Annual Report for Calendar Year 2014

Transcription

1 Annual Report for Calendar Year 2014 The Right Reverend Sean Rowe, Bishop The Reverend Elisabeth Fitzgibbons, Priest-in-Charge Cindy Willis, Senior Warden 1070 Dutch Road, Fairview, PA (814)

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Proposed Agenda for 2015 Annual Mee ng 2014 Annual Mee ng Minutes (Mee ng date January 26, 2014) Biographies of Vestry candidates Vestry Ministry Descrip on VESTRY OFFICER REPORTS Senior Warden s Report Junior Warden s Report STAFF REPORTS Parish Administrators Report Nursery School Director s Report DISCERNMENT REPORT MINISTRY REPORTS Acolytes Altar Guild Calling and Caring Ministry Choir and Music Chris an Forma on Adult Forma on Contemporary Bible School Sunday School Middle School Youth Group & The Vine Vacation Bible Study Young Adults Group/20s & 30s Group Coffee Hour Committee Columbarium Communica ons Eucharis c Ministers and Visitors Finance Helping Hands Informa on Technology Lectors and Readers Office Angels Outreach Diaper Bank Parish Life Prayer Circle Property Chandelier Cleaning Lawn Mowing Sewing and Needlework Group Stewardship Ushers Worship Leaders CONGREGATIONAL STATISTICS FINANCIALS 2014 Year-End Statement 2015 Budget 2

3 St Stephens Episcopal Church Annual Mee ng Sunday, February 8, 2015 at 11:15am Proposed Agenda Welcome and Call to Order Opening Prayer and Blessing over the Meal Reading of qualifica ons for voters per Canon 5.B.iv, Canon 1.J and Canon 1.K Reports Senior Warden Junior Warden Nursery School Director 50th Celebra on Worship Update/Recap Cer fica on of Quorum for conduc ng business Thanks to Outgoing Vestry Members Elec on of New Vestry Members and School Board member Introduce con nuing vestry members Introduce vestry and school board candidates Process for taking nomina ons from the floor Nomina ons from the floor Elec on Other Business 2014 Financial Review 2015 Budget Presenta on Report on Vestry Elec ons (if needed) Adjournment and Dismissal 3

4 St. Stephen s Episcopal Church Minutes of Annual Mee ng 26 January 2014 The mee ng was called to order at 1135 am by Sabeth Fitzgibbons, Priest in Charge. Gretchen Tome read the Canons confirming the requirements for vo ng members. A quorum is represented by 25 communicants in good standing. The following were in a endance confirming that a quorum was met with 43. Mary Frances Baugh Dorothy Bloom Donald Eagley Marlene Eagley Nancy Gorman Jack Gregory Kathie Gregory Melanie Gustafson Ropski Isabel Hodgin Vivian Hutchison Don Inderlied Marj Inderlied Janet Johnson Ellen Masteller Mark Masteller Kate Pazder Robert Pazder Cherie Pe t Karen Pe t MJ Radock Nathaniel Ropski Steve Ropski Anna May Rose Bill Rose John Rushe Diana Schaney Ray Schaney Eric Schue e Susan Schue e Carlota Slick Jill Slomski Kaitlyn Slomski Jim Steele Kathy Steele Jess Thompson Gretchen Tome Kevin Tome Bill Ulrich Sharon Ulrich Cindy Willis Floss Willis George Willis Mitch Willis In a endance but not eligible to vote: Danielle Bane Amy Biggs Julien Goulet Kris n Fisher, Preschool Dir Cindy Willis as Senior Warden provided a report of the Vestry over the past year. She referenced Vestry goals and a me table that were set in February 2013 and revisited in the fall. Those goals are listed in her report and include (but are not limited to) approving policies on alcohol use, receiving of gi s, and building use; forma on of the Nursery School Working Group to help them develop a board; suppor ng crea on of the diaper bank; 100% par cipa on in the 13th-month pledge campaign; approved fundraising efforts via Erie Gives, Amazon, and the Script program; suppor ng the Dreaming Day ; and encouraging the forma on of Bible study groups. A Retreat for the newly formed Vestry will be held on 7 to 8 February at Fairview Presbyterian Church. She encouraged parishioners to bring ques ons to the a en on of vestry before the retreat. She also asked all, To pray for us vestry, Sabeth, Parish to hear God s voice in this space at this me. Bill Ulrich was Chair of the Property Commi ee due to a mid-year vacancy of the Junior Warden posi on. He summarized ac vi es over the year to maintain our very good physical plant. Our busy hands removed bushes, replaced pipes, replenished the sand box with 5000 pounds of sand, replaced chains on the swings, placed new carbon monoxide and smoke detectors in the boiler room, and placed a lock box outside for the fire department so they do not have to bust down the doors. Help from others allowed us to replace the roof over the kitchen and burn the big brush pile (as a training exercise for the fire department). Jim Steadman also took a photo inventory of items for insurance purposes. Kris n Fisher is the new Nursery School Director and stated that they are at maximum capacity with 84 students ranging in age from two to five years. On staff there are four cer fied teachers, five highly-qualified assistants, one subs tute teacher, and one subs tute assistant. There are seven classrooms during the week with one teacher and one assistant per classroom, with no more than 15 children per classroom. As a member of the Na onal Associa on of Episcopal Schools, we also par cipate in Pre-K Counts to provide a curriculum that develops the self-confidence of our children. The Preschool also joined with the parish in various Outreach projects including the diaper bank and adop ng a child. Our Open House is set for 9 and 10 February where state representa ves from Pre-K Counts will be in a endance. 4

5 Cindy Willis moved to decrease the number of vestry members from 12 to nine. Seconded by John Rushe. 100% yes with no absten ons. Mo on passed. Sabeth Fitzgibbons thanked the outgoing vestry members (Ellen Masteller, John Rushe, Gretchen Tome, Mitch Willis) for serving during this me of transi on. John Rushe offered insight a er serving on vestry sta ng the lay leadership ma ers with Sabeth and we fuse the mission of the church and our ideas. In terms of St. Stephen s, we are a room filled with ministries not just Sabeth. As a vestry we work on mission and planning as well as communica on. We ve accomplished many things including our love of St. Stephen s to celebrate 50 years, the diaper bank, a deeper rela onship with God, Chris an forma on and welcoming new members and new families, and conversa on about the gi s that God has given us. Sabeth Fitzgibbons introduced the remaining current vestry members (Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, Bill Ulrich, Cindy Willis, and Nicole Buzzard [absent]) and thanked them. Cindy Willis stated the slate of candidates: Nathaniel Ropski to fulfill a vacancy for one year; Dr. Jim Steele to fulfill a vacancy for two years; Don Indrelied, Mj Radock, and Kaitlyn Slomski each on vestry for a three-year term. There were no addi onal nomina ons from the floor. Sabeth Fitzgibbons called the vote, which was 100% yes with no absten ons. Ellen Masteller presented the Treasurer s report and pointed out the fundraising efforts of the Murder Mystery Dinner and the Pulled Pork Dinner, which ne ed $ (correc on from the report that was submi ed). Mitch Willis presented a Budget Review showing monies that are non-nego able and other line items that have been trimmed as much as they can. A breakdown of our current funds (restricted and nonrestricted) indicate that we cannot take any monies from them for the current year. He stated that when we had to replace the roof and the steeple and the sign, we stepped up and easily covered those costs. We need to consider that again with the 2014 budget in order to erase our deficit. Any sugges ons for fundraising would be greatly appreciated. Isabel Hodgin asked about the Diocesan assessment and whether it can be decreased. It was stated that the formula is based on a three-year cycle and is a li le lower but cannot be decreased any more. Nancy Gorman reflected on Stewardship as giving of oneself to God and to the church in terms of treasure, talent, and me. She pledges treasure in thanksgiving to God in her life and family. She shares her talent when she can. And God wants our me in prayer, worship, and service. I believe in St. Stephen s a safe, loving place where you can grow in faith. Where you can watch children grow in the knowledge of God. I encourage you to share me, talent, and treasure. Sabeth Fitzgibbons stated that 18 people went to Second Harvest Food Bank yesterday and packed 480 Senior Boxes, which equated to 7.2 tons of food. Gretchen Tome demonstrated how to use Online Giving. She also indicated where the Amazon bu on will be located on our homepage once that is set. If you shop on Amazon and go through our website, we will get a por on of the proceeds. Cindy Willis men oned the pledge card that was included in the le er that she as Senior Warden had sent the week prior. She asked everyone to please consider giving an addi onal amount or increasing your pledge. They were placed on the welcome table. Sabeth Fitzgibbons thanked many Kathy and Jim Steele for organizing the meal and parish hall the providers of nourishment and the a endees of the Annual Mee ng. The mee ng was adjourned at 1242 pm. Respec ully submi ed, Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, Clerk 5

6 Canons to be read at Annual Meeting The Canons of the Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania s pulate that when the Annual Parish Mee ng is called to order, the qualifica ons for voters shall be read (I.5.B.iii). All person en tled to vote in this Annual Mee ng, are Lay Persons in Good Standing of the Parish, who are physically present, who are at least 18 years of age, who are regular a endants at the services of the local church, and who are regular contributors for the six months preceding the mee ng to the support of the local church and to the work of the Diocese and Na onal Church as shown on the books of the Treasurer. (I.5.B.iv) A Lay Person in Good Standing means any Communicant in Good Standing of some Congrega on in union with the conven on of this Diocese who is not prevented from receiving Holy Communion under the Disciplinary Rubrics of the Book of Common Prayer. (I.1.K) A Communicant in Good Standing is a person whose bap sm has been recorded in this Church, who has received Holy Communion in this Church at least three mes during the preceding year and who for the previous year has been faithful in corporate worship, unless for good cause prevented, and has been faithful in working, praying and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God. (I.1.J) So, to untangle all of that church-speak, you are eligible to vote at this mee ng if you: Are physically present Are at least 18 years of age Have had your bap sm recorded (either originally, by confirma on, recep on, or transfer) in the records of St. Stephen s Have received Holy Communion at St. Stephen s at least three mes in the past 12 months Have been a regular a endant at worship at St. Stephen s Have been a regular financial contributor to St. Stephen s since at least July 2014 Are not a vo ng member of another Episcopal congrega on in this or another diocese If you have ques ons about your personal eligibility to vote, please see Sabeth+. If you are not eligible to vote this year We are glad that you are here as part of our community, and we invite you to participate in the meeting in all other ways. We hope you will continue to worship with us, and become a contributor of record (connect your name with your giving somehow). We invite you to officially join St. Stephen s by attending Episcopal 101 (there s a class forming now for February and March) and being baptized, confirmed, or received (this can happen at Easter!). More information is available from +Sabeth. 6

7 Candidates for Vestry Election ** All are running for a 3-year term ** David Gorman David Gorman grew up at St. Stephen's Church. He graduated from Fairview High School and Bucknell University. He was grateful for the support from St. Stephen's during his year of ministry in Tuy Hoa, Vietnam in Now he is pleased to serve as a Sunday School teacher and to be nominated as a Vestry member. Nathaniel Ropski Nathaniel and the whole Ropski family have been regulars at St. Stephens for almost a decade now. In that span Nathaniel has served as an acolyte, usher, LEM, and a NWPA diocese youth representa ve to two Episcopal Youth Conferences. Outside of church, Nathaniel studies history and poli cal science at Gannon University, hoping to graduate with a double bachelors in He serves on the exec board of 3 clubs at Gannon and has par cipated in mul ple internships while at school as well. These included working for a Senator, adending the 2012 Democra c Na onal Conven on, and helping coordinate the Perry 200 Commemora on. In his free me Nathaniel enjoys watching soccer, hockey, and keeping up to date on all things poli cal. Cindy Willis I have been a member of St. Stephen s since While here I have been involved in a lidle of everything. I have been a Sunday School teacher, Director of Chris an Educa on, Director of Vaca on Bible School, EFM student, Coordinator of Volunteers, Bible study par cipant, Memorial CommiDee, Eucharis c Minister, acolyte, choir member, Vestry member, and even a short s nt as the assistant to the office administrator. Currently I am employed as adjunct faculty at both Gannon University and Behrend College as a chemistry lab instructor. I have served the past two years on Vestry and look forward to another Vestry term during this exci ng me in our parish. 7

8 Job Description Vestry Member All vestry members should strive to the best of their abili es to: Have a love of God and demonstrate a commitment to following the way of Christ; Be ac ve in and knowledgeable about the congrega on its programs and governance; Be fair, interact well with people and strive to earn the respect of the members of the congrega on Purposefully strive to check one s ego at the door; Purposefully strive to be a servant of the people without the need to be the most important person in the congrega on or the need to be the one with the right answers to everything; Have enthusiasm and vitality for this ministry. All vestry members should be able to make the following me commitments during a three-year term: A end 9-12 regular Vestry mee ngs per year; Commi ee work, in the form of, but not limited to, ac ve par cipa on in working task groups of the vestry; Vestry retreat(s) at least one full day/year; Faithful a endance at weekly worship services (rota ng occasionally if more than one); Congrega onal events: coffee hours, meals, fundraisers, adult educa on programs, etc.; Diocesan mee ngs, as necessary; Comple on of Safeguarding God s Children/People training within the first 3 months of vestry service; Annual mee ng of the parish. All vestry members are responsible for: Pledging financial support early in the pledge campaign; Offering talents to support the congrega on s ministry; Praying daily for the rector, leaders and members of the congrega on; Being ac ve ministers of the Gospel in daily life and work; Bringing one s whole self to the table; being present mind, body and spirit; Risking openness with one s ideas, beliefs, and desires. Based on The Vestry Resource Guide p. 67 Revised 10/04/2012 Qualifica ons to serve on the Vestry (per diocesan canon II.5.D) At least 18 years of age Have had your bap sm recorded (either originally, by confirma on, recep on, or transfer) in the records of St. Stephen s Have received Holy Communion at St. Stephen s at least three mes in the past 12 months Have been a regular a endant at worship at St. Stephen s Have been a regular financial contributor to St. Stephen s for the past 6 months Are not a vo ng member of another Episcopal congrega on in this or another diocese Not a cleric Need not be present at the Annual Mee ng to be elected to the Vestry 8

9 VESTRY OFFICER REPORTS Senior Warden Descrip on: The Vestry is a group of people elected by the members of the parish and charged with responsibility for the secular affairs of the parish. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Nicole Buzzard, Don Inderlied, MJ Radock, Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, Nathaniel Ropski, Kaitlyn Slomski, Jim Steele, Bill Ulrich, Cindy Willis Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: approximately 782 hours Accomplishments in 2014: Held a Spring Ministry Fair to acquaint parishioners with the variety of ministry groups and opportuni es available in the parish Finaliza on and adop on of the following policies: Building use fees Gi s policy Finaliza on and adop on of Nursery School bylaws Balance of money in the Memorial Commi ee account was moved from that account to the appropriate Gi s funds as outlined in the Gi s Policy In an effort to be good stewards of our property and possessions, we authorized the sale of a grass vacuum in the storage shed which has been unused for several years. The proceeds of the sale went towards the general opera ng costs of the parish. On a monthly basis we wrestled with the financial issues facing the parish as we examined monthly income and expenditures, a emp ng to keep expenditures at a minimum, and looking at ways to increase income. This was not an easy task as we started with a budget containing no fat and then we faced some unexpected, but necessary building repair costs. Crea on of 50 th anniversary commi ee to supervise the celebra on of this important milestone in parish history. Spent seven weeks in discernment concerning our Priest in Charge and the future of our parish. Assisted Stewardship Commi ee with pledge phone calls. Finalized the establishment of an Amazon account that allows us to receive a percentage dona on on each purchase completed through a link on our website. Created a Communica ons and Welcoming Commi ee which placed new signs in the hallways, designated Visitor Parking spaces in the parking lot, improved our Facebook presence, created our Instagram account, and is in the process of giving our website a new look. Work will con nue on four goals from 2014: To complete the integra on of website, Facebook, Instagram. To develop a marke ng plan to promote ourselves and invite visitors. To finish a New Members Packet To develop a strategy for inten onal welcoming and follow-up with visitors When Vestry meets on retreat at the end of February, addi onal goals will be iden fied. Cindy Willis, Senior Warden 9

10 Junior Warden Descrip on: The Junior Warden is responsible for stewardship of the building and grounds. The Junior Warden convenes the Property Commi ee to assist with planning, staffing, invi ng volunteers, and general maintenance tasks. The Property Commi ee welcomes new members at any me if you have a passion for this ministry, please contact Bill Ulrich. Persons involved in this ministry: Bill Ulrich (Jr. Warden), Don Meeder, Kevin Tome, Eric Schue e, and many other volunteers such as the grass cu ers and weed warriors. Volunteer hours in 2014: 200 Accomplishments in 2014: Property Held mul ple cleanup sessions by parish volunteers to wage our perpetual war on weeds. Visitor parking spaces were marked. Leaves and branches were removed in the spring and fall. The first aid kit is in the hallway for be er visibility and access. A lock box for emergency keys (Knox Box) was installed by the front door. Signage for the classrooms and offices was installed. A photo inventory was made and sent to the Church Insurance Company. The Church Insurance Agency Corpora on inspected our property. See addi onal Property Reports for Chandelier Cleaning and Lawn Mowing. Safety Installed AED, donated by the Steele family, in main hallway. CO monitors installed in the furnace room and kitchen. Fire ex nguisher signage was improved. Maintenance The flat roof over the kitchen was leaking and has been repaired. The dishwasher was overhauled. Coffee grounds were augured from the kitchen sink drain. Many and various light bulbs were replaced. Chandeliers were cleaned. The lawn mower was repaired while private mowers cut the lawn. All outlets in the parish hall are currently working. Heat had to be restored to the chapel and nursery school. Most of the soffit and fascia was painted. There are no major scheduled projects for the upcoming year. Bill Ulrich 10

11 Treasurer s Report Descrip on: The Treasurer reports all financial informa on to the Priest in Charge, Vestry, and congrega on on a monthly basis. Reviews financials, signs checks along with a second signer, chairs Finance Commi ee, prepares annual budgets, par cipates in annual Diocesan audit for church and Nursery School. Persons involved: Don Inderlied, Susan Schue e, Mitch Willis, Cindy Willis, Kathie Gregory, Jack Gregory, George Willis Steve Ropski, Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, John Rushe, Alison Steadman, Danielle Jones Volunteer hours given to this ministry: in excess of 500 Financial Informa on: Pledge income: $211,031 (which includes very successful Erie Gives Day) Plate: $10,046 Total Income: $272,073 Total Expenses: $253,990 Net Income/Expense: $18,033 (this includes a $23,601 reversal of a prior pension contribu on. Without this reversal would have had a $5,518 loss for the year). Very favorable result compared to a 2014 Budgeted loss of $38,357. Balance sheet, Accoun ng Fund Balances, Income/Expense statements as well as 2015 Budget will be reviewed at the Annual mee ng on February 8, Con nue to increase financial well- being of church. Increase Fundraising, Celebrate 50 th Anniversary, establish Planned Giving program. Respec ully submi ed by Don Inderlied, Treasurer STAFF REPORTS Chris an Forma on Associate Descrip on: Chris an Forma on Associate (25 hours/week) is charged with developing and promo ng Chris an Forma on programs (ministries, ac vi es, and events) for Children and Youth from birth through High School and their families. She is also responsible for developing and staffing Young Adult ministry. In 2014, her responsibili es expanded to include New Member forma on. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Please see lists for Sunday School, Vaca on Bible School, and Youth Group; Missy Greene, Sabeth Fitzgibbons St. Stephen s Chris an Forma on programs con nue to grow and bring vibrant ministry to the church. In 2014, we offered family-friendly worship on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. We offered mul -genera onal fellowship and forma on events, like Advent Wreath Making and Cookies, Carols, and Cards at Advent. Children, youth, and families have been invited to par cipate 11

12 more fully in worship ministries. Sunday School, Vaca on Bible School, and a new youth community for middle and high school are growing. Added Nursery Care at the 10:00 AM service, as a way of further welcoming families with young children to worship with us. Angie Jeffrey, a mom of 5 and a former teacher at St. Stephen s Nursery School, is our Nursery Care Giver. Con nued growth in our programs for all ages. More opportuni es for mul -genera onal events and worship. Con nuing to welcome all people into our community and offer engaging programs that promote life-long faith forma on. Respec ully, Missy Greene, Chris an Forma on Associate Music Director Please see Ministry Report for Choir/Music for the report of our Music Director, Sunny Saunders. Parish Administrator In May of this year I joined the St. Stephen s Team through All Seasons Placement. Training was provided by Carol Meeder and Megin Hanely who have a wealth of knowledge about office opera ons and computer programs. When the employment agency contract ended in October 2014, I was official hired as St. Stephen s Parish Administrator (25 hours/week). The office con nues to be a very busy place indeed, u lizing the help of several volunteers to keep up with the numerous programs and changes. Special thanks to this year s office volunteers: Kathie Gregory, Sharon Ulrich, Danielle Bane, Isabel Hodgins. Many thanks to George Willis, who provides our volunteer Informa on Technology support, for all the computer help he provides to the church: without his exper se and availability we would be dealing with many more expenses. Also, a big thank you to Jim Steele and Cindy Willis for working on the worship server schedules and sending them in to the office every month. The office con nues to improve communica on by u lizing our website, Facebook, and MailChimp campaigns. By adding images we hope to catch your eye and draw your a en on to the busy life and ministries of St. Stephen s. Special thanks go out to Kaitlyn Slomski and the Niche Team for volunteered to launch our monthly Facebook Calendar. In the middle of this year, we had a change in our cleaning staff, as Kirk Hardner re red and his daughter Leah Hardner-Orlando took his place. Respec ully submi ed, Danielle Jones, Parish Administrator St. Stephen s Nursery School Director St. Stephen s Nursery School offers children a place to develop emo onally, socially, intellectually and physically in a challenging yet developmentally appropriate se ng and give parents the opportunity to be involved in their child's first school experience through the family associa on, volunteering in the classroom, and a ending programs of interest. 12

13 Our staff and volunteers in 2014 included: Teachers: Kris n Fisher (Director), Cindy Cronin, Kim Spriegel, Jamie Dailey, Maureen Trabold, Sophia French, Karen Borland, Ka e Baldwin, Kim Wernicki, Sheila Causgrove, Amy Biggs, Leah Hardner-Orlando Volunteers: Susan Schue e, Carol Meeder, and too many parent volunteers to name. Accomplishments in 2014: Administra on files are updated and in order; school paperwork, educa onal materials, toys, art & cleaning supplies are organized and labeled. There are monthly staff mee ngs as well as Family Associa on mee ngs Enrollment has increased and we had wai ng lists for the 14/15 school year We have had successful fundraisers to aid our budget The school has partnered with the church on community outreach programs (St. Jude Trike A Thon, Diaper Drive, Thank You Cards to Heroes, Adopt A Child, and Hat & Mi en Tree). During the summer the en re school was given a faceli with a fresh coat of paint and new bulle n boards! Valances for the windows are currently in the works as well. To con nue to build the school as a Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Educa on for our current students as well as those to come in the future. Pursue professional development opportuni es for staff to a end, so we remain up to date on current educa onal procedures, techniques and research. Director to a end Gannon University to obtain Director s Creden als. Classes began in January 2015 Promote the school to increase enrollment numbers. Keep the school running smoothly through con nued organiza on and upda ng of per nent policies, manuals and handbooks. Con nue to partner with the church on Community Outreach Programs as well as infusing Episcopal Values into our everyday teachings. Respec ully submi ed, Kris n Fisher, St. Stephen s Nursery School Director MINISTRY REPORTS Acolytes Descrip on: Acolytes help the priest lead worship by carrying the cross, torches, and Gospel book, and by helping to prepare and clear the Altar at Eucharist. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Emma Bane, Annika Biggs, Jack Biggs, Baron Denniston, Kathie Gregory, David Masteller, Morgan Naylor, Caitlyn Pe t,, Caitlyn Reilly, Lauren Reilly, Emma Schue e,, Steven Tome, Ashley Trabinger, Cindy Willis, and Rachel Willis. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 153 hours 13

14 Refresher training was offered for all acolytes in the fall Robe sizes were checked and new robes assigned as needed New robes in needed sizes were purchased Six of our acolytes graduated high school moving on to college. Five of those re red from ac ve acolyte ministry. Recruitment and training of new acolytes to replaces those who have re red Con nued refresher training for current acolytes Cindy Willis, Acolyte Coordinator Altar Guild Descrip on: The Altar Guild cares for the altar and all the vessels and linens associated with its use in services throughout the year, as well as coordina ng flowers for the sanctuary. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Isabel Hodgin, Nancy Gorman, Sannie Po er, Nicole Buzzard, Carlota Slick, Anna May Rose, Bonnie Miller, Betsy Danowski, Jane O Lexa, Kathy Steele, Corky Anderson, Lynda Burrows, Vivian Hutchison, Dorothy Bloom, Cherie Pe t, Karen Reilly, Danielle Bane, Martha Sinden, Linda McKean, Marj Inderlied, and Andrea Weschler. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: more than 300 hours During the course of the year, the various teams set up and took down the altar for approximately 104 regular services as well as funerals and weddings. They decorated the church for Christmas and Easter services. We lost 4 members from our group, and added 4 new members. We hope to be able to repeat that process for the coming year. As the outgoing Altar Guild Director, I would like to thank all our members for their excellent service and comradery throughout the year. Special thanks to Vivian Hutchison and Bonnie Miller who have graciously agreed to be Co-Directors in Dorothy Bloom, Altar Guild Director Calling and Caring Ministry Descrip on: The Calling and Caring Ministry cares for our church family by keeping in touch with parishioners through regular phone calls and visits. Volunteers for 2014: Nancy Gorman, Barb Bea y, Karen Pe t, Kate Pazder, Dave Danowski, Carlota Slick, Ellen Masteller, Don Inderlied, and Ben Hill Volunteer Hours for 2014: 100 hrs 14

15 Monthly mee ngs from Sept.-May for one hour Learning and reinforcement of communica on skills Prepared dinner for Adult confirma on class Guest Speaker Hope Holben Sent cards to shut-ins, snowbirds, and members we have not recently seen. To recruit more men To con nue to educate the parish about our ministry To explore new ways to be er serve our church family. Nancy Gorman Choir/Music Description: To provide musical delight and inspiration for worship services. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Kathie and Jack Gregory, Debbi and Adrian Brandau, Mary Frances Baugh, Eric Schuette, Jim Steadman, Rachel Willis, Ben Willis, Martha Willis, Matt Hall, Amy Biggs, Emma Bane, Bill Ulrich, Allan Slovenkay, Stan Bogusz, Ashley Trabinger, Kathy Gustafson, Cindy Willis, Carol Meeder, and Emma Schuette. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 260 provided vocal leadership and instrumental music for worship services, discovered and invited several musical talents to be shared. Goal for 2015: to continue to provide musical leadership and inspiration for worship, to welcome people who want to make a joyful noise to the Lord to choir, to discover more musical talents of our congregation. Sunny Saunders, Choir and Music Director Chris an Forma on Chris an Forma on is a life-long process of learning about our faith, our tradi on and God s holy Word, and how they relate to our every day life. We are delighted to offer Chris an Forma on opportuni es for people from preschool through adult years, and even some mul -genera onal ac vi es. Adult Forma on Descrip on: Adult Chris an Forma on this year has consisted of Sunday Morning Bible Study, and the Episcopal 101 workshop series. Adult Chris an Forma on seeks to engage adults with inquiring minds in learning and reflec on about holy scripture, our lived and lively faith, and some mes even the sermon of the day. We gather to learn from one another, as co-pilgrims on a holy journey. Persons involved in this ministry this year: A variety of people led Adult Chris an Forma on 15

16 sessions, including (but not limited to) Kate Pazder, John Rushe, Bill Ulrich, Kevin Tome, Sannie Po er, Jim Steadman, Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, Steve Ropski, Missy Greene, and the Rev. Sabeth Fitzgibbons. Par cipants ranged from age 13 to 96. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: approximately 120 hours. Book study about worship (Liturgical Sense by Louis Weil) Regular Sunday morning Bible Study following the 8:00 AM service, using Feas ng on the Word lec onary-based curriculum 6 session Episcopal 101 workshops, with dinner and childcare provided, a racted 12 mostly-newer adults and 7 were received or confirmed as a result Offer Episcopal 101 again during Lent, to prepare people for Easter bap sm, confirma on and recep on Iden fy and support broader lay leadership for Sunday Morning Bible Study Inves gate the viability of in-worship teaching moments Invite par cipa on and input about possible topics in an engaging way It should be noted that Episcopal 101 would not have happened without the diligent work of Missy Greene, our Chris an Forma on Associate. If you would like to be involved in planning or presen ng topics for Adult Chris an Forma on, on Sunday morning or at other mes, please contact me. From one inquiring mind to yours, Sabeth+ Contemporary Bible Study Description: A study of The Message by Eugene H. Peterson began July 21, Peterson wrote The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language to make the original meaning of the Bible easier to understand and more comprehensible for the modern reader. The study is an open forum in which those in attendance alternate turns reading from The Message and discussion/conversation is intermittent as we are reading. Due to scheduling conflicts and lack of participation, the Contemporary Bible Study ended in Persons involved in this ministry this year: 4 participants Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 2 Involved 4 members of our congregation in reading and discussing holy Scripture. Respectfully submitted by Gretchen Tome Sunday School Descrip on: Sunday School forms and teaches children and youth to be disciples of Christ through scripture stories, art, games, and fellowship. 16

17 Persons involved in this ministry this year: Amy Biggs, Debbi Brandau, Adrian Brandau, Baron Denniston, Cheryl Farkas, David Gorman, Julien Goulet, Missy Greene, Kelly Hayes, Anne Martens, Ellen Masteller, Bonnie Miller, Elizabeth Miller, Cherie Pe t, Eric Schue e, Susan Schue e, Claire Wachter, Kim Whitman Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: approximately 275 Hours We have 18 Sunday School students in our three classrooms divided by age - Pre-K, K-2 nd, and 3 rd -5 th. Two dedicated teachers plan and teach the lessons every week, and we have a group of subs tutes who help as needed. Sunday School provided several mul -genera onal events throughout the year, including special Lenten services and ac vi es; an intergenera onal service featuring Sunday School students as readers, musicians, ushers, etc.; and Advent ac vi es such as wreath-making and Cookies, Carols, and Cards. Over the summer, Amy Biggs was brought on as Sunday School coordinator. Sunday School will con nue to use the Weaving God s Promises curriculum. We will add a Sunday School class as we work to incorporate our increasing age range within the Sunday School program. We hope to see more families and children get involved in our programs. And most importantly, we hope that our children and youth con nue to grow in their rela onship with Christ and be formed as loving Disciples. Amy Biggs, Sunday School Coordinator Middle School Youth Group & The Vine Descrip on: Youth Group is a ministry for middle and high school students to come together for fellowship, forma on, outreach, and fun. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Emma Bane, Jack Biggs, Nicole Buzzard, Debbi Brandau, Sabeth Fitzgibbons, Missy Greene, Kelly Hayes, Caitlin Pe t, Emma Schue e Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 75 hours Started the year off with a focus on Middle School youth and had about 4-5 par cipants. Highlights in the spring include a photo scavenger hunt and baking cookies to be delivered to homebound members of St. Stephen s. Over the summer, a collabora ve youth ministry plan was created by adult leaders from St. Stephen s, St. Mark s, and the Cathedral. The Vine was created as a community for youth in 6 th -12 th grade. The Vine meets twice a month for dinner, forma on, fellowship, and fun; they met seven mes at the Diocesan Church Center, averaging about 18 youth in a endance with 3-5 from St. Stephen s. St. Stephen s will con nue to ac vely par cipate in The Vine community. The Vine will rotate 17

18 loca ons between the par cipa ng churches, having grown too large for the Church Center. It is our hope to see more youth a end. Ac vi es for 2015 will include serving a community outreach dinner at the Cathedral, a focus on prayer, an overnight, and an overnight mission trip within the diocese to Trinity Episcopal Church in Brookville. Missy Greene, Chris an Forma on Associate Vaca on Bible School Descrip on: Vaca on Bible School is a fun, faith-filled week in the summer that brings children from St. Stephen s and the community together for bible stories, arts & cra s, games, and fellowship around a specific theme. This year s theme was Opera on: Son of God and focused on discovering Jesus revealed as God s Son. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Amy Biggs, David Gorman, Missy Greene, Kathie Gregory, Blanche Hill, Vivien Hutchison, MJ Radock, Susan Schue e, Claire Wachter, Cindy Willis Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 250 Hours Hosted 34 children, ages 3-11, from St. Stephen s and the community. Once again, we had a wonderful, hard-working volunteer staff and a fun group of kids. It is my hope that we will con nue to be successful in sharing this fun and forma ve ministry with the both children and adults. We hope to con nue sharing the gi s of the volunteers and the message of the gospel in fun and crea ve ways VBS theme is Shipwrecked and it will be July tell your friends and neighbors! All are welcome! Young Adults Group/20s & 30s Group Descrip on: The Young Adult Group is a ministry for year olds to share in monthly events that are both social and outreach oriented. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Adrian Brandau, Debbi Brandau, Nicole Buzzard, Chris Camilleri, Vicky Camilleri, Baron Denniston, David Gorman, Missy Greene, Emily Shoemaker, Kaitlyn Slomski, and Ashley Trabinger. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 20 Hours The Young Adults group met a few mes in 2014 for social gatherings. It was decided toward the end of the year that the group would change its name to 20s & 30s. We also discussed using a Theology on Tap model to create more consistent gatherings for this group. Brewing Faith was born and will begin in January of

19 The 20s & 30s Group will meet monthly for Brewing Faith at The Public House for conversa on about faith and life. We hope to see this ministry grow and welcome people from the larger community. Missy Greene, Chris an Forma on Associate Coffee Hour Descrip on: This ministry provides coffee with or without "treats" a er Sunday worship services. We also host recep ons for bap sm, confirma on, funerals, Advent tea, Mother's Day, etc. The fellowship that happens because of coffee hour is part of the welcoming habit of St. Stephen's. It has been said that churches with and ac ve coffee hour are growing churches, and we are ac ve.we invite all to par cipate in this ac vity. It takes a li le me on Saturday to set up for the coffee and some cleanup a er the services. It is me well spent and all benefit. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 150 The coffee hour provides a forum of conversa on and friendship. We have been very ac ve this year and feel that this me together helps cement friendship and will con nue to grow our parish. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Steele Family, O Lexa Family, Cindy and George Willis, Dorothy Bloom, Masteller Family, Nancy Gorman, Ropski Family, Schue e Family, Hill Family, Ulrich Family, Carlota Slick, and others whom names are not recorded. To encourage more people to par cipate in this fun and rewarding ministry. We also would like to be able to do more recep ons and fellowship in the coming year. We thank all that have made cookies, sandwiches, etc for all the events. It is really appreciated. Kathy Steele and Ellen Masteller Columbarium Descrip on: Our columbarium is a ministry that provides parishioners a church-based op on for burial. Parishioners and their families and rela ves may purchase a niche in our beau ful columbarium for a reasonable price as a last res ng place for themselves and their loved ones. Persons involved in this ministry this year: The columbarium commi ee consists of nine parishioners: Don and Maureen Eagley, Jane O Lexa, George Willis, Don and Marj Inderlied, Shyla Gunther, and Donald and Carol Meeder. The columbarium grounds have been cared for by Jane O Lexa and her family, Shyla Gunther, and Carol and Don Meeder with other parishioners providing help as needs arise. Volunteer hours given to this ministry in 2014:

20 The accomplishments this year have been to keep the columbarium beau fully maintained and financially stable. Annuals, geraniums and begonias have been donated to add color to the flowerbeds. There are 3 families that are considering purchasing a niche. The columbarium account has a current balance of $ 5, up from $ 4, at the end of To keep the columbarium beau fully maintained for the families of those persons already interred. To smoothly transi on the columbarium opera ons to Shyla Gunther who will be the next chairperson some me during To con nue this wonderful ministry into the next year and for many years ahead. Carol Meeder and Shyla Gunther, Columbarium chairpersons Communica ons Descrip on: The Church Office disseminates informa on to all parishioners through all levels of communica on; striving to meet the needs of all our parishioners at all levels and abili es by making use of several forms of standard and cu ng edge media. Our communica ons include our Prayer Circle, Weekly Announcements which are mailed every other week to those not using , as well as posted weekly Announcements on the hall bulle n boards in large print. Our website offers many ways to find informa on regarding church programs. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Jim Steadman, Gretchen Tome, Kaitlyn Slomski, Missy Greene, Nathaniel Ropski, Debbi Brandau, Danielle Jones, Kris n Fisher, George Willis Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: is es mated at 170 hours. The church s Facebook profile is being used more frequently to adver se and celebrate our ministries and events Implemented MailChimp as our distribu on point for ed announcements Streamlined mailed announcements, now mailed every other week for a cost-savings A Public Google Calendar has been created for all to view upcoming events. We added a quick link from our main webpage to access this calendar easily Added an Instagram account for St Stephen s Vestry added a Communica ons Commi ee to analyze and address changing communica on needs as we ac vely seek to a ract and invite younger families To con nue to improve our communica ons by using new technology and mul ple media applica ons to keep our church family and the community updated with accurate Informa on. Launch a new website that is easier to navigate with quick links to detailed informa on you need. Respec ully submi ed, Danielle Jones, Parish Administrator 20

21 Eucharis c Ministers and Visitors Descrip on: Eucharis c Ministers are licensed by the diocese to administer the bread and wine at communion. Eucharis c Visitors are licensed by the diocese to take communion to members of our community who cannot come to church because of illness or infirmity. Eucharis c Ministers: David Gorman, Cindy Willis, Ashley Trabinger, Andrew Masteller, David Masteller, Steve Ropski, Mj Radock, Floss Willis, Bill Ulrich, Jim Steele, John Rushe, Nathaniel Ropski, Ellen Masteller, Vicki Johnson, Don Inderlied, Nancy Gorman, Dave Danowski, Barb Bea y Eucharis c Visitors: Barbara Bea y, Dave Danowski, Nancy Gorman, Ellen Masteller, John Rushe, Don Inderlied, Bill Ulrich, Jim Steele. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 220 Eucharis c Ministers helped share the sacrament at more than 100 worship services in In 2014, Eucharis c Visitors made 49 visits, sharing the Eucharist with 15 members of our congrega on family. Con nue to serve the parishioners and the Parish in the coming year. James R Steele Finance Descrip on: Finance ministries include collec on counters, accoun ng data entry and recordkeeping, preparing financial reports, and cu ng and signing checks. These invisible ministries are vital to our financial health and integrity. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Kathie and Jack Gregory, Susan Schue e, Alison Steadman, George Willis, Danielle Jones, Eric Schue e, Cindy Willis, Bill Ulrich, Don Inderlied Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 240 Clean diocesan audit for 2013 (audit happens in 2014) Added new, addi onal counters Clean diocesan audit for 2014 Recruit a few more counters Helping Hands Descrip on: Helping Hands is a caring ministry where church members sign up to serve other parishioners in a variety of ways when they need help. Volunteers for 2014: Nancy Gorman and Sannie Po er 21

22 Volunteer hours: 5 hours Accomplishments for 2014: Educa ng the congrega on about Helping Hands Signing up members to par cipate New baby meal delivered in December Con nue to educa on new members about Helping Hands Con nue to grow the number of members who serve others To recruit someone who can co-lead this ministry with me Respec ully submi ed, Nancy Gorman Informa on Technology (IT) Descrip on: The IT (Informa on Technology) ministry keeps the systems and so ware running to support the church ministry which involves the IT ministry which supports the church ministry.. (for those who studied FORTRAN this sounds like an infinite do loop ) Persons involved in this ministry this year: Everyone who used a computer, copier and/or telephone at St. Stephen s. There are many folks who help support by sharing their experiences, understanding the details of the various so ware packages in use, evalua ng new so ware and installing updates. We have some new faces helping this year and bringing their exper se to this some mes mys cal opera on. George Willis, Chris Camilleri, and Debbi Brandau, to name a few. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: It was a good year with li le support needed, a blessing for sure. If I had to es mate, probably 80 person-hours Several new computers were installed to replace the aging infrastructure. Most recently a new copier was installed and so ware for the founda ons of a website upgrade have been implemented. The ministry s ll needs to look at the hardware, server and backup systems to be sure we are most efficiently running our equipment. Respec ully submi ed, George Willis Lectors and Readers Descrip on: Lectors lead the prayers of the people and the psalm in worship. Readers read the Scripture lessons during worship. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Emma Bane, Annika Biggs, Adrian Brandau, Debbie Brandau, David Danowski, Nancy Gorman, Missy Green, Jack Gregory, Kathie Gregory, Melanie Gustafson-Ropski, Isabel Hodgin, Don Inderlied, Caitlin Pe t, MJ Radock, Steven Ropski, Emma Schue e, Erie Schue e, James Steele, Gretchen Tome, Kevin Tome, Sharon Ulrich, Bill Ulrich, 22

23 Terry Warburton, and Cynthia Willis. Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 220 Lectors and readers helped proclaim the word of God and lead worship at more than 100 worship services. Con nue to provide reading of the Holy Scriptures at all services in To encourage new members and parishioners of all ages to par cipate in this ministry. James R Steele Office Angels Descrip on: The Office Angel ministry helps the office staff by covering some of the many tasks and programs the keep the church moving smoothly forward, as well as helping to keep extra office hours down. Persons involved in this ministry this year: Kathie Gregory, Sharon Ulrich, Danielle Bane, Isabel Hodgins, and Susan Schue e Volunteer hours given to this ministry this year: 165 Assis ng with preparing mailings, proof-reading and other helpful tasks, and answering the phone. Goal for 2015: To con nue to use office volunteers to help with office tasks and projects in order to keep staff hours down and church projects on track. Danielle Jones, Parish Administrator Outreach Description: Through the Outreach ministry, St. Stephen s parishioners use their time and talents impact poverty, specifically hunger and tangible necessities, in our community through 4 main projects: Mother s Day/Father s Day Kits, Second Harvest Food Bank, Christmas Outreach, and the St. Stephen s Diaper Bank. Persons involved in this ministry this year: John Rushe, Judy Jones, Kaitlyn Slomski, Debbi Brandau, Ashley Trabinger, Sharon Ulrich, Kathie Gregory, Missy Greene, Kathy Gustafson, Barb McLaughlin, Sabeth Fitzgibbons, Melanie Gustafson, Julien Goulet, Karen Pettit, MJ Radock, Ellen Masteller, Cindy Willis, Nicole Buzzard, Esteban Goulet, Emma Bane; and a special thank you to all those who participated by giving of their time, talents and treasures to this important ministry. 23

24 Volunteer Hours for 2014: 125 hours, excluding the diaper bank Work shift for Second Harvest Food Bank on January 25, 2014 Gifts for 17 children, plus extra hats/scarves/mittens for Community Shelter Services 50 personal care kits plus extra supplies for SafeNet 30 toiletry kits for the City Mission Partnership with Nursery School on Outreach projects Outreach s goals for 2015 is to increase participation in our projects (i.e. having to schedule multiple work-shifts at the Food Bank to accommodate all those that are interested), grow the Kit collection programs so that we can have more hands on involvement. Diaper Bank Description: St. Stephen s will collect diapers (funds), keep count of all diapers (funds), have other organizations have diaper drives on our behalf, purchase diapers with any funds, and distribute to local agencies. Persons involved in this ministry this year: John Rushe, Judy Jones, Kaitlyn Slomski, Debbi Brandau, Ashley Trabinger, Sharon Ulrich, Kathie Gregory, Missy Greene, Kathy Gustafson, Barb McLaughlin, Sabeth Fitzgibbons, Melanie Gustafson, Julien Goulet, Karen Pettit, MJ Radock, Ellen Masteller, Cindy Willis, Nicole Buzzard; and a special thank you to all those who participated by giving of their time, talents and treasures to this important ministry. Volunteer Hours for 2014: 50 hours Raised $476 to purchase diapers & wipes (spent $220.93) Collected 4,984 diapers & 1,896 wipes Distributed collections to SafeNet and Fairview Presbyterian Food Pantry Gannon University s Phi Eta Sigma adopted the Diaper Bank as their project and have donated 666 diapers, 440 wipes and $176 Continue to increase donations, increase our distribution reach, name the diaper bank ministry, make outdoor signs and work on advertising our good works. Respectfully submitted, Nicole Buzzard, Outreach Chair 24