Christ Lutheran C hurch LCMC, Warren Annual Report 2017

Transcription

1 Christ Lutheran C hurch LCMC, Warren Annual Report 2017

2 Volume 5 6 Christ Lutheran Church Lutheran Churches in Mission for Christ Connecting Christ to the Community to Renew the World ii

3 Annual Report FOR FI SCAL YEAR 2017 (January 1 December 31) Christ Lutheran Church, LCMC Schoenherr, Warren, MI Phone christlutheranchurchwarren.org ii

4 We...value and hold in highest regard our salvation through the Love of Jesus Christ revealed through the Word of God, which is the basis of our life and ministry together. Our Core Values Welcoming We welcome all God s children who walk through our doors as we celebrate and grow in our relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior. Worship We glorify God, who gives and nourishes faith in the celebration of God s Word, Baptism and Holy Communion through uplifting music and liturgy, preaching and prayer. Spiritual Growth / Learning God calls us to carry His message to the world. We are committed to share our time, talents and treasures to glorify God. We respond to the needs of our Congregation, our community and our world. Prayer Prayer is the cornerstone in nourishing our relationship with God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We need to be in communication by sharing, listening and talking with Him. Health & Wellness We value God s desires for spiritual, psychological, emotional and physical well-being for all of His children. Our Vision: Connecting Christ to the Community to Renew the World Table of Contents Mission Statement 3 Agenda 4 Congregational Meeting Minutes 5-7 Letter from the Pastor 8 Letter from the Council President 9 Foundation 10 Finance Committee 10 Stewardship Committee 11 Property Committee Evangelism Committee Pairs and Spares 18 Fellowship / Communication Committee 19 Youth and Family Ministry Parish Education Committee Office/Volunteerism Worship Committee Statistics List of Staff and council Opening Hymn 33 Finance Report and Budget 2016 Auditors Report, included with Finance Report iii Our Mission C Creating a Christ-centered community H R I S T Healing body and soul through the Word of God Reaching out to those in need Inviting all to hear God s Word Sharing our gifts with others Telling the Good News of Christ Iii Green color paper 2017 Directory Drawing by David Bruesehoff 3

5 2018 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AGENDA January 28, 2018/ 12:15 p.m. Call to order Keith VanDeKerkhove Establish a quorum Opening Prayer Pastor Cave Opening Hymn: Lead On, O King Eternal page 33 Changes or Additions to the agenda Corrections and Acceptance of the Minutes from September 24, 2017 News beyond the reports: President Pastor Council Committees: Evangelism Fellowship Finance Parish Education Property Stewardship Worship Keith VanDeKerkhove Rev. Daniel Cave Gene Pierzchalski & Joe Militello Kathi Frezza and Debbie Brown James Bruesehoff Jennifer Schneider & Randy Byrne Michael Schneider & Dan Zawierucha Anthony Badia Tammy Monteleone & Lee O Bryan 2017 CLC Financial Statements & 2018 Budget Presentation James Bruesehoff Audit Report Old Business 1. New Business Budget Informational items Doxology Praise God, from whom all blessings flow; Praise him, all creatures here below; Praise him above, ye heav nly host; Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen. Lord s Prayer and Blessing Adjournment Pastor Cave Keith VanDeKerkhove 5

6 CLC BIANNUAL MEETING MINUTES CLC BI-ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES September 24, 2017 President Keith VanDeKerkhove called the meeting to order. A quorum was established by Dave Dietz, Council Secretary. Pastor Cave gave the opening prayer. Reading of Minutes/Motion to Waive Reading: Motion by Dave Dietz, seconded by Bob Slavko: Motion to waive the reading of the minutes and to approve the minutes of the Special Congregational Meeting on June 25, 2017 and the 2017 Annual Congregational Meeting on January 29, No discussion. Motion passed. Old Business Roof Update: Pastor Cave gave an update on the Roof Project. A $15,000 first payment was made to GC Roofing and a second payment of $43,200 will be made shortly per the contract. Work is continuing on a steady basis. A third payment of $33,000 is left, along with a 10% hold-back fee which will be paid upon completion and satisfactory inspection of the roof and warranties received. Pastor showed a series of pictures of the roof project which were taken by Scott Cave. Work should be finished by next week. It has been a very good experience working with the contractor. Raise the Roof Campaign Results/Treasurer s Update: Bernie Gallis, Treasurer, gave a report. In June the projected cost of the project was $99,600. With contingencies the final cost is estimated to be $105,000-$110,000. The Raise the Roof Campaign received 76 pledges for a total of $81,000. Of that $81,000, $49,000 was received up-front. We do not have to borrow any funds from outside sources. July and August offerings were $7,600 under budget, and Year-to-Date, we are $10,000 under budget. Third quarter contribution statements should be sent out soon. Bernie stressed that anyone who is behind in their pledge to try and get it current. Bernie thanked the congregation this meeting is his last official meeting as Treasurer. Due to term limitations, Bernie has to step down as Treasurer serving for the past 6 years. The congregation applauded Bernie s commitment for the past 6 years. 6

7 New Business Nomination and Election Keith VanDeKerkhove introduced the Nominating Committee: Dennis Krueger, Betty Stutzky, Gail Dietz, Jamie Centner and Bill Meyer Jamie Centner introduced the Council Candidates. All candidates accepted the nominations. o Keith VanDeKerkhove President o Dennis Krueger Vice President o Gene Pierzchalski Evangelism o Mike Schneider Property o Tammy Monteleone Worship o Jenni Schneider Parish Ed o Jim Bruesehoff Finance o Debbie Brown Fellowship/Communication Sue Bochenek nominated from the floor, Chris Wade, for Treasurer. Chris Wade accepted the nomination, and her name was added to the list of Council Candidates. Sherry Carroll motioned, Gail Dietz seconded: Motion to elect by affirmation the Council Candidates, including Chris Wade as Treasurer. No discussion. Motion approved. Keith VanDeKerkhove introduced the new Council: o Keith VanDeKerkhove President o Dennis Krueger Vice President o Dave Dietz Secretary o Chris Wade Treasurer o Gene Pierzchalski (new) & Joe Militello Evangelism o Mike Schneider (new) & Dan Zawierucha Property o Tammy Monteleone (new) & Lee O Bryan Worship o Jenni Schneider (new) & Randy Byrne Parish Education o Jim Bruesehoff Finance o Tony Badia Stewardship o Debbie Brown (new) & Kathi Frezza Communication/Fellowship o Keith VanDeKerkhove recognized and thanked the out-going members of Council: Bernie Gallis- Treasurer, Patty Zawierucha Property and Carol Blohm Evangelism. New Nominating Committee: The new Nominating Committee members are Michele Neubauer, CB Wade, Phil & Marilyn Steinke and Debbie Brown. Meeting closed with reciting the Lord s Prayer. Motion by Dave Dietz, seconded by Dennis Krueger: Motion to adjourn the meeting. No discussion. Motion passed. Submitted by Sue Bochenek, Recording Secretary 7

8 From the PASTOR PASTOR S ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR OF OUR LORD, 2017 Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me (Revelation 3:20). Dear Friends in Christ, first, I thank and praise our Lord Jesus Christ who has knocked, knocks and keeps on knocking on the doors of our hearts to enter and share His love and mercy. I also thank God for all of you who have opened the door and keep holding it open, to Him! 2017 was my 10 th year as your pastor and partner in ministry; you have surely opened, and keep open, the door to us! We thank God for you, all that you are, all the ministry you do, your prayers and support, and your love for Jesus Christ! I also thank and praise to God for my wife, Cathy, and for the love and support she gives me and this congregation; for the excellent church staff He has given us, Russell, Tammy, Sue and Jamie and for our faithful, dedicated and caring officers, Keith, Dennis, Dave, Chris and Bernie, and all members of Council. A tremendous amount of ministry happened in What follows is a brief overview of that work and glimpses of what might happen in the future. It is a great time to come together and thank and praise God for all His blessings that led and guided our ministries and life together in Stewardship, which is all that we say and do after we say, I Believe, is a strength God has given us! In 2017, led by God, guided by His Word and practicing the spiritual gift of generosity, we grew in the giving of our time, talents and treasures so that we were able to fully fund our 2017 budget with a surplus that we can use in Simultaneously, we fully funded and completed major church building projects, involving but not limited to, our roofs, HVAC, kitchen update and more. Special thanks to our property team, Dan Zawierucha, Suzanne Nelson and Mike Schneider, as well as members of our Roof -Raising team! Of special note in 2017: Our 500 th anniversary of the Reformation activities dinner, planned and organized by APM Sue, assisted by Fellowship team, Debbie Brown, Kathi & Roger Frezza! As we look forward to 2018, remember that we are the church together. God has created you, Jesus taught, died and rose again for you and the Holy Spirit continues to lead and guide you and bring the church together. DO and BE what the church committed to do and be on the Day of Pentecost: They devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. As disciples today, we see this as twin pillars of the church: (1) WORSHIP regularly: Confess your sins and hear God s promise of forgiveness. Hear the Living Word that saves and guides your life. Eat and drink at Christ s Table, strengthened for sharing God s love. (2) PRAY daily for the council, committees and volunteers, the staff, the pastor and all of our ministries. For 2018, let s be the church together and grow our ministries! Help us find new ways to reach out with Gospel love to families, youth and young adults. Prayerfully consider how you might serve: join an existing ministry, restart a previous one or create something new. Your talents, gifts, skills and abilities are needed to build Christ s church and reach others for Christ. Let the light of God s love shine in and through you. And KEEP YOUR DOOR OPEN FOR JESUS! 8

9 From the COUNCIL PRESIDENT We have recently seen a lot of new things going on. New boilers, new kitchen, new lighting, with completely new roofing and other improvements. All these improvements have definitely helped to make the place of worship at Christ Lutheran Church safer, more efficient and pleasurable. Although these improvements were needed to be done to maintain the building we must remember that it is a building and that the church is made up of the people, the children of God, US. We have gone through significant expense to bring our building up to par and as mentioned needed. We have had a very successful Capital improvements drive and continue to bring in funds. One thing we have noticed is that the expected income from 2017 pledges was down a bit. Also, the pledges for 2018 are below the 2017 level. We must remember that to balance a budget that is to maintain and grow the many ministries of the Church, so we must have regular anticipated Generous Giving. That being said let us look forward to I am happy to state that we (council) with only minimal cuts have been able to come up with a balanced budget. Many thanks to the Lord, Council, staff and the efforts of Pastor Cave. We as (council) have heard some good ideas for the ministries to continue through the Church. I look forward to 2018 and the opportunities to do the work of the Lord. There are many opportunities to serve here at Christ Lutheran Church and I invite you all to participate and continue the work of the Lord. Yours in Christ Keith VanDeKerkhove 9

10 From the FINANCE COMMITTEE James Bruesehoff, Finance Committee Chairperson The Finance Committee works with the Treasurer in planning and presenting an annual budget of income and expenses, monitors the financial health of the congregation, assists the Stewardship Committee in planning and implementing the annual church-side Stewardship financial program, among other responsibilities. Our annual one-day budget retreat in December was only successful in getting a 2018 budget together for the church by the staff making sacrifices in their pay. In addition, we had to lower our benevolence and significantly increase our hope for Leap of Faith contributions. However, I do wish to thank the people in the congregation that sent in their pledge cards (pledges were down from last year), for without your pledges we cannot successfully create a budget and continue to provide all of the great services that we do here at Christ Lutheran Church. Also, thank you to the committees that continue to work with us in balancing our budget. I would also like to take the time to thank all of the people who are in connection with the Finance Committee. These people include the audit committee, financial secretary, offering counters, and memorial committee. For the current financial condition of Christ Lutheran Church please see the separate document relating to the 2018 Budget and 2017 Financial Statements. From the CLC FOUNDATION This year the foundation gave a $3, grant and $45, loan to Christ Lutheran Church, to help defray the cost of replacing the roof over the main church and office areas. The loan is to be repaid within the next three years. No donations were received this year. The beginning value of the fund for 2017 was $87, The current value as of November 30, 2017 is $49,

11 From the STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE To begin my report I would like to extend my gratitude and sincere thanks for the support the congregation has given to this church, and for all the support I have received from my fellow council members. Pledges collected in 2017 (as of 12/31/17) are 134 pledges totaling: $275, Pledges received for 2018 (as of 12/31/17) are 110 pledges totaling: $258, Stewardship Line Budget for 2017, $2, Actual spent as of 11/30/17 was $2, The budget for 2018 will remain unchanged from We had a Raise the Roof drive to raise money to repair/replace the church roof. As of Dec total pledges are $94, We will continue taking contributions throughout 2018 into 2019 ending in August. In October, during our annual pledge drive LCMC, Pastor Mark VanderTuig was the guest speaker for the two services on October 22 nd and also, led a stewardship workshop (Oct 21 st.) for the congregation, entitled Gratitude the Cornerstone of Generosity. Thirty-one people attended and a free will offering was taken. $ was raised and donated to LCMC Lutheran Disaster Relief, to help victims of last year s hurricanes. I look forward to serving this congregation in Have a Joyous and Blessed New Year. GODSPEED, Tony Badia Stewardship Chairperson 11

12 From the PROPERTY COMMITTEE Dan Zawierucha and Mike Schneider Property Committee Well, 2017 was a busy year. It started out with Suzanne Nelson finishing up several capital improvement projects. Some of these included a new Porch, roof work, cement work, and siding. The building looks great, I d like to thank Suzanne for all the time and work she put in during her time on property at CLC. After Suzanne had to leave the property Committee a few months early the projects kept chugging along. We were able to complete several lighting upgrades some of these included refurbishing about 40% of the fluorescent lights throughout the church complex using energy saving ballast and bulbs. Our goal is to have 100% of the fixtures done by the end of Other lighting upgrades included replacing all the lamps in the Sanctuary and Narthex with LED bulbs helping us reduce the energy used to light these areas by roughly 60%. Some other repairs and upgrades were also completed to help us keep our church a little safer. A few of these included having the south side front doors repaired so we no longer have to secure the doors with a cable lock. Replacing the wood door exiting to the south drive of the youth room with a new steel door that seals and latches properly. With all the other projects going on we also had a few unexpected repairs pop up. A few included broken A/C units, burned out air handler motors and malfunctioning electrical panels, with a few downed trees falling our way. Plus taking part in the committee for the long-awaited capital improvement for the roof replacement. I d like to thank my wife Patty for filling in the vacant property seat after Suzanne had to step aside. She was able to keep the projects scheduled and moving along smoothly. So that s it for the year-end property report Figure 1 Harry Stutzky and Andy Jablonski building the kitchen shelving. Figure 2 Far-side of kitchen January

13 Figure 3 New sinks January 2017 Completed Figure 6 June CLC Fountain Figure 4 New position of freezer and fridge, Jan 2017 Figure7 New corner landscaped Figure 5 Front corner Spring 2017 Figure 8 Completed Roof Nov

14 From the EVANGELISM COMMITTEE Submitted by: Joe Militello & Gene Pierzchalski The Evangelism Committee thanks all of the many volunteers who have followed in Jesus Christ s footsteps to give so freely of their time, talents and treasures to help with CLC outreach activities. We also thank our generous congregation for their prayers for our church members, visitors their families, and for the activities of our church. Council -In September, Gene Pierzchalski was welcomed as Co-Chairman of our Committee. Our chairperson, Carol Blohm had to step down earlier in the year due to health concerns. We thank her for her leadership. In October, Carol returned to the meetings and helps with the Evangelism ministries. Joe Militello is also a Co-Chairman until September On April 30, delivery of baked goods to our Police and Firefighters, to show our appreciation of them was successfully carried out. Thank you to Kathi Freeza for assisting in this ministry of love. In March and November, Joan Prebee sends out Miss You Cards to inactive members, they contain a survey card and special service information. They are sent to try and have continued communication with people and families that have pulled away from the church and to help reconnect them to our church family. In May the USPS canned good drive brought us an abundance of canned goods. See the Food Pantry report for more information. S.O.S. Supplies our Students - In August we requested donations for school supplies for students in our area that needed help meeting the supply requirements for the next school year. You responded wonderfully with your donations so that we could donate these supplies to Green Acres Elementary School, Beer Middle School, and Carter Middle School in the Warren area. Thank you to everyone who generously donated to this outreach ministry to help our students excel!! November s Thanksgiving food boxes - On the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, volunteers sorted and packed boxes for 57 families with the non-perishable food items donated by our church members. Along with this food, the families received grocery certificates to help purchase meat and fresh food items their family preferred. Each family also received a warm hand-made blanket donated by Trudy Oser, and a pretty handdecorated towel donated by an anonymous church member. All the recipients were truly grateful for all they received, and shared well wishes and hugs. Thanks to all church members who donated food items, money, and /or their time to volunteer for this outreach! Thanks to your generosity, we were able to reach out to 124 neighbors in these 57 families! 14

15 Crop Hunger Walk -Thank you to Allan Mullins for his leadership in this ministry and all who shared in this event. CLC had a great turn out and collected around $ May all who gave, walked and benefited from the CROPwalk be blessed. New Member Tea- In April and September. Seven new people were received into membership. Our committee welcomed them with small welcome gifts, the event was hosted by Fellowship. The Samaritan s Purse Christmas boxes project - After our members lovingly packed shoeboxes with toys, clothes, and other goodies, 66 shoe boxes were delivered to the local collection center. The shoe boxes will be delivered to children in desperate situations around the world, and along with them the children will receive a Gospel booklet written in their own language, with follow-up Bible Study programs available. What better gifts can we offer them than the hope, peace, and joy that only Jesus can give! In January we delivered, 60 items. Thank you to all who filled our Mitten Tree with your help we are keeping young children in the Warren Consolidated Schools warmer this winter season. These will be added to the collections from Mott High School and the Warren Educator's Chapter of Alpha Delta Kappa, Alpha Phi. This ministry is chaired by Anna Marie Lawrence Our local benevolence donations totaled $2020 in The following charities were selected to receive donations: Blessings in a Back Pack, Care of S. E. Michigan, the Good Shepherd Coalition, PAL Warren Police Athletic League, Macomb Charitable Fund, Macomb Interfaith Caregivers, Macomb Literary Partners, Macomb Warming Center, Metropolitan Christian Council, Salvation Army Matts, and Turning Point Shelter. We are thankful that our budget allowed us to make these contributions. Creative Card Ministry, led by Betty Stutzky and helped by Judy Krueger. In 2017 this ministry created 228 cards. The cards are sent to homebound members, with get well wishes, holiday and birthday wishes, Miss You as well as bereavement. If you received one of these cards you can see how creative and all the love that goes into each one. If you would like to help and your share talents in this ministry, contact Betty They meet at her home every second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Prayer Group meets each Monday throughout the year at 9:30 a.m. We have 7 members of our congregation who faithfully pray for members, family, friends and nation. It gives the group joy to hear about answered prayers and so they can also thank God for what He has done. Please consider joining us. Greeters - They meet and greet people at the doors prior to worship services. We thank June Foster, Bob Runde, Esther and Terry Straka, Betty Stutzky. We added new smiling faces to the team: Kathy Frezza, Dottie Gillette, Joe Militello and Michelle Reich. Carol Blohm, Glenn and Suzanne Sopfe stepped down from this ministry, thank you for making everyone fill welcome each Sunday morning! 15

16 Member Card Care Ministry, led by Barb Mullins since Barb took over for Evelyn Brown, who volunteered for this ministry when it began back in Over 100 cards are sent out throughout the year to members for health concerns, baptisms, death, and for very special occasions. Homebound members are remembered on their birthday and holidays. Most cards are made by the Creative Card Ministry. Barb Mullins stepped down this fall and has passed this ministry to Ranice Brault. Cookie Jar Ministry- Two cookie jar workdays were scheduled to assemble jars for first time visitors. Twelve jars were given out this year. The visitors are pleasantly surprised to receive the jar. Pins and Needles- This ministry is made up of creative, dedicated and hard-working people. Samples of some of their work can be seen in the hallway. If you can even tie a knot, you will be welcomed into the group. There is something for everyone to do. In 2017, One hundred lap quilts were sent out into the community to seniors and patients. As of December, the ladies were working on fifty more to be sent to the veterans. Kroger Points If you shop at Kroger s, with your Kroger card select CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH WARREN FOOD PANTRY for the rewards program, you can access your account online to sign-up or call the phone number on the back of your card, let them know you do not have an account and they will be able to help you. The Kroger points turn into dollars for the CLC Daily Bread Food Pantry, quarterly. With the Lord s help, we will continue to serve Him by serving His people in Evangelize where you are! Evangelizing can be doing by example just as telling your story about Jesus Christ in your life. Do you pray in public, when eating at a restaurant? Do you offer to pray for your relative or coworker in need? Do you keep shoveling the walk even past your property line? Do you invite your friends or coworker to church? Do you handout a Bible or two in the year to a family in the waiting room when visiting someone in the hospital? Do you share your flowers from the garden with someone in need of cheer with a message that God is near? Did you talk to God today? He has something to say! Where is your mission field? 16

17 from the CLC DAILY FOOD PANTRY EVANGELISM COMMITTEE Brothers and sisters in Christ: In 2017, there was a great increase of visitors to the Daily Bread Food Pantry. There were a total of two hundred thirtyfour individuals through one hundred and three households who came for assistance. Some forty percent visited three times or less and fifty-nine percent came nearly on a regular basis. Folks had learned about the pantry through word of mouth, the church sign/website, Macomb Daily, Warren Weekly, Karmanos, Salvation Army, calls to 211 for assistance, and pantrynet.org. The largest quantity of households that visited during a distribution took place in March with twenty-seven households/sixty-four individuals being served. Some common factors of visitors seeking help struggle with disability, unemployment, very high medical bills, and getting by with the monthly social security amount in today s world. The outpouring support from caring, compassionate staff and members made an amazing difference once again! Special thanks to EVERYONE who shared faith in one way or another. Your generosity spoke in volumes including -the monetary donations, laundry detergents, paper towels, rolls of toilet paper, dishwashing soaps and the many non-perishable canned/ boxed items! Christ Lutheran also has numerous pantry volunteers who have contributed a great deal of time and commitment every month. Everyone s efforts helped make the distribution go smoothly each time. In fact, prior to every distribution, volunteers gathered for a prayer. This would help focus on God, the gift of salvation, and bring wisdom, courage to one share s faith while assisting persons of many struggles. During 2017, there were fresh vegetables for a couple of months through the church garden, as special kudos to everyone who were diligent and committed towards making this possible. The qualified visitors were able to select non-perishable items from the food pantry, receive cleaning supplies, paper products, gift cards and a box filled with foods set up in advance. 17

18 Every month, visitors also had the opportunity to be included on a list of prayer requests, submitted to Pastor Cave and at times included with the Monday Prayer group. Another important feature is monitoring the budget. There were about couple hundred dollars more at the end of 2017 than its beginning. When shopping was needed for the pantry, the decision to purchase items included comparison of prices at all times. The purchasing of gift cards from OakRidge Market of Fraser, MI occurred monthly. Its amazing owner generously donated five percent of the requested gift card amount every time. The pantry was also very blessed with wonderful monetary donations from the GBU Saxonia District 821 Rheingold Gemisschter Choir. The USPS, Stamp Out Hunger assisted greatly, as nonperishable items were collected to help stretch the finances. There were seven letter mail carriers who dropped off donations; five vehicles were filled with great abundance. Volunteers including youth and adults of all ages helped make this a successful outstanding event once again by labeling, sorting, placing items in boxes or on pantry shelves. Also, the Kroger Community Rewards also made a difference as sixty-four persons signed up to support the pantry. In just one quarter, there was slightly above two-hundred dollars that went towards this. The Evangelism and Pantry teams would like to thank everyone for your continued support, dedication, your prayers, sharing of faith and passion through this ministry! We are truly grateful for all of the ways that God has blessed us - so that we may share His ongoing unconditional love and grace in Macomb County. From the PAIRS AND SPARES We usually meet once a month for food, fun, and fellowship. We travel to different restaurants in the tri-county area, attend local events, we ve held an ice cream social and share in plenty of holiday fun. We also have a yearly jaunt to Frankenmuth for lunch and theater. If you are 50+ years old or older, you are most welcome to join us. We would love to have you. Check the bulletin board for our latest exploration of fun. It hangs outside the Gathering Room, just before the exit doors in the hallway, there you will be able to sign-up for the newest adventure of fun. This group is led by Jacqueline Nelson. 18

19 From the FELLOWSHIP & COMMUNICATION COMMITTEE Debbie Brown & Kathleen Freeza We have been bringing in healthy food for Coffee Hour and it has been going over really well. We are looking for more people to bring in goodies, especially for the 11:00 a.m. service. There is a sign-up sheet in the Gathering room and we will also have it put on the blue sheet in the bulletin, (You can always do a write it in on the blue). The coffee will already be set up for you. Also, we could use more people to help with the clean-up after the 11:00 a.m. service, approximately 12:30 1:30 p.m. We would like to thank those who have helped us set up the coffee, provided the goodies, and cleaned up after Coffee Hour. It is much appreciated! We are going to be having a couple of potlucks in 2018, new member teas, and the church picnic. Also, we will be offering some Coffee Hour brunches, ethnic dinners and a cookie exchange at Christmas. We will continue to bring in a cake to celebrate birthdays monthly and continue to decorate the gathering room. From the YOUTH AND FAMILY Sue Bochenek, APM I always enjoy new years and new beginnings. I can t thank enough the members of the Parish Ed. Committee (Randy Byrne, Jenni Schneider, Michele Neubauer and Jamie Centner) for all of their dedication and hard work. They help to keep the activities and programs of the youth going strong. Also special and heartwarming thanks to our Sunday School Teachers (Michele Neubauer, Debbie Dzielski and Kay Trombat) who bring Christ alive to the youth. It was with sadness that we said Farewell to a long-time Sunday School teacher, Shelley Gallis, who gave of her time and talent to the youth of CLC for many, many years. Special thanks also goes out to Randy Byrne and Jamie Centner who teach Catechism each week. This past year was a struggle with losing our Youth Director and Youth Music Director. I have stepped back in to lead the high school youth group and they have been enjoying monthly activities. The new name for the high school group is God Squad based on 1 Peter 2:9 ( you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.) We look forward to many more fun events and activities in the new year. The Middle School Group Disciples for Christ will be enjoying their annual trip to Traverse City in March to attend the Quake Event. This three-day event is packed with Christian bands, motivating speakers, worship and connecting with other youth from various churches. This event is great for the youth as it fires them up for their faith and witness. This year s theme is Overcome based on John 16:33 (I have told 19

20 you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but take heart! I have overcome the world. A new Security Team (led by Parish Education) has formed to enhance the safety and security risks here at Christ Lutheran. This will not only include protection against any violence, but procedures in case of inclement weather conditions and medical emergencies. As improvements are made, you will be notified through the monthly Newsletter and Sunday bulletin. In addition to activities for the youth, there are also activities for adults. This year we brought back the Alpha Program. This was a 13 week course in which a group of adults studied the basics of the Christian faith. Special thanks to Kathi Frezza and Debbie Brown for planning and providing wonderful meals each week. Looking ahead to this year, there is a possibility of doing a church-wide Bible study. Watch the monthly Newsletter or Sunday Bulletins for further information. Pastor Cave also leads wonderful studies for the Men on the first Saturday of each month at 8:30 a.m. Breakfast is included. He leads a Bible study on Wednesday mornings at 10 am. If your New Year s Resolution is to study the Bible more, then this study is for you! Don t forget to also check out the Sunday morning DVD Bible study that Pastor also leads. We will again attempt to attend a Detroit Tiger s game in late August or early September. For those that have attended the Home Plate event in the past, this year s date is set for May 12. This year s program will include an autographed baseball giveaway, souvenirs and most importantly, the sharing of salvation in Jesus Christ through the personal testimonies of several professional athletes. Cost for this program includes a ticket to the Tiger s game which follows the program. If you are interested in attending or want more information about this event, please see me. Our GriefShare program continues. Many grieving people have found support and help through this program. A new program will be starting on Tuesday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m. This group is open to all members, visitors and the community. For those that have been through the GriefShare program, a Grief Drop-In group continues to meet on the 1 st and 3 rd Thursdays of each month beginning at 11:00 am. This is a very informal group that meet to continue to support each other in their grief journey. As we look forward to 2018, may we live by one of my favorite Bible passages from Matthew 6:25: Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?.. Therefore do not be anxious.your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. 20

21 From The PARISH EDUCATION COMMITTEE Randy A. Byrne and Jenni Schneider 2017 was a busy year for the Education Committee this year at Christ Lutheran Church. We have actively been looking for someone to fill the positions of Youth Director and Youth Music Leader due to the resignations of James Minch and Stephanie Bante. In the meantime, Sue Bochenek has been filling those positions. We will continue to actively search into 2018 to bring someone in to fill those positions. As always, the Education Committee and our Youth hold activities throughout the year as we are asked to participate in that aren t planned at the beginning of the year. We have also held many activities for our youth that have helped them to get know each other and share in their journey of learning and strengthening their faith together. We held our annual Day Camp in April which was titled Life Song. There was a musical / drama performance completed on the last day of camp. We are planning on another Day Camp during the first week of April. Watch for details. In May we confirmed 7 youth into membership at Christ Lutheran, and this may will be confirming 7 other youth. Confirmation this year will be held on Sunday, May 6, during the 11 a.m. service. VBS was held in June. This year we had it at night from 6-8 p.m. The theme was Mighty Fortress with plenty of signing, Bible stories and games. We had a good turn out and all in attendance had fun. Many of our older youth volunteered and were a great help. In July some of our Confirmation Youth attended Camp Lutherwald with Sue as chaperone. This is the highlight of the summer for most of the youth. A fun filled week was had by all as they strengthened and learned more about their faith. In September we started up Catechism and Sunday School with our Annual Rally Day Picnic. We held it at the front of the church and had great food, fellowship, and games. Sunday school attendance has been averaging only 2-6 youth depending on the Sunday. We currently have 15 Catechism students from 5-8 th grade attending on Thursday night. An average of 8-10 High School youth also meet weekly on Thursday night with Sue. In October we held Trunk or Treat for the Warren community. We had very good turn out with between kids attending. We are looking forward to hosting another Trunk or Treat this October. We are always looking for more people to 21

22 open their trunks and pass out candy. If you are interested contact either myself or Jenni Schneider. In November six of our 8 th graders attended Camp Cavell which is organized and run by Hope Lutheran Church. This was our second time in participating in this great weekend. The theme for the weekend Questions and Answers and throughout the weekend the youth through Bible study and questions were able to answer how their relationship with Christ impacts their life. The youth learned and strengthened their faith with other 8 th graders from the area through worship, fellowship, and service. In December we ended the year with our Annual Youth Christmas Program. The youth also went to the American House for our annual singing of Christmas songs and stories with their residents. We also plan to visit the American House again in March to play board games with the residents. We feel that service is an important part of our Confirmation program. The Education Committee would like to thank all the teachers, volunteers, parents, and members of Christ Lutheran Church that have supported us throughout the year. We continue to ask for your support and prayers, so we can continue to help the youth grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ. From the CHURCH OFFICE / VOLUNTEERS Tammy Lozen, CLC Office Administrator Thank you CLC office volunteers for your help Monday Friday, in the church office and other ministries of the church. Your willingness to use your gifts and abilities has strengthened the mission and ministry of CLC. Each year you are examples of Christ, giving with an open heart. Well done, good and faithful servant. 22

23 A special thank you to: Judy Krueger- Barb Mullins - Joan Prebee- Jeri Tompkins collates, files, and tends to our church s archives. Also collates the church bulletin with a team of others. Sends care cards out to our members, does the running list on the blue inserts and takes many of our church pictures. She also helps in other ministries in the church; Such as Lead Counter part of the Stewardship Committee, she is on the Decorating Committee, under the Worship Committee. (For 2018 care cards will be done by Ranice Brault. Thank you, Ranice for stepping forward with this ministry.) tends to the homebound ministry with her co-partner, Marilyn Perron, as well as other tasks in the office. She also volunteers her time in other ministries (Altar Flower delivery, Mailing Group, Miss You Ministry, and Data entry for Stewardship. Worship attendance data entry though out the year faithfully and helps in the office also serving under the Finance / Stewardship Committee as a counter. Thank you to the Counters for every week you volunteer, (all 52)! Thank you to the collators and proofreaders. Thank you to all who make up the mailing group. A special welcome to the new volunteers that joined the list of many good hearts. You are all a blessing to me, the church office, to CLC and a servant of God. October 31, 2017, marked the 500th anniversary of the start of the Protestant Reformation, when Martin Luther posted his 95 Theses on a church door in Germany. The 500 th Anniversary of the Reformation worship service was held on October 29,

24 From the WORSHIP COMMITTEE Tammy Monteleone & Lee and Nancy O Bryan, Worship Committee It was a busy year for the Worship Committee and we look forward to the same in It is the responsibility of this committee to work together to provide a joyful and meaningful worship period on Sunday mornings and during special services. We are very grateful to have each of you as a part of our Church family. This year, the committee has continued to focus on factors that would enhance the worship experience. Music continues to be integral to our worship offering meditation, vocal, and instrumental praise. We continue to praise and worship God through music with traditional music at the 9:00 a.m. service and contemporary music at the 11:00 a.m. service. We enjoy the Genesis Praise Band led by Russell Hastings, the CLC Praise Band led by Lawaun Modrich, and the Ignite youth team when they lead the 11:00am services. The Adult Choir and the Hand Bell Choir are led by Russell Hastings who continues to do a wonderful job. Each of these groups is always looking for new members. No prior musical experience is necessary. The many talents of all of the groups are appreciated. Feel free to contact Russell or any member of the adult groups if you are interested in joining one of their groups. The youth and young adults have been encouraged to take part in our services on many occasions. Stephanie Bante was hired and served as Youth Music Director. The youth have been leading services monthly. The Ignite praise team or the Singers 4Christ often join the youth when leading services. We have also continued to integrate our youth choirs Singers 4 Christ and Ignite into other services. We continue to involve the youth in worship in areas such as the youth services and the children s messages. It s a pleasure to see kids of all ages praising God through their skits and music! We are very thankful for the dedication of the Worship Team leaders who make it possible for all the details for worshiping come together and make worship at Christ Lutheran run so much more smoothly. JoAnn Parobek Terry Straka Joan Prebee Dave Parobek Altar Guild Head usher Schedules the flower and the flower deliveries Coordinator for screen data entry and operations. The Lord has greatly blessed our church with many people who are willing to contribute their time and talents! Many people work behind the scenes to make Sunday morning worship services and special services possible. We wish to thank the many volunteers who actively participate in the worship services and those who provide assistance behind the scenes. These are the Communion servers, readers, worship assistants, ushers, altar guild, banner team, flower delivery team, cleaning of the linens, screen data enterers and screen operators. These volunteers help make worshiping at Christ Lutheran a rewarding experience for everyone. 24

25 We are always in need of more volunteers and, as you can see, there are many jobs to be filled. Each volunteer we add to the teams means that one more follower of Christ is discovering the thrill and joy of serving Him. It is to God s glory when He works through us to accomplish His will for Christ Lutheran. If interested in volunteering, please contact us so we can inform you of all of the different opportunities you can serve, as well as to help you feel comfortable with whatever opportunity you choose to serve in. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.1 Corinthians 12:4-6 We would like to thank our Business Director, Jamie Centner, and our Office Administrator, Tammy Lozen, for their efficiency, kindness and gentle reminders. You make our jobs a whole lot easier! A special thank you goes to Sue Bochenek for always being available to guide us and for going above and beyond in helping in all ways possible! She also takes on organizing various activities and outings, such as the ventures to Comerica Park to see the Tigers play, that so many of us enjoy. We are forever grateful for Pastor Cave s strong faithful leadership, continued guidance, and inspirational sermons. We are so blessed to have him as our Pastor! We continue to thank God for all of you and pray that He continues to guide us and grant us wisdom and grace as we move forward into the coming church year. Remember, the church works best when we see ourselves as participants, not as spectators! God s Peace! Midweek Lenten services, Good Friday services and the Easter Sunday service always have something new for us to continue to grow in faith and celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Melissa Bruesehoff leading youth in hand-bell music during the Advent season. Youth pictured: (back row) Anthony Badia Samantha and Zak Byrne, (Front row) Luke Centner Payton Ramsey and Emily Centner, and Logan Larkey reader. The church was beautifully decorated again for Christmas. Thank you to all who helped. Everyone seemed to enjoy the fellowship, as well as beautifying the church for the birth of Christ. Thank you to everyone who helped with undecorating as well. 25

26 Statistics BAPTIZED CONFIRMED AVERAGE SUNDAY MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP ATTENDANCE Wednesday Services included Amended 530 Amended 232 Wednesday Services included Wednesday Services included Wednesday Services included includes special Summer Worship includes children and Special Summer Worship includes children and Special Summer Worship

27 Statistics ATTENDANCE In 2017 Attendance Worship Services Avg. Mid-Week Lenten Services (5) 339 Total Easter Total Thanksgiving Eve 50 Total Children s Program 41 Avg. (one cancelled due to snow) 227 total both services Mid-Week Advent Services (3) Christmas Eve (two services) 55 Total Christmas Day (Sunday one service only) na na Is not the cup of blessing which we bless a sharing in the blood of Christ? Is not the bread which we break a sharing in the body of Christ? Since there is one bread, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one bread. 1 Corinthians 1: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. John 4:23-24 He said in a loud voice, Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water. Revelation 14:7 27

28 Statistics 2017 REMOVED FROM OUR ROLE # NAME C= Confirmed B= baptized only REMOVED FROM OUR ROLE # NAME 1 Michele c 15 Grayson Middler b Bochenek 2 Evan Boggs b 16 Jenna Mueller b 3 Shelby Boggs b 17 Ava Nichols b 4 Ronna Cisnero c 18 Chelsea Olarin b 5 Elizabeth Mc c 19 Herm Pett c Clellan 6 Frances b 20 Phyllis Pett c Gutkowski 7 Chris Hille c 21 Shannon c Roman 8 Samantha Lundy c 22 Zachery Simms b 9 Mary Legg c 23 Matthew Simms c 10 Martha Leiphart c 24 John Simms b 11 Sommerlee Lester b 25 Mark Stephens c 12 Melissa Middler c 26 Madison b Stewart 13 Grant Middler b 27 Breanna b Steward 14 Madison Middler b 28 Benjamin Wetzel b Those listed above were removed from the active role because they have not attended since 2015, did not register for Catechism, transferred to another church or have requested to be removed, all in accordance to our CLC constitution. Approved by 2017 Council, Dec. 19, 2017 "What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying? Matthew 18:12 28

29 Statistics 2017 BAPTISMS 2017 BAPTISMS ADDED TO THE ROLE NAME *[A] = Adult DATE OF BIRTH DATE OF BAPTISM 1. Bogal, Gavin Joseph Brown, Jameson Masten 3. Gastelewicz, Ellory Jean 4. Porchia, Remo George 5. VanDeKerkhove, Lillian Elizabeth 6. VanDeKerkhove, Zaya Grace We are happy and excited to baptize all God s children. As soon as you know when you would like to be baptized or your child baptized, please call the church office to confirm the date. and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, Peter 3: MEMBER MARRIAGES DATES 1. Jennifer Girvin and Michael Schneider April 7, Nawal Qutta and Leonard Janush November 25, 2017 Wedding at CLC bring great joy! If you are inbterested in holding your wedding here at CLC, contact the church office to reserve your wedding date. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity." Colossians 3:14 For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her." Ephesians 5:25 29

30 Statistics 2017 BURIALS 2017 NAME BIRTH DATE DEATH DATE BURIALS ɫ = 8 CONFIRMATED MEMBERS 1. ɫ Bartlett, William R 12/08/1929 5/5/ Carlson, Carolyn 06/18/1947 8/24/ ɫ Cawood, Robert 07/03/1931 6/19/ ɫ Cormany, Richard 10/08/ /03/ ɫ Doetsch, Thomas 07/18/42 07/11/ Dumka, Marvin 02/28/42 03/05/2017 Frank 7. ɫ Foote, Lenore 05/30/ /23/ Gardner, Sherry 08/04/ /09/ Hudson, Darlene 01/13/36 01/01/2017 Virginia 10. ɫ Krueger, Robert 08/28/36 04/05/ Mehlhaff, 07/03/ /03/2017 Douglas Kent 12. Nurse, Roy 12/04/ /02/2017 Norman Rev. 13. ɫ Watson, William 08/21/ /06/2017 E. 14. ɫ Weber, Helga 12/17/ /21/2017 We give thanks to God for the promise of life everlasting in Christ our Lord, a promise that fills us with hope and comfort as we remember now those saints who died during Statistics 2017 CONFIRMED 2017 CONFIRMANDS If you Love me, you will keep my Commandments John 14:15 1. Bruesehoff, David Lowell 5. Mirisciotti, James Homero 2. Girvin, Jason 6. Ramsey, Logan Ray 3. Hauck, Sarah Kathleen 7. Smith, Rita Lynn 4. Koschke, Ryan Elsworth After 3 years of studying, attending the CLC Catechism program, we welcome the confirmands to membership. Catechism classes begin in the 5 th grade. 30

31 Statistics 2017 ASSOCIATE MEMBER 2017 CURRENT ASSOCIATE MEMBERS 1. Roy Castle 5. Eugene Sanders 2. Rose Castle 6. Amy Trombat 3. Ardis Dubro 7. Frank Naugo 4. John Fox 8. Sandy Naugo 5. Joyce Fox If you currently belong to another church and attend Christ Lutheran seasonally contact the church ofice for more information about becoming an Associate member. Statistics 2017 NEW MEMBER 2017 NEW MEMBERS C = Confirmated Member 1. Burghardt, Phyllis c 5. Rehn, Henry c 2. Frezza, Roger c 6. Schneider, Michael c 3. Lusk, Lynn c 7. Wieczorek, Nancy c 4. Matthews, Isabel c If you are interested in becoming a members of CLC, by affirmation or transfer, contact the church office to make an appointment to meet with the pastor. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. 22 In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Ephesians 2: STAFF Pastor Pastor Emeritus Assistant Pastoral Ministry Business Administrator Office Administrator Organist & Genesis Praise Leader Rev. Daniel Cave Rev. Donald H. Niehaus Sue Bochenek Jamie Centner Tammy Lozen Russell Hastings Youth Choir Singers 4 Christ & Ignite Youth Music Director Youth Leader Stephanie Bante Hire date: February 1, Resigned: August 19, 2017 James Minch Hire date: October 23, 2016 Resigned: March 12,

32 CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH COUNCIL PRESIDENT Keith VanDeKerkhove VICE-PRESIDENT Dennis Krueger TREASURER Chris Wade SECRETARY David Dietz EVANGELISM Joe Militello & Gene Pierzchalski FELLOWSHIP/ COMMUNICATION Debbie Brown & Kathi Frezza FINANCE James Bruesehoff PARISH EDUCATION Randy Byrne & Jennifer Schwartz Current Council PROPERTY Dan Zawierucha & Michael Schwartz STEWARDSHIP Tony Badia WORSHIP Lee O Bryan & Tammy Monteleone PASTOR Rev. Daniel Cave He must become greater; I must become less. John 3:30 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:4 C C The officers shall be elected by written ballot and shall serve for two (2) years or until their successors are elected. No officer shall hold more than one office at a time. No elected officer shall be eligible to serve more than three (3) consecutive terms in the same office. Bi-Annual meetings: January/Budget September/Elections A special thank you to our volunteers for their work in preparing this Annual Report. We also thank each member and attendee for gifts of time, talent, energy, and finances given to the ministry of Christ Lutheran Church! Your continuing prayers and participation are crucial to reaching the city of Warren, the region of Macomb County, and our world in connecting Jesus Christ to our community. Pictures in 2017 Annual Report Submitted by Melissa Bruesehoff, Tammy Lozen, CLC Friends on Facebook, Barb Mullins and Andy Jablonski, Tammy Monteleone and Lee O Bryan. Thank you to all! CLC church office 32

33 33

34 PRAYING MANTIS at the doors of CLC Christ Lutheran Church, Warren LCMC