PREPARED FOR 2018 ANNUAL MEETING

Transcription

1 Banwell Community Church Annual Report ANNUAL REPORT 2017 PREPARED FOR 2018 ANNUAL MEETING B A N W E L L C O M M U N I T Y C H U R C H B A N W E L L R O A D W I N D S O R O N T A R I O, N 8 P 1 X 9 A M E M B E R C H U R C H O F T H E C B O Q ( C A N A D I A N B A P T I S T S O F O N T A R I O A N D Q U E B E C )

2 Banwell Community Church Annual Report

3 Banwell Community Church Annual Report TABLE OF CONTENTS Pastor s Report 4 Board of Directors Report 5 Church Clerk Report 6 Age Unlimited Report 7 Pastoral Care Team Report 9 Pastoral Care & Worship Report 10 Envelope Steward Report 12 Finance Report 13 Rock Solid Ministry Report 14 Christian Growth & Nurture Report 15 Small Group Report 18 Mission & Outreach Report 19 Director of Christian Education Report 20 Decorating Committee Report 22 Library Report 23 Human Resources Committee Report 24 Men s Ministry Report 25 Property Management Report 26 Mary & Martha Women s Ministry Report 27 Together Mental Health Care Group Report 28 Music Ministry Report 29 Outreach Ministry Report 32 Banwell Financial Year in Review 33 Board of Directors Working Committees 34 Revenue/Expenses Report 36 Board of Directors Info 40

4 Banwell Community Church Annual Report PASTOR S REPORT As I submit my last report as pastor of our beloved Banwell congregation, I m reminded of the uniqueness of this occasion. I can t help but look back with gratitude to the years Linda and I have spent with our congregation but I m also excited about what our Father has in store for the future mission of Banwell. I think it s safe to say that the last two or three years have been good growth years for our church. As I ve mentioned to several of you, it seems to me that we as a congregation are now an option for folks who want to connect with a Christian church in our region. Even with a new building, it took a few years for us to establish a reputation as a faithful, welcoming church. Now I think we are really there thanks be to the Lord! Our six working committees have each worked hard to address their respective areas of ministry, those being Christian Growth and Nurture, Finance, Human Resources, Mission and Outreach, Pastoral Care and Worship, Property Management. You ll find that each one of our committees has submitted a report for this booklet. I think that if we truly engage the mandate in each of these areas, we will continue to be attractive to those who are searching for a church home, as well as being faithful to the calling we believe the Father has for us. By next year at this time I hope your new pastor will be well in place, beginning to enjoy the special congregation that Banwell has truly become. In spite of the changes that are taking place in our society and the world at large, I believe that the message of the gospel will continue to meet the God-shaped need that all people possess. The role of the Christian church in society may take on different forms but the essence will always be the same. As our Lord himself said in his inaugural message; The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord s favour. (Luke 4:18-19) May the words above continue to form the core of the ministry of this church. As I mentioned above, what a wonderful experience it has been to serve you as pastor. Many thanks, and my apologies, to our Board of Directors. It has been a pleasure to serve with you and I regret leaving you pastor-less for a bit but I know you re up to it and I m especially grateful to Chris Freeman and Dave Hammond for being chair and vice-chair respectively at this time. To paraphrase a famous verse in Esther, you guys have surely been brought to the kingdom for such a time as this. It s been a pleasure to serve with our staff. I m grateful for the stability they will provide in the days after my departure. May the Lord continue to bless Banwell Community Church. Respectfully submitted Alex

5 Banwell Community Church Annual Report BOARD OF DIRECTORS REPORT Dear Banwell Family, This last year was a busy and eventful one at Banwell Community Church in our community of East Windsor brought significant news including major building repairs and the announcement that Alex is retiring in mid Over the past number of years, the number of water leaks and related issues to the building have increased. As a result, the Board of Directors reviewed and considered various options and contractors to understand the necessary repairs to the building. Through an engineering project management firm, we have hired a restoration company who specializes in the specific type of work needed. They have been working on the building, starting in the fall and will continue as weather permits, completing work in the near future. Once the work on the exterior is complete, some work will begin on the interior to repair some cosmetic damage caused by water leaks. So far, the contingency fund has been able to fund the repairs. The Board will continue to monitor the project and will keep you up to date. In addition to building repairs, some discussion and research has begun into building expansion. In 2017, the Board formed a subcommittee to look at the possibilities and options to expand the physical building. That committee solicited feedback from all of you and has submitted their report. The Board will be reviewing that report and will update the congregation as discussion continues. Lastly, we are a family at Banwell Community Church and in 2017 we learned that one of our family is retiring. Both Alex and Linda have been an important part of my family s life as I know they have been to so many of you. We have been so blessed that Alex and Linda chose to conduct their ministry here in Windsor at BCC. We will miss his leadership and teaching for sure. We now look to the next phase for BCC. The Lord has a plan for us and even now is preparing someone to come to lead, to teach, and be part of our family. The Board has formed a Pastoral Search committee that is well underway in efforts to identify a successor. They are making regular progress reports to the Board and we will ensure we provide regular updates as appropriate. As we move forward into 2018 and another year of ministry I ask for your continued support in prayer and deed. God has blessed us with an important role in this community. You each play such an important role at BCC. Your prayers and your financial support are critical in the work we do at BCC. Thank you, Chris Freeman Chair, Board of Directors.

6 Banwell Community Church Annual Report CHURCH CLERK REPORT The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27: Statistics Total Members (as of January 1st, 2017) 309 Members Deceased in New Members Added in Members Transferred Out in Total Active Members (as of December 31st, 2017) 316 Welcomed Into Membership During 2017 Christa Braccio, Cyra Charlton, Jason Charlton, Linda Gale, Kathy Gallant, John Gellner, Lynn Moroz, Mark Moroz, and Donna Siebert. Believers Baptized in 2017 Cyra Charlton, Jason Charlton, John Gellner, Bryana McCarthy, and Susan Williams. Membership /Transfers in 2017 Members Called Home by Their Lord and Saviour in 2017 Doris Bryce and Maureen Church. Adherents Jim Demers. Average Sunday Attendance in 2017 was 255 Respectfully Submitted, Dorothy Allan

7 Banwell Community Church Annual Report AGE UNLIMITED REPORT Many O Lord my God are the wonders you have done. Psalm 40:5 Have you counted your blessings recently? The hymn states count your blessings one by one and it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. During the year 2017, Age Unlimited and the Seniors Ministry experienced many blessings. Wonderful fellowship, spectacular speakers, enjoyable entertainment, powerful prayers, terrific travelogues and a marvelous memorable bus trip outing to Point Pelee National Park. Summary of 2017 MONTH January February March April May June September October November December PRESENTATION AND TOPIC Tom Noble, Alzheimer s Information Al Beitler, Rhine River Boat Cruise Al Bietler, Enchanting Ireland Gord Hambly, Treasures of Egypt Stacy, Walter D. Kelly Funeral Home Pre-Planning Options for Journey s End Point Pelee National Park, Bus Trip, Film,Tram Ride, Boardwalk, Fish Lunch The Bateman s, Helping Seniors Make Their Move Dr. Brock Van Dyke from Solid Foundations Thanksgiving Praise Al Bietler France, Paris the City of Lights and the Province Rev. Dr. Alex Moir, The Christmas Story, George Baden, Memorable Christmas Music Our fellowship has been blessed with a wonderful team: people help set up and clean up. Henry Nurse is our coordinator; Rev. Dr. Alex Moir is our spiritual advisor; Joan Fulmer keeps the group informed; Madelon Kidd is our Treasurer and Claude Daniels offers grace prior to our luncheon.

8 Banwell Community Church Annual Report AGE UNLIMITED REPORT (Cont d) At the close of each meeting our hostesses from the Hospitality Committee prepare a delicious, nutritious meal. This team s chair is Yvonne Eberle. She is assisted in the planning and preparation by Penny Bain, Madelon Kidd, Dorothy Allan, Pam Beemer and Carol Middaugh. As we go forward in 2018, we have been blessed by wonderful volunteers who have suggested themes and an outing for June. Summary of 2018 MONTH January February March April May PRESENTATION AND TOPIC Rev. Dr. Alex Moir; Praise and Participate Singing Fun and Favourites. Kim Anber, M.M.C. Marvelous Mediterranean Cruise on Valentine s Day Viola Glos, Refugee Rev. Dr. Alex and Linda Moir, B.B.C. Beautiful Baltic Cruise Gord Hambly, Adventure in Alaska June Coach Bus Tour to Saint Jacobs, an invitation to Banwell congregation to see new St. Jacob s Market and lunch. If you are new to Banwell or recently retired, we extend an invitation to all seniors to join us. May God continue to bless us in Coordinator, Henry Nurse Submitted by Joan Fulmer

9 Banwell Community Church Annual Report PASTORAL CARE TEAM What a privilege it is to serve the congregation of Banwell in a pastoral way. What we mean by pastoral care is the art of extending the Father s love to our church family as they walk through the challenges that are part of life. This is done in a variety of ways by conducting personal visits in the hospital setting as well as nursing and retirement homes; by arranging to visit individuals who are confined to their homes for various reasons; by making a phone call, sending an or a get well card; by coming alongside our grieving folks at the funeral home; even by arranging to meet with folks at Canada s gathering place known as Tim Horton s! We will do whatever it takes to extend the care of the congregation to folks who need it most. We are blessed to have a fine team of folks who serve on the PCT Penny Bain, Deborah Bevington, Hyacinth Daniels, Gord and Marlene Hambly, Ken and Heather Heuston, Sandy Kettlewell, Madelon Kidd, Joyce Lembke, John Lynn, Sharon Maitre, Brenda Tetley and Lilian Wilson. Thanks to Ruth Ann Purvis who served our team well and who has felt it is time for her to back away. The personal hours put in by this group is truly impressive and enhances our ministry as a congregation. As we look forward to different pastoral leadership in the future, I d like to encourage you to affirm the importance of this ministry and to continue this invaluable tradition within our congregation. Though keeping in touch with the members and adherents is part of every pastor s tool box, the pastor cannot be expected to do it all. Further, there are some contacts best done by volunteers. May the Father continue to inspire us to find a way to care deeply for the entire congregation. Respectfully submitted Alex

10 Banwell Community Church Annual Report PASTORAL CARE & WORSHIP REPORT 2017 was an exciting year at Banwell, and the Pastoral Care and Worship Committee (PCWC) would like to thank all of our volunteers who made this possible. We welcomed 9 new members into our congregation in We are so blessed that the Lord has brought these people into our church family. We were also able to celebrate the baptisms of 5 people this year. We celebrated our 15th Anniversary in January with guest speaker Rev. Gene Tempelmeyer (Spring Garden Baptist Church, Toronto) giving an inspiring message. Following the service, we enjoyed cake and tea/coffee with the Banwell family. The Pastoral Care & Worship Committee would like to thank all the volunteers who helped to organize, setup, and cleanup, making this a very special event! We continue to use the projector prior to the service to communicate with the congregation of upcoming church events. Deborah Doyle works very hard in putting these slides together and she does a wonderful job. Thank you Deborah. In June, we held our annual church picnic. We enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salads, veggie trays, and ice cream bars. Thanks to all those who helped to organize and serve at this special event. The Small Group Ministry continued to expand in 2017 as we added more new groups. Dave Page along with his team has outlined his vision to further develop and grow the Small Group Ministry in a detailed Ministry Plan. The focus will be on leading and developing new facilitators, as well as improved communication with the congregation about these Small Group opportunities. It is the goal of the Ministry to get everyone at Banwell involved in a small group. We'd like to thank them for their hard work. Once again, we enjoyed some fantastic music from all our different groups this year. The praise singers, choir and all the soloists, duets and groups did a great job. The Cantata was a success this year performing on 2 different nights. Ian has done a fantastic job overseeing and working with all the people involved.

11 Banwell Community Church Annual Report PASTORAL CARE & WORSHIP REPORT (Cont d) Once again, the Pastoral Care & Worship Committee would like to thank all our volunteers in the Music Ministry, the Hospitality Ministry, the Sound Ministry, the Small Groups Ministry, the Pastoral Care Team, the Ushers and Greeters, the Coffee and Tea volunteers, and the Decorating Committee, as well as everyone else involved in helping this year. Also, special thanks to the Pastoral Care & Worship Committee members, Donna Soper, Deborah Martel, Marsha Campbell and John Goodwin. It was a pleasure working with all of you this year. We send our love and appreciation to Pastor Alex and Linda Moir for their faithful service to our congregation. Respectfully submitted, Kevin Andrews, Chair Members: John Goodwin, Marsha Campbell, Deborah Martel, Donna Soper Representatives: Kim Anber, Jim Wheeler (Ushers and Greeters), Yvonne Eberle (Hospitality), John Goodwin, Deborah Doyle (Sanctuary Tech), Ian McGregor Smith (Minister of Music)

12 Banwell Community Church Annual Report ENVELOPE STEWARD REPORT To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1 This is a season for gratitude, gratitude for God s great love and mercy in sending His son, Jesus, to pay the price for our sins that we might have eternal life. As we think of all the reasons we have to be grateful, I would like to thank the faithful and devoted people who work as Tellers each Sunday after the service to count and balance your offerings. The Tellers are Connie Turner, Maureen Scott, Mark Moroz and Marsha Campbell. A big thank you goes to Gord Wickham too who reconciles the cash and cheque envelopes for us. Jan McKay was a great help in the Teller s role for most of the year as well. Here are some updates on your offerings: There are 195 people/families using numbered boxed envelopes. There are 30 people using PAD (Pre-Authorized Deposit). Options available for making donations that are eligible for tax receipts include using numbered boxed envelopes, the pew envelopes where you can add your name and mailing information, post-dated cheques and PAD. Should you choose PAD, you can make changes simply at any time. If you would like more information on any of these options, please contact me by at gbwickham@cogeco.ca, by phone at or place a note in my mailbox #137. Please let me know of any changes in address so that you receive your income tax receipt in a timely manner. God is not enriched by our giving, but we are impoverished by our withholding. Thank you for your steadfastness in giving. In His Service, Barb Wickham, Envelope Steward

13 Banwell Community Church Annual Report FINANCE REPORT The Finance Committee would like to thank our Banwell family for your generous giving once again this year. We have been able to get some much-needed renovations done to the building. Our Working Committees have been able to build up God s kingdom through their various ministries. Please refer to Page 33 for the Banwell Financial Year in Review 2017 prepared by our Treasurer, Bruce Rand. There you will find the actual givings, expenses, etc. for May God continue to bless each one of you as you give faithfully to His work this year. Respectively submitted, Ross Hickling, Chair

14 Banwell Community Church Annual Report ROCK SOLID MINISTRY REPORT With a new leadership team in the Fall, we started off the school year with a Glow Party, which was a great chance for the youth to come back together and catch up with familiar faces, as well as many new ones. This Glow theme carried over to the Outdoor Movie, which was held by the Optimist Club, in which our Youth raised funds by selling glow sticks before the movie. This was slightly unsuccessful as the weather was so poor, but on the bright side our youth had a good time and we now have plenty of extra glow sticks! Along with our regularly scheduled Friday nights, we had a few other exciting group events that included the Rend Collective concert, which was held at Heritage Park Alliance Church, our annual pie baking fundraiser, as well as Christmas caroling. We must thank the members of the church who invited us to come caroling at their houses, I hope they enjoyed it as much as we did. Also, thanks to the Men s Ministry and helpers who worked with us to make all the Pies for the Quilt Bazaar & Tea. The highlight of this year was our Fall retreat. Our youth spent the weekend at Kiwanis Sunshine Point camp, having lots of fun and growing closer together as a family. It is always great to get away from the world, even if just for a weekend, to reflect and appreciate what we have in our lives. We spent the weekend studying Psalm 139, learning how amazing we are, but more importantly how perfect God is. We must thank the Men and Women s ministries for coming out to serve us meals while we were there. A huge thank you also goes out to Marlee and Dave Page for taking care of us the entire weekend. We are so thankful for all the prayers and support that went into making this weekend a great experience for all who attended. We hope to make this retreat an annual event, but maybe earlier in the year for the sake of warmer weather. There are so many things that we did this fall including fun games, bible studies, small groups, and much more. We as the leaders are so thankful for your support, and we ask that you continue to pray for us as we serve these youth. We are so excited to start another year in this ministry, however 2018 will be a little different. Our group is really starting fresh, as we are changing our group to Illuminate Student Ministries! We are excited to see the energy that this change brings, and we hope that it can bring a new perspective to everyone about what our youth group is, and why it is important. We are looking forward to serving this group with you again in 2018, On behalf of the leadership team, Braeden Braccio

15 Banwell Community Church Annual Report CHRISTIAN GROWTH & NURTURE REPORT Service To serve means to assist or be of use. Serving is one of the reasons we are on this earth and the reason Jesus himself said He came to earth. When we serve, we reach out to meet the needs of others; service is an outward sign that we belong to God and desire to do His will. True service is not about grudgingly doing for others because of obligation, but an act that flows willingly, as a channel of God s love. True servants give not just with their hands, but with their hearts. The Christian Growth and Nurture Committee began in 2017 with Grant Fairley as our chair until his term was completed in June. We would like to thank him for his leadership and encouragement. He provided a wonderful example of faithfulness and service, qualities that indeed reflect God s love. Marlee Page continues to serve as our Director of Christian Education. She constantly provides guidance, leadership and support that has allowed the C.E. ministries to carry on successfully. She has completed her certificate of Biblical Studies at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago showing that she truly wants to do God s work here at Banwell Community Church. We appreciate all that she does. Her inner beauty continuously radiates outward and affects everyone she comes in contact with. We are thankful for all of the other leaders and volunteers who help out. The C.E. ministries would not be possible without you and all your hard work and dedication. Kid Zone our midweek program for children JK through grade 5 continues to grow. This is an exciting place to be on Thursday evenings as the children learn about Jesus and the bible through music, stories, drama, crafts, games and snacks. We had a challenge in May with the sudden departure of Karen Saldana as our Director of Youth Ministries. Fortunately we had a team of youth leaders that stepped up and offered to continue planning and leading our youth programmes. We would like to thank Braeden Braccio, Aaron Blata, Danny Blata, Monika Blata, Christa Braccio, Emily Andrews and Kyrn Page who use their gifts and talents to minister to our youth as they journey through their teenage years. Rock Solid, is our youth program for those in grades 6 to grade 12. The youth were very busy in 2017, highlights this year included, graduation party camp out at the Page s retreat at Kiwanis-Sunshine Point Camp

16 Banwell Community Church Annual Report CHRISTIAN GROWTH & NURTURE REPORT Children s Church our Sunday morning program for children JK through grade 5 remained the same as last year since this format worked well. Children learn about the major Bible stories through stories, crafts, games and snacks. Once again we would like to thank everyone who helped in this program. The giving of your time, energy and creativity is truly appreciated. The Christian Education Hour on Sunday morning provides an opportunity to nurture our faith. We begin at 9:15 with engaging music provided by Dr. Alex Moir to start with. We offer classes for all ages. Teachers for our adult classes included Dave Page, Geoff McKay and Linda Moir. We are grateful for Dave Page who oversees the youth class and Emily Andrew who directs the children s class. Thanks to all of our teachers and helpers for their faithfulness as we help each other grow in their faith. Stop by the Library to see the large selection of books, DVDs and movies available for all ages to encourage and help you build a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Please look at the library report for more information from the library team. Throughout 2017 we have provided extra opportunities for people to connect with others in the church, for example, Bowl-a-thon for Camp Hermosa Vacation Bible School Passport to Peru Trunk and Treat with Mad Science Breakfast with Santa Men of Courage movie nights Games night On behalf of the Banwell Church Family, we would like to thank all of those who help in our Children s ministries. We especially want to note the leadership of Heather Doyle in our Nursery ministry, Kodi Page in our Vacation Bible School, Suzan Harper in our Little Lambs programme, Joy Andrews in our Kids Zone and Bonnie Hammond and Marlee Page in our Children s Church. We specifically would like to thank Janet Parsons. Each week she calls to remind all the volunteers who are scheduled to serve the following Sunday. This is very much appreciated and we thank you very much for your thoughtfulness.

17 Banwell Community Church Annual Report CHRISTIAN GROWTH & NURTURE REPORT (Cont d) If you are interested in helping in any of the programs or have ideas for other activities that you believe would help us grow and nurture (become more Christlike) please speak to Marlee Page or any member or representative serving on the committee. Please pray for our Christian Growth and Nurture ministries as we continue to serve all ages and stages of our church family and community. On behalf of the committee, Terri Prevett, Chair Members Kathy Freeman, Bonnie Hammond, Kim Stevenson, Donna Elder, Laurie Beemer Representatives Monika Blata (Library), Heather Doyle (Nursery), Suzan Harper (Little Lambs), Terri Prevett (Children s Church), Joy Andrews (Kid Zone), Braeden Braccio (Youth), Marlee Page (Director of Christian Education)

18 Banwell Community Church Annual Report SMALL GROUP REPORT A vibrant Small Groups Ministry continues to thrive at Banwell Community Church. This ministry offers a vehicle to help members and adherents to grow in love, support one another and serve God and the community. Currently there are 15 active groups that meet either weekly or bi-weekly, which is down slightly from this time in Our small group ministry is a great way to enjoy closer fellowship with other believers and to grow in your faith. The Focus of this Ministry continues to be spiritual growth thru bible-based study/ discussion, strong commitment to regular group involvement including Pastoral Care as well as opportunities for mission/service. This ministry continues to pursue the following goals: Growth from current status to 100% of Church Membership participation in Small Group Ministry Diverse opportunities for spiritual growth across a broad spectrum of age and gender demographics for BCC Members and Attendees to participate in this Ministry. In addition to the Pastor, Small Groups continue to provide a significant and meaningful component of Pastoral Care in the Banwell Community Church congregation. Development of specific mission/service opportunities for Small Groups to participate. Being a part of our Small Group ministry is a great way to enjoy closer fellowship with other believers and to grow in your faith. We are trying to intentionally provide at least two Starting Point experiences each year, as well as one new group each year. Please remember that we are happy for you to start a group on your own! All we ask is that you let Dave Page, Pastor Alex or Marlee Page know, study something Christian (either a Bible study or a book that helps you grow in your faith), incorporate a prayer time into your meeting and maintain the empty chair concept, where new people are welcome. Also, if you are interested in becoming a member of a small group, contact us or review our website for potential fits. In closing I d like to thank all our volunteer Small Group Coordinators. Your continued investment in this ministry and your fellow group participants are providing rich experiences for those who feel led to a closer relationship with Jesus and other believers. John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. Jesus Blessings, Dave Page, Small Groups Coordinator

19 Banwell Community Church Annual Report MISSION AND OUTREACH REPORT We finished 2017 with a strong focus on missions, and mission outreach. We would very much like to see the church involved in some short term mission trips, encouraging our youth and adults to think outside the box, sharing the good news with the world. Our last meeting of the year we had the pleasure of Dave Page with us and what his and Marlee s experience was on there trip to Africa, and how we could possibly participate with them. The needs there are not so much for money, but for teaching materials, such as Sunday school programs, adult leadership materials and of course Bibles along with lots of prayers for the work there. We are also thankful to be involved with the new Mary and Martha ministries, their first event called Harvest tea, they had a great turnout with Linda Moir our pastors wife speaking on serving like Mary and Martha. Sunday Night live programs were well attended this year, with our food donations going to the downtown mission. Our Christmas special offering this year went to Street Help homeless shelter of Windsor on Wyandotte Street East. We also had good year at our sister church, First Baptist on Mercer Street in downtown Windsor, helping serve breakfast to people less fortunate than us. We are indeed thankful to see how the Lord Works with people from all different backgrounds. I would like to thank each member of our team this year for their participation and faithfulness to our meetings, great job, Monique, Daniel, Craig, Gail, Alan,and Matthew. I remember what the hymn writer wrote, Only one life will soon be past only what s done for Jesus will last. Solo Des Gloria. Respectively yours, Geoff McKay, Chair Committee Members:

20 Banwell Community Church Annual Report DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Another year has come and gone and what a year it has been. It is always an amazing and busy time in my role here at Banwell, but I am thankful for God s many blessings, the people and opportunities He sends my way. The programs we had started in the Fall of 2016 continued through the winter and spring and were a great success. Pastor Alex, Dave Page & Geoff McKay taught the Adult Sunday School classes through the winter and spring. Kyrn Page and Emily Andrews taught the Children s class. Our Vacation Bible School called Passport to Peru -Discovering God s Good Gifts was a huge success! WE hiked the cloud-shrouded ruins of Machu Picchu, savored exotic flavors of the Amazon, heard what daily life is like from kids in Peru and immersed the kids in the vibrant culture where they discovered God s good gifts for us all! The kids had so much fun and we were still singing to the songs going into fall. Thank you to all the wonderful and amazing Volunteers who helped out for 4 nights to provide this opportunity for the children. A big thank you to Kodi Page for her hard work organizing the 4 days and to Chantelle Bell, Kyrn Page and Emily Andrews for all their hard work and time spent decorating the rooms so we felt like we were really a part of Peru! Before we knew it fall was upon us, and all programs kicked off to great success! We have a Christian Education Hour before Worship Service that provides in depth study into the Lord s word. We continued Open Session with our own Pastor Alex. This is a time of music from 9:15-9:30 a.m. The Adult class is very well attended. We started a new program for the C.E. hour. All classes and ages are journeying through the Bible this year chronologically. Linda Moir started the Adult class off through the fall. Emily Andrews is teaching the JK- Gr. 5 class and Dave Page has joined the Youth each Sunday morning. This has been a great adventure for all and the classes have been well attended for all age groups. Thanks to all of them for their faithful service and preparation each week. I would like to thank our wonderful teachers of all ages for their time and commitment and their genuine love of the Lord that they share with their students throughout 2017! Our programs during Worship Service, Nursery, Little Lambs and both Jr. and Sr. Children s Church, have been well attended. We are continuing with the Curriculum called Gospel Project and are still working chronologically through the Bible. We have jumped into the New Testament this fall. Our Midweek Program, Kids Zone, finished in May and then started in September with great excitement! We have had some children from the community who came for VBS join us on Thursday evenings too. It has been amazing! Lois rindlisbacher has joined us on Thrusday nights doing singing and action songs to start our evening off and the kids love it. Thanks, Lois!

21 Banwell Community Church Annual Report DIRECTOR OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (Cont d) Fall 2017, helping out with the Youth and Rock Solid Ministries was added to my job description. I have truly enjoyed working with our fantastic youth Leaders in planning and prepping their plans for our Youth. We have a group of youth that come and the Leaders are committed to giving 100% of themselves to show and share the love of Jesus with them. We planned a Youth Retreat weekend the end of October that was amazing though very COLD! There were lots of activities, Bible messages and laughter throughout the weekend. Thanks to the Men s and Women s Ministries for providing food on Saturday and to Dave Page for the rest of the food and the many pitchers of Hot Chocolate to keep us warm and toasty! Braeden Braccio has stepped up to be our Leader and is doing an amazing job. Also thanks to Danny & Monika Blata, Aaron Blata, Christa Braccio, Emily Andrews and Kyrn Page for committing to this ministry. These leaders give up more than just their Friday nights for this ministry. Their passion and commitment to this program shows in all they say and do. Thanks Team!! I am very blessed to have wonderful volunteers to work with in all the programs and I am grateful to get to work with them everyday. They are so dedicated and always up for the task. A thanks is not enough!! We could not run these programs without your dedication to your students, Thank you so much!!! Thank you to our Church Family! It s because of your faithfulness and support that we are able to have great facilities, programs and staff to do all we do. Thank you to Pastor Alex, Ian, Debbie and Chantelle for your continued support and help daily to make things run smoothly in all areas of our work. It is a joy and blessing to work with each of you. With blessings and love, Marlee Romans 12:1-2 So here s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you.

22 Banwell Community Church Annual Report DECORATING COMMITTEE REPORT Submitted by: Donna Soper Even before any decorations are added to the church, we have a beautiful place to worship. Thanks be to God for guiding us to this place and overseeing the construction of His church. As the seasons come and go, decorations are added or removed to freshen the look and hopefully bring calm to your worship time. The lovely wall hangings, made by Linda Stevenson, always add to the beauty of the sanctuary. This year a new Christmas banner was added to the reception area for all to see as they enter the church. There are three times of the year that major decorating takes place, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. These are the times I depend on extra hands to help and this year was no exception. At Easter, Marlee Page took the reins and with the help of the Stevenson, Freeman and Brown families Easter Morning was blooming with fresh flowers and Lillies beneath the cross. At Thanksgiving Marsha Campbell offered her help to assist me in decorating for Harvest. At Christmas Marsha Campbell and Deborah Martel gave me much needed help to decorate the whole church and Jeff Soper, Rob Adlam, Kim Anber, Braeden Braccio, Sean Doyle, and Jason Martin assembled and disassembled the stable. Thank you to each and everyone of you for your gift of service. I couldn t do it without you. Thanks to our Caretaker, Chantelle Bell, for her assistance in watering the Seasonal plants and flowers and helping to remove and store all the boxes of Christmas decorations. You are such an asset to our church. I want to take a moment to remember our friend Zelma Horvath who paved the way in church decorating with her tasteful and creative ways. Decorating was only one of her many gifts and she will always be missed. Thank you for your kind comments that continue to encourage us through the year. To God be the glory, Members: Donna Soper, Marsha Campbell, Deborah Martel and Helen Fontaine

23 Banwell Community Church Annual Report LIBRARY REPORT As a library team, we are very excited to continue to serve our church another year brought new challenges that we still need to deal with as we noticed that church members don t read as much as they used to. Modern technologies provide a great amount of online sources and it s easier to reach for those rather than reach for books in the library or local book stores. Our local bookstore Inspired is closing this month, but our team is motivated to encourage all church members to visit our library every Sunday before and after the service. Our library offers a great selection of newly released books and DVDs for all generations, bible study materials, audio books and much more. We would like to thank everyone that donated books in We can proudly say that our church library is one of the biggest church libraries in Windsor. Our 2018 goal is to keep bringing in new books that can change people s lives. Our library doors are always open and we will try to encourage everyone who walks by to stop by to find a book that God can use for His glory. Monika Blata Librarian

24 Banwell Community Church Annual Report HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE REPORT This past year the H.R. Committee continued to work to ensure our employees and volunteers were getting the support that they required to further the various programs and events that are conducted on an on-going basis at Banwell Community Church. Once again, we can report that both staff and church members made use of the Employee Education and Lay Leadership lines within the H.R. budget to further their growth at various conferences throughout the year. Ian McGregor Smith, our Minister of Music, along with a few members of the choir traveled to Nashville, Tennessee in early September, for the Getty Music Worship Conference Sing! A conference for musicians and leaders to reform and encourage congregational singing. Debbie Ebel, our Administrative Assistant, returned to Oshawa, ON for the annual Professional Church Secretaries Association Conference in early October. One of the major changes that took place last year was the difficult decision by the Board of Directors to not renew the contract of our Director of Youth Ministries. The H.R. Committee was extremely thankful that Marlee Page, our Director of Christian Education willingly agreed to added responsibilities and she has increased her portfolio by now helping to facilitate and support the RSM Youth Program Leaders as they plan and develop goals and objectives. We recently made some minor changes to our Staff Vacation Policy and are currently waiting for a final decision to be made by the B.O.D. regarding changes to the formal Job Description for the position of Director of Christian Education. Once approved these will be updated in the H.R. Manual for future reference. As you have already heard, the church now has a defibrillator (which hopefully will never need to be used), located in the Volunteer office. The H.R. committee is in the process of compiling a list of members and adherents who have been trained in using these devices. Please get in touch with us so we can add your name to the list of identified users. All employees of the church will be trained in the coming months as well. Finally, as we prepare for the year ahead, please keep the Pastoral Search Committee in your prayers as they begin the difficult and very important process of interviewing potential candidates to fill the soon to be vacant pulpit with the pending retirement of Pastor Moir. On a personal note, it has been a pleasure serving the Lord under the guidance of Pastor Alex these last few years. I wish you all the best in retirement and know you and Linda will continue to keep in touch with your extended Banwell family. You both will be missed! In His service, Rob Adlam, Chair Committee Members: Linda Stevenson, Randy Van Wagner, Helen Wickham

25 Banwell Community Church Annual Report MEN S MINISTRY REPORT The Men s Ministry continues to be blessed and grateful for the support we receive form our congregation. As a result, we are able to continue our monthly food contributions to the Snack Programs at Begley and Marlborough schools. These meaningful and helpful programs are made possible by your generous support of the various fundraisers we provide. Our annual Car Wash ($1,138.00), Recycle Bin ($478.00) and our new venture The Corn Crib made possible by the Bonduelle Co. provided an additional $ that assists us in helping others. We are especially grateful to our community business partners who provide the food for our Snack Programs at considerable savings: Fred s Farm Fresh, Blaks Bakery, Joseph s, Stemmler Bakery and Remark Farms. Once again we enjoyed two successful social events with the Men s Annual BBQ and serving our ladies at the second annual Ladies Dessert Night. A special highlight this year was preparing breakfast for our youth at their weekend retreat in October at Sunshine Point Camp and our annual Men s Great Escape at Wildwood Golf and Country Club facilitated by Pastor Scott Dakin of Ambassador Church. For the first time the Men s Ministry ventured off-site to hold our April Breakfast at Ambassador Baptist Church to support their Men s Group. Our men appreciated the opportunity to join our Youth Group in November for the third year in making ninety-two apple pies to assist in their fundraising. We concluded our year with Men s Sunday in November, led by our own Pastor Vladimir Kralik, and our White Bag Sunday in December. The Men s Ministry are very appreciative to those who volunteered their talents in speaking at our meetings: Frank Ball, Tracy Bevington, Dr. Grayson, Dave Page, Wendell Phipps, Pastor Glen Taylor and Pastor Alex Moir. We are also indebted to Kim Anber who plans and prepares our excellent breakfast menus and to his numerous cook helpers. This ministry is a true blessing as we strive to serve Him and our community. Please accept our sincere appreciation for your ongoing support. Let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another. Hebrews 10:25 Your Executive: Lino Braccio, Chair; Claude Daniels, Jason Martin, Kevin Martin, Bruce Rand and Jim Wheeler.

26 Banwell Community Church Annual Report PROPERTY COMMITTEE Our investigation by Bartlett Restoration under the supervision of ChallEng Engineering was completed this year. The outcome- $250,000 in repairs were needed. Tenders went out and Bartlett got the Job. They have done a lot of this kind of work in southern Ont. and have a good reputation. The work started early in Nov, 2017 and as of Jan. 9, 2018 the work is ongoing due to weather delays. Early Nov also saw the wind damaged roof replaced, except for a small section out back that will be finished after the wall restoration is done. This was covered by insurance. When the exterior is finished the insurance company will pay for part of the repairs in the building and the rest will go out for tender. We are also aware that the hallway needs patching and painting, and will be done by volunteers. Another stain glass window is buckling due to trapped heat. By springtime the specialist will come in and quote us for this repair. The fireplace in the lounge has been working well, and more lights are being replaced with LED. For the second year now we are pleased with the work that our landscaping and snow removal company is doing and have continued their contract. By now you have noticed that the exterior doors are more difficult to open due to reinsulating them. Extra attention is needed to make sure they are fully closed and locked. Thanks to our many volunteers inside and outside who have helped us with small jobs saving us money. And thanks to our custodian Chantelle Bell for the conscientious work she does, and for keeping us apprised of everything that needs attention. Your Property Committee Kim Anber, Chair

27 Banwell Community Church Annual Report MARY & MARTHA S WOMEN S MINISTRY Mission Statement: To be committed to glorifying God and showing the love of Christ by serving and encouraging one another. The M&M s ministry had their first meeting in April There were 6 ladies present and discussion ensued as to the direction this ministry would go. We began with an outreach program being set-up for meals to those in need within our own congregation. This has been a great success with the help of the ladies in the congregation making and delivering these meals. This will be an ongoing ministry. A very successful Harvest Tea was held in October with Rita Demers playing the flute, accompanied by Marsha Campbell on the piano. Our speaker was Linda Moir. A skit was performed entitled Channel Changers. The Proceeds from this Harvest Tea was shared with the House of Sophrosyne (women battling addictions). What a great success this evening was with the Lord s presence very much in attendance. Our last meeting of the year was held in November ; growing to 10 ladies in attendance. We feel the Lord has great plans for this Ministry that is now up and running. A big thank you to all who helped with these past events, without you this would not have happened. Respectfully submitted, Gail Morris

28 Banwell Community Church Annual Report TOGETHER MENTAL HEALTH CARE GROUP This is our first annual report. I am pleased to say that T GETHER celebrated its first anniversary this past November. God has shaped and molded this ministry as only He can and brought people together who have grown in their relationship with Him (and are continuing to rely upon Him daily). In our weekly gatherings we discuss our personal struggles (past or present) living with mental illness and celebrate our highlights. Our time together provides us with the opportunity to pray for one another and share some of the tools which have helped us to get through difficult and challenging times. We may get battle weary but each of us draws strength from one another. One thing is for sure, not only has God provided us with daily courage and hope but brothers and sisters in Christ to walk with us, pray for us and love us for who we are. Thank you, Banwell family, for your support of this important outreach ministry. Yours in Christ, Dawn Michelle Brown, Facilitator Coleen Martin, co-facilitator

29 Banwell Community Church Annual Report MINISTER OF MUSIC REPORT (Looking Back on 2017) January has become known as a time to look forward, to make resolutions and make changes that you feel are needed in your life. Part of that tradition is in the reflection of the previous year and the insight it brings. Indeed there were a lot of wonderful moments in the music ministry last year which I would like to review in this report. I wish to start my reflection off by mentioning that without the partnership, guidance, mentorship, and friendship of Rev. Dr. Alex Moir things would not be what they are at our fine church. Pastor Alex makes my calling here at Banwell so very easy. As we begin to close his tenure here, I must state how much I will personally miss him. The successes of the music ministry are in no small part due to fact that we are supporting an amazing pastor in his work for the Lord. Thank You Alex!! Recently I saw a Facebook post by Ted Shaw stating how busy the parking lot at Banwell Community Church was on Saturday night, Dec. 09. I felt good about that post, and felt confident in answering If the parking lot was full, then we must be doing something right at Banwell, and indeed we are, in all ministries and departments. We truly are blessed as a congregation to be so thriving and vital to our community. Musically we are blessed with variety. We have four praise teams that open the hearts of the congregation through song at the beginning of service each and every Sunday in rotation. The young adult praise team, led by Aaron Blata, sing on the first Sunday of every month, while the other Sundays of the month are filled with the three other teams. The following names are those that make up the roster of Praise and Worship musicians and singers. Praise and Worship Musicians: Aaron Blata, Daniel Blata, Monika Blata, Alan Brown, Marsha Campbell, Andrew Gallant, Hal Herzog, Susan Holmes, Tom Holmes, Brigitte Laskowski, Dan Laskowski, Marjorie Rusling, Mitchell Edgar, Ran Zemmyo Praise and Worship Singers: Aaron Blata, Dawn Michelle Brown, Rachel Brown, Claire Cameron, Marsha Campbell, Ann Clark, Cari Fairley, Kathy Freeman, Ruth Holman, Debra Lemmon, Wayne Lemmon, Gail Morris, Marlee Page, Kodi Page, Terri Prevett, Lois Rindlisbacher, Kim Stevenson, Dave Wickham, Helen Wickham

30 Banwell Community Church Annual Report MINISTER OF MUSIC REPORT Another musical portion of the worship service is the special music or musical anthem as it used to be called. This usually is a piece of music that compliments the Pastor s message in some way and is performed just before or after the message. Our special music volunteers draw from a variety of styles and sounds. They are listed below: Banwell Singers - Choir 4Ever4Hymn - Vocal Group Ruth Holman - Vocalist Trio (Marsha Campbell, Gail Morris, Ann Clarke) The Lemmon Family - Wayne Debra, Emily, Amy Lemmon Brigitte Laskowski - Vocalist / flutist Cheryl Willis - Vocalist Cari Fairley -Vocalist Janice Richardson - Harpist Emily Lemmon - Vocalist Savanna Holman - Vocalist / Trumpet Aaron Holman - Trumpet Hal Herzog - Violin Lois Rindlisbacher / Marsha Campbell Duo - Vocalists Wallie Pizzutti -Vocalist Jamie Dech - Saxophone One of the many blessing about being your Minister of Music is the opportunity to attend conferences such as the Getty s Sing Conference in Nashville that I had the privilege of attending in September. Travelling with me from Banwell were Ryan Richardson, Lois Rindlisbacher, her daughter Jessica and my daughter Avonlea. Now, to say that this changed my approach to worship at large is an understatement. I went through a catharsis and feel worship completely on a new level now and am making an effort to communicate to our church family all that I learned and felt from my time at that conference. Thank You Banwell!! My whole life has really been a journey that has been led by God. I have always followed this journey both willingly and unwillingly wherever He has decided to take me. This past January of 2017 I felt the hand of God leading me to commit my compositional life full time to the Lord and the furthering of His kingdom. As a result of the contacts made in Nashville while there for the conference, I see the Lord putting pieces of the puzzle together for a successful ongoing musical mission involving the composition and production of Christian music for all ages and for use in churches around the world. The first call to action was to compose, produce and perform a Christmas cantata entitled It All Began In Bethlehem with the help of