260 th Annual Meeting of the

Transcription

1 260 th Annual Meeting of the Norfield Congregational Church United Church of Christ February 4, 2018 Norfield Congregational Church 64 Norfield Road Weston, CT Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson, Senior Minister

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Agenda... 3 Room Assignments for Board Meetings... 4 Minutes of the 259th Annual Meeting... 5 Annual Reports: Senior Minister... 7 Associate Minister for Children, Youth and Families... 9 Moderator Church Clerk Christian Education, Board of Church Administrator Music, Board of Director of Music & Worship Arts Deacons, Board of Fellowship, Board of Outreach, Board of Pastoral Relations Shepherd s Program Trustees, Board of Memorial Garden Report Human Resources Report Nominating Committee Treasurer s Report The Covenant of Norfield Congregational Church

3 AGENDA 260 th Annual Meeting of the NORFIELD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH February 4, Call to Order Rob Sanders, Council Moderator 2. Membership and Quorum Shivanthi Edwards, Church Clerk 3. Opening Prayer Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson, Senior Minister 4. Reading of the Norfield Church Covenant (on back page) 5. Election of Meeting Moderator Rob Sanders 6. Approval of 2017 Annual Meeting Minutes Meeting Moderator 7. Treasurer s Report and Approval of 2018 Budget Kurt Schreder 8. Nominating Committee Report Gai Bos 9. New Business Search Committee Update David Lummis 10. A Message from the 2018 Moderator 11. Closing Prayer Rev. Diane Stevenson, Transitional Associate Minister 12. Adjournment Meeting Moderator Following the meeting, all are invited to pick up refreshments in the Parish Hall before moving on to the Board & Committee break-out meetings (see next page). 3

4 NORFIELD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 260th ANNUAL MEETING Room Assignments for Board Meetings February 4th, Christian Education, Board of... CE Building, Norfield Room 2. Music, Board of... Greene Room 3. Deacons, Board of... Mike Tine Youth Room 4. Fellowship, Board of... Parish Hall 5. Outreach, Board of... Banks Room 6. Trustees, Board of... Conference Room 7. Human Resources, Board of... Office of Senior Minister Please keep meetings brief and kindly follow the format below: Board Meeting Agenda: 1. Opening Prayer 2. Election of Board Officers 3. Setting a date for the next meeting 4. Send Chairperson Contact Information to Teri Gaberman at tgaberman@norfield.org 5. Closing Remarks 4

5 MINUTES OF THE 259th ANNUAL MEETING 5 February 2017 Call to Order The 259th Annual Meeting of Norfield Congregational Church was called to order by Moderator, Rob Sanders. The 2017 Annual Report was distributed to the Congregation. The Report of the Church Clerk: Membership and Quorum The records and statistics of the Norfield Congregational Church Society and the minutes of the Norfield Congregational Church Council Meetings and Special Meetings have been kept in order for the year. We had more than 95 attendees. Statistics are as follows: 474 Total Membership; Quorum= 95 Opening Prayer The 259th Annual Meeting Opening Prayer was led by Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson, Senior Minister. Reading of the Norfield Church Covenant The Congregation joined in the reading of the Norfield Church Covenant: We promise to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and we take as our rule of life the words: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. We take this Church to be our Church, and ever mindful of our fellow members, we promise to walk with them in faithfulness and Christian love. We promise that so far as possible we will attend the services of this Church, share in its mission, and endeavor to make it a fruitful body of Christians. Election of Meeting Moderator A motion was made to appoint Chris Edwards as Meeting Moderator. The motion was made, seconded and approved unanimously. Approval of 2016 Annual Meeting Minutes Don Gary called for a motion to approve the 2016 Annual Meeting Minutes after giving the Congregation an opportunity to review the document. The motion was made, seconded and approved unanimously. 5

6 Treasurer s Report Herb Cotter presented the state of the church s finances and request approval of the 2017 budget. Andrew Cummings was thanked for his dedication and support over the past year. The report is included in the Annual Report. Congregation received the report and the motion was made to approve the Annual Operating Budget as presented on page 39, including the $15,000 pledge gap. The motion was made, seconded and approved unanimously. Nominating Committee Report Gai Bos, chair of the Nominating Committee, gave a report of the committee's work. She announced that 15 members have been nominated to fill open positions on the boards and committees. The motion was made to approve the slate as presented in the printed slate, seconded and approved unanimously. New Business Laura Casellas mentioned that they would be forming a new Stewardship Leadership team which would work year round to recruit people in terms of time and talent to how that can support the church. Message from Moderator We owe gratitude to Herb Cotter who has been a member for 41 years and has served as Treasurer for so many. In these times, we need to hold our core principles close to us and bring the energy and focus of the church to bring faith, hope and charity to the world. Closing Prayer Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers, Associate Minister, delivered the Closing Prayer to the Congregation. Adjournment A motion was made to adjourn the 259th Annual Meeting of Norfield Congregational Church. The motion was made, seconded and approved unanimously. The 259th Annual Meeting of Norfield Congregational Church was adjourned at 11:35am. Respectfully Submitted, Kerri Meredith 6

7 SENIOR MINISTER 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Then Jesus said to his Disciples, Go into the world. Go everywhere and announce the Message of God s good news to one and all. (Mark 16: 16 MSG) I never want it to go without my saying how privileged I am to serve as Norfield's 35 th Senior Minister at this time in Norfield s long and rich history was an exciting year for our congregation in so many ways, and the reports contained within this document attest to God's many blessings on our ministries. I am Godly proud to report, that Norfield continues to be a spiritually healthy, diverse and generously engaged congregation and that we continue to expand and deepen our commitment to the divine mission entrusted to this community of faith centuries ago. I want to begin with a tribute to Norfield s (now former), Minister for Children, Youth and Families, my sister, friend, colleague, and partner in ministry, the Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers. In October 2017, Rev. Kelly was called to be the Senior Minister of the Scarsdale Congregational Church, UCC, in New York. Norfield held a celebration of her ministry on January 14, 2018, and what an amazing celebration it was. I have never witnessed a farewell to ministry like the one we gave for Kelly, Jon, Sammy and Simon on that Sunday. It was a service to remember. A bittersweet remembrance, as we sadly, but with gratitude, say farewell to Kelly, but know how fortunate Scarsdale is to have Rev. Kelly assume the spiritual leadership of that congregation. Norfield will partner with Kelly in prayer and deed, as she begins her ministry in Scarsdale. Kelly and I are a mutual admiration society of two, and I (and I know Norfield) will miss her presence. God speed Kelly, and thank you for your ministry with us. I can report that Norfield, our congregation and community of faith is financially strong and we owe much of that to the stewardship of our resources by the Board of Trustees and our dedicated and diligent Stewardship Campaign leaders, Laura Casellas and Al Bartosic. Thank you for making this year s campaign a success. And thank you to every Norfielder for believing in our ministry and for your pledge this year. I cannot conclude this report without saying a special thank you to Norfield s incredible staff, beginning with our Director of Music & Worship Arts, Dr. David Connell. David adds a dimension to Norfield that simply cannot be matched anywhere, and the whole tenor of Norfield s music has been uplifted by his leadership and direction. We are so blessed to have Penny Anderson as Norfield's Christian Education Director. Penny brings a wealth of experience (don t translate that as old ) to everything she does. And our new families are directly tied to her ministry. Our Church Administrator, Andrew Cumming has and continues to make a tremendous difference in keeping Norfield administratively, physically and fiscally strong and accountable. Andrew is my friend and brother from our Navy years together and I can t say enough about how proud and glad I am to have him here at Norfield. We welcomed Teri Gaberman last year, as the new face and voice of 7

8 Norfield and Teri has made a tremendous difference for us in so many ways. Norfield is blessed to have Teri as our new Administrative Assistant. As Norfield moves into search mode for a Youth Minister and an Associate Minister, we are blessed to have the Transitional Ministry of Rev. Diane Stevenson. Rev. Diane is a long-time Norfielder and has seamlessly stepped into the Associate Minister s role during our search. We are also blessed to have Matilda Story (Tilly) as our Interim Youth Director. Tilly is a Norfield Confirmed member and a Norfield Intern, whom we are blessed to have serve us during this interim period. Basil Popolopolous is an intern whom we are also blessed to have with us during this transition. I cannot leave out Erley Pulgarin, without whom I don t know what Norfield would look like. Nereida and I are especially grateful for the congregation s love and support and we look forward to our continued ministry together. It is an honor and privilege to serve as Norfield s 35 th Senior Minister. Nereida and I look forward to our future years together. God s Richest Blessings, Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson Senior Minister 8

9 ASSOCIATE MINISTER FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Associate for Children, Youth and Families Report 1 Peter 4:10 - Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. My family has been inordinately blessed by belonging to Norfield Church and by truly becoming part of the Norfield Family. I am grateful to the Clergy, Staff and Leadership who have made my ministry at Norfield possible. I am also grateful for the support, love and prayers of the entire Congregation. You have loved me into the Minister I am becoming, and I am thankful to God for this community of believers every day was great and 2018 is promising to be an amazing year at Norfield! I looked at 2017 as a time to reengage, reinvigorate and regenerate our shared faith journey. Now I am excited to see what God will do through Tilly Story as Youth Director and Rev. Diane Stevenson as Transitional Associate Minister with help from Basil Poulopoulos. This past May, Norfield Church confirmed 17 youth. The confirmation class of 2018 has 21 members who are thoughtfully engaged in weekly classes that cover church history, theology, Scripture, Christian formation and the history of the UCC. We had a wonderful Confirmation Retreat at Camp Jewell for the 2017 class and this year s class will have a retreat right before they are Confirmed. The 2018 class is active, engaged and are having fun! The High School students also had a successful Midnight Run and Mission Trip to Baltimore, MD. This was our biggest Mission Trip yet with 41 participants! We served at Urban Farming collectives and fed homeless individuals. We bonded and had a blast. The Middle School kids had our most successful 30-Hour Famine in recent years. We raised enough money to sponsor a Young Woman Scholar at the Sega School through Nurturing Minds in Africa. We also made a donation to the Weston Food Pantry and World Vision. The Intermediate School Group met weekly after Music Makers Ministry. Though service and fun, we ve learned to deepen our faith. David, Kaitlin, Ellen Dickinson and Marcia Louis plus Penny Anderson and all of the volunteers work together to make Music Makers Ministry such a successful outreach to our youngest Norfielders. We even had an Original Production by Ellen Dickinson for our Christmas Pageant. It has been my honor to serve as the Associate at Norfield for the past six-and-a-half years. My sendoff was such a gift to my family and me. We will forever treasure the memories of our shared ministry together and will continue to hold Norfield in prayer every day. I owe Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson the deepest debt of gratitude for encouraging me to do my best at Norfield. I also thank David, Penny, Teri, Andrew, Erley, Ellen W., Basil, Tilly and Rev. Diane for making Norfield the best church in Connecticut. Together, we are beyond blessed! Godspeed, Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers 9

10 MODERATOR 2017 ANNUAL REPORT It has been a year of beginnings and endings for Norfield. At our Council meetings we have shared the efforts of our boards and members to uphold the Norfield vision to be a fruitful body of Christians. Together, we have grappled with issues that call on us to articulate our ideals and viewpoints, and have developed consensus that illustrates our faith in action brought baptisms and graduations, new members joining, the confirmation of our young adults, and the beginning of internships. It was also a year of farewells, to too many long-serving and beloved members, and the end of Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers service to us. We will miss her greatly, but have faith that the search committee, headed by David Lummis, is working diligently to find our new Director of Youth Ministries. We will see where God leads that part of Norfield next in I started to count the many inspirational leaders who serve Norfield: From Rev. Bernard Wilson and Rev. Kelly, and the fresh voices of Rev. Diane Stevenson, Dr. David Connell, Norfielder Calvin Mew, Rev. Dr. Ruby M. Wilson, Safe Haven United Church of Christ; Rev. Dr. Carolyn Blair, Rev. Robert Pennoyer, Church of the Heavenly Rest, and Rabbi Michael Friedman, Temple Israel, each Sunday was a thoughtful and uplifting experience. And that s just from the pulpit. Our Music programs made so many moments transcendent: The Sanctuary and Handbell Choirs, the Music Maker Ministries that rock Wednesday afternoons, the talented young soloists in our congregation and the sweet voices of the cherubs who make God s love present. To David Connell, Kaitlyn Carey, Ellen Dickinson, and Marcia Louis we owe a great debt of thanks. Penny Anderson and so many Norfield members make our Discovery Hour programs work, providing our children with the foundation of faith that will carry them through their lives. In the coming year Intern Ellen Willert will re-energize our Soul Food ministries. And it s difficult to imagine how Norfield could run without the efforts of Church Administrator Andrew Cumming, Administrative Assistant Teri Gaberman, and Erley Pulgarin. As my term as Moderator draws to a close, I thank all of those I mention here and all the others who have helped make leading the Council a joyful honor. I know that Tracy Pennoyer will lead you next with thoughtful and sound insight, and I wish her smooth sailing. To the community of Norfield I wish the strength to go forth singing, with the banner of Jesus Christ before, to show the world just what we a difference we can make in the lives of others. Respectfully submitted, Rob Sanders 10

11 CHURCH CLERK 2017 ANNUAL REPORT The records and statistics of the Norfield Congregational Church and the Minutes of the Norfield Congregational Church Council Meetings and Special Meetings have been kept in order for the year. Over the course of the year Deacons and the church office did an outstanding job to clear up our records. Statistics are as follows: Baptisms... 6 Marriages... 2 Deaths... 9 Transfers Out... 0 Reinstated... 0 New Members... 8 Withdrew Membership... 0 Members joining by Confirmation Total Membership Quorum (20% of Members) Respectfully Submitted, Shivanthi Edwards In Memoriam Ernest Z. Bower III Wendy demonchaux James Hogg Joan Lewis Fred Schneider Jim Schaper Pat Brown Dean Hartman Ruth Hogg Barbara Oliver Shirley Schneider 11

12 BOARD OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Once again, we used the Spark House curriculum in our Discovery Hour Program. The curriculum engages the children with Bible stories and activities and relates these stories of faith to our lives today. A big heart-felt thanks to our dedicated teachers Liz Cocoros, Maddie Hensinger, Illona Bos, Lucas Casellas, Amy Young, Michelle Mecca, The Braun Family, Paula Tracey, Margaret Buddenhagen, Herbert Parker, Britta Lerner, Elizabeth Salem, Sarah Bower, and Ingrid Milne. We expanded our faith exploration outside the classroom and continued our Hearts and Hands programs initiated for the school year. This program invites those doing God s work in the community into our Discovery Hour morning classroom time to share their experiences with the children. We were visited by Guiding Eyes for the Blind and met several families and the beautiful puppies they are raising. These puppies will eventually be trained to be the companions for the vision impaired. The Weston Fire Department sent some dedicated volunteers to explain their work in our community. They even brought a truck for us to explore. Our own Dr. Christa Gross, a pediatric cardiologist, brought a model of the heart and talked to us about several of her very special brave patients. As we learn the stories of our faith, we are also becoming aware of God s work in our community and the world. Respectfully Submitted, Penny Anderson 12

13 CHURCH ADMINISTRATOR 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Norfield Congregational Church continues to do amazing things for our congregation, the community, and the world. We are blessed to have a wonderful staff and a team of incredible volunteers who work tirelessly in executing our mission. It s been a pleasure working alongside Kurt Schreder our treasurer this year. As a team, we are accountable and responsible for the accuracy of the Church Finances, so the various boards can make informed financial decisions. We ensure our financial reports are accurate, detailed, and timely. We are also responsible to present a detailed annual budget based on financial facts and manage our budget throughout the year. With the assistance of the Board of Trustees (Don Gary), the Investment Committee (Kurt Schreder, Bill Lomas, Calvin Mew, and Dana Troxell) as well as the Treasurer (Kurt Schreder) the finances are in order, bank accounts reconciled, monthly reports are accurate and submitted on time, and journal entries are detailed for auditing purposes and full transparency. Phyllis Gary continues to be instrumental in ensuring all bills are coded correctly, paid on time, and filed appropriately, as well as assisting with the weekly deposits. Pam LaFontaine continues to do an incredible job in ensuring all our vendors are paid on time and receive timely and accurate 1099 statements. It s been a pleasure working with our Board of Trustees in managing and safeguarding our entire Church Complex. Norfield has passed all Safety and Health inspections and we remain in compliance with all Federal and State laws, statutes, requirements and guidelines in operating our non-profit organization. It has been an honor working with the HR board (Jean Davis-French, chair) and the UCC Pension Boards in drafting and managing the HR Budget, payroll, pay/benefits, and staff's 403b and pension retirement plans. The staff at Norfield Church is professionally dedicated to our congregation and continue to work tirelessly in executing the myriad of responsibilities, tasks, and functions in operating Norfield Congregational Church. We had a seamless transition and professional turnover by Maclyne Josselin to Teri Gaberman. Maclyne Josselin did an incredible job with managing our cash accounting system (Church Windows) and helping me reconcile the Church Windows and QuickBooks financial and accounting programs monthly. Teri has hit the deck-plates running and is doing amazing things since she reported onboard in September. David Connell is a vital and integral part of our team - his duties as Director of the Music Program and what he brings to the congregation are simply amazing. His work in the care and nurturing of our youth at our Wednesday Music Makers Ministry program is a blessing. Erley Pulgarin continues to be the backbone of Norfield and is always there when we need him most. His giving heart is always there for anyone in need. Penny Anderson s dedication to Norfield and our youth and all our programs continues to be a blessing. Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers care for our congregation 13

14 and all our programs was truly remarkable - she is there day, night, weekend or weekdays always there to minister to the church she loves she will be missed and is loved. Lastly, I continue to listen, discern, reflect, and execute on the respected advice and counsel of our beloved Senior Minister Bernard Wilson. Thank you for the opportunity to be your Administrator and God Bless. Respectfully Submitted, Andrew Cumming 14

15 DIRECTOR OF MUSIC & WORSHIP ARTS & BOARD OF MUSIC 2017 ANNUAL REPORT There s always a lot going on at Norfield in the area of music and worship and it s wonderful how much our musicians feel the appreciation of the congregation in every way. Our choir members, their families, our guest musicians, and our music leaders all gather together to say thanks to the congregation for the support that makes our work possible. Bell Choir and Sanctuary Choir. Our services are lifted to a higher level with the musical contributions of our dedicated ringers and singers. The Memorial Handbell Choir played once a month, and their skills continue to improve both as individuals and as an ensemble. The Sanctuary Choir sings an anthem or two for every service, even more for festival services. Their faithful efforts, giving over the whole morning each Sunday to rehearsing and leading worship, pays off in weekly inspiration for the congregation. Norfield is blessed by the generous gifts of time and talent offered by our adult choirs. Music Makers Ministry. Our Wednesday afternoon children s programming had a fantastic year. On April 30, we presented Rescue in the Night, a musical pageant about Daniel in the Den of Lions. A lively group of singers told the story, accompanied by a solid group of young instrumentalists. In the fall, we presented the first part of The Sailor s Bible, telling the story of Noah and the Ark. Then we had a Christmas pageant written just for us by Ellen Dickinson, Long Time Ago in Bethlehem, with songs and carols from America. We re glad to have so many new young families taking part in the MMM program. Marcia Louis led the Cherubs each week, and in worship each Communion Sunday. Kaitlin Lazere and Ellen Dickinson led the Music Makers as they continued to learn and grow, singing one Sunday a month in addition to presenting their pageants. We are blessed by caring, loving volunteers Barbara Cotter, Karen Moraitis, Lucas Casellas, Tom Story, and great staff Penny Anderson, Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers, Tilly Story, Basil Poulopoulos, and Erley Pulgarin. Children s Church. In the fall, Ellen Dickinson introduced Children s Church, a time of singing, playing, sharing and praying that bridges between the worship service and the Discovery Hour class time. This program is jointly supported by the Christian Education and Music Boards. It is vitally important for the children to have personal experiences of worship if we want them to grow into adults who are connected to the faith. Special Guests. We welcomed the Men of Pivot Ministries, once at Norfield and once at the beach service. The Good News Gospel Choir led by Chris Coogan and Jason Terry came back to make Gospel Sunday inspirational. The Norfield Pizza Band returned in June, with a lively set of praise songs. It s great to have adults and youth together in praising God. We had solos sung by Jeremy Hetzler, Kimberly Wilson, Rev. Dr. Bernard R. Wilson, Rev. Dr. Carolyn C. Blair (premiering my song I Will Shine, based on Rev. Wilson s baptismal liturgy), Mia Jean Wilson, Erin Dillon, and Anneliese Lomas. Three of our young instrumentalists played solos, Julia Schreder on the french horn, Natalie Schreder on the viola and Kaeli Mecca on the violin. On Graduation Sunday we enjoyed a duet from Julia Schreder and Rachael Buddenhagen. Flautist Jim Birch played for several special services, and oboist John Hanulik was our guest on 15

16 a Lenten Sunday. Piano solos were played by Kathy Buss (sister of Jennifer Barron) and Nancy M. Williams. Kimberly Wilson returned to present her fantastic one-woman show A Journey. During the summer, Ellen Dickinson, Kaitlin Lazere and Shelby Miller provided musical leadership in worship. Our Christmas celebrations were brightened by the return of Kevin MacWilliams narrating the Shadow Puppet Nativity, the trumpeting of Steve Cuomo and Tom Hoffman, flute playing by Jim Birch and David Connell, and the wonderful bell ensemble of seven youth and five adult ringers, led by Ellen Dickinson. The Bell Project. In late spring, we discovered that the steeple bell had a cracked yoke and an extremely worn clapper. We discontinued ringing the bell out of safety concerns, and began to investigate options for restoration. By the end of the year, Bayard Dodge had worked with the Trustees and Council and garnered support from several generous donors to make it possible for a new yoke, wheel and clapper to be made. The work is being done by the I.T. Verdin company of Cincinnati, Ohio. A new bronze bell is being cast for the belfry of the Banks Room. Equipped with a remote-controlled ringing mechanism, this bell will be able to ring for weddings, holidays, and memorial services using a smart phone. We hope to complete this project by Easter, The Casavant Organ. The pipe organ in the sanctuary was built by the Casavant Frères of Ste.- Hyacinthe, Québec, in It is due for a major restoration to ensure many more years of service. Because the work on the bells is more urgent, the organ project is on hold. We ll be working with the original builders as well as our maintenance company, hoping to have the organ restored in time for a re-dedication on the 50th anniversary of its installation. Board of Music. The Board of Music is directly responsible for the all-music celebration dinner in May and the all-congregation Caroling Dinner in December, plus providing receptions at concerts and on pageant days. They also support Norfield music in regular meetings, led by Bayard Dodge, a proactive and committed chairperson. Many thanks to members Laurie Dillon, Carol Hamilton, Art Lungo, Ingrid Milne, Susan Moran, Arlene Pitts, Julia Schreder, and Kimberly Wilson. Personal note from David. I encountered some health setbacks early in 2017, and throughout the year of working back to normal I have relied heavily on our strong musical leaders. Kaitlin Lazere and Ellen Dickinson have been ready to step in all through the year, subbing for me and each other to work with any and all of our ensembles. Likewise, the church staff and our choir members and families have been so supportive and understanding during this difficult time. I am deeply appreciative of the prayers and patience from everyone I work with. Many, many thanks! Farewells. Our friend Arlene Pitts moved away in September. Her combination of practicality and warmth made a big difference to our music programs, especially our Wednesday dinners. The Cuomo family will also be missed as they have moved to Pelham. A year ago, we bid a final farewell to Pat Brown, whose skill with her songs and her hand puppets brightened the lives of so many young people here at Norfield over the years. Respectfully submitted, David H. Connell, Director of Music and Worship Arts Bayard Dodge, Chair, Board of Music 16

17 BOARD OF DEACONS 2017 ANNUAL REPORT We are all God s ministers, and we are charged with doing His work through our beloved Norfield. This is one of the many lessons I have learned over the years from Bernard, Kelly and the many other excellent spiritual leaders we have had here. Our Pastors will indeed lead us, and guide us, and teach us. But we all clergy and laity share the responsibility for the work of this church. Being a Deacon at Norfield is an embodiment of that notion. Deacons are regular folks who, generally, do not have much training or experience in providing leadership of a religious or spiritual nature. Over time, Deacons take their turns on the altar and at the pulpit: We read scripture, pray over the offering, write & deliver the Pastoral Prayer, offer communion, support memorial services, and assist with baptisms. We become more aware and thoughtful of what happens in the sanctuary during any service. Being a Deacon is about serving the spiritual and worship aspects of Norfield. We are instilled with a sense of responsibility and commitment, and we are emboldened to serve. Our confidence to participate and serve grows. All the while, we learn and grow as Christians. Our faith is deepened and enriched. Should you ever have a question or comment related to spiritual or worship matters of this church, please talk to a deacon. Each deacon deserves Norfield's gratitude. Throughout the year, they have all made contributions that make a difference. To Judy Albin, Laura Casellas, Christy Kinseley, Dan Klein, John Ruane, Adrienne Wallace, Lorenzo Wyatt, Rachael Buddenhagen, and Gray Troxell: I am grateful. After several years of being a Deacon at Norfield, I wonder: Was I serving Norfield or was Norfield serving me? In Faith, David Lummis Board of Deacons, Chair 17

18 BOARD OF FELLOWSHIP 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Our love to God is measured by our everyday fellowship with others and the love it displays. - Andrew Murray The Board of Fellowship's New Member Ministry team welcomed 25 new members to our congregation during We encourage all members to reach out to people in our community to join us for Sunday worship. In addition, we invite our Congregants to help guide our visitors on a path to membership by becoming a sponsor. Throughout this past year, the board has sponsored and organized the following events: Homecoming Sunday Luncheon, New Member Brunch, Annual Meeting Luncheon, Men s March Madness Dinner, Agape Dinner, Ladies Ornament Exchange and the managing the scheduling of all Sunday Fellowship Hour Gatherings. Fellowship is also active in supporting other committees when needed, especially during this past year s memorial services and most recent farewell reception for Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers. Thank you to all of our faithful Fellowship Board members: Ginny Awn, Jenny Mitchell, Beto Casellas, Anne Troxell, Amy Young and Diane Sather. Your gifts are appreciated! Our board looks forward to 2018 to help strengthen spiritual relationships across our membership to better serve God, our community, our church and you! Blessings, Teri Gaberman Board of Fellowship, Chair 18

19 BOARD OF OUTREACH 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Our goals are to educate, inspire, and engage Norfielders in Outreach activity. Our efforts will be focused on promoting an interactive outreach program that engages members of the Norfield community at multiple levels that include active and direct participation as well as financial support was another year of building and growing our existing platform of outreach activities that Norfield supports through our time, talent, and treasure. We continue to strive to make a difference in the community, build awareness of community needs across the congregation and enrich the faith body by broadening members horizons and our own reach into the community. Norfield s outreach activities are broken down into three categories: 1) Refugee Re- Settlement; 2) Engaging with marginalized members of society and 3) supporting Women (Families) in Crisis. By breaking down Norfield s Outreach into three categories, our goal is to directly engage the congregation in the outreach mission and activities that offer numerous opportunities to help those in need. Following our traditional focus, we we re able to support an expanded and varied number of beneficiary organizations and initiatives: CLASP Homes IICONN (International Institute of Connecticut) renamed CT Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) in September 2017 Bridgeport Rescue Mission Midnight Run Norfield Youth Ministry Person to Person Ministries Pivot Ministries Weston Social Services United Church of Christ Wider Mission ACTIVITIES OF OUTREACH Auction Dinner Outreach s primary fundraiser of the year was the Auction Dinner held Saturday, April 29, 2017 where over 100 guests joined Outreach for our Spring into Life themed auction dinner. This year s event was a little different with a separate live auction tent, but the change did not dampen the enthusiasm of the participants. We exceeded our expectations and prior years by raising approx. $41,000 which netted us the same amount 19

20 we grossed the previous year, $31,000. These funds, in addition to those generated from private donations have been distributed for calendar year Special thanks go to Auction Dinner Leaders Sue Ingall and Karen Lummis, who did a tremendous job conceiving, organizing, and managing the event. Thanks also to all the members of the Event Team and the many Norfield youth who helped with waiting tables and cleanup. A Day of Giving Norfield s Day of Giving was held this year on September 23, Once again Norfield turned out some 100 volunteers including members of our church and our friends came together for a Day of Giving and spent the day working on a number of projects and initiatives for our beneficiaries: Blazing a trail through the wild fields of the Lachat farm Providing meals for recent refugees Supporting the Bridgeport Rescue Mission s tag-less sale of clothing to those in need Cleaning out the basement storage area at CIRI and enhancing the lighting and humidity of the area! Hosting a luncheon, dance, and games for learning-disabled adults Helping citizens in need across our town with repairs, painting, landscaping, cleanup, and tree pruning around their homes At the end of the day, one s participation in The Day of Giving provides the ultimate reward the gift of giving. In addition to our two large events, Outreach has remained committed to the following important local services: CIRI (Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants) -- Refugee Home Set-up IICONN got a new name in 2017! IICONN is now known as the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants or CIRI. They are still the wonderful full-service, nonprofit agency they always have been, but wanted a name that was more representative of what they do and who they serve. And, as they are just entering their Centennial year in 2018, it seemed like a perfect time to change has been a particularly challenging year for CIRI, as the government immigration restrictions reduced the flow of incoming refugees (from anywhere). This has negatively impacted the government funding of CIRI activity while they try to maintain the same critical client services that are needed amongst the immigrant/refugee community. 20

21 In March, Norfielders had the unique opportunity to show their support at a REFUGEE RALLY held in Bridgeport with Senator Blumenthal as the keynote speaker. He gave a moving speech about his own immigrant background and the vital role immigrants play in the fabric of America. Despite a quiet summer and autumn, Norfielders were involved with mentoring and employment empowerment initiatives, and enthusiastically rallied at the beginning of December to welcome our first refugee family from the Congo since the restrictions were implemented. This family had lived in a refugee camp for 11 years the mother and father were married in the camp and all four children were born in the refugee camp. So, this was the children s first ever home. Going into CIRI s centennial year in 2018, we plan to continue our involvement, welcoming and mentoring refugees and will promote the various centennial activities planned across the year. Gillespie Center Outreach oversees the volunteers that participate on the second Sunday of each month to provide food and serve dinner to residents of the Gillespie Center in Westport. Person-to-Person Christmas Gifts Another long tradition at Christmas time are the family gifts that are provided by Norfielders to families in the local area in need of gifts for their children. This year over 60 children received gifts from Norfielders. Midnight Run Norfield Youth participates in a Midnight Run each year where we bring food and clothing to homeless individuals in Manhattan. Weston Senior Lunch Outreach oversees the Norfield participation in providing food and serving the lunch to the members of the Weston Senior Center. The participation and enthusiasm of the many volunteers is greatly appreciated and provides a great fellowship time for the volunteers. While there is a Norfield Outreach Board per se, suffice it to say that almost everything we do as a church involves some type of outreach effort, and for that we would like to thank the congregation and all the various committees for their immense generosity of time, talent, and treasure. We cannot emphasize enough that every member of Norfield is a member of the Outreach Committee it s what we do!! Respectfully submitted, Dave MacWilliams, Board Co-Chair Bob Smits, Board Co-Chair 21

22 PASTORAL RELATIONS COMMITTEE 2017 ANNUAL REPORT The Pastoral Relations Committee met with Rev. Dr. Bernard Wilson and Rev. Kelly Hough Rogers throughout the past year. We worked to ensure an open and healthy relationship between the congregation and our pastors. At times, we served as an advisory group, and at other times, as a resource group. Our work is done in strict confidence. When called to do so, the committee reports to the Church Council. In faith, Al Bartosic, Caroline Schreder, Jenny Mitchell, Tracy Pennoyer, David Lummis, Tom Harris 22

23 SHEPHERDS PROGRAM 2017 ANNUAL REPORT In the love of God, I am comforted and strengthened, calm and assured. Realizing that what I receive I can also give. I am divine love and strength in expression toward others. I am comforted, and I comfort others. These divine attributes and resources are mine, for I am a beloved creation of God. The Norfield Shepherd program has been providing congregational care for over 30 years! This is what a Shepherd is, someone who is comforted and cared for by God and then reaches out to others in the same way. The Shepherds are there as support and called upon when needed. They are there for you in time of need or just to let you know they are thinking of you by sending a card or giving a call. The Shepherds purpose is extending the hand of friendship and reaching out, communicating, and extending pastoral care. Norfield has thirty-two Shepherds. In order to keep a good connection with all our shepherds we have two yearly meetings, one on a Saturday morning and another one on a weeknight. Rev. Wilson and Rev. Hough Rogers attended these meetings in 2017, where the shepherds found out how things are going, what needed to be done, and communicated about any problems that shepherds might be having. We suggested to Rev. Wilson that one Sunday at church there would be a recognition of the Shepherd Program and then we would be responsible for the Fellowship Hour afterwards. This would also help those who only know their Shepherd by the cards they sent and a way to meet them in person. We would like to thank Rev. Wilson and Rev. Kelly for their participation at our meetings. It s very beneficial to us as well as to them so that they know how well the program is going. We also want to thank every Shepherd for the care they take of their families. If anyone has an interest in this program, please contact Missy Dorsey. Bear one another s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 In love, Missy Dorsey, Co-chair Lois Betchel, Co-chair 23

24 BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2017 ANNUAL REPORT Pursuant to the Constitution of Norfield Congregational Church, the Board of Trustees is responsible to: 1) Raise funds for the Church by conducting an annual Stewardship Drive 2) Manage the property, finances and secular affairs of the Church 3) Supervise the operation of the Memorial Garden 4) Prepare and submit to Council a budget for presentation at the annual meeting 5) Other related matters. Two of the more necessary (and visible) projects this past year were the completion of the new and upgraded HVAC for P-1 (the Senior Minister s Parsonage) and the removal of the barn at P-2 (on the corner of Weston and Norfield Roads). With regard to P-1, we changed systems from oil to gas (propane, with a simple changeover when natural gas is available), and re-ducted the entire house. Rob Sanders was a terrific help in this. During a snowstorm last spring, the barn at P-2 went from sagging to collapsed. After discussions with the Historical Society and various barn restorers, removal was the only viable option. It was removed, covered with topsoil and planted with grass. Many less obvious repairs and upgrades were facilitated by Andrew and Skip Wyatt, through his Mr. Handyman company. Lucy Bowden has been the liaison to the Norfield Children s Center; Woody Bliss is organizing a campaign for Planned Giving; Roger Bos has modernized our computer communications; Barney Stevenson has organized the plate count duties; Buildings and Grounds have been cared for by Trustees Skip Wyatt and Fred Schneider and non-trustee Phyllis Gary. David Connell gets special thanks for all of his plantings. In addition, we have benefited from the wise council of John Quist, Calvin Mew, Jacqueline Blechinger and Chris Edwards. Al Bartosic and Laura Casellas have led the yet-again successful Stewardship Campaign and the Investment Committee of Bill Lomas, Kurt Schreder, Dana Troxell, Calvin Mew and Geoff Bradshaw-Mack have done an outstanding job of growing the Church s investments. Kurt Schreder has done an excellent job a Treasurer, keeping us focused on both staying within budget and getting projects done. Andrew has become the QuickBooks expert and has provided timely and accurate accounting for our meetings, as well as being helpful in every aspect of the Church s administration. All of our hearts were broken this fall when we lost both Fred and Shirley Schneider, who were the principals of the Memorial Garden Committee. Fred had also been a long time Trustee. Both were passionate about Buildings and Grounds, but especially Grounds. Carol Hamilton has joined Britta Lerner, Phyllis Gary and myself to continue the Committee. Respectfully Submitted, Don Gary, Board Chair 24

25 MEMORIAL GARDEN 2017 ANNUAL REPORT I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. John 11:25-26 This summary is dedicated to the memory of Fred and Shirley Schneider who were among the leaders of the revitalization of the Memorial Garden in the late 1990s. This year, we lost many members of our Norfield family. We also celebrated births and baptisms, marriages and new members all in our Memorial Garden. Let us continue to honor the memories of joy and sorrow and to treasure this space. The Memorial Garden was dedicated in For over 30 years, it has remained a place of beauty to remember friends and loved ones. It also provides a peaceful spot for quiet reflection and has been used for serviced and church functions. Approximately 277 spaces are currently utilized or committed, including an additional ten during Spaces may be purchased for $600. Engraved stone markers are available from Fairfield Monument for $675* including tax. Anyone wishing to purchase a space or needing further information on any aspect of the Garden should contact a member of the Memorial Garden Ministry Team (Phyllis and Don Gary, Britta Lerner and Carol Hamilton. Our church office contact is Teri Gaberman). The Memorial Garden is maintained through the efforts of the Memorial Garden Ministry Team. Other Norfielders wishing to help are always welcome. Key improvements made this year include the cleaning of all bricks (some of which were re-engraved as needed) as well as additional plantings and extensive pruning. The 2017 year-end balance in the Restricted Memorial Garden Fund established for preservation and perpetual care of the Garden was $104,406. Respectfully Submitted, Britta Lerner on behalf of the Memorial Garden Ministry Team *Prices have stayed the same for two years but are subject to change from the supplier. 25

26 HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE 2017 ANNUAL REPORT The Human Resources (HR) Committee is responsible for matters relating to salaries, benefits, hours and conditions of employment for all Church employees. We also advise and assist the Church Council in recruiting all Church employees except the ministerial staff. The HR Committee accomplished the following in 2017: Upon the resignation of the Administrative Assistant, the HR Committee performed all activities required to engage a Transitional Administrative Assistant until a replacement was hired. Identified and managed the recruitment process followed in order to replace the Administrative Assistant including developing the job posting, ensuring it was posted in the church bulletin and sent to church members via an eblast, reviewing applications (two were received), recommending candidate to be selected, recommending salary and benefit accommodations and preparing offer letter. Supported the Search Committee by serving on the Search Committee, updating the Job Description of the Associate Minister, conducting a survey of surrounding UCC Churches and developing the posting to be used to advertise the opening. In 2018 the HR Committee will continue to support the Search Committee in their efforts to identify a replacement for the Associate Minister. In addition, we will focus on updating the Employee Handbook focusing on the Disability Policy. We will also continue to support the Church Council and the Senior Minister in their efforts to provide a safe, comfortable, enjoyable work environment. Respectfully Submitted, Jean Davis-French, Chair Members: Bayard Dodge, John Kistler, Taffy Miller, Judy Stripp 26

27 NOMINATING COMMITTEE 2017 ANNUAL REPORT The Nominating Committee thanks everyone who has served on a Board or Committee in the past year. Your time, input, and efforts are greatly appreciated. * CT completing term Name Position Status Officers of the Congregation Length Max. Start End Limit Tracy Pennoyer Moderator Nominee 1 yr 2 yrs 02/18 02/19 02/20 Mary Crawford Vice-Moderator Nominee 1 yr 2 yrs 02/18 02/19 02/20 Kurt Schreder Treasurer Returning 2 yrs 2 yrs 02/17 02/19 02/19 Assistant Treasurers, Clerk and Auditors of the Congregation Pam La Fontaine Ass't Treasurer Returning 2 yrs 6 yrs 02/14 02/16 02/20 Steven Coursen Ass t Treasurer Nominee 2 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/20 02/24 Shivanthi Edwards Clerk Returning 1 yr 6 yrs 02/17 02/18 02/23 Al Bartosic Auditor Returning 2 yrs 2 yrs 02/14 02/16 02/20 Bill Lomas Auditor Returning 2 yrs 2 yrs 02/15 02/17 02/21 Name Committee Status Deacons Length Max. Start End Limit Deacons- Illona Bos Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Deacons- Maddie Hensinger Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Scott Buddenhagen Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Adrienne Wallace Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 Sandie Kinseley Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Laura Casellas Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 Kimberly Wilson Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Tom Harris Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/17 02/20 02/23 Judy Albin Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/13 02/16 02/19 Deacons Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Tara Quist Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/17 02/20 02/23 Dan Klein Deacons Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/14 02/17 02/20 27

28 Name Committee Status John Moran Gaitrie Bos Walter McCullough Church Council Members-at-Large Council - Mbr at Large Council - Mbr at Large Council - Mbr at Large Name Committee Status Length Max. Start End Limit Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/17 02/20 02/23 Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 10/17 02/20 02/23 Board of Christian Education Length Max. Start End Limit Lucas Casellas CE- Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 CE- Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Eric Braun CE Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 Christa Gross CE Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/16 02/19 02/22 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/17 02/20 02/23 CE Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/17 02/20 02/23 Jennifer Haythorn CE Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/14 02/17 02/20 Jennifer Hough Kopis CE Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/14 02/17 02/20 Name Committee Status Board of Christian Outreach Length Max. Start End Limit Outreach- Audrey Braun Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Outreach- Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Outreach- Youth Nominee 1 yr 1 yr 02/18 02/19 02/19 Taffy Miller Outreach Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Sue Ingall Outreach Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Willie Sather Outreach Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/15 02/18 02/21 Outreach Nominee 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/18 02/21 02/24 Dave MacWilliams Outreach Returning 3 yrs 6 yrs 02/13 02/16 02/19 28