Trinity News

October 19, 2005

September Vestry Meeting Highlights

Vestry meeting summary Tuesday 25th September 2005

• Interim Rector’s Report – Rev Anne reported on her first weeks at Trinity getting to know people, with meetings back to back, and many exciting and important events in the life of the parish. Staff meetings will run 9.30 to 10.00 for clergy and other staff 10.00 to 12.00. Liturgy matters are addressed at 9.00 on Wednesdays. Anne has also had the opportunity to visit Trinity School and CFI. Anne was happy to report the hiring of Alex Hardt to be Trinity’s youth minister and first responses were very positive. On the topic of worship at Trinity of course Anne’s first few weeks have been very eventful with first her first Sunday and then Bishop Swing’s visit and the dedication of Angus Hall on 9/11. Anne commented that attendance this last Sunday was rather poor at all services and this was a pity as lots of good things were happening at Trinity. Anne pointed out that both the 9.10 and 5.00 services are in need of host families. Anne said that Larry had put in a request for Joe to be made music director of the 5.00 service with the responsibility for the music planning in addition to his piano playing. The Vestry supported this suggestion, which is possible within the existing music budget. Finally Anne said that the Reverend Frannie Hall-Kieschnik will be offered the position of non-stipendiary priest of Trinity giving her a parish home. Anne would like to see a rotation of Fred, Frannie and herself participating in the preaching at all the various services of the week.
• Financials – Jeannie Thomas gave an update on August financials showing YTD income at $465k, 97% of plan, and YTD expenses at $457k, 97% of plan. Expenses exceeded income for the month by $57k. Total reserves stand at around $243k representing about 4 months. On the upcoming budgeting process, Jeannie said that there had been two meeting so far. Jeff said that the finance committee is looking for general guidance from the Vestry for different income scenarios and feedback is sought by 10/7 on such issues as a) funding for social ministries b) balanced or deficit funded budgets c) funding staff positions d) funding/replenish reserves e) endowments draw allocations
• Vestry Candidates and Deanery Delegates – Margie reported that the 6 candidates would have their information bulletins published on notice board and also on the parish website. A search committee will be formed for the Deanery Delegates with election set for October 23rd. Trinity is eligible for up to seven Delegates. Delegates need to be able to listen to concerns of the congregation, be up on the issues facing the church, and be prepared to communicate on issues to the congregation. Delegates will also participate in the election of the new Bishop in May ’06.
• Family Ministries – Debbie broke the news, sad for Trinity but happy for the Dolan family, that Pamela and her family will be moving to St. Louis most likely around Thanksgiving. A search committee will be formed and Debbie mentioned that Sally Mancini has kindly offered to help with this process. Debbie asked for suggestions as to who would be interested to help on the search committee.
• Stewardship – Harry outlined the upcoming Stewardship program, including inserts in service notes covering thoughts on Stewardship on one side, and budget and program information on the other. A more detailed communication would be included in the October newsletter and homilies would be directed to Stewardship through October into early November. A letter from Rev Anne centered on the spiritual part of Stewardship will be mailed October 31st. The Stewardship committee will make a presentation at the October 16th 3rd Sunday supper.
• Rector search Process – Rev Anne said that the search committee needed to be formed in late October and there would be a solicitation in the October newsletter seeking people who would be prepared to serve on this committee. Anne stressed the need to get broad involvement in this process. The deadline for names in October 18th in time for review at the Executive Committee meeting of October 19th.

Full meeting minutes are available in the church office.