Hope United Church 3055 Connaught Ave., Halifax, NS, B3L 3A

Transcription

1 Hope United Church a union of Edgewood United, Oxford Street United and United Memorial Church Annual Meeting: March 4 th, 2018 Hope United Church 3055 Connaught Ave., Halifax, NS, B3L 3A office@hopeunitedchurch.ca 1

2 Annual Reports Table of Contents Page Minister s Message 3 Ministry to Children, Youth & Families 4 Minutes: February 12, AGM, March 19, July 9, Church Board 12 Worship Christian Life & Growth (CL&G) Mission & Outreach (M&O) Music Ministry 19 United Church Women (UCW) Quilters 21 Pastoral Care 22 Ministry & Personnel (M&P) 23 Statistics 24 Trustees & Property 25 Financial Statement/Budget Addendum 2

3 Minister s Message Although I ve been with you only a few short months I think it s safe to say that Hope and I have a lot in common. For example: We ve both been through a lot of change this past year. Hope has been adjusting to being a newly amalgamated congregation while I ve been adjusting to my new life here at Hope. Hope has had to say goodbye to a beloved minister while I ve had to say goodbye to a beloved congregation. You ve been getting acquainted with your new youth and young families minister while I ve been getting reacquainted with Halifax. The bottom line is: it s been an incredibly anxious and exciting year for all of us as we went through so much change together, but now that we are together I think things have been going remarkably well. First, I want to thank everyone here at Hope for making me feel so welcome. I was truly touched by your deep compassion for the situation my family and I found ourselves in as we tried to sell our home in Quispamsis. I was very grateful for the opportunity to nip back on occasion and, when the time came for us to move, the number of people who volunteered to help was simply overwhelming - not to mention the lovely gift basket you gave us! Thank you so very much! I also think we did a pretty good job of getting to know each other on the fly as Advent was on us before my first three weeks were up. I want to say a huge thank you to Nancy, Karen, Mat, Barb, and Rafael who quickly got me up to speed on worship and to the Pastoral Care Team for getting me out and visiting right away. I d also like to say thank you for all the feedback I ve gotten. It s always a tricky business trying to wed two different styles of worship in a way that speaks to all of us, but with your honesty and willingness to share, I m sure we ll be there in no time! Which is a good thing because there s so much going on here! We have our visiting ministry, our outreach ministry, our music ministry, Wing Night, youth group, play group, seniors club, quilting club, men s breakfast and Friday Night Thing, just to name a few. There s hardly enough hours in the day to keep up with it all, but it s awfully fun to try. And that gives me a great deal of hope (if you ll pardon the pun) for the future. Because I believe we have a bright future here ahead of us, and the people and passion to make it happen. All we need is to decide what future we want and to grab hold of it with both hands. There s no telling what we might accomplish if we put our minds to it and I m excited to find out where tomorrow takes us. Blessings, Rev. Sean 3

4 Ministry to Children, Youth and Families Let me begin by saying what an honour and true privilege it is to work with Hope United Church. Our children, youth and families are a true blessing to this church and this very important ministry. In 2017, I have been focused on offering new opportunities for these folks to gather. Whether that s through Wing Night, PD Day Camps, Parent and Tot group, Movie Nights or Friday Night Things. My goal is to reach out to those who attend church and those who don t, and find a way to let them know that there is community of people who cares for them. I truly believe that church is not about the building, it s about the people who make up those within the community of faith. And specifically, it s not just about the people who come on Sunday morning, it s about all of Christ s people no matter what stage of your life you are in. I know that we all have different visions for what church is. That s what makes our United Church the church that it is. We are a church with a rich, progressive and continuing history of welcoming all in the name of Christ. Whether you are three years old, thirty years old or ninety-three years old, we all have a lot to offer. We have a responsibility to inspire each other and to teach each other. Teaching each other ancient stories of Jesus but also how to be good people, how we can be loving, kind and simply put, how we can be Christ-like in our daily living. Church is about giving tools for our toolboxes, to give us a place where we can help each other on life s great journey for when things are good AND when things get sticky and rough. You, the people who make up this community, are a group of life-giving people who love to learn about each other and build each other up when we fall and listen to one another. I have witnessed that in my everyday work. All in all, I feel that we are on the right trajectory to grow and to continue to provide a valuable ministry for our children, youth and families. I m looking forward to the coming year to learn from, listen to, love, teach, inspire each of you whether you re three, thirty-three or ninety-three. Take care, Mat Whynott Minister of Children, Youth & Families 4

5 Hope United Church Congregational Meeting Minutes: JNAC Report February 12, 2017 Meeting was called to order by Kathy McKay at 11:40am Ken Grandmaison opened the meeting with a prayer. Congregation was given an overview of the JNAC process by Kathy McKay. Quorum was reached with more than 20 congregation members in attendance. The congregation agreed that voting would be done by show of hands. The JNAC Committee members were introduced to the congregation by Ken Grandmaison. Presentation of the JNAC report was done by Ken Grandmaison. This report took a lot of work to put together and included the information we received from the congregational survey. A special thanks to Paul Verboom and Nancy Nelson for their work on the report. Motion - I move that the Hope United Church Congregation accept the Joint Needs Assessment Committee Report, recommends it to Halifax Presbytery for approval and that the Joint Needs Assessment Committee be disbanded with our thanks once Presbytery approval is given. Moved by: Chris Trenaman Seconded by: Nancy Wells Questions and Comments from the congregation: Nancy Wells indicated that she enjoyed reading the report and looking back at the journey of the congregation. Motion carried Motion - I move that the Hope United Church Congregation request Halifax Presbytery to declare a vacancy for a full-time Ordained Minister, effective immediately. Moved by: Melissa Riley Seconded by: Helen Craig Motion Carried Motion: I move that Hope United Church Congregation requests Halifax Presbytery to set up a Joint Search Committee. Moved by: Bob Hayter Seconded by: Brenda Ruggles Motion carried Kathy McKay explained that the JNAC report now goes to pastoral relations and once it is approved, it will be posted by Maritime Conference. If you are interested in joining the Search Committee, please give your name to the secretary of the Board, Bev Dauphinee. The Board will be picking the committee members. Members of the committee cannot be employees or related to employees of the church. The Joint Search Committee will be responsible for developing interview questions, setting up and doing interviews, as well as checking references. The committee is responsible for bringing candidate recommendations to the congregation. Meeting was adjourned at 11:55am 5

6 MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING HOPE UNITED CHURCH Sunday, March 19, 2017 Appointment of Chairperson and Secretary The Reverend Bob Chapman called those present to order and offered a prayer. He then called for nominations to fill the positions of Chairperson and Secretary for the meeting. Barbara Baker was elected to the position of Chairperson and Ken Grandmaison as Secretary. Constitution of the Meeting Barb Baker constituted the meeting in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ at 1220 and the Christ Candle was lit. The meeting was held in the church hall. There were 64 members/adherents present when 11 regrets. The list of attendees and regrets is listed at appendix A. Prayer and a time to Remember Rev. Chapman offered a Prayer of Remembrance and Karen Dockerill read the names of the church members and adherents who had passed away since our last annual meeting. They were: John Arthur Hoyt, Elizabeth Fahie, Lindsey Shaw, Helen LeGuff, Harold Stewart, Gary Ashton, Eugenie MacLeod, Roger Gentleman Kenneth Holmes and Ronald Grieve. Consideration and Adoption of the Agenda Moved by: Janet Ward that the agenda be accepted. Seconded by: Fred MacNaughton. Motion: Carried. Voting Privileges Moved by: Karen Dockerill that voting privileges be extended to adherents in attendance at the meeting. Seconded by: Barbara Pate. Motion: Carried. Consideration of the Minutes Moved by: Clint Riley that the minutes of the United Memorial Church, Edgewood-Oxford Church and Hope United be considered together. Seconded by: Laurie Naugler. Motion: Carried. Adoption of the Minutes Moved by: Joan MacNaughton that there being no errors or omissions the minutes be adopted. Seconded by: Bob Hayter. Motion: Carried. 6

7 Business Arising from the Minutes Chairperson Barbara Baker reported that the Emergency Evacuation Plan for Hope United Church noted at last year s meeting has yet to implemented. The evacuation plan is being handled by the Property Committee. Maurice Hickey asked why Rev. David Hann left Hope United Church. He was informed that Rev. David s departure was at his request and in accordance with United Church policy. Rev. David felt the call of God to go to Bermuda because they were without a minister and there was much work to be done there Acceptance of Committee Reports Moved by: Fred MacNaughton that all committee report be accepted together. Seconded by: Helga Budden. Motion: Carried. Adoption of Committee Reports The chair of each committee was given the opportunity to answer any questions from those present about their report. Bruce MacDonald had a question for the Trustees about the church lighting that was completed last year. He was informed that because of other events the lighting report is not yet finalized and it is intended to deal with the matter at the next Board meeting in April. Also, it should be noted that Bruce was asked previously to submit his question about the lighting via to Trustees Chairperson Barbara Baker. Brenda Butler expressed concern about the operation of the sound and video systems in the church and suggested that perhaps a technical committee should be established and be responsible for their operation. This too will be taken to the Board meeting in April. Moved by: Fred Oxner that committee reports be accepted as presented. Seconded by: Tony Pilling. Motion: Carried. Joint Search Committee It was reported that we are waiting for Halifax Presbytery to approve our Joint Needs Assessment Committee Report and to declare a vacancy at Hope United Church. Then Presbytery needs to identify two Presbytery representatives to serve on our Search Committee. Once that has been done then we can begin the process of hiring a new ordained minister. Our Church Board approved the following member to serve on the committee: Barbara Baker, Karen Dockerill, Ken Grandmaison, Cyril Hann, Nancy Hayter, Brenda Ruggles and Chris Trenaman. The selection was made from a list of those who volunteered their names. The makeup of the committee considers gender, age and committee experience within our pastoral charge. Financial Report Ian Nason gave a very positive accounting of Hope United Church s financial affairs. He reviewed all areas of a detailed financial statement from Porter Hetu International that reported assets of $2,605, an increase of $419, over the previous year. This increase was primarily from the revenue received from the amalgamation with United Memorial Church and the sale of their church building. Moved by: Ian Nason that the financial report for the year ending December 31, 2016 be accepted. Seconded by: Marion Stairs. Motion: Carried. 7

8 2017 Revenue and Expense Budget Ian Nason presented a recommended budget for the calendar year It is a balanced budget with revenue and expenses of $237, The various categories of the budget were reviewed. It was noted that an extra expense might be incurred if the Joint Search Committee requires funds for its expenses. Moved by: Ian Nason that the recommended budget be approved. Seconded by: Fred Oxner. Motion: Carried. Thank You from the Chairperson Barbara Baker offered heart felt thanks to the following: a. All committee members. For their hard work and dedication to the committee that they serve on. Without their work our church would not be what it is today. b. Nancy Nelson. There are a lot of church office administrators around and there is none better than Nancy. Her superior work ethic, job knowledge, organizational skills, willingness to help and pleasant personality make her an invaluable asset of our church. c. Rev. Bob Chapman. In our time of need God blessed us with him. His gift of spiritual leadership as an interim minister has brightened our days and added joy to our lives. Motion to Adjourn There being no further business the Chairperson called for a motion to adjourn at Moved by: Sue Hawkes Seconded by: David O Riley. Motion: Carried. Benediction Rev. Bob Chapman closed the meeting with a benediction and the Christ Candle was extinguished. Barbara Baker Chairperson Ken Grandmaison Secretary 8

9 Appendix A Hope United Church Annual Congregational Meeting Sunday March 19, 2017 Those in attendance: Rev. Bob Chapman Rev. Diane MacVicar Rafael Alcolado Diane Ashton Barbara Baker Irene Beeler Phil Beeler Helga Budden Brenda Butler Donna Chambers Jean Chapman Lot Cossar Sheila Cossar Bill Craig Helen Craig Elaine Craven Dee Crawley Tom Creighton Michael Cullen Elizabeth Dekker Karen Dockerill Vernon Egle Norma Ferguson Judy Ferguson Fran Fowler Betty Fraser Barbara Fulton Bonita Grandmaison Ken Grandmaison Bill Hale Muriel Hale Bob Hayter Sue Hawkes Ronald Paul Herold Maurice Hickey Barb Lewis Geoff Lewis Fred MacNaughton Joan MacNaughton Cheryl MacRae Donalda Mosher Cathy Nason Ian Nason Georgina Naugler Laurie Naugler David O Riley Margaret O Riley Barbara Oxner Fred Oxner Barbara Pate Phyllis Pettigrew Lorna Pilling Tony Pilling Dave Pineo Eleanor Plowman Greta Priest Margaret Reid Cint Riley Melissa Riley Phyllis Smith Ruth Todd Janet Ward Linda Watt Willard Watt Regrets: Louise Crossley Ron Dodge Annie Egle Edie Greene Nancy Hayter Marian Johnston Gail Logie Ian Logie Margaret Murray Nancy Wells Christine Wheaton 9

10 Hope United Church Congregational Meeting to Hear Report of JSC July 9, 2017 Meeting was called to Order at 11:35 am on July 9, 2017 by Kathy MacKay Opening Prayer by Nancy Hayter. An overview of how meeting will proceed was given by Kathy Mackay, it was stated that only members can vote and that they would be voting on the recommendation of the Search Committee. The Congregation was asked if they wanted a secret ballot or show of hands, it was requested by several members that it be by secret ballot. Hope United required a Quorum of 20 members for the motion to be carried. An was read by Kathy MacKay from Karen Dockerill sending her regrets but that she fully supports the JSC for commendation for Minister. Report of Joint Search Committee was presented by Barb Baker Chair of the Committee, see attached. The Search Committee consisted of Barb Baker (Chair), Brenda Ruggles (Secretary), Ken Grandmaison, Chris Trenaman, Nancy Hayter, Karen Dockerill along with two Presbytery reps Lesley Griffiths and Kathy MacKay. Barb Baker outlined the salary, which is in accordance with the United Church of Canada Policy. Rev Sean is classified in Group 3 with a starting salary $57, % Continuing Education $ 1, per annum Phone $ 1, per annum Total $66, Motion to call I, Barb Baker, move that Hope United Church accept the Joint Search Committee s recommendation to call the Rev Sean Handcock to Full time Ordained Ministry (category E-3) effective October 30 th, 2017 with terms and conditions as noted on the PR450. This call is the pending approval of the terms and conditions by Halifax Presbytery. Seconded by Bev Dauphinee. Motion Carried Questions from Congregation: Joan MacNaughton asked if Housing Allowance was included in the Salary. Barb explained that there is no longer a separate housing allowance. The United Church of Canada now uses a New Compensation Model that combines salary and housing. Barb asked for two volunteers to count the ballots, Barb Pate and Becky Campbell volunteered. 10

11 Results of Vote: A majority vote for the call of Rev Sean Handcock as the new Ministry of Hope United Church effective October 30, Bev Dauphinee thanked the committee for all their hard work. Kathy explained that the JSC will be disbanded once Halifax Presbytery has approved the call. Meeting was adjourned at 12:05 pm, July 9, Respectfully submitted by Brenda Ruggles Joint Search Committee Secretary Hope United Church Congregational Meeting 9 July 2017 Attendance Roll Members of Hope United Church recorded in the Historic Roll Book: Rafael Aloclado, Bill Hale, Muriel Hale, Phil Beeler, Irene Beeler, Janet Ward, Iris Williams, Patricia Kirk, Norma Ferguson, Doris Morris, Rebecca Campbell, Paula Keating, Kathy Morris, Laurie Naugler, Georgina Naugler, Elizabeth Wambolt, Fred MacNaughton, Joan MacNaughton, Don Conrod, Phyllis Smith, Cheryl MacRea, Angela Pineo Blue, Brenda Butler, Margaret Reid, Diane Cairns, Irma Vaughan, Jean James, Graham James, Donna Chambers, Nancy Wells, Diane Ashton, Elizabeth Dekker, Elaine Jarvis, Bonita Grandmaison, Thomas Creighton, Willard Watt, Linda Watt, Brad Ruggles, Ronald Paul Herold, Margaret Murray, Bill Craig, Helen Craig, Bev Dauphinee, Carol Carnell, Paula Barrett, Ruth Tod, Greta Priest, Richard Varner, Eleanor Plowman, Brian Bauld, Sandra Bauld, Barbara Fulton, Dee Crawley, Beryl Publicover, Edie Greene, Mike Cullen, Wendell Simmons, Bob Hayter, Barbara Pate, Margaret MacLean, Bruce MacDonald, Carolyn McDiarmid, Paul Verboom, Mary Morrison, Barbara Baker, Nancy Hayter, Brenda Ruggles and Ken Grandmaison. Adherents of Hope United Church: Mat Whynott, Shirley Conrad, Keith Wambolt, Scott Blue, Eileen Woods, Doug Jarvis, Fred Oxner, Barbara Oxner, Tony Pilling, Ralph Conrad, Brenda James, David Carnell, Edison Taylor, Jane Jeffrey, Sandy Archibald, Allan McDiarmid, Craig Mutch, Sarah Mutch, Trevor Simmons, Geoff Lewis, Barb Lewis, Mary Smith, and Sandra Fenn. Halifax Presbytery: Kathy MacKay (Pastoral Relations Meeting Chair), Rev. James Forbes, Rev. Carolyn Palmer and Rev. Diane MacVicar. 11

12 Church Board For the Church Board, as for the congregation of Hope United, 2017 was a year of transition. We greatly appreciated the leadership and spiritual guidance of Rev. Bob Chapman, who wisely and gently smoothed our path as we moved from the sadness of saying goodbye to Rev. David Hann to the joy of welcoming Rev. Sean Handcock. Board members are very grateful to Rev. Chapman for his dedication, sense of humour and never-failing faith in the future of Hope and to Mat Whynott for his leadership and support during this time of transition. In carrying out its duties to administer the business of the church and provide support for its committees, the Board held eight regular meetings during the year, with an average attendance of 17; as well as one special meeting in January to receive the report of the Joint Needs Assessment Committee and approve the JNAC s recommendation that the Board and congregation ask Halifax Presbytery to declare a vacancy for a full-time ordained minister at Hope United. The approval of the JNAC report and the ensuing work of the Joint Search Committee began our congregation s journey toward welcoming Rev. Sean as our new minister in November. The Board would like to thank the members of the Joint Needs Assessment Committee and the Joint Search Committee for their efforts. At meetings throughout the year, Board members discussed and voted on five remits approved by the 42 nd General Council of the United Church of Canada and submitted to the governing bodies of pastoral charges and presbyteries across Canada for consideration. Three other remits were considered by presbyteries only. The remits, if approved by an absolute majority of pastoral charges and presbyteries, will bring about substantive changes to the United Church of Canada s Basis of Union. Hope s Church Board approved the five remits submitted to pastoral charges: Remit 1) changing the structure of the UCC from a four-court system to a three-court model; Remit 2) eliminating the process of transfer and settlement for members of the order of ministry; Remit 3) establishing a denominational office of vocation in the structure of the United Church; Remit 4) funding a new model; and Remit 6) creating one order of ministry. The remits will go to the 43 rd General Council for approval this year. The Board and congregation of Hope United are blessed to have very active committees, whose dedicated members do an amazing job to enrich the life of our church and community. It is the Board s responsibility to support and approve, as needed, the work of the committees. The Board would like to thank all the committees, members of the congregation and church staff for their help and support during We look forward to another productive and fulfilling year as we continue the journey we began last fall with Rev. Sean. Respectfully submitted, Bev Dauphinee Secretary, Hope United Church Board 12

13 Worship Committee 2017 has been a year of transition and change for Hope United as we began our work as a Joint Needs Assessment Committee to produce a report and subsequently struck a Joint Search Committee to call a new full-time minister to Hope United. These two committees worked hard and with great care to find a suitable candidate to present to the congregation for their vote. While this work was being done, we were fortunate to have Rev. Bob Chapman and his wife, Jean, as our part-time ministerial coverage. We enjoyed getting to know Bob and Jean and to share worship services and other aspects of church work with them. During the summer months we had several congregational members who offered their time and talents to provide Sunday morning worship and we sincerely thank Bill and Muriel Hale, Mat Whynott, Helen and Bill Craig, the GO Project and Diana Ginn. Toward the end of the summer, the Search Committee completed their work and we called Rev. Sean Handcock as our full-time minister. Rev. Sean started his work with us October 1 st and things are moving along as expected. It has been a challenging time for the Handcock family as they worked to sell their home and move to the Halifax area. As I write this report on this snowy January day, their furniture is on its way from New Brunswick and they have taken up residence in their home in Tantallon. The Pastoral Care Committee has been an important liaison with Rev. Sean as he gets to know the people who are unable to get to church each Sunday, and he has been making many home visits with members of that committee. We thank them all for the hard work they do to keep in touch with those who cannot get out as frequently as they would like. This committee is an essential support for any minister and carries a heavy workload. We thank our office administrator, Nancy Nelson, who played an even more important role this year. Nancy kept everything in line as we went through this transition period with many people coming and going and depending on her for answers to things with which they were unfamiliar. The Worship Committee did their planning for worship services in December and June, and once again this proved to be a valuable guide for those taking on the ministry role as they got used to our worship life. Our choir under the direction of our musical director, Barb Pate, our organist Rafael Alcolado, and percussionist Brad Ruggles meet on a weekly basis to master the music they share with us each week. We are enjoying a wonderful choir of dedicated and faithful members. We thank each and every one of you for bringing such a wonderful selection of musical pieces to enhance our worship each Sunday. We are fortunate to continue to have Mat Whynott as our Designated Minister of Children, Youth and Families. Mat has provided an increased presence in the pulpit this year while continuing to work with our youth and teachers in the Sunday School Program. Mat also prepares the overhead slides each week. These contain our order of service and include wonderful visual enhancements to add an extra level of enjoyment to our services. Fellowship time continues to be an important component to our church life and a great opportunity to get to talk to and get acquainted with fellow members of our faith community. We encourage people to continue to contribute and host along with other members of the congregation. 13

14 For all those who were greeters, lift operators, sound technicians, announcement people, communion servers and those who participated in many different ways in worship, a special thank you. For anyone who has prepared a service for us, they have commented on how much work goes into that one-hour service each Sunday morning. We thank Paul Verboom for his technical support and for his hard work and dedication in keeping all the technology in our office and our church in general in good working order. The audio visual component has added a significant element to this work, and we thank Paul and each of those who worked with him setting up this equipment so that we may enjoy the fruits of their labor. We thank Kathy Morris for helping with bulletin production each Friday. To Eleanor Plowman, Judy Ferguson and Richard Varner who faithfully prepare the communion elements each month, a big thank you. We had a number of baptisms, membership transfers and weddings this year and the names will be listed in the statistics section of the Annual Report. We welcome all those who have joined us in worship, and encourage you to become involved in the life and work of the church in areas that are of interest to you. On the second and fourth Sundays of each month in the afternoon the Hoyt Room is used by the Atlantic Ministry to the Deaf to conduct their worship services. I want to say a special thank you to the members of the Worship Committee for the hard work and support they give to me as chair. There are many different duties to carry out on this committee during the year, and they are ready and willing to do whatever is necessary to get the work done. The members of the committee during the past year are Eleanor Plowman, Judy Ferguson, Phyllis Smith, Margaret Murray, Brenda Ruggles, Nancy Hayter, Richard Varner, Rev. Chapman, Rev. Handcock and myself. Eleanor and Richard will finish their term with us the end of January and we will be looking for two new members. If you are interested in joining our committee please speak to one of us or to the nominating chair, Bev. Dauphinee. We are an open and transparent committee and welcome your input and any concerns that you might have at any time. We look forward to continuing to work diligently on your behalf to bring uplifting, meaningful and faith-filled worship for you each and every Sunday. Sincerely Submitted, Karen Dockerill Chair of Worship Committee 14

15 Christian Life & Growth Committee The ministry and responsibility of the Christian Life and Growth Committee (CL&G) of Hope United Church is to encourage and inspire spiritual growth and fellowship for the congregation of Hope United and to reach out and connect with our neighboring community as well. The initiatives and activities supported by the Committee include bible studies/explorations, all-age services, congregational fellowship events and special projects. The CL&G oversees and supports the leadership of our Congregational Designated Minister Mat Whynot and Sunday School Superintendent Melissa Riley. Committee meetings continued to be held on the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Members are Kim Gerrior, Brenda James, Peggy MacLean, Bud Malay, Melissa Riley, Shawna Simmons, Shanna Trenaman, Mat Whynot and myself - Cathy Nason (Chair). The initiatives and activities of the CL&G for 2017 include: All-age Services February 12 th May 14 th Camping Sunday and Christian Family Sunday. June 11 th Sunday school closing. The Sunday School donated one of the two shrubs to be planted next to the benches on the Connaught Ave. side of the church. The children and congregation gathered outside after the service to plant the shrub. September 10 th Welcome Back Sunday. November 12 th Reverend Sean s first Sunday at Hope United December 17 th Children and youth Christmas Pageant. Fellowship Events January 24 th, April 4 th, September 26 th and November 14 th Wing nights at the Lion s Head Pub 5:00 7:30P.M. January 27 TH, April 7 th and September 29th Movie nights in the Church Hall. Everyone enjoyed popcorn and candies. June 9 th The Sunday School children had a sleepover in the Church hall. They had fun enjoying snacks, a movie, hide-and-seek and crafts. A few members of our Committee made breakfast for the children and parents Saturday morning. June 11 th Ice cream social following the Sunday School closing service and the Shrub planting. September 10 th Welcome back Sunday BBQ in the Church parking lot after the service. October 29 th Trunk or Treat in the Church parking lot. Several car trunks were decorated and children dressed up in Halloween costumes went to each car trunk to receive treats. Hotdogs and hot chocolate were served in the Church parking lot after the children received their treats. December 17 th Soup luncheon following the children and youth Christmas pageant. Throughout the year the Committee hosted some fellowship hours after Sunday services. 15

16 Other Activities and Projects March 19 th - The CL&G Committee provided soup luncheon for the congregational annual meeting. Food Bank Projects: Lenten Kraft dinner collection with donations going to Parker St. and during Advent canned Christmas tree collection with donations going to Dalhousie food bank. Parent and Tot groups continued being offered in May and November. Parents and children were from our congregation and the community. October 27 th Hope United hosted a professional development day (PD) camp from 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. for elementary school children. The children enjoyed a fun day of games, crafts, songs and other activities. Delicious lunch and snacks were provided. A great outreach as most of the children were from outside our church community. The Committee offered $100 bursaries for children interested in attending Camp Kidston and Sherbrooke Lake United Church Camps during the summer. April 21 st and 22 nd - Hope United hosted Maritime Conference s Youth Forum at Conference Committee. The CL&G Committee provided lunch for the Committee on Saturday. In appreciation of our wonderful Sunday School and Youth Group leaders and helpers the congregation was again invited to give donations of gift cards for Sunday School snack food and supplies or to make a donation to the Hope United Christian Education Fund. 10 days in July Hope United hosted the United Church Go project. Our church provided space in the Church Hall for the group to stay while they were here. Members of our congregation were very gracious in helping where needed during their stay. December 3 rd We celebrated White Gift Sunday. The congregation made donations of books that were given to the IWK Child Life Services. I would like to thank and express my sincere gratitude to the committed members of the CL&G Committee for another fulfilling year of supporting the Christian life of Hope. With God s continued guidance and wisdom we look forward to the year ahead, faithfully committed to the ministry of Hope United Church. If there is anything other than what the Committee offers that would interest you and further enrich your spiritual growth please make it know to us. Respectfully submitted, Cathy Nason Chair, Christian Life and Growth Committee 16

17 Mission and Outreach (M&O) "As is tradition in January, we celebrate the strength, diversity, ingenuity, leadership and success of our business community." I quote this line from an article by Mark Fraser which I read recently in the local newspaper. This article made me think of what I might write in the annual report for Mission and Outreach. While we are not a business, we are 'in the business' of carrying God's love and presence and grace outside the walls of our church building. As I write this report, it is my intent to uplift the work of the Mission and Outreach Committee and to celebrate the 'strength, diversity and ingenuity' and the impact of Hope United in the wider community. There are several projects that are traditional favorites of this congregation and have been continued and repeated for many years. All of them make a significant impact on those people in our city who cope daily with the effects of severe poverty and the oppression that it brings. For the record, I will list these in point form; for anyone who is new to our congregation, I would be happy to provide more details about the organizations named and how each supports those at risk in our community. 1. We filled 40 Christmas stockings for Metro Turning Point men's shelter. 2. We filled 25 stockings for the Stepping Stone Children's Christmas party. 3. We provided casseroles for Hope Cottage seven times throughout That translates into approximately 800 evening meals for those who are hungry. 4. We provided one weeks' worth of nutritious snacks for the youth at Phoenix House. 5. We prepared and served breakfast on two Saturday mornings at Brunswick Street Mission. 6. We made monthly donations of food items to the Ward 5 Food Bank on Russell Street. Many thanks to Gail Logie and Diane Cairns for taking care of our 'Little Red Wagon', which is located in the narthex. 7. We collected toiletries for the Elizabeth Fry Society and the Halifax AIDS Coalition. 8. We prepared and delivered 21 Easter baskets to members of our congregation who can no longer join us for Sunday morning worship services. We are grateful for the help of the Pastoral Care team for making these visits; this connection with our shut-in friends is very meaningful for all. 9. We provided regular Minute for Mission stories in morning worship, reminding us of the importance of the Mission and Service work being done globally by the United Church of Canada. 10. In addition, during 2017, approximately $3,000 in financial support was provided to various charities through Hope United Mission & Outreach. This comprises my list of regular activities which take place each year. But wait, there's more! At each of our monthly meetings we pray for God's guidance, helping us to stretch our resources and God's presence even farther still. The following are some of the new initiatives we undertook in In February, Sister Jovita MacPherson was our guest speaker during morning worship. She is the coordinator of the Sisters of St. Martha's Street Ministry in Halifax. This was the beginning of a lovely liaison with her and the wonderful ministry she carries out at the street level with folks in need. We have continued to support her work through monetary donations during the year. She encouraged and assisted us in serving hot coffee to folks along Gottingen Street who welcomed a free coffee and a smile. 17

18 Also in February, with special thanks to Muriel Hale as team leader and organizer, we were enthusiastic participants in the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk. We successfully raised $4,772 for ARK Youth Centre. This is another organization that offers a safe haven for at risk youth who are struggling to find direction in their lives. Thank you for your overwhelming response in supporting our team for this endeavour. We were well represented at the Brunswick Street Mission Annual Charity Breakfast in October; I am proud to say that people from Hope United occupied a table of 10. It was at this breakfast that we learned about the Square Root Token Program. We have purchased some meal tokens for Rev. Sean, Sister Jovita and Glen Vye to distribute to those who are struggling and need a hot meal. Glen continues to quietly and graciously chat with people on the street who may need a listening ear and a cup of coffee! We support and thank Glen for his work in this meaningful street ministry. On October 15th the Mission & Outreach Committee was responsible for organizing and providing the morning worship service, lead by Muriel Hale. The theme for the service was 'Hunger in a World of Abundance', we were very pleased to welcome Steve Gordon as guest speaker from Feed Nova Scotia. Steve provided a hopeful and inspiring message as we celebrated World Food Sunday. In December, we filled and delivered a trunk full of personal care items, bus tickets, and gift cards for Barry House, an emergency shelter for women and their dependent children. Our Prayer Shawl Ministry continues; many shawls have been given out in times of trouble or in times of celebration as a tangible way to offer love and prayers to the recipients. Thanks goes out to Diana Ginn who represents us on the Board of Brunswick Street Mission. The Mission offers so much; it is because of so many passionate people like Diana that its ministry is so widespread and effective. We also extend sincerest thanks to Brad Ruggles and his musical friends for initiating a regular bi-monthly 'Jam Session'...sharing time and talents with the fees being donated for the Hope United Mission & Outreach projects. As Chair, I am very grateful for the dedication and support from the Mission and Outreach Committee members. It is an absolute joy to work with you; as I have stated before, in my heart I believe we are a 'Dream Team' carrying out God's work that we have been called to do. 'Hugs all around'! Keep in mind, all of these outreach efforts were only made possible because of the extraordinary generosity and continued support of this wonderful church family we call 'Hope United'. I look forward to celebrating God's presence in all that we do together as a committee proudly representing the congregation of Hope United Church. Blessings to all, Janet Ward Chair, Mission and Outreach 18

19 Music Ministry The past year, 2017, was a good year for the choir as we welcomed new members Marilyn Taylor, Sabrina Dunphy and Eunji So (South Korea). However, we regret to report that we had to say goodbye to Melanie Verboom. The choir continues to practice each Wednesday evening from mid-september through to mid- May. Each practice is a fun and learning experience enjoyed by all. Choir members are: Barbara Pate (Director), Rafael Alcolado (Organist), Brad Ruggles (Percussionist) Sopranos: Helen Craig, Liz Dekker, Sabrina Dunphy, Bonita Grandmaison, Elaine Jarvis, Eunji So, Marion Stairs, Marilyn Taylor, Elizabeth Wambolt, Nancy Wells. Altos: Diane Ashton, Becky Campbell, Joan MacNaughton, Christine Ryan. Tenors: Tom Creighton, Richard Varner, Willy Watt. Basses: Bill Craig, Ken Grandmaison, Allan MaDiarmid, Dave Pineo. During the Sunday service the choir usually presents an anthem to complement the liturgy theme for the week s message. Other times a solo or duet may be sung. On one occasion during the year the men of the choir opened the Sunday service with song. For a summer get together, Bonita and Ken hosted a BBQ for the choir at their home. There was plenty of food and fun especially when Ken shared his Laundry Room Runoff. Because of a change in music director at Port Wallace United Church we did not do a combined Christmas Cantata. Plans are in the making to renew this practice and other initiatives for In spite of all of the enjoyment we experience at choir there is a somber side we are dealing with. Dave Pineo has had to take another leave of absence to deal with cancer that has returned. Our prayers go out for Dave and we all hope he will be able to return to the Bass section. Ken Grandmaison Chair, Choir Committee 19

20 United Church Women The Hope United Church Women once again enjoyed a busy year of fellowship, worship, business, and fun. During 2017, UCW members held six meetings, with an average attendance of 17, and enjoyed a Christmas potluck luncheon on Dec. 11. Members were saddened this year by the loss of Jean MacPherson, Edith MacAulay, Doreen Osborne, Christine Wheaton, Gwendolyn Daine, and Doreen Grieve. Our annual Christmas potluck luncheon was even more special than usual as roughly 40 women gathered with our new minister Rev. Sean Handcock and Mat Whynott for a great meal, followed by a carol sing led by Marian Johnston and accompanied by Nancy Nelson on piano. As always, we shared the Christmas spirit by bringing in an amazing array of gifts to distribute to Phoenix House and Adsum House. Our UCW members were active in Presbyterial events attending the following throughout the year: AGM, March 18; Spring Rally, May 29; Fall Rally, Oct. 23; and Least Coin Service, Oct. 16. Nancy Hayter and Marilyn Elliott are Hope United s representatives on the Inter-church Council (5 churches in North-end Halifax), keeping the participation of United Memorial Church alive. A number of Hope United members attended a Food Safety Course in the Spring. On June 4, we led our church s morning worship service. We also participated in the purchase of cabinets for the Parlour, with thanks to Ron Dauphinee for their installation, and in cleaning the plastic tables utilized in the hall. The UCW filled 22 Christmas gift bags for distribution and visitation to church members no longer able to travel out very much. We held several fundraising events throughout the year, including our annual Bring & Buy sale, which is always a lot of fun, especially with Marian Johnston acting as auctioneer. In April, we held a delicious soup luncheon. We again catered to a pre-christmas Retired Teachers dinner, as well as to a number of receptions throughout the year including a wedding reception in August and a birthday reception in October. The UCW provided bake tables at the flea markets held in May and November. These activities allowed us to financially support our own church, Brunswick Street Mission, Atlantic Ministry of the Deaf, and the Mission & Service Fund. In both February and November we gathered items for the IWK Layette Program. And thanks to the hard work of many talented people, our mitten tree was again full of mittens, gloves and scarves that were distributed to community groups. The UCW would like to thank our congregation members for their faithful support for our projects throughout the year. We would like to personally thank all the members of Hope UCW, and especially our executive members (listed below), for making 2017 such a success. Submitted by Marian Kelly, UCW Secretary on behalf of Bev Dauphinee and Nancy Hayter, UCW Co-Chairs 20

21 UCW Executive: Bev Dauphinee, Co-Chair (Business) Nancy Hayter, Co-Chair (Programs) Janet Ward, Vice-Chair Donna Chambers, Treasurer Marian Kelly, Recording Secretary Georgina Naugler, Kitchen Convenor Eleanor Plowman and Pat Nordin, Corresponding Secretaries (cards, etc.) Dee Crawley and Norma Ferguson, Fundraising Coordinators Janet Ward and Eleanor Plowman, Flower Coordinators UCW Financials Receipts Expenditures Balance (Dec 31/16) $ Hope United Church $ Offerings $ Mission & Service $ Bank Interest $.29 Brunswick St. Mission $ Projects $ Presbyterial UCW $ Misc. $ Ministry to the Deaf $ $ Misc. $ Outstanding Cheques ($ ) Balance (Dec 31/17) $ $ The Quilters The quilters meet every Friday morning at 9:30 am in the church parlour. This past year we lovingly made 24 quilts. The quilts of 2017 were distributed to Ronald MacDonald House, the IWK, the Cystic Fibrosis Clinic, Mount Hope Building of the Nova Scotia Hospital and the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre. We have lots of fun creating our treasures. Anyone is welcome to join us all skill levels accepted! Come join us in this wonderful ministry. Submitted by Janet Ward 21

22 Pastoral Care Committee The Pastoral Care Committee is a member of Hope United Church Board and the co-chairs are board members. The Committee was set up to assist the minister with visitations. Members meet on the third Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. In the Hoyt room. We held seven meetings in 2017.There are ten members on the committee and as we visit in the homes we are required to have a police check. Members made many visits in the homes of parishioners, at the hospital, care facilities, made phone calls and sent cards. Several times communion was served to those who wished to partake. In April we helped the Mission and Outreach committee deliver Easter baskets, and in December we helped the U.C.W. members deliver Christmas baskets. We also attended funerals of our parishioners that passed away. In June Glen Vye, Cathy Nason and Janet Ward met with Sister Jovita and took coffee to people on Gottingen Street. Glen often helps people in need that he meets on the street whether it s with a cup of coffee, a warm scarf or just a conversation. In August Gail and Diane and Rev. Chapman were pleased to be invited to Alice Moore s one hundredth birthday party. Diane Cairns sends get well, thinking of you and sympathy cards. Nancy Nelson keeps our visitation list up to date and often sits in on our meetings. Lois MacGregor, Pat Kirk and Bev Dauphinee resigned from the committee this year. Marilyn Taylor joined our committee in the fall. Members of the committee are: Diane Ashton co-chair, Bonita Grandmaison, Bill Hale, Muriel Hale, Gail Logie co-chair, Cathy Nason, Marilyn Taylor, Glen Vye, Janet Ward, Rev. Chapman until September, Rev. Handcock since November. Respectfully submitted, Gail Logie & Diane Ashton Co-chairs, Pastoral Care Committee 22

23 Ministry and Personnel Committee (M&P) Members: Bob Hayter (Chair), Clint Riley, Paula Barrett, Brenda Butler, and Mike Cullen The Committee met as required during 2017 to address workplace issues concerning staff or other members of the Hope community. At year end of 2016, the Committee was finalizing a review of remuneration levels for all lay staff. These recommendations were brought forth to the Board and subsequently passed by the Board. This year we were pleased to welcome our new caretaker, Kyle Hawkes and also our new minister, Reverend Sean Handcock. Our minister for youth and young families, Mat Whynot, became permanent part-time (20 hrs./week). The Committee is looking forward to continuing a close working relationship with our dedicated staff. Respectfully submitted, Bob Hayter Chair, M&P Committee 23

24 Statistics 2017 Removals: By Death (M=Member) 12 Stelios Ninos (M) January 18, 2017 Jean MacPherson (M) February 3, 2017 Ethel Chinn (M) February 9, 2017 Doreen Osborne (M) February 17, 2017 Carl Costwell February 22, 2017 Edith MacAulay March 11, 2017 Harry Baigent (M) March 12, 2017 Eric Smith (M) May 4, 2017 Geraldine Collins (M) May 15, 2017 Bob Whitman (M) June 13, 2017 Christine Wheaton (M) June 28, 2017 Earle Young June 27, 2017 Gwendolyn Daine (M) September 9, 2017 Ronald Dodge (M) September 26, 2017 Sydney Williams (M) November 7, 2017 Doreen Grieve December 28, 2017 By Transfer 4 Sheila Harris Elizabeth Wegg Ruth Matheson Helga Budden March 7, 2017 to Windsor United, Windsor, NS March 7, 2017 to St. Matthew s United, Calgary AB April 21, 2017 to Bethany United, Halifax, NS October 24, 2017 to Leaside United Church, Toronto, ON By Request 0 By Act of the Board 0 New Members: By Transfer 2 Geoff & Barbara Lewis October 24, 2017 from Fairview United By Confirmation 0 Baptisms: 1 Stevie Lynn MacDonald child of Deborah Hickey & Scott MacDonald June 25, 2017 Raymond Graeme Beauchamp child of Sarah Hayter & Adam Beauchamp October 22, 2017 Alexandra May Harrington child of Krista Harrington & Noah Morrone December 10, 2017 Carol Anne Young child of Jayne Young & Ryan Jackson December 10, 2017 Henry Gordon Young child of Jayne Young & Ryan Jackson December 10, 2017 Weddings: 3 Scott Covin & Gladys Mansfield Deborah Noël & Douglas Jagger Cassandra Brown & Mark Wentworth April 29, 2017 (Rev. Robert Chapman) June 17, 2017 (Rev. Robert Chapman) August 6, 2017 (Rev. Joy Noble) 24

25 Trustees and Property A full complement committee was established March Committee members: Barb Baker Chair Marion Stairs Secretary Bruce MacDonald Ian Logie Ron Dauphinee Tony Pilling Randy Hoyt Bob Hayter This is a new committee looking forward to an effective 2018 with lots of projects on their plate. The Property Committee falls under Trustees and their work is contained in this report. Implemented a cheque signing process being documented Some of the projects implemented in 2017: Removal of asbestos Elevator repair Exterior sign repair Repairs to drywall in kitchen ceiling Repairs to drywall in hall due to leak Parlor cabinets installed New contract for salting and snow removal Audio/Visual enhancement (screens & projectors) This committee is a work in progress as we are trying to determine the most effective way to move forward. Respectfully submitted Barb Baker Chair 25