Parish Profile 3329 Wilson Street Hollywood,Florida (954) Produced: May 2017

Transcription

1 Parish Profile 3329 Wilson Street Hollywood,Florida (954) Produced: May 2017

2 Table of Contents Page Welcome Our Mission and Vision Statement.. 4 Collect for the Calling of a New Rector.. 5 Our Parish....6 Parish Demographics...7 Parish Membership..8 Parish History...9 Worshipping Together Parish Ministries Stewardship Statement Searching Together Our Next Rector Lead and Encourage New Ideas Support Our Youth Encourage Stewardship Challenges for the Future Parish Rectory Parish Facilities Vestry/Search Committee / Staff

3 Welcome to our Parish Profile WELCOME and GREETINGS on behalf of the members of St. James in-the-hills Episcopal Church. We are pleased to present you with a copy of our Parish Profile, which shares the story of our church s Christian journey over the last 56 years. Much prayer, love and dedicated teamwork went into the development of this church profile. We pray that the information will enhance your understanding of St. James s mission, vision, strengths and challenges as a faith community led by the Holy Spirit. Matthew 7:7 reads: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened for you. Jesus teaching on prayer is guiding our search for the next rector of St. James. In Christ, The Search Committee 3

4 Fulfilling Our Mission St James s mission is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and to invite all of God s diverse community into a personal relationship with our Lord. Our Vision Statement St. James s vision is to invite all people into an encounter with God s love and share this love with one another in fellowship. 4

5 Collect for the Calling of a New Rector A lmighty God, giver of every good gift: look graciously on your Church, and so guide the minds of those who shall choose a rector for this parish, that we may receive a faithful pastor, who will care for your people and equip us for our ministries; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 5

6 Our Parish Who are we? St. James in-the-hills is an Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Southeast Florida and a member of the worldwide Anglican Communion with over 70 million members in 163 countries. We uphold the catholic tradition as it was handed over to the church by Jesus and His disciples. We are biblically-based, Christ-centered and a liturgical congregation. We believe in Jesus Christ as Savior, Holy Scripture to be the Word of God and the primary source of doctrine. At St. James everyone is welcome, especially those interested in establishing a relationship with Jesus, growing in faith, receiving the grace of God s salvation and forgiveness, walking with Jesus in daily life or just seeking to belong to a Christian community. We offer opportunities for spiritual growth through Bible Study in English and Spanish; Healing Services; and Sunday School for children of all ages; Youth Ministry; Choir and Spiritual Retreats. Three opportunities to worship Christ are available on Sundays : Rite I 8:00 a.m., Rite II 9:30 a.m., Rite II in Spanish 11:30 a.m. 6

7 Parish Demographics Gender Age Greater than age % Female 1 72% :::::::::::J 18% I 23% Male 1 28% ;J 3% Members under Age 20 J 2% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 0% 10% 20% 30%40% 50% 60% Asian/Other ~ 5% Ethnic Background Hispanic 15% Persons in Household 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% One ] 3 1% While :::J 47% Two =oj 46% Black I 33% Three or Four 1 24 % 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% Distance to Church miles ~==:r===:r=-_...j 28% 4-10 miles 1 to 4 miles ~----~--' 34% less than 1 mile :=J 5% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% Above data represent 70 responses to 134 surveys distributed in early

8 Parish Membership Pledge Information: Pledging members Average $ per pledge $1,999 $2,150 $2,003 $1,963 $1,421 Financial Assets (as of 12/31/2016): Cash in the Bank $123,476 Savings and Endowment $125,389 ((Information from 2016 Parochial Report, Recorded pledges and 2016 Statements) 8

9 Parish History The concept to establish a second Episcopal church in the city of Hollywood was conceived at St. John s Episcopal Church in Hollywood. The first service for the newly developed mission was held on October 8, 1961 in the Oakridge school cafeteria in Hollywood. The mission started with twenty- three faithful families. The people appointed by St. John s to the mission committee, were: James Harris, Robert Reidenbach, Michael Rutecky and William Hanes. In 1962, the vestry of St. John s recommended the approval of St. James as a mission to the Diocese and on May 01,1962 of the same year, mission status was granted. On May 4, 1969, St. James was admitted to parish status at the Diocese convention. St. James s first vicar was The Rev. Edward Pennel, Jr., who served from 1962 to He was succeeded by The Rev. Edward Manning, 1964 to to 1992 ~ The Rev. Norman Feaster, 1994 to 1997 ~ The Rev. Glenda Ruppe Melnyk and the The Rev. W. William Melnyk 1998 to 2003 ~ The Rev. Ramon Aymerich 2005 to 2013 ~ The Rev. Orlando J. Addison 2013 to 2015 ~ The Rev. Paul J. Kane was called as Priest-in- Charge. He served in that capacity until November 2015 which brings us to our present search. Deacon Robert E Damon became our Deacon May 30,

10 Worshipping Together The formal worship at St. James in-the-hills parish includes services on Sundays and special holidays. Our style of worship is moderate tending toward high church. The worship services are assisted and supported by the Deacon and seven lay organizations. Services are held three times on Sundays: Rite I 8:00 a.m., Rite II 9:30 a.m. and Rite II Spanish 11:30 a.m. Each service is tailored to facilitate the different needs of the parish, while focusing on the community and the sharing of the word of God. The sermon is definitely one of the highlights of our service and is important to the congregation. It is recognized as a means to teach the word of God, to inspire and to fill a need for each parishioner, either right then, while sitting in their pews or at another time in their life. The 8:00 a.m. service is a Holy Eucharist using Rite I. Attendants tend to be the senior representation of the parish. There is no music or singing at this service, except on Easter Sunday. A pre-assigned lay reader from the congregation reads the lesson. There is one chalice bearer who performs all acolyte duties. Our Deacon usually reads the Gospel and Prayers of the People. The 9:30 a.m. Holy Eucharist Rite II service has the largest attendance, with the emphasis on the unity of the family. For this service, a nursery is available for children ages 3 and under. And one can appreciate the diversity of our congregation. Music is an integral part of this celebration and the choir plays an extremely important role. They participate in the procession and lead the worshippers in singing the processional, offertory, communion, and recessional hymns. Incense is used for special occasions during the year. 10

11 Worshipping Together The priest is assisted by the Deacon and two Eucharistic minsters in which one reads the Prayers of the People. The acolytes perform a full range of duties including Crucifier, First and Second Servers and Torchbearers. The 9:30 a.m. service offers a Sunday school program for children. Just after the Gospel is read, the children and their teachers leave the service to attend Sunday school and return during the exchange of the Peace. The 11:30 a.m. service offers Holy Eucharist Rite II in Spanish. There is a procession to the altar and acolytes assist the priest. Lay Readers come up from the congregation and later return to administer the chalice. The service is upbeat and accompanied by music sung in Spanish. For all services, birthdays, wedding anniversaries and special thanksgivings are recognized before the congregation during every service. At the conclusion of each service, parishioners gather in Feaster Hall for coffee, refreshments, and most importantly for just good, old-fashioned, fellowship. It is there that we meet and make any newcomers welcome. 11

12 Parish Ministries Acolytes: The Acolytes are active at the parish and diocesan level. They participate in the annual Diocesan Acolyte Festival and every three years participate in the National Acolyte Festival in Washington D.C. Training Sessions take place each month except July and August. These training sessions have been beneficial for the acolytes to learn about the meaning of our church s rituals and the role they play in assisting church officials. Altar Guild: Members set up for each service and clean up afterward. The duties include: setting up for baptisms, marriages, memorial services and ordering altar supplies. When necessary, priestly garments and colored altar linings are dry cleaned. Twice yearly, the members clean the Sanctuary. Baccalaureate Ministry: Graduations are milestones that shout for recognition and celebration. This ministry recognizes the importance of setting aside a Sunday worship service for our graduates and their parents. Evidence of God s handiwork is apparent as the community of faith gathers for worship. Graduates are recognized from kindergarten, middle school, high school and college. An address is given by the priest, a guest speaker or one of the graduates. The graduates are also assigned the roles of readers and chalice bearers for this service. Fellowship follows after the service in Feaster Hall. 12

13 Parish Ministries Bible Study: Our study of the gospel and history of the early Church meets weekly in both English and Spanish and makes use of DVDs, lectures and group discussions. Christian Formation and Education Commission: The Commission exists to advise and recommend to the Rector and Vestry, education programs for adults and children, that will deepen every Christian person's life in God. Cursillo: This ministry is focused on three principles: Piety, Study, and Action. This focus challenges all members to live the Christian Lifestyle daily, to grow in faith and in spirituality and to attain a deeper understanding of the eachings of Jesus and how we can serve Him. Cursillo members hold regular reunions and support the annual Cursillo Weekend. Daughters of the King: The Daughters honor their vows by receiving requests from the congregation to pray for the sick and infirmed. They celebrate a Corporate Communion every fifth Sunday at the 9:30 a.m. service. 13

14 Parish Ministries Episcopal Church Women (ECW): ECW is a group of loving and dedicated women who support the homeless in South Florida and the women and children in Madagascar, while hosting several special events during the year. They annually sponsor a young girl who attends Little Roses in Honduras, provide bag lunches every other month for the homeless at St. Laurence Chapel in Pompano Beach, and contribute to parishioner Jacky Lowe s mission trip to Madagascar. ECW also hosts the Ladies Tea and Chili Cook-off annually, coordinate and give financial support to the United Thank Offering and Church Periodical Club. All women are considered part of the ECW ministry. Jubilee Center: The Jubilee Center serves the homeless, and poor at a facility in Hollywood. St James is one of the four Episcopal parishes that own and provide major support for the work of the Center. Their feeding program provides a healthy, nutritious meal Monday through Friday, averaging over 120 meals each day. The counselors of the Jubilee Office of Social Services interview, listen and provide service to the unique needs of each client. The Jubilee Center also provides food and gifts annually at Thanksgiving and Christmas for needy families and their children. Lay Eucharistic Ministry: Lay Eucharistic Ministers serve as Lay Readers and Chalice Bearers. They are licensed by the Diocese. The Lay Eucharistic Visitor Ministers reach out to the sick, shut-in, and those needing home communion and anointing. 14

15 Parish Ministries Lay Reader Ministry: Lay readers are pre-assigned to each service. They are trained and certified by the Rector. They are encouraged to research and practice each lesson in advance of the service. Music Ministry: The Chancel Contemporary Choir provides the music for the 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. services on each Sunday and at special events and services. Newcomers Ministry: The Newcomers Ministry includes Greeters and Ushers who identify visitors and welcome them to the family of St. James. St. Anne's Guild: The St. Anne's Guild is a women's group. Whose purpose is to provide financial support for other ministries and needs of the church. Sunday School: Sunday school provides a place for children, preschool to high school, to grow spiritually using the curriculum "Growing in Christ". All teachers are certified with Safeguards for Children and Youth which is adopted by the Diocese of Southeast Florida. 15

16 Parish Ministries T.H.U.G. (True Heroes Under God) Youth Group: is for both junior and high school students to grow as individuals while exploring ideas, values, and faith within the context of a supportive community of peers and adults. It seeks to help youth share their gifts, grow in life skills, develop a positive self-image, overcome prejudices, develop respect for differences, serve those in need, and foster social change. Website and Social Media Ministry: This ministry is dedicated to updating and maintaining our social media, and St. James s E-newsletter to bring awareness to the parish. 16

17 Stewardship Statement Our lives of stewardship at St. James are lived in thanksgiving for God s love, gifts and grace. We realize that we are called to be good stewards of all that God has given us. The Church supports has a healthy balance sheet and one half-time office administrator, and part-time staff of an organist, bookkeeper, nursery attendant, and sexton. Current assets of cash, annuity, and savings at the end of 2015 were over $ 181,000, not including the church and rectory properties. These liquid assets have grown to more than $262,000 through November of There is no long term debt. Our primary liabilities and reserves are the Capital Improvement Fund ($92,000) and the Maxwell Garden Fund for maintaining our small garden cemetery ($14,000). The primary sources of income for St. James are from pledging members and leases made with Memorial Regional Hospital System for daycare facilities and parking. Non-pledging members and income from groups using our parish hall (primarily AA and NA) comprise the income balance. A summary of the income and expense results are included below. Financial History and Budget Actual Budget Actual Budget Total Income Parish Income: pledge contributions 165, , , ,000 plate contributions 12,194 11,000 9,152 10,000 holiday and other income 9,129 9,200 2,862 7,200 income shortfall from reserves 18,500 Subtotal Parish Income 186, , , ,700 Other Income: memorial lease income 64,919 77,865 84,640 84,300 building use, other 11,475 12,000 11,202 12,000 Subtotal Other Income 76,394 89,865 95,842 96,300 Total Income 262, , , ,000 17

18 Stewardship Statement Financial History and Budget (continued) Actual Budget Actual Budget Total Expenses Clergy: Full time 10 mo. Full time 8 mo. Actual Full time 8 mo. rector stipend 73,008 32, ,926 housing allowance pension 17,518 13,900 (3,307) 14,400 medical 10,370 9,768 9,600 other clergy benefits 12,922 9,416 (681) 11,154 supply clergy 7,604 11,300 26,980 13,170 Subtotal Clergy 121,422 76,925 22,992 84,250 Staff: secretary 15,030 16,150 16,530 16,554 organist 14,427 13,850 14,427 14,196 other staff part time 10,839 12,200 11,117 12,500 sexton (part time) ,000 Subtotal Staff Salaries 40,296 42,200 42,074 58,250 Building & Grounds: 25,123 32,800 30,489 28,000 office expense 7,000 6,900 6,645 9,900 diocesan assessment 15,053 19,000 15,333 12,000 operating expense 37,834 36,140 30,016 34,500 programs/ministries 31,347 11,100 13,588 11,100 Outreach: jubilee center 1,425 5,700 5,700 5,700 jubilee building 0 4,000 4,000 2,000 other Subtotal Outreach 1,625 9,700 9,700 7,700 Utilities: church 23,896 22,000 24,440 23,000 rectory 2,244 3,300 2,358 3,300 church telephone, internet 2,528 2,300 2,900 2,300 telephone, rectory ,200 Subtotal Utilities 28,668 27,600 29,698 29,800 Worship / Music 5,535 4,500 3,885 4,500 Total Expense 313, , , ,000 Income less Expenses $ (50,908.00) $ (6,000.00) $ 40, (See $18,500 from Reserves) 18

19 Our Next Rector Searching Together We desire a rector with a strong background in biblical and theological knowledge who is called not only to continue to lead us spiritually, but to deepen our relationship with the Living God. Having an entrepreneurial spirit will be key to increasing our membership and furthering collaborative relationships with the community. Lead and Encourage New Ideas One of the intended changes in our parish as in our community is not merely the acceptance of all persons, but providing opportunities and encouragement for more members to serve in our various ministries. We recognize that while many at St. James are traditionally conservative, some are not and, therefore, we are divided on the issue of same sex unions. We seek a rector who is nimble and open, with leadership and ministerial skills in conflict resolution that will help bring about positive change. Support Our Youth Our youth need a rector who not only positively interacts with them, but also encourages them to continue the work of the Lord in our parish as well as in the community. We seek a rector who relates well with the youth and will be involved on a consistent basis to support the development of youth-led ministries, allow them to be active participants within the worship service, including but not limited to the Acolytes guild and foster the spiritual growth of our church school. Encourage Stewardship Stewardship involves communicating generosity in giving our time, talent, and treasure. St. James draws all three of these from its membership. The traditional concept of treasure is addressed throughout the year in a variety of ways with a special focus occurring in the Fall when pledge cards are distributed. Recognizing that there is always room for growth in this area, we welcome a rector who has creative and exciting ways to assist our growth in stewardship. 19

20 Challenges for the Future The 21st Century will continue to be filled with challenges and anxieties for Christians. According to data collected from the parish survey, St. James s challenge is centered on GROWTH as it pertains to evangelism, leadership, and stewardship. EVANGELISM promises to be a significant solution for addressing the challenge of growth. Research states that a personal invitation results in bringing people to God and the Church. The majority of our parishioners do not live in the community where St. James is physically located. Those surveyed made it clear that the Church needs to implement outreach programs that result in not only growth but will attract young people and families. A plan with both short and long term perspectives is needed since community demographics change gradually over time. Another challenge for St. James is in the area of lay LEADERSHIP. Typically, in a small church leadership is performed by the same small group of people and becomes stagnant. We need to improve our leadership development processes and training programs. Once we implement a plan for growth, we are optimistic that new candidates for leadership will come forward. When we train new leaders to support our ministries, we will grow and preserve St. James s legacy. Our vision should afford all the opportunity to lead. The third challenge identified by our survey regards STEWARDSHIP. As Christians, it is our obligation to manage our Christian life by being good stewards of the gifts from God. Our Parish needs a rector who has the fortitude to pursue a comprehensive Stewardship program to provide us with insights to strengthen our personal effectiveness in inviting new members and other resources needed for evangelism. 20

21 Parish Rectory Located in the Hollywood Hills community across the street from the church property, our rectory is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch style home of approximately 1750 sq. ft. with a carport. It is anticipated that our new rector will reside in the rectory which we are currently upgrading. 21

22 Parish Facilities Feaster Hall: This is our parish fellowship hall that is used for parish dinners and events as well as meetings for our parish members and surrounding community. We have several AA and NA groups meeting here during the week, and it is used by the day care on rainy days. The hall is named after Rev. Feaster, one of our long serving Rectors of the Parish. It is currently being renovated with new closets and doors. Kitchen: Kitchen facilities are located within Feaster Hall to serve the many events held there throughout the year. Improvements are planned to replace the aged and non code compliant electric stove. Nursery: Our nursery is used mainly during our 9:30 a.m. church service when we have a nursery attendant on staff to provide care for children ages 3 and under. It is also staffed for special events. Youth Room: A meeting room used by the youth, and many other ministries for their meetings. Restrooms: Our restrooms are in need of renewal and redesign to accommodate those in wheelchairs and comply with ADA requirements. This is on the list of important projects to make St. James an even more welcoming church. 22

23 Vestry Senior Warden...Marvin Beagle Junior Warden.....Claudette Fowler Mechel Clarke Beverly Davis Tanisha Davis Jose Gonzaga Juliana Prescott Pedro Sensat Robert Whitehead Luz Whitehead Betty Cay Stanford Parish Search Committee Chair.....Phil Cooke Beverly Davis Linda Beagle Barbara Becker Claudette Fowler Pedro Sensat Parish Staff Deacon...The Reverend Robert Damon Office Administrator..Alemendra Llerena Organist....Kerry Hart Lesinski Nursery.. Elizabeth Miller Sexton...Richard Sutherland Bookkeeper..Steve Feix Treasurer (Volunteer)..William Bliss 23