Congregational Council

Congregational Council – April 26, 2012

April 26, 2012 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes

We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others” (Matthew 22:36-39)

Council Members Present: Gil Brucken, Don Canfield, Dave Edinger, Brie Evans (ex-officio), Linda Fenn, Ron Greinke, Beth Hari, Cheri Ingraham, Jane Langol, Carl Skorepa, Dave Weber, Mark Woodling

Staff Present: Kelly Charnley, Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Pastor Neal Sadler

Visiting from Property and Grounds: Bob Montgomery

Call to Order and Opening:
Moderator Carl Skorepa opened the meeting with concerns and joys.    A devotional was read, discussed and tied into the purpose of this council and Carl led the council in prayer.

Minutes:
The March 22nd meeting minutes were distributed.     Beth Hari moved to approve the minutes, Linda Fenn seconded the motion and the minutes were unanimously accepted.   Dave Weber asked liaison members to go back to their teams to remind them that minutes or condensed minutes need to be emailed to him for the website.   If minutes are taken in freehand, Dave will accept them mailed as well.

Finance:
Kelly Charnley disturbed the current financial report for the first quarter.   Kelly relayed that an insurance tax credit will hit the books in April.   Ron Greinke pointed out that the budget is as forecasted.

Team Reports:

Mission Leadership Team:
Beth Hari reported that there is no scribe for this team and no minutes were distributed to date.     The care package was sent to Suzi Kay and it was received and well appreciated.   The Local Mission project is moving forward slowly.  Sign up sheets are up and a committee will be formed.   The MLT did not approve paying for the property and grounds custodian cost for the boy scout pancake breakfast.

Justice and Witness Team: Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield reported that a speaker came to discuss Justice LED program which is not issued based but an educational curriculum.  The team is reviewing the curriculum to see if it would be appropriate for our church.    The Easter bag project was a great success.

Worship: Pastor Neal Sadler relayed that there was good feedback on all the Easter services.   Attendance wasn’t high for Thursday and Friday but feedback from those who participated was very positive.

Staffing: Dave Weber revisited the issue of changing the term “staff”.  New options were discussed:    congregational family servants, servant disciples, servants in sanctuary, servants for Jesus, disciples of direction, pastoral disciples, office disciples, program disciples.     The council discussed objections to the term “servant”.     Terms to be discussed at the next employee meeting.

Evangelism:
Don Canfield reported that there were only 3 people in attendance at the last meeting including himself and Pastor Neal.     Don reviewed that there were greeters at each door on Easter Sunday and parking lot assistants.    The team would like to continue to do that going forward.     4th of July parade plans are moving forward.   Buehler’s will provide 15 grocery carts for the church to decorate and push during the parade to collect food items.  Feeding Medina County will work with us on publicity so that people will know to bring non perishables items to the parade.   Volunteers will be needed to help with the parade plans.   Dave Weber added that the Dresden restaurant group (which includes Longhorn) daily donates left over food to groups.   Linda Fenn recommended publicizing the 4th of July donation at the Memorial Day parade and the Antique Show.   Pastor Neal reminded the group that we will have a tent at the Memorial Day Parade as well.     Pastor Neal met with Main Street Medina to see if there was a partnership opportunity for the church even though the group is more geared towards businesses.     The group is open to ideas for future partnerships.   Don reported that the team is looking to put articles in the local papers to publicize church projects.

Caring Team: Linda Fenn relayed that the team is down to 6 members and there is no scribe and no designated leader.    Crafts will be out this Sunday to be taken to nursing homes and shut ins.    Memorial Day and the Ice Cream social will be their next events.    The hospice presentation by Beth McGuire last Wednesday was well received.     Dave also added that there are agencies that are now providing adult sitting services for older home bound adults.

Discipleship:
There is no council liaison for DELT.   Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield reported that VBS registration is underway and registration is on line this year.    On Saturday May 5th at 9 am there will be a women’s breakfast service project.   Dave Weber informed the group that there are publishers that will donate books for literacy which might be something DELT could access.   Pastor Mariah added that it may be something that the Justice team would be interested in pursuing for the jail library.

Finance Team : Ron Greinke relayed that there was tweaking to the undesignated gift policy.    The revised policy will be emailed to council.   The team did not meet last month because there were not enough members to have a quorum.

Endowment Team: Jane Langol reported the team met yesterday.   The endowment fund is now at $160,801 which is an increase.     The Founder’s Day effort was $2,212.   Kelly Charnley is keeping track of the fund.    The portfolio is quite large and is being reviewed to report on the individual holdings.    Ron Greinke said 60% is invested in the S&P.   The other 40% is a fixed income fund.
A possible program was discussed to encourage bequests and updating pew rack brochures.   The team will meet again in September.

Hobby Horse: The art show was last week.   Pastor Neal reported that hundreds of people came through to see the art work.    Jane Langol asked if that was an opportunity to promote the church.  Pastor Neal was present and greeted visitors at the open house.    Linda Fenn reported that the next meeting is May 2nd.    There may be an impact in enrollment because of the Methodist church move.  Cheri Ingraham reported that Vicky Marty relayed that classes are almost full and that there will need to be a waiting list.

Property and Grounds Team: Dave Edinger reported that mowing is going well.     Dave also relayed that Gil sent an email regarding the Wi-Fi project to keep property and grounds in the loop.    Terry Rhodes has been engaged to assist.    Window repair and replacement is underway in the chapel and music room and is on schedule.    The East room door will be replaced but it was worked on and it’s operating more smoothly.    Bob Montgomery reported that there was a $2000 expenditure that is not recoverable.     A company was hired to do an energy survey of the building and work with First Energy to help save the church on electric consumption.   The company has been dissolved and there are no assets listed in state that the church could go after in small claims court.    This company has defrauded multiple churches and the man is currently in jail.     The First Energy piece of this is legitimate and the property and grounds team will continue to pursue that.      The yearly electric bill for the church is currently just shy of $10,000.

Pastoral Relations: Nothing to report.

Staffing:  Jane Langol reported the search for the gathering keyboardist is still on going and moving slowly.     It is impacting the gathering service and attendance is down.

Pastors’ Reports:

Pastor Neal Sadler:
The Men’s Retreat starts tomorrow at Gil Brucken’s cottage.
The Costa Rica reunion meeting will be June 2nd at Pastor Neal’s home.    The meeting is also for those interested in attending next year.   Dates for the next trip will be discussed.    Pastor Neal is taking vacation next winter to do a mission trip with Caroline’s family to Costa Rica.
Alive on the Square – teams are considering a different format this year to have more activities on the square.

Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield:
Confirmation Sunday is May 6th at a unified service at 10 am.  There are 10 confirmands that will be joining the church.
Rehearsal and dinner for the confirmands will be May 2nd.
The whole church dinner is this Sunday, April 29th and is sponsored by the middle school youth group, the former gourmet club and the Mission Leadership Team.    Donations will go to the Hiram Farms mission trip.
The East room has a tree with leaves with ideas on how to be more “green”.
The new lock in practices are in effect and were followed at the last middle school lock in.
Pastor Mariah’s vacation:   May 8th -15th.
Eastern Congregation Association meeting is May 5th and Mariah and Julie Kraus are planning on attending.
The Medina High School Baccalaureate service is May 31st at Cornerstone.

Email List:
A volunteer has stepped forward to help put together the list.  A criteria needs to be established when the email list will be used.

Wi-Fi Follow Up:
Carl Skorepa summarized Gil Brucken’s report.    The costs may be less than was proposed at the last meeting and the wifi setup will be implemented in phases.    Office computers will be segregated.    Passwords will be necessary for guests but there will be no web filtering.  There will need to be some experimentation with how far the signal will cover.     Hobby Horse is willing to pay for Wi Fi for their classrooms.   Target date is 9/1.

Motto and T-Shirts:
The teams are still reviewing the mottos.    There are not many of the old t-shirts left.    Dave Weber suggested that when church members are out in the community doing projects that we should wear the t-shirts.

Confirmation Coffee Hour:
The Council is hosting coffee hour on May 6th.  Carl Skorepa will take care of getting the donuts, Beth Hari and  Linda Fenn offered to serve.  Beth Hari and Cheri Ingraham offered to bring additional food as well.    Council members were asked to stay to greet and help serve/clean up.

Other Business:

Dave Weber distributed a sample brochure for our community services project that would include who we are and how we can serve.   Brochures could be distributed in the immediate area around the church.      Services that will be provided need to be further discussed.

Closing: Carl Skorepa led a closing prayer and adjourned the meeting.

Next Council Meeting: May 24, 2012, 7 pm

Minutes recorded and respectfully submitted by,
Brie Evans, Clerk

Congregational Council Meeting Minutes – March 22, 2012

March 22, 2012 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes

We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others” (Matthew 22:36-39)

Council Members Present: Gil Brucken, Don Canfield, Dave Edinger, Brie Evans (ex-officio), Linda Fenn, Ron Greinke, Beth Hari, Carl Skorepa

Council Members Absent: Cheri Ingraham, Jane Longol, Becky Weber, Dave Weber, Mark Woodling

Staff Present: Kelly Charnley, Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Pastor Neal Sadler

Gathering Representative Present:  Mary Ann Blosser

Call to Order and Opening:
Moderator Carl Skorepa opened the meeting in prayer.    Joys and concerns were shared.   A devotional was read, discussed and tied into the purpose of this council.

Minutes:
The March 1st meeting minutes were distributed.     Beth Hari moved to approve the minutes,  Linda Fenn seconded the motion and the minutes were unanimously accepted.

Finance:
Kelly Charnley did not have a new report to distribute because the month of March hasn’t been closed out yet.    Kelly is forecasting no change in the financial status of the church.

Motto and Mission Momentum:
Beth Hari reported that the Mission Leadership Team was receptive to working on the motto but would like to see the quotes that were already discussed.  Carl will email the quotes.   Other quotes were discussed:  “Living the Love of Christ”, “Open Doors, Open Minds, Open Hearts” (although the later is close to the Methodist Motto).  There was a discussion that once a motto is decided on the Teams could discuss how the motto could be incorporated into their team’s vision.       Council also discussed doing a photo essay to represent the new motto, having a scripture series based on the motto and other materials.

Email List:
Gil Brucken brought up that some churches email out their bulletins weekly and announcements of time sensitive issues.  Kelly Charnley pointed out that there are already one hundred or so members that get the weekly Messenger email.   Multiple members on council were not aware that this was being done.   Gil suggested putting something in the bulletin to let members of the congregation know that this is available.   Gil pointed out that there are some legalities that need to be followed for mass emailings including a way for members to unsubscribe.     Council discussed the need for an additional email for deaths and time sensitive “emergency” announcements.     Council discussed expanding the emails to include everyone in the congregation that has an email in the data base.       Emails would be sent from a different address than ucc financial.    Information about the emails will be put in the Messenger.   Gil Brucken will connect with Kelly Charnley about the logistics and this would be worked on after Easter.

Wi-Fi Ucc Follow Up:
Gil Brucken reported that the cost of covering the whole church is prohibitive.   Gil suggested limiting Wi-Fi to the main office, the East Room, the Sanctuary, Fellowship Hall and the classrooms.      Network traffic would need to be isolated from the church systems to prevent the spread of viruses.    Estimated costs are:  $225 to isolate the church network from the guest’s network and $225 per area for the wireless systems.   Total estimate would be $1100-$1200 which is currently unbudgeted.   The costs are all for hardware purchases and there would be no ongoing carrying costs.    Terry Rhodes would be able to help with installation.     The need for password protection was discussed and possibly having some filters.   Gil Brucken will follow up further and report back to council next month.     Carl Skorepa suggested having a policy and procedure for Wi-Fi users.

Leadership Roster Changes/Clarification:
Beth Hari reported that Rick Sporano is on the Mission Leadership Team.   Gil Brucken moved to approve Rick for the MLT, Beth Hari seconded and the council unanimously confirmed Rick for the Mission Leadership Team.
Becky Weber resigned as liaison for DELT and it is council’s responsibility to fill this role.    The group will consider possible candidates.

Pastors’ Reports:

Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield:
The confirmation retreat was this past weekend and was a very good experience.
Mariah stressed how important it is for the confirmands to have connections with adults in the congregation.
Confirmation Sunday is May 6th at a unified service.  There are 10 confirmands that will hopefully be confirmed.
Youth Sunday was a great success.
Elementary youth talent show was also very successful.
17 are going to Hiram Farms on the middle school mission trip.    There are three fund raisers for this trip – the on going fair trade coffee sale,  the Easter chocolate sale, and whole church dinner on April 20th.
April 22nd is Earth Day and there will be a “celebration of creation” and the blessing of the animals.
Chain Breaking Faith Easter project is going well and there are just a few eggs left.   The Eastern Ohio Conference is using the chain breaking faith model for other congregations.

Pastor Neal Sadler:
The Lenten series is going well and attendance has been around 30 adults and 10 kids.   Pastor Mariah added that the Gathering Service will be doing a recap of the Lenten series on April 15.
Holy week starts a week from Sunday:
April 1:  Palm Sunday and we will have a procession of palms at all services
April 5:  Maundy Thursday theme, at the Table with Jesus
April 6:  Good Friday service at 7 pm in Fellowship Hall
April 8:  Easter Sunday, sunrise service at Spring Grove Chapel and at the 10:30 service members of the congregation are invited to sing or play instruments in the Halleluiah Chorus.
A woman broke her arm after services this past Sunday.   Pastor Mariah suggested adding her to the bread list.
The Costa Rica reunion meeting will be June 2nd at Pastor Neal’s home.    The meeting is also for those interested in attending next year.   Dates for the next trip will be discussed.
Gil Brucken is hosting the men’s retreat April 27-29th.

Team Reports:

Staffing: Pastor Neal updated that there hasn’t been much luck in finding a keyboardist for the Gathering service.     A potential person’s name has been emailed to Jane Langol at the recommendation of the Mission Leadership Team.   Jane will also be running ads.  Other colleges/conservatories were discussed where we could expand the search.   Some of the unique challenges for this position were discussed.  Carl Skorepa added that NEOHIOPAL is a list serve for jobs that we could access.   Carl will forward the information to Jane.

Worship: Gil Brucken did not go to the last meeting but Pastor Neal Sadler added that the team discussed Holy Week services.   The team will not meet in April.

Evangelism:
Don Canfield reported that May 6th and May 20th will be the next new member class.  The new members will join in June.
The Easter banner will be up tomorrow and information sent to local papers.   Don reported the need for some volunteers on Easter Sunday to help with parking challenges and for people to man all the doors.   Suggestions were discussed on how to alleviate parking issues and how to get visitors into the church.
There will be a meeting with the ushers after Easter to brainstorm how we can improve our welcoming process.
The team would like an article about the Costa Rica mission trip to be submitted to the local papers.
The Memorial Day parade popcorn and lemonade stand will be done again.   There will also be a church presence at the Antique Show in June but the team needs to decide what we would like to do.    The church will also be involved in the July 4th parade.

Caring Team: Linda Fenn relayed that there was no meeting this month.

Discipleship:
Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield reported that May 5th will be a mother-daughter brunch.
VBS will be June 11 – 15 and the theme will be the national parks.

Mission Leadership Team:
Beth Hari reported that up to $200 was approved for the care package for Suzie Kay.  Blank note cards will be put on the Circle of Caring table and the youth will write notes and draw pictures.
Lynn Leckie is coordinating the special repair project program.     Love Inc. in Brunswick gave Lynn a lead for the next project.   Release and Liability forms were drawn up and a volunteer list will be created.
Community garden ideas are still being discussed by the team.    Julie Kraus is going to talk to Justice and Witness for a potential partnership.  Kelly Charnley relayed that the schools are looking for volunteers to help with their community gardens.   Beth Hari will report that back to the team.

Justice and Witness Team: Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield reported that there is a National office curriculum for how to do justice work.   Rev. Kelly Bird will be coming to our church on April 15 or 29th  to see is this is a curriculum that would be helpful for us to pursue.

The Gathering:    Attendance is down at the Gathering and there are inconsistencies week to week in numbers.  There was discussion that the music issues may be contributing to this and that the addition of the keyboardist/music director may draw more people back to the service.    More and more people are being moved to preach.     Pastor Mariah relayed that there are resources available and book studies to help build momentum/attendance.  There was a discussion about getting the word out better marking in the community about the different types of services we offer.

Property and Grounds Team: Dave Edinger reported the team is working on a lawn care process for this year and hiring help from the outside.     There will be no landscaping changes until the windows are repaired.      The planters will be back.
Boy Scout Troop 501 from the Methodist Church traditionally do a pancake breakfast on Memorial Day and asked if they could use our kitchen and facilities since their church is moving to Foote Road.   They will use portable electric grills and would need to use the kitchen from 7 until noon.     Ordinarily there would be a charge to use Fellowship Hall but we will wave the fee.    We will need our custodian on site and they may need to pay for his time although Beth Hari will go to the Mission Leadership Team to see if local missions money could be used to cover that cost.    There may be an opportunity to promote our programs during the pancake breakfast.
The music room and chapel windows will be replaced/restored starting July 23rd.  The project will be completed by the end of August.    The East Room door is going to be replaced as well.   Bids are being taken now.    The front doors will also replacing.

Finance Team : Ron Greinke emailed the White Paper Policy outlining recommendations for how the church should handle undesignated donations in advance of the meeting.     Council to review the policy and give feedback.
2019 Celebration to celebrate the 200th anniversary capital campaign discussed.    The goal would be a five year, long range campaign to fund all building and property projects with a goal of raising $350,000 – $400,000.
Dave Edinger also relayed that the Property and Grounds Team would like to build a proper main entrance at the north door.     An elevator also needs to be added near that entrance.

No other Team reports

Other Business:
Ice Cream Social:   Council agreed to sponsor a social during the summer band concerts.  Kelly Charnley to submit the application.

Name Tag Holders were all redone by Dorie Christie

Closing: Pastor Neal led a closing prayer and Carl Skorepa adjourned the meeting.

Next Council Meeting: April 26, 2012, 7 pm

Minutes recorded and respectfully submitted by,
Brie Evans, Clerk

Congregational Council – March 1, 2012

March 1, 2012 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes

We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others” (Matthew 22:36-39)

Council Members Present: Don Canfield, Brie Evans (ex-officio), Linda Fenn, Ron Greinke, Beth Hari, Cheri Ingraham, Jane Longol, Carl Skorepa, Dave Weber, Mark Woodling
Council Members Absent: Gil Brucken, Dave Edinger, Becky Weber

Staff Present: Kelly Charnley, Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Pastor Neal Sadler

Call to Order and Opening

Moderator Carl Skorepa called the meeting to order, opened with a prayer and devotional.  Discussion followed about the devotional.   Prayer concerns and joys were shared.    Team members introduced themselves and talked about their involvement in the church.

Minutes:
The January meeting minutes were distributed.   Beth Hari motioned to approve the minutes, Jane Langol seconded and the motion to approve the minutes was unanimously carried.

Finance:
Kelly Charnley distributed the operating budget and noted that there was no change in the shortfall since the budget was approved.   Pastor Neal Sadler noted that the current shortfall is not unusual for this time of year.

Constitutional Review:
Carl Skorepa discussed a request from the Gathering Team to attend council.    There was further discussion that any one is welcome to attend Council but not as a liaison/voting member as per the church constitution.    Carl relayed that he would be writing a reminder to the congregation that anyone is welcomed to attend Coucil.

Team Membership: It was brought to Council to approve Jeaninne Murray to serve on the Staffing Team and Jane Langol to serve on Justice and Witness Team for 2012.  Dave Weber moved to approve the two team members, Mark Woodling seconded the motion and it was unanimously carried.

Motto and Mission Momentum:
Carl Skorepa reviewed the need to have a motto or slogan that identifies who we are and to unify us as a church.  Posters were made at the leadership retreat and Carl would like the liaisons to take them to their team meetings to spur feedback and input to come up with a catch phrase.       Beth Hari shared that the feedback she received from her team was not positive and expressed concerned about taking the posters.    Carl expressed concern about not losing the momentum from the retreat.   Jane Langol shared that the church had an old phrase that we used in the past: “Forward in Faith”.    Beth Hari shared that one of the key themes she heard at the retreat was how open Medina UCC is and perhaps that could be incorporated into the motto.    Cheri Ingraham shared that the “God is still speaking” motto automatically identifies us and that fellowship is important to our church.   Dave Weber added that “Loving, Growing and Serving” was used on the back of t-shirts recently.   Pastor Neal Sadler discussed the difference between a mission statement and motto that really speaks to the root of what we do at Medina UCC.    He recommended praying and thinking on it.      Cheri Ingraham suggested getting suggestions from the youth.     Liaisons will go back to their teams and ask for input and Beth Hari suggested putting something in the messenger so that everyone can participate.       Carl will leave the posters in a tube in the office and write something from the messenger.     Team members will come back to the next meeting with feedback and ideas.

Coffee Hour:
Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield asked Council to host Coffee Hour on May 6th for a united service for Confirmation at 10:30.   Pastor Neal explained that there will be a Wednesday dinner for the confirmation class and their families but that the service will be the rite of confirmation.     Details will be discussed at the March meeting but the Council will host the coffee hour.     Pastor Mariah added that the youth would prefer donuts to cake at coffee hour.

Wi-Fi UCC Follow up:

Pastor Neal relayed that Terry Rhodes did all the networking for the church and would be the person to talk to.    Kelly Charnley pointed out that this was not in the budget so costs would need to be considered.    She also requested that staff computers remain hard wired.     Linda Fenn raised the question as to the benefit to having Wi-Fi at the church.     It was pointed out that it could be helpful to connect to the UCC website during meetings, for youth and for skyping from mission trips.

Community Garden/Planters:

Carl Skorepa relayed that Julie Kraus brought up doing a garden as a joint venture between Mission, Property and Grounds, and Evangelism.   The team discussed concerns that the green space is used by the preschool and VBS.    It was also discussed that we shouldn’t do landscaping until the windows in the back of the building are replaced because the landscaping would be ripped up.    Ron Greinke discussed that other churches have memorial gardens were people’s ashes could be interred.

Pastors’ Report:

Pastor Neal Sadler:
Pastor Neal Sadler reported that the Costa Rica trip was very successful and two homes were built.   There will be a reunion meeting in April to discuss next year’s trip.
Time and Talent Team – A new member of the team will input the information from the sheets.
Bible Study for People in their 50s has started and looks like a good group.
The Men’s Retreat will be April 27-29th at Temple Hills but planning needs to begin.
The Lenten Series began last night with the three studies:  The Cow in the Parking Lot:  Relationships and Communications, Families Set Free for busy families and Jesus I Never Knew, how Jesus is portrayed in the movies.     Turnout was good and childcare was provided.    Pastor Neal estimated 30 adults and 10 children in attendance.
Cornell Carter’s installation is this coming Sunday.    The flowers on our altar will be in celebration of his installation at Second Baptist.
Pastor Neal will be on vacation March 8 – 15.
The schedule for the Lenten series desserts were reviewed.
Pastor Neal reviewed upcoming dates for special services around Easter:
April 5:  Maundy Thursday
April 7:  Easter Egg Hunt at First Christian
April 8:  Easter

Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield:
Confirmation is going well this year and there is a retreat March 16-18 at Temple Hills for confirmands and their sponsors.     They are going to mass at St. Francis this Sunday.
Fund raising:   Mariah reviewed that the middle school youth group is selling free trade coffee this week and next for their Hiram Farms mission trip and they will also be making Easter candy.        There have also been many basket donated for the High School raffle.       The middle school youth will like to do an all church dinner fundraiser on April 29th.   The theme for Youth Sunday this year is:  Youth Who Say Yes to God.    All can be called to God at any age.
Easter Bag Outreach project from Chain Breaking Faith is coming up and will be launched on March 11th and a blessing of the bags on Palm Sunday.
On March 18th the elementary youth group talent show at 5:45 in the community  room.
There will be a change in leadership for youth group advisors for next year.    Beth Starling will be the advisor for High School, Kevin Swantek offered to do Middle School but is open to help for the High School.    Ideally Mariah would like a male and female for each group.   More volunteers are needed to help.

Team Reports:

Worship:   Carl Skorepa reported for Gil Brucken that the Gathering is doing a service on Good Friday evening and the Spring Grove Cemetery Chapel has been reserved for Easter Sunday morning at 7 am.

Gathering Team: Carl Skorepa reported that they are meeting consistently.

Evangelism: No report from Don Canfield since the team has not met since the last meeting.     Don pointed out that the next meeting is on election day and that it may be better to reschedule.

Caring Team: Linda Fenn report 6-7 projects happening.   Linda stressed that there needs to be better communication for special Sundays.

Discipleship:  Dave Weber reported for Becky Weber that the team is working on a basket for the high school raffle.     Mariah added that there is talk of a mother-daughter event, FISH was discussed and the Lenten series.

Mission Leadership Team: Beth Hari reported that there was low turn out at the meeting.   Rachel White is a new member of that team.   They are doing a mission related basket for the raffle.    Blanket Sunday brought in $700.     Pastor Neal added that we do many special offerings at our church and that our members are very generous.    The Amanda Fund offering will be held on Mother’s Day.    Carl suggested Susie Kay may be a good resource for the MLT.    She is due back around Christmas time but may have another trip.    There was discussion that we could send her a care package.     Beth will find out what types of items would be helpful in the package and we could also do a note shower.    Carl will put something in the messenger to be put in the offering plate and the youth could draw pictures for the package as well.   The package could go out around April 1st.

Justice and Witness Team: Dave Weber reported that a trainer will be working with the team.

The Gathering: No report but it was noted that Dave Sinclair runs the team and they meet on Saturday.

Property and Grounds Team: Pastor Neal Sadler reported for Dave Edinger that we needed new plugs near the sink/water in the kitchen and the project was more extensive than originally planned.    Terry spent multiple days working on the project.  Linda Fenn suggested a word of thanks to Terry be placed in the messenger.

Finance Team : Ron Greinke reported that Property and Grounds wanted approval to go into a deficit for the stained glass windows project.    There is not enough money to cover all the expenses.   $19,000 have been pledged or are currently in the capital fund but the project will cost $26,000.     A funding drive planned this summer to raise the additional $7,000.    The operating reserve will fund the difference for now.    Whitney Stained Glass Company in Cleveland is doing the work again.    This should complete the stained glass project.      A White Paper Document is being worked on to denote how the church will handle unexpected donations.     Ron will bring the guidelines to the next meeting and Council will need to approve them.     Linda Fenn asked if there are any undesignated gifts that could be used towards the stained glass project.    Kelly Charnley will look into that possibility.

Hobby Horse:  Linda Fenn relayed that Vicky Marty will be on vacation but that everything is going well.    Teachers are still covering for Barb Kiser.

Other Team reports:

Staffing: Jane Langol reported that the custodian’s evaluation is coming up.     Supplies will need to be purchased.    Jane also reported that The Gathering is requesting a keyboard person and music manager for that service and Staffing feels that it needs to be a paid position since volunteers were not found.     Carl Skorepa asked how we will be funding this position.       Jane relayed that the hours will only be 4-6 hours/week so the cost will be minimal.     The team brainstormed possible contact people to help with the search.

Endowment: Jane Langol relayed that the last phase of the quilt raffle is happening.    A baby will pull the winning ticket representing the future of the church.    Kelly Charnley reported that $536 in raffle tickets have been sold and there are additional donations as well.       Beth Hari offered thanks to Jane for Founder’s Day.    A reinterpreted version of that could happen for next year.
There was a discussion of saving all the materials from the service for our 200th anniversary celebration.

Other Business:

Antique Show: Jane Langol reported that it will be held on the Square on Sunday June 24, 2012 and could be an opportunity for the church to gain some exposure.

Main Street Medina: There was discussion about participating and interfacing more with the group.   Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield relayed that they sent us an application but it was a business agreement that didn’t apply to a church.   Beth Hari suggested that we could have a representative at the meetings but not be officially members of Main Street Medina.

New Name for Staff: Dave Weber led a discussion of the language we use around staff and that as a church our staff are really servant shepherds.     Dave requested that Council think about a change in language.

Closing: Pastor Mariah Marlin-Warfield led a closing prayer and Carl Skorepa adjourned the meeting.

Next Council Meeting:   March 22, 2012, 7 pm

Minutes recorded and respectfully submitted by,
Brie Evans, Clerk

Congregational Council Mtg – Jan. 26, 2012

January 26, 2012 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Jane Langol, Beth Hari, Dave Weber, Don Canfield, Dave Edinger, Gil Brucken, Ron Greinke, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Nick North, Becky Weber
Staff Present: Neal Sadler, Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Kelly Charnley
Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and opened with a devotional about Thomas and Martha, very human figures from the Bible to whom we can relate: Thomas with his doubts and Martha with her anxieties and busyness.  Pastor Neal then led an opening prayer.  With a quorum present for the first time in the last few months, Mark asked for a motion to approve the minutes from the September 22, October 27, and November 17, 2011 Council meetings.  Beth Hari made such a motion; Ron Greinke seconded.  Motion carried.

Hobby Horse Preschool By-Laws
After notation of a spacing error in the opening quote from Proverbs and some clarifying discussion regarding the Finance Team’s role in overseeing the Hobby Horse budget, Jane Langol made a motion that the new Hobby Horse Preschool Team By-Laws be approved as submitted.  Don Canfield seconded.  Motion carried.
Stewardship/2012 Budget
Mark thanked Gil Brucken for his January 22 pulpit announcement.  Kelly reported that $4,260 in additional funds were pledged in the week following, coming from two additional pledges and two previously-submitted pledges being increased.  Gil will do another pulpit talk on January 29.  In addition to the pulpit and  bulletin announcements, Gil noted that letters have gone out to non-pledgers and a reminder will be posted on Facebook.  Dave Weber reminded Council that pledging is a responsibility of membership set forth in the Constitution.
Kelly Charnley walked Council through a worksheet comparing 2011 (budget & actual) to 2012 budget figures.  Pledges to date, including the just-added amount noted above, still leave us approximately $45,000 below budget.  Factoring in an additional $22,740 in hoped-for pledged income still leaves a projected net loss of approximately $23,266.  Ron noted that we generally run around  6% under budget.  This knowledge coupled with the fact that our reserve is currently at a healthy 19% means we will likely navigate through this.  However, in a worst case scenario, if no additional pledged income were to come in at this point, use of reserve funds to make up this difference would drop reserve funds to 10%, which would leave us dangerously below our stated 15% reserve goal.  In addition to continuing efforts to get more pledges in, Kelly reminded all teams to watch expenditures early in 2012 till the hoped-for catch-up in income occurs.
Jane updated Council on our new custodians, husband & wife team Jerry and Deborah Thompson,  sharing one position, who started 1-17-12.  The position calls for 20 hours per week (5 days X 4 hrs), paid at a rate of $15 per hour.  Approximate annual cost will be $16,000.  While there are probationary benchmarks ahead at 30, 60 and 90 days, the arrangement seems to be working well so far.  Mark’s Cleaning Service, employed over the last 18 months, will be phased out in the coming month.  Coming back to the budget discussion, it was stressed that the new staff custodians will not significantly add to the church’s overall expenses, compared to expenditures to Mark’s and Derrel Larsen in these last 18 months.
Also relating to the budget discussion, Mark noted that a new keyboard player/band leader is needed for the Gathering service and that the idea of making this a paid position is being explored.  Miki Saito who has volunteered in this capacity most recently has taken a music director position at another church.  A job description now being developed will be reviewed with the Gathering Team on February 4 and will then be passed to the Staffing Team.  Bath UCC was suggested as a source for possible contacts.  Pastor Neal expressed his belief that a skilled musician in this capacity will pay for him or herself, adding that it is a bit remarkable that the Gathering service has endured this long without any paid music leadership.  Generally speaking, Neal observed that the Gathering service seems to be on a smoother road with new energy evident in recent weeks.
Gil proposed that Council delay on formally approving the 2012 budget for another week, in hopes that members can yet be motivated to help reduce the projected deficit.   Dave Edinger suggested that we endorse the 2012 budget as it stands currently and then continue work to reduce the deficit.  Neal remarked that every church budget needs a faith component and added this positive note: pledged income has risen 20% in the last three years compared to 10% in the previous ten years.  Carl Skorepa made a motion that we postpone an approval vote on the 2012 budget till February 2, at which time a vote will taken via email.  Gil seconded the motion.   Motion carried.
Addendum: Mark reported that the revised 2012 operating budget with figures updated by Kelly to reflect additional/increased pledges received through February 2, 2012 (nearly  $11,000 in additional pledged income) was unanimously approved by Council in a vote taken via email and tallied February 3, 2012.
Open Council & Team Positions
Neal noted that all Teams are working on filling roster vacancies created by those whose terms end with the Annual Meeting.  Mark observed that this is Jane’s last Council meeting in the Immediate Past Moderator role and Dan Hunter’s last Council meeting as Clerk.  (In December, Dan announced his intention to resign from the Clerk position, to be effective at the conclusion of the upcoming Annual Meeting.).  Mark thanked both Jane and Dan for their service in these roles.  Individuals to fill the Moderator Elect and Clerk positions are now being sought.  Neal added that Nick North plans to step down as Worship Team liaison.  Gil expressed interest in staying on Council, but switching from Stewardship liaison to another position—perhaps Worship or Caring liaison.  The busiest time of year for Stewardship coincides with his busiest time of the year at work.

Annual Meeting Preparation
Kelly wanted to make sure that Council recognizes Cindy Korecky’s efforts in navigating through some headaches in setting up and making improvements upon the Annual Report.  Mark also thanked Kelly for her contributions to the Annual Report.  It was noted that the roster pages listing the various Leadership Team positions will be a separate handout and not part of the bound Annual Report this year.  Further, it was noted that the absence of a report from the Justice & Witness Team is not an oversight.  Team Leader Rick Legenza elected not to submit a report in light of the Team’s inactivity in the past year.
February Leadership Retreat
Neal announced a new date for this event: Saturday, February 25 at Western Reserve Masonic Community (WRMC).  The guest speaker will be Jim Oates, the Ohio Conference’s Church Vitality Coach.  Neal expects that Jim will lead our group to reflect upon how we create a unified vision and how we define our calling and our mission.  Like last year, lunch will be served by WRMC staff, with a free-will offering to defray costs.  To arrange scheduling so that the next Council meeting falls after this retreat event, it was agreed that the next Council will be moved from February 23 (our regular 4th Thursday) to March 1.  With this move, Council will likely meet twice in March, on the 1st and on the 22nd.
Brief Team Reports (Resource/Additional)
Finance: Ron announced that the Finance Team has approved a change in the church’s property and liability insurance to Cincinnati Insurance Company, a move that will save $1,200 in this new year.  Also, Finance has given the Property & Grounds Team approval for a $26,000 expenditure for stained glass window repairs in the choir room and chapel.
Property & Grounds: Dave Edinger noted that recently-completed repairs to the refrigerator/ freezer should keep it going for another year.  Dave added that P & G is working with First Energy on an energy survey with the goal of reducing costs.  Dave also asked Council members to note the exterior church lighting now in place, both for security reasons and to better showcase the church building to the community.
Staffing: Beyond the update on the custodian position noted earlier, Jane had no further Staffing Team report.  While she had the floor, Jane suggested that the church might want to consider ways in which it could participate in an antique show on the square that Main Street Medina is in the early stages of planning for Sunday, June 24.  Might the church gain exposure from doing something with food or music for such an event?  Would we consider opening the building and making presentations about the church’s history?  Jane will watch for additional details.
Endowment: Jane reviewed plans for the February 12 Founders’ Day service.  The theme will be “The Patchwork of Our Lives,” emphasizing not only the Endowment Fund, but also our connectedness and getting to know one another better.  In lieu of a sermon, seven speakers will offer personal reflections.  Children will distribute carnations, cake will be served at coffee hour, and the quilt raffle will be promoted.  (The actual drawing will take place in March.)

Brief Team Reports (Purpose)
Evangelism: Don Canfield reported on an idea to have a team push decorated shopping carts in the Fourth of July parade to collect canned goods from parade watchers.  A church Neal served in Illinois had great fun and gathered a significant amount of food donations doing this.  This activity would be publicized in the newspapers and through other churches and would have the potential to grow into a visible, mission-oriented tradition.  We have an initial OK from the City of Medina.  Details to come.
Discipleship & Education: Mariah reported that D & E has recruited its next group of Team members and FISH teachers.   VBS planning is now underway.  The January 15 Game Night drew 40 participants.  A Confirmation Class trip to Temple Israel, followed by a lock-in back at our church the same evening, is set for January 27.  Plans are being set for this year’s youth group mission trips: middle school youth to the Hiram Farm in nearby Hiram, Ohio (June 1-3); senior high youth to Heifer International’s Overlook Farm in Rutland, Massachusetts (July 23-29).  Both will be service/learning experiences.  A March 11 Youth Sunday service will be followed by a dessert auction/basket raffle fundraiser.  Looking ahead, Mariah forsees some youth group  leadership transitions as some of the current advisors may step down at the end of this year.
Worship: Neal noted that a hymn sing is slated for the 8:15 and 10:30 services on February 5, Annual Meeting Sunday.  Ash Wednesday (February 22) will be at First Christian.  Our church will host the Maundy Thursday service on April 5.  A five-week Wednesday night Lenten series will begin February 29.  These Wednesday sessions, each beginning at 6:45, will feature dessert and a choice of three programs: “Families Set Free” (a series on the pressures of overachievement, sponsored by the D & E Team), “The Cow in the Parking Lot” (sponsored by the Reconciliation Team), and “The Jesus I Never Knew” (a Bible study).

Mission: Beth Hari and Pastor Neal reported that responses to Mission: 1 letters were received from Senator Sherrod Brown and Congressman Jim Renacci.        Beth shared with Council an idea for a possible new mission outreach upon which Jim Phillips, Dan Marty, Dave Weber, and she have been brainstorming.  Inspired by a recent occasion when Jim and Dan repaired the entrance steps at a home near the church, this group envisions our church becoming a force for good in the neighborhood, moving out into the surrounding blocks and helping those who need help with necessary household repairs and improvements.  This would be an expression of our church’s interest in hands-on mission, not just in Costa Rica or Biloxi or Cleveland, but right here.  It is thought that such an effort could  be funded with a Mission Team commitment of $2,000 to $3,000.  Guidelines would be developed regarding homeowner eligibility, legal and insurance concerns, and the like.  A project manager would be appointed.  Referrals could be sought through Community Services Center, Councilman (and church member) Bill Lamb, and perhaps other sources.  Beth noted that this idea will be discussed at the next Mission Team meeting and stressed, if the Team is receptive, that things will be taken one step at a time and that projects will start small.  Another thought emerging from this discussion is the idea of someday promoting a community garden.  Mark and other Council members expressed support for the further exploration of these ideas.    Beth also noted that the Mission Team released a $1,400 gift to the Zion UCC in Tremont whose food outreach our church members support by volunteering.  $500 will pay the debt Zion owes to an area foodbank, $500 will establish a credit at the same food bank, and $400 was given for other needs.  This help was gratefully received.  At Mark’s suggestion, Beth will write an article about this gift and our ongoing relationshiop with Zion for future inclusion in a Still Speaking newsletter.
Justice & Witness: At the end of its fledgling first year, Dave Weber expressed hope that J & W will develop a sense of direction and some Team goals in the new year.

Pastors’ Reports
Pastor Mariah: Mariah expressed an interest in trying to encourage the prayer requests that come from the congregation during services to be broader than concerns about those facing medical challenges.  While those are important, she would also like to see our thinking extend to other areas, such as prayers for particular ministries of the church.
Pastor Neal: Neal noted that the Costa Rica group will depart February 12 (nine from Medina, six from Chicago).  Neal added that this year’s group will be challenged by working on two houses in a more rural area.  Neal thanked the Mission Team for its financial support and clarified that the scholarship funds raised by the November 12 dinner and music event (approximately $1,200) will be used next year, rather than this year, due to timing.
Neal announced that a new group, for those with recently-emptied nests, spearheaded by Judy and John Gorsek, will meet for the first time on February 2.
Neal also noted that new members will be received on February 12.  Six attended the January 22 new member class; the second class is scheduled for February 5.

Important Dates
Sunday, February 5: Hymn Sing Service and Annual Meeting
Sunday, February 12: Founders’ Day, Costa Rica departure
Wednesday, February 22: Ash Wednesday Service @ FCC
Saturday, February 25: Leadership Team Retreat (WRMC)
Wednesday, February 29: Five-week Lenten series begins
Thursday, April 5: Maundy Thursday
Sunday, April 8: Easter
Friday, April 27 thru Sunday, April 29: Possible date for Men’s Retreat

Closing
Mariah led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, March 1, 2012

Respectfully recorded and submitted, 

Dan Hunter, Clerk

Congregational Council Meeting – October 27, 2011

Medina United Church of Christ, Congregational
October 27, 2011 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Don Canfield, Dave Edinger, Gil Brucken, Ron Greinke, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Beth Hari, Jane Langol, Nick North, Becky Weber, Dave Weber
Staff Present: Neal Sadler, Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Kelly Charnley

Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and opened with a personal reflection about his boss named Dallas who just retired and how a particular adversity in Dallas’ family has been transformed into a positve in an unexpected and inspiring way.  Joys and concerns of those present were shared.  Lacking a quorum (requiring seven Council members present), formal approval of the September 22, 2011 minutes was postponed.

Stewardship Update
For the benefit of Adam and Logan Usher, observing from the Confirmation class, Gil Brucken began his report with a brief explanation of the Stewardship process and the “three buckets of money” for operating, mission and capital expenditures.  Gil reported being encouraged with where we are just these few days past Stewardship Sunday: the total number of pledges turned in is down slightly compared to last year (which may be due in part to Stewardship Sunday falling earlier this year), but in spite of this, monies pledged are nearly on pace with last year.    Kelly Charnley added that of the 114 pledges turned in to date, 44 show an increase over last year,  58 are the same as last year, 10 are decreased from last year, and 2 are new pledges.  Given the economy, Gil added, these results are seen as good so far, and there is reasonable hope that this year’s pledged monies may top last year’s by approximately 5%.  Next, a follow-up letter will be sent to members who have not yet pledged, followed by personal phone calls.  The goal is to wrap up the campaign by Thanksgiving.
UCC Mission: 1 Update
Pastor Neal reviewed the various goals of the Mission: 1 hunger campaign being promoted by several Teams: Mission (food ingathering and cash drive), Discipleship & Education (cereal ingathering), Justice & Witness (letter-writing campaign), Hobby Horse (soup ingathering) and Evangelism (banner, publicity, “Each One Bring One”).  The worship services on November 6   will have a Mission: 1 emphasis.  Neal and Kelly expained how the office responds when approached directly by people in need.  Kelly reported that the office typically gets 1-2 calls      of this nature per day.

Holiday  Decorating
Jan Coleman will again oversee the Christmas tree decorating.  Volunteers will gather to do other decorating in the sanctuary on November 20 at 4 pm, with pizza afterwards.  The December 4 Community Design Committee Holiday Home Tour, which our church had agreed to be a part of, has been cancelled as too few homeowners had interest in participating.  The event may be scheduled at a later date.  On the plus side, Neal noted that the response from our members regarding this hoped-for event was very positive; many had come forward with offers to assist in a variety of ways.

Brief Team Reports (Resource/Additional)
Property & Grounds: Dave Edinger proclaimed that the generosity of the congregation came through to the tune of $50,000 and that “The Big Dig” project has been paid in full.  And, there is no water in the crawlspace!  The new grass has already been mowed, ahead of Halloween as hoped.  Fencing will be kept in place for a time because the ground is so wet and still settling in places.
Finance: Ron Greinke, piggybacking on Dave’s report, announced with great fanfare that there is now enough money in the capital improvement fund to buy a half of a window (!), but 2012 monies pledged for capital improvements will begin to replenish this fund.  Kelly reported that operating figures through 9/30/2011 are showing a surplus of approximately $3,500, a picture that is expected to improve even a bit further in October, pointing toward a possible positive year-end.  Neal added that significant savings have emerged in the staff health insurance area, between Mariah now being placed in a new category for staff under age 40 (approximately $6,000 savings), the federal rebate (approximately $5,000), and plan changes made last year with the staff taking on higher deductibles.  Kelly also noted that 2012 budget figures have been submitted by all teams except Property & Grounds and Staffing and that property insurance quotes have been sought from three carriers.
Staffing: Neal noted that year-end staff reviews are underway.
Hobby Horse Preschool: Mark anounced that the Preschool Team has prepared a draft of a bylaws document for itself.  Mark asked Dan Hunter to send this draft as an attachment to the October minutes so Council members can read it and be prepared to discuss and hopefully approve it at the November Council meeting.

Brief Team Reports (Purpose)
Worship: Neal reviewed the holiday schedule: Christmas Eve services at 6:00, 9:00 and 11:00 (like last year) and one 10:30 service only on December 25 and January 1.  The choir will present its special holiday music at 10:30 on December 4 and the children’s Christmas program will be presented at 10:30 on December 11.  A Hymn Sing is planned for Annual Meeting Sunday (February 5).
Discipleship & Education: Mariah reported that FISH is going well and that there are still some teacher openings.  The October 23 hayride ended up being held in Boyert’s barn.  40 boxes have been packed by elementary youth for Operation Christmas Child.  Additional boxes can be turned in up till November 20.  Elementary youth are also collecting pop tops, a fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House.  Other dates: Rake & Run, Nov 6; Confirmation Class tour at Community Services Center, Nov 10; tea for high school youth group mentors and middle school bowling outing, Nov 13; youth group hot chocolate and bake sale at Candlelight Walk, November 19 (Cathy Fafrak will also play the organ for this event); high school youth group service project at Cups Café, Nov 20.  Also, Cathy Fafrak and/or Elaine Brent plan to perform 2-3 Advent organ recitals this season; dates and times to be announced.
Evangelism: Don Canfield announced that the Evangelism Team has added Jen Cockrell to its roster, but will soon lose Amanda Honnert with her upcoming move.  The Team will review its accomplishments and unfinished business from 2011 and goals for 2012 at its next meeting.
Mission: Neal reported that the Mission Team has been busy with Mission: 1 initiatives and with trying to disburse funds left in its budget.  The Team voted to release funds for Special Ministries (assistance for those who approach the office with special needs as discussed earlier), to match the congregation’s total cash contribution to Mission: 1 (to be divided equally between Neighbors In Need and the UCC East Africa relief fund) with an equal contribution to three local food banks (divided among Medina Community Services Center, St. Paul’s Free Farmers Market, and the Medina United Methodist Food Pantry), and to to pay Operation Christmas Child shipping expenses.
Caring: Neal reported that the Caring Team has been busy.  Coffee hours have been covered through the fall but the Team will seek to fill open dates in the coming months.  Circle of Caring is organizing the delivery of crafts to older members.
Justice & Witness: Mariah reported that J & W has prepared four sample letters for the letter-writing component of Mission: 1.  The Team is also looking at the National Office’s “Justice Led” curriculum, a non-issue based program that connects justice to Christian Faith.  Neal added that Stewart Jones will be attending a TBI conference in February.

Pastors’ Reports
Pastor Mariah: Mariah announced the theme at the Gathering services during Advent will be “Waiting For God.”  Mariah also put in a plug for the preaching workshop she will lead on November 12 from 11:00 to 3:00 (includes lunch).  Finally, Mariah noted that she will be on vacation November 14-21.
Pastor Neal: Neal noted that he, Mariah, Karen Leidy, and possibly Crell Johns will attend the EOA Fall Meeting on October 29.  Neal observed that the “Managing Conflict” workshops, being lead by Gene Kraus, are going well, with two sessions remaining on November 3 & 10.  A men’s fellowship gathering with pizza and a speaker will be held on Friday, November 4 at Abbottino’s.  New members will be received on November 6.  The music program planned by Miki Saito and friends will be held on November 12 in the sanctuary.  A dinner that same evening will be put on by the Costa Rica mission group.  Free-will offerings at both the dinner and the music program will go toward a scholarship fund for future Costa Rica trips.  The next Costa Rica trip is on the calendar for this coming February 12-21.  11 to 12 are planning to make the trip (7 from here,    5-6 from Chicago), with a few more considering it.  November 18-19 is the EOA Church Vitality Workshop.  Neal will attend; possible attendees from the congregation include Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Don Canfield, and Crell Johns.  Neal also mentioned that the Time & Talent survey is still being reviewed; introduction of it has been postponed till January.
Neal asked if a leaders’ retreat should be put on this coming year, like last year’s gathering at Western Reserve Masonic Community (WRMC).  If so, a date and location must be picked and a speaker sought.  “Yes” is the apparent consensus.  February 11 (the Saturday after Annual Meeting) is the likely date; WRMC worked well last year and its availability for that date will be explored.  As Moderator Elect, Carl volunteered to assist with the planning of this event and suggested that he may be able to come up some activities for the retreat.  Neal, noting that last year’s program dealt largely with the nuts and bolts of the transition from the old to the new constitutional structure, expressed hope that this year’s program could focus more on visioning: sharing dreams of what this church could do or be.  Neal and Carl will further discuss retreat ideas ahead of the November Council meeting.
Discussion ensued as to ways to promote more cooperative, ecumenical activities among Medina churches (Neal sees encouraging signs of interest in recent months coming from some Medina Ministerial Association members), ways for our church to be more visible and take advantage of its location (Dave Edinger suggested continued exploration with Main Street Medina), and ways to promote greater interaction among our church’s various leadership Teams (Mariah cited Alive on the Square and Mission: 1 as events that have brought together multiple Teams).  Neal also suggested that it is not too early to begin thinking about the 200th anniversary of our church’s founding.  Worship services began in 1817 and the church was formally established in 1819.

Mariah led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, November 17, 2011

Respectfully recorded and submitted, 

Dan Hunter, Clerk

Council Minutes – September 22, 2011

September 22, 2011 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Jane Langol, Don Canfield, Dave Edinger, Beth Hari, Dave Weber, Ron Greinke, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Gil Brucken, Nick North, Becky Weber
Staff Present: Neal Sadler, Mariah Marlin-Warfield, Kelly Charnley, Vicki Marty
Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and opened with a devotional entitled “Changing Swords” (based on Isaiah 2:4), followed by a prayer.  Joys and concerns of those present were shared.  Dave Edinger made a motion calling for the approval of both the July 28 and August 28, 2011 Council minutes.  Beth Hari seconded.  Motion carried.

EOA Church Vitality Event
Pastor Neal shared an announcement about the EOA Church Vitality Roadshow to be held November 18-19 at Trinity UCC in Wooster.  Participation of a pastor and at least three laypersons is required.  Cost is $5 per person.  Mark and Carl expressed interest in attending.  Neal will solicit others.
UCC Mission: 1 Update
Beth reviewed Mission: 1 plans being formulated by the Mission Team.  A church goal has been set at $1,111, to be split 50/50 between NIN and East African Relief. The Discipleship & Education Team is setting a Sunday School goal of $111, to be announced by 11-year olds.  Donations of food items will also be sought.   Three local food banks have been queried to ascertain specific needs. Dave Weber noted that the Justice & Witness Team will endorse and promote the letter-writing part of the campaign.  Vicki Marty added that Hobby Horse will seek to gather 111 cans of soup.  Key dates:      Oct 9, campaign kick-off;  Oct 23, J & W announcement about letter-writing project; Oct 30, D & E announcement about Sunday School/youth campaign; Nov 6, final campaign plea; Nov 13, announcement of campaign results.  Buttons and bulletin inserts will be used throughout the campaign.  Neal suggested creating a banner highlighting campaign results; Don Canfield will take this idea to the Evangelism Team.  Pastor Mariah will check with Cindy Korecky and/or Chris Warfield to see if a link to the denomination’s Mission: 1 web page can be placed on our church’s website.
Custodial Update
Jane Langol updated Council on the plan formulated earlier this summer at the custodial needs meeting to explore hiring an on-campus 20-hour per week custodian.  A job description is being developed, using one created in 2007 as a model.  The Property & Grounds Team will provide updated job specs.  Input will be sought from staff, as well.  Jane (Staffing) and Dave Edinger (P & G) have met with one candidate so far, a custodial contractor who would dedicate one or two individuals to this position.  This contractor already furnishes custodial personnel to two other churches.  Jane has asked the Finance Team to earmark funds for this position as budgets are developed this fall.  Meanwhile, Mark’s Cleaning Service and Derrel Larsen will maintain their current schedules.
Stewardship
Filling in for Gil, Mark reported that the Fall Stewardship Campaign has begun.  An initial letter has been mailed out to all member households and Josh Olin delivered the first “Stewardship Moment” from the pulpit in moving fashion this past Sunday (September 18).  Upcoming pulpit talks will be delivered by Cheri Ingraham (Sept 25), Mike Black (Oct 2), Kent Daugherty (Oct 9), and Carl Skorepa (Oct 16).  Stewardship Sunday is October 23.
The consensus is to hold off on distributing a Time & Talents brochure till closer to Thanksgiving, so as not to distract from the focus of the Stewardship Campaign.
Mark is developing a letter highlighting the need for contributions to the capital improvement fund, to replenish reserves tapped for the recent drainage repair project (“The Big Dig”) and to build funds for future projects.
Dave Weber reminded Council that participation in the Stewardship Campaign (annually indicating one’s “Intended Level of Giving”) is a specific responsibility of active membership noted in our Constititution.
Brief Team Reports (Resource/Additional)
Hobby Horse Preschool: Vicki Marty reported that enrollment figures are looking good at 158, down just six from last year despite competition from a new preschool at St. Francis.  Vicki asked when the Hobby Horse sign can be put back in place, as it was removed for repainting while “The Big Dig” and subsequent lawn re-seeding were in progress.  Dave Edinger responded that the sign could be reinstalled at any time.  Vicki also explained how Hobby Horse recently came to “donate” some tables to the church: a supplier sent the wrong- sized tables in response to an order for four new tables made by Hobby Horse and then offered that the incorrectly-sized tables did not have to be returned.  Following up on a concern voiced at the August 28 Council meeting, Mark asked if Council should take steps to formally designate a liaison from Hobby Horse to Council.  Vicki noted that she is comfortable knowing that she or someone from the Preschool Team can attend and speak at Council meetings when needed.
Finance: Ron Greinke reported that the total cost of “The Big Dig” project stands at $51,200 to date.  After receiving specific donations for this project from 19 families, tapping future 2011 capital pledges from 42 families, and working with Kelly to re-allocate small amounts from some “dead end accounts” (funds left from past projects), the debt to our reserves now stands at approximately $9,450.  On the subject of funds for capital projects, Ron added that starting in 2013, a percentage for capital projects will be added into the automatic split applied to undesignated income (currently 80% operating and 20% for benevolence, with no share to capital projects).
Property & Grounds: Dave Edinger reported that the P & G Team is starting to work on 2012 budget figures.  As always, Dave noted, there are more needs than funds on the horizon.  Dave noted that a candidate has come forward for the volunteer supply officer position.  This will move forward once staff and P & G conduct orientation (reviewing supply lists and locations) with the candidate.

Brief Team Reports (Purpose)
Worship: Reporting for Nick North, Neal noted that Alive on the Square went smoothly and that fall worship services are in full swing with the choirs back in action. A fall sermon series “Growing in Christ,” based on Paul’s letter to the Philippians, is being featured at 8:15 and 10:30 while the current theme of the Gathering service is “Feasting on the Word.”  Neal also noted that the Worship Team will need to seek a replacement for Andy Honnert, who is soon to move out of the Medina area.
Evangelism: Don Canfield announced that new church brochures are being developed, using the talents of graphic design students at the Medina County Career Center.  Neal suggested that our Teams should be solicited for input on the brochure’s written content.  Neal added that we should work toward establishing design continuity in printed items, website, etc.  Don also announced that new member classes will be held October 9 and 23.  This will be the first time with the class format reduced from four to two sessions.   Finally, Don noted that the Evangelism Team will be seeking to replace Amanda Honnert due to her upcoming move, adding that the Team is now down to three members.
Justice & Witness: Dave Weber announced that J & W will meet this Sunday (September 25) to discuss Mission: 1 and other opportunities.  Mariah added that notes to corrections officers encouraged by the Chain-Breaking Faith group will be blessed this Sunday.
Discipleship & Education: Reporting for Becky Weber, Mariah noted that the Dr. Seuss-themed summer Sunday School series was well-received.  Mariah added that a few teachers and shepherds are still needed for the new Sunday School/FISH year.  Mariah noted that FISH did begin on September 18, as scheduled, but that the recognition/dedication of teachers was moved to September 25.
Caring: Neal reported for the Caring Team that this Saturday’s 50-year member luncheon has approximately 35 signed up.  Brief discussion ensued as to ways this event might be expanded to include more members, e.g., adding members over a certain age or counting membership time a member may have had at another church.

Pastors’ Reports
Pastor Neal: Neal noted that there are still some spaces left for the “Managing Conflict” workshop to be held October 6 & 20 and November 3 & 10.  (Note the new date for the last session.)   Neal annnounced that November 12 will be the date for the Music Night being planned by Miki Saito, Nick North and Jim Kiser.  A dinner that evening may possibly be put on by the Costa Rica group, to raise scholarship funds for future travelers on these trips.  Neal also noted that he will be on vacation October 13-20 (visiting daughter Debby in Georgia) and that the EOA Fall Annual Meeting is on the calendar for October 29.
Pastor Mariah: Mariah shared that all three youth groups are off to a good start, with the elementary group being especially large.  The high school group this year will gather once a month for a dinner meeting and once a month for an activity or fundraiser.  High school youth will be seeking adult mentors from the congregation this year.  An announcement will be made about this opportunity on October 9.  On October 2, all youth will participate in the CROP Walk (the two-mile version) with a meeting following.  Mariah also reported that confirmation is underway with eight boys and two girls comprising this year’s class.  The confirmands will assist with the 50-year member luncheon and will attend Team meetings this fall.  Stacie will be making announcements regarding Operation Christmas Child, with boxes to be packed on October 16.  On October 23, elementary youth will make an announcement about collecting pop can pull tabs.  October 23 is also the all-church hayride.  From 11:00 to 3:00 on November 12, Mariah will conduct a preaching workshop for interested lay persons.  This program includes lunch and must have a minimum of seven participants.  Mariah also brought forth the idea of of a fair where different groups in the church would have a chance to highlight their ministries and recruit interested members.  A program of this sort was last tried about ten years ago.   Carl suggested that Mardi Gras might be a good time to put on such an event.

Important Dates
Saturday, September 24: Fifty-Year Member Luncheon
Sunday, October 2: NIN Offering and CROP Walk
Sunday, October 9: Mission: 1 Kick-Off
Sunday, October 23: Stewardship Sunday and Hayride
Saturday, October 29: EOA Fall Annual Meeting (New Philadelphia)
Saturday, November 12: Lay Preaching Workshop and Music Night
Friday & Saturday, November 18-19: EOA Church Vitality Roadshow (Wooster)

Closing
Mariah led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, October 27, 2011

Respectfully recorded and submitted, 

Dan Hunter, Clerk

Council Meeting 8/28/2011

August 28, 2011 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Jane Langol, Nick North, Dave Edinger, Beth Hari, Dave Weber, Becky Weber, Ron Greinke, Gil Brucken, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Don Canfield
Staff Present: Neal Sadler, Kelly Charnley, Jim Kiser, Cindy Korecky, Vicki Marty
Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and thanked the Sadlers for hosting this afternoon’s gathering in their home.  In addition to the Council members noted above, several Team chairs were present.  For the opening, Pastor Neal read and shared a reflection on God’s Call to Abram in Genesis 12.  (We are blessed; we are to be a blessing.  How are the ministries of our church a blessing to others?)  No approval action was called for on the July 28, 2011 Council minutes.

Feedback on New Constitutional Structure
Mark led off a discussion of how we’re faring now that we’ve been operating under the new Constitutional structure for several months.  Mark noted that he has been challenged at times to avoid slipping back into the old Cabinet structure mindset.  Council needs to strive to avoid getting bogged down with details and ensure that Teams are feeling empowered.
Stewardship Liaison Gil Brucken has observed pockets of energy emanating from many of the new Teams and other groups within the church in recent months.
Mission Liaison Beth Hari cited difficulty, at times, in differentiating her role as liaison compared to being a member or leader of the Team.  It’s hard not to just jump in and do things directly, she noted.
Discipleship & Education Team Leader Kellie Johns expressed appreciation for the historical perspective on various tasks, traditions, and issues that Council, her Team’s liaison, and various Team members bring.
Worship Liaison Nick North has observed that Teams are feeling empowered and getting things done.
Gil asked if all the Teams are feeling that way.  “Yes” was the general consensus.  Teams are not often feeling the need to go to Council for approval.  Gil noted that the Gathering Team in particular has been operating quite independently and effectively.  Gathering Team Leader Dave Sinclair agreed.
Clerk Dan Hunter noted that fully staffing the Teams remains a challenge, similar to the challenges Boards and Committees faced under the old structure.
Justice & Witness Liaison Dave Weber stressed that communication is one of the keys to making the new structure work and encouraged all to be vigilant in this regard.
Hobby Horse Preschool Director Vicki Marty shared that Hobby Horse, without a liaison to Council, seems to feel less connected to the church than it did under the old organization.  Mark offered that consideration could be given to adding a liaison for Hobby Horse.  Dan recalled that some Teams without a liaison have made presentations to Council, e.g., Reconciliation and Endowment.   Mark suggested that a schedule could be made providing those Teams without Council representation a regular opportunity to share information with Council.
Stewardship Campaign
In the absence of Stewardship Team personnel, Gil reported meeting with Mark, Jane Langol, Chris Warfield, and Kelly Charnley to lay out plans for this fall’s Stewardship Campaign.  This group chose to adopt the official UCC  Stewardship theme this year (for the first time in several years): “Count Yourself Blessed.”  The campaign will be kicked off with a letter to members.  Starting September 18, Stewardship speakers will share 2-minute reflections on their connections to the church at all services.  One or more Messenger articles will profile families that have benefited from our church’s ministries.  Mark added that a flyer outlining the need for funds for capital projects is being developed in consultation with Bob Montgomery.  October 23 will be Stewardship Sunday and it is hoped that all wrap-up will be completed by Thanksgiving.  It is further hoped that next year’s campaign will be run by a fully-staffed Stewardship Team.
UCC Mission: 1 Initiative
Neal shared information on a special denomination-wide campaign focusing on hunger in the U.S. and worldwide planned for the eleven-day period from 11-1-11 to 11-11-11.  Suggested parts of the program, outlined in a handout distruted by Neal, include raising money for Neighbors in Need (goal above traditional NIN offering: $111,111 in this eleven-day period), collecting food items, and a letter-writing campaign to Congress, asking that U.S. foreign aid be protected and reformed “to make it more effective in reducing hunger and poverty” (Mission: 1 Campaign Manual).  Neal stressed that churches are encouraged to think of creative ways of participating in this campaign.  Beth will order a campaign kit and see that the Mission Team discusses this at its next meeting.  Jane noted, if a food ingathering is planned, that suppliers such as Buehlers and Giant Eagle should be approached for donations.  Jane added that if promotional items like T-shirts are desired, these might be be donated or offered at very low cost by a willing supplier.  Finally, Jane noted that the church should seek press coverage for a campaign of this sort and suggested that the Medina Post might be approachable and receptive.  Dave Edinger stressed that any food ingathering should be preceded by inquiries as to what our local food banks really need.  Dave added that cash is always a need, we can be sure.
Calandar Overview (by Team)
Reconciliation: Gene Kraus reminded all that the single-session “Discover Your Reconciliation Style” workshop will be repeated on September 15 and that a four-session class entitled “Managing Conflict” will take place on Thursday evenings this fall (October 6 & 20, November 3 & 17).
Discipleship & Education: Kellie Johns and Becky Weber highlighted the following upcoming events: Rally Day (beginning of Sunday School and Youth Groups), September 18; All Church Hayride, October 23; Women’s Retreat (probable), November 5 or 12; Advent Family Fun Night, November 30; Movie Night (to include children from Let’s Make A Difference), December 16.  Kellie also noted that the Confirmation Class Kick-Off Meeting, led by Mariah and Stacie, is taking place this afternoon.
Worship: Nick North and Jim Kiser announced the following dates: Music Program planned by Miki Saito, November 5 or 12 (the 12th being the recommended date); Christmas Choir Program,   December 4; possible Hymn Sing Service on Annual Meeting Sunday, February 5; Music Appreciation, May 13 (probable).
Evangelism: Amanda Honnert noted that new member classes are upcoming in October.  Looking further ahead, she added that the serving of free popcorn and lemonade will be repeated next Memorial Day.  Consideration is also being given as to whether the church should participate in some way in the Medina International Festival (and other events on the square, e.g., the  Farmers’ Market) in 2012.  Dave Edinger suggested the church should consider joining Main Street Medina, noting that we have a stake in the vitality of the square.  A Main Street Medina representative could be invited to speak at a church gathering, Dave added.
Mission: Beth Hari announced that the Empty Bowls fundraiser event will take place April 21 in Fellowship Hall.  Dave Weber added that another mission trip to Biloxi is being planned for the first week of April.
Caring: Barb Kiser announced that the 50-Year Member Luncheon is September 24.  Beyond that, the Caring Team stands by ready to help as needed.
Justice & Witness: Dave Weber noted that J & W may be involved in some aspects of the Mission: 1 Campaign.  Neal added that the Chain-Breaking Faith group is encouraging letters to jail employees this fall.  In a similar vein, Nick suggested that members of our congregation may want to participate in the Red Mass, a service honoring first responders and criminal justice workers held in late September at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Finance: Pete Metzloff advised that Teams will be asked to submit budgets in the fall.
Endowment: Jane Langol noted that Founders’ Day is Sunday, February 12.
Other: Neal added that Mariah is planning a workshop for those interested in further developing their lay preaching skills on November 12 and that the Men’s Retreat  is set for April 27-29 at Templed Hills.  Carl Skorepa stressed the importance throughout the year for all Teams to communicate  meeting and event dates with the office so the calendar and Messenger can be complete and up-to-date .
“The Big Dig” and Resulting Landscaping Needs
Mark thanked the Property & Grounds Team members for all their hard work on the drainage repair project and asked about the possibility of planning an “all-church” workday in September or October to restore the landscaping in its aftermath.  Dave Edinger reported that P & G has already decided to hire a contractor to simply plant grass in most of the disturbed areas, with the hope it will be in by Halloween.  The thinking is that some of the same areas will be be disturbed again when the windows are replaced in the Fellowship Hall wing, hopefully next year.  A prepared landscaping plan will be executed after the completion of the window project, using professionals and/or church volunteers.
Final Thoughts
Mark expressed thanks to Cindy Korecky, whose family connection brought the Homeland Singers to our church for the August 7 program.  Neal reminded Teams to begin recruiting individuals to fill Team roster vacancies that will be created by term expiration in February.  Cindy will send out updated rosters so term expiration can be reviewed (or added, where necessary) to help all think ahead on this.
Important Dates
Sunday, September 11: Alive On The Square & community 9/11 observance
Sunday, September 18: Rally Day, Sunday School begins
Saturday, September 24: Fifty-Year Member Luncheon
Sunday, October 23: Stewardship Sunday

Closing
Neal led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.  Afterwards, most Council members and Team leaders stayed and many spouses joined our gathering for a potluck picnic supper.   Thanks to Dale Korecky for grilling and, again, to Neal and Carolyn for their generous hospitality.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, September 22, 2011

Meeting 7/28/2011

July 28, 2011 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Carl Skorepa, Jane Langol, Nick North, Dave Edinger, Ron Greinke, Don Canfield, Gil Brucken, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Beth Hari, Dave Weber, Becky Weber
Staff Present: Neal Sadler, Kelly Charnley
Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and opened with an inspirational reading about the word Can’t, followed by a prayer.  Since the May 26, 2011 minutes were not approved because a quorum was lacking at the June Council meeting, Mark asked for a motion to approve both the May 26 and June 23, 2011 Council minutes.  After the updates and clarifications to the June 23 minutes shown immediately below were noted, Nick North made a motion to approve both the May and June minutes; Gil Brucken seconded.  Motion carried.  Joys and concerns of those present were shared.

Updates and Clarifications to June 23, 2011 Council Minutes
Update: Karen Leidy has been reimbursed the $600 for expenses related to her recent licensure as an accredited lay minister.  Instead of this cost being underwritten by the Worship, Mission and Evangelism Teams as was suggestd at the June Council meeting, the cost was covered by funds from the Worship Team budget and by funds from a line item in the Staff budget.
Update: Kelly Charnley reported that the $500 honorarium to be paid to the Homeland Singers for the August 7 concert has been covered, the cost split evenly between Memorial Gifts and the Music budget.  A free-will offering will still be taken that day to go toward the cost of the picnic lunch.
Clarification: Gil noted, contrary to the June minutes, that he is not abandoning the Stewardship Team.  The June announcement should have been that his schedule prevents him from leading the Stewardship effort, but he still intends to participate and assist as time permits.  Gil will continue to serve on Council as Stewardship Team liaison.
Report on Review of Custodial Concerns
Mark reported on last week’s special meeting at which custodial concerns were aired.  Recent history was reviewed and pros and cons of our current approach (Mark’s Cleaning Service with Derrel Larsen providing part-time assistance) vs. having a staff custodian were examined.
Near-term recommendations coming out of last week’s meeting: change Mark’s Cleaning Service from current Tuesday & Friday to Sunday night & Friday; designate a volunteer supply clerk to inventory and purchase supplies and see that they are stored in accessible locations (a notice for this position will run in the Messenger); continue to make use of Derrel Larsen’s services for some tasks.
Longer-term recommendations: work toward having a staff custodian present from 8 a.m. till noon weekdays.  This could be one individual or a combination of part-timers, which could include Derrel.  It was noted that with recent layoffs in Medina City Schools that skilled custodians may be available and looking for work.  In addition to working on cleaning tasks on a more regular schedule, a custodian present in the building could respond to the various inspectors, meter readers, etc. who come by, relieving other staff of these interruptions.  The efforts of our custodian(s) could be supplemented by Mark’s Cleaning Service as needed (and, it is hoped, less often over time).  Youth Service Days like the one conducted this July (youth undertaking projects around the church building and grounds) will be repeated in the future.   All-Church Cleaning Days will be planned, perhaps for this coming November (before Christmas decorations go up) and March.  For these All-Church Cleaning Days, the Property & Grounds Team could identify the jobs to be done, Time & Talent could recruit volunteers (till that Team is manned, this would be Council’s job), and perhaps a lunch could be planned for the volunteers.
Endowment Initiatives
Jane Langol, joined by Endowment Team member Ginny Hall, reviewed the status of the Endowment Fund (grown to approximately $153,000 since its 1995 inception) and outlined a planned giving campaign that is being formulated.  CPA Bert Humpal is guiding this project, which will encourage current gifts and final planning-type gifts.  This will be a face-to-face approach, likely preceded by a mailing.  Literature has been reviewed from churches in Reynoldsburg and elsewhere.  It was stressed that an Endowment campaign is not intended to compete in any way with the  Stewardship campaign.  The Endowment Team meets again in October.  Jane added that the Endowment Team’s photo notecard sale has netted $85 to date.
Continued Team Staffing Challenges
As noted in preceding months, the Time & Talent Team remains unstaffed and, except for Gil’s involvement as Council Liaison and helper as noted above, the Stewardship Team remains unmanned as well.  Many phone calls have been made, in addition to pleas in the Messenger and from the pulpit.  Neal suggested that he will join with Mark, Carl, and Val Perkins to review lists and come up with names.
Stewardship Campaign
Gil noted that preliminary steps in the fall Stewardship campaign usually begin soon after Alive on the Square (this year, September 11).  Gil will set up a planning meeting; Mark will attend.  The tentative plan would be similar to the approach taken in recent years: mailings and a series of testimonials during worship services in which members share their connection to the church, e.g., “I’m getting something out of this; that’s why I give.”
August 7 Homeland Singers Event
Plans are in good shape.  Caring Team is coordinating the food.  Cindy’s husband will grill.  Evangelism Team will set up.  Property & Grounds will schedule work on the drainage project so as not to interfere with this event.  Flyers have been made and distributed.  (More are available in the office.)
Leadership Picnic
This planning meeting/picnic gathering will take place Sunday, August 28 at the Sadler home.  Meeting 4:00 to 5:30; supper to begin around 5:30.   Sadlers will provide meat and beverages; other are asked to bring a dish to share.  Council members, Team chairs, and all staff will be invited; spouses will be invited to join in for the meal.  Thanks to Neal and Carolyn for hosting.
Alive on the Square
Neal saluted Carl for having done most of the work to get this September 11 event organized.  Teams (Caring, Worship, Discipleship & Education, Music) are handling various tasks.  John Chiller will set up the sound system.  The theme of this year’s joint worship service with Second Baptist will be “Ministries of Reconciliation/Ambassadors for Christ.”  It has come to our attention that some members of St. Paul’s Episcopal have expressed interest in participating.  They are certainly welcome and this will be communicated.  First Christian has always been invited, too, but has not participated in recent years.
Brief Resource Team Reports
Finance: Kelly shared the Operating Budget report thru June, noting that things are on track.  In addition, Kelly reported that she has been following up to make sure the earlier-applied-for staff medical insurance tax credit (approximately $5,500 expected) will be received.  Kelly also shared Hobby Horse Preschool’s year-end report.  Hobby Horse finished the year with a $3,403 profit.  A portion of the profit has been added to Hobby Horse’s reserve, bringing the reserve to approximately $26,000 (the reserve goal being $30,000).  The $1,509 remainder of the Hobby Horse year-end profit has been transferred to the church’s capital project fund.  Ron Greinke noted that the Finance Team did not meet this past month.
Stewardship: Gil reported that Stewardship did not meet, but shared preliminary research on  electronic message boards that Council had discussed earlier in the year.  A system with three monitors (sanctuary, East Room, Fellowship Hall) could cost from $13,000 to $15,000.  Gil added that this could be phase-able, e.g., a one-monitor set-up might cost $7,000.  This is simply FYI at this point.
Property & Grounds: Dave Edinger reported that the big project for August is the drainage repair.  Things have been scheduled to minimize parking lot disruption, with the work in that area slated to start after the August 7 Homeland Singers event and to be completed before the start of the fall Hobby Horse term.  Gil asked if this work will solve the problem or be a phased approach.  Dave responded that the problem should be substantially solved.  In the course of this project, Dave added that a few trees will need to be removed, to be given away, if possible, or discarded.  Looking at other areas, Dave noted that a boiler specialist will be doing maintenance during shut-down before fall, an annual expense of $6,000 to $8,000, and that some roof repairs will be undertaken as the weather cools.  Regarding the kitchen, Dave reported that the problem that made a natural gas odor present has been corrected and that a kitchen vent replacement will now prevent cold air from coming in.
Time & Talent: Speaking up for what the church by-laws define as a Time & Talent Team responsibility, Kelly noted that the church should consider conducting a membership review, the last one being undertaken in 2007.  Kelly shared a list she prepared of members who should be reviewed and a letter used in the 2007 review.  Neal will review and edit the list.  Jane asked Neal if he routinely contacts non-attendees.  Neal said he generally does not, unless tipped off to do so.
Staffing: Jane made a motion that Council approve Stuart Root being added to the Staffing Team roster.  Dave seconded.  Council approved.

Brief Purpose Team Reports
Evangelism: Don Canfield noted that the idea of condensing new member classes from four sessions to two is being further reviewed, with additional material being covered by hand-outs.  On this same subject, it has been noted that the Spiritual Gifts Assessment questionnaire given to new members is too long.  This may be an issue for the Time & Talents Team to review at some future point.
Worship: Nick North noted that Jim Kiser, who has been pro tem chair of the Worship Team, feels he should not be chair, since he is also a staff person.  The Worship Team scribe position, heretofore held by Cathy Fafrak, is now being passed around for the same reason.  Jane noted that the July 10 hymn sing service, organized by Nick and Jim, was outstanding.  Dave agreed, adding that other hymn sings should be held at times of the year when attendance is greater.  Nick suggested that a Christmas or Easter-themed hymn sing could be planned.  On a different subject, Nick noted that it has been ncie to see lay persons signing up to help with the 8:15 service when needed.

Pastors’ Reports
Pastor Neal: Pastor Neal reported on the Costa Rica mission trip, noting that the group was able to bond with the community there and get closer to the culture, which he hopes we’ll be able to build upon over time.  This year’s group was able to economize on lodging by dividing between a private home and a youth hostel; the savings compared to expected hotel costs was given to the family whose home the group worked on for further finishing and furnishings.  Neal feels that these trips have a profound effect on those who go.  Neal added that scheduling might be easier for our parishioners if the trip is moved from summer to late winter or early spring; this idea will be further explored.  Neal announced that he will be out of the office August 14-22, participating in a continuing education event in Colorado.  Neal also announced that our Reconciliation Team is offering additional opportunities this fall.  The one-day workshop “Discovering Your Conflict Style” will be repeated on September 15.  A four-session conflict management class will be offered on Thursday evenings, October 6 & 20 and November 3 & 17.

Important Dates
Sunday, August 28: Leadership Picnic at Sadlers
Sunday, September 11: Alive On The Square & community 9/11 observance
Sunday, September 18: Rally Day, Sunday School begins
Thursday, September 22: Next regular Council meeting
Saturday, September 24: Fifty-Year Member Luncheon

Closing
Neal led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.
Next Council meeting: Sunday, August 28, 2011 (Planning Meeting/Picnic at Sadlers)

Respectfully recorded and submitted, 

Dan Hunter, Clerk

Council Minutes – 5/26/2011

Medina United Church of Christ, Congregational
May 26, 2011 Congregational Council Meeting Minutes
We are called to live our Christian faith daily, loving God, growing spiritually and serving others.
Matthew 22:36-39
Council Members Present: Mark Woodling, Jane Langol, Carl Skorepa, Don Canfield, Nick North, Beth Hari, Becky Weber, Dave Weber, Gil Brucken, Ron Greinke, Dan Hunter (ex-officio)
Council Members Absent: Dave Edinger
Staff Present: Mariah Marlin-Warfield
Call To Order & Opening
Moderator Mark Woodling called the meeting to order and opened the meeting with prayer, a reading of Hebrews 12:1-3, and a short inspirational essay about keeping one’s eye on the hole in the golf game of life.  Beth Hari moved that the April 28, 2011 Council minutes be approved as written.  Jane Langol seconded.  Joys and concerns of those present were shared.

Capital Project Strategy
Mark and Gil Brucken led a discussion prompted by a recent request made by Building & Grounds to the Stewardship Team for help with fundraising for capital projects.  Approximately $100,000 is needed for near-term projects that include solving the crawlspace water problem and tower repairs.  Fundraising approaches could range from a series of mini-campaigns (like the church has conducted in recent years for parking lot replacement and Fellowship Hall repairs) to a larger campaign involving multi-year pledges and aiming toward a goal in the neighborhood of $350,000.  This approach would enable the church to tackle a longer prioritized list of projects already identified by Building & Grounds, some of which might be less expensive to address sooner than later.  The church has not staged a large campaign since the 1970s.  As was noted by Dave Edinger at last month’s Council meeting,  Gil again acknowledged the church’s general aversion to borrowing, but explained that with a multi-year campaign, projects can be begun with money paid in the first year and the church could then borrow against funds pledged in the subsequent years of the campaign, enabling further work to proceed.  Opinions varied as to whether banks like or dislike loaning money to churches.  Dave Weber suggested that we seek guidance from the National, Ohio Conference or Association offices.  Jane Langol expressed a preference for the short-term approach, involving a series of targeted, well-articulated campaigns that are within the financial grasp of the congregation.  Carl Skorepa asked if we should think bigger, recalling the multi-million dollar strategic model developed several years ago.  Pastor Mariah and Don Canfield spoke in favor of a blended approach, something between a one-goal campaign and large multi-year campaign.  It was noted that pledge cards in recent years have offered members the option to designate pledged money for capital projects in addition to the traditional operating and benevolence categories.  (Unspecified funds are still allocated 80% for operating , 20% for benevolence and 0% for capital projects.)  It was reported that 41 pledges now include gifts to the capital improvement fund and suggested that this option should be more heavily promoted in the regular annual stewardship pledge campaigns.  Bringing the discussion back to immediate needs, Ron Greinke noted that Bruce Bauer from Building & Grounds has recently stated that the problem of water in the crawlspace really needs to be addressed “right now.”  Jane made a motion, seconded by Becky Weber, that Council make a recommendation to Building & Grounds that they move ahead with work toward solving the crawlspace water problem using existing capital funds.  The cost of the project, approximately $26,000 will use nearly all funds designated for capital improvements currently in-hand, but the problem is deemed urgent and the seasonal window is here.  Motion passed unanimously.  Discussion on capital project fundraising will be ongoing.  Building & Grounds will be encouraged to share its list of coming projects and costs.  Other Stewardship Team concerns: Gil is still “a man without a committee.”  Steve Anderson and Debi Peterson have recently been approached about serving on Stewardship and have declined.  Mark will make pulpit announcements to encourage prospective Stewardship and Time & Talent Team members.   Jane also noted, excepting the band concert ice cream social and mission trip auctions, that we are a church with no fundraisers.
Communications
Dave Weber is temporarily serving as point person in our campaign to improve communications.  Dave recently trained with Chris Warfield to learn how to make changes to the website.  A specific tab for Leadership Team Updates has been added to the homepage.  Dave shared sample “condensed” Team minutes or notes of the sort that will be posted under this tab.  These samples should be shared with all Team leaders and scribes; Teams can decide who will handle the writing of these condensed postings.  The hope is that these efforts will improve communications between the Teams and the larger congregation and, ultimately, with the outside community.  Mark added that Teams still need to keep detailed meeting minutes and that these should always be copied to Cindy in the office.  Chris was able to bring us back from a recent website crash and, in doing so, made the suggestion, in consultation with Keith Hagans, that our server be moved to a permanent location at an estimated cost of $5 per month.  The Evangelism Team budget will cover this expense.  Dan Hunter suggested that we explore a way to measure traffic on the church website.  Dave also noted that an effort is being made to monitor bulletin space, to see that blank pages are used and that items repeated too often are removed when appropriate.   The idea of an electronic bulletin board is still being explored.  Toward the goal of improving communications between Teams as we look ahead toward the new church year, Dave announced that a Leadership Picnic has been proposed for late August (tentatively the 28th) at Neal and Carolyn’s.  Council members and Team chairs would be invited to enjoy food & fellowship and to share visions for the coming year.
Brief Resource Team Reports
Finance: Ron Greinke reported that Kelly Charnley and Pete Metzloff have consolidated the church’s banking from two banks down to one (phasing out Wells Fargo, continuing with FirstMerit).  In doing so, annual fees were negotiated from $1,100 to $400.  Ron also noted that the operating budget, in spite of the current $5,046 deficit, is on target relative to the budget through April 30.
Stewardship: Gil asked for prayers that new Stewardship Team members will come forward.
Time & Talent: Carl voiced a similar hope on behalf of the unmanned Time & Talents Team.

Brief Purpose Team Reports
Evangelism: Don Canfield reported that the Evangelism Team will be serving free lemonade and popcorn in the churchyard at the Memorial Day parade as a means to promote the church.  Helpers will gather at 9:00.
Mission: Beth Hari noted that the Mission Team will work on disaster kits this summer.  She added that the Team will suspend regular meetings in the summer months.
Justice & Witness: Dave Weber reported that the Justice & Witness Team is defining its mission as one of education and the promotion of discussion.  For example, a panel on Senate Bill 5 may be planned for October.  The Team will generally try to avoid dividing the congregation by endorsing a particular view, but will seek to deepen the congregation’s understanding of highlighted issues.
Discipleship & Education: Becky Weber noted that Confirmation Sunday will be reviewed with an eye toward increasing participation of the congregation at large.  Vacation Bible School is set to kick off on June 13.  The Union Square/Let’s Make A Difference VBS runs the following week at Mellert Park, with our church taking responsibility for programming and snacks on June 21.  The senior high mission trip is set for July 24-30.
Worship: Nick North reported that lay leaders will cover the 8:15 service on infrequent occasions when both Neal and Mariah have conflicts.  Nick and Arnold Ingraham will provide this back-up initially.  Andy Honnert has taken over leadership of the JMM worship service at the County Home, with Alice Metzloff providing music.  Attendance for this program has gone from 3-4 to 14-15 at each service.    Nick also announced that he is working with Miki Saito to develop a musical fundraiser for this fall.

Additional Team Reports
Endowment: Jane Langol announced that the Endowment Team will be selling notecards featuring photographs of our church’s stained glass windows.  The objective of this project, more than raising money, is raising awareness about the Endowment Fund.

Pastors’ Reports
Pastor Mariah: Pastor Mariah thanked Mark and Beth for attending the May 1 afternoon Confirmation service and reiterated that the Confirmation service will be reviewed to encourage greater attendance.  Medina High School’s Baccalaureate service is June 2.  Mariah is one of the coordinators of this event and three of our congregation’s graduating seniors are participating.  The middle school youth mission trip to Cincinnati was a success.  A report on the trip will be presented at the 9:00 and 10:30 services on June 5.  With the high school mission trip to Philadelphia coming up in July, two more fundraisers are planned: a car wash (date TBA) and a Summer Service Day (July 10) where youth will solicit donations for tasks performed around the church’s building and grounds.  Lastly, Mariah announced that Karen Leidy completed her licensure interview today and is now officially licensed.  In celebration of this achievement, Karen will be preaching at the 8:15 and 10:30 services on Partners in Ministry Sunday, June 5.
Pastor Neal: Mark delivered this report for vacationing Pastor Neal.  On Sunday, August 7, our church will host the Homeland Singers.  This is the same Sunday that senior high youth will share reflections on their mission trip.  There will likely be one unified service that day with the Homeland Singers doing a short performance during the service, a picnic lunch being served at 11:00 in the churchyard (with Cindy Korecky’s husband and others grilling), and then a full program performed by the Homeland Singers at noon.  A free will offering will be taken to cover the food and the music.  Neal suggests that a minumum $500 honorarium should be given to the musical group.  If the offering is inadequate to cover this $500, a source of additional funds should be ready.  The music budget was suggested; Jane also suggested that memorial gifts could be approached for this purpose.  Neal’s report also provided additional information on the November music event being planned by Miki Saito, mentioned earlier by Nick.  Tentative dates are November 5 or 12.   A dinner may be part of the evening, perhaps a more casual version of Music Under the Stars from a few years back.  Neal noted that Chef Eric Whyard, who led the Gourmet Club that prepared the meal for that event, is no longer in Medina.  Beth suggested that she and Lynn Leckie might be able to help coordinate the food for such an event.  Neal’s report also suggested that this event could possibly be an Empty Bowls fundraiser,  a program the Mission Team has expressed interest in putting on.  Beth commented that an Empty Bowls program likely requires more lead time and that the Team may consider doing Empty Bowls in April 2012.  Other quick items from Neal’s report: Partners in Ministry Sunday (June 5) will include Leila Jindry and Barb Hubal’s participation in the 9:00 service; a staff planning meeting is set for June 7 (preliminary calendar prep for the coming program year); new members will be received on June 12 at all three services; a coordinator for the June 24 band concert ice cream social is still needed; Costa Rica plans continue (9 are committed); an August 13 Cleveland Indians outing is being planned by the Men’s Group; a Prayer Shawl Blessing is planned for August 14 (Mary Ann Blosser and others); plans are underway for the 50-year member luncheon in September (Syd Benson, Beth Hari).

Important Dates
Sunday, June 5: Partners in Ministry Sunday
Friday, June 10: Ohio Conference Annual Meeting begins
Saturday, June 11: Reconciliation Team Event
Saturday, June 11: Amish Dinner Outing
Sunday, June 12: Pentecost/New members join/Strengthen The Church offering
Monday, June 13: VBS begins
Sunday, June 19: Father’s Day/VBS Sunday
Monday, June 20: Costa Rica departure
Friday, June 24: Band concert ice cream social
Sunday, July 24: Senior High misssion trip departure
Sunday, August 7: Homeland Singers (unified service, picnic lunch)
Sunday, August 28: Leadership Picnic (tentative)
Sunday, September 11: Alive On The Square & community 9/11 observance

Other Comments
With all the recent weather disasters, Carl asked what if a disaster hit Medina?  How could we help?  How could our building space be used?  How could our response be coordinated with other churches?  Conversations with the Medina County Emergency Management Agency and the Red Cross might be worthwhile.  Carl and Mark will do some exploration on this subject.
Closing
Carl led the Council in closing prayer and Mark adjourned the meeting.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, June 23, 2011

Respectfully recorded and submitted, 

Dan Hunter, Clerk