New Business:
Major calendar events
• Fall winter important dates
• Long term celebrations Trinity main building turn 50 on 2014
and Trinity at 150 years in?
- Attendance trends / Budget trends
- SPRC issues
2012 budget impact
- Questions or comments on reports
- Pastor comments
Approve minutes from June, Church Council, September
Unfinished business
Next Meeting: November 21, 2011
Closing prayer and adjournment
Call to order: Charlie Yund
Unison reading of the proposed Trinity mission statement:
Empowered by God, Trinity Church will
Follow Jesus, Develop Disciples, and Transform the World.
Welcome and roll call: Secretary Gail Conschafter
Opening prayer
Changes to agenda
New Business:
Major calendar events
• Fall winter important dates
• Long term celebrations Trinity main building turn 50 on 2014
and Trinity at 150 years in?
- Attendance trends / Budget trends
- SPRC issues
2012 budget impact
- Questions or comments on reports
- Pastor comments
Approve minutes from June, Church Council, September
Unfinished business
Next Meeting: November 21, 2011
Closing prayer and adjournment
Worship Report for October 2011
Our first "reorganizational meeting" with Larry is Tuesday, the 18th. No report now.
CE Report for October 2011
CE Report
We are please to say the 2011 year is off to a bang. Our 10:30 kidzone numbers are up and there is an excitement in the air that the New Year brings.
We are very happy to say that our regular 9Am Sunday school is doing very well. This year we are doing “Rock Solid” as a curriculum and the students seemed pleased.
Our 10:30 Kidzone has been split up into two separate groups.
Our junior kidzone Starts at Pre-3 and goes to 1st grade. We have had several new students attend this service geared to their ages.
Also our Kidzone ranges from 2rd grade to 5th grade, yet again this is age specific geared to student s needs. We always have a good time learning about Jesus
We also have a wonderful nursery program which is open from Infant to 3 years old. We are sensitive to the children’s needs and always provide excellent care.
This event is coming up quick, but our trunk or treat is this Saturday October the 22rd. The event starts at 3pm and runs to 5pm. We will have several trunks lined up in a row where kids can trick or treat and have a good time. We are Partnering with the Girl Scouts and am expecting a wonderful time.
Thank Mark and Liz Von Wald
We are please to say the 2011 year is off to a bang. Our 10:30 kidzone numbers are up and there is an excitement in the air that the New Year brings.
We are very happy to say that our regular 9Am Sunday school is doing very well. This year we are doing “Rock Solid” as a curriculum and the students seemed pleased.
Our 10:30 Kidzone has been split up into two separate groups.
Our junior kidzone Starts at Pre-3 and goes to 1st grade. We have had several new students attend this service geared to their ages.
Also our Kidzone ranges from 2rd grade to 5th grade, yet again this is age specific geared to student s needs. We always have a good time learning about Jesus
We also have a wonderful nursery program which is open from Infant to 3 years old. We are sensitive to the children’s needs and always provide excellent care.
This event is coming up quick, but our trunk or treat is this Saturday October the 22rd. The event starts at 3pm and runs to 5pm. We will have several trunks lined up in a row where kids can trick or treat and have a good time. We are Partnering with the Girl Scouts and am expecting a wonderful time.
Thank Mark and Liz Von Wald
SPRC Report October 2011
The SPRC met on October 10, 2011.
1. The 2012 budget was discussed and the need to review every staff position to see that it meets the churches strategic mission needs in light of the current budget shortfall and changes for the 2012 budget will considered. Any changes will be recommended to the CC as the 2012 revenue estimates become available. At this time it appears we have a staff size and cost that is above the anticipated revenue and what is normal for a church our size.
2. The Music director search is continuing. The committee has several additional candidates that they are auditioning. Jane Faruga is the interim music director and Jan Peters is directing the bells.
3. The SPRC met with the new District Superintendant on October 10. We reviewed our annual agenda and tasks. The SPRC is complying with the conference required activities.
1. The 2012 budget was discussed and the need to review every staff position to see that it meets the churches strategic mission needs in light of the current budget shortfall and changes for the 2012 budget will considered. Any changes will be recommended to the CC as the 2012 revenue estimates become available. At this time it appears we have a staff size and cost that is above the anticipated revenue and what is normal for a church our size.
2. The Music director search is continuing. The committee has several additional candidates that they are auditioning. Jane Faruga is the interim music director and Jan Peters is directing the bells.
3. The SPRC met with the new District Superintendant on October 10. We reviewed our annual agenda and tasks. The SPRC is complying with the conference required activities.
Minutes from September 2011
Trinity Church Council Meeting
September 19, 2011
Attendees: Charlie Yund, Pastor Larry, Sue Kaiser, Bob Kaiser, Jan Garrison, Gail Conschafter, Liz VonWald, Mark VonWald, Sheila Rader, Chris Hipp, Ginger Mason, Jim Tamsen, John Jones
Charlie opened the meeting with the unison reading of the proposed mission statement.
Discussion on the proposed mission statement followed the reading. Charlie prayed.
Changes to agenda; CE would like to report.
NEW BUSINESS
Vision Statement Thematic Goal was addressed by Pastor Larry. The thematic goal would change periodically to capture everything that is in the mission of the vision. (once a year) It is not an alteration, just a re-capture. Building Bridges to the Foot of the Cross is that theme. There has been positive feedback on that.
Calendar Rally Day was Sept 11 – good participation and help. Great job!
Fall Festival – Sept 30 – YOUTH music
Oct 1 – Activities
Oct 14 – 15 – Women’s Retreat
Nov 4-5 Retreat with Sr. Mary Jo at Stella Niagara
Concerts – there has been talk about not doing a concert with not having a Director of Music in place.
All Women’s dates are on the calendar.
December 10 Kris Kringle kid’s shop and gift wrap for all.
Mark presented activities:
1. Trunk or Treat – Saturday, October 22 approximately 4- 6 PM. The girl Scouts would like to do a spooky basement to supplement the Trunk or Treat. More cars this year would be great. You can decorate your trunk and hand out candy to the kids. Each troop would be responsible for having ONE car. Publicity is the key!
2. Christmas Play – incorporated into the Sunday Service. Suggested date – December 18 at the 10:30 service. Time frame would be no more than 20 minutes. Sacred dance is no more than 5 minutes perhaps on December 11 – during Introit.
December 25 – there will be ONE service at 10:30 AM.
December 24 – services will remain the same as in the past. (5:00, 7:00, and 11:00 PM)
Advent Dinner – Ellie Robinson suggested December 7 at 5:30 hosted by Women’s’ Group.
• Larry commented that all activities need to be reviewed as to purpose and why we do what we do. This is to avoid doing the same thing again and again.
• Ginger commented on the fact that perhaps there should be some sort of a “paper trail” following an event…. To evaluate the event and its success and did it meet the goal of the event. Sheila suggested that a form to be filed after the event.
50th Year Celebration October 11, 2015
Ginger commented that Historic Trinity did an excellent job in representing the church a
when they presented a few years back.
Attendance Trends
8:00 Service – avg 22
Comtemp. – 48
Traditional - 126
We have seen a drop over the past years. We have done a number of things to try to increase attendance.
Larry commented that the reality is we have 300 people that consider this their church home and come to church on a “significant” Sunday. The objective is to make those come on a more consistent basis and want for them to be here. If we want to see the 300, we need to increase the base of 300 to 400. There was discussion about doing something for the young parents that drop their kids off for Sunday School. We should probably get attendance figures for all Sunday School classes. Charlie will talk to Linda about getting a universal book for all Sunday School attendance.
The trend is not where we want it to be. We need to move in a positive direction. Ginger posed the question “What drew US into the fellowship of the church?” Bob suggested we ask the most recent members as to why they joined. Charlie commented and asked if we welcomed a new face.
Budget Trends
We need to come up with $30,000. (shortfall) We have had this problem when we have had an associate pastor. Sue questioned as if we could/would have a “make up the difference” campaign. People have actually given more money than they pledged, but expenses are higher than we expected. Giving in the last quarter has dropped off. There is no connection to the number of people in the pews and the money brought in. We need to look at our spending. We are paying for things that we used to do with volunteers. SPRC will look at all aspects and evaluate each one. We have added services over the past years and are paying for them. Energy usage is being looked at. There may be some difficult decisions to be made. Staff related expenses are 2/3 of the budget. At this point we are not paying apportionments to make up for the shortfall. We paid our apportionments in full last year. Our staff is larger than other churches of similar size. Charlie will go through all items and report back to us with a recommendation by October’s meeting.
Bob commented that we might need to reassess our basic philosophy. When we made the additions to the budget earlier this year, we were looking at the increase in revenue that was projected. (The revenue predictor indicated that we would be ok.) We were over optimistic and now need to re-evaluate. There was a suggestion made that the fundraising group tithe back to the church. This makes it a pattern of practicing what you preach. Charlie’s goal is a balanced budget for next year.
October 10 – Council meeting with district superintendant.
SPRC – Compensation package (see blog) Motion to approve Larry’s package was made by Jan Garrison and seconded by Sue Kaiser. Motion passed unanimously. Ginny has not been replaced and Nate has taken on some of the Youth responsibilities. Nate will be taking over the parsonage that Ginny will be vacating. The insurance decrease is a trade off. Motion to approve Nate’s package was made by Chris Hipp and seconded by Sheila Rader. Discussion followed. We need the two appointed compensations approved by Oct 10 when DS Butler comes. There was a question as to the increase in utilities for the parsonage for the upcoming year. Larry commented that we COULD wait until we have a better idea about next years’ budget. Discussion followed. Motion passed unanimously.
Trustees Report
A new roof has been installed on the gym at Historic Trinity. Looks good. Cost: $13,750, less insurance payments (for the wind damaged half of the roof) of $6100.
A direction sign pointing the way to key places in both church buildings is ready for installation. It is expected to be in place beside the driveway, near the sidewalk to the front of door of Historic Trinity, by this Sunday. Total cost: $200.
A 20’ x 40’ tent was bought and used for Rally Day and is planned to be used for the Fall Festival on Oct 1. Cost: $2300, paid from a Memorial Fund donation in memory of Jan Hughes.
More than fifty Women of the Word held their first weekly meeting here this past Thursday. This is being treated largely as if it were a Trinity in-house program. A donation of $1200-$1300 is anticipated from W.O.W.
Prayer Ministry Report
The Island Prayer Group has continued to meet over the summer, for two of those months, with the Lighthouse Fellowship. Their pastors, Gerard and Maureen Haberstro, and a small group of parishioners met with us one time, to recreate their weekly prayer service. Beryl Kinney and I were warmly welcomed and prayed over and personal as well as Island spiritual issues were prayed for. On the second evening, Pastor Dan Stinson and his wife, Linda, who have a house church in their home on Baseline Rd. met with us. Dan is especially trained to work with drug and alcohol concerns and has been working with the Middle and High School, Young Life and with GI town folk on such issues. Dan is also part of the GI Ministerium.
Some of my time was spent in meeting with the new pastor at Island Presbyterian and having some conversations about whether we as churches could lead a service of remembrance on 9/11 but it seems there was not time and interest to do that. At least I talked to someone at the DeGlopper Post and they too were involved in helping the NF Air Show that weekend.
We followed a lead from Linda McGuire to have a prayer garden set up in the prayer room on 9/11 for those who might want to light a candle for someone special or those who were lost. That was set-up but not well enough publicized or recognized from the pulpit and competing with all the other things going on – Rally Day – it was used by only a few. Unfortunately other competing meetings or activities for our pastors had been made far in advance so no participation was possible.
As we begin the fall program season there will be a trial period when two prayer groups will meet in the evening...with Lani Burkman taking leadership in on Monday, this month on the 19th and 20th ...to accommodate different people’s schedules. Next month we may be meeting at the Episcopal Church for at least one night and hope to attend other churches to experience their prayer practices. Our expectation is to return to the second Mon. Tues. schedule in Oct.
Hopeful that others will join us, both pastors and lay persons when we will continue to pray for the Island and our lives together.
I have personally taken a break from teaching an adult Christian Ed class on prayer this fall. Some future plans for more prayer in and after worship are still in the planning stage.
With prayers for our life together here at Trinity and our new pastoral team of Rev. Baird and Rev. Lange and their families. Prayer Ministries Coordinator, Rev. Sue Kaiser, retired
CE Report
This year for Sunday School there will be a Junior Elementary class (Grades K-2) taught by Jeri Wright and Mary Von Wald. This will be held in the classroom next to the lounge. There will also be a Senior Elementary class (Grades 3-5) taught by Nikki Fidel, Keira Hayes, and Judy Johnson. This class will be held downstairs in the Kidzone. The curriculum for both classes is Rock Solid.
This year Kidzone will also be split in Junior Elementary and Senior Elementary. The Senior Elementary group taught by Mark Von Wald and will continue to be held in the Kidzone. The Junior Elementary group taught by Liz Von Wald will be held in the classroom next to the Christian Education office. There will also be one adult volunteering with both groups on a rotating basis. Kidzone will continue to be run like a Junior Church with worship, bible lessons, drama, and interactive crafts and activities. Kids will continue to be signed in before the service in the Family Room and will attend the first ten minutes of the service with their teachers.
Rally Day was a huge success with 26 children registering for Kidzone and Sunday School. There are still several families that have yet to register. We have also called and invited children who attended VBS without a home church to join us.
Pastor comments:
“Be of good cheer.” Larry has been reviewing past decisions. WE have about 300 people that really do care about this church in some significant way. That is a good critical mass for a church this size. We are still at a point where recovery is not too hard. WE need to think about faith and nurturing peoples’ faith and how it impacts their everyday life. The tendency to fix the budget is to cut. IF we have to do this, please, let’s do this strategically. Churches that are focused on faith issues and practice tithing, are growing today. Tithing goes with nurturing of the faith. We need to be focused on our mission statement and our vision statement. Larry does not preach from a manuscript and has been asked for copies of sermon. What will be done is to offer a sermon summary.
Ginger shared she had a phone call from a person who raised her kids in this church. She was invited to attend WOW. It brought to mind that brought up the question: “when was the last time WE invited someone to here or any of our activities.”
Approval of June’s Minutes tabled until next month.
Next meeting October 17, 2011 at 7 PM
Closing prayer by Pastor Larry
Meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Conschafter
September 19, 2011
Attendees: Charlie Yund, Pastor Larry, Sue Kaiser, Bob Kaiser, Jan Garrison, Gail Conschafter, Liz VonWald, Mark VonWald, Sheila Rader, Chris Hipp, Ginger Mason, Jim Tamsen, John Jones
Charlie opened the meeting with the unison reading of the proposed mission statement.
Discussion on the proposed mission statement followed the reading. Charlie prayed.
Changes to agenda; CE would like to report.
NEW BUSINESS
Vision Statement Thematic Goal was addressed by Pastor Larry. The thematic goal would change periodically to capture everything that is in the mission of the vision. (once a year) It is not an alteration, just a re-capture. Building Bridges to the Foot of the Cross is that theme. There has been positive feedback on that.
Calendar Rally Day was Sept 11 – good participation and help. Great job!
Fall Festival – Sept 30 – YOUTH music
Oct 1 – Activities
Oct 14 – 15 – Women’s Retreat
Nov 4-5 Retreat with Sr. Mary Jo at Stella Niagara
Concerts – there has been talk about not doing a concert with not having a Director of Music in place.
All Women’s dates are on the calendar.
December 10 Kris Kringle kid’s shop and gift wrap for all.
Mark presented activities:
1. Trunk or Treat – Saturday, October 22 approximately 4- 6 PM. The girl Scouts would like to do a spooky basement to supplement the Trunk or Treat. More cars this year would be great. You can decorate your trunk and hand out candy to the kids. Each troop would be responsible for having ONE car. Publicity is the key!
2. Christmas Play – incorporated into the Sunday Service. Suggested date – December 18 at the 10:30 service. Time frame would be no more than 20 minutes. Sacred dance is no more than 5 minutes perhaps on December 11 – during Introit.
December 25 – there will be ONE service at 10:30 AM.
December 24 – services will remain the same as in the past. (5:00, 7:00, and 11:00 PM)
Advent Dinner – Ellie Robinson suggested December 7 at 5:30 hosted by Women’s’ Group.
• Larry commented that all activities need to be reviewed as to purpose and why we do what we do. This is to avoid doing the same thing again and again.
• Ginger commented on the fact that perhaps there should be some sort of a “paper trail” following an event…. To evaluate the event and its success and did it meet the goal of the event. Sheila suggested that a form to be filed after the event.
50th Year Celebration October 11, 2015
Ginger commented that Historic Trinity did an excellent job in representing the church a
when they presented a few years back.
Attendance Trends
8:00 Service – avg 22
Comtemp. – 48
Traditional - 126
We have seen a drop over the past years. We have done a number of things to try to increase attendance.
Larry commented that the reality is we have 300 people that consider this their church home and come to church on a “significant” Sunday. The objective is to make those come on a more consistent basis and want for them to be here. If we want to see the 300, we need to increase the base of 300 to 400. There was discussion about doing something for the young parents that drop their kids off for Sunday School. We should probably get attendance figures for all Sunday School classes. Charlie will talk to Linda about getting a universal book for all Sunday School attendance.
The trend is not where we want it to be. We need to move in a positive direction. Ginger posed the question “What drew US into the fellowship of the church?” Bob suggested we ask the most recent members as to why they joined. Charlie commented and asked if we welcomed a new face.
Budget Trends
We need to come up with $30,000. (shortfall) We have had this problem when we have had an associate pastor. Sue questioned as if we could/would have a “make up the difference” campaign. People have actually given more money than they pledged, but expenses are higher than we expected. Giving in the last quarter has dropped off. There is no connection to the number of people in the pews and the money brought in. We need to look at our spending. We are paying for things that we used to do with volunteers. SPRC will look at all aspects and evaluate each one. We have added services over the past years and are paying for them. Energy usage is being looked at. There may be some difficult decisions to be made. Staff related expenses are 2/3 of the budget. At this point we are not paying apportionments to make up for the shortfall. We paid our apportionments in full last year. Our staff is larger than other churches of similar size. Charlie will go through all items and report back to us with a recommendation by October’s meeting.
Bob commented that we might need to reassess our basic philosophy. When we made the additions to the budget earlier this year, we were looking at the increase in revenue that was projected. (The revenue predictor indicated that we would be ok.) We were over optimistic and now need to re-evaluate. There was a suggestion made that the fundraising group tithe back to the church. This makes it a pattern of practicing what you preach. Charlie’s goal is a balanced budget for next year.
October 10 – Council meeting with district superintendant.
SPRC – Compensation package (see blog) Motion to approve Larry’s package was made by Jan Garrison and seconded by Sue Kaiser. Motion passed unanimously. Ginny has not been replaced and Nate has taken on some of the Youth responsibilities. Nate will be taking over the parsonage that Ginny will be vacating. The insurance decrease is a trade off. Motion to approve Nate’s package was made by Chris Hipp and seconded by Sheila Rader. Discussion followed. We need the two appointed compensations approved by Oct 10 when DS Butler comes. There was a question as to the increase in utilities for the parsonage for the upcoming year. Larry commented that we COULD wait until we have a better idea about next years’ budget. Discussion followed. Motion passed unanimously.
Trustees Report
A new roof has been installed on the gym at Historic Trinity. Looks good. Cost: $13,750, less insurance payments (for the wind damaged half of the roof) of $6100.
A direction sign pointing the way to key places in both church buildings is ready for installation. It is expected to be in place beside the driveway, near the sidewalk to the front of door of Historic Trinity, by this Sunday. Total cost: $200.
A 20’ x 40’ tent was bought and used for Rally Day and is planned to be used for the Fall Festival on Oct 1. Cost: $2300, paid from a Memorial Fund donation in memory of Jan Hughes.
More than fifty Women of the Word held their first weekly meeting here this past Thursday. This is being treated largely as if it were a Trinity in-house program. A donation of $1200-$1300 is anticipated from W.O.W.
Prayer Ministry Report
The Island Prayer Group has continued to meet over the summer, for two of those months, with the Lighthouse Fellowship. Their pastors, Gerard and Maureen Haberstro, and a small group of parishioners met with us one time, to recreate their weekly prayer service. Beryl Kinney and I were warmly welcomed and prayed over and personal as well as Island spiritual issues were prayed for. On the second evening, Pastor Dan Stinson and his wife, Linda, who have a house church in their home on Baseline Rd. met with us. Dan is especially trained to work with drug and alcohol concerns and has been working with the Middle and High School, Young Life and with GI town folk on such issues. Dan is also part of the GI Ministerium.
Some of my time was spent in meeting with the new pastor at Island Presbyterian and having some conversations about whether we as churches could lead a service of remembrance on 9/11 but it seems there was not time and interest to do that. At least I talked to someone at the DeGlopper Post and they too were involved in helping the NF Air Show that weekend.
We followed a lead from Linda McGuire to have a prayer garden set up in the prayer room on 9/11 for those who might want to light a candle for someone special or those who were lost. That was set-up but not well enough publicized or recognized from the pulpit and competing with all the other things going on – Rally Day – it was used by only a few. Unfortunately other competing meetings or activities for our pastors had been made far in advance so no participation was possible.
As we begin the fall program season there will be a trial period when two prayer groups will meet in the evening...with Lani Burkman taking leadership in on Monday, this month on the 19th and 20th ...to accommodate different people’s schedules. Next month we may be meeting at the Episcopal Church for at least one night and hope to attend other churches to experience their prayer practices. Our expectation is to return to the second Mon. Tues. schedule in Oct.
Hopeful that others will join us, both pastors and lay persons when we will continue to pray for the Island and our lives together.
I have personally taken a break from teaching an adult Christian Ed class on prayer this fall. Some future plans for more prayer in and after worship are still in the planning stage.
With prayers for our life together here at Trinity and our new pastoral team of Rev. Baird and Rev. Lange and their families. Prayer Ministries Coordinator, Rev. Sue Kaiser, retired
CE Report
This year for Sunday School there will be a Junior Elementary class (Grades K-2) taught by Jeri Wright and Mary Von Wald. This will be held in the classroom next to the lounge. There will also be a Senior Elementary class (Grades 3-5) taught by Nikki Fidel, Keira Hayes, and Judy Johnson. This class will be held downstairs in the Kidzone. The curriculum for both classes is Rock Solid.
This year Kidzone will also be split in Junior Elementary and Senior Elementary. The Senior Elementary group taught by Mark Von Wald and will continue to be held in the Kidzone. The Junior Elementary group taught by Liz Von Wald will be held in the classroom next to the Christian Education office. There will also be one adult volunteering with both groups on a rotating basis. Kidzone will continue to be run like a Junior Church with worship, bible lessons, drama, and interactive crafts and activities. Kids will continue to be signed in before the service in the Family Room and will attend the first ten minutes of the service with their teachers.
Rally Day was a huge success with 26 children registering for Kidzone and Sunday School. There are still several families that have yet to register. We have also called and invited children who attended VBS without a home church to join us.
Pastor comments:
“Be of good cheer.” Larry has been reviewing past decisions. WE have about 300 people that really do care about this church in some significant way. That is a good critical mass for a church this size. We are still at a point where recovery is not too hard. WE need to think about faith and nurturing peoples’ faith and how it impacts their everyday life. The tendency to fix the budget is to cut. IF we have to do this, please, let’s do this strategically. Churches that are focused on faith issues and practice tithing, are growing today. Tithing goes with nurturing of the faith. We need to be focused on our mission statement and our vision statement. Larry does not preach from a manuscript and has been asked for copies of sermon. What will be done is to offer a sermon summary.
Ginger shared she had a phone call from a person who raised her kids in this church. She was invited to attend WOW. It brought to mind that brought up the question: “when was the last time WE invited someone to here or any of our activities.”
Approval of June’s Minutes tabled until next month.
Next meeting October 17, 2011 at 7 PM
Closing prayer by Pastor Larry
Meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Gail Conschafter
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