Synode Montreal & Ottawa Conference Conference Call Meeting of the Executive Tuesday, September 17, :00 a.m.

Transcription

1 Page 43 Synode Montreal & Ottawa Conference Conference Call Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. IN ATTENDANCE Rick Balson Rev. Mead Baldwin Rev. Rosemary Lambie Rev. Andrea Harrison Charlotte Griffith Patricia Lisson D.M. Fredrick Sheffer Rev. Trisha Elliott Barbara Reynolds Rev. Lynn Hamilton Rev. Ryk Allen Jim Allen Rev. Daniel Hayward Pasteure Rosa Cruz Claire Borel-Christen Rev. Angelika Piché Carolyn Ruda Kim Baird Joel Miller Rev. Whit Strong Rev. Doug Stewart President, President-Elect Conference Executive Secretary Clergy Rep. to General Council Executive Lay Representative to General Council Executive Chair, Montreal Presbytery Representative Montreal Presbytery Chair, Ottawa Presbytery Representative, Ottawa Presbytery Chair, Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery Representative, Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery Chair, Seaway Valley Presbytery Representative, Seaway Valley Presbytery Co-Présidente, Consistoire Laurentien Représente, Consistoire Laurentien Representative, French Ministry Task Group Chair, Conference Stewardship President, Conference United Church Women Recording Secretary Conference Personnel Minister (West) Conference Personnel Minister (East) REGRETS/ABSENT Rev. Cathy Hamilton Pasteur Pierre Goldberger Larry Richardson Past-President Président, Consistoire Laurentien Staff M&O Conference (Ottawa) 1. Opening Worship (10:10) Trish Elliott Parable of seed and sower. Mark 4:1-9: 1. Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water s edge. 2 He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: 3 Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times. 9 Then Jesus said, Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.

2 Page 44 The Executive was asked to reflect on the following questions: Where have you seen good soil? Where have you been sowing seeds? Comments: The Mission and Service fund sows seeds within congregations; the rocky ground is represented as misunderstandings of what the Mission & Service is and does. St. Columba House is planting new seeds. The rocky ground can be interpreted as a lack of funding. Lack of funding can also be interpreted as rocky ground and the reason for having to let ministers go, and for talking about selling churches, or putting manses up for sale. The question arises: Where will we worship? To overcome this obstacle it has been suggested to remind people that the church is not the building, and to begin thinking about sowing seeds in a place which is outside of a church building, continuing to make the word of God accessible and life-giving, i.e., having a communion service around a camp fire on Georgian Bay. Knox United Church has been doing some visioning and outreach, and are learning that people outside of the regular sphere of church show great willingness to partner up and work towards mission within the community. The Executive Secretary commented on her trip to the Philippines and explained how the positive feedback has been very uplifting. Worship continued with scriptural reflection highlighting that immediately after the parable of the seed and the sower, there is the parable of not putting a lamp under a bowl, the parable of the growing seed, and the parable of what the Kingdom of Heaven is like. These parables speak to the mystery of the growing the seed, where at times, this growing may not be evident. Also, immediately following is the parable is the mustard seed which grows into a huge tree where birds find shelter for their homes. And then there is the bible story of when Jesus calms the storm. The church is in a period of transition, and is being called to look at new ways of doing things, to change. But what remains the same is the call to sow seeds and to shine a light. It cannot always be know what is growing or how it will look, and sometimes there are storms. But in all of this there remains always the face of Christ. 2. Constitution «Au nom de Notre Seigneur, Jésus-Christ, chef souverain de l Église, et par l autorité qui m a été conférée par l Assemblée Annuelle 2013 du Synode Montréal et Ottawa, je déclare ouvert, par la présente, l exécutif du Synode Montréal et Ottawa et ses travaux dans l intérêt du Royaume de Dieu.» In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the only Sovereign head of the Church, and by the authority of the 2013 Annual General Meeting of the Montreal and Ottawa Conference, I hereby declare this meeting of the Conference Executive duly constituted and to be in session for conducting the business which will properly come before it. 3. Approval of Agenda: MOTION: (J.Allen/Baldwin) that the agenda be adopted as circulated. Carried MOTION: (Lisson/R.Allen) that Rick Sheffer be granted voting privileges for this meeting in the role of second representative for Montreal Presbytery, and that Claire Borel Christen be granted voting privileges for this meeting for the Consistoire Laurentien replacing Pierre Goldberger who is attending the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in British Columbia. Carried

3 Page Minutes - Executive Meeting of June 18, 2013 MOTION: (Reynolds/Baird) that the minutes be approved as circulated. Carried The following corrections where made: On page 11of the minutes, under the heading Presentation on the Manual Cynthia Gunn, General Council Office, it was added that: Rev. Lillian Roberts, Secretary of Ottawa Presbytery, was present for this presentation. On page 11, where the words principals and principal appear, were replaced by the correct grammatical spellings principles and principle. 5. Business Arising from the Regular Meeting: 6.2 (November 9, 2012) Effective Leadership 6.2 (April 30, 2013, June 2, 2013) Merrickville, Seaway Valley Presbytery 6.8 (February 19, 2013, June 18, 2013) Central Korean United Church property and manse. 6.8 (February19, 2013) The Incorporation of St. Columba House pending documents Promote the spiritual support, pastoral care, and professional development of Ministry Personnel - Promouvoir le soutien spirituel, les soins pastoraux et le développement professionnel nécessaires au personnel ministériel. i) Correspondence ii) President s Report (See Appendix A) iii) Executive Secretary s Report (See Appendix B) iv) Presbytery Reports Quebec-Sherbrooke (See Appendix C) Background: The Pastoral Relations Committee and the Executive of Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery have responded to the need for more opportunities to receive the Sacraments from the pastoral charges in our Eastern Region of our Presbytery (Metis Beach, Sept Isles and possibly Harrington Harbour in the future). The Conference Personnel Minister (East) and the Executive Secretary have agreed to facilitate this project once we have identified candidates for the Sacramental Elder training course. At the moment, the Session of Metis Beach Pastoral Charge, at a duly constituted meeting attended by the Supervisor, has passed a motion asking that Carol Dube be approved by Conference to take the course. The Presbytery Executive has approved their request and has forwarded her name. We are hoping to present other names from the Eastern Region to this Executive in the near future. MOTION: (Allen/Hamilton) That Carol Dube, a Member of Session of the Metis Beach Pastoral Charge, having been approved by her Session and the Executive of Quebec Sherbrooke, to be enrolled in the Sacramental Elder Training Course, be

4 Page 46 approved by the Montreal and Ottawa Conference as an Elder eligible to take the Sacramental Elder Training Course sponsored by the Conference. Carried There were questions of clarification re process which is Conference Policy, adopted March 20, 2012: Names of proposed participants come from Presbyteries, are approved as eligible by M&O Executive, and following training as outlined in the Policy, individuals names are presented to the Executive for final approval. Ottawa Presbytery (See Appendix D) Consistoire Laurentien (See Appendix E) Seaway Valley (See Appendix F) Montreal Presbytery (No Report furnished) 6.2. Provide leadership in supporting Presbytery efforts to ensure that all Pastoral Charges have ongoing effective pastoral ministry and participate in the formation of new Ministry Personnel - Diriger et soutenir les efforts des consistoires pour que toutes les charges pastorales bénéficient d'un ministère pastoral efficace et sans interruption, et participent à la formation du nouveau personnel ministériel. i) Correspondence a) June 24,2013 Amy Tolhurst, re Con. Ed funding (for information) b) July 18, Darlene Brewer, student from Ottawa Presbytery re financial support for studies (for information) c) August 12, 2013 Lillian Roberts, Ottawa Presbytery Minister re motions of Ottawa Presbytery on June 25 affirming good standing practices outlined on February 13, 2013 (for information) d) August 27, 2013 Jim Allen Chair of Seaway Valley Presbytery re pulpit supply remuneration for Licensed Lay Worship Leaders (for discussion) As provided by the Chair of Seaway Valley: I have found an issue around payment for Licensed Lay Worship Leaders and other lay supply that should be discussed at the September 17 meeting of the Conference executive. Historically, the Salary and Allowances Schedule that governs minimum compensation for Ministry Personnel showed a minimum rate or pay for weekend supply ministry and a minimum rate for Worship Leadership and Preaching. Weekend supply provided for worship leadership and pastoral care. Worship Leadership and Preaching covered Sunday worship only. The 2014 schedule has revised this section. It sets out minimum per diem rates for ordered ministers, recognized Designated Lay Ministers and Students; i.e., persons in student appointments. In effect, it eliminates the notion of weekend supply. This change can have an impact on the payment to lay persons leading Sunday worship. Until now, Seaway Valley Presbytery and, maybe, others have been relying on the minimum rate for Sunday worship as the minimum payment for LLWLs leading Sunday worship.

5 Page 47 I asked Lee Corlett in the General Council Office about this. She clarified that the Salary and Allowance Schedule never was intended to apply to persons who are not Ministry Personnel. Congregations had the option of paying lay people at the same rate as Ministry Personnel but were never under any obligation from the national church to do so. It would seem that, if a presbytery wants a minimum rate of pay for LLWLs, it will have to set its own rate. I would welcome some discussion at the executive table on this matter. I just want to know how the other presbyteries have established the rate of pay for LLWLs and what they are paying. I see no motions coming out of this. I just want ideas that Seaway might consider. Jim is looking for insight from other Presbyteries in order to come up with a policy on paying Lay Worship Leaders ii) iii) iv) President s Report (see report) Executive Secretary s Report (see report) Reports from Continuing Education Funds Applications for continuing education funding are currently being received for Turning Over Tables event in Quebec City. All applications must be received before the event. Education and Students There is a meeting to be had in early November. Interim Ministry There is a continual need for Interim ministers. Some congregations are seeking them and there is a shortage. Internship and Educational Supervision Committee is currently considering sites, forming lay support committees and receiving reports. Ministry supervision is 8 month supervision, whereas Designated Lay Ministry is 3 year supervision. Interview Board will be meeting October 28-30, there are three inquirers seeking ordination, two from Montreal Presbytery and one from Seaway Valley Presbytery. Prevention of Sexual Misconduct There are three workshops coming up (of the nine that are taking place across the Conference), in Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery on the 26 th of September, in Montreal on the 5 th of October, and in Ottawa Presbytery for Licensed Lay Worship Leaders on December 7 th. Letters have been sent out informing people who have to take the training. The Committee is waiting on motions regarding good standing policy to be adopted by Montreal Presbytery, Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery and Consistoire Laurentien (it was noted that Montreal Presbytery will be bringing motions to plenary in a few weeks, Consistoire Laurentien will also be bringing motions to their plenary. The date for the workshop being offered in Quebec City is November 9 th. Racial Justice Training will be offered in Quebec City on November 18 th ). Currently the Committee is doing its best to make sure no one in the Order of Ministry has fallen off the mailing list, and who may not have received a reminder letter (the committee will check for ministry sites that are not pastoral charges and ensure that people are informed). Settlement with fewer settlement requests, the committee is re-examining its Mandate.

6 Page Promote the co-ordination of strategic use of resources through exploring regional cooperation - Favoriser la coordination et l'utilisation stratégique des ressources en explorant les possibilités de coopération régionale. i) Executive Secretary s Report It was noted that participants to Greenbelt in England will be giving a presentation on their experience of the event at the November Executive retreat. ii) French Ministry Task Group (See Appendix G) The Chair highlighted points in English. iii) Youth and Young Adult ministry Shanna Bernier will be back from maternity leave on October 1, Promote efforts/initiatives/support of development and redevelopment of Pastoral Charges and Mission Units - Favoriser les projets de développement et de revitalisation des charges pastorales et des unités de mission, et soutenir les efforts dans ce sens. i) Correspondence a) July 24, 2013 Beverlea Oag, Program Coordinator, Duty of Care and Incorporated Ministries re Accreditation Visit for Union United Church Outreach Ministry (for information) iii) Report from Mission Support: The Conference Mission Support Committee and the Trois Rivières Fund Committee (French Ministry and the Quebec Sherbrooke portion) will be meeting on October 1st to deal with any applications to the Trois Rivières Fund and to plan for the 2 day Mission Support Consultation which will meet just before the Conference Executive in November. Due to the reduction in funding to the Mission Support Budget by the General Council Executive, and following an agreement within the Mission Support Committee and in preparation for our November meeting, the Chair of Mission Support sent a letter to all Presbytery Mission Support Chairs asking them to a advise all past applicants to reduce their requests for funding by 24% for 2014 before they reach the Presbytery and then Conference level. v) Reports from the Rideau Hill Camp (see Seaway Valley Report) Ensure ways of providing a collective Conference voice on public Christian witness S'assurer de faire entendre la voix collective du Synode comme témoignage chrétien sur la scène publique. i) Correspondance a) July 10, 2013 Bishop Elmer M. Bolocan Executive Secretary, Ecumenical Bishops Forum, Philippines re Lac Megantic (for information) iii) Executive Secretary s Report For further details see report regarding what has been done in response to Lac Megantic tragedy. Also, see report concerning various responses regarding Charter of Values. Church House would prefer Conference responds on its behalf, and the Moderator will not issue a response. Montreal Presbytery has formulated a response based on the Taylor Bouchard Commission and reasonable accommodation. The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs has

7 Page 49 formulated a good response. Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery has been encouraging responses by providing contact information to Pauline Marois office using various communications streams, and is considering how to formulate a response. Consistoire Laurentien has been in consultation with various ecumenical groups (see presbytery report) considering that the Bill itself has not yet been assented. Executive members were asked to please carbon copy the Conference Executive Secretary and the Conference President when sending out press releases. The Executive Secretary is sending a letter to the Quebec Premier s office in French and English, which will be sent to members of the Executive prior to it being sending out. In order to obtain a copy of the Accommodation document contact Rev. Faye Wakelin, Chair of JGER Committee, for a copy. iv) Reports from AGM 2014 planning; meeting monthly and information to come. JGER (planning team meeting to be held next Monday to discuss workshops and follow up with proposals gone to General Council in particular the proposal on Global Oceans and how to respond to that proposal. The Committee had an opportunity to meet with Joy Kennedy in August and had good discussions, in particular, implementation of said proposal within Synode Montreal & Ottawa Conference and eventually throughout rest of Canada Provide an inspirational link between local United Church communities and the United Church of Canada as a whole community - Devenir un pont et une inspiration entre les communautés locales de l'église Unie et l'église Unie du Canada comme communauté d'ensemble. i) Correspondence a) August 2, 2013 Nora Sanders, General Secretary, General Council re Remit 6 and a reminder that all remit responses are due February 18, (for information) Consistoire Laurentien is currently waiting for French translation of Remit 6. ii) President s Report (also see Executive Secretary report as well, regarding 125 anniversary at Pendleton, Celebration at Kanesatake commemoration bell) iii) Executive Secretary s Report (National Event Turning Over the Tables) iv) Report from General Council Executive Representatives (There is going to be a change in the process for how people can be nominated to serve on Committees. There will be a general nominations form for people to submit who are interested in serving on the General Council committees. There will be calls put out at various times with the goal of filling positions that become vacant throughout the year, i.e., fill in resignation due to sickness, there is a need more representation, etc. The motivation for these changes are to reduce costs (number of times the nomination committee convenes in Toronto, to disperse the workload throughout the year and not just in the fall also not to have to wait until the fall for new representation to be nominated). v) Reports from Communications (Kent Chown has been working on the Conference website, a committee meeting is to be called in October, a report will be forthcoming at the November Executive.),

8 Page 50 UCW (See Appendix H for Conference UCW Newsletter V1. The Chair has asked to be invited to presbytery UCW meetings in order to introduce herself and this idea was well received. It was suggested that she speak with the Rev. Doug Stewart, Conference Personnel Minister, as well as the Chair of Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery in order to retrieve an invitation from Ann Hanes Clark to attend the upcoming Presbytery UCW meeting in spring. An invitation to attend the upcoming Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery meeting was extended to the Chair as well. It was noted that the Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery meetings may be occurring more frequently in the future which may allow for some planning flexibility. It is the Chair s hope to have the opportunity to speak in each of the Presbyteries to introduce herself and the Conference UCW, and for time on presbyteries agendas to be created to allow for this to happen. It was noted that Ottawa Presbytery was taking a thematic approach to meetings and some consultation would need to be done in order to see where UCW can fit. 6.7 Promote whole-life stewardship - Promouvoir le soutien de la vie dans ses diverses dimensions. i) Report from Stewardship Committee (See Appendix I / Stewardship Fall 2013 Newsletter see Appendix I.i) 6.8. Provide administrative effectiveness in the art of making our Conference life happen. - Fournir l'efficacité nécessaire à la pratique de l'art de faire vivre' notre Synode. i) Correspondence a) July 16, 2013 Arlen J. Bonnar, Secretary and Lynda Ecott, Montreal Presbytery re updating pending police records checks (for information) b) August 21, 2013 Norma McCord, Chair of the Joint Management Committee, United Church Regional Centre, copied on letter addressed to City View United Church re renewal of current lease for space (for information) ii) iii) President s Report (Conversation with Presidents brought out diversity across Country re terms for Presidents and for when AGMs occur. The President will bring to the November Executive more information). Executive Secretary s Report (See Appendix J Cemetery Report.) Denis Marcoux has created a database of cemeteries within the conference based on data he has collected from pastoral charges. There are still some congregations that have not responded and members of the Executive were asked to follow-up within their Presbyteries to remind congregations to provide information. Any Pastoral Charges with acting trustees overseeing cemeteries are asked to respond. Even if the cemetery is a community cemetery it would be helpful to have the contact information for the cemetery should someone call inquiring. The compiled list of cemetery information will be made available on the Conference website. MOTION: (Balwin/Ruda) that, in addition to the expenses claimed of $64,546.63, $70,000 be repaid to the Finance and Extension board of the Montreal Presbytery from the proceeds of the sale of the Central Korean United Church. Having received correspondence from Montreal Presbytery on June 14, 2013 regarding the remaining net assets from the sale of the Central Korean United Church which

9 Page 51 disbanded December 31, 2010 and was sold on March 18, 2013 for $575,000, the Synode Montreal and Ottawa Conference agrees to the first recommendation proposed by the Montreal Presbytery, such that it is just and reasonable that a sum of $70,000 be repaid to the Finance and Extension Board of the Montreal Presbytery. Synode Montreal and Ottawa Conference recognizes this not as a legal, but as a moral response to the Board s generosity many years ago when the Central Korean United Church was sold the Ville Émard Pastoral Charge property for $1, forgiving an outstanding grant of $70,000. Carried Discussion: It was noted that funding and the lack thereof has its demands across the country. All of the Presbyteries are experiencing a cash crunch, and Montreal is no exception, i.e., Saint-Columba House. MOTION: (J. Allen/Ruda) that having received correspondence from Montreal Presbytery on June 14, 2013 regarding the remaining net assets from the sale of the Central Korean United Church which disbanded December 31, 2010 and was sold on March 18, 2013 for $575,000, the Synode Montreal and Ottawa Conference does not concur with the second recommendation proposed by the Montreal Presbytery. After the cost of the sale to the Notary of $40, and the expenses of $64, incurred between December 31, 2010 and the sale of the property, and the payment of $70,000 to the F&E Board, in recognition of its previous generosity to the Central Korean UC (an outstanding grant), there is a balance of $409, While the recommendation of the Montreal Presbytery is that said money be returned to the Finance and Extension Board of the Montreal Presbytery, it is the decision of the Synode Montreal and Ottawa Conference to retain said funds such that they be available for the benefit of the entire Conference for future ministry possibilities, including but not limited to the cost of working with our Overseas Partners, those receiving Mission Support, increased Archival services due to closing congregations, Youth and Young Adult ministry, and new initiatives. According to The United Church of Canada Manual (2010 sec. 270, 334 & 428) which was in effect when the recommendations were made by Montreal Presbytery, and the Manual now in effect (2013 sec G 1.5.7, D 2.11), it is the Conference who is responsible for making a decision on the use of the property of a congregation that remains after the congregation has disbanded. We are grateful to the Montreal Presbytery that these funds will allow them to be a benefactor for the entire Conference. (MOTION DEFERRED) There was concern over whether this decision was a change in Conference policy, or precedent-setting. The UCC Manual has clear policy about property sales. In the past, decisions regarding distribution of assets have been discussed on an individual basis and motions have come requesting proceeds from sales, e.g. St-Andrew s Norwood, there was money declared as surplus following an amalgamation with Mount Royal. Montreal Presbytery asked to retain these surplus funds which was voted on by Conference Executive. Following the sale of Calvary United, Montreal Presbytery asked to retain the funds to be divided between two congregations, Deux-Montagnes and Northlea United, specifically for French Ministries funding and the Conference Executive agreed. When the Trois-Rivières congregation disbanded following the sale of the church in Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery, they

10 Page 52 provided a very detailed plan for sharing the proceeds between the QSP, The United Theological College specifically for French Ministries, Francis Sandy for Aboriginal ministries and the Conference for French Ministry. The Conference honored every one of those request in detail. When Ottawa Presbytery was selling a piece of property they asked to retain the funds and specified what they planned on doing with it. Seaway Valley presbytery has also consulted on occasions about property sales. This situation has arisen because the Central Korean United Church congregation was disbanded in December 2010 by action of Montreal Presbytery. The Conference was made aware of it by the General Council office which was extremely upset that one of their intercultural ministries was being told that their ministry was not viable and the minister had to move out of the manse. The buildings have been empty for two and a half years, while insurance and heating has been maintained because there was no buyer in place when the congregation ceased to exist. So there has been an extensive amount of money gone into keeping a vacant building open. There has been an amount of money spent for keeping the building and manse available for sale, hence the Motion above, agreed that said amount will be paid back. M&O Conference received a letter in June 2013 without any plans regarding the assets, but a detailed accounting of the cost of the sale. There was a request that the Finance and Extension Board retain the balance of proceeds. The sub-executive met over the summer to prepare the motions. The Manual is very clear that a congregation should plan, before it disbands for the sale of property, and if the congregation disbands before the property is sold, the residual from the sale is for the benefit of everyone. Conference Grants have been cut by 15 percent and it is going to be cut again this year because the General Council is still running a seven million dollar deficit. The Conference revenue generation money has been cut completely, continuing education funds are being cut back every year, and there is no guarantee that it is going to get them again after this year. Budget cuts are having an effect on the Conference s ability to care for five Presbyteries, some of whom have far greater assets in buildings and land than do others. The proposed motion, based upon UCC policy, would allow Conference to make resources available for five Presbyteries so that the Conference can share in this ministry together. MOTION: (Lisson/Elliot) that the motion be deferred to November Executive. (Carried) There was a request for a set of criteria to be established for the November Executive which will help establish how sharing of surplus funds is to take place. The Conference President asked each of the Presbyteries to provide a list of building sold in the past and an outline of what has been done with the funds. It was noted that, as members are being asked to consider planning ahead for the future and how to divide up surplus funds, that the Manual be consulted, as it is the governing statute for all sales of property belonging to the United Church of Canada.

11 Page 53 iv) Reports from Archives, Finance (See Appendix K): MOTION: (Reynolds/Hayward) to accept the financial report as prepared. Carried The Conference s financial status is fairly normal for this time of year. It is currently reporting a deficit of $ 24,811 compared to a budget deficit of $ 22,745 The general council grant and salaries are as of 7/31/2013 so one month behind (this is the normal practice) No interest is reported at this time, the Conference is not reporting any investment growth either for the General Fund, or any of the TR or James Baillie funds The Conference does not have the McGill accommodation expense for the AGM at this time There has not been a Clarion in 2013 no expenses Continuing Education --- $ 7,000 covered the Greenbelt trip for 7 persons Trois Rivières The Conference has spent $ 15,000 from the M&O portion, but in addition, $ 5,000 has been approved and not spent. These expenses will be paid directly as they occur to cover addition French music resources 7. Other Business MOTION: (Reynolds/R. Allen) that the signing officers of the Montreal and Ottawa Conference be the following: Rosemary Lambie, Larry Richardson, Ron Olsen, Neil Wallace, Norma McCord and Rick Balson. Carried Staff, Nominations Committees 8. Future Meetings Thursday, November 7 10 am 9:00 pm Retreat, Fri. 8 9:00 am noon business, joined by GC Commissioners 1:00-4:00 pm at Villa St. Martin. Gouin Blvd, Montreal. QC (Worship by Carolyn Ruda) Tuesday, February 18, 2014 conference call 10 am 12 (Worship by Kim Baird) Tuesday, April 29, am 4 pm, in Lachine; 1:00-4:00 pm GC with commissioners (Worship by Barbara Reynolds) Friday, May 30 - Sunday, June 1, 2014 AGM at John Abbott College Tuesday, June 17, 2014 Expanded Executive, 10 am 4 pm Lachine (Worship by Mead Baldwin) 9. Closing Prayer Rev. Whit Strong 10. Adjournment (12:21) MOTION: (Reynolds/Piché) That the meeting be adjourned. Carried Rick Balson Conference President Rev. Rosemary Lambie, Conference Executive Secretary

12 Page 54 Appendix A President s Report Pages Appendix B Executive Secretary s Report Pages Appendix C Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery Report Pages Appendix D Ottawa Presbytery Report Pages Appendix E Rapport du Consistoire Laurentien Pages Appendix F Seaway Valley Report Pages Appendix G Rapport de la Table de concertation M&O Pages 73 Appendix H M&O Conference U.C.W. Report Pages 74 Appendix H(h) M&O Conference U.C.W. Newsletter Pages Appendix I Report from the Conference Stewardship Committee Pages Appendix I(i) Stewardship and Mission & Service Newsletter Fall 2013 Pages Appendix J Cemetery Project Report Pages 90 Appendix K Financial Report August 31, 2013 Pages 91-92

13 Page 55 Appendix A President s Report Report from the President s meeting on Sept. 10, 2013 Roundtable by Conference: Nfld. - District meetings coming up (East and West) - Even keel at this point Maritime - Raising money for the new archives - Looking to become an affirming conference studying the implications B. of Q. - Looking at becoming an affirming conference - set up an Equity Committee - Had advertised for a person to do transformational ministry but had no applicants - using the $169,000 to do transformational work in the conference Toronto - Pastoral Relations (Effective Leadership) pilot conference and they are changing everything o Went live on July 1, 2013 o No JNACs or joint searches since then o No triennial meetings since then asking for annual goals from congregations Hamilton - Exec meeting on Thursday and change will be the main theme of the meeting o Another major discussion piece will be around conference meetings, including AGM a report is to be circulated on options - Pilot for the Effective Leadership trial London - Also involved in Effective Leadership pilot but not following Toronto lead of using on-line capacity. o Already transferred PR from the presbyteries to conference o Working with congregations to develop mission statements - Working with presbyteries to understand what is a priority for conference activity - There are some conference staff vacancies looking at options on what to do with these positions. - Taken the first steps in becoming an affirming conference All Native Circle Lorna - Cuts are the big concern looking at impacts Phil

14 Page 56 - Great Lakes Waterways Presbytery met in Quebec City In survival mode budget does not fit their needs Will survive - All ministers have lost travel and Con. Ed. Money concerned that salaries will have to be cut o Phil s philosophy is that they will survive, that God will provide. Has challenged the presbyteries by asking if they truly believe this or are they just playing at being church? Manitoba/NW Ontario - New Exec. Sec. - Winnipeg is a very conflicted place right now and has asked for a Commission this is a new experience for the Conference - Exec. will be having a discussion on AGM cannot afford to continue to hold annual meetings Sask. - At the AGM this year, voted to not have an annual meeting in o Trying to figure out how to their celebration of ministry (ordination, commissioning, retirements, deaths) o 2015 will have an AGM - Planning to visit the presbyteries o An overall sense of disconnection (presbyteries/conference) o No one knows who is doing what - There will be a conference-wide new comers event at Calling Lakes o President has been asked to explain the role of conference Alberta - Meeting every 3 years for an AGM - Will have a mid-triennial meeting this year on All Saints weekend o President will coordinate o Emphasis will be on healing and connecting - There will be a TRC event in March 2014 and they are working on that event o In preparation a meeting in Slave Lake 10 people from the congregation attended as participants Nora Saunders - With Carol Hancock retired, Nora is filling the role of liaison with Presidents. Admin and support is with Diane Bosman. - Please call either with questions, concerns or to talk - This is interim, until end of Comp. Review but then, who knows? - The Management Group is now inviting an Exec. Sec. to sit in on its meetings. The GC person that attended the conference s AGM is to be a liaison person (conference to Management Group). Gary Paterson - CR Task Group o Meeting next week and will resume monthly meetings

15 Page 57 o Requested everyone to encourage congregations to participate o Several hundred have now either had a conversation or signed up for one o Conversations will continue to the end of Oct. o Start looking at trends towards the end of Oct. o This will lead to more concrete proposals/options being developed and sent to Conference Exec and Presbyteries for editing suggestions o Returns to Task Group for another round of discussions and then to AGMs in the spring o AGMs will be asked to refine the proposals o A web platform is being constructed by GC Anyone who participated in a conversation will be asked to participate in the web discussion. Others will also be invited - Question how tight is the end of Oct.? o Answer tight but not definitive - Question how long will CR want on AGM agendas? o Answer as much as possible but at least 2 hours Greenbelt UCC leaders attended - The Moderator s goal was to provide an opportunity to excite and transform those leaders that attended the event he felt that goal had been met. - Learnings o we need to provide more opportunities for church leaders to gather at a time and in a venue where business is not the objective o he has no specific plans to create such a large gathering in Canada out. o o o o the Learning Cohorts will continue to meet he is looking at the possibility of having a series of mini belts, possibly in Toronto and/or Vancouver. Peterborough is looking to do something as a regional event and Pix Butt is thinking of doing an event in the Maritimes. Wondering if an extra day might be attached to other meetings such as AGM s with a focus on justice and arts. Gary felt that the participants would like support on how to move the information o In conversations with the Wild Goose organization (the USA equivalent to Greenbelt), they encouraged the United Church to not try to stick to a denominational model - Gary also mentioned that he is wondering about other models for AGM and mentioned that the United Church of Christ in the USA used a model that was different to ours he attended a couple of days of their AGM

16 Page 58 Appendix B Report of the Executive Secretary Tuesday, Opening Remarks: Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. Helen Keller 1. Promote the spiritual support, pastoral care, and professional development of Ministry Personnel - Promouvoir le soutien spirituel, les soins pastoraux et le développement professionnel nécessaires au personnel ministériel. The Conference Personnel Ministers have teamed well, handling pastoral charge challenges and ensuring there was support for both ministry personnel and ministry sites over the summer months, connecting with those new to the Conference and preparing for fall workshops. 2. Provide leadership in supporting Presbytery efforts to ensure that all Pastoral Charges have ongoing effective pastoral ministry and participate in the formation of new Ministry Personnel - Diriger et soutenir les efforts des consistoires pour que toutes les charges pastorales bénéficient d'un ministère pastoral efficace et sans interruption, et participent à la formation du nouveau personnel ministériel. The Effective Leadership projects will resume this fall. The focus on Pastoral Care and Oversight visits has included a rewrite of documents collected from the presbyteries to create a consistent tool. Testing and polishing was done in trainings with Quebec-Sherbrooke teams who will try a new model on September 22. The focus on Pastoral Relations is being discussed with the presbytery P.R. committees including evaluating several possible tools. Regular conference calls are being held across the country to share ideas and success stories as each Conference identifies needs and develops tools locally. An Orientation Event for all ministry personnel new to the conference is organized for October The Conference Interview Board will be meeting four students in late October to continue recognizing those who studies are guiding them on the paths to ministry. The Committee on the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct will conduct more mandatory Sexual Abuse Awareness Workshops through the autumn and reminder letters have been sent. 3. Promote the co-ordination of strategic use of resources through exploring regional cooperation - Favoriser la coordination et l'utilisation stratégique des ressources en explorant les possibilités de coopération régionale. The Youth and Young Adult support Committee will reconnect in October with Shanna s return from maternity leave. There is still need for a chair for this committee and some presbytery representation but meanwhile there has been enthusiasm amongst the youth themselves, particularly on Facebook and youth forums are planned for the fall. Shanna has been part of the planning team for Camping Connections 2013 and will be attending that event in Vancouver as a warm up to returning to M&O s position.

17 Page 59 The French Ministry Task Group met around the table, with Lynn on Skype and the new Responsible, Kristine on a conference call. There was energy and excitement to move forward with projects which will help engage others and create resources. We also reviewed available resources in the Trois-Rivières Fund to ensure that we are being responsible with choices, but also engaging with the possibilities. Several members of the Greenbelt group kept in touch with a blog and posting on Facebook and Mead will coordinate their reporting to the November Executive meeting. 4. Promote efforts/initiatives/support of development and redevelopment of Pastoral Charges and Mission Units - Favoriser les projets de développement et de revitalisation des charges pastorales et des unités de mission, et soutenir les efforts dans ce sens. The Mission Support Committee has a conference call scheduled for October 1, and a working meeting on November 5-6 to review funding requests for our ministries supported by Mission Support funds. 5. Ensure ways of providing a collective Conference voice on public Christian witness S'assurer de faire entendre la voix collective du Synode comme témoignage chrétien sur la scène publique. The tragic train crash in Lac Megantic on July 6 created a situation to raise the profile of the United Church. I am deeply grateful to the liturgical contributions of Denis Fortin and Darla Sloan, and the political fortitude of Sally Meyer. The generous spirit of Reg Jennings and the congregations of Richelieu Valley and Mount Bruno have raised over $4000 and information updates were transmitted by Lynn Hamilton. It was a challenge to engage the wider church and the General Council office because without a local congregation, the need to communicate in French, and people being on vacation, communication was slow and laborious. The proposed Charter of Quebec Values has raised alarm bells for many within our church circles, and again the national office is asking if they should be helping or is this just a Quebec problem. We need further discussion about how the Conference should respond. The AGM planning committee has reviewed the evaluations of 2013, discussed some of the challenges and possible changes to scheduling, and have set monthly planning dates for AGM Provide an inspirational link between local United Church communities and the United Church of Canada as a whole community - Devenir un pont et une inspiration entre les communautés locales de l'église Unie et l'église Unie du Canada comme communauté d'ensemble. Summer was a time of celebration in many parts of M&O and I delighted with sharing in Chesterville for a retirement celebration for Rev. Wendy, the end and de-covenanting of a pastoral charge combined with the blessing and launch of the new ministry of Christ Church United. I participated in the 106 th anniversary of Union held under tents set up on Delisle Street in Little Burgundy, in the 125 th anniversary of Pendleton surrounded by cornfields. I shared my Philippines presentation with a combined service of the Elgin-Portland pastoral charge, Bay of Quinte Conference and with Britannia United in Ottawa who are interested in twinning. It is encouraging to

18 Page 60 see the support for our global partners in the Philippines. In late July, a first for me and Westmount Park United was a wonderful day of blessing pets, including cats, rabbits and over 50 dogs of a breeds and energy. It was a wonderful opportunity of ministry to the community at large. The fall has brought a dedication of the Bell tower reconstructed at Kanesatake United along with blessing a pictorial history book produced in Mohawk, English and French and their new hymn book. These are all projects that have resulted from the funding of language development. The little church was overflowing. On a sadder but proud note, I represented the Conference at the funeral for Rev. Dr. Stanley Frost who made wonderful contributions to the life of McGill and Montreal Presbytery during his long life. A national event Turning Over Tables will be held in Ste Foy, QC October and I have been part of the initial planning team, and trying to encourage participation from across the Conference, but specifically the need to recruit volunteers from our two Quebec City congregations. I have maintain contact throughout the summer with the Working Group on United for Mining Justice, posting on the Facebook Group and sending letters to politicians regarding the petition that resulted from the Beaconsfield Proposal at General Council. 7. Promote whole-life stewardship - Promouvoir le soutien de la vie dans ses diverses dimensions. The Stewardship Committee has renewed leadership but needs the continued support of the presbytery and local committees and ministries. Carolyn Ruda has prepared worship for September 22, the fourth Sunday being designated as a Stewardship Sunday. The material will be posted on the M&O website in both languages and has been sent to the presbyteries for distribution. Eileen is representing the Conference on a working committee with the Anglican church to plan an event for Nathan Duggan in June 2014 at Kemptville. 8. Provide administrative effectiveness in the art of making our Conference life happen. - Fournir l'efficacité nécessaire à la pratique de l'art de faire vivre' notre Synode. I have worked with Denis, and responded to some strange, even alarming situations regarding our cemeteries, and a separate report is attached. There is continued need for information from the presbyteries to ensure duty of care and responsible accountability. Correspondence has been attended to, and the sub executive met by conference call in early September to address one item (Central Korean United Church). Holidays are almost completed and staff calls and meetings are planned for September 13, October 11 and a retreat is set for November 6 prior to the Executive. Our main focus will be on the Effective Leadership and implications for the workload of the staff team. Shanna Bernier will return from maternity leave to her YAYA contract beginning October 1 st. Respectfully submitted, Rosemary Lambie (Rev.) Executive Secretary

19 Page 61 Appendix C Report of Quebec- Sherbrooke Presbytery Tuesday, 1. Promote the spiritual support, pastoral care, and professional development of Ministry Personnel - Promouvoir le soutien spirituel, les soins pastoraux et le développement professionnel nécessaires au personnel ministériel. Support: Newly called minister, The Rev. Lee Ann Hogle, will attend the Orientation Event for all ministry personnel new to the conference in October Education: Development of Ministry Personnel - Israel-Palestine conversation will be informed by Michel Seguin (recommended by QSP World Outreach Committee) via a two hour presentation to be made in the context of the QSP plenary September Sexual Misconduct Workshop: The QSP plenary meeting (September 25/ at Sherbrooke QC) will include the four hour Committee on the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct s Sexual Abuse Awareness Workshop (led by Whit Strong). Attendance for Ministry Personnel, Lay worship leaders, and others active under the Presbytery s oversight is mandatory. 2. Provide leadership in supporting Presbytery efforts to ensure that all Pastoral Charges have ongoing effective pastoral ministry and participate in the formation of new Ministry Personnel - Diriger et soutenir les efforts des consistoires pour que toutes les charges pastorales bénéficient d'un ministère pastoral efficace et sans interruption, et participent à la formation du nouveau personnel ministériel. Covenanting: The covenanting service between QSP, The Ayers Cliff/Magog/Georgeville Pastoral Charge, and the Rev. Lee Ann Hogle is scheduled for 3 Nov at 3pm at Ayers Cliff QC. Generous support for organization and liturgy of the covenanting service offered by the Rev. Martyn Sadler (Retired). QSP grateful to the Rev. Sadler for sharing his wisdom, liturgical expertise and resources, and for offering support and care to the planners. CIB: QSP Members of the QSP Conference Interview Board (David Lambie, Robyn Osborne, and Lynn Hamilton) plan to attend the CIB meeting in late October to continue recognizing those who studies are guiding them on the paths to ministry. 3. Promote the co-ordination of strategic use of resources through exploring regional cooperation - Favoriser la coordination et l'utilisation stratégique des ressources en explorant les possibilités de coopération régionale. Conference President Elect : Quebec Sherbrooke Presbytery prays all good things for The Rev. Mead Baldwin (QSP Waterville/North Hatley), and the Conference, in his ministry as President- Elect of Montreal-Ottawa Conference. Youth and Children: QSP looks forward to the return of Shanna Bernier from Maternity Leave in October QSP supports the virtual desk of YAYA and has agreed to support the ministry with $ Report and Financial Statement from QSP Camp Committee will be presented at plenary

20 Page 62 meeting September Sixty two campers were on site for the 2013 Camp Program. Initial reports suggests the camp was a resounding success. The Facebook page records positive comments from campers, parents/guardians, and leaders. An article on the camp appeared on the front page of the Sherbrooke Record newspaper. More detail can be found at French/Bilingual Ministries: The TABLE DE CONCERTATION M & O met around the table in early September, with Lynn Hamilton attending via Skype. Sacramental Elder Training: A Sacramental Elder training program, being developed by Doug Stewart, Minister for Personnel & Congregational Support, will benefit and support QSP ministries, particularly those ministries in Eastern Region (relatively remote locations). We appreciate this attention, care and support from Conference level. The Metis Beach Session has formally requested the training for one of their Elders. There may also be interest in the program from Harrington Harbour/Chevery, Sept Iles, and K.I.T. pastoral charges. Also, QSP is delighted that elements of Sacramental Elder program are now available online a minimal cost. There may be cross application on the Sacramental Elder training piece in the contexts of French language/bilingual ministries. Technology: QSP is exploring, with the support of Conference, technological solutions that may contribute to fuller participation in the life of the church by UCC members and adherents, particularly in geographically remote locations. Further, as budgets are reviewed, QSP Executive estimates that there may advantage to using technology to supplement face to face meetings in varied specific and local contexts (QSP Exec, Committee meetings, QSP training initiatives ). QSP is grateful to Conference for their leadership and willingness to share insights on use of the technology in ecclesial contexts. We are delighted that the QSP request for support and help with technology has been answered robustly by Conference. QSP Website: QSP is in conversation with The Rev. Kent Chown (MTL Presbytery) to assist us in getting QSP website up to speed. Changes in QSP ministry personnel have resulted in poor maintenance of the QSP website. We expect this to improve over the short run with the assistance of Rev. Chown who is familiar with the software (Drupal) used to build and update the QSP website. Meantime, the QSP Facebook page has experienced significant increase in traffic, hits and interest. QSP UCW Presbyterial: Ann H. Clark, QSP UCW Presbyterial President/Coordinator, reports that dialogue with Conference UCW is ongoing. A QSP UCW event, to which all QSP UCW units will be invited, is planned for spring Dialogue with Conference UCW will be an agenda item at this meeting. The QSP UCW Presbyterial has organized a two-day retreat to be held in the Thetford Mines area September Participation is expected from persons in the QSP Eastern Region. The retreat is supported, in part, by the St. Andrews/Three Rivers Fund. 4. Promote efforts/initiatives/support of development and redevelopment of Pastoral Charges and Mission Units - Favoriser les projets de développement et de revitalisation des charges pastorales et des unités de mission, et soutenir les efforts dans ce sens. Lay Worship Training: A 2 year Lay Worship Training is being developed for those UCC members in QSP called, with support of their Session or equivalent body, to Lay Worship Leadership. A Lay Worship training course is scheduled to begin late October Significant

21 Page 63 conversation around a bilingual piece to this training is yet to be explored. Planners are open to conversation. Pastoral Oversight: Using a new model for Presbytery Pastoral Oversight, three charges in Yamaska Region, three in St Francis Region and three in Sherbrooke area, are scheduled to exchange pulpits with the oversight piece of work to be done in this context. The Oversight reports are to be sent to QSP Pastoral Relations and Conference level through Gayle Chouinard. Nominations: New appointments include a new QSP Chair if Finance, and new member(s) of the: QSP Secretary Support Committee, Counsellor Rep. on Camp Committee, Lay Training Committee. New Members of Presbytery: New members of QSP Presbytery include The Rev. Lee Ann Hogle, and new members representing Chevery and Harrington Harbour. The new members will be welcomed at the September plenary meeting. 5. Ensure ways of providing a collective Conference voice on public Christian witness S'assurer de faire entendre la voix collective du Synode comme témoignage chrétien sur la scène publique. Lac Mégantic: The Lac Mégantic train derailment evoked many responses from ministries across QSP. Time, talent and treasure were shared with the peoples of Lac Mégantic. Money was sent, ministers attended worship services at Eglise Sainte-Agnès, and notes of condolence and support were sent from pastoral charges to both church and secular institutions. The QSP Presbyterial UCW is currently working an embroidered panel to be gifted to the Lac Megantic community. Hearts of support from QSP ministries are posted in the sanctuary at Sainte-Agnès in Lac Mégantic near to the site of the explosion. Charter of Quebec Values: A reflection on the proposed Charter of Quebec Values is an agenda item for the September 2013 QSP Presbytery meeting (in plenary). The court will together reflect, share insights and wisdom, and consider crafting a response. 6. Provide an inspirational link between local United Church communities and the United Church of Canada as a whole community - Devenir un pont et une inspiration entre les communautés locales de l'église Unie et l'église Unie du Canada comme communauté d'ensemble. National Greenbelt Mission: The Rev. Mead Baldwin (Waterville/North Hatley, QSP) attended the Greenbelt mission August A reflection/ report on Mead s experience of the mission is an agenda item at the September 2013 plenary meeting of QSP. National Event(s) : There will be QSP Executive representation/participation at the national event Turning Over Tables which will be held in Ste Foy, QC October Promote whole-life stewardship - Promouvoir le soutien de la vie dans ses diverses dimensions. Stewardship: Carolyn Ruda will be presenting at the QSP Presbytery meeting, as will Paul Sales. Various ministries will be developing local worship services for Stewardship Sunday, each in ways particular to their context. Local pastoral charges are planning fundraisers and stewardship campaigns. Respectfully submitted, Lynn Hamilton, Chair, Quebec-Sherbrooke Presbytery.

22 Page 64 Appendix D Ottawa Presbytery Report To M&O Conference Sept 2013 Promote the spiritual support, pastoral care, and professional development of Ministry personnel Promouvoir le soutien spiritual, les soins pastoraux et le développement professional nécessaires au personnel ministériel The Ministry Personnel Gathering on Sept. 30 will have an exploratory meeting about establishing peer mentoring circles. How can we help each other with best practices, collegial support, growing in leadership? Between Sept 13-18, Rev. Michael Dowd along with his wife, science writer Connie Barlow, will participate in a variety of events including a conference on How the Marriage of Science & Religion Will Transform Your Life and Our World. Provide leadership in supporting Presbytery efforts to ensure that all Pastoral Charges have ongoing effective pastoral ministry and participate in the formation of new Ministry Personnel Diriger et soutenir les efforts des consistoires pour que toutes les charges pastorales bénéficient d un ministère pastoral efficace et sans interruption, et participant à la formation du nouveau ministériel Congregational Resource Day on Oct. 26 with workshops that are tool based for leaders in congregations Church Treasurers An introduction to the new Manual Sunday School Resources and Approaches Messy Church, Godly Play Role & Responsibilities of Trustees Making a Church Board / Council work (for chairs) Resources for Adult Formation and Nurture Pastoral Relations Committee training event on Sept. 19 including new Manual and Related Resources Promote the co-operation of strategic use of resources through exploring regional co-operation Favoriser la coordination et l utilisation stratégique des ressources en explorant les possibilités de coopération régional. Nearby the Oct. 26 Congregational Resource Day (participants can walk back and forth) is a forum designed for the leadership of all faith communities, community organizations, pubic bodies and private partners entitled Mission Building Regenerating Faith Property for Faith Missions - A Multi-Faith Forum Focused on Utilizing Faith Property to Meet Community Needs Youth and Young Adult (YAYA) Ministry May 2013 saw the Presbytery YAYA Minister and 6 young adults head to Zambia and our mission partner in Chipembi. This group continues to be busy with sharing our experiences

23 Page 65 within Ottawa Presbytery at congregational worship services, Presbytery and the UCW Fellowship Day coming up this fall. Camp Awesome Summer 2013 was a successful initiative in leadership development for young, youth and children. There were 16 host congregations, 3 co-ordinators, 30 counsellors, 17 leaders in training and over 600 children. On Oct. 26, YAYA we will be holding THE POINT Worship Celebration (a presbyterywide event) at Rideau Park United at 7pm. Worshiplude will be the weekend of January 31 st to Feb. 2 nd, with the worship celebration being held on February 1 st at Dominion Chalmers. Our speaker this coming year will be Rev. Anthony Bailey, who will be speaking on the theme, Who Is My Neighbour? Funding has just been received through SEVEC (Society for Educational Visits and Exchanges in Canada) for an exchange with the Swan Bay Rediscovery Centre Youth on Haida Gwaii. The Swan Bay Rediscovery Program is a cultural camp where the youth can learn important Haida cultural skills and knowledge while acquiring new life skills, selfesteem and confidence. This exchange is conditional on both groups being able to meet the requirements. The hope is to have an exchange involving 30 Ottawa Presbytery Youth aged 12 to 17, as well as 30 youth from Haida Gwaii. Hilary Merritt is on the planning team for Rendez-vous 2014, to be held in Winnipeg from August Keynote speakers are: Wab Kinew, Nicole Marquez and Kofi Hope. There will be over 50 workshops on a variety of topics. Ottawa Presbytery is looking into various options for travel, as are many Presbyteries and Conferences across the United Church. Hilary Merritt will be attending the Camping Connections 2013 Gathering on Vancouver Island later this month, where there will be discussions on various issues facing both residential and day camps for the church. There are a number of challenges facing church camps in the contemporary context, and the hope is that along with various workshops being offered, this gathering will provide a forum for those in leadership with United Church camps to dialogue on these issues. Open Table continues to grow, both in the numbers of university and college young adults participating and in the variety of programs being offered. Ottawa Presbytery YAYA recently provided an information table at the U of Ottawa orientation week, not only publicizing the Open Table meal, but also helping give information about Christian congregations in the university vicinity. YAYA will also be hosting an evening of dialogue with double lung transplant recipient, Helene Campbell. Helene will be sharing her inspiring story and the role her Christian faith played in helping her get through this difficult time in her life. Promote efforts/initiatives/support of development and redevelopment of Pastoral Charges and Mission Units favoriser les projets de développement de revitalisation des charges pastorales et des unités de mission, et soutenir les efforts dans ce sens

24 Page 66 Five congregations in West Quebec have voted to become a Collective and work is ongoing to determine exactly how this Collective will be the Church in this region; work is also underway to provide support to congregations who voted not to participate in this new initiative including two pastoral charges where one church voted to participate and the other voted not to do so. During a Visioning Day in early September, the Collective started to explore a staffing model. Ensure ways of providing a collective Conference voice on public Christian witness S assurer de faire entendre la voix collective du Synode comme témoignage chrétien sur la scène publique Representatives from Ottawa Presbytery along with members of several congregations walked in the August Pride Parade Parkdale United UC hosted a special service of commemoration on the 50 th anniversary of the I Have A Dream speech of Dr. Martin Luther King Rideau Park UC hosted a prayer vigil for Peace in Syria with representatives from different faith traditions Provide an inspirational link between local United Church communities and the United Church of Canada as a whole community Devenir un pont et une inspiration entre les communautés locales de l Église Unie du Canada comme communauté d ensemble Five persons (Trish Elliott, David Sherwin, Kim Vidal, Carla VanDelen and Miriam Sherwin) had the opportunity to share in the Greenbelt experience with the Moderator. Greenbelt is an outdoor gathering held in England that explores Fresh Expressions of being Church. Having voted in June to become an Affirming Presbytery, Ottawa Presbytery has now received Affirming status. A Diversity Committee has been established to live out our commitments and we have begun planning the service of celebration. Rev. Jenni Leslie attended the National Affirm meeting and has been elected to the executive. Promote whole-life stewardship - Promouvoir le soutien de la vie dans ses diverses dimensions On Sunday, Nov. 10th, the Ottawa School of Theology & Spirituality (OSTS) which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, is holding a public discussion: How can one be a person of faith in the 21 st century in Canada? Trish Elliott is the Dean of the OSTS. Provide administrative effectiveness in the «art» of making our Conference life happen Fournir l efficacité nécessaire à la pratique de «l art de faire vivre» notre Synode Wendy Mather is the new Administrative Assistant for Ottawa Presbytery. She has been an active member in the United Church and Presbyterian Church all her life. Her involvement has included being an elder, serving on a camp committee, teaching Sunday School and playing in English Handbell choirs.

25 Page 67 The Executive met for a brief visioning session. Out of that meeting came the decision that the theme for Presbytery this year is "Change Happens." The Executive listed some skills and spiritual gifts we need to "live the change well" such as: we need to know how to be leaders, how to nurture leaders, how to recognize leaders; we need to know how to risk and welcome failure; we need to know how to discern what to let go and what to carry forward...which means we need to know how to grieve and how to celebrate; we need to know how to build communities of trust and support; we need to know how to look outside ourselves, to form partnerships, to be entrepreneurial; we need to know how to ground ourselves in spiritual practice; we need to know how to articulate the values that lie beneath our choices, we need to know how to be grounded in the midst of conflict and to view it as a necessary (even useful!) part of change. This year's Presbytery worship services, meetings, educational moments and discussions will focus on developing some of these skills and spiritual gifts. The Implementation Team for the new model of governance (effective July 1, 2014) continues its work including the revision of the job descriptions for all committees, ministry teams, mission units and presbytery appointments to outside committees and boards

26 Page 68 Appendix E Rapport Du Consistoire Laurentien Au Synode M&O, Septembre Promouvoir le soutien spirituel, les soins pastoraux et le développement professionnel nécessaire au personnel ministériel Nous sommes un petit Consistoire et si la vie y demeure active, peu de choses sont très différentes entre le dernier Synode et maintenant. Nous serons donc bref. Un contact étroit se maintient avec et entre notre le personnel ministériel. Cela dans un climat familial et personnel, ce qui permet l accompagnement proche de certain-es qui traversent des défis particuliers. La dernière réunion du printemps du CL a été un temps fort, interculturel, joyeux, de KOINONIA. Très stimulant. On fera encore mieux l année prochaine! Que le CL pastoral efficace et sans interruption et formation. Le CL accompagne la paroisse de Drummondville dans ses démarches pour le nouveau pasteur David Fines. La paroisse St Jean a bien terminé son évaluation des besoins et est en processus d appel de candidatures. Des conversations suivies ont eu lieu avec St Pierre dans le discernement de leur ministère. Etienne Lesage, étudiant pasteur suppléant fera un demi-temps à St Jean et Pierre Goldberger est le superviseur de la paroisse. Les laïcs sont bien actifs. Le CL relance et suit chaque paroisse dans la consolidation de ses Comités de Relations pastorales. C est une priorité. La collaboration avec le Séminaire Uni concernant les candidats futurs est très fructueuse. Le comité CRPF (Relations pastorales et Formation) suite au départ du pasteur T. Delay, a été renouvelé (en partie) et assure un bon suivi des pasteurs et candidat-es. Le CL est encouragé par l existence de candidats au ministère pastoral. Le défi commun de l Eglise Unie : la nécessité de créer de nouveaux ministères, notamment en Français. 3. Favoriser l utilisation stratégique des ressources, explorer la coopération régionale : Le CL pris soin de veiller que le processus de réflexion et de rédaction des demandes de Support- Mission commence tôt et soit repensé dans un double contexte de coupures et de nécessité de Mission. Nous encourageons les paroisses à articuler et clarifier leur vision et projet de mission Dans un précédent rapport nous avons souligné les liens de coopération existants. Mentionnons, suite à la plénière du CL de mai 13, le CL va soutenir des projets de coopérations, de visites, d activités entre communautés, avec un soutien financier. Aussi, en dépit de beaucoup de progrès et de bonne volonté, on note encore un certain désintérêt chez des paroisses non francophones établies à tenter une ouverture au milieu francophone, dans des contextes qui nous paraissent favorables. Rappelons que le CL invite les membres de paroisses francophones des autres consistoire à maintenir des liens et à participer à ses travaux et assemblées comme «membres associés» et le CL souhaite la réciproque avec les autres consistoires. Au mois d aout, une Fête des paroisses a eu lieu à Belle Rivière, joyeuse et stimulante, selon les participant-es.

27 Page Favoriser les projets de développement et de revitalisation des Paroisses Tel que mentionné ci-dessus, les paroisses du CL sont actives pour rejoindre des personnes en recherche de spiritualité. Mentionnons par exemple, St Marc à Ottawa qui développe une Église inter culturelle, Camino d Emaus, crée des communautés de base dans quatre lieux de la région de Montréal tout en formant le leadership et le ministère des laïcs et en organisant un camp d été familial avec la participation des Jeunes, ce qui a été un grand succès encore cette année. Ce camp familial, met l accent sur le leadership des jeunes et est un lieu de ressourcement spirituel, d accueil, d évangélisation respectueuse. St Jean s est lancé dans un programme œcuménique avec le Centre culturel chrétien canadien, le Séminaire uni et le Centre d œcuménisme. St Marc étend son ministère interculturel, St Pierre se regroupe et repense sa mission. Plusieurs se sont inscrits à la Révision globale. Chaque paroisse du CL connait une croissance graduelle mais réelle de sa communauté et accueille de nouveaux membres. Cependant, la plupart des communautés ont aussi des défis financiers et doivent avoir du support afin de développer leur mission. C'est avec une grande appréhension que des communautés, mêmes les plus dynamiques, entrevoient les coupures annoncées de SM. Cela peut obliger des coupures de ministères. Nous n avons pas de bâtiments «albatros» à vendre. Par ailleurs, le CL est extrêmement reconnaissant au Synode de M&O pour son soutien, sa solidarité et l accroissement du Français ainsi que la place faite à la participation des francophones et autres communautés Autochtones et culturelles. Un très grand merci en particulier à la secrétaire exécutive Rosemary Lambie et au pasteur ministériel Doug Stewart et Larry Richardson dont la présence et le soutien à nos sessions du CL font une réelle différence, établit des ponts et crée la confiance. 5. Le témoignage du CL sur la scène publique. Outre Credo et Radio Ville Marie, le CL participe activement à la Table de concertation du Synode et a aussi participé à la Commission de la Vérité et Réconciliation, ainsi que sur Le Comité du Synode sur la recherche de paix en Israël et Palestine, l atelier sur l Eau Juste, et les questions minières et Autochtones. Nous sommes engagés dans un processus d écoute, de réflexion, par rapport à la Charte sur la laïcité, afin qu une prise de parole soit mesurée, réfléchie, ouverte et respectueuse, au sein d un débat émotionnel mais important. Nous sommes en lien avec des partenaires œcuméniques et de droits humains de la société civile sur cette question. 6. Inspiration pour notre Église Le modèle de la création de Communautés de base et de leadership des laïcs est d'une grande inspiration comme modèle d Eglise et crée des ponts entre diverses paroisses et communautés. La relance d un œcuménisme de base nous inspire aussi. La venue de K Greenaway au MiF, nous encourage pour la relance de nos ministères et de notre témoignage dans l Eglise et la Société, et à travers le pays. Bienvenue! 7 et 8. Le soutien à la vie, de notre consistoire et Eglise. Le CL est présent à divers comités du Synode et de L EUC-malgré le nombre restreint de pasteurs et laïcs -que nous ne voulons pas brûler. Le Synode est un lieu «de Famille» important pour nous. En dépit de difficultés importantes liées aux finances et à une halte sur la création de nouveaux ministères, le CL et nos paroisses sont espérantes, résilientes pour continuer de développer leur ministère. «Le moral est bon», même s il ya de l inquiétude réelle. Notre confiance en la richesse

28 Page 70 de l Evangile de Jésus Christ est bien vivante, ainsi que nos efforts d accueil et de contact avec ceux et celles qui sont en recherche. Pierre Goldberger, Consistoire Laurentien, septembre 2013

29 Page 71 Appendix F Seaway Valley Presbytery Report to Montreal & Ottawa Conference Executive Summer is supposedly a slow season in the life of the church. This year was definitely an exception in the Seaway Valley Presbytery. 1. Promote the spiritual support, pastoral care, and professional development of Ministry Personnel Life carries the pain with the joy. The presbytery has had to deal with a 333/363 review of the Merrickville-Easton s Corners Pastoral Charge and, more specifically, within the Merrickville congregation. There have been the usual deep hurts that come with these reviews. The presbytery and the Conference have been work working the congregation and its minister to restore health to these ministries. 2. Provide leadership in supporting Presbytery efforts to ensure that all pastoral charges have ongoing effective pastoral ministry, and participate in the formation of new Ministry Personnel New ministries have begun, or will soon begin, in several existing pastoral charges as new ministers join with those church families. 3. Promote the coordination of strategic use of resources through exploring regional cooperation New ministries have commenced. As of July 1, a partnership between the Ingleside and Long Sault Pastoral Charges commenced on a one year trial basis. The hope is that this will lead to an amalgamation of the two pastoral charges. The Rural United Ministry in the west end of the presbytery commenced with five partners on July 1 and was joined by the sixth partner on September 1. This is a shared ministry that is much like the Genesis Cooperative in the east end. Other pastoral charges have expressed an interest in establishing some form of joint ministries. 1. Promote efforts/initiatives/support of development and redevelopment of Pastoral Charges and Mission Units The presbytery will continue to work with other pastoral charges that are having challenges in sustaining ministry or in finding partners with whom they can share ministry was another successful year at Rideau Hill Camp. The season began with a great reunion June 22 nd and 23 rd. Well over a hundred former campers and staff visited the camp and brought their memories with them. Two people from the first year of RHC were there. The summer was a great success with 360 campers enjoying the wonderful activities at Rideau Hill. Our Director, Doug Rivoire, and a great staff provided an excellent camping experience for everyone. The second Family Camp was not well attended so the Council will be looking at what can be done to make that camp more appealing.

30 Page 72 The Council has also rewritten the by-laws which have not been updated since The revised by-laws have gone to Seaway Valet Presbytery for their approval and will then be sent for approval to Conference. There have been many improvements done to the buildings and property. We want to thank a group of dedicated volunteers, led mainly by Don Buwalda from St. John s United in Kemptville, who, each year, clean the site, clear trees and work on the buildings when repairs are needed. One major expense to come will be the refurbishing of the Rec Hall. A campaign has started to purchase new windows but much more will be needed including a new roof. The Council wants to thank all who contribute to the camp. Individuals, service groups, churches and, in particular, a great number of UCWs and, of course, the Seaway Valley Presbytery, continue to provide support for this super camp. 5. Ensure ways of providing a collective Presbytery voice on public Christian witness In August, KAIROS organized a bike tour to sensitize the participants to Aboriginal issues. Stops were planned in Morrisburg and Prescott. The presbytery was asked to find a place where the bikers to stay. presuming, probably, that they would be staying in United Churches. Instead, they stayed in the Lutheran church in Morrisburg and the Presbyterian church in Prescott. This part of the tour became ecumenical in the spirit of the KAIROS movement. Provide an inspirational link between local United Church communities and the United Church of Canada as a whole community 6. Promote whole-life stewardship 7. Provide administrative effectiveness in the art of making Conference life happen Starting with the September meeting, the presbytery will put a sharper focus on its outreach ministries. Before entering into the committee reports, there will be a time set aside for outreach ministries to tell about the work that they are doing. Regular reporters will be Rideau Hill Camp and the House of Lazarus. The presbytery recognizes that outreach ministry is happening in many other places within its bounds. These ministries also will be invited to tell their stories. Submitted by Jim Allen Chairperson, Seaway Valley Presbytery

31 Page 73 Appendix G Rapport De La Table De Concertation M & O Pour L exécutif Du Synode 17 Septembre 2013 La nouvelle Responsable des ministères en français Kristine Greenaway a commencé dans sa nouvelle position à Toronto au début septembre. Son arrivée permet de finaliser la nouvelle structure prévue pour le fonctionnement des ministères en français. Une première rencontre de l équipe des ministères en français (Stéphane Gaudet communication; Judith Bricault traduction et ressources; Angelika Piché formation en français) a eu lieu du 11 au 12 septembre. La Table de concertation nationale sera constituée dans un avenir rapproché. La première rencontre est prévue pour la fin octobre. La Table de M&O continue à accompagner les ministères en français dans notre région, surtout les nouveaux ministères en français en développement. Des allocations de soutien pour certains projets concrets, à Sainte-Adèle, pour Nos voix unies, pour la publicité sur Radio Ville-Marie en français ont été approuvées. Des rencontres de consultation entre les nouveaux ministères en français dans M&O et Edge sont planifiées à Montréal pour le 23 et 24 septembre. Angelika Piché Présidente de la Table de concertation régionale du Synode M&O

32 Page 74 Appendix H MONTREAL AND OTTAWA CONFERENCE UNITED CHURCH WOMEN REPORT TO MONTREAL AND OTTAWA CONFERENCE EXECUTIVE With September upon us and fall just around the corner the United Church women are busy planning bazaars, bake sales and harvest dinners. Many of the local UCW s are gathering once again for fellowship and study. On behalf of the United Church Women across the Conference thank you to all who continue to support our fundraisers and social events. It is because of our supporters that enable us to raise funds for our local churches and the many outreach projects we support. The 72 nd annual Summer Event Rooted in God s Love was attended by 65 delegates across our Conference. Those in attendance enjoyed the workshops, music and fellowship. Thank you to our workshop leaders Rev. Donald Wachenschwanz, Joan McEwan, Pam Bower Foster and Lilly Worrall. On behalf of Conference UCW executive a registered letter was sent to Q/S UCW Coordinator Ann Hains Clark. This letter acknowledged the decision of Q/S Presbyterial to withdraw from M&O Conference UCW; as well the benefits of Q/S Presbyterial staying in the fold were laid out. An invitation was extended for Conference UCW executive members to meet on several occasions regionally throughout Q/S to talk, listen and share with the women of Q/S Presbyterial. A copy of this letter has been circulated to all local UCW s in Q/S Presbyterial. To date Ann has not responded to our letter. Plans for Conference UCW Fall Gathering on October 16, 2013 at Summerlea United Church are well underway. The theme is refresh and renew. The day will see a short business session with our main focus on worship, workshops and music. All women of the United Church are invited to attend. The National United Church Women s executive is meeting this week in Toronto. Janice Knowles, President of Montreal UCW will be accompanying me to this meeting. We are looking forward to meeting our colleagues from across Canada to share our successes and work on our challenges. Sisters in Christ, Kim Kim Baird President M&O Conference United Church Women September 17, 2013

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