2018 ALL CANADA CONVENTION REGIONAL ASSEMBLY of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. Convention Docket

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1 2018 ALL CANADA CONVENTION REGIONAL ASSEMBLY of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Convention Docket Thursday Aug 2 Sunday Aug 5, 2018 University of Guelph, Guelph, ON / Sugarbush Christian Church (DoC), Guelph, ON 2018 Convention Docket 1

2 Contents 2018 ALL CANADA CONVENTION SCHEDULE... 4 General Information & Welcome... 6 Registration / Check-out on Sunday... 6 Snacks & Meals... 6 Maps & Local Resources... 7 Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Regional Profile Presenters Interest Groups Convention Business Agenda Business Items Minutes of the Previous Convention Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04A Vice Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04B Regional Minister s Report Business Item 18-04C Report of the Nominating Committee Business Item 18-04D Committee on Ministry Report Business Item 16-04E Western Christian Fellowship Report Business Item 18-04F Central Area Report Business Item 16-04G Maritime Area Report Business Item 16-04H Youth & Young Adult Ministries Business Item 18-04I Encounter 2016 Business Item 18-04J College of Churches of Christ in Canada Business Item 18-05A Report of the Pension Plan in Canada Business Item 18-05B Affirmation of the Plan Restatement Business Item Canadian Rep to the General Board Business Item 18-05C Canadian Council of Churches Business Item 18-05D Convention Docket 2

3 Church of Christ Development Company Business Item 18-05E Time and Place of Next Convention Business Item Courtesy Motion Business Item ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Of The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Incorporated Approval of the Minutes of the 2017 Meeting AGM Ratification of the Board Actions AGM Financial Statement AGM Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report AGM Recognitions In Memoriam: August 2016 August George H. Stewart Awards Directory of the Christian Churches (Disciples of Christ) In Canada Record of Service Record of Service (continued) Time & Place of All Canada Conventions and Conferences Standing Rules for Conducting Business of the Convention Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Convention Docket 3

4 2018 ALL CANADA CONVENTION SCHEDULE Thursday Aug 2 Sunday Aug 5, 2016 Hosted by: Sugarbush Christian Church (DoC), Guelph, ON Venue: University of Guelph, Guelph, ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 2 10:00 am - 2:30 pm Clergy Anti-Oppression Training - Alice Schuda SB - 1st Floor 1:00 pm Registration Opens U of G - Glengarry (East Residence) - 1st Floor 3:00 pm CC(DoC) Board of Directors Meeting SB - 2nd Floor 7:00 pm Opening Worship UC 442 8:00 pm College Lecture 1 - Rev. Dr. Lisa W. Davison UC 442 9:00 pm Meet + Greet Reception UC 442 FRIDAY, AUGUST 3 7:30 am Breakfast UC Food Court - 1st Floor 8:45 am Contemplative Meditation - April Burrows UC 441 9:00 am Devotions + Announcements - Rev. Doug Avram UC 442 9:30 am College Lecture 2 - Rev. Dr. Lisa W. Davison UC :30 am Break w/ Light Refreshments UC :45 am Business Session 1 UC :15 pm Lunch UC Food Court - 1st Floor 1:00 pm Workshop Session 1 (three options) UC 430, UC 441, UC 442 1:45 pm Break 2:00 pm Workshop Session 2 (three options) UC 430, UC 441, UC 442 2:45 pm Break 3:15 pm CC(DoC) Annual Meeting UC 442 4:15 pm Break/Stretching - Wendelin Galatianos UC 442 4:30 pm Dinner UC Food Court - 1st Floor 5:30 pm Blanket Exercise Training - Wendelin Galatianos UC 430 7:00 pm Worship - Rev. Terri Hord Owens UC 442 8:00 pm CCCC 90th Anniversary Celebration UC SB: Sugarbush Christian Church (86 Glasgow St. N) U of G: University of Guelph (50 Stone Rd.) UC: University Centre CC(DoC): Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) CCCC: College of Churches of in Canada OGMP: Office of the General Minister and President CFG: Center for Faith and Giving Encounter: Youth Program 2018 Convention Docket 4

5 2018 ALL CANADA CONVENTION SCHEDULE (continued) SATURDAY, AUGUST 4 7:30 am Breakfast UC 442 8:45 am Contemplative Meditation - April Burrows UC 441 9:00 am Devotions + Announcements-Florfina Marcelino UC 442 9:30 am College Lecture 3 - Rev. Dr. Lisa W. Davison UC :30 am Break w/ Light Refreshments UC :00 am Building Beloved Community - Rev. Dr. Jen Garbin UC :15 pm Lunch UC 442 1:30 pm OGMP State of the Church - Rev. Terri Hord Owens UC 442 3:15 pm Break 3:45 pm CFG Stewardship Session - Rev. Bruce Barkhauer UC 442 4:30 pm Travel to SB 5:00 pm Banquet SB - 1st Floor 7:00 pm Worship - Encounter + Drew Gillette SB - 2nd Floor 9:00 pm Young Adult Session - Trevor Brisbin Downtown Guelph SUNDAY, AUGUST 5 8:00 am Breakfast UC :30 am Worship Service - Rev. Dr. Jen Garbin UC :00 pm Photo Session UC :15 pm Lunch UC 442 1:00-4:00 pm CC(DoC) Board Meeting SB - 1st Floor 6:00 pm 2 pm on Monday) Clergy & Companions Retreat UC SB: Sugarbush Christian Church (86 Glasgow St. N) U of G: University of Guelph (50 Stone Rd.) UC: University Centre CC(DoC): Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) CCCC: College of Churches of in Canada OGMP: Office of the General Minister and President CFG: Center for Faith and Giving Encounter: Youth Program 2018 Convention Docket 5

6 General Information & Welcome Welcome to the 2018 All-Canada Convention of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada at the University of Guelph, hosted by Sugarbush Christian Church in Guelph, Ontario. The Convention Planning Committee, led by Kaeli Sweigard, Awit Marcellino, and Ann Stainton, has put together a program with the aim of strengthening our congregations through worship, fellowship and learning about important issues in the world in which we live and minister. We trust that you will find some things in the program that will continue to inspire you as you return to work in your home congregation. Welcome! Registration / Check-out on Sunday The Registration Desk will be set up in the East Residence Town Hall for Thursday afternoon. Please stop by to pick up your name tag, docket and delegate bag. Checking Out on Sunday? Check-out time is 11:00AM. There is time after breakfast and before worship to pack-up and check out of your room. Remember to return your key!. Snacks & Meals Please bring a reusable water bottle with you to refill during the day. Coffee/tea/water will be available at the break times during our meeting. For those who have purchased a meal plan, Friday meals will be served in the University Centre Centre 6 food court. Saturday and Sunday meals will be delivered to UC442. Saturday Banquet will be at Sugarbush Christian Church, 86 Glasgow Street N. Worship will follow in the sanctuary of St James the Apostle (same building) Convention Docket 6

7 Maps & Local Resources 2018 Convention Docket 7

8 Guelph, ON Directions to Sugarbush 2018 Convention Docket 8

9 Places to Eat Near Campus 2018 Convention Docket 9

10 Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Regional Profile The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada has a structure that views Canada as one of its 32 regions. However, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada (CCIC) is a national church and is recognized as such by the World Council of Churches, the Canadian Council of Churches and other bodies. In 2017 we adopted the following vision & mission to guide our work of undergirding and supporting the ministry of our congregations: Our Vision: Bringing people together in God s love, to build relationships, explore faith, and transform lives and the world. Our Mission: With God s help, we boldly proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ through faithfully caring for our congregations and leaders, and providing transformative opportunities for witness, worship, learning, Christian unity and service as we live God s love in the world. Three Area Ministries, with a total of 18 well-established congregations and 4 new churches, make up the CCIC. The Maritime Area has congregations in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island; the Central Area has congregations in Ontario and Quebec; and the Western Fellowship has congregations in Alberta and Manitoba. There is a diversity of cultures and history that shapes the identities of each Area. The Maritime Area comprises the oldest settlements in the country and some of the earliest congregations of the Restoration Movement in Canada. The churches in West Gore and Milton, founded in 1837 and 1840 respectively, may be the oldest still-functioning Disciple congregations in Canada. The Maritime Area has 5 congregations: Milton, a semi-rural church; Summerville, a rural church with a cottage-dweller influx each summer; West Gore, a rural church within an hour of Halifax; Wyndholme, an urban church in transition; and All Peoples Church in Charlottetown, PEI, a church focusing on the spiritual needs of the elderly and others on the fringes of society. The sixth, and perhaps most dynamic ministry in the Area, is the youth camping program at Johnston Christian Park. Roughly 200 campers and 50 volunteer staff are involved in the Christian camping program, where leadership and Christian witness are encouraged and mentored. The strength of the church in the Maritimes lies in God s gifts to its people. Volunteering and giving back to the community are strong traditions in the Area. We contribute significantly to mission work in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The Central Area includes both the provinces of Ontario and Québec: with four (Francophone) congregation in Québec -- two Haitian (Église Chrétienne de la Pentécôte Missionnaire des Prières (Disciples du Christ) and Église Évangélique Mahanaïm De La Rive Nord), one Congolese (Église Parole de Vie/Word of Life Church), and one Hispanic (Somos Uno Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); and six congregations in Ontario. The official name of the incorporated 2018 Convention Docket 10

11 provincial body is The Ontario Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) referred to as the OACC. At present there are 5 participating congregations in the OACC, ranging in age from 165 years to a recent church plant: urban intercultural Hillcrest (Toronto); Winger (Wainfleet), a church with a rural feel, close to the campgrounds; Mapleton (near Aylmer), a truly rural congregation, draws people from the immediate area and surrounding cities; St Thomas at less than 30 years old, the result of merging two existing congregations; and Sugarbush Christian Church, an open and affirming new congregation based in Guelph which was founded in We said goodbye to two congregations in the past biennium, one through disassociation (Gathering Place, 2016), and the second, Guelph Christian Church who closed their visible ministry in The sole asset owned by the OACC is the Disciples Conference Grounds near Dunnville, Ontario, a beautiful property on the north shore of Lake Erie. This is a venue for the OACC children and youth camp program, special events such as Adult Retreat Weekend, Fellowship Sunday, and as an income producing asset through rentals. Within the Western Christian Fellowship, the churches in Alberta consist of three well established congregations plus two in formation. Westlock Community Church of Christ is a small congregation who enjoy a rich, caring fellowship. Campbell Stone United Church in Calgary is a union congregation of the Disciples and the United Church of Canada. This congregation has recently launched a new plant/innovative ministry, Brush With the Spirit that focuses on the relationship of art, food, and spirituality. McKernan Christian Church continues to be our lone Disciples voice in the University District of Edmonton. Q is an innovative, open and affirming congregation in formation that focuses on theological and relational discussions with persons who are searching using a 12-step model. Broadway Disciples United Church in Winnipeg is the only congregation in Manitoba and is a blend of Disciples of Christ and United Church of Canada. They most recently called a pastor from the United Church in the Philippines, as an action towards living into the new Full Communion agreement the United Church of Canada shares with the United Church of Christ. In addition to our three Areas, we are excited to have two chaplains serving in Ontario and New Brunswick. We continue to be active participants with our ecumenical partners, the Canadian Council of Churches (of which we are founding members), and have representatives on each of the commissions and committees of the Council. The Canadian Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) operates with a full-time Regional Minister, and an elected board of representatives from across the country. We strive to have balanced representation across the intercultural lived reality of our congregations, to ensure that all voices have opportunity to be heard. Within the Board, standing committees assist the Regional Minister with the day-to-day decision making and visioning of the Region, and ensure that our support of congregational ministry is readily available and accessible. Although the last biennium has been a time of change and transition, and we are not through the woods yet, the Board volunteers and leaders are to be commended for their steadfast faith, joy, perseverance, and dedication to this ministry. Much work is still to be done in our Region to meet the needs of God s people in our changing context. May we be open to the leading of the Spirit as God moulds us into the Beloved Community needed for our time Convention Docket 11

12 Presenters 2018 College Lecturer Rev. Dr. Lisa W. Davison Rev. Dr. Lisa W. Davison is the Johnnie Eargle Cadieux Professor of Hebrew Bible at Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, OK. A native of Radford, VA, Dr. Davison has a BA (Religion & Spanish) from Lynchburg College; an MDiv from Brite Divinity School (TCU), and an MA from Vanderbilt University. Dr. Davison received her Ph.D. in Hebrew Bible from Vanderbilt. She is ordained in the Christian Church (DOC) and has served congregations in Texas & Kentucky. Davison s first book, Preaching the Women of the Bible, was published in June, Her other publications include: the commentary on the book of Job for The New Interpreter s Study Bible, essays on the major prophets for The College Study Bible, an essay in Tabletalk, entries for the Encyclopedia of the Stone-Campbell Movement, a sermon in Those Preaching Women: A Multicultural Collection, commentaries for the New Proclamation Series, Year C, and the essays on Ruth & Naomi and Bathsheba for StudyJust Women Bible. One of her sermons was selected for inclusion in The Living Pulpit: Sermons that Illustrate Preaching in the Stone- Campbell Movement Currently, she is at work on her second book about women in the Hebrew Bible who are remembered without described as mothers or barren. Prior to joining the faculty of Phillips Theological Seminary, Lisa was Professor of 1st Testament at Lexington Theological Seminary ( ) and Professor of Religious Studies at Lynchburg College ( ). Dr. Davison is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature. She is often invited to speak to local congregations and retreats on the topics: books in the Hebrew Bible, women in the bible, sexuality and the bible, and Christian use and misuse of the Hebrew Bible. Dr. Davison is married to the Rev. Michael Davison, and the two of them enjoy traveling (especially to tropical climates) and gourmet dining. General Minister & President Rev. Terri Hord-Owens Rev. Teresa Terri Hord Owens was elected General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in July She is the first person of color and second woman to lead the denomination. A descendant of one of the oldest African-American free colonies in Indiana and a Disciple since young adulthood, Hord Owens was dean of students at the University of Chicago Divinity School and pastor of First Christian Church of Downers Grove, IL prior to her election. Hord Owens resume includes more than 20 years in corporate 2018 Convention Docket 12

13 America leading diverse data management teams in health care and other industries before she entered seminary. After ordination, she served 15 years at the University of Chicago Divinity School, shepherding a varied student body in both background and theology. Hord Owens is widely sought after as a preacher, speaker and workshop facilitator. Her ministry and intellectual interests include a theology of reconciliation, cultural intelligence, developing inclusive and multi-cultural congregations, and the mentoring of young adults. She marked three decades of marriage with Walter Owens, Jr., prior to her election. They are the proud parents of an adult son, W. Mitchell Owens, III. Guests & Presenters Ecumenical Guest from the United Church of Canada John H. Young is the Executive Minister, Theological Leadership, in the General Council Office of The United Church of Canada. Prior to taking this position in 2016, he served congregations in Nova Scotia and in eastern Ontario and then taught Theology and Religious Studies at Queen s Theological College, Queen s University, for twenty-five years. He is the author, along with the Rev. Dr. Catherine Faith MacLean, of Preaching the Big Questions: Doctrine Isn t Dusty, published in John is part of the United Church delegation in the ongoing full communion talks with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. General Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Rev. Ayanna Johnson Watkins serves as the Director of the NBA Incubate Initiative. In this role, she seeks out and supports the development of new health and social service ministries as well as the Disciple social entrepreneurs who are starting them. Ayanna's work centers around giving shape to the Incubator Initiative by identifying and encouraging new ministry projects, connecting ministry entrepreneurs to resources and information, and engaging the church and community around new ways of serving our neighbours. Ayanna has had the privilege of serving two Disciples of Christ churches thus far--park Manor Christian Church as youth pastor and Family of Hope Christian Church as church planter--both in the Chicago area. For five years, she was the Director of Community Life at Chicago Theological Seminary, a United Church of Christ seminary. Ayanna has also been an active social worker--serving as a community organizer, a counselor for at-risk youth and mentally-ill adults, and an advocate for public aid clients. She has written articles for multiple Disciples publications as well as The Christian Century magazine, and she has led and facilitated conferences and workshops on leadership, mentoring communities, domestic violence, and youth development Convention Docket 13

14 Ayanna earned her B.A. in Sociology from Yale University before going on to complete both the Master of Divinity and the Master of Arts in Social Service Administration at the University of Chicago. She has been an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) since Along with her husband and daughter, she calls Memphis, TN home. Rev. Bonnie Osei-Frimpong serves as the Director of NBA XPLOR for the National Benevolent Association of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Bonnie joins the NBA team with experience serving several Disciple ministries, including the Division of Overseas Ministries, Disciples Peace Fellowship, and Week of Compassion. Bonnie worked with Church World Service Indonesia and the American Red Cross. Her work throughout all of these agencies has focused on developing and implementing programs to support education policy, disaster response, citizenship formation, economic justice, and HIV/AIDS prevention and response programs. Getting to Know Bonnie: Why do you feel "called to care" about Disciples health and social service ministry? I could talk a long time about theological, scriptural, and ethical imperatives to care for the vulnerable among us. The main thing, though, is that this work is so much fun. Our work is to help say YES to God's dream, and to people's dreams, for a more just world inhabited by beloved community. I know I am called to do this work because it is hard, challenging, interesting, collaborative, transformative, and so dang much fun. Reverend Jane Sullivan-Davis is a native of Ohio, the daughter of ministers of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She served as a Disciple and later Global Ministries missionary in Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Chile and New York City for a total of 18 years from Since 2000 she ministers as the Executive of Resource Development for Global Ministries, working with individuals and congregations of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) that wish to explore special giving opportunities to support the work of Global Ministries. Jane is a graduate of Earlham College, Richmond Indiana and of Yale University Divinity School. She is married to George Sullivan-Davis, a hospital chaplain, and they are the proud parents of two grown daughters. Bruce A. Barkhauer was called as the first Minister for Faith and Giving for Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2010, after 25 years of parish ministry. Since that time he has engaged the whole church in conversations about generosity and offered transformative ways for congregations to think about stewardship. His energy, vision, and entrepreneurial spirit enhance gifts in both business and ministry. He brings a biblically based understanding about stewardship combined with theological integrity and weds them to the current trends and best 2018 Convention Docket 14

15 practices related to spirituality and money. He is the author of numerous articles, and most recently a book of devotions entitled Community of Prayer (published by Chalice Press, 2016). He is a graduate of Ohio University (Athens), Christian Theological Seminary (Indianapolis), and did Doctor of Ministry studies at Ashland Theological Seminary (Ashland, OH). He is married to Laura and they share three grown children and three grandchildren. Rev. Dr. Olivia Updegrove is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She attended seminary at Lexington Theological Seminary and completed her doctoral work at Claremont School of Theology with an emphasis in preaching. She has worked with kids, youth, and young adults at various stages of her ministry, and has a deep passion for biblical education for all ages as a foundation for deeper spiritual growth. The Rev. Dr. Ken Brooker Langston is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He is a graduate of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (BA), The University of Chicago Divinity School (M. Div), and Emory University in Atlanta, GA (Ph. D). He is the Coordinator of the Disciples Center for Public Witness and the Director of Disciples Justice Action Network (DJAN) and the coconvener of DAWN (Disciples Advocacy and Witness Network). He also serves as the Board co-chair of Equal Partners in Faith and the cofacilitator of Protestant Justice Action. He has served as a member for the Justice and Advocacy Commission of the National Council of Churches, Advisory Board of Interfaith Voices/Faith Matters Radio, National Religious Leadership Roundtable and on the Anti-Racism/Pro-Reconciliation Team of the Christian Church Capital Area. Ken was also on the Board of Directors at the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, Before his work for the Center and DJAN, Ken served as the National Field Director at Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and as the Director of Education and Religious Outreach at The Interfaith Alliance Convention Docket 15

16 Canadian Disciples Presenters Janet Anstead is an engaging spiritual leader for Mapleton Church of Christ (Disciples), in Ontario. She is active in the church and in the community at large. Her diverse talents range from typical ministerial duties to directing many Disciples Conference Grounds camping experiences, participating in the Women's Church Council, and lecturing at the University of Western Ontario. Janet loves to golf, garden and spend time with her brand-new grand daughter. Tim Campbell, Strategist, is the chief strategist with Relation Media, a digital marketing company supporting nonprofits, small businesses and individuals. A Disciple later in life, he has many eclectic interests from food to culture, tattoos to cinema, literature and thrill seeking. Rev Doug Avram was born in Timmins. Baptized in the Greek Orthodox tradition. Chose to become a United Church member at age 12. Attended University of Western Ontario, graduating with a B.Sc. Moved to Aylmer Ontario with his wife and family in Encouraged and challenged by his minister, Rev. Matthew Penny to become a Lay Preacher. Provided pulpit relief for six years then attended Huron College in the Master of Divinity program in 2005, graduating in Became a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2005, and was hired as the Interim Part-time pastor of the St. Thomas Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Was ordained in 2008 and served the St. Thomas church as their full time minister until Doug and his wife Lynda are now members of the Mapleton Church of Christ. Awit Marcelino is a second generation Filipino-Canadian from Winnipeg, MB. She is a Master of Divinity student at Emmanuel College at the University of Toronto and the pastor of Sugarbush Christian Church, an open and affirming congregation in Guelph. She is one of 3 Canadian representatives on the Disciples Women Leadership Council, a council member for the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada, the Canadian representative of the International Committee for the Fellowship of the Least Coin, and a board member of The Hunger Project Canada. She is passionate about women's leadership, youth empowerment, and interfaith conversations. Wendelin Galatianos will be leading in the Kairos Blanket exercise. She is a long time member of Guelph Christian Church and Sugarbush Christian Church and served on the Assembly planning team. She loves to cook, sing, and has been a faithful member of the OACC for many years Convention Docket 16

17 Flor Marcelino is a member of the Broadway Disciples United Church in Winnipeg, MB. Mother of 5 adult children and grandmother to five grandsons aged three years to 1 year. She has served as Interim Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition from May 2016 to September 2017 Manitoba Legislative Assembly. From 2009 to 2016 she served as Minister for Culture, Heritage, and Tourism, and the Minister for Multiculturalism and Literacy; the first person from the visible minority groups to be given a cabinet position in the history of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, and in May 2007, became the first woman of colour ever elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly. Flor was a Board Member of the All-Canada Committee of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the 90s, and has served the church as a member of the board for the St. Stephen s-broadway Foundation, a member of the board of Global Ministries, and as an elder of her home congregation. Dr Darlene Brewer is passionate about Pastoral and Spiritual Care, Social Justice and Faith Formation for today. Her passion is supporting people, as individuals and communities, as we walk the life journey together. She is currently Pastor at Wyndholme Christian Church in Dartmouth, NS, where she is part of a pastoral team. Previously, she worked with the Carlington Community Chaplaincy and Centre 507, both in Ottawa. Darlene holds an earned Ph.D. in Historical & Systematic Theology from Saint Paul University and University of Ottawa, Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies from the Atlantic School of Theology, and a B.A. in English Literature and Religious Studies from her home province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Currently, Darlene is a candidate for ordained ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and she teaches occasionally as a lecturer with the Atlantic School of Theology, with specialization in feminist and contextual theologies.brewer Rev Dr Jennifer Garbin (Jen) is a mother, life-long learner, church planter, & Canada s Regional Minister. Seven years ago she and her family came to Guelph to plant a new Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation from the faithful vision of Guelph Christian Church. Jen is a graduate of Emmanuel College (TST) (her Doctor of Ministry thesis on emerging adults in Canada). She recently penned a number of Lenten reflections for an upcoming United Church of Canada collection to be published later this year. Her story has also been featured in Alison Braithwaite s book In Her Own Words: Women s Wisdom to Move You From Surviving to Thriving. Jen is a total church nerd and believes whole-heartedly that although the church in Canada is changing, we are on the edge of something incredible, an opportunity to not only transform the world around us, but be ourselves transformed Convention Docket 17

18 Interest Groups 2018 Convention Docket 18

19 Convention Business Agenda Friday, August 3, :00a Roll Call 11:10a Housekeeping 11:20a (18-01) Agenda Additions, Amendments, Adoption 11:25a (18-02) Appointment of Business Committee 11:30a (18-03) Minutes of Previous Convention 11:40a (18-04) Receiving the Reports of the Christian Church (DoC) in Canada Minutes of the Previous Convention Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04A Vice Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04B Regional Minister s Report Business Item 18-04C Report of the Nominating Committee Business Item 18-04D Committee on Ministry Report Business Item 16-04E Western Christian Fellowship Report Business Item 18-04F Central Area Report Business Item 16-04G Maritime Area Report Business Item 16-04H Youth & Young Adult Ministries Business Item 18-04I Encounter 2016 Business Item 18-04J :50a (18-05) Receiving Reports from Related Organizations College of Churches of Christ in Canada Business Item 18-05A Report of the Pension Plan in Canada Business Item 18-05B Affirmation of the Plan Restatement Business Item Canadian Rep to the General Board Business Item 18-05C Canadian Council of Churches Business Item 18-05D Church of Christ Development Company Business Item 18-05E Time and Place of Next Convention Business Item Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report AGM :00 (18-07) Time and Place of Next Convention Business Item :05(18-08) Courtesy Motion Business Item :15 Adjourn 2018 Convention Docket 19

20 Convention Business Agenda 2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada, Incorporated Friday, August 3, :15 PM University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada Agenda: 3:00 3:15 Roll Call Members and Proxies CHRISTIAN CHURCH (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) IN CANADA 3:25 (AGM 18-01) Approval of the Minutes of the 2017 Meeting AGM :35 (AGM 18-02) Ratification of the Board Actions AGM :40 (AGM 18-03) Financial Statement AGM :00 (AGM 18-04) Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report AGM :10 (AGM 18-06) Election of Officers (Business Item 18-04D) :20 (AGM 18-07) Election of Nominating Committee (Business Item 18-04D) :30 Adjournment 2018 Convention Docket 20

21 Business Items Minutes of the Previous Convention Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Annual General Meeting Liverpool NS, Aug Call to Order3:56 pm EDT Roll Call Janet Anstead Gordon Baker All People's Christian Church (Charlottetown PE) Merrill Nicholson Broadway Disciples United Church (Winnipeg MB) Campbell Stone United Church (Calgary AB) Danah Cox Chalice Christian Church (Mississauga ON) EgliseEvangeliqueBaptiste Mahanaim (Montreal QC Evangelical Missionary Church of Prayer (Laval Des Rapides QC) Gathering Place Christian Church(Ridgetown ON) John Dick Millie Dick Lorrie Little Ron Little Guelph Christian Church (Guelph ON) WendelinGalatianos Hillcrest Christian Church (Toronto ON) Alice Porter (Clergy) 2 proxies Ann Stainton (Clergy) 2 proxies Bob Steffer (Clergy) 2018 Convention Docket 21

22 Mapleton Church of Christ (Mapleton ON) Janet Anstead (Clergy) McKernan Christian Church (Edmonton AB) Gordon Baker Lynne Baker Duwan Stover Ed Stover (Clergy)+ Proxies Jolien Witte, Mark Stover Milton Christian Church (Milton NS) Janet Fountain Peter Fountain Shirley Francis Vonna Walker Q Faith Community (Calgary AB) St. Thomas Christian Church (St. Thomas ON) Diana Player Jo-Ann Rattray Dianne Rutherford Tom Rutherford (Clergy) Sugarbush Christian Church (Guelph ON) WendelinGalatianos Jen Garbin (Clergy) Iris Lambert Rachael Pellett Summerville Christian Church (Queens City NS) WestGore Disciple Church (West Gore NS) Ardis Bond Gus MacDonald (Clergy) Reid Mitchell Debbie Weatherhead Westlock Community Church of Christ (Westlock AB) 2018 Convention Docket 22

23 Winger Church of Christ (Wainfleet ON) Brenda Anger Grant Anger Len Charlebois Kevin McDonald (Clergy) Ronda McDonald Wyndholme Christian Church (Dartmouth NS) Gerald Clarke Debbie Thibault Dianne Poole Others Rachel Frey (Clergy} Mark Toulouse (Clergy) Agenda The proposed agenda was approved by consensus. Minutes of the 2015 AGM p51 ***Len Charlebois / Debbie Weatherhead moved the minutes be approved. Carried Ratification of Board Actions 2015 p55 ***Peter Fountain / Ron Little moved ratification of Board actions with amended spelling of some names. Carried Financial Statements Minnie Rigg Grateful appreciation was expressed for the dedication and work of Minnie Rigg over many years. ***Minnie Rigg / Grant Anger moved acceptance of the Financial Statements as presented. Carried Financial Review ***Len Charlebois/ Alice Porter moved that the Financial Reviewer's Report be accepted. Carried Election of Financial Reviewer for 2017 ***Janet fountain /Diane Poole moved that the members of the AGM authorize the board to appoint our financial reviewers. Carried 2018 Convention Docket 23

24 Election of 2016 Board of Directors The following people were presented for election Maritime Area Debbie Weatherhead Peter Fountain Central Area KaeliSweigard Janet Anstead Juliana Rodriguez Hubert Reece Western Area Ed Stover Joel Escalante ***Janet Fountain / Iris Lambert moved acceptance of the above people as board members. Carried The following people are appointed to the board automatically by virtue of their position: Jen Garbin - Canadian Regional Minister Dianne Poole Maritime Area President Lorrie Little Ontario Assembly President Rachael Frey Western Christian Fellowship Officers ***Brenda Anger / Ann Stainton moved the following names were presented for election as officers: Carried Debbie Weatherhead - (Moderator with 2 year term) KaelieSweigard- (Vice Moderator with 2 year term) DebbieThibault (Secretary) Treasurer To be filled by the board Nominating Committee ***Debbie Weatherhead / Lorrie Little moved the following people be elected as members of the next Nominating Committee: Gerald Clarke,Roy Dungca, WendelinGalatianos, Elaine Lyons,Gus McDonald,Jennifer Watts,. Carried 2018 Convention Docket 24

25 Courtesy Motion ***Lorrie Little / Peter Fountain made the following motion: On behalf of the Convention, we wish to thank the many people who have made this convention possible:our host congregation, Milton Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Milton, NS for all the behind the scenes work and meals; the convention planning committee, chaired by Debbie Weatherhead, and including Janet and Peter Fountain, Shirley Francis; Bruce Hemming, Gus MacDonald, Diane Poole, Russell Prime and Deborah Stewart, all of our drivers from local `congregations; the many program participants and leaders: Rev. Dr. Mark Toulouse as the 2016 College of Churches of Christ in Canada lecturer, our workshop leaders, Rev. Danah Cox, Rev Janet Anstead, Rev Paul Tche and Rev. Dr Jennifer Garbin; our worship speakers Rev Dr Sharon Watkins, Rev Janet Anstead, Rev Dr Jennifer Garbin; our morning devotion leaders Dr Darlene Brewer,Rev Caroline Hamilton-Arnold and Rev Kevin MacDonald, our healthy body healthy minds leaders KaeliSweigard and Debbie Weatherhead; our cook Dean Sherman and all those who baked and provided desserts and snacks; musicians Pat Howell and Gus MacDonald; Encounter participants who will lead a Worship Service; our honoured members of The Order of G. H. Stewart Distinguished Award Recipients: Elaine Lyons, Jean MacArthur, Dianne Rutherford, and exhibitors, Julia Keith (World Convention), Jim Hamlett and David Nicholson (Pension Fund), Rev Dr Stanley Helton (Alberta Bible College); AwitMarcellino, Encounter 2016 Director as well as the many volunteers which helped make Encounter possible; the staff of the Best Western Hotel & Conference Centre; our Parliamentarian, John Dick, our Moderator, Rev Janet Anstead. Thank you to the members of the board and committee chairs, those who have given and will serve over the next biennium, so freely as volunteers in service of our Lord and for our church. Finally, we give thanks and appreciation for all who are in attendance at this 2016 Convention of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada, for without you, there would be no convention. May the work that we have begun here, in line with the faithfulness of those who have gone before, inspire us as we return home to be light and salt in our home communities. Carried Adjournment at 4:42 pm EDT Janet Anstead Respectfully submitted, Gordon Baker, Secretary 2018 Convention Docket 25

26 Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04A Dr. King s Beloved Community is a global vision, in which all people can share in the wealth of the earth. In the Beloved Community, poverty, hunger and homelessness will not be tolerated because international standards of human decency will not allow it. Racism and all forms of discrimination, bigotry and prejudice will be replaced by an all-inclusive spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood Love and trust will triumph over fear and hatred. There have been many times of turmoil and uncertainty in the world. Perhaps it s because of our lack of historical perspective or the effects of social media and up-to-the-minute news reporting that we develop a sky-is-falling attitude. There seems to be a nation-wide, perhaps world-wide, uncertainty about what lies ahead. In times past the church has been a source of reassurance and strength; a faith in God provided a sense of ultimate well-being. For many this has not faltered, but at least one or two generations of Canadians have grown up without the tradition of a Christian faith. That is not to say the values we cherish have been abandoned, but the firm foundation of belief in a higher power, a purposeful master plan in the world has, for many, been lost. As church-goers we often bemoan the fact that the number of people in church on Sunday morning has drastically declined. We measure our success as a church by people in the pews. While this may be an indicator of monetary support should it be the benchmark by which we measure pastoral and ministerial success? I believe we must look outward rather than inward when we are planning, implementing and evaluating ministry. A program that serves only those who are involved in the church is a lot like preaching to the choir. There s nothing wrong with providing uplifting, rejuvenating programs for those within our churches, but true discipleship calls us to open our doors and examine the needs of the community outside and to spread the good news of the gospel. Building a Beloved Community requires us to look beyond ourselves. We must learn to recognize and speak against the injustices we see in the world. A Beloved Community is one that sees and treats all people as equals regardless of race, colour, ethnicity, socio-economic status, sexual orientation or any of a myriad of parameters by which we tend to judge others. The preamble to the Design of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) attests In Christ's name and by his grace we accept our mission of witness and service to all people. The first tenet goes on to state, in part, in faithfulness to its nature, it continues to discern God s vision and to adapt its mission and structures to the needs of a changing world. Are we perhaps experiencing a critical downturn in the life of our church because of a failure to adapt to a changing world?as we search and discover what it means to build a Beloved Community I feel the skills and talents we need to adapt to a changing world will develop according to God s grace. As Moderator I ve been privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Jen and the Board of Directors to prepare our Region for the challenge of Building Beloved Community together. I look forward to continuing to strive toward this vision in the Region, the Maritime Area and my home congregation of West Gore. I am excited to see where God will lead us on this journey. Yours in Christ, Debbie Weatherhead, Moderator 2018 Convention Docket 26

27 Vice Moderator s Report Business Item 18-04B First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to the planning team for their hard work in pulling Convention together. I have not been able to be present for much of the planning, and the local arrangements team has morphed into a general planning team as well, for which I am extremely grateful. I am particularly grateful to Pastor Awit Marcelino for taking the reins of planning, as she already has much on her plate and has been very gracious. I have a couple constructive suggestions for future assemblies: I would suggest questioning the tradition of having the Vice-Moderator plan Convention. Coordinating the details of a national event may be neither that individual s gift nor desire, though they may be well-suited to strategic planning and visionary thinking, or something else altogether, and can serve in other ways. I would suggest ensuring that the individual planning Convention actually be located in the city in which the Convention is to be held. There are too many unknowns and questions at play when planning from afar. This year, being able to be on-site at the University of Guelph, scoping out location, etc., has proven to be very important in planning Convention and has made for a very complicated process, as I do not live in Guelph. Earlier on this year I realized that continuing on as Moderator of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada is not the right path for me, so I am stepping down. I want to thank everyone on the board for their kindness, hard work and willingness to contribute to the Disciples in Canada. All the best, Kaeli Sweigard Convention Docket 27

28 Regional Minister s Report Business Item 18-04C Dear Friends in Christ, When I last wrote a report for our All Canada Convention, I had only been your Regional Minister for less than two months! So much has happened in these past two years. I thank you for the opportunity to serve you and Christ s church in this capacity. It has been an awesome and humbling experience. Canadian Disciples are strong, resilient, filled with love and compassion, and area prayerful and faithful people. The road has not always been clearly marked ahead of us but when we take these brief moments to look back, we see that God has been our faithful companion all the way. Here are a few of the highlights from the past two years: - The addition of three new church plants / congregations in formation: Parole de Vie/Word of Life in Joliette, Quebec, Somos Uno in Montreal, Quebec, and Brush With the Spirit in Calgary, Alberta - Engaging conversation in all three Areas around transforming our organizations away from business as usual towards deep spirituality, true community, and a passion for justice - One ordination and three candidates under care of the Committee on Ministry - Two vigorous camping programs where 100s of children/youth encounter God in nature - Three NBA XPlore residents (Nadine Compton, Kaeli Sweigard, Tim Campbell) - Reinvigorating work in Quebec where pastors/leaders are working to support one other - Two missionaries sent to Morocco through Global Ministries, Fritz-Gerald Joseph and Emmanuelle Joseph - Closing of the visible ministry of Guelph Christian Church in Guelph, Ontario with gratitude and hope for the future - A new Young Adult initiative in the Maritimes bringing together young adults to explore spirituality, faith, and life - Disciples representatives on all committees and Governing Board of the Canadian Council of Churches - Successful and enthusiastic full communion talks with the United Church of Canada - A number of congregations across Canada discerning their future and making positive changes in their governance and processes to refocus on ministry We have come a long way in a few short years! Not all of our movement has been positive or lifegiving. We have had to have some hard conversations across our life together about what it means to be the church for today. We have lost some good friends and fellow travelers. We have struggled with finances, commitment, and purpose at times. And yet, despite the hard times, we have laughed, shared our stories, prayed for one another, and tried again. It is not an easy time to be the church in 2018 in Canada. We live in an increasingly secular, individualistic, commercialized society. And what we have to offer is so very different than what the 2018 Convention Docket 28

29 powers that be say everyone needs. It has been and will continue to be an uphill battle to do the work we are called to do, and be the people God calls us to be. We are a people of profound faith. I see it across the country, from small house churches to urban traditional congregations. We have our hearts set on the gospel. We are tenacious and ready to head out again and again in order to live that love of God every day, in every way we can. Each of us is gifted differently but specifically for this time and the needs we encounter. When we are at our best, we are light in a world of shadow, and salt in a world that is bland and homogenized. Yet, my friends, we are so often lead by fear instead of that profound and powerful love that we know rules the universe! We are afraid of change. Afraid of new ideas. Afraid that we don t have enough. Afraid of dying. It is far past the time that we let go of that fear ONCE AND FOR ALL and live passionately, radically, and whole-heartedly as LOVE. Let us commit, individually and collectively, to put away the ideas of scarcity that hold us back from grabbing hold of God s hand and being God s partner in this re-creation! Let us commit, individually and collectively, to ending the excuses that keep us from being generous with one another and the world! Let us commit, finally and completely, to focus on what it means to be children of God beloved, free, redeemed, fashioned with a purpose so that all may know the love of God and the abundant life that is promised to all. Friends, now is the time to shed the cocoons of whatever has been keeping us from truly being the church. Now is the time to put aside fear and worry, and focus ourselves on strengthening our spiritual muscles for the work ahead. Now is the time to live the messages we teach in worship. This is the day that God has made! It is time for us to be the love, justice, wholeness, peace, and unity that are the hallmarks of God s world! We have work to do not for our own survival but so that those who are crying out for justice, healing, inclusion, peace, and love, may finally be answered. My prayer always for you is this: that you may know in your heart of hearts that you are a beloved child of God, fashioned out of love to be love in the world. May you know that God calls you to a greater purpose, to take your belovedness and expand it so that there is no one in your circle, your community, your world that doubts they too are beloved. May you give up being afraid and claim your identity as God s beloved. Finally free from what shackles you. May you build each other up, the beloved community, and in so doing, build God s world where there is space and love enough for all. May God bless your struggle, your growth, and your triumphs as you grow in Divine love. Peace be with you, Jen 2018 Convention Docket 29

30 Report of the Nominating Committee Business Item 18-04D At the 2018 Annual General Meeting of the Canadian Regional Assembly (Guelph, ON), the following nominees have agreed to let their name stand for election as Members of the Board of Directors for 1 year. If elected, after 1 year, members can continue to serve for 4 years and can also be re-elected for another 4 years. The Treasurer and Secretary may serve more than two 4-year terms. The Vice-Moderator, Moderator, and Past Moderator may serve 2 years at each position. Board Composition: Gender: 0 non-binary people (NB), 7 women (W), 6 men (M) Ethnicity: 3 people of colour (POC), 1 Indigenous person (I), 8 white people (WH), and 2 Indigenous & white people (I & WH) Age: 0 young adults (YA), 13 adults 36+ (A) 1) Leadership: 7 lay people (L), 6 clergy (C) 2) Location: 3 (+1 appointed) from the West (WE), 2 (+2 appointed) from the Central Area (CE), 3 (+2 appointed) from the Maritimes (MAR) = vacant position to be filled ELECTED BOARD MEMBERS NOMINEE POSITION TERM 1 TERM 2 Debbie Weatherhead (West Gore) Treasurer (Interim) Debbie Weatherhead (West Gore) Maritime Area Rep & Past Moderator Peter Fountain (Milton) Maritime Area Rep Dr. Darlene Brewer (Wyndholme) Maritime Area Rep & Secretary Rev. Ann Stainton (Hillcrest) Central Area Rep & Moderator Hubert Reece (Hillcrest) Central Area Rep Central Area Rep Roy Dungca (Broadway) Western Area Rep & Vice Moderator Joel Escalante (Broadway) Western Area Rep Rev. Danah Cox Western Area Rep Convention Docket 30

31 APPOINTED (NON-ELECTED) BOARD MEMBERS The following people are not elected by the Convention. They are appointed or elected by the bodies that they represent. They are ex-officio members of the Board with Vote. NAME Rev. Dr. Jennifer Garbin (Sugarbush) Shirley Francis (Milton) Brenda Anger (Winger) Rev. Rachel Frey (McKernan) Rev. Russell Prime (Milton &Summerville) POSITION Regional Minister Maritime Area President Ontario Assembly President (Interim) Western Christian Fellowship President Youth and Young Adult Coordinator Require election by the 2018 Annual General Meeting Officers: Elected at the Annual General Meeting at the Convention Moderator (two year term): Ann Stainton Vice-moderator (two year term from West): Roy Dungca Secretary: Darlene Brewer Treasurer: Debbie Weatherhead (interim) (Hillcrest) (Broadway) (Wyndholme) (West Gore) Nominating Committee: Elected at the Annual General Meeting at the Convention serves to following Convention (2020) Chair should be from Convention Area West: Maritime Area: Central Area: Western Area: For Information only: Standing Committees are elected by the Board of Directors for a two year term, not limited to number of terms. Each Committee is chaired by a member of the Board of Directors. Finance: Ministry: Staff Relations: Peter Fountain May God bless all those who faithfully serve our church in ordinary and extraordinary ways! Respectfully submitted, Awit Marcelino (Chair) & Wendelin Galatianos (Committee Members: Gerald Clarke, Rev Angus MacDonald, Elaine Lyons, Wendelin Galatianos, Jennifer Watts, Roy Dungca) 2018 Convention Docket 31

32 Committee on Ministry Report Business Item 16-04E The Committee on Ministry (CoM) exists to provide oversight and support for those seeking ordination or commissioned lay leaders here in Canada. Committee on Ministry Members Ed Stover (Chair) - WCF Neil Bergman - Maritimes Hubert Reece - Central Thank you to Janet Anstead for filling in in what was to be a temporary position and ended up being much more! Much thanks to RM Jen Garbin for all her assistance (and all her hard work) CoM wouldn t be running as it does without your input and efforts, and I appreciate it so very much! Work around Standing Issues: Standing Forms Compiled by Regional Office and reviewed by CoM (Ed) learned new program to input forms for General CoM Regional Standing Requests Request for Transfer of Standing 1 Removal of Standing 2 Addition of Standing 1 Standing in Region Licensed Ministerial Student (one-year provisional standing) Awit Marcelino, Associate Pastor at Sugarbush Christian Church Justin Schwartz, Internship program at Hillcrest Christian Church Ordination Ann Stainton (ordained on June 17, 2017) Candidate for Ordination Ben Kidd Darlene Brewer Transfer of Ordination Harold Boomhower New Developments: many thanks to the care teams that are in place for two of our candidates (Darlene B and Ben K). The CoM is working hard to put in care teams to support the work and discernment of candidates as they come into the final stages of their journey. This is a new process for us, but it helps us get to know candidates while providing an opportunity to walk alongside more intentionally. Commissioned Missionaries: Emmanuella Loccident and Fritz-Gerald Joseph have been commissioned by Global Ministries of Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in USA and Canada as missionaries to Morocco - Emmanuella as intern and Fritz-Gerald as volunteer Convention Docket 32

33 Boundary and Anti-Racism Training Regional Board of Directors approved policy requiring those seeking standing in the Christian Church (Disciples) in Canada [CCDC] have Boundary Training and Anti-Racism Training every 3 years Looking into facilitators in local areas Training session to be held prior to Regional Assembly 2018 Disciples History & Polity Courses Looking into courses offered in French or Creole for QC French & Haitian pastors We continue to look forward to the future, as we keep building up the Canadian church through supporting those who are called to lead, and welcoming those who seek to be together at the table. Respectfully submitted, Ed Stover Chair, Committee on Ministry Christian Church (Disciples) in Canada Anti-Oppression Training & Boundary Training Policy This policy establishes the requirement for all clergy and laypersons seeking standing in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada [CCDCC] to complete Anti-Oppression Training and Boundary Training every three (3) years. Anti-Oppression Training The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) remains vigilant and faithful in pursuing God s call to reconciliation, breaking down the dividing walls that separate us from one another and God and building up God s realm on earth. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada envisions the church to be a place where brothers and sisters of all races, languages, and cultures will grow towards God s glorious realm, where all have a place at the table and none shall be turned away. Leaders must be current in understanding what oppression is, how it is manifested within the church, and what steps must be taken to eradicate oppression in our Regional Church and in our congregations. Leaders must also be aware of how victims of oppression might be assisted. Boundary Training Of all human groups, the church should be the most comforting for the hurting. After all, we are called by God to be welcoming, caring and nurturing. Even while practicing within the Ministerial Code of Ethics, ministers face many boundary issues, which may be personal, theological, ethical, family, or spiritual. Perhaps more than other 2018 Convention Docket 33

34 professions, religious leaders must have a clear understanding of boundaries, and how they are defined and maintained when challenged by the expectations of others. Relationship is crucial to the work of the Ministry and healthy relationships require boundaries. It is the desire of the CCDCC that all leaders explore the meaning and practice of healthy boundaries in the context of ministry. Requirements 1. All persons with standing, or seeking standing, in the CCDCC are required to have Anti- Oppression and Boundary trainings every three (3) years. 2. Clergy (retired or otherwise) who provide occasional, interim, or other ministries in the CCDCC are required to have Anti-Oppression and Boundary trainings. 3. Students and others in care of the Committee on Ministry, who are seeking ordination or standing, are required to take Anti-Oppression and Boundary trainings prior to being licensed or ordained. 4. Those seeking standing in the CCDCC will be required to complete Anti-Oppression and Boundary trainings within six (6) months of being granted standing in the Region. 5. Anti-Oppression and Boundary trainings will be reported on Annual Standing forms. 6. The CCDCC will endeavour to make these training opportunities available in all Areas of the Region on a regular basis, preferably by organizing local courses with in-house facilitators. Our aim is to make training as widely available as possible, as well as to provide advanced training where possible. 7. The Committee on Ministry, through the Regional Board, may approve alternative training opportunities on an as-needed basis. 8. Funding for Anti-Oppression and Boundaries trainings will be paid for by the Region where possible, but such training may also be funded as continuing education under the College of Churches of Christ in Canada (which will cover up to 50% of continuing education) 2018 Convention Docket 34

35 Western Christian Fellowship Report Business Item 18-04F Over the past few years, the Western Christian Fellowship has struggled in several areas. The retirement of Stuart Fraser five years ago continues to be felt throughout the area, and the loss of his pastoral leadership affects our ministries. In addition, we continue to experience the loss of several congregations - and the leadership of individuals within those congregations. This past year, the WCF continues has finally worked through our long-neglected financial records, handed over em masse when the former treasurer resigned. when First Christian Church Edmonton withdrew from the Disciples, and we did not have anyone acting as treasurer until 2017, when Ed Stover stepped up. After getting our finances back in order, we realized (1) that we had some moneys available, and (2) that the money is not doing any good for the Reign of God in a stagnant bank account. We are still needing to discern what moneys are earmarked for specific projects, and once we know that, we intend to set up a system to support ministries of the WCF congregations. We still need to discern a new leadership structure as the current model is not sustainable, nor does it meet the pastoral, spiritual, and relational needs of the congregations, a hole which has been felt since Stuart Fraser's departure. Yet despite the challenges the WCF faces, God's work continues. And people's lives continue to be touched by the varied ministries throughout Western Canada. Here are some highlights: Broadway Disciples United Church (Winnipeg, MB) welcomed Rev. Noel A. Suministrado as their new pastor. Rev. Suministrado highlights some of what has transpired since he assumed the charge: The aging church boiler and was replaced in November. It was a huge undertaking considering that the cost of the replacement and installation was quite costly. By early December it was working that made us survive the harsh Manitoba winter. BDUC representatives were diligent in attending the Winnipeg Presbytery meetings, and our participation recognized. Youth Work the Youth has been active in Praise Band, and they have attended the YARG (Young Adults Recreational Group) Night which was a program of the Winnipeg Presbytery. Come 2018, they are invited to a more greater participation in and out of our church. United Church of Canada News - Being the first of its kind, BDUC s undertaking for the Mutuality of Recognition of Ministries got featured in UCC News, dated November 10, Here is the feature article online: Election to the General Council s RC-UCC Dialogue I made myself available for nomination to the Roman Catholic- UCC Dialogue, and in November 2017 and was chosen to be one of the among the six to represent the United Church of Canada in this UCC General Council program Convention Docket 35

36 Bible Study Groups - The current three bible study groups have fairly good attendance, and good food afterwards, as Filipinos are fond of eating! Ecumenical Gatherings I was involved in several ecumenical gatherings having been invited to the Inter-Faith Meetings in Asper Jewish Center, The Osborne Village Clergy Meetings with the Anglicans and Roman Catholic members and was part of the Winnipeg City-Wide Celebration of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity held in January Multi-Cultural Ministry started in April 2018, this is part of the 25% work for the Winnipeg Presbytery. Rev. Dr. Jen Garbin made her pastoral visit last April and was our Sunday preacher that week. We had loads of fun and fellowship during her stay. We intend to be more active in the programs coming from the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). With vision of looking forward, and working together in God s service, this becomes a calling for each and everyone of us; to God be the glory! Maraming salamat po! (Noel A. Suministrado) Westlock Community Church of Christ (Westlock, AB) is still holding meetings in a little room of the Westlock Memorial Hall. We meet every Sunday morning at 11:00 a.m. Our attendance ranges from in the teens to the thirties, depending on how many are working shifts, traveling, or other activities taking place. We don t have a regular pastor, so every Sunday we have a different speaker to bring a gospel message. In June we held an outdoor baptism in a local river for a teenage member. Also, in June this same girl graduated from High School and will be going on a missions trip to Mexico in August. (Karen Radke) McKernan Christian Church (Edmonton, AB) is still alive and well. We all have hills and valleys, and we are in a valley right now, but looking forward to what God is doing and going to do in and with us! We lost a number of students to jobs in other places than Edmonton, as well as a couple of seniors who passed away this past year. Last year in July, and again this year, we have chosen to have no Sunday services in our building; instead, we are going out into the community/neighbourhood and doing ministry outside our walls. Each week we will be doing things like cleaning a local park, helping at another church, handing out flyers about our church, and giving out treat bags to the needy on Whyte Ave and area, where many homeless people call home. We had a good turnout last year, and hope to this year as well. "Reaching Out" to "Serve God by Serving Others" - inside or outside our church building, we hope to reach people with the love of Jesus, showing them God's love in a practical way. We have an annual "Hanging of the Greens" service to introduce Advent, and special Advent and Lenten services. We have other groups using our facility, which helps financially but also allows people to be in our building, know it's there, etc. Please keep us in your prayers - our smaller church serves a purpose in our area and I am glad we are able to be that place for those who need us and need the Lord. (Rev. Ed Stover) Campbell Stone United Church (Calgary, AB) Over this past year we were saddened at the passing of several key members of Campbell-Stone, as well as many from our extended family. And while this was difficult, our congregation truly rallied around each other in support, as collectively we continue to take solace in our faith, knowing what God has promised. Our giving and support to those in need has not only come in the form of pastoral relations, nor did it end within our doors, as over this past year our special collections for several missions in Calgary have exceeded all 2018 Convention Docket 36

37 expectations. Because of these reasons and more, we feel to still be very much aligned with the Spirit. This is not meant to paint an overly rosy picture, as the reality is also that, given our waning numbers, like many other churches we are trending toward decline with our monies, and Sunday attendance. The good news is that the facts are not all bad, as CSUC truly does have so many advantages that are both practical and etherial. Better still, we are not running from the problem. For, beyond merely taking stock in the ways we are advantaged, we have examined the hard truths we face in a manner that has brought clarity as to what is most important to us as a faith community. So, going forward this year, using both traditional and new methods, we will seek to focus on the practices that feed, foster and build our Beloved Community into being what God intends. We do this with a strange mix of anticipation, trepidation, excitement, fatigue, and joy. But perhaps more than anything we do this with our hearts open to each other and to how God might lead us. So in closing, we wish to send our warmest regards to all of our brothers and sisters in Christ, and God willing, (as in all things), Campbell-Stone will see you at the next D.O.C. all Canada convention. (Rev. Danah Cox) Brush with the Spirit (Calgary, AB) While Brush with the Spirit in, in many ways, an "atypical" new church plant, we are not so much trying to introduce a new church concept as reclaiming a part of our tradition that fueled the spread of Christianity for over a millennium. And while we won t take the exact same tack as our forebears, we are seeking to blend new technologies with enduring traditions in a way that earnestly meet secular folk where they are without sacrificing our connection to Christ. We all know that this is a very difficult strait to navigate faithfully, but we believe we have found a way. BWTS is more a collection of workshops, events and activities. We meet for worship, do outreach and mission, and create content for other churches to use. And while is hard to speak to nuanced aspects of our approach in this format, our basic idea is to first introduce the ancient Greek and Roman philosophical concept that recognized an external force that all folks drew from when deeply engaged in creative processes. Of course as a minister I would call this external force as the most potent evangelical tool we have available to us, namely the Holy Spirit. But I have found that using this term as one of several ancient philosophical traditions has a way of side stepping many folks initial bias against Christian descriptors. Because ultimately it is not about naming it, it is all about claiming it! This is why BWTS uses creative activities to first help all people, (not just artists ) experience the powerful feeling of tapping into a source outside of themselves. (Again, this feeling is catalogued in countless books connecting spirituality and creativity.) Then, by helping people of diverse backgrounds more consciously consider this connection, BWTS provides a platform for seekers of all stripes to come together to explore tangible means to inwardly expand their spirituality, and authentically build community around this shared experience. Our hope is by introducing the Holy Spirits concept BWTS can serve as an incubator for folks to begin organically considering Christ, and thus other churches as well. We realize this report left out much specificity, but we very much invite you to visit our website, brushwiththespirit.com, for a better understanding of what we are up to, as well as access to multiple unique worship, faith formation, and outreach resources that are available to all D.O.C. churches. Comments, questions, and yes even critiques are welcome. We hope you all have 2018 Convention Docket 37

38 had a wonderful week at the D.O.C. All Canada Convention, and we very much look forward to seeing you at the next one. Q Faith Community (Calgary, AB) no report available at time of printing. Alberta Bible College (Calgary, AB) began among Disciples churches in the western Canada in 1932 for the purpose of providing training for ministry. Though history has seen separations between various groups of our churches, ABC remain committed that any of our young people seeking an undergraduate Christian education grounded in the study of Scripture can find it. Stan Helton, a Disciple Minister, has been the president of ABC since July In that time, the college has grown every year. In 2015 there were 51 total students and today there are 118. The college has two primary programs. The College program is for typical college students who meet for classes throughout the week. The College offers two basic degree outcomes: the Bachelor of Christian Studies or the Bachelor of Christian Ministry. Our students are involved in a variety of ministries throughout the academic years, including ministry to children, to people with special needs, and to various ethnic ministry including indigenous people. Over the last three years, the college has witnessed an increase in the number of older students who have returned to college to prepare for ministry and ministry-related careers. Out student body continues to grow in diversity, both in term of ethnic diversity, as well as coming from various denominations. Another primary program of ABC is called Professional Adult Christian Education or simply PACE. PACE is a non-traditional program for adult learners. The program allows mature students to complete their education while they carry on with life. PACE students are generally over 25 years old and are already involved in ministry but want to hone their skills as they continue their work. PACE currently offer four major tracks of study: Leadership, Pastoral Counseling, Non-Profit Leadership, and Biblical Studies. The Non-Profit track began in June with its first class, The Effective Organization. For more information about Alberta Bible College, please inquiries@abccampus.ca or go to our website: (Rev. Dr. Stan Helton) Respectfully submitted, Rachel Frey, Moderator Western Christian Fellowship 2018 Convention Docket 38

39 Central Area Report Business Item 16-04G My report covers the Ontario portion of the Central area as set out by All Canada. I am hoping that someone writes a report for the Quebec portion of Central. To start off Ontario is now down to 5 churches as Guelph officially notified us and my husband and I attended their last service that was led by Rev Dr Jen Garbin. The remaining churches are- Hillcrest, Mapleton, St Thomas, Sugarbush,and Winger. Hillcrest is undergoing some major restoration and updating, St Thomas had struggles in the pastoral search but have now obtain a pastor, Sugarbush now has leadership from Awit Marcelino and I have truly enjoyed her encouragement. Our other congregations are holding their own, but as has been reported in other years many are suffering from aging congregations and buildings. People to take on leadership roles is becoming a grave issue in many organisations and the church is no different. This brings me to the last part of my report. In Ontario this year the leadership of the OACC has fallen apart. As we lost a church two years ago that was one of the very active participants in leadership, upon their leaving four positions on the board became empty, the remaining leadership board kept things going and these open positions were temporarily covered. But in early 2018 after the person who was temporarily covering gave notice in 2017 handed in all the financials and our board chair resigned, our leadership board dropped from 12 to 6 and of the six/ three actively show up. Of the three there are two of us who have put in 15 years or more and were going to take a breather off the Leadership board. No one has stepped forward to this day and offered to take on one of these roles. We are in the midst of trying to re-define the OACC, our leadership set-up, our program, our camping program and even our camp property is part of the discussion. Disciples in Ontario at one time was 30 churches strong but decisions over the years have made many leave or with loss of congregation members close up. With Pastors salaries and aging buildings taking up a large part of our churches budgets there is not enough left over to give to area and region for the work they have to do. I feel our loss of programs around missionaries and outreach has been pared down to special envelopes two times a years and nothing else. What is there to be excited for? Questions as area and region we need to be asking ourselves: What have or do we do best? What is eating up our monies that we can pare down? What is taking up our time (and not effectively)? Can these two work together (area and region) and pare down some of the double duties? And/or Can we do church?-leadership? area/region? BETTER? I have kept my favourite scripture close to mind since the first of the year I can do all things through CHRIST which strengthens me. Phil 4:13 NKJV Blessings, Brenda Anger, Acting President/treasurer 2018 Convention Docket 39

40 Quebec Update Over the past two years, the Quebec area, like all of our other areas, has experienced ups and downs. We have four congregations in Quebec: two Haitian, one Congolese, and one Hispanic. Of the two Haitian congregations, one has been with us for over 13 years and the second for close to 8. We were pleased to welcome the other two congregations as new church plants in the last biennium. In addition, we commissioned Fritz and Emmanuela Joseph (members of House of Prayer) as missionaries to Morocco through Global Ministries. Two amazing things happened this past year: a call for help with purchasing a piano went out from our Mahanaim congregation. Within a few weeks, enough money to pay for the piano came in! Now they have even greater music in their worship, and the beginning of the instruments they wish to purchase (or have donated) for a music school for at risk children in the area. Second, the Milton Christian Church generously offered to assist Maritimers to attend the All Canada Convention this year, but no one needed the assistance. A call was put in to ask if they would consider extending their offer to the Quebec churches...and they did! Because of the generous support of the Milton congregation, we have six individuals coming to this Assembly! Thanks be to God for open hearts and minds that see the value of supporting one another in our mutual ministry! The situation in Quebec when it comes to starting or maintaining a congregation is unlike anywhere else in Canada. There are severe restrictions for charities and especially churches which make finding space, growing, getting licensed, etc., very difficult. Couple that with our own current regional structure that does not have active inclusion in the Central area governance for our Quebec congregations, AND a distinct language difference (French is the language of business and worship), our Quebec congregations regularly feel isolated from the rest of the denomination. As Regional Minister, I am a regular visitor to these congregations, but even I cannot be there or connect with them as often as we all could, if we made it a priority to be more cognizant of our brothers and sisters in Quebec. Prayers are important and vital, and actions speak volumes! Take time to visit or be in touch with our Francophone congregations! When a call comes out to support them in a specific way (helping to buy a piano, help for travel, etc), please respond. Our Quebec congregations are proud to be part of the Disciples of Christ and are working tirelessly, most with leadership that is unpaid, to bring the gospel to the people of Quebec. I am excited to see the new developments in the province of Quebec despite the difficult climate for religious institutions. Blessings to our pastors and leaders who continue to struggle in faith so that the Gospel of Jesus Christ might reach others. Respectfully submitted, Jen Garbin 2018 Convention Docket 40

41 Maritime Area Report Business Item 16-04H The Maritime Disciple Board meets twice a year, the last on April 13/ , at Summerville Church. At this meeting the Board accepted, with regret, Debbie Thibault's resignation as President due to ill health and Vice President, Shirley Francis, stepped into the President position. Our prayers and thoughts are with Debbie and we wish her a speedy recovery. The Maritime Area is contemplating hiring a consultant to assist the Area in assessing, planning and evaluating ministries in the Area and the organization of the Area itself. We anticipate this will mesh well with the Regional vision of Building a Beloved Community. Our churches continue to thrive. Wyndholme Christian Church The congregation still meets at the Fairbanks Centre in Dartmouth, although a new committee has been struck to find a new location. This committee brought forward a proposal to pursue negotiations on a permanent rental space on Portland Street, Dartmouth. The church is very active, with outreach projects that support the Madagascar School Project, The Elizabeth Fry Centre, Margaret House and the College of Christian Churches. West Gore Disciple Church West Gore Church is very active in their out-reach programs such as Meals-to-Go serving approximately 70 people twice a month, and monthly worship at Mitchell's Rest Home. West Gore is also involved in many ecumenical activities and are actively seeking ways of working with Rawdon Hill United Church to expand ministry to our communities. As Rev Gus MacDonald plans for retirement within the year, the West Gore congregation is working on a succession plan, which may also involve the Rawdon Hills United Church. Rev Gus has been a wonderful leader and pastoral caregiver for the whole community. Summerville Christian Church This church continues to be a very active church with a number of events throughout the year, including hosting the MDB Annual Meeting on April 13/14, a Good Friday Service, a pot luck supper and auction. A July strawberry supper, a fall luncheon and a musical event are some of the plans for the year ahead. Milton Christian Church Milton congregation is very much enjoying the new church and all the modern conveniences that it provides for worship services and hosted events. A new program, called Soul Food To Go, provides prepared soups, chowders, baked beans and lasagna, which are donated and placed in freezers in various locations so that clergy in the area have access to this food to give out where there is a need. Milton hosted a well-attended get-together for Maritime Area Disciples in June. It was a wonderful afternoon of fellowship, entertainment and, of course, lots of good food Convention Docket 41

42 All People's Church All People's Church work remains focused on residents of the Geneva Villa in Charlottetown, PEI. A church service is held once a week and Rev Scott MacIsaac attempts to interweave elements from both Roman Catholic and Protestant traditions including weekly celebrations of the Lords supper. Youth work through NSCYF and Johnston Christian Park camping program continues to be a strong ministry in the Maritime Area. Numbers of campers had fallen over the past few years but there was a 30% increase in 2017 and registrations appear to remain strong for the 2018 camping season. Disciples in the Maritimes will gather for the annual Disciplefest on August 1st to 5th. The theme is Love Serve. It is unfortunate that there is an overlap with the Regional Assembly but we pray both events will be successful. The CWF have set the date of May 4 th for their Quiche luncheon. We have catered for two receptions and one funeral and reception. We are blessed to be able to continue this service and our people are very appreciative. Milton and Sumerville Churches are hosting the Disciples Gathering in Milton on June 2/18. We do hope to see all of our Disciple Families gather in Milton to enjoy the activities planned for the day. It's a joy and a blessing to plan a social event for our church families. The next meeting of the Maritime Board will be held on October 20th at Milton. Please come to this Board Meeting to represent your position and your church. We have some very important decisions to make concerning our Maritime Board and the Nova Scotia Christian Fellowship Group. We will be spending the day on three very important agenda items requested at our April meeting. Item 1 - The future of the Maritime Disciple's Board Item 2 - The future standing or being of the Nova Scotia Christian Youth Fellowship. Item 3 - If the MDB and NSCYF are to remain, with what format or model do we move forward. Our Committees, what change do we envision for them in our future plans. The meeting of October 20th should be devoted to these three items to keep us growing and moving forward to a positive and bright future to enable us to serve God. In order to devote the time that will be required for the above agenda, I would like the chairs of the committees and all the Board Reps to forward their reports to Pattie by September 27th, We will then prepare the docket for the meeting in advance so you will have time to review this material. Yours in Christ, Shirley Francis, President Maritime Disciple Board Convention Docket 42

43 Youth & Young Adult Ministries Business Item 18-04I Warmest Greetings in Christ! YOUTH MINISTRY WHERE ARE WE IN CANADA? The Nova Scotia CYF program is under review in the Maritime Area, and I think it is a good time for us to consider convening a national working group to discuss where we are with youth ministry and where we would like to go in the coming years. Are there connections with others (in the Restoration Movement and beyond) that we should be exploring? What might encourage more youth and young adult related work in our congregations and ministries? How healthy are our camping ministries and what challenges do they face? We could do this by telephone or internet chat. Please let me know if you would be interested in joining this discussion. INTERGENERATIONAL MINISTRY Some of the new directions of ministry are to have intergenerational events, especially in local congregations. We do this in a sense when our national convention meets, but this may be an area of discussion for where youth ministry is in our Canadian movement. PROPOSAL ICYF or World Convention Youth EVENT: I would like to see if Canada might host a general youth event that would attract youth from the United States and Canada or if we might look at hosting an international event, perhaps in fellowship with the World Convention in My plan is to discuss this with our general youth representatives about holding such a project for our general church perhaps in Canada and perhaps in league with Baptists in Ontario and Quebec or another church organization. Let me know what you think! AREA YOUTH PROGRAMS: Ontario CYF and Nova Scotia CYF held programming over the fall and winter this year. Both organizations are planning events this coming year. Efforts have also been made to reach out to young adults (thanks to Morgan Dunn and Jen Garbin)! May I ask the help of our Regional Minister, national members of the Board of Directors, and others of letting me know what is happening in your part of the country? When are upcoming events for OCYF or NSCYF? When is the next Prairie Young People s Association event in Alberta? Are there other activities that you would like to share? Are their ecumenical or international events that you are aware of from your place? I greatly appreciated the time off over the past several months to work on my thesis. Thank you! Thanks for allowing me to continue to serve in this capacity. Warmest Wishes in Christ, Russell Prime, National Co-ordinator P. O. Box 90, Milton, NS B0T 1P0 (902) russell_prime4@yahoo.com Russell Prime 2018 Convention Docket 43

44 Encounter 2016 Business Item 18-04J Encounter 2018 is an amazing opportunity for youth and young adults to come together to learn more about God, their faith, and the world. This year, Encounter will be held at the Disciples Conference Grounds (DCG) in Haldimand, Ontario. Continuing with the past Encounter, the discussions and activities will focus around social justice issues and our responsibility as people of faith to respond to them. After a week at DCG, the group will join adults at the 2018 All-Canada Convention in Guelph, Ontario for workshops, worship services, and activities. The registration fee has been kept to $ as in prior years in order to minimize costs for those travelling from other provinces and to make it more affordable for all youth and young adults to attend. This fee includes all meals, activities and transportation during Encounter and the All- Canada Convention. Our team includes an enthusiastic pastor and strong lay leaders: Russell Prime, Tina Stavinga, Sarah Leitch, Olivia Bryan Updegrove, Sarah Zuniga, Lisa Denton, Carolee Meintzer and Andrew Gillette. We appreciate and accept their gifts, skills, energy, and time that they ve committed for our youth and young adults at Encounter Last, but not least, we thank individuals, churches, and areas for their generosity and support! Thank you for investing in our youth and young adults, and in our church! Drew Gillette, Encounter 2018 Co-Director 2018 Convention Docket 44

45 College of Churches of Christ in Canada Business Item 18-05A MINUTES OF MAY 2, th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (For Approval at 2018 Annual General Meeting) College of Churches of Christ in Canada Thornhill Country Club, Ontario Present: Guests: Proxies Received: Robert Steffer, President Chantelle Scruggs, Secretary Ann Clarke, Treasurer Ann Stainton Joe Ong Tom Fountain Jennifer Garbin Jean MacArthur Ian MacArthur Alice Porter Ron Dakin Lynda Zavitz Justin Schwartz Kevin McDonald Ray Cuthbert John Dick Peter Fountain Janet Fountain Stuart Fraser Robert Leland Stan Litke 1. Welcome, Call to Order President Robert Steffer called the meeting to order at 11:56am, with apologies for the late start. 2. OpeningDevotional and Prayer, Alice Porter 3. Moment of Silence For Bruce Carruthers and Tom Rutherford. The President shared tributes for Bruce and Tom, followed by a prayer. 4. Adoption of Agenda MOVED by Tom Fountain, SECONDED by Jean MacArthur and AGREED to approve the agenda. 5. Minutes Annual General Meeting May 3, Convention Docket 45

46 MOVED by Tom Fountain, SECONDED by Lynda Zavitz and AGREED to approve the minutes. Management Committee September 8, 2016 May 2, 2017 Motions: o to receive Tom Fountain s resignation from the Board of Managers, with regret. He will stay on as a member. o to support Awit Marcelino and Darlene Brewer as requested to attend General Assembly o that the Executive review the application for Justin Schwartz to become a Student of the College further, with clarification of fourth year fees and further comment from the Committee on Ministry. o to proceed with Awit Marcelino s internship for one year, beginning September 1, 2017, to be reviewed at the end of the year. MOVED by Ron Dakin, SECONDED by Jean MacArthur and AGREED to approve the reports of the Management Committee. 6. Reports of President, Secretary, Treasurer(copies attached) The President presented his report.copies of Dr. Steffer s recently published book, Saving Cane Ridge were available for $40. The Secretary presented her report. The Treasurer presented her report and the 2017 Budget. Individual scholarships were rolled into the investment funds years ago, so all one now. MOVED by Ron Dakin, SECONDED by Tom Fountain and AGREED to receive the President's, Secretary's and Treasurer's Reportsand approve the budget (with the addition of the internship amount that was just approved). Kevin McDonald expressed thanks for the assistance for him and his wife Ronda to attend the convention and the retreat afterwards. Thank yous expressed to the Treasurer and Secretary for all their work. 7. Review of Officers and Members From Class of 2017, to become Class of 2020: Remove:Neil Bergman, Robert Leland, and Dianne Rutherford Jon Dick has asked to be removed when his name comes up for re-election, since the Gathering Place is no longer a Disciples church, he s part of the Class of Re-elect: Janet Anstead, Marilyn Hodgson, Janet Fountain, Darlene MacLeod, Stan Litke, Ernie Rolfe, Anne Therieau and Gerald Clarke. New nominations:awit Marcelino (Jean MacArthur confirmed with her), Kevin McDonald (confirmed) Board of Managers: Remove Tom Fountain. Suggestions for VP replacement or replacement for Tom: Lynda Zavitz declined. Executive should research younger members of classes and approach someone and make a proposal for future reference. Ian MacArthur will consider. MOVED by Ian MacArthur, SECONDED by Alice Porter and AGREED to confirm the members and officers of the college Convention Docket 46

47 8. Report of Regional Minister The Regional Minister presented her report. Engaging in full communion talks with the United Church of Canada. Met recently with entire dialogue team. Not union or merger talk, but full communion (see each other fully as a body of Christ). We have a Disciple in the top communication spot in the Canadian Council of Churches now Kaeli Sweigard started today. In addition she ll be travelling to Zambia to attend the Ethics, Ecumenism and Economics summit (week long training), one of ten worldwide participants. She s also our Vice-Moderator. Two new committees upcoming, one on new church and church revitalization, trying to populate. If you are interested in being a part of either, let Jen know. 1:00pm Lunch Break; Grace for the Meal, Joe Ong The members enjoyed a cake to celebrate Ann Stainton on her 2017 graduation from Emmanuel College with the Master of Divinity degree. 9. Conversation with Students Ann Stainton (M.Div, Emmanuel College) Ann presented her report. A highlight this year was the Disciples history course with Dr. Toulouse.She s been a Disciple since birth, but learned so much. Graduated in 2002 with Parish nurse degree. At that time Emmanuel had a program in community and health ministries. That program represented ten of the core courses of the MDiv. Convocation next Thursday at 4pm at Isabel Bader Theatre. Ordination June 17, 2017 at 2pm at Hillcrest Christian Church. Everyone is invited. Awit Marcelino(M.Div student, Emmanuel College) Written report. Sent her regrets for the meeting, as she was volunteering at the Women's Inter-Church Council of Canada. Research Trip Report, Lane Scruggs (ThD student, Wycliffe College) Lane presented his report and expressed thanks to the College. 10. Congregational Intern Support Program Intern Rev. Justin Schwartz with Hillcrest Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) presented his report. Officially started October 1, Justin thanked everyone who came together to set this up the Committee on Ministry, the College, the Regional Minister, Hillcrest Christian Church. Doing this program has allowed him to stay in the area and be involved in the church. This has been a blessing for him and his family. Lots of room for new ministries and help at the church. Everything outlined in the report. He has been a lot more involved with the Disciples in Canada, with the church and camp. Some momentum with new things going on. Went to Stone-Campbell journal conference in Tennessee, started a philosophy group and moderated, and gave two 2018 Convention Docket 47

48 presentations, one was the paper written for the Disciples history class on Alexander Campbell. Justin s previous degrees: BS in Preaching/Bible from Central Christian College of the Bible, Moberly, MO; MDiv in Historical Theology from Lincoln Christian University, Lincoln, IL; MA in General Theology from Lincoln Christian University, Lincoln, IL. Proposal for dissertation has been approved. Starting to write (on Bernard Lonergan and the missional/evangelical impulse in his work). Lonergan was a Roman Catholic Canadian theologian/philosopher/economist who died in the 80s. His critical realism school of thought is theological, but behind it is philosophy. Regis has been doing a lot of work publishing Lonergan s collective works. Question to whom would his studies appeal? Trying to make it more accessible by focusing on mission. Aims at Lonergan scholars but also introducing his work to other people who would not normally be interested. Theology should always beengaging lay-people, not just for scholars. Trying to show how that s integral to everything he s doing. Rooted in a philosophy of learning and understanding. Justin would love to stay in Canada, working in local church and academics. 11. New Business 90 th Anniversary Plans Management Committee will discuss further in October. We want a celebration next spring/summer to recognize the past and celebrate the future. Any suggestions/thoughts? In the past, have done a special celebration dinner at the convention. Talk to convention planners (Kaeli Swaegard) to see what could be incorporated. It will be August 2018 in Guelph. The College Lecturer could perhaps highlight some of the history of the college. Lots of interesting archival material, pictures and past lectures and so on. Prepare some sort of special display. This year we only received funding from five out of the twenty-one Canadian congregations. Think of ways to gain more church awareness and financial support College Lecturer Dr. Lisa Davison, professor of Hebrew Bible at Phillips University, was proposed as the 2018 College Lecturer. The members trust the judgment of the President in this recommendation. He will attempt to firm up this commitment, depending on the convention dates. Keep 90th anniversary celebration in mind for her lecture topics. The theme of the convention is Building Beloved Community. 12. College Member Questions and Comments At the OACC meeting in March, talked about our archives in St. Thomas. Envision giving Ontario churches an opportunity to see what we have, and to support the archives. St. Thomas church has been generous to house them; they have an expense account to work with. The suggestion was made to invite Ontario churches to go see them, perhaps have a big bbq or something. Students should be aware of them. 13. Next Meetings 2018 Convention Docket 48

49 Thursday, October 19, :30am Managers at Thornhill Tuesday, May 8 th, :30 Managers, 11:00 AGM 14. Adjournment and Closing Prayer Meeting adjourned at 2:52pmand Kevin McDonald closed in prayer. Respectfully submitted, C. Scruggs, Secretary COLLEGE OF THE CHURCHES OF CHRIST IN CANADA 90 th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday, May 8, 2018,11.00 a.m. - Thornhill Country Club, Toronto, ON. MINUTES (For Approval at May 14, 2019 Annual General Meeting) Present: Guest: Proxies Received: Robert Steffer, President Elaine Lyons, Secretary Ann Clarke, Treasurer Joe Driskill Ann Stainton Joe Ong Amando Osias Marilyn Hodgson Jennifer Garbin, Regional Minister Justin Schwartz Linda Zavitz Janet Anstead John Dick Ray Cuthbert Stuart Fraser Stan Litke Tom Fountain Scott McIsaac Ron Dakin 15. Welcome, Call to Order President Robert Steffer called the meeting to order at a.m. He welcomed Joe Driskill and Elaine Lyons, new Management Team Member and Secretary. 16. Opening Devotion and Prayer based on Luke 24: Topic: Ascension Day given byjustin Schwartz 2018 Convention Docket 49

50 17. Adoption of Agenda It was MOVED by Ann Clarke, SECONDED by Marilyn Hodgson and AGREED to adopt the Agenda. 18. Minutes a) Annual General Meeting, May 2, 2017 (for approval) It was MOVED by Ann Stainton,SECONDED by Joe Ong and AGREED to approve the minutes. b) Management Team Meetings - May 2, 2017 and October 19, 2017(motion to receive) It was MOVED by Ann Stainton, SECONDED by Joe Ong and AGREED to receive the reports of the Management Team. Lunch Break: Grace for the Meal Joe Ong The President shared with us that he had done a Draft copy entitled Reflections on Turning 90 in connection with the Anniversary activities for the College. 19. Reports of President, Secretary, Treasurer: a) The President presented his report.(a copy is attached to these Minutes.) b) The Secretary presented her report.(a copy is attached to these Minutes.) c) The Treasurer presented her report and the 2019 Budget.(Copies are attached.) It was MOVED by Amando Osias,SECONDED by Marilyn Hodgson and AGREED to receive and approve the President's, Secretary's and Treasurer's Reports. 20. Report of Nominating Committee d) Remove: Tom Fountain, Marie May, and Iris Lambert e) New nominations: Elaine Lyons to the Class 2019 and Joe Driskill to the Class of It was MOVED by Robert Steffer,SECONDED by Joe Ong and AGREED to approve the Nominating Committee Report. 21. Student Updates Kevin McDonald Working toward D.Min. Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, ON. May 1, 2018 April 30, 2019 Awit Marcelino Working toward MDiv, EmmanuelTheological Seminary Internship Sugarbush Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Justin Schwartz Internship Hillcrest Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 22. Other Business All Canada Regional Assembly, Guelph University, Ontario August 2 5, th Anniversary Celebration of the College will take place on Friday, August 3 after the evening Session. Motion: 2018 Convention Docket 50

51 That a Financial Campaign be launched to the members of the College as well as congregations, for them to make a Birthday Gift of $90.00 or more, in honour of the 90 th Birthday of the College, and that monies raised be designated to its permanent funds. It was MOVED by Joe Driskill, SECONDED by Marilyn Hodgson, and AGREED that a letter be sent out to the members of the College as well as former students and other individuals. Ministers & Companions Retreat, August 5-6, 2018 University of Guelph To be led by General Minister and President, Dr. Teri Hord-Owens. Possibility of a Transcript of the College Lecturer s Published Lectures we would make the offer. No official photographerhas been assigned. 23. Next Meetings f) Tuesday, October 11, :00a.m. Management Team g) Tuesday, May 14, p.m. - Annual General Meeting 24. Adjournment: 3.10 p.m. Closing Prayer: Jennifer Garbin. Respectfully submitted,elaine Lyons, Secretary 2018 Convention Docket 51

52 Report of the Pension Plan in Canada Business Item 18-05B The Pension Fund of the Christian Church, administrator of the Retirement Compensation Agreement (Pension Plan) for Canadian Members is pleased to provide this report regarding the growth and development of this program in support of ministers serving in Canada. Trustees for the Plan met in late April to review the financial statements. The net assets are up 8.76%. Investment performance for 2017 was 8.41% compared to 6.4% return the prior year. The reserve position is below the 115% funding requirement (113%); therefore, the plan is not eligible for Special Apportionment for The new Pension Fund website launched during Q There are links to Canada-specific Pension Plan forms and Google translate has been added to allow any potential French speaking members to read information in French. The trustees approved a plan amendment: Section 3.02 Contributions adding (c) Reduced Benefits. Any Dues payment that is less than fourteen percent (14%) of one hundred percent (100%) of the Member s Compensation Base will result in reduced Accrued Age Pension Credits, Refundable Dues, Death Benefits, and Disability Benefits. There is a motion attached for the All Canada meeting to affirm these changes. Todd A. Adams, President Pension Fund of the Christian Church Disciples of Christ, Inc Convention Docket 52

53 Affirmation of the Plan Restatement Business Item Motion: Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Retirement Compensation Agreement for Canadian Members Trust Plan Restatement effective August 25, 2018 be affirmed by the All Canada meeting Canadian Rep to the General Board Business Item 18-05C Since my coming into the role of Regional Minister for the Canadian Region, there has been no Canadian representative (other than myself) on the Canadian Board. Most recently, Kaeli Sweigard was brought on a member at large by the General Board. Although she holds this position, we will needed to name someone from our Region to represent us. We are so pleased that Roy Dungca of Broadway Disciples United Church in Winnipeg, MB, has agreed to take on this responsibility. Roy comes with a great deal of skill and expertise in Board work, and is excited to assume this role for us. Respectfully submitted, Jen Garbin Canadian Council of Churches Business Item 18-05D The Canadian Disciples are founding members of the Canadian Council of Churches and remain active members on the Governing Board and most of the standing commissions and committees. In addition, our Regional Minister attends the biennial meetings of the Canadian Church Leaders who meet to share best practices and experiences around what it means to be church in this postmodern, post-christendom, Canadian context. The following Canadian Disciples are involved with the Canadian Council of Churches at the time of writing: - Jane Pekar, Faith and Life Sciences - Rachel Pellett, Commission on Justice and Peace - Noel Suminstrado, Commission on Faith and Witness (pending) - Ann Stainton, Writing Group - Jen Garbin, Forum on Intercultural Leadership and Learning If individuals are interested in getting involved in the Canadian Council of Churches, please see Jen Garbin who can put you in touch with the leaders of the different committees and commissions. In addition, please visit to learn more about the important work of the Council. Submitted by Jennifer Garbin 2018 Convention Docket 53

54 Church of Christ Development Company Business Item 18-05E 2018 Convention Docket 54

55 2018 Convention Docket 55

56 Time and Place of Next Convention Business Item The congregation of Broadway Disciples United Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba is pleased to extend an invitation to the All Canada Convention / Regional Assembly of Canada to have its 2020 gathering in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Date to be determined Convention Docket 56

57 Courtesy Motion Business Item On behalf of the Convention, we wish to thank the many people who have made this convention possible. It is inspiring to us all when a relatively new congregation, like Sugarbush, takes on the major responsibility of hosting the Regional Assembly. Thank you to Kaeli Sweigard for her work in the early stages of planning and for great communication and advertising. Unfortunately, she was unable to continue, and much gratitude is due Ann Stainton for stepping in to help with finalizing the details. A huge thank you to the Planning Committee led by Awit Marcelino, Iris Lambert, Wendlin Galatianos, and Jennifer Cameron for taking up the responsibility for organizing the convention. Also, many thanks to Jen Garbin for pulling together the myriad details of preparing the docket and for walking with us all through this process. A special thank you is extended to the Milton Christian Church (DoC) who again this year sponsored all of the registrations to make it more affordable for us all to attend. In addition, they funded the expenses of all of the attendees from our Quebec congregations. Thank you to the many people taking part in Assembly activities: College of Churches of Christ Lecturer, Rev. Dr. Lisa Davison; worship leaders, Rev. Dr. Terri Hord Owens, Rev. Dr. Jennifer Garbin; Encounter participants, and interest group presenters, Janet Anstead, Awit Marcellino, Ken Brooker-Langston, Ayana Watkins, Jane Sullivan, Bonnie Osei-Frimpong, Darlene Brewer, Tim Campbell and Olivia Bryan Updegrove; Encounter Directors, Drew Gillette and Sarah Leitch; G.H. Stewart Award Recipients Rev. Neil Bergman, Rev. Dr. Ray Cuthbert, and Minda Osias; and Rev. Dr. Ray Cuthbert, Parliamentarian. A special thank you to all of our musicians who stepped in to support our worship and fellowship time: Encounter participants, David Warrack, Andrew Hyde, Simon Pequegnat, Drew Gillette, and Danielle Kelly. Thank you also to the people of the St Thomas and Mapleton congregations who sewed all of our swag bags for your enjoyment. Thank you to the many volunteers who have given of their time and talents to make the Assembly such a success. Thank you to the staff and coordinators at the University of Guelph for your professionalism and flexibility in meeting our needs for this great meeting. Thank you to those who have served on the Board of Directors as well as those who have generously agreed to serve over the next biennium. Finally, we acknowledge with appreciation those who are in attendance at this 2018 Regional Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. May we return to our congregations refreshed and invigorated with a new commitment to building Beloved Community here in Canada. Thanks be to God for giving us a spirit to gather, grow, and regroup! 2018 Convention Docket 57

58 2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Of The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Incorporated DOCKET Meeting Date : Friday August 3, 2018 Guelph, Ontario 2018 Convention Docket 58

59 2018 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada, Incorporated Friday, August 3, :15 PM University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada AGENDA 3:15 Roll Call Members and Proxies CHRISTIAN CHURCH (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) IN CANADA 3:25 (AGM 18-01) Approval of Minutes of 2016 Annual General Meeting. 3:35 (AGM 18-02) Ratification of Board Actions 3:40 (AGM 18-03) Financial Statements 4:00 (AGM 18-04) Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report 4:10 (AGM 18-05) Election of Financial Reviewers for :15 (AGM 18-06) Election of Officers 4:20 (AGM 18-07) Election of Nominating Committee 4:30 Adjournment Call to Order Moderator Debbie Weatherhead Roll Call of those present All People s Church Broadway Disciples United Church Brush With the Spirit Campbell-Stone United Church Chalice Christian Church Eglise Evangelique Mahanaim De La Rive Nord Jean-Daniel Francois Evangelical Missionary Church of Prayer 2018 Convention Docket 59

60 Hillcrest Christian Church Ben Kidd Joe Ong Mapleton Church of Christ (Disciples) Janet Anstead Shirley Faulds Dory Ong Doug Avram McKernan Christian Church Ed Stover Rachel Frey Milton Christian Church Peter Fountain Janet Fountain Parole de Vie / Word of Life Church Q Faith Community Saint Thomas Christian Church Somos Uno Christian Church Juan Carlos Rodriguez Giuliana Paucar Ceasar Clarke Sugarbush Christian Church Summerville Christian Church West Gore Church of Christ Debbie Weatherhead Winger Church of Christ (Disciples) Rev Kevin McDonald Brenda Anger Wyndholme Christian Church Rev Neil Bergman Grant Anger Dr Darlene Brewer Board Members 2018 Convention Docket 60

61 Approval of the Minutes of the 2017 Meeting AGM Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada Annual General Meeting August 15 th, 2017 Disciples Campground & Conference Centre Call to Order: The Annual General Meeting was called to order at 6:45 pm EDT by the Moderator, Debbie Weatherhead. Opening Prayer: Jen Garbin, Regional Minister, opened the meeting with prayer. Approval of Agenda: It was noted that the Committee on Ministry and the Church of Christ Development Company Reports were not included on the agenda. It is not necessary to elect a Nominating Committee and this should be removed from the agenda. Roll Call: The roll was called by Debbie Thibault. All People's Christian Church (Charlottetown PE) Broadway Disciples United Church (Winnipeg MB) Joel Escalante Campbell Stone United Church (Calgary AB) Chalice Christian Church (Mississauga ON) Eglise Evangelique Baptiste Mahanaim (Montreal QC) Evangelical Missionary Church of Prayer (Laval Des Rapides QC) Guelph Christian Church (Guelph ON) Hillcrest Christian Church (Toronto ON) -Hubert Reece Mapleton Church of Christ (Mapleton ON) -Janet Anstead (Clergy), Sarah Leitch (Treasurer) McKernan Christian Church (Edmonton AB) - Ed Stover (Clergy) Milton Christian Church (Milton NS) -Peter Fountain Q Faith Community (Calgary AB) St. Thomas Christian Church (St. Thomas ON) Sugarbush Christian Church (Guelph ON) -Jen Garbin (Clergy) Summerville Christian Church (Summerville Centre NS) Russell Prime, Clergy WestGore Disciple Church (West Gore NS) - Debbie Weatherhead (Moderator) Westlock Community Church of Christ (Westlock AB) Winger Church of Christ (Wainfleet ON) -Chad Sinclair, Ryan McKeen, Brenda Anger, Kevin McDonald (Clergy) 2018 Convention Docket 61

62 Wyndholme Christian Church (Dartmouth NS) -Debbie Thibault(Secretary) Others -Rachel Frey (Clergy) Approval of Minutes: It was noted that Janet Anstead had seconded the Courtesy Motion and not Peter Fountain as indicated in the minutes. It was moved by Rachel Frey and seconded by Peter Fountain that the minutes of the 2016 Annual General Meeting be approved as amended. Review & Acceptance of Reports: (1) Regional Minister as presented in the docket. It was noted that there is a need to discuss finances, etc. at the Board meeting; there will be 9 people attending upcoming Leadership Training; spoke about a Development Plan for 3-5 years; Somo Uno Christ Church in Montreal; Guelph Christian Church will be closing this fall. Their 150 th Anniversary Service, to be held on September 24 th, will be their last and decommissioning service and Chalice Christian Church has lost its charitable status because of non-filing. (2) Moderator s Report as presented in the docket. Jen Garbin expressed appreciation and thanks to Debbie Weatherhead for her support, grace and strength in this position. (3) Vice-Moderator s Report as presented in the docket. Kaeli Sweigard sent her regrets. The members were asked to keep Kaelie in prayer as she recovers from a concussion. It was noted that the theme for next year s All Canada Convention is: Beloved Community. (4) Area Presidents Reports as presented in the docket. Maritime Area Report - Peter Fountain corrected the report for Milton Christian Church. It is the Food, Fun & Fellowship group that provided an evening of food and not the Milton s Café. Central Area Church of Christ Development Company should have been added. Western Area The Pastor for the Broadway Disciples United Church will be arriving August 21 st. (5) Staff Relations Committee Report Peter Fountain reported that an evaluative survey had been carried out but there was not tremendous response in terms of numbers. However; of those received, there was tremendous support for Jen Garbin in her role as Regional Minister. (6) Youth Coordinator Russell Prime There was money raised by Mapleton for the Christmas calendar. There are lots of challenges with Youth Ministry but there are also lots of possibilities which will, hopefully, be reflected in the Development Plan. There are still a fair number of young people whom the church is connecting with mostly 2018 Convention Docket 62

63 through camping programs. The church has really good volunteers who work with our youth. (7) College of Churches of Christ Jen Garbin suggested that Lay People send in requests for support to run bible studies, programs, etc. There is funding available and the Board should be encouraging congregations to make requests of the College. (8) Women s Interchurch Council as presented in the docket. (9) Disciples Pension Fund as presented in the docket. Russell asked for point of order. Jen Garbin advised that this plan had been re-registered but it is now a registered compensation plan. The government may tax the corporation. It has approval of a Canadian body and the All Canada Board of Directors is the Canadian body to approve changes. The plan also requires two Canadian trustees. It was moved by the Pension Fund Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) - that effective August 12 th, 2017, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Retirement Compensation Arrangement for Canadian Members be reinstated. Does not require a seconder. Motion carried. It was noted that a copy of this motion should be forwarded to the Pension Fund. (10) Committee on Ministry Report as presented in the docket. It was noted that Justin Schwartz status should be One Year Provisional Staff and not One Year Licensed Provisional Student. The Boundary &Anti-Racism Training will be addressed at the Board of Directors meeting tomorrow. This training is provided by the Region. At this point in time, just more than 50% of Regions require anti-racism training and more than 50% of Regions require Boundary Training within the next two years. Anti-Racist Training will be provided locally within the Region and Boundary Training may be the online training currently used by the United Church. (11) Church of Christ Development Company as presented in the docket. It was noted that Johnston Christian Park in Nova Scotia has really benefitted from the matching fund and it was suggested that a letter be sent to the Church of Christ Development Company thanking them for the matching program. (12) Canadian Council of Churches Jen Garbin provided a verbal report. She thanked Rev. Dr. Robert Steffer for his contributions. There are 25 member denominations across Canada including the Canadian Catholic Bishops. The work of the Council includes disarmament worldwide, peace & justice, flight of indigenous people, writing lots of letters especially those related to international aid and international crisis. It uses a consensus model of decision making in that unless everyone agrees, there is no action taken. (i.e. Safe 3 rd Country Act.) 2018 Convention Docket 63

64 It was moved by Chad Sinclair and seconded by Ed Stover that the above-noted reports be received. Motion carried. Ratification of the Board s Actions: Russell will research whether or not we have to have actions of the Board ratified. It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Rachel Frey to ratify the action of the Board. Motion carried. Financial Statements: The Board of Directors acknowledged with gratitude that Sarah Leitch has agreed to be the Treasurer. Jen Garbin presented the Financial Statements which included a Balance Sheet as of May 31 st. The Board has hired Flow Office Administrators to help with the transition. It was acknowledged that time is required to obtain all the necessary information and for the new Treasurer and the Finance Committee to be trained in a new updated system. The financial statements were received. Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report: After some discussion, it was moved by Ed Stover and seconded by Brenda Anger that the election of the Financial Reviewer for 2018 be delegated to the Finance Committee. Election of the Officers: It was moved by Rachel Frey and seconded by Janet Anstead that the current slate of officers remain the same. Motion carried. Motion to Adjourn: It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Rachel Frey that the meeting be adjourned. Closing Prayer: Russell Prime closed the Annual General Meeting with prayer. Respectfully submitted: Debbie Thibault Debbie Thibault Secretary Secretary 2018 Convention Docket 64

65 Ratification of the Board Actions AGM ` All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada January 18 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead KaeliSwiegard Janet Anstead Ed Stover Peter Fountain Jen Garbin Debbie Thibault Hubert Reece Joel Escalante Minnie Rigg Diane Poole Gus MacDonald REGRETS: Rachel Frey Russell Prime ABSENT: Chad Sinclair Julia Rodriguez OPENING: Jen Garbinopened the meeting with prayer at 8:00 PM EST. Jen then provided an update on her travels. She was at Wyndholme Christian Church this past Sunday and then spent three days in Montreal. She talked about the importance, as church, to not get caught up in forms, etc. but rather to the importance of keeping love at the centre of the church in order for us to experience grace and hope. In the words of Martin Luther King, a Beloved Community supports and upholds one another, has no tolerance for hunger, war, violence and oppression but rather promotes a just and peaceful society. The church needs to always focus on where God is leading, how we can work together, watch out for one another, reach out and determine where we are headed as a Canadian church. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: It was noted that Janet Fountain is not a member of the Regional Committee on Ministry but is on the Maritime Area Committee on Ministry. It was moved by Janet Ansteadand seconded by Ed Stoverthat the minutes of the November 16 th teleconference meeting be approved as circulated and amended. Motion carried. REPORTS: 1. Maritime Area President s Report Diane Poole Diane was not present during this portion of the meeting. However, she had responded that she is still in Florida and did not have a report to submit for the docket Convention Docket 65

66 2. Central Area President s Report Chad Sinclair There was no report for the docket from the Central Area. It was suggested that perhaps Chad was not aware that he was expected to submit a report. 3. Western Area President s Report Rachel Frey Rachel had indicated that there was nothing to report from the Western Area. 4. Moderator s Report Debbie Weatherhead as presented in the docket. It was noted, at this time, that Jen s Admin Assistant, Devin, only works for ½ day on Thursday and a ½ day on Friday. It is important to remember this when submitting reports in order to allow enough time for Devin to receive them and prepare the docket. 5. Committee on Ministry Report Ed Stover as presented in the docket. After some discussion regarding Boundary Training and Anti-Racism Training, it was moved by Ed Stover, as Chairperson of the Committee on Ministry, that the Regional Board draft a policy for clergy to take Boundaries and Anti-Racism Training every two to three years. Motion carried. Jen will ask Devin to research best practices and policies regarding boundary training. Jen and Ed will then draft a policy regarding training for clergy. It was moved by Ed Stover, as Chairperson of the Committee on Ministry, that Harold Boomhower and Awit Marcelino be granted standing as per the Committee on Ministry report. Motion carried. 6. National Youth Co-ordinator s Report Russell Prime as presented in the docket. 7. Regional Minister s Report Jen Garbin as presented in the docket. Jen thanked everyone for their prompt response to the Resolution for General Assembly. It was noted that there will be a few edits to qualify the last sentence. Jen is planning to have the revisions completed this week and will send them out to the Regional Board. The final resolution has to be submitted by January 24 th, Vice Moderator s Report/Update on Convention Kaeli Swiegard Kaeli reported that the members of the Planning Committee have been finalized and there are 8 members on the committee. Drewand Sarah Leach will lead Encounter. The committee will be meeting soon for its inaugural meeting. 9. Committee on Finance Minnie Riggs - as presented in the docket. Minnie reported that the Financial Statements are completed up to and including December 28 th, It is necessary to cash in investments now to meet financial commitments,which results in a loss of interest. It is anticipated that the Financial Statements up to and including December 31 st will be completed in time to be circulated with the minutes of this meeting. Income from the churches is very low. At 7 months of 2018 Convention Docket 66

67 the total budget, the income is $23, in comparison to be projected income of $57, Total liability/expenses are $124, resulting in a deficit of $67, OLD BUSINESS: 1. Committee Appointments These will be completed via Educational Funding for RM (French language course, conflict training) This will be completed via as well. NEW BUSINESS: ARISING FROM JEN GARBIN S REPORT: 1. New Church Finance (Brush With The Spirit/Campbell Stone) Jen Garbin presented the funding request from the newly authorized Brush with the Spirit church plant for $50,000 to be dispersed over three years based on the funding formula of: Year 1 - $20,000, Year 2 - $18,000 and Year 3 - $12,000. It was moved by Minnie Riggs and seconded by Peter Fountain that $5, be dispersed by the end of January, 2017 to Campbell-Stone for its new church plant s, Brush with the Spirit, budget and that the remainder of the moniesbe dispersed over 11 months in equal amounts. Motion carried. In response to the request from Campbell Stone United Church for funding through the LP Schooling Fund (interest only), it was agreed to allocate the funds to them when the interest becomes available at the end of May or June to be dispersed by July. 2. Congregation in Formation Support (Word of Life, Joliette) Jen provided some historical background of the Montreal Fund based on correspondence from 1902 to 1928 between Brother Pratley of Montreal, L.A. Myles and Grant Lewis of the United Christian Missionary Society. It was noted that this money is a fund and is not a registered trust. As such, the funding can be used for its original intent to support church formation in Quebec. It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Diane Poole that a solidarity grant of $5, from the Montreal Fund be dispersed to Parole de Vie/Word of Life Church in Joliette, QC. Motion carried. 3. Request for Funding from Q Church Jen informed the Board that the monies being requested by Q Church is to support moving their 2 gatherings, increase their ability to be found through Google search, develop a Donations Page, facilitate additional events and to provide Pastor training Convention Docket 67

68 It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Diane Poole that support of $8, be given to Q Church beginning with dispersing $2, in the first week of February followed by $ per month for 10 months. Motion carried. 4. Website Translation tabled for now. CLOSING PRAYER: Debbie Weatherhead closed the meeting with prayer. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 p.m. EST. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Thibault Secretary All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada March 15 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead KaeliSweigard Janet Anstead Ed Stover Peter Fountain Jen Garbin Debbie Thibault Russell Prime Joel Escalante Minnie Rigg Diane Poole Rachel Frey ABSENT: Chad Sinclair Julia Rodriguez Gus MacDonald Hubert Reece OPENING: Jen Garbinopened the meeting with prayer at 8:00 PM EST. In preparation for an opening devotional, Jen Garbin had asked that we read the Convention Planning Committee Report making note of the two verses Psalm 133:1 (how very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity) and John 13:35 (by this it will be clear to all men that you are my disciples, if you have love one for another.) Jen spoke about the process of appreciative inquiry (when we are at our best, what do we look like?) and last meeting s reference to beloved community (words that came from Martin Luther King, Jr.). The idea of beloved community is that we are called to be a community together where there is no tolerance for hate or violence Convention Docket 68

69 Jen asked, How do we want to be together? She then asked for us to think about why we would want to bother being the church. When we hear the words, open to everyone, what does that mean for us individually? Why are we here? Where does our heart lie in these things? Why do we want to be part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)? Some of the responses were the fact that there is so much room to agree to disagree and still be able to continue as community, the value of love, how we carry out our faith, the congregational leadership allows for differences of expression, people free to live as they find their faith, united but not uniform, habit have gone to a Disciple church ever since I was old enough to go to Sunday School, feels like home, we have a responsibility to work toward our relationship with God without being told how to do it, Disciples have a big advantage.i don t know what kind of Christian I will look like in years but it is home no matter what, Elders can disagree but still gather at the communion table together. Jen closed the devotions by stating that as we move forward, we need to keep at the center the reason why we are, who we are and that we can honor and respect that we are all children of God. The table is not ours we are guests at Christ s table no sides the table is round.jesus brought together 12 to share perspectives and create open dialogue and discussion. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: It was moved by Diane Poole and seconded by Janet Anstead that the minutes of the January 18 th, 2017 meeting be approved as circulated. Motion carried. AGENDA: The following additions were added to the agenda: (1) New Business - Funding for ÉgliseÉvangéliqueMahanaim De La Rive Nord Jen Garbin. (2) Business arising from the minutes - Dates of August Board meeting Debbie Weatherhead (3) Business arising from the minutes Financial Reports Peter Fountain (4) New Business Canadian Youth Mission Event Russell Prime OLD BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES: 1. Update on policy for clergy re: Boundaries and Anti-Racism Training Devon researched information about boundaries training in other regions and training online. The United Church has an online boundaries training tool which costs $ Ed referred to a motion which is included in the Committee on Ministry Report. There are local people who could provide this training. Rachel Frey could provide it in the west and the Board would need to find someone in the east who could provide it. The cost could be shared with the College. It was decided that Ed and Jen will work together on developing a policy which the Committee on Ministry can submit to the Board. 2. Update on Canada as a TUCC (Traditionally Underrepresented Cultural Constituency) Jen reported that overall folks were appreciative of this resolution. It is one step forward in recognizing that the American church hasn t been culturally competent when it comes to the Canadian Church. We are still predominately a white church. Of 22 congregations, there are only 4 or 5, possibly 6, who are not predominantly white. It was 2018 Convention Docket 69

70 noted that the version that was accepted and passed by the General Board should appear soon on the General Assembly website business section. Debbie Weatherhead extended appreciation to Jen for all of her hard work related to this resolution. 3. Update on Committee Appointments - New Church & Ministry Team Debbie Weatherhead reported that she did not have any response to her requesting names. Jen s description of the committee is ambitious and it will be a challenge for the members to keep up. Peter Fountain was asked if he had agreed to chair this committee at a previous meeting. Debbie W., as Moderator, is an ex official member of the committee. Jen Garbin will approach Jen Watkins. (Peter had agreed to chair the Pastoral Relations Committee at the September meeting.) 4. Update on Educational Funding for Regional Minister It was noted that Peter Fountain was the only one who provided any comments in response to Debbie W. s . Debbie W. suggested that it would be helpful if Jen could provide information on specific training and the cost and the request(s) could be looked at on an individual basis. It was suggested that this time could be added to the Regional Minister s Contract. 5. Update on Funding for New Churches Jen reported that: a) Brush With the Spirit there was a mixup with the funding but that is getting sorted out b) Word of Life, Joliette received their cheque with thanks c) Q Church received their funds and were very excited about this. Minnie reported that mail delivery in Alberta is terrible and three times cheques were sent to Campbell Stone but were not able to be delivered. Future funding will be sent via wire transfers. Minnie also reported that there are no financial statements for this meeting. With the new system on reporting on investments, statements are not received until a month later (January statements were not received until the end of February. February statements were just received today.) The financial statements should be up to date shortly. Right now, it is tax time and a staff person cannot be assigned to work three days a week. 6. Update on United Church Talks: Jen reported that the Report to the General Board was accepted with applause and excitement. Some of the members of the team had to change so the team would match that of the United Church. Those currently on the team are Paul Chang, Rev. Dr. Sharon Watkins, Jen Garbin, Rev. James, Mark Toulouse and Rev. Ray Cuthbert. Talks begin in April and will proceed for the next two years meeting on a quarterly basis. The ultimate goal is to arrive at an understanding that we are not joining the United Church but that we will have a closer relationship. Pastors will be able to go back and forth between the Disciples and the United Church. Full communion goes deeper than mutual recognition. There is a recognition that policies are different but, hopefully, this would allow for the 2018 Convention Docket 70

71 hiring of a pastor in rural areas where there are Disciple and United and the sharing of one pastor who represents both congregations. 7. Dates for Annual Meeting: After some discussion, it was decided to change the dates of the Annual Meeting from August 10 th, 11 th & 12 th to August 14 th, 15 th & 16 th. 8. Financial Reports: Peter stated that his question has already been answered by Minnie. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Regional Representative for General Board: Jen advised that she can no longer be the Regional Representative for the General Board. It was moved by KaeliSweigard and seconded by Joel Escalante that Fritz-Gerald Joseph be the Regional Representative for the General Board. Motion Carried. Jen advised that she will print a bio for Fritz-Gerald Joseph in the Canadian Disciple. 2. Regional Representatives to General Assembly: It was noted that the Canadian Region is able to send three (3) representatives to General Assembly. It was agreed to decide by prior to the next Board meeting. 3. Regional Booth at General Assembly: It was noted that the cost per booth at the last General Assembly was $ but that it was beneficial to have a booth. It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Ed Stover that the Canadian Region have a booth at the General Assembly. Motion carried. There was discussion about who would be the Coordinator of the Booth. Jen offered Devin s services to order the booth and get it secured and Jen will find folks to gather information. Kaeli offered to work with Jen and it was also suggested that possibly Tim Campbell and Emanuella Joseph could work with Jen. 4. Website Translation It was decided to address this at the next meeting. 5. Emergency After discussion, it was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by KaeliSweigard that we support ÉgliseÉvangéliqueMathanaim De La Rive Nord by (1) Accessing the Montreal Fund (2) Making a grant of $19,000 to ÉgliseÉvangéliqueMathanaim De La Rive Nord, payable in monthly instalments of $1,600 month over a period of 12 months, (3) Issuing the first instalment of this grant as soon as is possible (given our internal restrictions). Motion Carried Convention Docket 71

72 6. Canadian Youth Mission Event Russell Prime shared information about a Canadian Youth Mission Event which he is interested in taking part in. Dates are July 22 nd to 29 th for ages Russell will send out information to Board Members. REPORTS: 1. All Canada 2018 Planning Committee Report KaeliSweigard Kaeli reported that the Committee could use some more help. Report on File. 2. Committee on Ministry Report Ed Stover Ed reported that the Committee on Ministry will develop a policy on boundaries and antiracism training. It was noted that Anne Stainton s ordination will be on Saturday, June 17 th at Hillcrest Christian Church, Toronto. 3. Committee on Finance It was decided to move on to the Regional Minister s Report. 4. Regional Minister s Report Jen Garbin 1. Finance Committee It was determined that a Finance Committee be struck and the following were suggested to be on the committee - Jim Chinnock, JenGarbin and Minnie Riggs. It was noted that there should be someone who is willing to market for gift-giving. Names suggested were KaeliSweigard and Tim Campbell. If anyone has any other suggestions, please names to Jen. 2. Financial Administrator It was noted that it is no longer possible to find someone to perform the duties of the Treasurer on a volunteer basis. It was decided to ask April Burrows of Flow Office Wisdom to prepare a proposal for Financial Administrator. This proposal will then be dealt with on a separate conference call to be held at the end of March. 3. New Church Vision This will be discussed at the next Board meeting. 4. GotoMeeting The Board supports Jen s suggestion about using GoToMeeting for ministers to get together. 5. Pastoral Relations Team It was recommended that the Pastoral Relations Team get together before the Regional Minister s contract is reviewed. The Committee consists of Chairpersons Debbie Weatherhead and KaeliSweigard. Debbie W. and Peter Fountain will be in touch and Jen Garbin will be included in this conversation. Debbie Weatherhead closed with prayer at 11:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Thibault Secretary 2018 Convention Docket 72

73 Next Meeting May 17 at 8:00 pm EDT All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada March 29 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead KaeliSwiegard Janet Anstead Ed Stover Peter Fountain Jen Garbin Debbie Thibault Chad Sinclair Joel Escalante Hubert Reece Diane Poole Russell Prime Gus MacDonald OPENING: Debbie Weatherhead opened the meeting with prayer at 8:00 PM EST. The purpose of this meeting is to review the proposal from Flow Office Wisdom s quote providing the All Canada Regional Board with a Financial Administrator. Peter Fountain asked that we also suggest names of people to be members of the Staff Relations Committee. Jen Garbin s contract is up for renewal June 1 st and it is necessary to provide a performance appraisal prior to the renewal of the contract. QUOTE FROM FLOW OFFICE WISDOM: Jen provided some background information. Flow Office Wisdom is owned by April Burrows who is a member of the Leadership Team at Sugarbush Church. This company would hire a Financial Administrator to perform the financial requirements of the All Canada Regional Board. At the present time, the financial administration is being done by Rigg Bookkeeping and it is difficult for their staff to continue to perform these duties. Debbie W. advised that the Board will have to find a Treasurer because Edward Rigg does not want to continue as the Treasurer. Further discussion indicated that the Financial Administrator would report directly to the Treasurer. The Flow Office Wisdom would not have the ability to do deposits and/or access cash. The Treasurer would be the liaison between the Financial Administrator and the Board of Directors. After some further discussion about the quote, it was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Diane Poole that we (the Board) authorize the Finance Committee and Jen Garbin to work out the details of the contract with Flow Office Wisdom. Motion Carried. FINANCE COMMITTEE: It was noted that Janet Anstead is the Chair of the Finance Committee. KaeliSweigard and Peter Fountain are members of this committee and Debbie Weatherhead is an ex officio member of the 2018 Convention Docket 73

74 committee. Jen Garbin will see if she can recruit a few more members and those suggested were Jim Chinnick and Tim Campbell. STAFF RELATIONS COMMITTEE: It was noted that Peter Fountain is the Chair of the Staff Relations Committee. It was determined that there should be two members from each area. Those suggested were: Maritime Area Peter Fountain and Debbie Weatherhead Central Area Janet Anstead and Hubert Reece Western Area Rachel Frey and Ray Cuthbert. It was decided that there would be further discussion between Jen Garbin, Debbie Weatherhead and Peter Fountain via to determine who would be on the Staff Relations Committee. Board approval could be obtained via communication as well. Jen Garbin will send the contract information to Peter Fountain. The meeting was adjourned at 10:09 p.m. EST. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Thibault Secretary All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada May 17 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead KaeliSweigard Janet Anstead Ed Stover Jen Garbin Chad Sinclair Debbie Thibault Russell Prime Rachel Frey Joel Escalante OPENING: Jen Garbinopened the meeting with prayer at 8:00 PM EST. Jen then led an opening devotional based on 1 Peter 2:2-10 living stone. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Amendment: It was noted that on page 3, section 6, that the sentence Pastors will be able to go back and forth between the Disciples and the United Church needs to be deleted from the minutes. It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Ed Stover that the minutes of the March 15 th, 2017 meeting be approved as amended. Motion carried Convention Docket 74

75 It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by KaeliSweigard that the minutes of the March 29 th, 2017 meeting be approved. Motion carried. AGENDA: The following additions were added to the agenda: (5) Update on the Flow Office Wisdom Proposal (6) Update on the position of Treasurer OLD BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES: 9. Update on policy for clergy re: Boundaries and Anti-Racism Training - In Committee on Ministry Report 10. Update on Committee Appointments - New Church & Ministry Team The Committee Appointments are Tim Campbell (Ontario) and possibly Jen Watts (Western). (7) Regional Representatives for General Assembly Two Assembly registrations are included with the booth. These registrations are going to KaeliSweigardand Fritz-Gerald Joseph. After some discussion about who may be going, it was agreed that KaeliSweigard would be one of the Regional Representatives and the decision on who the second Representative will be will be determined closer to the date of the Assembly. (8) Regional Booth at General Assembly Kaeli and Tim will be in charge of the Regional Booth at General Assembly. It was decided to collect Canadian pins, etc. to have at the booth to give away. Jen will pick up Canadian Maple Toffee. Kaeli will get some resources from the Canadian Council of Churches. It will be necessary to have copies of our resolution at the booth as well. It was also suggested to have Robert Steffer s new book there. Jen will send a note to writers across Canada to see if there are others who would like to display their literary works. It was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by KaeliSweigardto budget $ to purchase give aways for the Regional Booth at General Assembly. Motion carried. (9) Website Translation There has been no action on this because the translator has been very busy with a lot of requests. (10) Update re: Flow Office Wisdom The Finance Committee met and requested a new proposal as soon as possible. There were no changes to the quote but there were changes to the tasks and reporting process. The proposal will be forwarded to Debbie Weatherhead as soon as it is received. (11) Update re: Treasurer 2018 Convention Docket 75

76 Sarah Leitch has agreed to be the Treasurer for one year and then a decision will be made mutually between the Board of Directors and Sarah as to whether or not she continues as Treasurer. It was moved by Janet Anstead, on behalf of the Finance Committee, to install Sarah Leitch as the Treasurer of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. Motion Carried. It was moved by Ed Stover and seconded by Debbie Thibault that Sarah Leitch and Janet Anstead be named as signing officers. Motion Carried. NEW BUSINESS: 7. Regional Minister s Report Jen Garbin - as presented in the docket. Jen reviewed her travelling schedule and Debbie Weatherhead acknowledged what a busy year Jen has had and expressed appreciation for all her amazing work. Jen spoke about what a challenge it is to produce the Canadian Disciple and how great it would be to have an editor. She acknowledged KaeliSweigard for her s and assistance and also Tim Campbell for his pro bono work with regard to Twitter and Facebook. If your church/congregation is having a special event, please send information to Jen for inclusion in the Canadian Disciple. 8. Moderator s Report Debbie Weatherhead as presented in the docket. 9. Committee on Ministry Ed Stover as presented in the docket. It was moved by Ed Stover, on behalf of the Committee on Ministry, that the Board of Directors approve Ann Stainton for ordination. Motion carried. 10. Finance Committee Janet Anstead Janet advised that there will be a meeting of the Finance Committee scheduled now that there is a Treasurer in place. 11. Staff Relations Report Peter Fountain No Report 12. All Canada 2018 Planning Committee Report KaeliSweigard as presented in the docket. The 2018 All Canada Convention will be held at the University of Guelph. 13. Area Reports: Maritime Area Debbie Thibault as presented in the docket. Central Area Chad Sinclair No Report (Chad had left the meeting before the Area Reports were presented so no verbal report.) Western Area Rachel Frey No Report (Rachel had left the meeting before the Area Reports were presented so no verbal report 14. Youth Ministry Russell Prime 2018 Convention Docket 76

77 Russell reported on a Youth Ministry event in the United States which he and Bob Howell had attended. There is also a possibility of exchange of students this summer between JCP and the Ontario Conference. 15. Appreciation to Minnie Riggs Jen Garbin Jen expressed appreciation for Minnie Riggs hard work over the years and asked that we pray that the year-end will be able to be completed by the end of June. Russell Prime closed with prayer at 9:45 pm EDT. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Thibault Secretary Deborah Weatherhead Moderator All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada August 16 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead Peter Fountain Janet Anstead Ed Stover Jen Garbin Hubert Reece Debbie Thibault Russell Prime Rachel Frey Joel Escalante Sarah Leitch REGRETS: Chad Sinclair KaeliSweigard OPENING: A short meeting of the Board of Directors began as 12:50 p.m. for the purpose of addressing several topics before the Board of Directors closed their annual face-to-face meeting. Regional Minister s Contract: It was moved by Peter Fountain on behalf of the Staff Relations Committee that the Board of Directors accept the contract drawn up for Jen Garbin as the Regional Minister. Motion carried Convention Docket 77

78 Debbie Weatherhead will changes to the contract to the Board members. Committee on Ministry Anti-Racism & Boundary Training Policy: Ed Stover presented the proposed Anti-Racism Training & Boundary Training Policy to the Board of Directors for approval. After some discussion about timelines and whether training should be necessary prior to licensing, it was moved by Rachel Frey and seconded by Hubert Reece that the Committee on Ministry make changes to the policy as discussed and that the policy, as amended, be approved. Motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 1:30 p.m. EDT. Respectfully submitted: Debbie Thibault Debbie Thibault Secretary All Canada Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada August 15 th, 2017 PRESENT: Debbie Weatherhead Peter Fountain Janet Anstead Ed Stover Jen Garbin Hubert Reece Debbie Thibault Russell Prime Rachel Frey Joel Escalante Sarah Leitch REGRETS: Chad Sinclair KaeliSweigard OPENING: Janet Anstead opened the meeting with prayer at3:55 PM EST. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: It was noted that on page 3, section 6, that the sentence Pastors will be able to go back and forth between the Disciples and the United Church needs to be deleted from the minutes. It was moved by Rachel Frey and seconded by Janet Ansteadthat the minutes of the May 17 th, 2017 meeting be approved as amended. Motion carried. AGENDA: 2018 Convention Docket 78

79 OLD BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES: 11. It was moved by Peter Fountain and seconded by Ed Stover that the motion regarding the request from House of Prayer for funding of $1, which was approved by be an addendum to the meeting. Motion carried. REPORTS: 1. Moderator s Report Debbie Weatherhead - as presented in the docket. 2. Vice-Moderator s Report KaeliSweigard as presented in the docket. 3. Financial Report Sarah Leitch and Jen Garbin as presented in the docket. It was noted that there is no access to the US account. Jen Garbin reported that the transition from Riggs Bookkeeping to Flow Office Wisdomhas not been completed in that Flow Office Wisdomhas not been able to obtain all of the previous financial paperwork. The Board has always worked with a reactionary budget and is now trying to work on a nonreactionary budget. The statements presented provide a budget overview. It is hoped that there be a workable budget in place by the end of December. It is anticipated that there will be a need to run a deficit budget for at least the first year. There was no budget presented to be received by the Board. 4. Committee on Ministry Report Ed Stover - as presented in the docket. It was noted that Justin Schwartz is in a Temporary One Year Standing which is to be reviewed this fall prior to its expiration at the end of this year. 5. National Co-ordinator, Youth& Young Adult Ministries Russell Prime as presented in the docket. Russell reported that he would like to have regional calendars regarding upcoming events made up. There are two Facebook pages one for the OCWF and the NSCWF which are the best pages to find that information. 6. Staff Relations Report Peter Fountain as presented in the docket. The Staff Relations Committee will be meeting with Jen during the Health Break. 7. Regional Minister s Report Jen Garbin as presented in the docket. (1) Jen reported that there will be 9 people from the Canadian Region attending Lay Leadership Training; those being, 4 from Montreal Fritz Hugh Emmanuel& a translator plus 2 other Montreal Pastors who are affiliated; RoddieLaRose and his wife, Angelove; Awit Marcelino plus Arlene Croft and her wife who are in Saskatchewan but planning to move back to Nova Scotiato start a new congregation in Sackville; Eric Sackville from Brush with the Spirit in Calgary and Jen Watts who is now working in California in addition to her work in Calgary (she has started two new Q congregations in California in partnership w the PSW Region). The cost would be $300US/person for registration, meals, etc. plus flights. We hope that halfof the registration will be reimbursed by the College - $ and maybe half of their travel from the College. A budget of $ for travel per person plus $ person was suggested.it was moved by Janet Anstead and seconded by Rachel Frey that the Board provide $7, for the Lay Leadership Training. Motion carried Convention Docket 79

80 (2) It was moved by Janet Ansteadand seconded by Joel Esclanate that thechurch Plant Funding Request from Somos Uno ChristianChurch (Disciples of Christ) of Montreal (old Happy Family Money) be granted. Motion carried. (3) As per previous agreement, it was moved by KaeliSweigard and seconded by JanetAnstead that Lucien Mezidor shouse of Prayer Church s request for $1, be granted. Motion carried. It was moved by Janet Ansteadand seconded by Peter Fountain that the above reports be accepted. Motion Carried. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m. EDT. Respectfully submitted, Debbie Thibault Debbie Thibault Secretary Disciples Canada Board Meeting Notes 19 Oct 2017, 8pm EST Present: Jen Garbin, Debbie Weatherhead, Hubert Reece, KaeliSweigard, Ed Stover, Peter Fountain, Sarah Leitch, Debbie Thibeault Rev. Dr. Jen opened in prayer Approval of minutes from Aug 15 & 16, 2017 Edits: #5: OCWF to be changed to OCYF & NSCYF Changes to some grammar re: Happy Family & money #7 - Regional Minister s report, should be Erin Satchwell ; Joel s name should read Escalante Motion for acceptance: Ed; Seconded by Hubert; Minutes approved as corrected Old Business Arising from the Minutes 1. Update on planter training and funding request from the College 1. College responded with $900 of support for the 9 planters; therefore $100 each 2. Update on Committee structure and meeting schedules 1. In order for committees to work effectively, regular meeting schedules should be set up 2. We should have a master calendar with meeting schedules on it 2018 Convention Docket 80

81 3. Debbie W. will send out instructions to committees for how to administer a Doodle poll 4. Confirmed chairs: CoM (Ed); Finance (Janet); Staff Relations (Peter); Visioning and Strategy (Kaeli and Jen) 1. New Church Ministry chair is to be confirmed 5. Frequency of meetings 1. Monthly meetings aren t important, but a November 2017 meeting is, especially to set up a game plan 1. especially finance - need to have a budget in place by December 2. It was suggested that since the board meets every two months, perhaps the committees can meet in the alternating months 6. Re: Populating committees with reps from different areas: Each committee has at least 2 or 3 members outside of the board; challenge is that we have a small board; d/t by-laws, committees have to be chaired by a board member; committees can be larger than 4-5 people; chairs can recruit additional committee members and names should be passed on to the board; striving for area, gender, age, cultural, etc. balance should be a priority New Business 1. Request to place WICC logo and link in canadadisciples.ca 1. We should also include other organizations that we are closely connected with, e.g. Canadian Council of Churches 2. Goal setting 1. For committees to set an actionable goal 3. Developing a strategic plan - not going to happen tonight! Reports 1. Regional Minister s Report - Jen 1. Request for funding for House of Prayer (Lucien Mezidor); Jen s recommendation is to do a one-year grant 1. we do not have quorum on this call so cannot move forward right now 2. Pastor Jean-Daniel Francois of Mahanaim has a great idea for a children s music ministry 1. request for a small grant to get this off the ground will be coming soon 2. hoping to use Reconciliation monies 3. Canadian Council of Churches 1. We haven t paid our dues yet 2. Suggested Appointments: 1. Rachel Pellett - Commission on Justice and Peace 2. Jane Pekar - Faith and Life Sciences Reference Group 3. Jen Garbin - Commission on Faith and Witness; and Forum for Intercultural Leadership and Learning 2018 Convention Docket 81

82 4. Peter moved that we appoint these people; Ed seconded; carried. 4. Vacation Request from Jen: Dec 26-Jan 7 1. Sarah made motion that we approve as requested; seconded by Hubert 5. Sarah, Jen and FLOW are working to get Fritz-Gerald and Emmanuela Joseph to Morocco (leaving Oct 23, 2017) 1. Emmanuela as Global Mission Intern; Fritz as lay mission volunteer 2. Because they are not American citizens, Global Ministries cannot pay them because they don t have Social Security # 1. Setting up Emmanuela as staff of region so she will be on payroll 2. Fritz will be paid similar to XPLOR residents 3. The Board give our blessing to Fritz and Emmanuela as they move forward in their call 2. All Canada 2018 Planning Committee Report - Kaeli 1. Nothing new to report on; Kaeli will pass along report soon 3. Moderator s Report - Debbie 4. Committee on Ministry Report - Ed 1. Changed Anti-Racism Training to Anti-Oppression" 2. Committee accepted Darlene Brewer as candidate for ordination; will come under care of the Committee for two (2) years 1. Board Carries the Motion 5. Committee on Finance - Janet; not received 1. Budget is in FLOW s hands 2. Difficulty with XPLOR participant getting her funds 3. Working with FLOW to develop a better system for individuals to sign over life insurance policies to the Region 6. Staff Relations Report - Peter; no report submitted 1. Peter will try to get committee together in November for meeting 7. Area Reports 1. Maritime Area - Debbie T 2. Central Area - Chad; no report submitted 3. Western Area - Rachel; no report submitted 8. Executive talked to Russell a few weeks ago around a request of his to be excused from Board meetings for the next year as he works on his PhD; he will submit reports Next Meeting Date: Dec 7, 2017 at 8pm EST NB: This meeting was chaired by Debbie Weatherhead, Moderator, and was held via GoToMeeting Conference Call. This minutes were taken by KaeliSweigard because Debbie Thibault was not able to join the conference call until the meeting was almost over Convention Docket 82

83 Minutes of the Meeting of the Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. December 7, 2017 Present: Debbie Weatherhead, Sarah Leitch, Ed Stover, Peter Fountain, Jen Garbin. Janet Anstead, Hubert Reece, Rachel Frey Regrets: Kaeli Swiegard, Debbie Thibeault, Joel Escalante Jen opened in prayer Janet agreed to be Acting Secretary for the purposes of this meeting. Approval of the agenda Debbie asked for any additions to the agenda. The Western Area Report is moved up to before new business to accommodate Rachel s time commitment. Rachel moved the agenda by accepted as amended. Ed seconded. Carried. Approval of minutes of Oct 11 and Oct 19, The Minutes were distributed. Debbie asked for errors and omissions. Sarah Leitch was present at the Executive Minutes Oct 11, 2017 but was absent from the list. They were received as amended. There were no errors or omissions of the Minutes of October 19. Ed moved the acceptance of the Minutes of Meeting of the Board of Directors on Oct 19. Peter seconded. Carried. Old Business arising from the minutes: 1. Update on Committee structure and meeting schedules: a. New Church & Ministry Team - no meeting yet b. Committee on Ministry CoM met to interview two candidates but have not yet met as an inaugural meeting c. Finance Committee Janet gave an update on the financial challenges in accessing our CRA Business account. A budget will be presented by the next meeting. d. Staff Relation Committee Peter reported that he will be setting up a meeting in the New Year e. Visioning and Strategy Committee Meeting scheduled but was canceled. Jen reminded everyone that she is an ex officio member of every committee and should be included in any meeting. Western Area report given verbally by Rachel. New Pastor at Broadway United. Ed Stover has agreed to help out as Treasurer for the Western Fellowship. The plan is to step up some grant system for congregations to apply for support. New Business: 1. Executive challenges Both Kaeli and Debbie Thibeault have resigned their respective positions on the Regional Board (Vice-Moderator and Secretary). Kaeli will continue to lead the 2018 Convention Docket 83

84 organization of the Convention this summer but will not assume the role of Moderator thereafter. Debbie also reminded the Board that we will have to find a Vice-Moderator from the West effective Aug. 2. House of Prayer finances the request was originally received in July but due to lack of time was not discussed at the August meeting and because there was no quorum it was tabled at the Oct 19 meeting. Jen gave her understanding of the history of Regional support or lack thereof from the Region. It is the largest Haitian congregation in Montreal. The congregation is very stable but Jen is very concerned that these New Church Planters do not receive any salary. The recommendation Jen made in August was that we approve a $2500 monthly support for House of Prayer for one year: $1000 of this dedicated as salary and then $1500 out of pocket expenses especially for the after school program. The suggestion was that the support commence Sept 2017 (which has passed). Janet made a motion that we accept this proposal. After Peter raised concerns about the amount, there was a discussion about the history and use of these funds. Janet revised the motion to accept the proposal but commence payments Dec 2017 and be reviewed and re-evaluated in 9 months. Seconded by Hubert. Passed. 3. Mahanaim request Jen reviewed the history of the call outs for small and practical assistance in the past. This Haitian congregation has recently doubled in size due to some of the sociopolitical policies of the USA and Brazil. We have committed to supporting the church at a level of $1600 per month to help pay rent for a period of 12 months. Jen is suggesting that we increase the amount by $500 a month for the balance of the 12 months. Janet moved that we increase our support by $500 a month until May Seconded by Hubert. Passed. Reports: 1. Regional Minister s Report Jen reviewed some of the highlights of her report. She shared that she, sadly, attended the final service of Guelph Christian Church but was excited to attend Sugarbush s 6 th anniversary. She is most excited to share that there are at least 4 individuals who are interested in starting new churches in Ontario. There are also talks about reactivating the Windsor Church. 2. Moderator s Report Debbie presented her report. Jen gave her thanks for her leadership. 3. Committee on Ministry Report Jen gave an update that Darlene Brewer is a candidate for ordination and Justin Schwartz s license will be renewed although the nomenclature is still unclear. 4. Committee on Finance Janet forwarded Sarah s Treasurer s Report. Sarah spoke to her report which was an overview of everything that has been happening. Sarah reported our bookkeeping firm, Flow Office Wisdom, is working on a more detailed financial report. 5. Staff Relations Report Peter had nothing to report. 6. All Canada August 5-8, 2018 Planning Committee Report Debbie shared that Kaeli has the contract from the University of Guelph for review. In the midst of working out a budget. Debbie has been speaking to Bruce Hemming who did the website for the 2016 Convention and he is willing to do the same for Jen also said that she is helping Kaeli pull together a local organization committee. There will be a Pastor s retreat immediately following the Convention funded by the College of Churches. 7. Area Reports 2018 Convention Docket 84

85 a. Maritime Area Debbie T nothing to report since the reporting from October. b. Central Area Chad - no report. c. Western Area Rachel (see above) Closing prayer - Debbie Next meeting Feb 15, 2018 Meeting Adjourned 9:45p.m. Eastern Time Minutes of the Meeting of the Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada February 15, 2018 Present: Sarah Leitch, Ed Stover, Joel Escalante, Debbie Weatherhead, JenGarbin, KaeliSweigard, and Janet Anstead Regrets: Peter Fountain Absent: Hubert Reese, Rachel Frey Open with devotions Jen lead us in a devotion based on the parables of the sower. Approval of the agenda Deb mentioned that she would add under Executive members Treasurer Moved by Ed and Seconded by Janet. Carried Approval of minutes of Dec 7, 2017 the Minutes were reviewed. Moved by Janet seconded by Joel Old Business arising from the minutes: Update on Committee meeting schedules: a. Committee on Ministry met in January and have set up 3 other meetings b. Finance Committee met in the process of preparing a budget c. Staff Relation Committee no meeting d. Visioning and Strategy Committee no meeting Executive positions: Moved by, seconded by that we accept, with regret, the resignation of Sarah Leitch as Treasurer effective August 31, Debbie expressed gratitude for the hard work Sarah has put into the daunting task of taking over the Treasurer s duties. Reports and New Business Arising: 2018 Convention Docket 85

86 Regional Minister s Report Jen gave some highlights of her report including ongoing communications with the Congolese congregations as well as 3 potential church planters, and some interesting activity in Windsor, Ont. The following motions were made: a. Vice Moderator: Moved by Sarah and seconded by ED that Ann Stainton be Vice-Moderator effective immediately. Jen will follow up with Ann. b. Regional Minister Expenses:Jen requested that the Region pay one half cell phone expenses and the internet to be included in the monthly reimbursements. Sarahmoved that we cover half Jen s internet and entire cell phone costs each month. Seconded by Janet. Carried c. Vision Statement:Moved by Janet and seconded by Sarah that the mission statement and vision statementdrafted in August 2017 be ratified. Carried d. Jen raised the issue of the need for a representative from our Region to the General Board. Some suggestions were made Jen will follow up. Moderator s Report Debbie gave some highlights from her report along with the document Duties of Secretary. Approved by consensus. Committee on Ministry Report Ed mentioned that the Boundary and Anti-racism requirements can be caught up by Sept. Ed gave some highlights from his reports. Committee on Finance Sarah described the on-going nature of the Flow report structure. No questions were had of Sarah in her report. Sarah presented a revised remittance form. Motion from the Finance committee that a financial review be done. Carried. The Finance Committee will arrange for this. Treasurer s Report: Sarah presented the draft budget recognising that we have had some challenges over historical data. The budget reflects the situation as we understand it to be as of now. She reviewed it in detail. Our investments are just under one million dollars which are being used to sustain our spending. Moved by the finance committee that the budget be approved. Carried Staff Relations Report Peter No report All Canada 2018 Planning Committee ReportKaeli gave a verbal report. She shared that the contract has been signed for the University of Guelph. Iris from former GCC is going to be registrar. Area Reports a. Maritime Area Debbie W verbal report. b. Central Area no report c. Western Area Rachel d. Area structure discussion. Jen reviewed the present Area structure and suggested the area structure may need to change. The most vibrant part of the Areas at present is the camping ministries. Remaining New Business: Letter from Russell Prime requesting reduction of business at the All Canada Convention was tabled until the next meeting. Adjourned 10 pm EST Closing prayer - Debbie 2018 Convention Docket 86

87 Next meeting April 19, 2018 at 8:00 p.m. ET Regional Board online vote Feb 21, 2018 Janet Anstead moved and Ed Stover seconded that we make the following contributions: 1. $500 contribution to Women s Inter-Church Council in Canada 2. $35.40 payment of outstanding dues to Disciples Women travel pool 3. $615 contribution towards expenses for Awit Marcelino to attend the Inter-Regional Gathering for Disciples Women to be held April 6 8, 2018 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Responses in favor of the motion were received from 6 of the 9 Directors. Motion carried. This was conducted via and recorded by Deborah Weatherhead, Moderator Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada April 26, 2018 (postponed from April 19) Present: Jen Garbin, Debbie Waetherhead, Rachel Frey, Ann Stainton, Hubert Reece, Brenda Anger, KaelieSweigard, Sarah Leitch, Shirley Francis, Janet Anstead Devotions Jen lead us in a devotion based on Beloved Community. No tolerance for oppression, exclusion and the community instead is based in truth and justice. Rereading the law for a new generation. Welcomes Debbie welcomed Ann Stainton, who is visiting(until her nomination for Vice Moderator is approved) and is assisting Jen with the arrangements for the All-Canada Convention. Debbie also welcomed Shirley Francis, incoming President of Maritime Area. Approval of the Agenda Moved by Janet seconded by Hubert. Carried Approval of minutes of Feb 15, 2018 and online vote of Feb 21, Moved by Janet seconded by Hubert. Carried. Old Business arising from the minutes: Executive positions:secretary Ed Stover had offered to do the secretarial position for the next two meetings. Due to his wife, Dewan s, injury he is unable to attend tonight. Treasurer as yet, no one has been willing to accept position of Treasurer Convention Docket 87

88 Financial Review. April Burrows from Flow Office Wisdom has indicated we need to have a financial review done, and the options are to have a full accounting audit, or what is termed a choice review. April is checking to determine which we are required to perform. Reports and New Business Arising: Regional Minister s Report Jen Regional Representative to General Board: Motion by Rachel, seconded by Janet that Ray Dungca be our Representative to the General Board. Carried Request from Mahanaim:A request has been received from Pastor Jean Daniel Francis to consider extending our support beyond the term already agreed upon. Jen suggested that we extend to the end of the year. The funds to support this will be taken from the Montreal Fund. Janet moved Brenda seconded that we continue at the present rate of $2100 until the end of Carried 50/15 review/revamp:jen expressed the opinion that the goals set for this program were unrealistic. As we come to the end of the 20/20 vision of the general church it behooves us to revisit the goals articulated in both visions. Jen believes there is great potential for new congregations in Ontario and in Nova Scotia. Jen would like us to set more reasonable goals with parameters for what we can offer by way of resources. She suggested this should be a working group. Debbie Weatherhead and Ann Stainton volunteered to be on the strategic team, aiming to have something to present to the All Canada Convention in August. Therefore, Debbie suggested any interested people to volunteer within the next week given the time crunch. Website:Kaeli volunteered to help in researching our options for an alternative to GoDaddy, which is our current platform. Rachel suggested, and it was agreed to by consensus, that Kaeli be empowered to look into that. Signing Officers: Sarah Leitch and Janet Anstead leave the Board in August and are currently the two signing officers for the Board. Motion by Brenda seconded by Shirley that Jen Garbin and Ann Statinton be made signing officers effective the end of July 2018 Goals: Jen provided a document listing proposed goals for the Region for 2018/19. It was moved by Janet and Seconded by Brenda that we proceed with the three Goals articulated by Jen. Carried. Jen, Ann and Deb will form working groups/teams based on Jen s suggestions. Moderator sreport Debbie highlighted her report. Committee on Ministry Report Jen gave a verbal report. The Committee on Ministry will set up a meeting. Janet will be off that committee after August. Hubert, Neil, Jen and Ed are the remaining members. Update on the Boundary and Anti-oppression workshops space at the All Canada Convention. There are also some leads on Boundary Training in the 3 areas. Committee on Finance Sarah presented a Treasurer s Report. a) Request for Encounter Funding:Moved by Janet seconded by Rachel that the Region support Encounter to the amount of $2500 as needed. Carried b) Request for Sponsorship of Montreal Youth: Russell suggested via that support be offered to assist youth from the Montreal churches to attend Encounter. Janet volunteered Mapleton would be willing to support 2 youth. Brenda (Winger) and Debbie (West Gore) also said they would take similar requests to their congregations Convention Docket 88

89 c) Ecumenical Contributions: Moved by Janet, seconded by Shirley that the Region contribute$ to support the work of the Canadian Council of Churches. Carried. Staff Relations Report No report, but a meeting has been set up. All Canada 2018 Planning Committee Report Jen provided a verbal report. Ann requests that reports for the AGM docket be submitted to her by June 28. Iris Lambert is registrar. Jen has been working on the schedule and has confirmed that TerriHord Owens, General Minister and President, will be there for at least some of the time. Registration is available online now and paper forms will be sent out. Jen stated we need to have 100 participantsin order to break even. Area Reports e. Maritime Area Thanks Shirley for the report. Jen expressed concern that Disciplefest was kept at the same time but due to camps and rentals it was the only time available. f. Central Area Brenda reported that the congregations are coming together in June to consider a new vision for the OACC. g. Western Area Rachel no report Tabled from last meeting A letter was received from Russell Prime suggesting the structure of the All Canada Convention be changed to involve more fellowship, learning and sharing with less time devoted to business. Jen advised that the planning committee is incorporating Russell s views as much as possible and that trends for both the Regional and General Assemblies are along the lines he describes. Item tabled until next meeting: Area structure discussion Meeting Adjourned at 10 pm EDT Closing prayer - Debbie Next meeting June 21, Regional Board of Directors Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada June 21, 2018 Present: Jen, Deborah, Janet, Ann, Peter, Shirley, Rachel, Russell Devotions Jen led a devotion focusing on reminding us that it is not because of our belief that we can do anything. The Call is that we can do anything in unity because we are Children of God We are made of the same stuff God is. Secondly, we need to have faith when we ask something in his name rather than praying out of scarcity, want or ego. Ask instead in a heart of compassion and faith. WE face both challenges and some massive opportunities. Approval of the agenda Russell asked that Encounter be added to the agenda but as neither Sarah nor Drew were present there was no need. Moved by Peter seconded by Rachel. Carried Approval of minutes of April 26, 2018 Moved by Janet seconded by Rachel. Carried Old Business arising from the minutes: 2018 Convention Docket 89

90 2. Executive positions: a. Secretary - Darlene Brewer will assume this role after the Convention b. Treasurer still no one interested in being Treasurer. It is possible we may need to move outside Ontario. This will be addressed at a special meeting. 3. Financial Review: April Burrows has suggested that we use a professional for a Review Engagement. Russell clarified that we are federally incorporated. The matter was tabled. Janet will send out information to all clarifying the context in which we have concerns. Janet will also get a more accurate estimate of the cost of such a review. An vote will be taken to determine how the Board wishes to proceed. New Business: 1. George H Stewart Award nomineesneil Bergman and Robert Leland. Plenty of information supporting Robert s nomination but less information supporting the nomination of Neil. After supplementary information provided for Neil it was decided to proceed with both. Bob Howell, who nominated Neil, will be asked for further information. Shirley moved, Rachel seconded acceptance of these two nominees. A friendly amendment was made to include MindaOsais and Ray Cuthbert as nominees. Carried. Ann and Peter agreed to get further information from Minda and Ray respectively. Debbie will ask Bob to provide further information on Neil. 2. Resolutions coming before Convention none have been received yet. Russell will present a motion regarding Reconciliation with Indigenous peoples for our AGM Building Beloved Community see Jen s report 4. Travel plans and BoD meetings pre- & post-convention The Board will be meeting prior to the Convention at 3: 00 on Thursday Aug 2. The post meeting will be 1 pm on Sunday August 5. The Pastors Retreat has been scheduled 5:30 Sunday until 1 on Monday. Reports: 1. Regional Minister s Report Jen spoke about what Beloved Community has meant in the past (i.e. Martin Luther King) and how we could use it to expand as an organizing concept of who we are meant to be as Church. Our task as the Region is to nurture and support the ministry of the congregations by providing support to the congregations as well as ministering in the gaps. There is an opportunity to be very focused on the work we are doing by assisting in real tangible ways. The three goals we articulated at the last meeting all feed into each other. Jen invited everyone to send her comments or critique. Jen also shared that we only have 28 registered for Convention. We need 100 to break even. With Encounter there will be about 40. We need to push for more people to attend. Also Jen shared that the Canadian Disciple is not being as widely accessed as would be hoped for. The only indicator of readership is via , and then only that the was opened. This shows an uptake of less than 50%. We need to revisit this as part of our new communication initiative. 2. Moderator s Report Debbie submitted her report 2018 Convention Docket 90

91 3. Committee on Ministry Report Due to Ed Stover s wife, Duwan s, accident, Jen has taken on the leadership role of this committee. At present, we have three candidates under care: Darlene Brewer, Ben Kidd, Awit Marcelino. The new requirement for standing, i.e. anti-oppression and boundary training, was met with great compliance. An anti-oppression training event is scheduled for pastors on the first day of the Regional Assembly. The cost for this is yet to be determined. Boundary training in the Areas has not yet been organized, but opportunities are being explored. 4. Committee on Finance No report 5. Staff Relations Report Peter reported that there were only 3 out of the6 committee members in attendance at the meeting in April. He will be setting up another meeting soon. 6. All Canada 2018 Planning Committee Report Jen updated that we now have 6 workshops. She also mentioned that we will have a number of guests attending. AGM docket reports are to be forwarded to Ann by June 28.Ann has received nothing yet. 7. Area Reports h. Maritime Area Shirley gave a verbal report. i. Central Area Janet gave a verbal report j. Western Area no report Debbie closed with prayer at 10 pm Next meeting August 2, Convention Docket 91

92 Financial Statement AGM DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT 2018 Convention Docket 92

93 DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT 2018 Convention Docket 93

94 DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT 2018 Convention Docket 94

95 DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT DRAFT 2018 Convention Docket 95

96 DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION ONLY 2018 Convention Docket 96

97 DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION ONLY 2018 Convention Docket 97

98 Auditor s Review and Financial Reviewer s Report AGM Due to the extensive changes we have made to our financial reporting including the transfer of data to our new bookkeeping service, the Board has determined that a financial review will not take place until after the enclosed draft statements have been discussed by the Board. At this time, no action is required Convention Docket 98

99 Recognitions In Memoriam: August 2016 August 2018 In loving memory of Canadian Disciples whose earthy life ceased since last we met. Their shared lives of faith and witness are remembered by their congregation and us. Broadway Disciples United Church Amos Trinidad - August 12, 2016 William Archibald Speers - April 5, 2017 John Donald Watts - July 22, 2017 Benjamin Hener Amaca - April 15, 2018 Emerenciana Monte Aviso - May 3, 2018 Campbell Stone United Church Kay Bandola - April 24, John Olivier - December 6th, 2016 Ann Henniger - July 13th, 2017 Guelph Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Sarah Burns - January 9, 2017 Eileen Street - March 28, 2017 Charles Perrott - April 10, 2017 Marguerite Parker - May 5, 2017 Jo Carmichael - June 6, 2017 Jean Millar - November 27, 2017 Janet Thompson - December 8, 2017 Hillcrest Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Bruce Carruthers August 18, 2016 Rev. Dr. Jose Sotto August 25, 2016 Jeanne Weeks March 15, 2017 Jean Hambleton January 3, 3018 Enid Grant May 22, 2018 Mapleton Church of Christ (Disciples) Myrna Spiers (Moore) - January 6, 2017 Donna Wall - April 8, 2017 Marjorie Hanley - September 16, 2017 Lowanna McCallum - May 23, 2018 Robert Thornton - May 24, 2018 McKernan Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Esther Rawson - December 19, 2016 Ken Walker (former pastor)- March 11, 2017 Helen Zasiedko - April 4, 2018 Milton Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) John Keating August 29, 2017 A. Elizabeth Manthorne Sept 30, 2017 (Betty was CC(DoC) moderator 94-96) Gloria Meers October 24, 2017 Judy Huey February 13, 2018 Vera Oliver February 13, 2018 Lyman Huskins March 27, 2018 St Thomas Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Robert Davies - June 2018 Leona Larson - Aug 2016 Muriel Luton - May 2018 Adelia Wood - July 2018 Summerville Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Dan Lawson - April 6, 2018 West Gore Church of Christ Adelaide Gregoire Elizabeth Roulston Dana Wilson Winger Church of Christ (Disciples) Keith Zavitz Lloyd Johnson Alida Konert June Palcso June Powell Ernie May Aaron Zavitz 2018 Convention Docket 99

100 George H. Stewart Awards The George H. Stewart Award is given in recognition of outstanding service and dedication to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. The Board of Directors for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada created the George H. Stewart Award in 1998, in order to recognize living individuals who have given years of outstanding service and dedication to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. It is given for years of service (a decade or more) beyond the local congregation at the national or international level. The Awards are presented at the All-Canada Convention, which is also known as the Regional Convention of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada. Congregations, groups, or individuals (including board members) may make nominations for possible recipients of the award to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will make the decisions regarding the offering of the Award. If the Board decides that there are no individuals who meet the minimum requirements, then no Award will be offered in that Convention year. The following is a list of criteria for the George H. Stewart Award: Living individual who has made a significant contribution to the work of All-Canada Years of service (a decade or more) beyond the local congregation or area; those years of service having been at the national or international level Years of outstanding service and dedication to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada 2018 Convention Docket 100

101 2018 George H. Stewart Award Recipient Neil Bergman Neil Bergman is a lifetime Disciples of Christ member. His parents were John and Lillian Bergman and much of Neil s early years were spent in church. Later childhood was based in Edmonton Alberta where his father pastored First Christian Church. Neil was post high school educated at Northwest Christian College, in Eugene, Oregon and the University of Alberta. He later obtained more professional ministry preparation at Lexington Theological Seminary. Neil arrived back in Canada in He served the Wyndholme Christian Church for several years, Milton-Summerville briefly and also the West Gore Church of Christ. Neil also has currently served Wyndholme for the past few years aa one part of a three-minister worship leadership team. In Area ministry he has aided the church in a variety of ways. At Johnston Christian Park he directed 2-3 events and served at all camping levels for perhaps fifteen years or more. He was the adult advisor to the Nova Scotia Christian Youth Fellowship (NSCYF) for a few years. Neil was, and remains, active within first the Maritime Christian Missionary Society and its successor the Maritime Area of the Christian Church Board. He was a member and chairperson of several committees including: Nurture, Finance and Good News. His leadership was also appreciated in aiding the Area as both its Program Co-ordinator and also its Area Minister. For many decades Neil has been recognized as the only continuously serving Disciple pastor known to many pastors of other denominations, especially in the metro area. He was known for his work with the Halifax- Dartmouth Council of Churches; the Canadian Christian Festival and the Atlantic Ecumenical Council (in many roles). At the Regional or national level Neil taught Disciple History and Polity at Acadia University, was involved with Disciple-Roman Catholic International Dialogue, and was active with the College of Churches of Christ in Canada for decades. He also was active as an Executive member with the Church of Christ Development Company for a dozen or more years. Lastly he served the All Canada Board as a member and as staff (as Area Minister) and also aided by chairing a Moderator s Task Force. At the general level he attended World Conventions, most General Assemblies in last thirty-five years, some ecumenical consultations and has been involved in Church Plant training and experience. Being true to his calling the Rev. Neil Bergman has been a servant to the church in Canada and beyond, during his forty-five plus years of active ministry and thus a worthy recipient of the George H. Steward Award Convention Docket 101

102 2016 George H. Stewart Award Recipient Ray Cuthbert Throughout his life, Raymond Cuthbert has been actively involved in the life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada and beyond. He is a third generation Disciple on his mother s side of the family. Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he grew up in the Home Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Just before his thirteenth birthday he decided that he was called into the vocation of ministry. As a young teenager he became interested in the discussions on Church Union taking place between the Anglicans, United Church of Canada and Disciples, attending all open sessions in his area. As a result he was selected, at the age of 17 to serve as one of three Disciple delegates to the Canadian Council of Churches Triennial Assembly in 1972, beginning a lifelong involvement in ecumenical movements on behalf of Disciples. Having graduated with his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg (1976), he attended Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, receiving a Masters of Divinity degree in (1979), followed by a Doctor of Ministry degree (1989). In 1979 he was called to serve as minister of West Lorne Church of Christ (Disciples) and Area Minister for Ontario, positions which he served until After a year working on his Doctor of Ministry degree he was then called to his home church, Home Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Winnipeg. In 1997 Home Street Church joined with two local United Churches to become Broadway Disciples United Church an ecumenical, intercultural congregation for all ages. From 1997 until 2015 he served as the founding minister of this congregation, for a total of 36 years of ministry in Canada. However, during this time he was also very active in Disciple work at the Canadian level. He served on the All-Canada Committee and the Board of Directors of the CC(DoC)iC for a total of 21 years( , , , ) including as Chair of the Committee on Ministry ( ) and Moderator ( ). He also served as Editor of the Canadian Disciple ( ). As well he has represented Canadian Disciples as Member of the General Board of the CC(DoC)in the United States and Canada ( ) and on its Administrative Committee ( ); the World Council of Churches Sixth Assembly in Vancouver (1983); and is presently a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada/The United Church of Canada Full Communion Dialogue Group. He has also had a strong commitment to ecumenism and has served on: the Board of Directors for the Council of Christian Unity of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) while working on his Masters degree; the World Council of Churches Central Committee ( ); and the WCC s Commission of the Churches on International Affairs ( ). He has also written many articles on Christian Unity. Ray has been supported by his wife Grace and son Michael in his ministry. Throughout his life, Ray has certainly set a high standard for Disciples, and we extend our deep gratitude for his many years of faithful service for our Disciple Church in Canada Convention Docket 102

103 2016 George H. Stewart Award Recipient Minda Osias As a young person growing up in the Philippines, Minda was baptized by Rev. White, a missionary of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She became close friends with another Disciples missionary to the Philippines, Dorothy Martin Jeffries, a member of Hillcrest Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Toronto, who introduced her to Hillcrest in As a member of Hillcrest, Minda has held many positions. For many years, she was President of the Christian Women s Fellowship. Later, she became Chairperson of the World Outreach Committee and established the World Outreach corner in the narthex of the church. On two different occasions Minda held the position of Chairperson of the Hillcrest Board of Elders. From the beginning of the Pilipino Bible Study Group until very recently, Minda has been the Treasurer. Every Wednesday evening, she was a loyal participant of the adult Bible Study led by the late Joe Bowen. Minda has been very supportive of the Ontario Disciples camping program. During the summer if she was not a camp counsellor for the Chi Rho camp, she was at the Conference Grounds as the nurse. As a member of the Ontario Christian Women s Fellowship, each year Minda attended the Spring Rallies and fall retreats. She also attended the Disciples Women Quadrennial meeting twice while it was still active. Minda served two terms as a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Canada (All Canada) Board of Directors and has been an active member of the OACC. Minda has been a faithful servant of Christ s church for many years and is well known both here in Canada and in the United States where many still remember her from attendance at Quadrennial and General Assemblies. Thank you, Minda, for your years of service, dedication, faith, and support of the Disciples of Christ across all its manifestations. Well done, good and faithful servant! 2018 Convention Docket 103