Minutes from September 15 Church Council Meeting

Church Council Meeting

Monday, September 15, 2014

Meeting opened with unison reading of the TUMC Mission Statement.

Attendees: Jan Garrison, Larry Baird, Laura Mason, Tom Burkman, John Jones, Charlie Yund, Gail Conschafter, Sheila Rader, Abby Cole, Mike Fonte, Fred Claus, Teri Bellanca, Jan Garrison, Laura Mason, Julie O’Connor, Billy Worthy, Christian Nole, Sherri Schaus

Larry opened in prayer

God Sightings:   Laura shared her father is recovering from surgery.  Christian reported that Rally day seemed a huge success.  Jan reported we received a booklet from the Archives from Illinois about TUMC’s history and heritage. Sherri shared her privilege to work on the ministry she feels she has been called to.

Approval Of Minutes:  Motion by Fred Claus to approve the minutes from August’s meeting as presented.  Seconded by Tom Burkman.  Unanimously approved.

Changes to agenda:               Ace Weekend date has been set

                                                Tom Burkman would like to share an item at end of meeting

Calendar of Events:

            UMW Lumch                                                  September 21 after worship

            Fall Festival                                                     October 25 with set up October 24

            One Starry Night                                            December 5 – 6

            ACE weekend event                                       February 7

            Advent Festival                                              December 7

            Christmas pageant                                           December 21

Choir Fundraisers                                            (bringing in choir from outside for concert)

                                                                        (no specific dates have been set)***

                                                                        (proceeds perhaps to go to organ fund) 

            Spiritual enrichment dates                              TBD

Project 5000                                                    November (Mission Committee is in charge of this event)

Pastor Comments:

*** Larry commented that if the money go to the organ fund, it is a hefty bill and should go through the trustees as perhaps a small capital improvement.  The conversation requires more clarity as to what the goal is.  The fundraising, itself, is not opposed, there is question as to where the money will be spent.  Tom feels the money will go to the repair/renovation of the organ. There was discussion as to whether it would be a free will offering taken or a charge for the ticket.

Fundraising still needs to be organized and recorded so events do not conflict with one another.  Missions had originally offered to monitor and record these events, but found it too time consuming.  Larry stated that he felt the Council should take this on, and not leave it with Missions.

Larry reported he feels we are off to a good start.  Staff meetings will be once a month, and everything he has looked at is going well.  Terri Bellanca said the turn-out for adult SS was great! “Simplify – de-cluttering your soul!”

Finance:  We are moving in a direction where we will meet all our obligations including our apportionments by the end of the year! Our giving is up and our expenses are in line and we have streamlined our budget which allows us to live within our means.

SPRC:       Tom reported the committee has nearly completed the hiring for all vacated positions.  A bookkeeper is still needed.  The finance committee hopes to appoint a volunteer or team of volunteers to fill the position until a permanent person is found. Requirements are no more than 10 hours a month. SPRC would not approve a paid position.  Annual evaluations have been given to veteran employees.  Updating of church profile, staff salaries for 2015 will be addressed at the next SPRC meeting.  Tom thanked us all for prayers for the SPRC committee.

Committee Reports:

            Abby reported all is well, and is having fun.  Seeing all the groups that are happening here at TUMC is encouraging! Rally day was fun and the kids had a great time.  Sunday school numbers are up since last year!  This is encouraging!  High school fellowship started on Thursday, and two new kids were in attendance.  A good start to the year!

            Julie reported numbers were good for Sunday School. 

            Trustees:  The tree that was doing some damage was taken down.  All work at the Cole parsonage is completed.  Open house there was received very well.  Abby is happy with the work that has been done.

Unfinished Business:

            Tom Burkman spoke on the needs of the organ.  “Our organ has become a jalopy.”  Dampers do not work at all.  Dennis is able to control by changing other things, which is not the proper way to play it.  It is functioning minimally currently.  The cost to fix/renovate can range from $0 to thousands of dollars.  Tom feels the minimal should be done as soon as possible – now.  Tom motioned the Council to ask Trustees to investigate the condition and needs of the organ and generate a plan for renovation or replacement and funding thereof. Terri seconded the motion.  Mike expressed concern that this might split the music department.  Tom stated there is not an entire music department – it is all divided based on where in the church they serve. Abby noted that the reason the staff is meeting once a month at night is to bring all factions together and feels they are heading in the right direction in bringing them all together. Larry said we do not have a general music department and needs to be worked on for this very purpose.  There are two existing bids that are outdated, but could be used for connections for a current proposal.  Vote taken and motion was passed with one opposed. 

150 Anniversary Plan

            Fred expressed interest in doing a documentary on a monthly basis culminating on the anniversary date.  Larry has been accumulating information over the past year on the history part of it.  Bobbie Cap may be part of this committee.  We need to get a committee together and think this through. There is a little lack of clarity of the history of TUMC.  It could be spread out over a year, you could combine a capital fund drive with it.  It should be a commissioned committee that would report back to Council with ideas.  Fred is interested in serving on that committee.

There was a vote to form a committee for the Anniversary Event.  All are welcome.  GI Historical Society may be of some help.  Celebrating is important.

Tom Burkman shared a concern about a course being offered at GIHS Adult Ed.  Tom expressed his feelings that this is religious and schools should not be supporting this course.  It is a course on Angels.  Fred shared that the courses are organized by the school and the teacher is paid by those that take the course.  Sheila stated that others have questioned this, and offered to teach a “Christian” course, and the district denied the request.  Larry will take this to the ministerium.

There was discussion about using different knaves for Contemporary service and traditional service.  Technology is an issued.  Terri commented that she sees growth in numbers.  It was decided that both knaves will be used to see if it is satisfactory for all involved.  Larry, Christian and Fred will work out the tech and music issues.

It was noted that we are so blessed to have so much going on at TUMC.  Larry has made a huge commitment doing all three services, and was thanked.

Next Meeting: Monday, October 10 @ 7 PM in Historic Trinity

Closing prayer by Larry.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Gail Conschafter

Finance Committee Report for October 20 Meeting

In September the General Fund had income of $23.7k and expenses of $29.6k. Year to date giving is $246.1k and expenses $255.5k.  Since we started the year with $7.6k in the GF, we have a negative $1.8k balance.  To date we have paid $21.4k of our annual $46.6k apportionments commitment. 

 

Our Giving forecast software estimates our year-end GF giving will be about $355k, which should permit us to fulfill them.

 

The Staff Parish Relations Committee has asked to increase Pastorial support by $2318 in 2015, which represents a 3% salary for the Pastor along with a modest increase in his healthcare support.  The Finance Committee did not get this request in time for our monthly meeting, but it has been our historic practice to support requests of this type and thus I recommend it to the Church Council.

 

Chris Hipp - Chair Finance Committee

SPRC Report for October 20, 2014 Meeting

    The SPRC is in the process of revising and updating the Church Profile for use by the Conference in the appointment of a successor to our Pastor Baird.  Copies of the updated draft will be available for congregation at the Information Table on Sunday, October 26.  Attached will be a form on which members can submit suggestions for the strengthening of the document.  This form should be submitted in the box on the door of the church office.  Members of the Church Council are urged to take seriously this opportunity to have meaningful input into the transition process.

     At its October 6 meeting, the SPRC recommended to the Finance Committee staff salary raises for 2015.

     The SPRC commends Sherri Schaus and her proposal for increased lay leadership in the Senior Adult Ministries program.

     The church is in the process of seeking persons to fill these positions:

•                      Bookkeeper.  Volunteer(s) that will serve all or part of the year.
•                    A set-up person to open and close the church on Sunday mornings and do snow removal                 from entrances.

     The SPRC takes note of, and gives thanks for, the fact that all three of our worship venues are well established and growing.

Minutes from May's Church Council Meeting

Church Council Meeting

Monday, May 19, 2014

Meeting opened with unison reading of the TUMC Mission Statement.

Attendees: Jan Garrison, Fred Claus, Larry Baird, Laura Mason, Paul Sipson, Bobbie Cap, Sheila Rader, Tom Burkman, Terry Bellanca, John Jones, Mike Fonte, Charlie Yund, Sue Kaiser, Gail Conschafter

Larry opened in prayer

God Sightings:   Laity banquet honoring Jan Garrison was a huge success and well deserved.  Thankful that Laura Mason is not seriously injured in a recent car accident.

Approval Of April's Minutes:  Minutes will be approved next meeting.

Calendar of Events:

            Piano Concert                                                May 30           

Departing Staff Recognition/church concert     June 8

Grad Recognnition                                          June 22

            Joyful Noise Concert                                      June 29

            VBS                                                              July 27 – 31

            Fall Festival                                                   October 25 with set up October 24

            One Starry Night                                           December 5 – 6

Finance: Year to date general fund giving is $112.7k vs. $107.8 in 2013. Spending is $108.5k vs. $116.7k last year. This leaves the GF with a $11.7k balance vs. $0.9k in 2013. All of this is encouraging, as is the forecast of $350k in General Fund giving.

$3.7k of the reduced spending results from the absence of the Office Manager for much of the year. The Office Assistant and Youth Ministry positions will be filled, which will increase spending by $1.5k/month.

Apportionments were paid for one month in 2014 vs. nothing YTD last year. Given the positive balance in the GF we will make monthly payments when prudent.



Chris Hipp Chair Finance Committee

Discussion on non payment of apportionments. The projections are that we should be able to catch up by the end of the year.

SPRC:       The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1) Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to effect the church’s mission.

2) Church financial constraints.

3) Staff termination, transfers, and resignation.

The status of current searches for staff replacement:

1    1)      Administrative Assistant to the Pastor.  Hired Alice Mock.  Began in salaried capacity May 5

2    2)      Youth Ministry Coordinator.  Hired Abbey Cole.  Transition in June, full compensation from July 1

3    3)      Senior Adult Ministries Coordinator.  Applications are being received until May 26.  July 1 start.

4    4)      Children’s Ministries Coordinator.  Applications are being received until May 26.  Transition in July, full compensation from August 1.

Annual evaluations will be submitted to staff members in June. 

Sunday, June 8.  Departing staff will be recognized in three services, a reception following the Traditional Service, and a tribute concert by the music ministries at 12:15.  Pastor Lange will preach at all three services.

Sunday, June 22.  A party for staff will be held 3:00-6:00 at the Lavallees.

Pastor’s Comments:  Larry has met with Christian Knowl and talked in detail about the Worship band for the 9:00 service.  Both Larry and Christian have ideas that are going to be implemented.  Abby Cole – new Youth coordinator – may also be interested.  Bobbie asked if Music Chair would be included in the planning.  8:00 service continues to grow on a regular basis.  The young kids at that service are confirmands.

Additional Committee Reports:  Question about Ann Hippe’s vacated position.  Is the committee looking to fill that position exactly.  Larry commented that it would depend on the person(s) filling that position – depending on their qualifications and interests. There were some recommendations and Tom reported he has spoken to some of the members. Tom asked if anyone had Yolanda Hasselbeck’s number in hopes she might be able to have any recommendations for any of our positions.  Tom will stop and talk to Yolanda. Deadline for Children’s ministry position is May 27.  If we do not have the right person, we will not hire.  Larry said we have enough competent people in our Ed dept that we could go a bit into the fall without replacing Liz and Mark. Another concept stressed in the hiring is the team concept – all ministries will work together so as children move from one age group to the next, the transition is seamless. Mark and Liz will be moving to Jamestown to a full time position with a house, so this is a new, God-given opportunity, and we are very happy for them.

Charlie commented that we are moving forward in a positive direction. Tom said that suggestions came in that the reason not to combine children and youth position was that the committee felt it would be better to keep them separate.  The times they all met overlapped, so there would have been a conflict for one person. We would like to involve our teens into all worship services. Fred reported he has a few teens willing to work the slides.

If there are accolades available, Larry would like to have them.  If there are not going to be any, Larry would like to know so we can plan accordingly.  It is possible that summer is an influx of new people. Last summer we had a number of new people as visitors from the campgrounds.  There is a color brochure that the ministerium puts out that has all the Island churches listed. The shirts that identify key members are key.  Coffee hour could use some clarification.  Donna Lavalee is working on putting together a meeting with anyone interested in helping out. If anyone has time, help would be appreciated. As we go forward, we need to find a way to integrate the new people into our “house.”  It is so important to make them feel welcome.  We need to coordinate our efforts so we don’t turn people away.

Bobbie reported we have a few anniversaries upcoming.  History and records - 50 years for the new building.  Fred has been in contact with Historic Trinity to put together a video.  We need to have a place to display the history of TUMC.  If this is something we want to do, we need some volunteers to work on this.  2015 is the year for this.  There needs to be a place in the perhaps we could put some display cases in there. Kay Long’s brother in law passed away and the service will be at a later date. Should there be a specific location, Charlie requested it still be a multipurpose room.  Bobbie would like to see all the information displayed, and available to be seen by all.

Jan reported the Trustees will carpet the family room. There are two bids that are close, and Trustees will decide on which one to go with.  They will be 36” carpet tiles that will not show stains.  Carpet tiles work better with stains – which can be lifted.  There is a 15 year guarantee with each company.  They can be replaced one at a time if need be. The carpet in the lounge is very dirty.  Dave has cleaned that carpet, but is showing its wear.  The carpeting will be laid in August.  We will do a walk through when Nate and Angie leave on the second parsonage.  Most needs are cosmetic and are minor.  Cole’s are available to move in in August.  SPRC will talk about the timing of them moving in and when their compensation begins. Charlie asked Jan to perhaps recommend to Trustees upgrading the lounge.

Next Meeting: Monday, June 16 – 7 PM in Historic Trinity.

Closing prayer by Larry.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Gail Conschafter

SPRC Report for June Council Meeting

Report of Staff-Parish Relations Committee to Church Council, June 16, 2014

     The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1) Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to affect the church’s mission.

2) Church financial constraints.

3) Staff termination, transfers, and resignation.

The status of current searches for staff replacement:

1)      Administrative Assistant to the Pastor.  Hired Alice Mock.  Began in salaried capacity May 5

2)      Youth Ministry Coordinator.  Hired Abbey Cole.  Transition and partial salary month of June, full compensation from July 1

3)      Senior Adult Ministries Coordinator.  Interviews June 16. Three candidates.

4)      Children’s Ministries Coordinator.  VonWalds will serve through July 31 (will administer VBS).  Applications are being sought.  A task force is being formed to process the search and deal with interim needs.

Annual evaluations will be submitted to staff members in June.

The SPRC is looking into standards and procedures to guard against personal injuries at church.

The Trustees are looking into repair and refurbishing needs of the second parsonage which will be occupied by Abbey Cole and her husband David. 

       

Sunday, June 8.  Departing staff were recognized at a reception and a tribute concert by the music ministries at.  Pastor Lange preached a farewell sermon at all three services.

Sunday, June 22.  An appreciation party for staff will be held 3:00-6:00 at the Lavallees.

Staff members, assisted by a large number of volunteers, are fulfilling their jobs well.  The members of the SPRC are competent and responsible in their tasks and exhibit a positive spirit for Christ and the church.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas W. Burkman, Chair, Staff-Parish Relations Committee

Minutes from April's Church Council Meeting

Church Council Meeting

Monday, April 28, 2014

Meeting opened with unison reading of the TUMC Mission Statement.

Attendees: Jan Garrison, Anne Hipp, Chris Hipp, Charlie Yund, Jessica Mazgaj( For John Harbison), John Mason, Mike Fonte, Terry Bellanca, Laura Mason, Sheila Rader, Paul Sipson, Pastor Larry Baird, Gail Conschafter

The meeting continued with a unison prayer.

God Sightings:   Jan Garrison was at Assembly in Louisville, Kentucky with wonderful Godly people.  Travel was safe.

Approval Of Minutes: Add John Jones to Attendees. Minutes were unanimously approved with the submission of Bob Kaiser’s policy. Discussion of Smoking in church buildings was discussed.  Motion to approve the submitted Use of Building policy by Terry seconded by Chris Hipp.  The title of the position of the office position is as submitted on April 2014. 

Calendar of Events:

                Laity Banquet                                    May 18

                Joyful Noise Concert                      June 29

                VBS                                                        July 27 – 31

                Fall Festival                                         October 25 with set up October 24

                One Starry Night                              December 5 – 6

                Discussion on Graduation Sunday.  June 8 is staff recognition for those who are changing positions in the church.  Nate will preach all three services on this Sunday.  He will not be here June 29. Joyful Noise will be here June 29 for the 9 and 10:30 services with a lunch to follow the last service. A date would be June 22. There are approximately 5-8 graduates from both High School and college.

                In terms of the summer, there are a few that like the outdoor service, but we cannot do it the same way we did last summer.  Many of the older members were unsteady with walking across the lawn to get to their seats. Larry will talk to the Praise band to see if they would be willing to play outside for the 9:00 service.

                Spiritual Enrichment is done until the next round.

Finance: Chris reported: “ Through March General Fund giving is $84k, vs. $83.5k in 2013.  Spending ytd is $82.3k, vs. $87.4k last year.  This results in a positive $9.2k balance, a $2.9k improvement vs. 2013.  The Finance Committee agreed to a monthly apportionments payment in April.

Our giving forecast model suggests that we may finish the year with giving sufficient to pay apportionments at or near our $46.6k commitment.

The Finance Committee supports the SPRC proposal to create a 20 hour per week for the Administrative Assistant position.”

                To date, we are about even with our budget items.

SPRC:  From Tom Burkman’s email:

               

    “ The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1)            Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to effect the church’s mission.

2)            Church financial constraints

The status of current searches for staff replacement:

Administrative Assistant to the Pastor.  Hired Alice Mock , pending satisfaction of background check. 

Youth Ministry Coordinator.  Applications will be received through April 30.  Two candidates have been interviewed.  The intention is to decide at the May 5 SPRC meeting.

Senior Adult Ministries Coordinator.  Applications will be received during May. 

      

Sunday, June 8.  Departing staff will be recognized in three services, a reception following the Traditional Service, and a tribute concert by the music ministries at 12:15.  Pastor Lange will preach at all three services.

Sunday, June 22.  A party for staff will be held late afternoon.”

                There are a few candidates applying for the Youth Ministry position. Depending on who we hire, the second parsonage may come into play. This would be a part time position.  Larry told the Praise Band that he would be meeting with them as to how to continue to move forward. Larry stated that he was pleased that SPRC is being careful and taking time to hire the right person, which will hopefully longevity.

Missions: Jessica reported that Mission is working on a Mission Booklet highlighting the current projects the committee is working on.  There will be contact information available, along with needs for each project. This will hopefully will be go into a June bulletin. The committee would like to re-present the application process.  There has been usefulness in this, but one struggle was that it involved general fundraising.  Missions feels this is not within the realm of the Mission Committee. Charlie share his appreciation to the Mission Committee in coral the efforts of the fundraising.  Larry reported that Jessica has been both tough and gracious at the same time, making the process so appreciated.  Jessica asked that perhaps the new Administrative Assistant handle the entire church calendar and the fundraising efforts of the entire church. The Mission Committee will continue to handle the Mission part of the fundraising, but the remainder of the fundraising events will be funneled through the office and the Administrative Assistant. Jan suggested that once a date request is received, contact Jan.  She is able to check the calendar and put something on the church calendar.  Charlie would like to see an annual calendar in the office and keep it current.  It does need to be communicated to the congregation that any person(s) wanting to do an event, must go through the main office to make sure there are no conflicts.  There was discussion about setting up an area, and Jessica reported the committee has been in communication with Trustees on that.  Charlie will work with both committees to see if it is a possibility.  Jan reported the Trustees would like to see the “blank wall” to be the “missions wall.” 

Pastor’s Comments:  Larry’s main objective now that Easter is done, is to get a good staff in place and make sure our missional objectives are met. A handout was distributed with the attendance numbers for all three services for 2014.  There are more youth coming to the 8:00 service. See report for numbers. Mike Fonte reported that we are about 18 people more than 2012. This is encouraging news.

Additional Committee Reports: Laura Mason reported she has finished up the “max on life” group.  Attendance was good and friendships were generated. There were 8-12 people that were consistent.  Laura would like to do another series in the Fall.  Larry reported the Parenting Group had a good turn-out.  Out of that group, some decided to do another series.  The momentum is moving in a positive direction. The Internet program makes it easy to lead the series.  Our new internet service has been upgraded and is working well.  It has a tremendous amount of versatility. 

Paul Sipson commented on the Main bulletin board.  Chris Sipson is no longer going to do that main bulletin board.  She has done a wonderful job on this, and Larry is confident that we will be able to find competent people to update it with current events. Coffee hour transition has gone well.  There are a number of people that has stepped up to the plate to cover all services.  There was discussion about having an actual fire drill during a service. 

Charlie reported that he feels things are going well with all the changes taking place.  He has heard comments that have been positive.  We want to make sure it continues to be a positive experience for everyone.  The office has heard nothing but positive comments from those that have called or stopped into the office.  With Nate and Angie leaving, there is a huge hole that needs to be filled.  We need to remain positive about this and keep the momentum going. Sheila has heard that there are people willing to volunteer in the office.  Perhaps a notice in the bulletin stating what areas need those volunteers. Perhaps Alice, Jan, and Larry could assess the need and let the congregation know what and when is needed. There was discussion on the greeters.  We have fallen off getting greeters for each week.  Larry suggested that the greeters be a group of people that would recognize a new face and welcome them.  Perhaps a group like that could be put into place for the 9:00 service.  We all need to be aware of those new people coming in, and go outside our comfort zone. Our hospitality is the one thing we need to kick up a bit.

New shirts have been purchased for “team Trinity.”  Whoever is behind the visitors center should have one on. Hopefully the ushers as a team, coffee servers, and key people should wear them.

Terry commented that when we hired Frank and Edward, the committee asked them to come to a youth event.  This gave the kids a feeling they were important, and their input is wanted and appreciated. Kingdom Bound is an upcoming event that the kids might get involved in.

There was a question as to whether new members are listed in all bulletins?  Larry stated we need to continuously think through the three services and how all are affected by students/new members/ ect.  We need to keep updated on our website with new members, baptisms, confirmations, graduates/ ect.  If we are going to grow, we need to be a whole-hearted team in this area. “How do you do church “well” today during today’s culture?”  We need to find pockets where new people will feel welcome and fit in. How do we create more small groups?  The more we have, the better we are – we are serving more and more people. Spiritual growth will build the church, not programming!

Next Meeting: Monday, May 19 – 7 PM in Historic Trinity.

Closing prayer by Larry.

Meeting adjourned at 8:55 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Gail Conschafter

Finance report for April 28 Council Meeting

Finance Committee Report to April 28^th Church Council

Through March General Fund giving is $84k, vs. $83.5k in 2013.  

Spending ytd is $82.3k, vs. $87.4k last year.  

This results in a positive $9.2k balance, a $2.9k improvement vs. 2013.  The Finance Committee agreed to a monthly apportionments payment in April.

Our giving forecast model suggests that we may finish the year with giving sufficient to pay apportionments at or near our $46.6k commitment.

The Finance Committee supports the SPRC proposal to create a 20 hour per week  Administrative Assistant position.

Respectfully submitted,

Chris Hipp – Chair

Minutes from March 2014 Council Meeting

March 17, 2014 Church Council Minutes

Call to order with a Unison reading of the proposed Trinity mission statement:

Empowered by God, Trinity Church will

Follow Jesus, Develop Disciples, and Transform the World.

Attendees: Charlie Yund, Pastor Larry, Mark VonWald, Jan Garrison, Fred Claus, Gail Conschafter, Terry Bellanca, Mike Fonte, Anne Hipp. Tom Burkman. Sheila Rader

Opening devotional about St. Patrick led by Charlie.

God Sightings: Fred shared a picture he saw online with a picture of a cloud, but if you looked at it, it looked like angel wings.  Mike shared a story of an elderly woman that received whipped cream on her waffles.  The testimony of both the Sauer and the Kelly families in times of illness. 

Approve minutes from January and February Council meeting.  Approved unanimously.

Changes to agenda

            Add: Laity banquet

                      Attendance report – Mike Fonte

Major calendar events:

            - ACE weekend 2014 to be scheduled

- CE sleepover March 21

- UMW Green salad lunch March 30

- Good Friday Fish Fry April 18

- Spiritual Enrichment Dates; April 12

- Easter/Confirmation 4-20-14

-Joyful Noise Concert – June 29, 2014

            Two services – no accommodations necessary, but possibly a meal will be supplied

            -  VBS July 27-31 evenings

            - One Starry night December 5 & 6

Committee Reports:

            SPRC: Tom reported that SPRC is considering having a reception for outgoing personnel on June 8.  This is a day for a choir concert.  This might increase attendance for both. The committee in charge of luncheon is yet to be determined. Discussion on details of reception followed. One suggestion would be to have a recognition portion included in the 9:00 service to accommodate those that would most likely like to say something.  SPRC will check into the timing of his schedule.

Larry will ask Nate if he would be willing to be recognized during the 9:00 service on June 8^th, and then come back for a reception followed by the choir concert.  The times for all this will be modified by next month. There would be an “open mic” type of setting at the end of the service, giving people the opportunity to speak to/about Nate. A suggestion was to perhaps record it and give it to Nate for keepsake.

A significant transition is taking place.  From the blog:

     The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1)         Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to affect the church’s mission.

2)         Church financial constraints

      The search for a part-time Administrative Assistant is underway.  Two strong candidates were interviewed last week.  Care is being taken to make sure that the congregation is aware of the vacancy.  We hope to make the final determination by early April.  Meanwhile, the tasks of the church office are being carried out efficiently through the faithful volunteer service of Alice Mock and Jan Garrison.

    Following the Administrative Assistant appointment, we intend to address the upcoming vacancies in youth leadership and senior adult ministries.

     The skilled and dedicated members of the SPRC are preparing for these changes by updating job descriptions and exploring the options of volunteer appointments and stipend appointments.

There are three applicants of which two have been interviewed for the Administrative Assistant position.  Applications are still being accepted.  SPRC is hoping to close out applications by the end of March.  The position is a half time position. 

Secondly is the Youth Ministries: The job description for both this and the Sr. Ministries have been rewritten.  Larry has asked for a list of “Certified Lay Ministry,” to look at and possibly use the list as a list of possible “applicants.”  Nate is going to attend the next SPRC meeting to consult about the vacant position after he leaves.  The committee has already consulted with Anne about Sr. Ministries.  Charlie commented that there is still a good amount of time, and we are moving in a positive direction.  Larry commented that we already have an application for the Youth Ministry position.  SPRC is not responsible for the volunteer assignments for the church.  This will play out for the Youth Committee when it becomes necessary.  Larry is going to meet with those in the Praise Team to see where they see the direction of that service going.

Pastor comments

           

SPRC update:

Finance Report:

2014 Goals:

            - Continue to support Children, Youth, Families and Senior Members growth in Christ

            - Grow our church in Faith and Commitment to Christ

            - Develop a solid financial and stewardship plan.

Committee Reports:

Unfinished business

Next Meetings:

-          Church council on Monday, April 28, 2014 7:00 pm

Closing prayer and adjournment

SPRC Report for April 28 Council Meeting

     The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1)         Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to effect the church’s mission.

2)         Church financial constraints

The status of current searches for staff replacement:

       1)      Administrative Assistant to the Pastor.  Hired Alice Mock , pending satisfaction of background check. 

       2)      Youth Ministry Coordinator.  Applications will be received through April 30.  Two candidates have    been interviewed.  The intention is to decide at the May 5 SPRC meeting.

       3)      Senior Adult Ministries Coordinator.  Applications will be received during May. 

       

Sunday, June 8.  Departing staff will be recognized in three services, a reception following the Traditional Service, and a tribute concert by the music ministries at 12:15.  Pastor Lange will preach at all three services.

Sunday, June 22.  A party for staff will be held late afternoon.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas W. Burkman, Chair, Staff-Parish Relations Committee

Church Council Minutes from February 2014

February 24, 2014 Church Council Minutes 

Attendees: Mark Von Wald, Tom Burkman, Terri Bellanca, Jan Garrison, Sheila Rader, John Jones, Laura Mason , Pastor Larry Baird, Charlie Yund

The meeting was called to order with a unison reading of the Trinity mission statement and An opening prayer by Pastor Baird.

Terri Bellanca shared a God Sighting of working with her daughter at a Habit for Humanity project in San Diego.  The seeds had been planted years prior at a youth work camp.

Major calendar events:           

            - ACE weekend 2014  to be scheduled

- CE sleepover March 21

- UMW Green salad lunch March 30

- Good Friday Fish Fry 4-18

- Spiritual Enrichment Dates; 4/12

- Easter/Confirmation 4-20-14

                -  VBS July 27-31 evenings

                - One Stary night December 5 & 6

SPRC update included :

       1.) Pastor comments Associate Pastor Nate Lange will be assigned by the Conference to another pastoral appointment effective July 1.  The SPRC is now at work to envision youth ministry professional and volunteer leadership for the future.  The present worship schedule will not change.  Pastor Baird will preach all three services, but more lay leadership will be needed in the liturgical functions of all services.

2.)Senior Ministries Coordinator Anne Hipp will retire by choice, effective July 1.  Representatives of SPRC have already conferenced with Anne to envision continuing professional and volunteer leadership for the Senior Adult Ministry.  Continuation of the visitation program is a priority.

3.)    The position of Office Manager has been ended effective February 7 and the holder of that office was terminated.  A search is underway for a half-time Administrative Assistant who will work with the senior pastor in carrying out the duties of the church office.  Volunteers are filling in at the present time, and their service is exemplary.  A committee has been established to evaluate candidates for the permanent position.

     4.) The duties of the sexton in the area of setups have been reduced.  Sunday coffee will be setup on a timer and the congregation will serve as required.

    

     The church membership was informed by letter of the above staff changes.

2014 Goals were reviewed and request for additions was made.

            - Continue to support Children, Youth, Families and Senior Members growth in Christ

            - Grow our church in Faith and Commitment to Christ

            - Develop a solid financial and stewardship plan.

The Trustees committee reported that new chairs and tables have been ordered for Hidtoric Trinity.  These will allow for the chapel to be used for weddings and the east room set up for meetings.

Next meeting is scheduled for March 17at 7:00 pm

-           

Larry Baird Closed with a prayer and the meeting was adjourned at 8:40.

Respectfully submitted,

Charlie Yund

Trustees Report for March 17, 2014 Meeting

Church Council Members,

 

As you may know, a major revision to Trinity’s official Building Use Policy was developed by the Trustees and formally adopted by the Church Council in 2007.  Now the Trustees have formally developed an update to the Policy and Charlie Yund has agreed to present that 2014 update to the Church Council for formal adoption, hopefully at the upcoming March 17 meeting.

 

Attached is a copy of the 2007 Policy marked up with strikethroughs and red-letter additions to highlight the CHANGES, which are all relatively minor.  A second attachment briefly explains the reason for each change.    A few minutes spent reviewing these attachments sometime BEFORE the meeting should give you a very clear picture of what you will be voting on.  A clean copy of the updated Policy, already approved by the Trustees, is also attached for official adoption by the Council.

  

For your information, Bobbie Cap and Bob Kaiser, the two remaining members of the official Use of Building Committee (Janet Garrison has since been added) generated the updates as experience had shown to be desirable to clarify wording and correct omissions, without changing the original intent of the Policy. The Pastor and all other members of Trinity’s Staff reviewed the first two attachments, with no comments, before the Trustees made the changes official.

 

I will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and the Use of Building Committee will carefully consider any suggestions for improvement of the Policy--not limited to the update you are being asked to adopt at this time--that you may offer.

 

Bob Kaiser

(THE REVISIONS REFERENCED WILL BE AVAILABLE TO VIEW AT THE MEETING.  THE FORMATTING WAS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE BLOG!)

SPRC Report for March's Council Meeting

Report of Staff-Parish Relations Committee to Church Council, March 17, 2014

     The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1)         Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to effect the church’s mission.

2)         Church financial constraints

      The search for a part-time Administrative Assistant is underway.  Two strong candidates were interviewed last week.  Care is being taken to make sure that the congregation is aware of the vacancy.  We hope to make the final determination by early April.  Meanwhile, the tasks of the church office are being carried out efficiently through the faithful volunteer service of Alice Mock and Jan Garrison.

    Following the Administrative Assistant appointment, we intend to address the upcoming vacancies in youth leadership and senior adult ministries.

     The skilled and dedicated members of the SPRC are preparing for these changes by updating job descriptions and exploring the options of volunteer appointments and stipended appointments.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas W. Burkman, Chair

Finance Committee Report for March Council Meeting

The Finance Committee met for its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on March 11^th at 6:30 pm.  Financial results through February were reviewed.  General Fund giving was $54.5k and expenses $53.3k, leaving a positive balance of $8.7k.  AS has been recent practice, no payments to apportionments were made.  They are expected to resume in April, should giving support this.

Discussion on how the Finance operation is functioning with the departure of the Secretary of Finance, generated general agreement that Jim Winter and Diane Blum had successfully  filled the void left by Linda McGuire’s  absence.  Many thanks to both and to Jan Garrison for their dedication in achieving this result.  Jim manages incoming revenue while Diane manages expenses.

The Finance Committee endorses the severance payment planned for Linda  McGuire.

Issues remain with management of the M&T Money Market account and the Methodist Frontier Fund, where the Endowment Fund is invested.  It is believed that a Corporate Resolution will be needed from the Trustees to establish appropriate management control for these two funds.  The M&T account holds our operating funds and thus should be available for routine withdrawals when needed, while the Endowment Fund requires oversight as an investment vehicle.

 

Chris Hipp - Chair

Sr Adult Ministry

Advance Care Directives Seminar Luncheon
3/16/14
We had about 50 to attend.
Thank you Fred Claus for the great tech support!
Thank you Wendy McCaffery for your volunteered child care.
Everyone enjoyed a wonderful lunch.
We will have a follow-up with Dr. Sylvia Kaplein March 30th after the 10:30 worship service.
Thank you,
Anne Hipp

Thank you Church Council

Anticipated projects:
Mark Your calendar as Trinity church kicks off one of its annual evangelistic efforts with its VBS. Last year we reached over one hundred children and their families which is a Trinity church new high in attendance. The dates for this years VBS is on Sunday July 27th and ends on Thursday July 31st.
Important additional calendar items:
On March 21st starting at 6pm we will hold our annual CE Sleepover. This is an highly anticipated event on our calendar by our CE families. We will have games, crafts, movies and other fun. This is always good event to continue to build relationships with our students and their families.
Notes of praise.
During march we had three of our regular families who had not been in attendance this past year suddenly come back to Trinity. This is good news because we have been contacting these families and praying for their return.
Thank you council for your continue support in what God is doing in the life's of these student whom you placed under our care. It is an honor to serve the children of this church and their families.
Mark and Liz Von Wald

SPRC Report for February 24 Council Meeting

Report of Staff-Parish Relations Committee to Church Council, Feb. 24, 2014

     The SPRC is grappling with staffing changes brought about by

1)      Need to strengthen our professional and volunteer leadership to effect the church’s mission.

2)      Church financial constraints

By decision of the SPRC and the Church Council, the following staff changes are in process:

1)      Associate Pastor Nate Lange will be assigned by the Conference to another pastoral appointment effective July 1.  The SPRC is now at work to envision youth ministry professional and volunteer leadership for the future.  The present worship schedule will not change.  Pastor Baird will preach all three services, but more lay leadership will be needed in the liturgical functions of all services.

2)      Senior Ministries Coordinator Anne Hipp will retire by choice, effective July 1.  Representatives of SPRC have already conferenced with Anne to envision continuing professional and volunteer leadership for the Senior Adult Ministry.  Continuation of the visitation program is a priority.

3)      The position of Office Manager has been ended effective February 7 and the holder of that office was terminated.  A search is underway for a half-time Administrative Assistant who will work with the senior pastor in carrying out the duties of the church office.  Volunteers are filling in at the present time, and their service is exemplary.  A committee has been established to evaluate candidates for the permanent position.

     The church membership was informed by letter of the above staff changes.

     The duties of the sexton in the area of setups have been reduced.

     The SPRC gratefully acknowledges the dedicated and effective service of Dr. Donna Lavallee as Interim Chair of the SPRC from September through January.

Respectfully submitted,

Thomas W. Burkman, SPRC chair