2016 St. Luke Union Church Annual Report

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2 TABLE OF CONTENTS Congregational Meeting Agenda Letter to the Congregation... 4 Congregational Meeting Minutes Building Committee Capital Campaign Christian Education Financial Report Fund Balances Financial Report Fund Activity Financial Report General Fund Learning Ministry Team Membership Statistics Mission Ministry Team Moderator s Report Personnel Report Resource Ministry Team Stewardship Worship Ministry Team Women s Fellowship Green Team Nominating Committee... 31

3 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AGENDA January 22, 2017 Call to order Bob Hinthorn, Vision & Ministry Council Moderator Opening Prayer Pastor Andy Gifford Confirming Quorum Approving Minutes for January 24, 2016 Congregational Meeting Vote Needed Correction/Questions to Annual Report Bob Hinthorn NEW BUSINESS: Building Committee Report Dan Moret, Chairperson Chairperson for Nominating Committee: DeDe Verplaetse Motion/vote needed Nominations for Vision & Ministry Council (3 year term) Class of 2019 Ed Proctor, Jeremy Rambo, Nicole Southwick, Linda Weirman Nominations for Personnel Committee (3 year term) Class of 2019 Rod Hawkins, Laura Hinthorn Nominations for Nominating Committee (2 year term meets quarterly) Class of 2018 Charlene Beringer, Marcia Nagy Nominations for Treasurer Sue Boerner Continues as Treasurer Penny Kellogg Continues as Assistant Treasurer Vision & Ministry Council Appointments: (No vote needed): John Waha Moderator Karlene Bledsoe Continues as Clerk of Council Gwen Yurieci Continues as Financial Secretary Suspend Congregational Meeting for Meeting of the St. Luke Union Church Corporation Motion/vote needed to suspend Congregational Meeting for Corporation Meeting. Motion/vote needed to elect John Waha as President for the Corporation, and to re-elect Karlene Bledsoe as Secretary, Sue Boerner as Treasurer, and Penny Kellogg as Assistant Treasurer and for the Corporation. Motion/ vote needed to close the Meeting of the Corporation to reinstate the Congregational Meeting.

4 Treasurer s Report Sue Boerner/Terry Small Budget overview for 2016 Budget for 2017 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING AGENDA January 22, 2017 Information Item: Washington Street Water Leak Reflection and Comments Pastor Andy Gifford Motion to adjourn Closing Prayer and Grace for our luncheon Pastor Andy Gifford

5 LETTER TO THE CONGREGATION Wow, what a year. I sit looking at a wall that once afforded me large windows and a view of the south end of the St. Luke Union property. Behind that wall I know now sits a new addition and the possibilities of a future of ministry opportunities. I know that behind my office wall sits the culmination of years of planning, saving and discerning of God s greater plan. In 2016 I have learned a lot about architecture, construction, zoning and city inspections, and more than I had ever planned on as a Minister of Word and Sacrament. I m not sure there was ever a seminary class taught for the learning curve I experienced in 2016, but here we sit with construction complete and the possibilities beyond our imaginations. Early this past year had me clearing my plate of the duties I had taken on with both the United Church of Christ and Great Rivers Presbytery. That included no longer serving on the Finance & Business Committee of the Illinois Conference of the UCC and completing my term as the Personnel Chairperson of Great Rivers Presbytery, and that of the Chairperson of the General Presbyter Nominating Committee. Yet in the beginning of November I was again called into action and have been serving as the Adjunct General Presbyter for Great Rivers Presbytery. This job entails being available to assist the General Presbyter and member churches that are facing transitions in leadership and ministry. June marked the end of the first year of collections of funds dedicated to our capital campaign. We need to be proud that we had collected over half of the committed funds before the first shovel broke ground and because of this effort we were able to provide great assurance with the construction lending agency. We will not know exactly what the final loan amount for our project will be until we have paid our final construction bill and the three year capital campaign has been completed. With several new projects discovered during construction, I ask that you each keep St. Luke Union Church in the fore-front of your minds with your giving and generosity also marked several milestones in both my personal and ministerial life. As a 51 year old August saw our youngest son Seth head off to college at Trine University and Angola, IN. Becoming empty nesters has been a change for Sandi and me but the utility cost seem to be smaller. I also completed in my 26th Chicago to Mackinaw sailboat race and was able to get out and do some hunting and fishing which I very much enjoy. June 3rd then marked 10 years as an ordained minister, a journey that just seems to have begun. I look forward to the way in which God is calling me and St. Luke Union Church in vocation and ministry. With so many new possibilities in the new and reclaimed space of the church, get ready for a joyous ride, and let us simply be great for God and God s kingdom. Peace of Christ, Rev. Dr. Andrew J. Gifford

6 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES January 24, 2016 Meeting called to order by Bob Hinthorn, Moderator Pastor Andy Gifford opened with prayer A quorum was declared Approving Minutes for January 18, 2015 Motion was made to approve the Congregational Meeting Minutes for 1/18/15 as presented. Motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. None opposed. Correction/Questions to the Annual Report: No questions regarding the Annual Report were presented. New Business: Building Committee Report Dan Moret, Chairperson Bid packages for our building project will be ready February 1 st. Bid packages will be available for contractors February 3 rd. Bids are due back by March 2 nd. Bids will be reviewed March 3 rd. Bid recommendations will be presented to the Vision & Ministry Council March 15 th. Groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for April 17 th and the actual construction begins April 18 th. Dan thanked everyone involved in the process and thanked the congregation for their support. Chairperson for the Nominating Committee, Carla Staver presented nominations for the following: Nominations for Vision & Ministry Council Class of 2018 Marilyn Maffett, Dan Moret, Brian Trower, John Waha Nominations for Personnel Committee Class of 2018 Stephanie Dehner, need one more Nominations for Nominating Committee Class of 2017 John Boerner, DeDe Verplaetse Nominations for Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer Sue Boerner, Treasurer Penny Kellogg continues as Assistant Treasurer Nominations from the floor were opened. James Munro volunteered for Personnel Committee. Nominations from the floor were closed. Motion was made and seconded to close the nominations from the floor. None opposed. Motion was made and seconded to accept the new members as presented. Motion was approved by voice vote. None opposed.

7 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES January 24, 2016 Vision & Ministry Council Appointments: (No vote needed): Bob Hinthorn Continues as Moderator Karlene Bledsoe Continues as Clerk of Session Gwen Yurieci Continues as Financial Secretary Suspend Congregational Meeting for Meeting of the Corporation Motion made and seconded to suspend the Congregational Meeting for the St. Luke Union Church Corporation Meeting. Motion approved by voice vote. None opposed. The Meeting of the St. Luke Union Church Corporation Motion was made to re-elect Bob Hinthorn as President for the Corporation, Karlene Bledsoe as Secretary, Penny Kellogg as Assistant Treasurer and to elect Sue Boerner as Treasurer for the Corporation. Motion was seconded. Motion approved by voice vote. None opposed. Motion was made and seconded to close the meeting of the Corporation and to reinstate the Congregational Meeting. Motion approved by voice vote. None opposed. Treasurer s Report Terry Small Budget overview for 2015 Reviewed budget pages in the Annual Report. There were no questions or comments Budget Budget was approved with a $4,062 deficit. We are confident that we will make that deficit up during the year. Already looking at areas to re-negotiate contracts. Terms of Call for Pastor Congregational Vote Personnel Committee recommends a 3% salary increase for Pastor Andy Gifford. Motion was made and seconded to approve the Terms of Call for Pastor Gifford. Motion approved by voice vote. None opposed. Reflection and Comments Pastor Andy It is a joy to be Pastor of St. Luke Union Church. Motion to Adjourn Motion was made and seconded to adjourn the Congregational meeting. Motion approved by voice vote. None opposed.

8 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES January 24, 2016 Closing Prayer and Grace for our luncheon Pastor Andy Gifford Respectfully Submitted, Karlene Bledsoe, Clerk Vision & Ministry Council Robert Hinthorn, Moderator Karlene Bledsoe, Clerk Approved Date

9 BUILDING COMMITTEE The Building Committee is responsible for matters related to the research, design, and build of a new addition to the current church facility. It serves at the discretion of the Vision & Ministry Council. It is made of a committee and several teams. COMMITTEE AND TEAM MEMBERS: Committee Members: Dan Moret, Ruth Trower, Yvonne Harrison, Karlene Bledsoe, James Munro, Denny Redick, Ed Desmond, Pastor Andy Gifford, Pat Parmenter, Jeremy Rambo, Bob Hinthorn (Council Moderator) Sub-Teams: Core, Building Campaign, Finance, Interior Design, Kitchen Core: Dan Moret, Denny Redick, Ruth Trower, Bob Hinthorn, Pastor Andy Gifford Building Campaign: Lynne Wright, Chair (separate Annual Report) Finance: John Boerner, Dan Moret Interior Design: Joyce Pomrenke, Yvonne Harrison, Beth Harvey, Amanda Rambo, Mike Verplaetse, Dan Moret Kitchen: Ruth Trower, Karlene Bledsoe Summary: Construction documents were completed at the end of January, with the bid packet completed and mailed in February. On March 9 th, we received the bids from the 3 contractors we had selected. The bids were reviewed by the committee and a recommendation provided to the Vision & Ministry Council. At a special council meeting in March, PJ Hoerr was selected as the Builder. In March, we began the process of securing financing through the Presbyterian Investment and Loan Program. Through a long process that involved meetings with the Presbytery and the Synod, we were finally able to secure the financing in July. In addition to the financing, we were able to secure a $20,000 Christian Education grant to use for enhancements to our education space. The first draw on the construction loan didn t happen until the 3 rd request for payment in October, and then again with the 4 th request in December. Total drawn at year end was $400,000. Final payment has not yet been requested from PJ Hoerr. The ground breaking was held in April 17 th, with the construction beginning in May. Just as our permits were approved, there turned out to be an unexpected issue with zoning. Miraculously, construction was allowed to continue while a rezoning request was made, followed by public meetings and approvals from the City Zoning Board and the Bloomington City Council.

10 BUILDING COMMITTEE The most expensive change came early in the construction process when the city determined our sanitary sewer hookup didn t meet their interpretation of the requirements. The sanitary sewer line from the new addition would need to be run through the existing building, necessitating asbestos abatement of the ceiling in the lower level multi-purpose room and nursery. The opportunity was taken to put in a new ceiling with LED lighting, and to put up a dividing wall in the nursery to turn it into two classrooms. Throughout the summer, we watched as the foundation, framing, roof, elevator, interior and exterior finishing, and finally the grounds and site cleanup were completed. Issues with water plagued the construction resulting in flooding in the basement multiple times. The elevator also proved to be problematic, ultimately requiring a complete upgrade of all its software. We had 14 requests for changes over the course of construction with 12 approved. Not all increased the cost; there were two that reduced it. Total for approved changes was $34,321.22, or 3.14% of the contracted cost. Construction completed on October 28 th, right on schedule. At this point, only a few punch list items remain. Sweat Equity work allows for the savings of over an estimated $20,000. This was mainly in the labor to do all the interior and exterior painting in the new addition and in the lower level of the existing building, and in laying the laminate flooring in the lower level multi-purpose room. Landscaping was also included in the sweat equity. A lot of additional fixes were accomplished in the existing building as well by the efforts of church members and friends during the work days in October and November. Work will continue into early spring to complete the remaining items for the existing building and the landscaping. The ribbon cutting was done on November 13 th, officially marking occupancy of the new addition. Accomplishments: Construction documents completed in January Bid packages sent in February A builder was selected and approved by VMC in March The ground-breaking ceremony was held in April Construction began in May Financing in place in July Construction was completed at the end of October Ribbon cutting in November Total Expenses to Date: 2014: $22, : $47, : $1,013, Total: $1,084,020.33

11 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE Grow to Serve Thanks to this generous and committed congregation our long awaited addition is now complete. Much planning and work by the building committee has made this possible. As of December 31, 2016 a total of $593, has been pledged and $596, has been received. It is very important that if you have committed to a pledge that you continue your support. We will have a mortgage to begin paying so our continued giving is imperative. Thank you all so much for making this project attainable. Remember we give because we are blessed, thanks be to God. Respectfully submitted, Lynne Wright, Chair

12 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION During 2016, Christian Education continued to tweak its programs, allowing our students, adults, and parents, to grow in their faith. As your Christian Education Coordinator, I have one more semester of school to complete, and then I will graduate in May 2017, with a Master s in Religious Education. The new nursery, located on the first floor, was completed with the rest of the building addition in November, and looks great. We also added some new furniture to the nursery with memorial money. The kids and parents are enjoying this space! We also received a grant to build a wall in the old nursery, making it into two classrooms. The preschoolers and elementary kids are meeting in those classrooms on Sunday mornings. This year, the parenting class was made into a seminar format. A specific age group topic was chosen and presented by a guest speaker for a one-time meeting. Two seminars have/will occur for the program year. Youth Group, also known as SNAC, moved it s time back to the evening, from 5pm- 7pm. Youth can bring snacks or a sack dinner for the fellowship part of the night. It seems to be going well and allows the students to participate in Alternate Worship, when it is held. Margaret Anderson and Sara Kellum have partnered, to teach the 1 st -5 th grade Sunday School class. They are teaching all year, and have made it into an awesome environment and learning experience for these kids! VBS was held in early August. Since our building was under construction, we joined with First Presbyterian Church, Normal, at their location for an Egyptian VBS. This was a marketplace format, like last year. The best part of the event was ministering to 60 kids! It was great. It was also helpful to share resources and volunteers for the program. The mission for the week was through Group ministry, the curriculum company. The kids collected loose change for home repair projects in the USA. I continued teaching Home Bible and we covered Philippians, Philemon, and part of Galatians. Pastor Andy no longer does a Bible study on Sunday mornings due to low attendance. His Monday and Wednesday studies are going strong. We tried something new this year for our youth mission trip. Instead of doing home repair, we went to a Sr. High Conference put on by the PCUSA. Three of our students went. The content was disappointing, but the youth grew as a group, and were challenged to defend their Christian views. Following this experience, we held a sr. high fall retreat, to help the kids to go deeper into the topics from the conference. We were pleased with their conclusions after the retreat! God blessed us with another great year! In Him, Beth Harvey (CE Coordinator)

13 FINANCIAL REPORT FUND BALANCES UNRESRICTED FUNDS General Fund (less current liabilities) ($17,975.78) Prepaid Expenses $7, Total Unrestricted Funds ($10,265.00) TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED FUNDS Capital Improvements Fund $89, Building Fund $26, Undesignated $63, Good Samaritan Fund $ Memorial Fund $15, Designated $14, Undesignated $1, Recycling Fund (Designated for Mission) $3, Reserve Fund $21, Andy Scott Memorial Fund for Youth $ Women's Fellowship Fund $5, Youth Mission Trip Fund $5, Total Temporarily Restricted Funds $143, PERMANENTLY RESTRICTED FUNDS Anita Foster Memorial Fund $50, Ivan Jenkins Trust 50 year trust established in 1980 for $96,000 $260, Total Permanently Restricted Funds $310,264.20

14 FINANCIAL REPORT FUND ACTIVITY UNRESTRICTED FUNDS General Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $1,281 Transfer from Reserves $0 Receipts $258,296 Disbursements $277,552 12/31/2016 Balance ($17,976) TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED FUNDS Capital Improvements Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $426,033 Receipts Interest $6,208 Transfer from General Fund $3,949 Transfer from Memorials $16,209 Capital Improvement Donations $1,300 Building Fund Donations $268,758 PILP Loan $400,000 Total Receipts $696,424 Disbursements Asbestos Removal $19,200 Building Costs $1,013,280 Total Disbursements $1,032,480 12/31/2016 Balance $89,977 Good Samaritan Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $3,611 Reimbursements $0 Disbursements $2,899 12/31/2016 Balance $712

15 FINANCIAL REPORT FUND ACTIVITY Group Sale Income $8,211 Disbursements Transfer to General Fund $7,000 PATH $500 Tables & Racks $711 Total Disbursements $8,211 Memorial Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $16,247 Receipts - Memorials $15,989 Disbursements Transfer to Building Fund $16,209 Kitchen Shower $100 Choir $20 Total Disbursements $16,329 12/31/2016 Balance $15,907 Recycling Fund (designated for Mission) 12/31/2015 Balance $3,222 Receipts Aluminum $128 Scrap Metal and Electronics $21 Necessities Donation $240 Total Receipts $389 Disbursements $0 12/31/2016 Balance $3,611

16 FINANCIAL REPORT FUND ACTIVITY Reserve Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $25,150 Receipts $0 Disbursements Transfer to General Fund $0 Financial Audit $3,335 12/31/2016 Balance $21,815 Andy Scott Memorial Fund for Youth 12/31/2015 Balance $1,422 Disbursements Nursery Furn $952 12/31/2016 Balance $470 Women's Fellowship Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $4,654 Receipts $8,686 Disbursements $7,660 12/31/2016 Balance $5,680 Youth Mission Trip Fund 12/31/2015 Balance $3,777 Receipts $6,053 Disbursements $4,437 12/31/2016 Balance $5,394 PERMANTELY RESTRICTED FUNDS Anita Foster Memorial Fund $50,000 Ivan Jenkins Trust 9/30/2015 Balance $255,031 Change in Value $16,769 Interest to General Fund $11,535 9/30/2016 Balance $260,265

17 FINANCIAL REPORT GENERAL FUND BUDGET ACTUAL BUDGET BEGINNING CASH BALANCE $1,281 $1,281 TRANSFER FROM RESERVES $0 $0 $0 RECEIPTS Pledge Giving $213,000 $205,098 $215,000 Non-Pledge Giving $25,000 $22,352 $15,000 Prior-year Giving $1,000 $0 $1,000 Loose & Holiday Offering $6,000 $6,722 $6,000 Total Giving Receipts $245,000 $234,172 $237,000 Fundraising $7,000 $7,000 $7,000 Building Use $1,000 $810 $1,000 Interest & Dividends $13,000 $11,535 $13,000 Special Offerings $4,000 $2,297 $4,000 Per Capita Donations $3,000 $2,482 $3,000 Total Other Income $28,000 $24,124 $28,000 TOTAL RECEIPTS $273,000 $258,296 $265,000 TOTAL INCOME $273,000 $258,296 $265,000 DISBURSEMENTS Green Team $100 $20 $0 Learning Ministry Lay Leadership Training $350 $22 $200 Programs $2,000 $3,241 $2,000 Vacation Church School $700 ($112) $700 Recognitions $100 $0 $100 Total Learning Ministry $3,150 $3,150 $3,000

18 FINANCIAL REPORT GENERAL FUND BUDGET ACTUAL BUDGET DISBURSEMENTS (cont d) Mission Ministry Mission Giving Denominations $8,711 $7,899 $8,500 Per Capita $6,664 $6,664 $6,700 Local Mission $6,125 $5,854 $5,500 Youth Mission Trip $3,000 $3,000 $3,000 Sub-total-10% of Giving Receipts $24,500 $23,417 $23,700 Special Offerings $4,000 $2,297 $2,800 Total Mission Ministry $28,500 $25,714 $26,500 Resource Ministry Administrative Advertising $14,00 $1,277 $1,100 Stewardship $1,000 $727 $1,000 Office Supplies $2,000 $1,914 $2,000 Postage $2,000 $1,177 $2,000 Telephone $3,500 $3,549 $3,500 Computer Software & Support $2,800 $3,952 $2,800 Copier $4,400 $4,360 $4,400 Council $300 $146 $200 Total Administrative $17,400 $17,101 $17,000 Building and Grounds Utilities $14,000 $13,178 $14,000 Insurance $9,100 $12,065 $9,100 Building/Grounds Maintenance $8,400 $7,326 $8,400 Capital Improvements $0 $2,732 $0 Equipment Maintenance $1,500 $1,593 $1,500 Janitorial Supplies $1,000 $661 $1,000 Total Building and Grounds $34,000 $37,556 $34,000 Food and Hospitality $3,300 $2,283 $0 Total Resource Ministry $54,700 $56,940 $51,000

19 FINANCIAL REPORT GENERAL FUND BUDGET ACTUAL BUDGET DISBURSEMENTS (cont d) Worship Ministry Sanctuary $300 $282 $300 Pulpit Supply $1,000 $815 $1,000 Communion Supplies $50 $52 $50 Music and Drama $1,500 $1,208 $1,500 Organist Substitute $225 $375 $0 Guest Musicians $200 $400 $150 Flower Fund $0 $10 $0 Total Worship Ministry $3,275 $3,142 $3,000 Staff Pastor Salary and Housing $77,034 $77,034 $77,034 Pastor Pension and Insurance $29,400 $29,872 $29,400 Pastor Auto Allowance $1,500 $1,164 $1,500 Pastor Education Allowance $1,000 $319 $1,000 Pastor Professional Expense $1,500 $874 $1,500 Total Pastor Salary and Benefits $110,434 $109,263 $110,434 Administrative Assistant $17,300 $16,950 $11,500 Christian Education Coordinator $20,454 $20,454 $20,454 CE Coordinator Professional Allowance $500 $444 $500 Custodian $10,800 $11,380 $10,800 Organist and Choir/Bell Choir Director $21,630 $21,630 $21,630 Childcare Attendant $1,700 $1,372 $0 FICA/Medicare Taxes $5,400 $5,387 $5,400 Payroll Expenses $500 $1,705 $500 Total Salaries and Benefits $188,718 $188,586 $181,218 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS $278,443 $277,552 $264,718 ENDING CASH BALANCE ($4,162) ($17,975) $282

20 LEARNING MINISTRY TEAM In partnership with the community of faith and congregation of St. Luke Union Church (SLUC), the Learning Ministry Team will support the growth and development of a deep, personal and transforming relationship with God through prayer, Bible Study, Christian Education and service. Learning Ministry Team Members: Brenda Hoschele Doug Ferrier Nicole Southwick Carla Staver Stephanie Dehner Amanda Rambo Amie Keeton Marsha Hinthorn Beth Harvey - Director The group met as needed to organize and plan educational opportunities at SLUC. Dedicated volunteers faithfully lead the educational opportunities offered. We continue to look for opportunities to improve our program. In 2016, Christian Learning activity included: Nursery - In the summer the nursery was closed and made into two classrooms while the building project was underway. The new upstairs nursery was opened in November. The new space is great for young families. Primary (Pre-K, K-5) included creative Sunday morning for Pre-K, and the 1st-5th class started in September 2016 with dedicated teachers, Sara Kellum and Margaret Anderson. Every second Sunday, the children led Worship with singing. This summer, due to the construction, we partnered with First Presbyterian in Normal for Vacation Bible School. Kids visited ancient Egypt and learned about Joseph s Journey. VBS was held August 8 11 and we had kids travel over to First Presbyterian to participate. The church was transformed into a Marketplace where kids could visit different shops, including woodworking, a dye shop and games. Between the two churches we had 60 kids participate. Confirmation - We did not have any confirmands this spring due to a gap in this age group. Youth (6-12 grade) - Jr. High and Sr. High met for youth group (SNAC) until their summer break at the end of May. They played games, had Bible study, dinner, and worshiped together. Jr. High focused on confirmation, while Sr. High surveyed the Bible and it s meta-narrative. In early March, the youth attended Camp Timberlee Winter Extreme, where they won the Broomball Competition (you can see the trophy in Pastor Andy s office). In July three youth and Beth attended the 2016 Youth Triennium. In the fall, we started youth group again, going back to the original time, 5 7pm. In October and November the Jr. High and Sr. High had their own fall retreats.

21 LEARNING MINISTRY TEAM Adults Sunday morning Bible Study, Home Bible Class, Lamplighter s Circle, First Place 4 Health met throughout out the year and studied different books of the Bible. Pastor Andy led a study group on Monday and Wednesday regarding church history and the prayers of Jesus. A parenting class, Spiritual Parenting, that started in September 2015, continued into the first part of Once again, the Learning Ministry Team would like to extend our appreciation to all the teachers, cooks, cleaners and support teams that help the programs listed above thrive. We are truly blessed to have you as ministers in our church and had a great year because of you!

22 MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS MEMBERSHIP AS OF DECEMBER 31, MEMBERS DISMISSED LETTER OF TRANSFER NEW MEMBERS 2016 REAFFIRMATION OF FAITH 3 Sarah Kellum Anne Otto Susan Trower LETTER OF TRANSFER 1 Marshall Neisler CONFESSION OF FAITH 4 DEATHS Eleanor Jane Little (3/9/16) Evelyne D Thomas (3/13/16) Julia A Henthorn (6/15/16) Mary Ellen Schildt (6/20/16) Paul E Nelson (6/24/16) Mary E Betsy Larson (7/29/16) Richard L Dick Rice (8/13/16) Sherrillyn Ann Taylor (9/12/16) Ronald W Scott (10/19/16) 9 MEMBERSHIP AS OF DECEMBER 31, BAPTISMS 2016 Macey Amelia Sellberg (3/6/16) NEW BIRTHS 2016 WEDDINGS 2016 Tony Swanson & Allison Henson Married 10/1/16 By Msgr Brownsey, Peoria, IL

23 MISSION MINISTRY TEAM The Mission Ministry of St. Luke Union Church provides quarterly financial support to local missions and not-for-profit organizations. In addition, special offerings are given several times during the year which also supports local missions. We also support the worldwide missions of the Presbyterian Church, USA and United Church of Christ. The Mission Ministry members meet 4 times a year to select quarterly donation recipients. Members of the Mission Ministry team are: James Munro, Chairperson, Lori Blankenship, Margaret Hawkins, Joyce Pomrenke, VMC Liaison, Bob Hinthorn, Marilyn Maffet, Pierre Roussey, Ruth Trower, and John Waha. In 2016 we welcomed Lori Blankenship and Marilyn Maffet as new members. In 2016, the Mission Ministry continued to support the NECESSITIES ministry. NECESSITIES is designed to provide undergarments and personal need items to members of the homeless community in Bloomington-Normal. The ministry has been expanded to provide items for Neville House, a domestic violence shelter located in the twin cities. In addition to gifts provided by the congregation, NECESSITIES is funded through monies received from our recycling program. St. Luke Union Church offers facilities for newspaper and magazine recycling as well as participation in recycling aluminum beverage cans. The recycling program is also promoted within the community. We no longer receive funds for paper or plastic, and recycle prices for aluminum are down, so we have not seen as much of a return. This year the following programs were benefactors of the generosity of the members of St. Luke Union Church: As determined by Missions Ministry Team: Labyrinth OUTREACH Midwest Food Bank Children s Home & Aid Central IL Goodwill (Op Stand Down) Integrity Counseling Friends Forever Fostering Dignity Safe Harbor Mid Central Community Action (Neville House) Subtotal 5,886.80

24 Designated Mission Giving: MISSION MINISTRY TEAM One Great Hour of Sharing (UCC) OGHS (Presbytery) Peacemaking/Neighbors in Need IN (UCC) NIN (Presbytery) Per Capita (UCC) 3, Per Capita (Presbytery 3, Christmas Joy Fund (UCC) Christmas Joy Fund (Presbytery) Pilgrim Park 3, PCUSA General Mission 3, Youth Mission Trip 3, CASA Fibers of Love Subtotal 19, Grand Total 25, In addition to supporting Operation Stand Down financially, members of our congregation donated in kind supplies and volunteered at the event in Peoria which supports area homeless veterans. The in kind supplies included: 21 pairs of winter gloves 20 pairs of women s gloves 253 pairs of men s socks 50 pairs of reading glasses 176 eyeglass cases 22 bars of soap 35 tubes of Dermasil lotion The following Bible verses are being used to guide Mission Ministry. We begin each of our quarterly meetings with one of them. 1 John 3:17, Psalm 72:12, Psalm 10:14, Matthew 25:35-36a Minutes from our quarterly meetings can be found on the counter in the outer office. All members of the congregation are welcome to attend the quarterly meetings of the Mission Ministry Team.

25 MODERATOR S REPORT First, let me thank the entire congregation of St. Luke Union Church for allowing me to serve as Moderator of Council for the past two years. The experience was fulfilling, and I greatly appreciated your support. Thank you! Where do I begin to fully reflect on a 2016 that passed so quickly? While most of the focus seemed to be on our new addition, many adjustments were made behind the scenes. Our Christian Education programs, Vacation Bible School, group sales, etc. all successfully continued to operate around the construction. Thank you to all for your patience and cooperation. Now that the physical portion of our Grow to Serve is nearly complete, we can more fully turn to where and how God is calling us to serve. Our facilities will no longer limit the ways we can fulfill God s mission for us. I m really excited about what 2017 will bring for St. Luke Union Church. Please continue your support and prayers for the Vision & Ministry Council as they continue to work for our church. The Holy Spirit is indeed alive within St. Luke Union Church as we care for and support each other and follow God s plan for us. Once again, thank you to all. Peace through Christ, Bob Hinthorn VMC Moderator

26 PERSONNEL REPORT The Personnel Committee members for 2016 were: Sharon Stille, Deb Moret, Ed Desmond, Stephanie Dehner, James Monroe, Dan Staver, Beth Harvey, Bob Hinthorn (Liaison from Vision & Ministry Council) and Andy Gifford. The Personnel Committee consists of six (6) active members selected by the church council. The Personnel Committee shall review church staff needs, job descriptions, position responsibilities and staff relationships. The committee acts as liaisons to staff, reviews performance of non-ordained staff, participates in the budget process by suggested salary changes, assists in the updating of job descriptions as needed, conducts volunteer screenings/background checks and gives input about potential new-hires as requested. In December Ordained and Non-Ordained staff reviews were completed. Ordained Staff Non-Ordained Staff Rev Dr. Andrew J. Gifford Head of Staff Jessie Cavitt Administrative Assistant David Sulzberger Choir Director/Organist/Bell Choir Director Rick Isaacson Custodian Beth Harvey Christian Education Coordinator

27 RESOURCE MINISTRY TEAM The Resource Ministry Team's responsibilities include matters relating to finance, building and grounds team members were: Rev. Dr. Andrew Gifford, Sue Boerner, Bob Hinthorn, Penny Kellogg, Chuck Parlette and Gwen Yurieci. Team members are responsible for identifying building and equipment issues and seeing that they are resolved either through the efforts of members or hiring an outside firm. In 2016, we contracted with Sulaski & Webb, CPA to do an audit of the books as Terry Small turned over the responsibilities of treasurer to Sue Boerner. Penny Kellogg remained as Assistant Treasurer. We also provided year-end statements to donors and Tom Anderson was trained to conduct bank reconciliations. Pastor Andy negotiated a new contract with Frontier that will save us approximately $ per year. Kimm Smith, Accountant, with S.O.L. Financial was retained to handle the payroll obligations of the church. General maintenance items were handled, including faucet and wax ring replacement to plumbing. Also patches were made to the roof and the carpets were cleaned following the spring group sale. A fall workday was planned that included cleaning in the new kitchen, getting the planter box ready for use and tidying up and general clean-up of the grounds. A new computer was purchased for Jessie's office and her old computer was moved to the outer office. A work table was added to that area to provide counter space for anyone using that computer. We looked at options to improve the phone system, including adding the dedicated line for the elevator, and to increase internet speeds. This led us to change our system from Frontier to Comcast.

28 STEWARDSHIP The mission of the Stewardship Team is to engender stewardship as a way of life within our church community, a way of thanking God for all His blessings. To deepen our relationship with the Lord by encouraging intentional, planned and proportionate giving of our time, talent and treasure as a response to time, talent and treasure allotted to us. We see the importance of the overall mission of the church being affirmed by our membership as we see a transition of those who give consistently without pledging becoming pledgers. This tells us, that while they have always given thankfully, they now know that we are headed in the right direction and want to help us plan effectively to continue our mission and our thanks. In 2016 we planned a budget that spent more than we actually received from giving and income. After looking at the results of our pledge drive for 2017 and the funds needed for St. Luke Union to continue our ministry, a subsidized budget may again be necessary. Excluding the building project, the budgets requested by the various ministry teams and projected operating expenses exceed 2017 planned giving nearly $25,000. This is before the Vision & Ministry Council drafts the final budget. Together with the Vision & Ministry Council and all other ministries we will strive to achieve a balanced year end that does not draw from reserves by tightening our belt without sacrificing quality of programs, mission or ministry. Brian Trower Stewardship

29 WORSHIP MINISTRY TEAM Mission Statement: The Worship Ministry Team helps the community celebrate God s blessings by using our individual gifts for worship. Our lives become an expression of worship, enabling us to carry the good news of God s abundant love and grace to all those with whom we have contact. The Worship Ministry Team is responsible for the planning of worship at St. Luke Union Church. The duties of the team include: Preparation for worship services, sanctuary supplies, communion, development of alternative services and special services, funeral set-up, pulpit supply, music ministry, sound system and recording of services, weddings, and decorating the sanctuary. When planning worship services and programs for special programs or events, representatives from other teams are included as appropriate Worship Ministry Team Members include: Pastor Andy Gifford, Lin Walton, David Sulzberger, Music Director, Yvonne Harrison, Karlene Bledsoe, Vision & Ministry Council Liaison. Accomplished in 2016: Prepared the sanctuary throughout the liturgical year Prepared communion each first Sunday of the month and special services Started an Elders communion to shut-ins Ministry. Purchased 3 communion kits for Elders to take communion to shut-ins. Pastor Andy provided liturgy and instructions. Received donation of a portable sound system for the lower level Purchased 2 new microphones for new sound system 2017 Wish List: Need 7 more choir chairs, approximate cost $200 each Replace 8 brown chairs at the back of the sanctuary Confidence screen for the back of the sanctuary Information screen for Fellowship Hall Replace computer for sound board

30 WOMEN S FELLOWSHIP Women's Fellowship is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA) (Presbyterian Women) and the United Church of Christ. All women of the church, and any women of the community who show interest in strengthening the program of the women of St. Luke Union Church are members. St. Luke Union Women's Fellowship 2016 officers were: Penny Kellogg, President; Lin Walton, Vice President, Becky Blum, Secretary; Marsha Hinthorn, Treasurer, and Yvonne Harrison, Lamplighter Representative. We are in need of a representative from Home Bible. We pledge equal quarterly donations to Presbyterian Women and United Church of Christ Mission projects. Funds to Presbyterian Women go to support causes of the Presbyterian Women. Funds to UCC are designated quarterly by the board. This year's quarterly donations included Back Bay Mission, Pilgrim Park and Louisiana flood relief. The 4 th quarter donation went to Dr. Robert Dean, who gave the presentation at the Fall Rally. Those funds will be used in the mission to build schools in the slums in Kenya. The Women's Fellowship board meets four times per year or when necessary. The women host the following special fellowship events planned for the women of the church: Spring Brunch, Mother-Daughter Banquet, Fall Rally and the Christmas Dinner. In 2016, with the Kitchen Committee, we also hosted a Kitchen Shower to help stock the new kitchen. We also donated the funds to purchase one of the dish cabinets. Women are invited to join Home Bible Class and/or Lamplighter's Circle. Both groups are affiliated with Women's Fellowship. Home Bible Class meets the second Thursday of each month except for January and February, weather permitting. Lamplighter's Circle meets the fourth Tuesday of each month. Both groups meet for Bible study and fellowship. Mission Projects supported by these two groups are: Western Avenue Community Center, Adopt-a-Family, Safe Harbor, and Home Sweet Home Ministries. We would like to thank all of you who donated to Adopt-a-Family. Because of the generosity of this church, we were not only able to gift our family, but we had duplicates that could be given to another family in need this Christmas. Doesn't that say a lot about our wonderful, little church family? A Women's Retreat was held at Pilgrim Park April 22 nd, 23 rd and 24 th. Thanks to Karlene Bledsoe for planning and to Norma Roberts for serving as the Retreat leader. Officers for 2016 are: Penny Kellogg, President, Lin Walton, Vice President, Becky Blum, Secretary, and Marsha Hinthorn, Treasurer. Thanks for everyone for the continued support of the St. Luke Union Women's Fellowship Gatherings and Mission Giving. Please consider joining us we have a lot of fun and laughs as we try to do God's work!

31 GREEN TEAM Green Team is an informal group of people interested in recycle and renewable energy projects. We do not meet at regular times. We do meet when a situation arises. We have made suggestions to better organize the recycle area and to improve security there. Members are: Amie Keeton, Glenn & Sharon Stille and Chuck Parlette. ~ Chuck Parlette

32 NOMINATING COMMITTEE The nominating committee had filled all the positions required of them for the coming year. Below is a list of who will be filling the open positions: Marcia Nagy Nominating Committee Charlene Beringer Nominating Committee Laura Hinthorn Personal Committee Rod Hawkins Personal Committee Nicole Southwick Council Jeremy Rambo Council Linda Weirman Council Ed Proctor Council Thank you, Dede Verplaetse Marsha Hinthorn John Boerner Dick Harrison