Leadership Team Updates

Annual Congregational Meeting – Feb. 5, 2012

The 193rd Annual Meeting
United Church of Christ, Congregational
Medina, Ohio
Sunday, February 5, 2012 11:30 am

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

Moderator Mark Woodling called to order the 193rd Annual Meeting of the United Church of Christ, Congregational, Medina, Ohio.  With 96 voting members in attendance, a quorum was present to conduct business.  The order of the day began with the Invocation delivered by Pastor Neal Sadler.

The Minutes from the February 2011 Annual Meeting were offered for review.  There being no comments or corrections, a motion was made by Stewart Jones, seconded by Stuart Root, to approve.  Motion carried and minutes will be filed.

Review of Staff and Leadership Team Reports
In the interest of brevity, reports from staff and Leadership Teams were clustered for review as follows:
Moderator, Church Clerk, Senior Pastor, Youth & Family Life Pastor (including Youth Fund financial reports), Director of Discipleship & Education, Director of Music, Hobby Horse Preschool.  No comments or questions.
Purpose Focused Leadership Teams: Worship Team Report (plus Joyous Message Ministry Report), Evangelism Team Report, Caring Team Report (plus Circle of Caring, Esther Circle, and Craftmakers Group Reports), Discipleship & Education Team Report (plus Library Team Report), Mission Team Report.
Mark Woodling clarified that the absence in the Annual Report of a report from the Justice & Witness Team is not an oversight.  No report was submitted by the J & W Team, with only small organizational steps having been made here in its first year of existence.
Barb Hubal noted that no Gathering Team Report is included in the Annual Report.  Mark suggested that this will be addressed next year.
Resource Focused Leadership Teams: Treasurer Report, Finance Team Report, Property & Grounds Team Report, Staffing Team Report, Stewardship Team Report.  No comments or questions.
Additional Leadership Teams: Reconciliation Team Report, Endowment Team Report, Memorial Gifts Team Report.  No comments or questions.
Attention was also drawn to the Annual Report of the Ushers in the Supplement to the 2011 Annual Report.

Review and Approval of Proposed 2012 Budgets
Members present were directed to the proposed Mission Budget for 2012 on page 44 of the 2011 Annual Report.  No questions were raised on the Mission Budget.

The Operating Budget for 2012 appearing in the Supplement to the 2011 Annual Report was reviewed with the following clarifications made and questions raised:
Treasurer Ron Greinke noted that total expenses budgeted for 2012 are 1% lower than total expenses budgeted for 2011.
Ron pointed out that the new arrangement with the part-time staff custodial team causes a shift in budget categories with Property & Grounds expenses reduced by approximately $9,000 and Staffing expenses increased by a similar amount, as the expense for the new custodians falls under staffing, whereas last year’s expense for service provided by contractor Mark’s Cleaning Service was a Property & Grounds expense.
Ron highlighted that the line for Utilities in the 2012 budget is down approximately $5,000.
On the negative side, Ron noted that pledged income for 2012 as of this date is down approximately $24,000.  On the plus side, he noted that the church generally spends about 6% under budget (about $30,000 under budget in 2011).  The church also has reserve funds that can be used, if necessary, to help close this gap.  Our cash reserve currently stands at 19% of the operating budget total.  Ron reviewed the church’s cash reserve guidelines as follows: the goal is 15%, not to exceed 20% or go below 10%.  While the proposed 2012 budget does contain a faith component, it should not be seen as an unrealistic stretch.
Mark Woodling noted that the Congregational Council, in a special poll completed on February 3, did approve the proposed budget by a 10-0 vote.
Finance Team Leader Pete Metzloff added reassurance that income and expenditures are reviewed monthly.  The Finance Team will raise concerns and suggest adjustsments, should the need arise.
Sam Lindsley asked how it happens that utility costs are decreasing.  Ron noted that the new insulation in Fellowship Hall has helped in this area (with thanks to the Property & Grounds Team for its efforts on this project), coupled with lower gas prices and the milder weather.  Dave Weber added that the Property & Grounds Team is now engaged in a study with First Energy with the aim toward further reducing electricity costs.  Dave thanked the P & G Team, the Finance Team, the Treasurer, and the Stewardship Team for all their faithful and diligent efforts as stewards of our church’s building and finances.
Bill Neal asked why our guidelines discourage reserves from going above 20%.  Ron explained that as a nonprofit and as a church, our goal is not to amass cash, but to support missions and programs.  That said, modest reserves do help the church weather income and expense fluctuations.

Barb Hubal made a motion that the proposed budgets be declared the Mission and Operating Budgets for 2012.  Shirley Nowak seconded.  Motion carried.

Other Business
The Roster of Leadership Teams, appearing in the Supplement to the 2011 Annual Report, was reviewed.
It was noted that Gil Brucken, last year serving as Council Liaison for the Stewardship Team, in 2012 will serve as Council Liaison for the Worship Team.
Mark Woodling highlighted other significant Leadership Team vacancies.  A new Clerk is needed; also needed are individuals to fill openings on the Stewardship, Caring (where a Council Liaison is needed), and Worship Teams (with a particular need on the Worship Team for a Gathering service representative).  The Time & Talent Team went unmanned all last year and its roster remains empty.  Individuals will hopefully come forward in 2012 to activate that Team.
Ken Hubal asked who one should see to learn about a particular Team or to volunteer.  Mark suggested that members could contact him, Carl Skorepa, Pastor Neal or Pastor Mariah.

Mark asked for a motion to approve the Leadership Rosters as presented, with a notation adding Gil Brucken as Worship Team Council Liaison.  Deb Waldron so moved; Matt Yates seconded.  Motion carried.  The installation of new and continuing Team Leaders was led by Pastor Neal.  The congregation acknowledged all the leaders with applause.

Pastoral Comments—Pastor Neal Sadler
Pastor Neal stated that it’s a joy to serve as pastor of this unique and diverse church.  With diversity comes challenges, a fact recognized even way back in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians.  It is our reliance on God’s spirit, our dedication to service, and our shared worship that makes us one.
Pastor Neal highlighted the upcoming Leadership Team Retreat (February 25), inviting those who will be participating to come prepared to explore these questions: What is the compelling vision that joins us as a congregation?  How do we share the Good News?

Outgoing Moderator comments—Mark Woodling
Mark thanked the congregation for its kindness and support.  Specifically, he expressed gratitude to Pastor Neal, Pastor Mariah, Cindy Korecky, and Kelly Charnley for their guidance and patience throughout the past year.  Mark wished that he could take time to hold up many programs and individuals for recognition.  That being impossible, he did cite the following: Syd and Pete Benson for their work with the Circle of Caring, Nick North for his work with the Joyous Message Ministry, Dave Sinclair for his leadership of the Gathering Team, and Jane Langol for her dedicated service the past three years as Moderator Elect, Moderator, and Immediate Past Moderator.
On behalf of the congregation, Gil Brucken spoke words of thanks to Mark for his service and great focus as Moderator.  Dave Weber added words of thanks to the entire staff.

Incoming Moderator comments—Carl Skorepa
Addressing the congregation for the first time as Moderator, Carl asked for the congregation’s prayers and expressed excitement, on behalf of the whole church, in looking ahead to the coming year of working for and with God.  Recalling the words of the angel to Mary, Carl reminded all gathered, “With God, nothing shall be impossible.”

There being no additional business, Carl Skorepa declared the Annual Meeting adjourned.  Pastor Mariah led the congregation in a closing prayer, and all joined hands to sing “God Be With You.”

Respectfully recorded and submitted,
Dan Hunter
Clerk

Caring Team – August 10, 2011

Syd Benson opened the August meeting with prayer.  The team discussed the success of the August picnic chaired by Medith and Elly; held prior to the concert by the Homeland Singers.  Eighty-eight persons signed the sign-up form and approximately 135 attended.  A large number of desserts were donated by members of the church – - many attendees commented on the quality of the food.  Thanks to Medith and Elly for organizing and overseeing this event.  Plans for the picnic following “Alive on the Square” were finalized.  It was agreed to accept a free-will offering for the food instead of charging as in the past.  Plans are being made for the 50+ Year Luncheon which is coming up September 24th.

The Caring Leadership Team thanks Marilyn Canfield and her faithful helper Don Canfield for being the Coffee Hour coordinator for several years.  Marilyn has been committed to her task and done a wonderful job of providing resources for the coffee hour following the 10:30 Sunday service.   We appreciate her dedication and all the coffee hours she and Don hosted when no one else was available.
The new Coffee Hour coordinators are Lorna Lindsley and Ruth Gifford.  Let them know when you can host a coffee hour.

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, September 14th at 7:00pm in the Church Library

Mission Team – September 18, 2011

Mission Team – September 18, 2011

The Mission Team met and after approving the minutes and financial report, it was announced that the regular “Neighbors in Need” offering would take place on October 2, 2011.  It is being advertised in the Messenger.  Beth Hari reported on the August Council meeting.

Old business of possibly taking a tour of the UCC Headquarters in Cleveland was discussed.  Julie Kraus discussed the possibility of putting together Disaster Kits.

Mariah reported that the youth groups will participate in the Crop Walk also on October 2.

The Team discussed the Mission 1 project and it was decided that Beth Hari, Lynn Leckie, and Carol Mitchell would meet prior to the Council meeting to design a plan.  Beth will email the Team with the results of the meeting and then present the plan to Council on the September 22nd.

The next meeting will be Sunday, October 16, 2011 after the 10:30AM worship service.

Finance Team – September 2011

Finance-Resource Focused Leadership Team
Highlights –September, 2011 meeting

The total cost of the drainage repair project (including reseeding the area) on the North and West side of the church is approximately $51,000.  To help pay for the cost of this necessary repair, the Finance team approved transferring approximately $4300 from dormant restricted accounts and from other sources into the Capital Fund.  Including 2011 pledges and recent gifts to the Capital Fund, a total of $38,000 has been raised for the repair as of Sept., 2011.   This leaves a deficit of approximately $13,000, which has been taken from our cash reserves.    Approximately 55 church members have contributed to the endeavor in 2011.    Additional contributions to this completed project will be appreciated.
The Finance Team has approved allocating 80% to the operating budget and 20% to the benevolence budget in 2012 for undesignated member pledges.  For the year 2013, the Team will consider directing a portion of the undesignated member pledges to the Capital budget.

Discipleship/Education September 14, 2011

Board of Christian Education Meeting – August 14, 2011  -  Minutes

Following our call to order, a brief devotion and prayer led by Stacie Yates, we discussed and approved both the August minutes and our monthly budget.

Old Business discussions included:

Safe Church Policy  – Stacie emailed to Gene Kraus, he responded with comments, she will email to DELT board for review;
Youth Group – Meal Coordinator for 2011-2012 School year – Jill will still do? Will assign dates to parents & DELT volunteers
UCC Council Meeting: Kellie Johns gave an overview of discussions at the Council Meeting
Alive on the Square review – jumphouse was great; no bees at picnic; ponies never showed for some reason;  may need kids’ ‘keep busy’ packs for during service – too hard to structure a lesson/ program for that many kids outdoors

New Business discussions included:
FISH – 2011-2012 – school year
Teachers – Shepherds needed – Teachers covered for first rotation, still seeking shepherds;  need both teachers & shepherds for later rotations;  discussion followed of possible people to ask to serve in this way
Rally Day – 9/18 – conclusion of Dr Seuss unit with Butter Battle Booksnack & craft to go with the theme of the book
UCC Women’s Retreat – ideas for possible themes:  Prayer; Making spiritual goals?  Tentatively scheduled for Jan 21st *
Crop Walk – 9/25 & 10/2 collect pledges;  walk is on 10/2;  see more below…
Mission One – 11-11-11 – Youth will conduct a cereal collection for food pantry -  11/1 – 11/13 – announce on 10/30; have 11-year-olds make announcement?
First Christian Church’s Retreat  9/17 (9:30a – 7pm) ‘help exchange’ – not needed after all (they cancled due to low sign-up); they will still help us if needed
All Church Hayride – 10/23 Boyert’s Barn – help needed to donate food items,  Tammy will organize donation sign-up via e-vite
Operation Christmas Child – Oct 16 is due date for supplies to go in boxes;  completed boxes due Nov 20th;

Mariah’s Time:
Youth Group:   finding something for high schoolers to do; need a leader to lead
High school FISH:  Communion Sunday HSers will help with service;  other Sundays they have class or help with younger FISH
Confirmation Class 2011-2012  – 10 out of 11 came
Preaching Workshop Nov. 12th -  11-3 with lunch – open to everyone!
CROP Walk – Oct 2nd ;  meet at Methodist church @ 1:30 – walk, then return to church around 3:15 for snack & educational game, focus on ‘water’
High school youth – mentorship/sponsor program – focus less on financial help and more on spiritual help (meet for coffee, pray for them, etc.)
Correction Officer thank you notes – need people to take cards and write a note to them!

NEXT MEETING
October 20, 2011
7 pm

Discipleship & Education Aug. 16, 2011

Discipleship & Education Team :

The DELT team met on Tuesday, August 16th instead of our usual 3rd Thursday meeting day.  After prayer & devotional time and approval of the month’s budget, we discussed:  Safe Church Policy (hopefully to be approved at Sept meeting?), Youth Group Meal Coordinator duties, VBS review, review of both Middle School & High School Youth Work Camps,  our participation a joint VBS for for Let’s Make A Difference kids (overall successful but with a few kinks to work out if we do again next year;  Stacie will be meeting with coordinators from other churches to review);  Let’s Make A Difference Kandyland,  summer FISH (everyone – kids and teachers – like the Dr Seuss theme).

As we look forward to the  upcoming fall season, we discussed planning for  FISH:  Rally Day (opening day) Sept 18th;   Alive on the Square – we need to help supervise bouncy house, other activities;  Leadership Team meeting 8/28;  we will be helping First Christian Church with their women’s retreat on 9/17 by serving a meal & clean up; they will return the favor at a future date for us;  All Church Hayride coming up 10/23 at Boyert’s;   Empty Bowl mission coming in April;  starting generating ideas for our own Women’s Retreat – possibly late Fall, focus on Spiritual Goal-setting; offer stations around the church with craft, yoga, speaker?;   a few changes for upcoming Youth Group season :  High School youth meeting changes (1x/ month for dinner somewhere, plus 1 church event each month);  Middle School Youth seeking Mission Trip ideas, adding a few new activities.

Our team mission continues to grow in so many ways. We seek anyone who would like join us for any or all this year’s exciting Christian Discipleship and Education events !  Just ‘knock and the door…’  is open

Caring Team August 2011

Syd Benson opened the August meeting with prayer.  The team discussed the success of the August picnic chaired by Medith and Elly; held prior to the concert by the Homeland Singers.  Eighty-eight persons signed the sign-up form and approximately 135 attended.  A large number of desserts were donated by members of the church – - many attendees commented on the quality of the food.  Thanks to Medith and Elly for organizing and overseeing this event.  Plans for the picnic following “Alive on the Square” were finalized.  It was agreed to accept a free-will offering for the food instead of charging as in the past.  Plans are being made for the 50+ Year Luncheon which is coming up September 24th.

The Caring Leadership Team thanks Marilyn Canfield and her faithful helper Don Canfield for being the Coffee Hour coordinator for several years.  Marilyn has been committed to her task and done a wonderful job of providing resources for the coffee hour following the 10:30 Sunday service.   We appreciate her dedication and all the coffee hours she and Don hosted when no one else was available.
The new Coffee Hour coordinators are Lorna Lindsley and Ruth Gifford.  Let them know when you can host a coffee hour.

Our next meeting will be Wednesday, September 14th at 7:00pm in the Church Library

Caring Team July 2011

The Caring Leadership Team held its July meeting on Wednesday the 13th.  Three faithful members were in attendance, Medith Davis, Nancy Montgomery and Jan Holt along with Pastor Neal Sadler and guest Deb Waldron.

Deb shared information regarding the Market America Shopping Portal that she has set up where members, family and friends can shop and the church will receive a royalty check.  A recent check for $90.00+ was received.

The Homeland Singers will be performing for us on Sunday, August 7th following a combined worship at 10:00am and a picnic featuring grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.  Medith Davis and Elly Aberegg  are preparing the menu.   The Alive on the Square picnic to be held September 11, 2011 was discussed.  We will follow the same procedures of previous years.

June 16, 2011 Meeting Summary

Reconciliation Team

“Discovering Your Reconciliation Style” Workshop:
Feedback from the June 11 workshop was positive. The workshop helped 13 participants discover their own style of dealing with conflict while learning about other styles and approaches. Everyone was engaged in the lively discussion. The workshop will be repeated prior to the “Managing Conflict” Training.
“Managing Conflict” Training:
The Team scheduled “Managing Conflict,” an in-depth, four session training program for the fall. Participants will learn and strengthen their conflict management skills. Individuals will be able to help others “fight fair” and minimize the damage conflict can cause. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend the “Discovering Your Reconciliation Style” workshop prior to the training.
Book Study:
The team is exploring the possibility of sponsoring a non-fiction book group related to relationship challenges, problem solving, getting along with others and various conflict management subjects.
Workshop and Training Schedule:
All workshops and training events will be held on Thursday from 7-8:30 pm
  Sep 15th Discovering Your Reconciliation Style (Repeat)
  Oct 6th Managing Conflict I
  Oct 20th Managing Conflict II
  Nov 3rd  Managing Conflict III
  Nov 17th Managing Conflict IV

Evangelism Team Notes 6/7/2011

The Evangelism team met on June 7, 2011.  During the Memorial Day parade the team (along with other volunteers) set up a good old fashion pop-corn and lemon aid stand in front of the Church.  It was a wonderful day and the refreshments were appreciated by the parade goers.  We collected a free will offering of $66.00 which will be donated to relief funds for the families affected by the latest weather disasters.  We are planning on setting up the stand for future events here in Medina.

There will be a unified service August 7, 2011 lead by the young people of the church.  Following the service we will have a church picnic supported by the caring team.  Also that day we are very excited about welcoming The Homeland Singers, www.thehomelandsingers.com, to the church courtyard.  We are grateful for Cindy Korecky for putting us together with The Homeland Singers.

The team is always seeking ways to promote UCC Medina to the community and most importantly the relationship between our members and God!  We are always seeking additional team members.  If you enjoy developing relationships, advertising, promotions, etc please contact Crell Johns-330-204-2496 or cjohns@zoominternet.net