ARDMORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Ardmore, Pennsylvania

Transcription

1 ARDMORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Ardmore, Pennsylvania ANNUAL REPORT 2017 February 11, 2018

2 SESSION Don Poorman, Clerk of Session Class of 2019 Class of 2020 Class of 2021 Cathie Calkins Joseph Blair Jody Brumbach John DiNome Dick Corl Don Poorman Jill Fowler Susan Michaelson Bill Toal Peggy Shaver Cathy Stewart BOARD OF DEACONS John Abrams, Moderator, Jessie DiNome, Graham Fuller, Elizabeth Luff, Katherine Anne Matt, Beth Nierenberg, Joanne Poorman, Mary Schreiber, Alicia Templeton, Viola Terwiesch, Anne Warner, Debbie Young, Jill Fowler, Session Representative A R D M O R E P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H Rev. James Hodsden, M.Div., Pastor (pastor@ardmorepres.org) Rev. Sturgis Poorman, M.Div., Parish Associate (sspjrp@yahoo.com) Rev. Graham Robinson, D. Min., Parish Associate (gjmtk5@gmail.com) Gary Garletts, M.M., AAGO, Director of Music/Organist (music@ardmorepres.org) Gerry Gaugler, M.S. Director of Youth and Children s Ministry (gerrygaugler@ardmorepres.org) Michelle Butera, M.B.A., Director of Weekday Preschool (michellebutera@ardmorepres.org) Raelyn Harman, M.S.W., Church and Preschool Administrator (admin@ardmorepres.org) Lisa Gaugler, B.A., Interim Financial Secretary (lisagaugler@ardmorepres.org)

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No. I. TABLE OF CONTENTS II. TO THE CHURCH TRIUMPHANT 1 III. AGENDA FOR THE ANNUAL MEETING - Sunday, February 11, IV. MINUTES OF THE MEETINGS OF THE CONGREGATION & CORPORATION February 26, 2017 (Part II) 3 April 2, 2017 (Part II, continued) 4 December 17, 2017 (Part I) 5 V. ANNUAL REPORT OF THE MODERATOR 6 VI. DIRECTOR OF MUSIC REPORT 7 VII. DIRECTOR OF WEEKDAY PRESCHOOL REPORT 8 VIII. DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH MINISTRY REPORT 9 IX. NARRATIVE REPORTS (by Committees/Boards) A. ANNUAL STATISTICAL REPORT 10 B. BOARD OF DEACONS 11 C. BUILDING AND GROUNDS 12 D. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE 13 E. FELLOWSHIP & OUTREACH COMMITTEE 15 F. MISSION AWARENESS COMMITTEE Mission Awareness Committee Disbursements 17 G. PRE-MED HOSPICE MINISTRY 18 H. STEWARDSHIP AND FINANCE COMMITTEE 19 I. ARDPRES ADVISORY COMMITTEE 20 J. WORSHIP COMMITTEE 21 X. PASTOR S COMPENSATION PACKAGE FOR

4 TO THE CHURCH TRIUMPHANT 2017 Jeannette Caroline Arthur Jane Elizabeth Gulick Frederick William Larson James S. LePard Ernest Murray Alfred J. Pfaff Henry Newton Spencer Kingsley Whitcomb Weston 1

5 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ARDMORE, PENNSYLVANIA ANNUAL MEETING Sunday, February 11, 2018 following worship I. CONVENING OF THE MEETING WITH PRAYER Rev. James Hodsden, Moderator II. THE CONGREGATIONAL MEETING A. Appointment of Clerk Donald Poorman, Clerk of Session B. Approval of Minutes from 2017 Congregation & Corporation Meetings C. To the Church Triumphant 2017 D. The Review of 2017 Annual Reports E. Approval of the Pastor s Compensation Package for 2018 III. CLOSING PRAYER AND BENEDICTION I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 2

6 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ARDMORE, PA Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part II) Sunday, February 26, 2017 The Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part II) of The First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore, Pennsylvania was held on Sunday, February 26, 2017 in the Sanctuary following the worship service. The Moderator, The Reverend James M. Hodsden, having determined that a quorum was present, constituted the meeting with prayer at 11:44 a.m. It was moved, seconded and passed that Donald H. Poorman be appointed Clerk of the meeting. Rev. Hodsden conducted the ordination of Joseph Blair as elder by laying on of hands. The ordination was a continuation of the regular 10:30 a.m. worship service. Elder Harry Hannigan, President of the Corporation, requested that the elders elected at the congregational meeting held on December 11, 2016 be designated to serve as trustees of the Corporation. Upon motion duly made, seconded, and passed, this action was approved. Upon recommendation from Session, Clerk Poorman requested that the Corporation s By-Laws be amended to authorize annual meetings to be held during the months of November and February. Upon motion duly made, seconded, and passed, this action was approved. [Please contact the Church Office to request a copy.] Upon motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the Annual Meeting was adjourned to be reconvened following the worship service on Sunday, April 2, 2017 for the presentation of reports and the approval of the Pastor s Salary. The Moderator closed the meeting with prayer at 11:57 a.m. Donald H. Poorman, Clerk of Session

7 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ARDMORE, PA Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part II, cont.) Sunday, April 2, 2017 The Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part II, continued) of The First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore, Pennsylvania was held on Sunday, April 2, 2017, in the Sanctuary following the worship service. The Moderator, The Reverend James M Hodsden, having determined that a quorum was present, constituted the meeting with prayer at 11:45 a.m. The Moderator noted that the meeting was a continuation of the congregational meeting of February 26, 2017, which was adjourned to the present date for the presentation of reports and the approval of the Pastor s Salary. The Moderator read the Necrology Report of those members who have joined the Church Triumphant in 2016: Thomas W. Brown, Jr., M. Louise Dejardins, Norig Skip Ellison, Mary Elizabeth Dollie Graham, Dorothy J. Lampe, Alice May Mack, Thomas G. McNutt, Mark Evan Ramsay, Dorothy Dot Rodda Sargent, and Margaret Peggy Wilkinson. It was moved, seconded and passed that Donald H. Poorman be appointed Clerk of the meeting. By motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the minutes of the congregational and corporation meetings of December 11, 2016 and February 26, 2017 were approved as presented. Elder Gary Lovett presented the nominees for congregational representatives to the Congregational Nominating Committee: Jessie DiNome, Jeff Spoelker, Stephanie McGrory and Kathy Toal. By motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the congregation voted to elect the nominees. Rev. Hodsden then called attention to the reports of committees and others in the 2016 Annual Report. By motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the congregation voted to receive these reports. Elder Susan Michaelson presented a financial report for 2016 and the 2017 budget as approved by the Session. By motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the congregation voted to receive this report and the 2017 budget. Clerk Poorman presented the Pastor s annual effective salary of $101,000 to the congregation for approval as required by the Book of Order. By motion duly made, seconded, and passed, the congregation approved this salary. There being no further business to come before the meeting, it was moved, seconded and passed that the meeting adjourn. The Moderator closed the meeting with prayer at p.m. Donald H. Poorman Clerk of Session

8 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ARDMORE, PA Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part I) and of the Corporation Sunday, December 17, 2017 The Annual Meeting of the Congregation (Part I) and of the Corporation of The First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore, Pennsylvania was held on Sunday, December 17, 2017 in the Sanctuary following the worship service. The Moderator, The Reverend James M. Hodsden, having determined that a quorum was present, constituted the meeting with prayer at 11:25 a.m. Don Poorman was elected Clerk of the Congregational Meeting by common consent. The Moderator invited elder Gary Lovett, Moderator of the Congregational Nominating Committee, to present the Committee s report. Elder Lovett presented the Committee s nominations for church officers: For Elder, Class of 2019: For Elder, Class of 2021: For Deacon, Class of 2020: For Deacon, Class of 2021: Margaret (Peggy) Shaver Jody Brumbach, Don Poorman, Bill Toal Katherine Ann Matt Elizabeth Luff, Mary Schreiber, Graham Fuller Upon motion duly made, seconded as passed, nominations were closed and the Clerk was instructed to cast a unanimous ballot in favor of the slate of officers as presented by the Committee. Elder Lovett presented the Committee s Nominations for congregational representatives to the Congregational Nominating Committee: One Year Term: Stephanie McGrory, Jeff Spoelker, Kathy Toal Upon motion duly made, seconded as passed, the Clerk was instructed to cast a unanimous ballot in favor of the nominees to the Congregational Nominating Committee as presented by the Committee. The Moderator adjourned the Congregational Meeting in order to hold the Meeting of the Corporation. The President of the Corporation, Dick Corl, constituted the Meeting of the Corporation of the First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore with prayer. Don Poorman was elected as Clerk of the Corporation Meeting. Upon motion duly made, seconded as passed, the ruling elders for 2018 were elected as the legal trustees of the Corporation. By unanimous Motion, the Corporation Meeting was closed and the Congregational Meeting was reconvened. There being no further business to come before the Congregational Meeting, it was moved, seconded and passed that the meeting adjourn. The Moderator closed the meeting with prayer at 11:33 a.m. Respectfully Submitted, Donald H. Poorman, Clerk of Session 5

9 APC Annual Report (2017) Moderator s Report Dr. John Vaughan, a researcher and consultant to churches, has recently compiled a list of the fifty most influential Protestant churches in America. I m sorry to tell you that the Ardmore Presbyterian Church did not make the first fifty. In fact, none of the churches in our community did. The list is a who s who of mega-churches in growing metropolitan areas. To even be considered for the list, a church had to have more than 2,000 in weekly attendance. Dr. Vaughan compiled this list based on the polling of the pastors from these same mega-churches. I don t want to be unappreciative of the hard work that went into the list, but it seems that the results were bound to be skewed. Perhaps if our congregation had made the list, I would feel differently, but it seems that Dr. Vaughan had a particular understanding of influential. Don t get me wrong, there are faithful congregations up and down that list. Mega-churches have made and will continue to make a huge impact on the landscape of American Christianity. Still, I wish Dr. Vaughan had asked me what I thought were the most influential churches in America. Now, granted I m biased. I would certainly put our congregation at the top of the list. Then I would continue the list with Presbyterian, Methodist and even a few Roman Catholic congregations. I m sure that you could add a few congregations to the list as well. To be honest, these churches have nothing in common except one thing. They have all made a personal impact on me or the people I love. When the disciples argued about who was the greatest, Jesus said, If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all (Mark 9:35). We are the most influential when we serve one another. Staying up all night with a friend in need, providing a meal, or teaching a Sunday school class are tangible ways we influence the world for the gospel. The measurement of influence is not attendance, size or budget. Rather, real influence is faithfulness. Jesus said that the kingdom of God is like a mustard seed (Matthew 13:31). Starting small and inconsequential, its impact is greater than you can possibly imagine. In 2017, the Ardmore Presbyterian Church has been a congregation of influence. We have worked hard to be faithful, caring for the person in front of us. God has blessed us in a mighty way, and we look forward to the future. SOLI DEO GLORIA Rev. James Hodsden Senior Pastor

10 APC Annual Report (2017) Director of Music Highlights of APC s Music Ministry during 2017 included: Director of Music s first-ever medical leave Certain program adjustments due to budget reductions Continued use of supplemental hymns and responses Biennial Youth/Children s Musical, Paul & Co. (Rachel Sparks, stage director) Wednesday Lenten Vespers and Holy Week Services Visit by the Grove City College Touring Choir (Katherine Mueller, director) Adult Three-Church Spring Choral Concert with Orchestra (Dennis Elwell s retirement) Easter Youth Service and Easter Festival Service with QuintEssentially Brass Last-Sunday Hymn-Sing Preludes (May-August) Volunteer Musicians in Summer Worship (Twila Garletts and Elaine Giese, coordinators) Reformation Sunday Service (Charlie Rután, piper) with 19 th -Annual Three-Choir Anthem Chancel Choir Reformation Cantata (Mark Capriotti, trombone; Ross Ellison, organ) Annual Advent Family Night Program (all choirs except Chancel) Christmas Eve Family Service and Lessons and Carols Service Chancel Choir (adults) sang at most Sunday services (September-May). On April 2, they joined Overbrook Presbyterian and St. Paul s Lutheran Churches for Mozart s Vesper Psalms and Duruflé s Requiem, celebrating Dennis Elwell s distinguished career (40+ years at OPC). In the fall, Thomas Hodsden left for college, Robie Lawlace returned from leave, and Sylvia Leuschner (a guest from Germany) joined us, bringing membership to an even 20 singers. In lieu of a Christmas cantata, the choir sang a Reformation cantata (marking Reformation- 500) with Mark Capriotti (trombone), Ross Ellison (organ), and James Hodsden and Graham Robinson (narrators). Special thanks to section leaders Christine DeVault, Courtney Capriotti, Jim Longacre, and Jeff DeVault. Handbell Choir (adults) played periodically in worship, including Sunday services and Advent Family Night. In the fall, Kim Heins joined, Nancy Leong substituted short-term, and Theresa Haenn resigned. Youth Choir (grades 6-12) sang periodically in worship. Events included biennial musical with Children s Choir (Paul & Co., directed by Eastern U. student Rachel Sparks); Lenten Vesper Services; annual three-choir anthem; and Advent Family Night. In June, seniors Caroline DiNome and Nina Spoelker graduated; in the fall Lila Spoelker and Mark Steinnagel-Taylor rose from Children s Choir, and Caroline Burchette and Lexi Fowler joined. Youth Ringers (grades 6-12) played occasionally in worship. They are Caroline Burchette, Kayla Cobb, Tyler Cobb, Pyper Heins, Ashley McGrory, Colin Pfister, Gwen Pfister, Julia Spoelker, Lila Spoelker, and asst. Kim Heins. Children s Choir (grades 2-5) sang periodically in worship. Events included biennial musical (see Youth Choir); hymn medley in worship; annual three-choir anthem; and Advent Family Night. In May, 5 th -graders Abby Nierenberg, Sam Pulsifer, and Mark-Steinnagel-Taylor graduated. In September, 2 nd -graders Lila Davey and Chelsea Sanders rose from Cherub Choir. Assistants Elaine Giese and Holly Vicki helped all things run smoothly! Cherub Choir (grades pre-k-1) sang occasionally in worship, and at Advent Family Night. Carol Shih marks her eighth year of directing. In the fall, assistants were Twila Garletts and Sarah Schreiner. Young Adult Choir convened on Christmas Eve morning, including Thomas Hodsden, Alex Kozak, Anna Poorman, Ed Rochon, Carol Shih, and Nina Spoelker. Women s and Men s Choruses participated semi-annually in worship. Wednesday Lenten Vespers: Music leaders included Courtney Capriotti and Carol Shih (voice), APC Youth (choir and string quartet), Elizabeth Mendoza and Yen Shih (cello), and Bailey Claeys (clarinet). Facilities and Instruments: At year s end, one offset wind-chest and certain large pipes were removed from the sanctuary organ (north chamber), until the roof above that area can be properly replaced. Gary P. Garletts, Music Director 7

11 APC Annual Report (2017) Preschool (APWPS) The weekday Preschool is in its 69th year and continues its emphasis on Christian love woven into a traditional preschool curriculum. STAFF Director Michelle Butera, Administrator Raelyn Harman Preschool Staff all of whom are creative, dedicated, energetic and loving teachers. They are extremely qualified and devoted to our school. 5-day class Denise Peters 14 students (over-enrolled by 2) 5-day class Laura Rossio 13 students (over-enrolled by 1) Aide for the 5-day classes Irena Reynolds 3 days, Shannon Smith 2 days 3-day class Danka Rauer and Patty Burchette 12 students 3-day class Leigh Lignowski and Karen Tolbert 12 students 2-day class Danka Rauer and Alyce Cerniglia and Leigh Lignowski 14 students 2-day class Patty Burchette and Irena Reynolds 11 students (new class this year) Enrollment to date 76 students. Over-enrolled by 3 students, with a waiting list. ADDITIONAL SUPPORT STAFF AND ACTIVITIES Music Denise Peters and Holly Vicki come weekly to sing and teach 3-day and 5-day children. They are responsible for presentations and the Thanksgiving and Spring/Easter programs. Enrichment Programs Offered throughout the school year on Mondays from 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Science, Cooking and Art. Soccer Shots Contracted to an outside vendor for 8 weeks both in the fall and spring. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Community Helpers: Pastor/Music Director, Police, Fireman and Nurse visit the school. Field Trips: Sugartown Strawberry Pumpkin Farm and Riverbend in Gladwyne. Special Programs: World Day of Prayer, Whale Watch/Safari Lady Programs, Planetarium Program. Special Events: Pumpkin Patch; Halloween Parades; All School Gingerbread Bake; Thanksgiving Program; Christmas Nativity Play; Spring/Easter Program; Classroom Closing Activities/Picnics and Graduation; Planting Flowers in the Garden. Fundraising Activities: Book Fair, Card Sale, Artomé Art Show, Family Fun Day Auction/Basket Raffle. Mission Outreach: Canned and dry goods at Thanksgiving for the APC Food Cupboard. Christmas gifts for needy families through the Rosemont Children s Village (The Village), coordinated by the Parents Group. Breakfast bags for the homeless on MLK day. Parent Support: Parent Teacher Conferences; Parents Nights in November; School Photographs in October; January vision screening; February Speech and hearing screening; Parent Handbook. Parents Group Activities: Greeting the parents and children at student orientation; Bulb Planting; Planning Family Fun Day; Book Fair, Art Show; All School Appreciation Picnic; Teacher Appreciation Luncheon; Grandparents Day and helping in all the classrooms. Michelle W. Butera, Director 8

12 APC Annual Report (2017) Children and Youth Ministry I thought I would write you a summary of my personal goals and the progress toward them that I saw this year. Goal 1: Establish a healthy youth group My efforts to establish a healthy youth group have centered this year around the remodeling of the Parish House to create a fresh look and an updated space. The youth were instrumental in preparing the 1 st floor for painting and in completing painting. They also helped redecorate 2 coffee tables with a mosaic tile pattern, special thanks to Lexi Fowler, which are beautiful. We disposed of unused games, furniture and electronics. A flat screen smart TV, a surround sound system, a ping pong table and a Wii game system were donated to the Youth Group s meeting space, D.O.G. House. There is more work to complete such as: adding new window treatments, adding beanbag chairs, reupholstering the couches in the dining room and sound proofing the dining room. The group meets weekly and has averaged people each week. For me, it is not the number of youth that tells me the group is healthy, it s the request to bring their friends to the group meetings and other special events. I ve been focusing on helping them get to know each other to create a safe space to explore questions about how to live a Christian lifestyle in a secular world. Goal 2: Increase involvement with Preschool Families I have been helping with drop-off each morning with the preschool families. This has been a great activity to help get the kids started each day at preschool. The families have become comfortable with me and I have seen a few come to church. I also think it is worth stating that our new members class in Fall 2017 was filled with families connected to the preschool, Tolbert, DiNucci and Laura Rossio. Outreach events such as the Easter Egg Hunt, VBS and Christmania all continue to promote our church to the Preschool families. Goal 3: Increase my contact with families outside of the church I coached JV girls soccer this fall at the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur. This was an attempt to meet new families that don t currently come to the church and to help build my social circle in this area. I worked with the team and the school from August to November. Unfortunately, this did not result in any new families for the church nor did it help increase my social circles. The coaching was fun but it required a great deal of commitment on my part. I m disappointed that no gains came from this. I will not be doing this again next year. Goal 4: Change the current structure of the Sunday School This year we have continued the pilot classroom in the PreK-1 st grade classroom with moderate success. I would like to expand this idea and create a Children s Church that better prepares our children/youth to join the adult worship after Confirmation is complete. It is my opinion that our current Sunday School program does not prepare them for our style of worship. This would move the Children s Moment, that was stopped in summer, to outside the Children s Worship. This would allow me to have more time to present a message. We would utilize a similar structure to our worship service that would be familiar to them. We also changed curriculum for the year and it is working well. It is an online curriculum that is free. The best part is that it is user friendly and developmentally appropriate for the ages. Our hope is to purchase a Genesis to Revelation 3-year curriculum that could be used cyclically and keep our costs down. Goal 5: Bring in outside speaker Nate Grella Nate came to talk with our families about how to Raise Children in the Faith. He came as part of the Lilly Grant. He prepared a 2-hour learning session for parents. We had a disappointing turn out for this program and only 5 people came, including Pastor James and I. The material was excellent and focused on the time spent with children and youth at home being so important in the spiritual development of children. I wish I could say that this was an exception to the typical attendance. But sadly, this seems to be the norm for APC families. I hear that they want more educational offerings but the attendance is lacking. I m not sure if it s the day of the week or the time of day, but something is keeping our families from coming to good events. Respectively submitted, Gerry Gaugler, Director 9

13 THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF ARDMORE, PA SESSION ANNUAL STATISTICAL REPORT FOR Active Members as of December 31, GAINS for 2016 a. Profession of Faith, Reaffirmation, Restoration (17 years and under) 0 b. Profession of Faith, Reaffirmation, Restoration (18 and over) 8 c. Certificate 0 d. All Other Gains 0 e. Total Gains 8 3. Subtotal LOSSES a. Certificate 3 b. Death 8 c. All Other Losses 8 d. Total Losses TOTAL ACTIVE MEMBERSHIP, December 31, Female Members Baptized Members Affiliate Members 1 9. Total Adherents Age Distribution of Active Members: 25 and under Over Average Attendance at Sunday Worship Christian Education Enrollment by Age Group: Birth 3 11 Age 4 5 Kindergarten 8 1 st Grade 4 2 nd Grade 3 3 rd Grade 7 4 th Grade 5 5 th Grade 3 6 th Grade 5 7 th Grade 8 8 th Grade 3 9 th Grade 2 10 th Grade 8 11 th Grade 4 12 th Grade 1 Young Adult 6 Over Teachers and Officers 19 Total Christian Education Enrollment Baptisms Children: 4 Adults: Active Officers: Elders Men: 5 Women: 6 Deacons Men: 2 Women: Are the Trustees members of the Session? Yes 16. Additional Information: Marriages: Member: 1 Non-Member: 0 10

14 APC Annual Report (2017) Board of Deacons Our Mission as Deacons: It is our duty as deacons, first, to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in need both within and beyond the community of faith while encouraging members of the Congregation to participate in the mercy of ministry. The Ardmore Presbyterian Church (APC) Board of Deacon ministries consist of: APC Food Pantry; Hospitality (Coffee Hour and Lemonade on the Lawn); Emergency Meals; Visitation to home bound members; communication with members through These Days mailings and our church Hugs List ; Cookies for College Kids ; stocking APC s First Aid kits and transportation assistance. Community outreach in 2017 included a blood drive, support of IHN dinners, assistance with the CROP Walk, and Christmania. In addition to these Ministries, the deacons also attend meetings of the various APC Committees to confirm that we have a good understanding of their work and how we can contribute. During the year, the deacons were delighted to continue a collaboration with the Food Bank at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Clifton Heights with a tithe from our Food Pantry fund. Trinity has seen a marked increase in the use of their food assistance program over time and their Pastor, the Reverend Sara Hodsden, and members of the church are thankful for this assistance provided by APC and its deacons. The Deacons, in collaboration with the APC Mission Committee, were also pleased to contribute a financial donation to relief efforts for the residents of Puerto Rico after they suffered from devastating weather in Some highlights for the Deacons in 2017 included: weekly fellowship through Lemonade on the Lawn and Coffee Hour, our after-worship fellowship time; visitation and communication (Hugs List) with our members who are home bound; Lunch, in conjunction with the Music Department, for APC members and visitors who attended the Paul and Company Musical performed by APC Youth under Gary Garletts direction; Deacon Sunday in April where we participated in all aspects of worship. Deacons acted as ushers, liturgists, led the Children s Moment, and delivered the sermon that day. Our goals for Deacon Sunday were to be sure that members knew each of us individually; for them to be aware of our ministries in the event they or someone they know needed assistance; and after prayerful consideration of how their talents could best be used to encourage their participation in Deacon and church ministries. Sincere thanks to the Reverend Sturgis Poorman for his leadership of worship on Deacon Sunday. Community outreach included our Food Pantry, which provides groceries to those in need, a blood drive benefiting the public where 38 pints of blood were donated to the American Red Cross and working collaboratively with Gerry Gaugler, our Director of Youth and Children, on the CROP Walk. For the second year, Christmania, was held in the Mill Creek room on a Saturday in December. Here APC youth, Luke and Ethan Toerien led by Gerry Gaugler along with our Pastor James and the deacons held a half-day program for APC youth and Pre-K children 3 to 11 years old that kept them happy while their parents could spend the time shopping. St. Nicholas himself (James) made an appearance and Luke and Ethan were great with the children. Elizabeth Luff did a wonderful job of leading the children in dance to The Nutcracker to keep them content and active. The year 2017 also found the Deacons participating consistently in church-wide programs such as Sunday Prayer Group meetings; serving Communion at Lenten Services; the Spiritual Enrichment Retreat; and Shine-Up Saturdays. Deacon ministries greatly benefited from the involvement of members of the Congregation who shared in the work during the year. The participation of APC members is crucial to the successful completion of Deacon programs and makes those individuals, the Deacon ministries, as well as the Church, vibrant and stronger. Scripture tells us that Jesus was among us as one who serves (Luke 22:27). His willingness to humbly serve others and to lead by example provides the Deacons with the faith and strength to donate our time, talent, and treasury to the congregation and community throughout the year. Got Deacons? is our maxim. It gives us with the motivation to serve and we want APC members to say we sure do if they are ever asked that question. We look forward to continuing to serve our members as well as the community in 2018 and the future! Members of the APC Board of Deacons for 2017 were: Jessie DiNome, Elizabeth Luff, Beth Nierenberg, Anna Poorman, Joanne Poorman, Mary Schreiber, Alicia Templeton, Viola Terwiesch, Anne Warner, Debbie Young, John Abrams, with APC Staff support from the Reverend James Hodsden and Session representative Jill Fowler. John Abrams, Moderator 11

15 APC Annual Report (2017) Building and Grounds Committee The Building and Grounds Committee oversees the ongoing maintenance of our church building, Parish House, and property. It also makes long range plans for major improvements and renovations. They are assisted by the Shine-Up Saturday volunteers who seek to do repair projects, under the leadership of Alan Abel, so that outside vendors do not need to be hired. Budget B&G expenses were $10,000 under budget for The B&G budget for 2017 was $114,000, which includes expenses that we don t control such as utilities. Actual spending was $103,400. The difference was due to lower electric utility costs ($4,200 below budget), and lower costs on plumbing, electrical work, and HVAC service contracts. The savings from HVAC contracts should continue; plumbing and electrical expenses will likely be higher in Significant Changes and Projects Completed in Extensive gutter work and caulking. 2. Restructured HVAC service contract to save several thousand dollars per year. 3. Outside playground ground: leveled and removed tripping hazards. 4. Ongoing plaster repair, painting, and general maintenance. 5. Redo Blue Room to Green Room. 6. Dishwasher water booster replacement. 7. Renegotiation of fees from House of God s light. (Not a B&G item, but relevant). Fees approximately doubled. 8. Gerry Gaugler has taken over Church Staff leadership of B&G from Walter Haenn. Significant Upcoming Projects in Organ roof overhaul: $12k. This project had been approved by Session in Fall 2017, but the contractor was unable to begin until Parish House exterior work: $35k-$40k. This project had been approved by Session in Fall 2017, but the contractor was unable to begin until Exterior masonry repair for leaking areas of Sanctuary and Library. 4. New playground equipment (in partnership with the preschool). 5. Possibly some significant work on the deteriorating main valves. 6. Consider new janitorial service. Volunteers Shine-Up Saturday volunteers did a significant amount of work repainting many walls in the Parish House and Church, making many repairs throughout the church and Parish House, and other work. We greatly appreciate their efforts. We invite anyone in the church family with an interest in our building and grounds to join us on the committee. The Building and Grounds Committee meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:15 p.m. in the Church Library Building and Grounds Members: Alan Abel, Elaine Giese, Jim Rowe, Gerry Gaugler, Jeff Shaver, Peggy Shaver, and Ben Yurchak Ben Yurchak, Chairperson 12

16 APC Annual Report (2017) Christian Education Committee Our Mission: By the grace of God the Christian Education committee strives to equip members of Ardmore Presbyterian Church as disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ by providing excellent educational opportunities for all. Affirming the central role of Scriptures, we encourage the strengthening of our faith, our growing together as a community of believers, and our bearing witness to the good news of Jesus Christ to all people. Members: Cathie Calkins, Dan DelDuca, Bruce Kozak, Anna Poorman, Cathy Stewart, Kathy Toal. Staff: James Hodsden, Gerry Gaugler. Over the past year, the Committee has contributed to the following: Children s Sunday School ran on a school calendar with volunteer teachers from the APC congregation. Wednesday Plus: This program offers children (PreK through 5 th grade) opportunities to sing, do crafts, learn and fellowship together and is led cooperatively by Gary Garletts, Gerry Gaugler and volunteers contributing leadership and suppers. Vacation Bible School is a week-long program (preschoolers through 5 th grade, including Middle and Senior High students as volunteer leaders) that is offered annually in June. The VBS theme was Camp EDGE, a theme that was continued in the Children s Sunday School during the rest of the summer. Middle High and Senior High fellowship meets on Sunday evenings in the Parish House for dinner, Christian fellowship, learning and projects. Sunday School Scope and Sequence. Anna Poorman completed an extensive evaluation of 3-year plans for the Children s Sunday School as a help in the selection and planned use of curricula to be used for each age. Weekday Preschool, under the direction of Michele Butera, continues to be an important part of our church s mission and outreach to Christians. We are making an effort to include preschool families in APC events. Criminal background checks are required for all volunteer teaching staff as well as preschool teachers and staff for the preschool as part of APC s continuing program for protection of children and youth under our care. These checks were processed for new volunteers and preschool teachers prior to any volunteer s involvement with children or youth programs. Files for this policy are maintained confidentially in the church office. Adult New Member Class Pastor James and Elders meet with new members to talk about their faith and involvement in the church, including dinner with church leaders to learn more about us and the church. Every fall, How to Spell Presbyterian is offered for potential new members. Adult Sunday AM Class (before worship) From January until Easter, James Hodsden led this class using 2 programs, including The Promised Land, and The Life and Ministry of Jesus from Ray VanderLaan s video/discussion series That the World May Know. These videos explore the places, people and events important in the Old and New Testaments. After Easter and in preparation for the mission trip to Belize, Gerry Gaugler led a 6-week class based on the book and video series When Helping Hurts that focused on Mission. For summer, an eight-week Sunday morning class was organized around a program written by Tim Keller, entitled Gospel in Life; Grace Changes Everything, led by members of the class using Keller s videos and discussion guide. In the fall, the class undertook a 10-week study of Paul s Letter to the Romans led by Bruce Kozak. For 7 weeks starting with Advent, Gary Garletts and James Hodsden led a class on Christmas and the Carols considering each of the themes of the Carols; including Old Testament themes, the Incarnation, Angels and Shepherds and Wise Men. 13

17 Adult Small Groups in 2017 included the following: Wednesday Noon Small Groups, Lunch 12:30-1:30 p.m.: Women s Lunch: The Reformation, initiated by James Hodsden and then led by Elaine Giese. Men s Lunch: The Reformation initiated and led by James Hodsden. Saturday Morning Men s Small Group First Saturday each month: 8:00-9:00 a.m.; led by James Hodsden. Wednesday Plus Bible Study for Adults: James led a study of the book of Titus, one of the Pastoral epistles wrestling with the real-world difficulties of a church in a dominant culture hostile to the gospel prior to his sabbatical. This group started up again in the fall with James leading a study of the book of Judges, which is continuing in The Spiritual Enrichment Retreat (SER) created in 2008 by a bequest from a church member had been held annually. This year 4 different events focused on different church populations that were held at different times during the year. The first event was held on Sunday, March 19, 2017 evening; featuring a dinner with the Reverend Bill Carter, pastor of Clarks Summit Presbyterian Church and jazz pianist speaking about the Importance of Sabbath and playing some of his jazz compositions. The second event on March 26, featured Dr. Elsie McKee, Professor of Reformation Studies and the History of Worship at Princeton Seminary. She led the adult Sunday AM class, preached and presented a Sunday afternoon program on Reformation and the Church. The third event was a workshop held on October 14 in which the Reverend Nate Grella, a Teaching, Spiritual Formation, and Shepherding Pastor at Capital Area Christian Church discussed Raising Kids in the Faith. The low attendance at this event highlighted the urgent need for dealing with interactive PR at APC for events such as these. The final event was a half-day leadership retreat on November targeted at Elders and Deacons led by Joan Gray, Pastor, teacher, and author of The Sailboat Church and former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church. She also preached in Sunday worship and led the adult Sunday AM class. The libraries are a great resource for all our members. We maintain a children s library and the William Faulds Memorial Library which houses the main library for adults. This is a great resource for the Sunday School and preschool teachers FUTURE PLANNING The Alpha series will run from Jan. April Volunteers have been scheduled to host, prepare and serve dinners, provide music, run the AV and to lead discussion groups. The series began on Sunday, Jan. 21 st and will run from 5:00 7:15 PM for 12 weeks. Nine participants and 6 group leaders and coleaders attended the first session. All were from the APC congregation. Confirmation Class with combined 7 th and 8 th graders began regular 9 AM meetings on Sunday, Jan. 14 th. We invite anyone with an interest in Christian Education for children, youth, or adults to join our committee. We welcome new ideas, approaches, thoughts, as well as those interested in helping with or participating in the current program. The Christian Education Committee meets in the Board Room at 7:30 on the second Tuesday of the month. Catherine Calkins, Moderator 14

18 APC Annual Report (2017) Fellowship & Outreach Committee The mission of the Fellowship & Outreach Committee is to offer hospitality, friendship and connection among members of the Church and members of the community. We accomplish this by providing opportunities for hospitality and fellowship originated by the F&O committee to reflect our mission. We will also try to offer support for other committees events as we are able. Key areas of focus for the Fellowship & Outreach Committee include: Encouraging all to get to know one another so that we can be supportive of each other as we seek to grow in Christ: Considering ways in which we can participate in the community and reach out to those seeking a church home Helping visitors, prospective members and new members to feel at home at APC and become familiar with the programs and service opportunities offered by the Church Engaging interested visitors, prospective members and current member in the life of the Church During 2017, we offered a number of opportunities for fellowship to the congregation including our regular annual events: Reformation Luncheon All-Church Easter Breakfast Reception to Honor Pearlie Diesinger on her Retirement Receptions Following Funeral/Memorial Services at Family Request Receptions for New Members Co-Ed Softball Team (5 th Season) Kick Off (Homecoming) Picnic Advent Family Night Wind Up (Yearend) Strawberry Festival Adult Fellowship including Greening of the Church Activity Tasks completed by the committee included: Replacement of the worn-out pew pad holders Refurbishing and replacement of various materials used in the Greening of the Church Anyone with a heart for hospitality is invited to join our committee. We meet the first Tuesday of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Library Fellowship and Outreach Committee Members: Pat Corl, Tyler Flynn, Holly Frank, Carol Fritz, Sally Moore, Peggy Shaver, Anne Toal and Barbara Wood. Jody Brumbach, Chairperson 15

19 APC Annual Report (2017) Mission Awareness Committee The Mission Awareness Committee (MAC) subject to the oversight of the Session, acts on behalf of the Ardmore Presbyterian Church (APC) to disburse benevolence funds to our mission partners, develop and grow awareness of the ministries which we support, and enable and promote opportunities for APC members to participate in various missionrelated activities. In 2017, with APC s Session taking steps to address budget concerns, the MAC offered to accept a significantly reduced budget. It was still able to accomplish much. With the Session s support, the MAC launched a new ministry, First Place, to provide temporary housing for legal refugees who arrive in this country without permanent housing. The MAC also participated in more joint projects with other churches interested in mission-related efforts. First Place has been funded primarily through a bequest from June Reid, a Covenant Fund Grant from the Philadelphia Presbytery and private donations, including a large contribution from Overbrook Presbyterian Church. In 2017, First Place provided temporary housing in Ardmore to approximately 30 legal refugees from countries all over the world. The MAC sponsored two luncheons in One luncheon highlighted the Welcome Church ministry which provides pastoral care and support to the homeless in Philadelphia. During the luncheon, MAC s Schaunel Steinnagel described her work with the Welcome Church and she introduced women whose lives have been transformed because of experiences with the Welcome Church. The second MAC luncheon was held to share with our congregation the experiences and impressions of APC members who participated in our mission trip to Belize. The Belize trip luncheon was an opportunity for APC s congregation to learn about our shared efforts with Paoli Presbyterian Church which included a vision trip to multiple locations and ministries in Belize supported by our mission partner Word at Work. There is clearly a need in Belize which can be addressed by our continued relationships with both the Word at Work and local churches in Belize. Moreover, our relationship with Paoli Presbyterian Church is expanding as we join with them to address mission-related efforts. In 2017, many churches in the Philadelphia area, including APC s MAC, participated in a mission conference hosted by Paoli Presbyterian Church. The conference included many mission-related lectures and fellowship opportunities. APC s Sturge Poorman was a featured speaker addressing what it means to welcome the stranger in terms of providing support to refugees. Among the support provided by the MAC in 2017, was a contribution to help celebrate the Philadelphia Presbytery s 300 th Anniversary and funding for the food bank at the Puerto Rico church where APC member Rocio Cardona now attends. APC participated in three denomination-wide offerings One Great Hour of Sharing ($ ) which supports Presbyterian disaster assistance; the Peacemaking Offering ($992.00); and the Christmas Joy Offering ($ ) which provides for retired pastors living on fixed incomes as well as students at racial/ethnic colleges and universities sponsored by PCUSA. The APC Garden ministry provided much of its bounty in 2017 to ElderNet, a longstanding APC mission partner. The MAC continues to work to foster, maintain and expand our relationships with mission partners and supporters, including other local churches who share our interest in mission-related activities. MAC efforts include providing minutes for mission during worship services, luncheons, trips and volunteer opportunities. In 2018, the MAC intends to nurture our existing relationships and possibly undertake a mission trip to Puerto Rico or elsewhere in addition to continuing to provide local mission-related activities for those who are interested. Our efforts will also include trying to make First Place self-supporting and finding local partners with whom we can share and participate in additional worthwhile mission-related activities. The MAC thanks all who have contributed their time, energy, resources and prayers to enable our committee to carry out our mission to transform lives, in the name of Jesus, of people in our neighborhood, in our country and around the world. MAC members: Anne Conroy, Gary Lovett, Rev. Sturge Poorman, Rev. Schaunel Steinnagel, Gerry Gaugler, Kossi Sedzro, Bill Toal (Chairperson). 16

20 A chart of the MAC s disbursements and special offering receipts for 2017 is below. Presbytery Mission $ 3, St. Luke s Hospital, Nablus, West Bank $ 1, The Welcome Church - Rev. Schaunel Steinnagel $ 4, Kuwadzana Presbyterian Church Hunger Relief Fund $ 2, Caring Hands Ministry - Arun & Shobha Massey/India $ 1, Medical Benevolence Foundation $ 1, Welcoming the Stranger $ 3, Word at Work - Belize $ 2, Build-it-Bus $ 1, West Kensington Ministry $ 4, Souper Bowl of Caring (to ElderNet) $ One Great Hour of Sharing (disbursed) $ 2, Peacemaking Offering (disbursed) $ Christmas Joy Offering (receipts only - not disbursed yet) $ 5, Puerto Rico Food Pantry (disbursed) $ Hurricane Relief (disbursed) $ 3, Presbytery 300th Anniversary Gift (disbursed) $ 1, First Place Home for New Refugees (disbursements only) $ 18, $ 57, Bill Toal, Chairperson 17

21 APC Annual Report (2017) Pre-Med Hospice Ministry On March 25, 2014, the Ardmore Presbyterian Church adopted a ministry that had no home. A few years before, Winifred Cutler was inspired after hearing a sermon on a Sunday morning in her church with some brilliant questions. As a scientist involved in the medical field and as someone who cared for a parent at the end of life, she asked, How do we deepen a doctor s understanding of the dignity of all people? How do we find a better way to educate doctors about end of life issues? How can people of faith play a role? Winifred along with some wonderful people created a ministry. It partners pre-med students, who are looking for experience dealing with patients, with hospices who need volunteers. The ministry provides a chaplain to walk with the students as they deal with some tough issues relating to life and death. When I first discovered the ministry, it was looking for a new home, and Ardmore Presbyterian Church adopted it. We then added our own touch. We provided leadership to shepherd the expansion of the ministry, and we provided a caring environment for these students. We pray for them. We provide a lunch for them. We celebrate their accomplishments together. As we expand to places like Pittsburgh, New Jersey, Virginia, and Arizona, Ardmore Presbyterian Church is now the home of a national ministry. We are involved in some great things here. Don t keep it a secret. You should meet some of these great students. Following worship during coffee hour, talk to some of them. Let them know how much we appreciate them. If you can stay for lunch, we would love to have you. In this season of Thanksgiving, we are thankful for Winifred Cutler and Thomas Quay who brought this ministry to life. We are thankful to Rev. Graham Robinson who makes the ministry happen each day. We are thankful to the Task Force members who provide wisdom and leadership for the ministry. We are thankful to the Ardmore Presbyterian Church who followed the prompting of the Holy Spirit to adopt this ministry. We are thankful to God for his grace and mercy. In closing, I would like to offer the same prayer that the session offered on March 25, O Merciful God, you are the Great Physician. You created us, and you call us to love. Help us to see the weak and the vulnerable as made in your image. We pray especially for those at the end of life. We pray that they may know compassion and grace. Help their doctors to care for them as full human beings deserving of respect and dignity. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ, the one who defeated the last enemy, death. Amen. James Hodsden, Senior Pastor 18

22 APC Annual Report (2017) Stewardship and Finance Committee The 2018 Budget Process. The preparation of the 2018 budget for Ardmore Presbyterian Church began in earnest in November, and is nearing finalization. While our goal was to approve a budget by December 2017, our need to have a more solid handle on pledges than we have in the past (so as to more realistically estimate revenue) has delayed us. We expect to have a new budget approved in January, and possibly by the time this report is published. Financial Condition Going into As we made plain last year, the financial condition of the Church continues to be a concern, although we are managing it carefully. Our primary challenge is the same: we are losing financially generous saints through death, departure, and changing circumstances faster than we are gaining them. Thus, our cash expenditures over time have significantly exceeded our annual giving, requiring not only withdrawals from ARDPRES, and our supplementary income of about $22,000 from the McCarty Trust, but borrowing from restricted cash funds. In 2017, we funded a portion of our operating requirements from the internal borrowing against restricted funds, and thus have delayed drawing our full budgeted amount from ARDPRES by about $70,000. As we go forward, we expect to consolidate funds which are similar in purpose to reduce the number of designated accounts to a more manageable level. We do expect to fully draw on what has been budgeted from ARDPRES to support our operating needs through A combination of right-sizing our payroll (cost savings) and the need to standardize benefits for staff (cost increases) has reduced our 2018 payroll to a net budgeted $402,000 from a projected 2017 actual of $455,000. But our tithes and offerings based on actual pledges for 2018 as of are only $378,000 in other words, not enough to cover payroll. Our total operating expenditures budgeted for 2018 are approaching twice that at $719,000. This year s summary is the same as last year s: a spending gap of this nature is irresponsible stewardship, and unsustainable for a church our size. What for 2018? The Session is in the latter stages of finalizing a strategic plan for the church. The plan will address concerns that have been revealed by these last two budgets our need for more revenue. That will only come in a sustained way from growth in the size of our congregation. Thus, in addition to our operating requirements, we expect to make some strategic capital draws from ARDPRES to fund one-time investment expenditures related to the execution of the plan. We were blessed during 2017 with excellent returns on ARDPRES, which is in the balanced Vanguard Life Strategy Moderate Growth Fund. Thus, we expect to be able to make strategic draws without compromising our future. The Session did explicitly vote during 2017 against raiding ARDPRES to fund excessive operating expenditures. Our desire is to preserve this crucial asset to the extent possible so that it can continue to help close our operating funding gap indefinitely through annual investment returns. We believe in a robust future for Ardmore Presbyterian Church, and are committed to fighting for it! Serving on the Committee for In addition to myself, our committee is composed of Dick Corl, Harry Hannigan, Tim Patterson, Matthew Taylor, Alicia Templeton, and Pastor James Hodsden. We are delighted to welcome Lisa Gaugler as our bookkeeper. Susan Michaelson, Chairperson 19