ANNUAL BUDGET AND CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2011
12:20 PM
I. OPENING PRAYER
A. Joe Jeffreys opened the meeting in prayer.
II. MEMBERS PRESENT
A. Members present: 66
B. 38 required for quorum
III. ACCEPTANCE OF 2011 AGENDA
A. Discussion from the floor to accept 2011 Agenda
1. Motion presented
2. No discussion. Motion Second and carried unanimously.
IV. ACCEPTANCE OF 2010 MEETING MINUTES
A. Discussion from the floor to accept the 2010 Congregational Minutes
1. Motion presented
2. No discussion. Motion second and carried unanimously.
V. PRESIDENT’S REVIEW
2011 was a year the congregation of St. George focused on serving others in need.
A. Accomplishments
• Spirit of Hope in Detroit- St. George served 3500 meals, donated over 1500 pounds of clothes in pants, shirts coats, etc. and over 150 units of soap, shampoo and personal hygiene items in 2011.
• Fish and Loaves has served 8-9 times in 2011, feeding 50-85 people mostly senior citizens and some families with 16-20 hours of food preparation/purchase and 8-10 volunteers to serve the meals.
• Other accomplishments included renewed commitment to Spirit of Hope Men’s Ministry, landscaping to improve grounds around St. George, a new sign was erected, 22 attended the youth gathering, increased member involvement in the ministry fair, children’s music ministry.
• In April 2011 St George Food Pantry was started with two distributions a month, serving 1000 hungry people with food distribution of over 20,000 lbs of food received and distributed. Three grant requests for over $10,000 have been received and room renovation has been completed for a permanent pantry.
• St. George established a volunteer program one Sunday a month to assist with food distribution at Gleaner Food Bank.
• Continued activity with the Church of Good Shepherd Amman Jordan, Gleaners, St. George Special Ministries, Lutheran Social Services ELCA and International opportunities with youth.
• St. George participated in 7 first communions, 5 Baptisms, 3 Confirmations, 9 weddings, 18 troop support boxes to Iraq, 66 Christmas shoeboxes.
• Youth participated in over 120 pie and roll making, 100 super bowl subs and 58 Ministry groups.
• Youth and Family participated in Bible Learning Adventure Stations (BLAST), Confirmation programs, Murder Mystery fellowship, Fall family camp, French dinner fellowship in the fall, Tri-State bike week and Operation Christmas child.
• Other events include the Merrill Herbst 100th birthday celebration, new St. George directories, three members elected into leadership roles in the Synod Assembly (Al Asfour, Harrison Jones, and Katie Higgs). Katie Higgs has completed her advanced leadership training school with Amy Cooly-Higgs serving as Co-Dean.
• Facilities has refinished basement floor tiles, stripped church parking loss, installed drop ceiling tiles in the basement, cleaned all windows,
All door were taken down stripped and refinished, participated in cemetery clean up and installed a new roof over the sewing room.
• Special thank you to the group of woman who keep our gardening and church looking great with all their time and effort.
B. Challenges
1. Financial
VI. VOTE ON COUNCIL POSITIONS
A. President, Mark Lingo 1st Term, 1 year served; Vice President, Scott Frasso 1st Term,1st year served; Youth/Family, Al Asfour 1st Term, 1st year served; Facilities, Chuck Bullock 2nd Term, 1st year served; Financial Secretary, Debi Evans 1st Term; Worship/Music Amy Cooley-Higgs 1st Term; Evangelism, Terry Simpson 2nd Term, Recording Secretary, Lori Lingo 2nd term.
B. Move to accept slate as presented.
1. Motion presented
2. No discussion. Motion second and carried unanimously
VII. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. 2011 Projected Giving Budget (October-September) was $260,600. Actual Giving was $260,203, $396.00 behind YTD Budget.
B. 2011 Projected Roof Fund Budget (October-September) was $10,790. Actual Roof Fund Giving was $14,151.00, $3361.00 ahead of projected YTD budget.
C. 2011 Total Expense Budget (October-September) was $283,790. Actual Expenses were $285733, $1943.00.00 ahead of YTD Budget.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
A. Presentation of Proposed 2012 budget
1. 2011 budget: $283,790
2. 2012 proposed budget: $284,200
a. Request from the floor to place 2012 budget on the St. George website
b. Discussion from the floor to explain St. George structural insurance and covered amounts.
c. Request to explain wages/benefits per employee.
d. Question from the floor to explain specific Funds in addition to where the Cemetery funds come from.
e. Discussion from the floor regarding availability of the balance sheet.
f. Discussion pursued regarding 2012 Tithing, specifically Spirit of Hope. Joe Jeffreys made a motion to revert back to 2011 Tithing for Spirit of Hope, putting $6000.00 back into Tithing Budget. Motion Second by Bob Steeh.
3. ACTION
a. Stan will place 2012 budget on the St. George Website
b. Stan will contact the St. George insurance agent and obtain requested information for detailed structural coverage.
c. Mark will contact the ELCA Synod to obtain standard practice information with regards to providing per employee wage/benefit information.
d. Stan explained Council has researched how specific funds were set up and has provided such information to the Congregation. Stan also explained where Cemetery funds come from and assured members, Council is aware of concerns with regards to the keeping of the Cemetery grounds. Cemetery maintenance will continue to be funded through the Cemetery fund and necessary changes have been made for 2012 by Council.
e. Financial Reports are available in the library each month for members wishing to see them.
f. Mark Lingo and Terry Simpson provided details with regards to communication of Spirit of Hope and Councils decision to amend Tithing for 2012. St. George has a future funding source of $1200, which will continue to go to Spirit of Hope for feeding those in need. Members voted on the Call to question presented by Joe Jeffreys during discussion. Majority vote was to leave tithing budget as prepared and carried unanimously.
B. Call to close discussion
1. Motion presented.
2. No discussion. Motion second and carried unanimously
IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS
A. Audit Committee in need of three people, per bylaws, for annual audit of books.
X. CLOSURE OF 2011 BUDGET AND CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
A. Mark Lingo closed the meeting with prayer.
Meeting adjourned: 1:58 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted by Lori Lingo
October 13, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Debi Evans; Scott Frasso; Chuck Bullock; Terry Simpson; Pastor Steve Higley; Lori Lingo; Al Asfour; Stan Dzierwa
Absent: None
Call to Order: 7:04 p.m.
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda
1
Motion made to accept agenda as presented.
IV. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Reported giving through October 9th, 2011 was $6218.00 behind revenue budget. Total Roof Fund giving through August 21st, 2011 was $2723.00 ahead of projected giving.
Action: None Reported
2.) Treasurer Report:
*Giving through September, 2011 was $7496.00 under budget. Expenses were $3401.00 under budget with year to date expenses exceeding revenue by $4094.00.
Action: None
3) Facilities:
Facilities Deacon was added to the Cemetery Committee. Cemetery Committee will elect a Chairperson who will submit a monthly report from the committee, and turn it into the Facilities Deacon each month to be included in the Facilities Report to Council. In addition, the Cemetery Committee will oversee the lawn maintenance at the cemetery starting in 2012. There will be a budget for this cost, and all decisions will need final Council approval.
Action: None
4.) Worship/Music:
*Council moved to have Amy Cooley-Higgs serve the Worship/Music position on interim basis.
Action: None
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*St. George food pantry continues to do well, serving many in need throughout the community.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*The Tuscany dinner event was a great success! Thank you to Al Asfour and all who helped make this a successful evening of fellowship for St. George!
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Amy Patrick will be on planned vacation from 11/18/2011 to 12/5/2011.
*Pastor Steve will be officiating a Wedding March 10 and 11, 2012.
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Sign up and composing to begin for small groups the end of October, first of November. *November 20th is the anticipated kick off Sunday for the Purpose of Christmas with worship emphasis continuing through December 18th. The first Sunday of the Purpose of Christmas is scheduled for November 27th, and continuing for the next three Sundays with Celebration Sunday scheduled December 18th.
*Worship leaders have been scheduled for Pastor during recuperation following his surgery scheduled for early November.
Action: None
9.) President’s Report:
*The annual Congregational Meeting for St. George is scheduled for Sunday, November 20th following the 11:00 service. Extended childcare will be available for those with children who would like to attend.
* Council discussed St. George tithing/funding commitments and other agenda items scheduled for the Congregational Meeting.
Action: Stan will make available 2011/2012 financial reports to the congregation prior to the scheduled Congregational Meeting.
V. Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 9:55 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting is November 10th, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
August 25th, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Debi Evans; Scott Frasso; Chuck Bullock; Terry Simpson; Pastor Steve Higley; Lori Lingo; Al Asfour; Stan Dzierwa
Absent:
Call to Order: 7:04 p.m.
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda
1.) The Cemetery Committee, John Cottington, Don Thomas, Dan Herbst, and Dwight Matteson, were granted the floor for proposal of Cemetery policy change, Cemetery Fund concerns and Cemetery maintenance. Don proposed:
a.) change to the adopted policy from June 19, 1993 to elect five Cemetery Committee members as opposed to the current four;
b.) proposal of four members of the congregation-at-large appointed by the Church Council as opposed to three members. Dwight presented concern regarding the balance of the Cemetery Fund. Mark explained what is in each fund and how each fund can be used and will investigate Dwight’s concerns regarding the Cemetery Fund. John presented concern regarding the maintenance of the Cemetery. Mark suggested he, the Cemetery Committee and the Facilities director meet to discuss Cemetery maintenance.
Motion made to accept agenda as presented.
IV. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Reported giving through August 21st, 2011 was $5846.00 behind revenue budget. Total Roof Fund giving through August 21st, 2011 was $2186.00 ahead of projected giving.
Action: None Reported
2.) Treasurer Report:
*Giving through July, 2011 was $425.00 under budget. Expenses were $1500.00 over budget with year to date expenses exceeding revenue by $1960.00
Action: None
3) Facilities:
*The roof over the overflow in sewing room is being addressed.
*Inspection of the boiler system will be scheduled. *The back door to parsonage house needs to be repaired.
*Al requested weed killer for the lawn.
*Bids for snow plowing will go out in upcoming months.
Action: None
4.) Worship/Music:
*Council continues to search for a Worship/Music Director to replace Karen Smith. Mark will contact possible interested candidates.
Action:
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*Pastor Steve and Terry are discussing an energetic bible study program to start in January, 2012 to anyone interested in participating. More details will follow in upcoming months.
*St. George food pantry is going strong with the next pantry date scheduled Saturday, August, 27th. The Pantry is waiting to hear on a grant from the Parker Foundation submitted 2 months ago. A separate grant will be submitted to the ELCA August, 26th. Food pantry shelving has been installed and looks fantastic. Thank you to Chuck Bullock for installing the shelves. The next Soup kitchen at Spirit of Hope is scheduled for Saturday, September 24th. St. George continues to support Love Inc.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*St. George youth and youth from many Lutheran Churches as far as Midland, attended a special event put on by the St. George youth.
*Youth from both St. George and partner churches in Palestine participated in the Spirit of Hope soup kitchen July, 23rd.
*St. Youth and visiting Palestine youth attended a picnic July 25th at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Gross Pte.
*Youth attended an outing to Cedar Point and Bass Lake Music in early August.
*St. Several St.George members opened their homes for St. George youth and Palestinian visitors for several delicious dinners!
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Greg Lanzi has agreed to work with Sally on Special Music for both services. Dates for Special Music will be established.
*Scott continues to investigate and address Music/Choir needs.
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Informational items include: current congregant needs include five shut-ins, baptisms are scheduled for August, 27, and upcoming rehearsal/weddings: Rev. Thomas will be presiding at three non-member weddings and Pastor Higley will have a non-member rehearsal on October 7 and wedding October 8.
*Pastor is currently putting together the congregational small group program, “The Purpose of Christmas”. Sign up will occur early through mid October with projected program start date of November 20th.
*Pastor will be on vacation from Thursday, September 1-Friday September 30.
Action: None
9.) President’s Report:
*Open council Worship/Music position discussed.
*St. George council will continue to support Seminary for Joe Jeffrey in the amount of $5000 for the 2011 year.
*Council shared several ideas for fellowship activities at St. George. Suggestions included church functions such bible studies, themed dinners, progressive dinners, chili cook-off, tigers games, and fall picnic. Other ideas are welcome. Tentative dates are being considered for a themed Tuscany family dinner event and a progressive dinner. A December Potluck on Sunday the 18th is being organized to celebrate the conclusion of “The Purpose of Christmas” program. All and everyone are welcome.
Action:
V. Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 9:41 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting is September 22nd, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
July 27, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Debi Evans; Scott Frasso; Chuck Bullock; Stan Dzierwa; Terry Simpson; Pastor Steve Higley; Lori Lingo; Al Asfour; Karen Smith
Absent:
Call to Order: 7:48 p.m.
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda
Motion made to accept agenda as presented.
IV. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Reported giving through July 24th, 2011 was $8724.820 behind revenue budget. Total Roof Fund giving through July 24th, 2011 was $2531.00 ahead of projected giving.
*Semi-annual statements were available after each service Sunday, July 24th and 31st. Remaining envelopes will mailed to individual members.
Action: None Reported
2.) Treasurer Report:
*Giving through June 30th was $1500 below budget, while expenses were $3000 over budget with year to date expenses $4500 over budget.
Action: None
3) Facilities:
*The roof over the overflow in sewing room has been bid out.
*The hydraulic system for the elevator needs to be replaced. Motion made by Al to repair the roof, second by Karen. Don Thomas stripped the parking lot. Thank you Don for your faithful and continued service to St. George.
Action: None
4.) Worship/Music:
*Two Multi-media operators are still needed for the 9:00 service.
*Programmers are also needed. A closer is required for the 4th Sunday of the month. Interested volunteers should contact Chuck Bullock or Mark Lingo.
*Internet connection was not working in the multi-media area.
Action: Internet connection in the multi-media area will be addressed.
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*The next Soup kitchen at Spirit of Hope is scheduled for Saturday, September, and November.
* St. George continues to volunteer at Gleaners Food Bank.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*Nine youth campers visited and enjoyed Spirit of Hope during St. George youth camp week.
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Pastor will be on vacation in the month of September. Interterm, Pastor Thomas will perform service September 4th, 11th, and 18th. Terry Simpson will perform service on the 11th and Amy Cooley-Higgs on September 18th.
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Current congregant needs include five shut-ins.
*Attendance during the summer has been down, however higher in attendance from last summer.
*Sunday School and Adult Bible Study options were discussed.
Action: None
9.) President’s Report:
*Thank you to St. George member and council member Karen Smith for her dedication to St. George. She and her family will be moving to the New Jersey area mid-August. Best wishes to a “new adventure” to the Smith family, they will be sadly missed.
Action: Mark will compile a list of ideas from council
V. Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 10:02 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting is August 18th, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
June 13, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Debi Evans; Pastor Steve Higley; Scott Frasso; Karen Smith; Lori Lingo; Chuck Bullock; Al Asfour; Stan Dzierwa
Absent: Terry Simpson
Call to Order: 7:03 PM
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda:
Additions requested by Al and Mark.
III. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Reported giving through June 11, 2011 was behind $706.73. Total Roof Fund giving was $2283.50 ahead of budget. Council discussed available tracking tools of the new 360 software. Currently St. George council is considering emailing quarterly statements when available through the software. Until available, semi-annual statements will be sent with the first going out mid-July.
Action: *Deb and Nancy will contact 360 to discuss available tools within the software.
2.) Treasurer Report:
*Total giving through May 31, 2011 was $2200.00 ahead of budget. Expenses were $3077.00 over budget, with expenses exceeding income by $876.00 due to heavy plowing and heating utilities.
Action: None
3.) Facilities: *The elevator is not working. Chuck will call for repair of the elevator. Chuck is coordinating re-organization of room/storage in the church basement for better use of space and will meet with Lisa, Karen, Al and Terri.
Action: None
4.) Worship/Music:
*Thank you to a volunteer for stepping forward to operate the multi-media system the past few weeks. Worship services are still badly in need of operators, ushers, greeters and communion assistants. Lisa delivered the message on graduation Sunday and challenged everyone to “say yes”. This message will continue to be spread. A sign-up sheet will be passed around in the coming weeks.
*The directory proof book has been reviewed; corrections made, and are back at Lifetouch for final printing. Directories are expected to arrive near the end of June.
*The summer worship planning team will meet June 23rd for the planning of 11 am service for the months of July and August. Larry Shock, Shannon & Jerry, and The Worship, Music and Fellowship team is exploring a policy for whom, how and when a function at the church will be canceled if there is a funeral.
*The Special Ministries picnic was a big success. Thank you to all who helped to make the picnic a success, especially Jan & Phillips.
Action: None
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*Terri will be leaving for a mission trip to Uganda, July 1st with A Light To The Nations (aLn). ALn’s vision statement is, “we are business minded Christians who will win the lost, care for the poor and inspire the body of Christ.” Gospel festivals help win the lost and Mercy Ministry programs help care for the poor. There are 2 immediate opportunities for St. George to assist in the Mercy Ministry:
• Donate colored pens/pencils/markers and coloring books in the boxes in the church office or at the altar. I will deliver those items to pre-schools, churches and orphanages while in Uganda.
• Donate financially with 100% of the money going towards mosquito nets and bedding to help families better fight the malaria epidemic. Since DDT was banned in the 70’s, over 100 million African’s have died from malaria and mosquito nets are the simplest, cheapest ways to help families fight this epidemic!
*St. George continues their commitment with Spirit of Hope in 2011. The next outreach event is Saturday, July 23rd. The planned menu will be cheeseburgers and Chuck has agreed to bring the large grill downtown for a real “cookout.” We have done this the past two years and it works out extremely well.
*St. George continues to volunteer certain Saturdays throughout the month at Gleaners with St. George members. The program is going well under Sheri’s leadership and is becoming a consistent program in outreach events.
*The food pantry at St. George is exceeding expectations after 8 outreach events and the numbers are growing. Yvonne and Sheri continue to lead this initiative with other volunteer help from St. George members. Based on the growth of this ministry, a permanent pantry will be built in the Sunday school room at no cost to St. George. Lisa has agreed to give up the entire Sunday school room (meaning no additional walls or spaces will be to be created) and will work with Chuck to find a suitable space to accommodate the loss of the room. A friend of Yvonne’s has donated commercial grade shelving. The Pantry will be open through June but is closed in July and August. The intent is to complete the installation and any modifications to the room in the summer and open September with a newly renovated permanent pantry.
*St. George is receiving requests from Love Inc for different services on occasion. We will continue to offer service opportunities to our congregation and support Love Inc as best we can.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*Graduation services went very well. Congratulations to all our graduates!
*On July 20th 8 young people will visit from our sister church in Jerusalem. Lisa Jeffries, Jenna Dzierwa, and Alicia Sorenson have been working diligently in preparation for their visit. A variety of Evangelism ideas were discussed for fellowship and small group opportunities for St. George members.
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Sally Headley, Choir Director for St. George, will be stepping down from her position. She will continue to act as lead organist for both Sunday Services and special events. Council will actively search for a Choir Director replacement.
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Upcoming scheduling commitments include 5 shut-ins, 2 Baptism’s scheduled for June 12th and June 25th. Wedding rehearsal/wedding occurred June 17/18th. Pastor Steve shared and council discussed the differences between congregations which are “growing” and those that getting “weaker”.
*Attendance comparisons from 2009/2010/2011 reveal attendance has remained stable in 2011.
Action: None
9.) President’s Report:
*Letters to congregation will go out with statements in mid-July.
Action: None
10.) Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 9:42 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting is Thursday, July 21st, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
May 12, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Debi Evans; Pastor Steve Higley; Scott Frasso; Karen Smith;
Lori Lingo; Chuck Bullock; Terry Simpson
Absent: Stan Dzierwa; Al Asfour
Call to Order: 7:00 PM
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda
Motion made to accept agenda as presented.
IV. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Debi Evans was welcomed to Church Council as the new Financial Secretary. To date reported giving through May 8, 2011 was ahead $2419.19. Total Roof Fund giving was $2143.50 ahead of budget, with total Roof Fund $6086.00 to date.
Action: None
2.) Treasurer Report:
*None
Action: None
3.) Facilities:
*Council approved planting of a flowering tree as requested by Special Ministries. Larry Shock has to agreed to volunteer his services to plant the tree.
*The elevator is in need of service at the cost of $639.00. Service will need to be completed prior to inspection.
*The roof above the sewing room area is leaking and is need of repair.
Action: Chuck will obtain estimates for roof repair above the sewing room.
4.) Worship/Music:
*Due to the wonderful picture directory turnout, Lifetouch has offered several “free” items to St. George for our participation. St. George chose a very nice, 1000 piece colored brochure, which will be available for guests to take when attending a St. George service.
*Council thanked Karen for all her time and dedication to St. George directory.
*Due to lack of media volunteers, the Sunday, May 15th 9:00 service did not utilize the multi-media system.
*As a reminder, all events except worship and weddings will be cancelled delayed or moved due to the needs of a funeral.
*Council is considering and exploring music options.
*A summer worship team for the 11am service is being formed to plan for July and August.
*A proposal for a third worship service is being is drafted.
*Special events include Special Ministries Sunday, May 22nd (Special Ministries will provide ushers, greeters, music for the 11am service and Graduations Recognition, June 5th (Women of St. George will provide refreshments).
Action: None
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*Terri, Chuck, and Yvonne will continue with discussions regarding expansion of a room for St. George Food Pantry.
*Spirit of Hope in 2011 continues with the first event scheduled for Saturday, May 28th (forth Saturday) and will continue to serve the 4th Saturday, July, September and November.
*Mark suggested St. George Food Pantry “leaders” track information for statistics that can be available for the November Congregational meeting.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*None Reported
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Scott presented a written procedure for Openers/Closers
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Pastor Steve will not be available immediately following the 11:00 service, Sunday, May15th as he and Mary will be leaving for Ohio to join her father for personal matters.
Action: None
9.) President’s Report:
*Mark updated council on the Edward Jones Account. There are 3 funds managed by Edward Jones. All gathered financial information will go out in letterform with Quarterly Statements.
Action: None
10.) Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting is Monday, June 13th, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
April 19, 2011
Attendees: Mark Lingo; Nancy Lingo; Scott Frasso; Chuck Bullock; Stan Dzierwa; Terry Simpson; Pastor Steve Higley; Lori Lingo
Absent: Al Asfour; Karen Smith
Call to Order: 7:08 p.m.
I. Devotion
II. Additions/Deletions/Modifications to agenda
A. Small group status
B. Next month’s council meeting
C. Closing schedule
Motion made to accept agenda as presented.
IV. Acceptance of Committee Reports and Minutes
1.) Financial Report:
*Reported giving through April 17, 2011 was $5377.00 behind revenue budget. Total Roof Fund giving through April 17, 2011 was $3631.00, $311.00 ahead of projected giving. *Conversion of the new software for membership/giving has been completed and further training will occur after Easter.
Action: Stan will gather a financial update and provide to Mark.
2.) Treasurer Report:
*Giving was $1095.00 over budget. Year to date was $5276.00 under budget.
*Reported expenses through the end March, 2011 were $2000.00 over budget due to snow plowing. Year to date expenses were $6000 over. Total year to date deficit is $11,200.00 through March.
Action: None
3) Facilities:
*Bids are being obtained for lawn service and spring clean up.
*Chuck continues to look into cancelling services with Shindler Elevator.
Action: None
4.) Worship/Music:
*Multi-media operators are still needed for the 9:00 and 11:00 service. Please contact Karen Smith if interested in this ministry.
*Volunteers ushers and communion assistants are needed for the 11:00 service.
*There was a great turn out for the St. George directory. Sally Headly has announced her attentions to retire as choir director for worship/music after Easter.
*Special Ministries Sunday is scheduled for May 22nd, 2011. Special Ministries will provide ushers, greeters, music for the 11:00 service. Sign-up sheets will be passed around in May for a BBQ following.
*Graduation Recognition is scheduled for June 5, 2011. Women of St. George will provide refreshments.
Action: Karen will send out an email to ushers to keep track of attendance for each service.
5.) Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*The next Soup kitchen at Spirit of Hope is scheduled for Saturday, May 28th and will continue to serve on the 4th Saturday of July, September, and November.
*St. George continues to volunteer at Gleaners Food Bank.
*St. George Food Bank is exceeding expectations after three outreach events and the numbers continue to grow. Converting a Sunday school room into a full time pantry closet was discussed. Terri will meet with key principals to finalize a floor plan, and develop a budget to discuss with council board for approval next council meeting.
*Coordination with Love Inc. and other churches continues.
*Terri along with Francie Ash will take the lead in obtaining all guest/visitor completed forms, and contact new visitors to St. George.
*Terri opened the floor for discussion for the idea of adding an alternate service for those unable to attend Sunday morning service. Many ideas were discussed and the board is in favor for further discussion.
Action: None
6.) Youth/Discipleship:
*The Murder Mystery event was a great success! That you to all that participated!
*St. George Cyclers will be participating in the Tri-Stare ride July 10-16th. Training (riding) is Monday, Wednesday and Friday (weather permitted).
*Lisa attended a day long training event in Midland called Bag of Tricks, providing the latest in hands on faith formation practices.
*Experimental worship opportunities during the evening Lenten services concluded this past week. Pastor Steve and Lisa hope to utilize some experimental worship practices in our summer worship schedule.
*The youth will provide breakfast between Easter Services with proceeds benefiting summer youth ministries.
*The last FBI class is scheduled for Wednesday, April 27th with a potluck for FBI families and mentors. Confirmation will take place on Sunday, May 1st at the 11:00 service with a reception hosted by the WOSG after both services.
*Young people interested in the First Communion class will meet with Pastor on May 7th and will be recognized at both the 9:00 and 11:00 services on May 8th, Mother’s Day.
*Sunday, May 15th will be the last day of our Sunday School program (BLAST) for the school year.
*Lisa will be on vacation May 22-26th and June 12-18th.
Action: None
7.) Human Resources:
*Due to vacation, openers and closers were limited. Fill-ins were available and the opening and closing schedule should be more consistent.
*A closing and opening schedule was discussed.
Action: None
8.) Pastor’s Report:
*Current congregant needs include five shut-ins.
* St. George Food Pantry is scheduled for the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month.
*Scheduled for the second Saturday of each month is monthly Bible Study and Baptismal preparation class.
*New member classes are scheduled for the third Saturday of each month from 10-12.
*Maundy Thursday Worship is scheduled for April 21st at 6:30 p.m.
*Good Friday Worship Service will be April 22nd at 6:30 p.m.
*Easter Sunday Service is April 24th.
*Confirmation Sunday is May 1st.
*May 8th is First Communion Celebration Sunday with Classes May 7th.
*Memorial Day service will be held at St. George Cemetery, May 30th.
*SEMI Synod Assembly with four delegates from St. George (Joe Jeffreys, Amy Cooley-Higgs, and Mackenzie Frasso) will attend May 13-14. Upcoming rehearsals/weddings are scheduled for June 10th /11th, June 17th/18th and July 29th/30th.
*Pastor’s vacation schedule will be Friday, Sept. 2-Friday, Sept. 30.
*Pastor has requested replacing high incandescent light bulbs in all of the sanctuary/fellowship area fixture areas with low wattage bulbs to help reduce electrical usage/costs.
*New pew Bibles has arrived and will be placed in the pews for Easter Sunday Service with refreshed worship folders.
*Assisting minister robes have also arrived and will begin their use on Easter Sunday.
*Pastor provided attendance comparisons for January-March, 2009-2010-2011. Attendance has been strong and is encouraging for the growth of St. George Church.
Action: None
President’s Report:
* None Reported
Action: Mark will provide the congregational with a St. George financial and fund update.
V. Closing Prayer
Meeting adjourned at 9:22 p.m. Next scheduled council meeting for May to be announced.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
February 20, 2011
Meeting: Called to order at 7:15 PM
Attendance: Pastor Steve Higley; Mark Lingo; Nancy Lingo; Al Asfour; Stan Dzierwa; Karen Smith; Terry Simpson; Lori Lingo
Absent: Scott Frazzo; Chuck Bullock
Additions: Guest Speaker-Yvonne Cavalli. Yvonne presented council with a proposal to have St. George Church act as a facility location to host as a food pantry or food bank in the city Brighton. Currently Livingston County food banks are at capacity leaving 800 families missing meals and there are no food banks available in Brighton. Yvonne proposed providing pre-packaged food items, feeding up to 50 families twice a month through St. George facilities (the second and fourth Saturday of each month from 9-12). Questions/discussion from council to proceed with the proposal developed. Motion presented by Al. No discussion. Second by Karen and carried unanimously, however contingent on schedule conflicts and insurance liabilities.
Action: Pastor Steve will investigate potential schedule conflicts and Stan will investigate potential insurance liabilities.
1. Financial Report:
*Giving as of February 20th, 2011 was $5,356.32 behind revenue budget. Roof fund giving as of February 20th, 2011 was $1616.00.
Action: None
2. Treasurer Report:
*Expenses through January 31, 2011 were $239.00 over budget, while revenue during the five weeks in January was within budget. Staff continues to be diligent in keeping expenses down. *Stan requested staff keep all packing slips when receiving packages for accounting purposes.
Action: Pastor Steve will remind staff to keep packing slips.
3. Facilities:
*None Reported
Action: None
4. Worship/Music:
*Additional operators for the multimedia system are needed for the 9am service. Those interested, please contact Karen Smith.
*The internet connection in the balcony is working well.
*Due to Easter and Confirmation Sunday, First Communion dates and times will be rescheduled and announced when determined.
*St. George directory pictures will take place March 24-28. Sign up for appointment times can be scheduled on St. George website or between services. Contact Karen Smith or Pat Thomas for questions or more information.
*Pat Thomas and Sally Headley will discuss the purchase of new pew Bibles through the Women’s Group
Action: None
5. Evangelism and Social Concerns:
*Commitment with Spirit of Hope continues in 2011, with the next scheduled event occurring Saturday, March 26th. Upcoming events are scheduled the last Saturday of May, July, September, and November. Sheri Circele has led a group of volunteers at Gleaners for the second month in a row with the program now well underway. The number of St. George volunteers has been remarkable!
*St George is moving ahead with membership in Love Inc, a program designed to align needs from members in the community with “Gap Ministries” provided by area churches. Should a person in need come to St. George for assistance in some way, they would be directed to Love Inc, and they would take the responsibility to coordinate services.
*Kathy Bugaski has started her tenure as a board member for Sunshine School and will be updating the board periodically on progress/needs/events.
*St. George (Terri Simpson) will complete another application for foundation funds through Mt. Zion Lutheran Church Foundation. Last year St. George was successfully awarded a $1500.00 grant for services related to feeding/clothing the poor in SE Michigan.
*Francie Ash and Terri Simpson continue to work together on new member outreach.
Action: *None Reported
6. Youth/Discipleship:
*Murder Mystery Dinner Fund Raiser is scheduled for Saturday, March 12th.
*Upcoming summer ministry programs include “Bridges Not Walls”. This is an exchange program between youth of the ELCA and ELCJHL (Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy land) that began in 2005. St. George has been at the forefront of the ongoing ministry and has become a model throughout the ELCA church wide. St. George has had several young leaders from out congregation who have taken on this ministry with great enthusiasm. This summer ELCA is inviting young people fro EKCJHL to Southeast MI. They are asking SEMI Synod partner congregations, such as St. George, to help financially contribute by sponsoring one or two young people. More information to follow next month. The Senior High Adventure is the second summer ministry program scheduled. This Senior High Adventure is a Road Trip Adventure through Living Water Ministries to Chicago in mid-July. Road Trip Adventures focuses on growing the faith of young people through service and experiential learning.
Action: None
7. Human Resources:
*None Reported
8. Pastor’s Report:
* Not Available
Action: None
9. President’s Report:
*Mark presented several discussion items including training for the Open/Closers, Recognition Sunday, Small groups, and Financial Accounts update (Mark has a meeting scheduled the second week of March to continue to understand the status of current funds). .
Meeting adjourned at 9:03 PM. The next scheduled council meeting is March 17, 2011.
Respectfully submitted,
Lori Lingo
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