St. John-Hill United Church of Christ Annual Report Prepared for the Annual Congregational Meeting February 25, 2018

Transcription

1 St. John-Hill United Church of Christ 2017 Annual Report Prepared for the Annual Congregational Meeting February 25, 2018

2 Table of Contents Page Pastor s Report to the Congregation...1 Hill Church Register...3 Consistory s Report to the Congregation Fund Activity Report Audited Account Balance Sheet /2018 Budget Development...12 Barto Trust...15 Rohrbach Trust...17 Christian Education Committee Report...19 Hill United Sunday School Financial Report...20 Soldiers Memorial Park Committee Report...22 Soldiers Memorial Park Financial Report...23 Women s Guild Report...24 Women s Guild Financial Report...25 Union Cemetery Board Report...26 Union Cemetery Financial Report...27 Board of Trustees Report...29 Music Department Report...30 Youth Group Financial Report...31 Missions Team Report /2017 Worship Attendance...33 Leadership Persons Annual Congregational Meeting Minutes 2/26/ Recent History of St. John-Hill U.C.C...40 Memorial Prayer...41 Pastor s of the Reformed Congregation...42

3 Pastor s Report to the Congregation Good day, here is my Annual Pastor s Report given to you, the St. John-Hill Congregation. I have divided my task into the catalogues of service. WEDDINGS - As pastor I have the great joy of officiating at the weddings of church members and members of the community at large. I have conducted wedding services: Wilhelm Roscher and Anne Connor December 9, 2017 Keith Weller and Megyn Stauffer October 21, 2017 Lugi Massa and Meghan Wagner August 26, 2017 Ryan Delp and Jordan Stauffer May 27, 2017 FUNERALS - As pastor I have the special opportunity to minister to families and individuals in times of loss. These ministries include planning the service, bereavement counsel, and pastoral care. I have presided over funeral services: Betty Miller October 3, 2017 Fern Schanely September 27,2017 Molly Benfield July 10, 2017 BAPTISMS - As pastor I have the splendid responsibility to preside over the sacraments of the church. While we share Holy Communion monthly and on special occasions, I also preside at the sacrament of Christian baptism. This is such a wonderful honor. I have officiated at baptisms: Brynn Wagner August 5, 2017 Juliana Weller March 19, 2017 Amy Anhalt June 25, 2017 VISITATIONS - As pastor my ministry extends beyond the walls and doors of the church visiting those who are ill, injured, or unable to share in worship on Sunday mornings. Visitation is such an important part of my relationship with our church family and friends. Times in visiting those in need helps build strong relationships that are a sharing in love and care. I have visited those who were in hospital, nursing home, or home bound. These visits have met with much appreciation from those I have visited. MISSION - As pastor I minister as a Christian in the larger community, locally and beyond our local outreach. As it is said, Think Globally and Act Locally. I participated in the Birdsboro Mission program this past summer. Our Conformation Class shared in a mission program giving away clothing, shoes, and blankets and towels to various charities. Our VBS reach out to our community and minister to Children. I participated each night and taught one of the Bible studies. WORSHIP - I enjoy leading worship with you each week. The time I take each week to prepare for worship is between eight and ten hours of study, prayer, writing and reading. I believe each week the Holy Spirit leads this study as well as the preaching itself. STANDING IN CHRISTIAN CHURCH (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) AND UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST - I attended a CCDOC conference gathering in Bethany, WV, and met with the regional minister (for WV and PA) who reinstated my standing which had been removed in communication error, Apr , I have kept my relationship with the CCDOC with the Marple Church congregation Marple Twp., PA, sharing in their Wednesday community meal and prayer time once a month. I have completed on the requirements for the U.C.C., except finishing the class on Polity. I am signed-up for the next class, in a few months. Page 1

4 MEMBERSHIP - I have become a member of St. John-Hill Church to share my faith walk together with the Congregation on Dec. 3, 2017 Two persons joined our Congregation: Sally Shirk on March 26, 2017 and Roxanne Anhalt on June 25,2017 CONFIRMATION CLASS - The Confirmation Class will run from Sept. 10, 2017 Apr. 1, We have five young ladies involved: Emma Beidler, Lexi Beidler, Brynn Wagner, Kyah Wagner, and Samantha Jo Dolansky. They will be confirmed and will become members of Hill Church. Their Graduation gift will be a trip to Sight and Sound (Lancaster, PA), everyone is invited to attend. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - I taught a class in the week, Jun , 2017, and lead worship for closing program on Sunday, Jun. 18, 2017 PSEC U.C.C. CONFERENCE - I attended the 2017 Penn-SE Conference Fall meeting with Bob Fleming on Saturday, Nov. 18, at Schuykill Haven. Matthew Weller and I have met with the Covenant Committee on the Ministry to restore the U.C.C. Partner Minister standing. CHURCH ACTIVITIES - I participated in the following events: Pancake Dinner, Turkey Dinner, Ham Dinner, Christmas Cantata, Oley Fair, and 3 Outdoor Concerts in the Bandshell. Dec. 24, Christmas Eve we had worship at 9:30 AM, 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM. We had walk through communion in the last two services and regular pew communion in the first service. In the Spirit of Christ, Pastor s Report to the Congregation (continued) Pastor Mary Lake-Dillensnyder Page 2

5 Hill Church Register The following have been entered into the Hill Church Register during Please note that this does not include all statistics for St. John-Hill U.C.C. members, but only those entered in the church register. For instance, under Weddings, this does not include all St. John-Hill U.C.C. members who were married in 2017, but only those in which St. John-Hill U.C.C. was involved through the ministry of our Pastor. Under the heading of Funerals, there are several funerals conducted by our pastor for non-members and those who may not be buried in the Hill Church Union Cemetery and may have been performed outside of the sanctuary, but rather we participated in those services through the ministry of our Pastor. Baptisms and Dedications Name Born Date Juliana Mae Weller September 21, 2016 Baptized: March 19 Amy Anhalt September 15, 2015 Baptized: June 25 Brynn Wagner August 24, 2004 Baptized: August 5 Weddings Name Date Ryan Delp to Jordan Stauffer May 27, 2017 Lugi Massa to Meghan Wagner August 26, 2017 Keith Weller to Megyn Stauffer October 21, 2017 Wilhelm Roscher to Anne Connor December 9, 2017 Funerals Name Deceased Funeral Molly Benfield July 4, 2017 July 10, 2017 Fern Schanely September 27, 2017 September 27, 2017 Elizabeth Miller October 3, 2017 October 3, 2017 Page 3

6 Consistory s Report to the Congregation The Consistory of St. John Hill U.C.C. first and foremost would like to thank God for His guidance and blessings during this past year at Hill Church has been a year filled with both blessings and challenges. One of the most notable was the calling of Pastor Mary to be our full time pastor, and this has proven to be quite a blessing. We are excited to have Pastor Mary lead us as we worship together and continue to grow in faith. Many people have worked faithfully to enable Hill Church to accomplish the many projects that were completed in The Consistory would like to say Thank You to everyone who has contributed to our church this year, both openly and quietly behind the scenes with altar preparations, communion setup, folding bulletins, newsletters, worship leaders, Christmas decorating, Sunday School teachers, care and maintenance of church property the list goes on. Without your hard work, prayers, and trust in the Lord, none of this would have been possible. As the central administrative, spiritual life, and governing body of your church the Consistory has endeavored to serve you responsibly, efficiently, and faithfully, and although we know that we cannot please everyone all of the time, it is our hope and prayer that we will follow God s leading in all of our actions. We rely heavily on the work of the various committees in the church and wish to thank them for their support in carrying out the ministry of God s work here. Following is a brief recap of the activities for The Consistory members during 2017 were: Matt Weller (President), Arlan Schaeffer (Vice President), Dottie Fronheiser (Assistant Treasurer), Anita Brady (Secretary), Bob Fleming, Rick Furches, Bonnie Helmick, Mark Hile, Ray Kochey, David Mutter and Terry Shane. Pastor Mary and Wendy Shane, who is an employee serving as St. John - Hill U.C.C. s Treasurer, also attended the monthly Consistory meetings providing much information, guidance, and support. Consistory members and officers will remain the same for As we look forward to serving Hill Church and the Lord, we are still in search of another Consistory member to bring us back up to 12 members. Notable Activities And Events Of 2017 Overwhelming support for various non-profit organizations, including Boyertown Area Multi Service, Salvation Army of Boyertown, and Boyertown Lions Club. Helping at the food stand during the Oley Fair. Vacation Bible School Program Another exciting week with a great turnout. Mission Trips Mission Trip Birdsboro with St. Paul s U.C.C. Monday Morning Prayer Group. Youth events: Wilcox Farms Corn Maze, Aluminum can collection. Several concerts held in our band shell. Continued Improvements and maintenance to our historic buildings. The Boy Scouts continue to stay active assisting with our suppers and other activities. Many more listed under the various committees reports. This has been a busy year, filled with many new activities which have been a source of growth and blessings to many. Please join us for more of these in continued on next page... Page 4

7 Consistory s Report to the Congregation (continued) Focus for 2018 As a priority for 2018 the Consistory would like to remain focused on spiritual growth and fellowship among our church family. We also want to reach out to those we do not see often at Hill Church, as well as our nearby community, and reinvigorate our mission outreach. As in 2017 we will continue to focus on the following areas this year: Continue to strive to improve the financial condition and stewardship of Hill Church, which will most likely occur by default as we accomplish the following tasks. Pursue new avenues of mission outreach in our local community and elsewhere. Pursue new activities to promote the spiritual growth and fellowship of our members. Pursue an effective visitation program to reach out to our fellow members whom we have not seen in a while, encourage our active members in their individual spiritual journeys, and reach out to others in our community in need of a helping hand or a new church home. The Consistory plans, along with the general monthly review, to continue to thoroughly review our expenses vs. income on a quarterly basis this year. As we move through 2018 we ask you to continue to pray for guidance in your giving and ask God to lead us all in our financial decisions. As we look to 2018, let us all direct our efforts to reviving our membership and community to a renewed spirit of love and service for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! We are pleased to serve on your Consistory and we are very excited to see what God has in store for Hill Church in Please keep the Consistory and our entire church family in your prayers throughout Respectfully Submitted, In Christ, Your Consistory Page 5

8 2017 Fund Activity Report Account # Account Name YTD Activity General Operating Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 1.00 Income Current 104, Plate 4, Bulletins Maintenance 12, General Fund CD s Interest Inc Saving Account Interest Income Operating Income 123, Altar Flowers 1, Easter Flowers Memorial Day Geraniums Poinsettia Initial Offering Pass-through Income 1, Sunday School Reimbursement Park Committee Reimbursement Committee Reimbursements Sexton House Rental Income 8,400 Total Income $133, Expenses Pastor Salary 39, FICA reimbursement 3, Pension 6, Pastor Salary Package 48, Professional Expenses Pastor Expenses Parsonage Heat 4, Parsonage Maintenance/Up Keep Parsonage Electric 1, Parsonage Taxes 4, Parsonage Expenses 10, Organist Salary 11, Organist Supplies Supply Organist Organist Expenses 11, Page 6

9 2017 Fund Activity Report Account # Account Name YTD Activity Secretary Salary 12, Secretary Expenses 12, Sexton Expense 7, Sexton Electric 1, Sexton Expenses 8, Treasurer Salary 1, Treasurer Expenses 1, FICA Expense(Church portion) 1, Advertising Expense Substitute Pastor Church Telephone Church Heat 5, Church Office Heat 2, Church Maintenance 1, Sexton House Maintenance 2, Church Electric 1, Church / Office Supplies 2, Church Taxes 6, Dues & Subscriptions Sanitation Service Exterminator Service Postage Service Contracts 2, U.C.C. Insurance 15, License/Permits/Inspections 1, Contribution Envelopes Church Expenses 49, All Saints Offering Flowers: Altar, Holiday,etc 1, Donations Pass-Through Expenses 1, Pastors Cell Phone Total Expenses $145, Ending Fund Balance ($11,098.12) Page 7

10 2017 Fund Activity Report Account # Account Name YTD Activity Benevolence Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 3, Income Benevolence 3, All Saint s Offering Benevolence 3, Strengthen the Church Total Income $3, Expenses PA SE Conf/ OCWM 3, Benevolence 3, Total Expenses $3, Ending Fund Balance $3, Communion/Benevolence Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 7, Income Communion/Benevolence 1, Benevolence 1, Total Income $1, Expenses Communion Offering Disbursement Pass-Through Expenses Total Expenses $ Ending Fund Balance $8, Trust Funds Beginning Fund Balance 61, Income Barto Trust Fund 3, Rohrbach Trust Fund 17, Trust Fund Income 21, Total Income $21, Page 8 Ending Fund Balance $82,417.13

11 2017 Fund Activity Report Account # Account Name YTD Activity Ralph D Groff Estate DRalph Donation Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 0.00 Income Ralph D Groff Estate 25, Total Income $25, Ending Fund Balance $25, Memorial Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 14, Income Memorial Fund Donations 1, Memorial Fund Interest Income 3.94 Benevolence 1, Total Income $1, Steeple Fund Ending Fund Balance $15, Beginning Fund Balance 13, Income Steeple Fund Interest Benevolence Total Income $ Ending Fund Balance $13, Carillon Fund Beginning Fund Balance 6, Income Carillon CD Interest Income 2.65 Total Income $2.65 Ending Fund Balance $6, Page 9

12 2017 Fund Activity Report Account # Account Name YTD Activity Church Air Conditioner Fund Beginning Fund Balance 17, Income Church A/C Fund Donations 6, Benevolence 6, Total Income $6, Ending Fund Balance $24, Mission Outreach Fund Beginning Fund Balance 22, Income Mission Outreach Team 19, Pass-through Income 19, Total Income $19, Expenses Missions Outreach Team Expense 20, Pass-Through Expenses 20, Total Expenses $20, Ending Fund Balance $ Fellowship Team Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance Ending Fund Balance $ Maintenance Fund Balance Beginning Fund Balance 0.00 Income Door Maintenance Donations 2, Total Income $2, Ending Fund Balance $2, Page 10

13 2017 Audited Account Balance Sheet Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2017 Account # Account Name YTD Balance Assets Checking Account 84, Money Market Savings Account 30, Steeple CD 15, Memorial Fund Saving Account 15, Savings-Ready Access CD-NPB 44, Ready Access CD-Carillon Fund 4, Total Assets $194, Liabilities Federal/FICA Withholding State Withholding Local Withholding Total Liabilities $ Fund Balance General Operating Fund Balance (11,098.12) Benevolence Fund Balance 3, Communion/Benevolence Fund Balance 8, Trust Funds 82, Ralph D Groff Estate DRalph D onation Fund Balance 25, Memorial Fund Balance 15, Steeple Fund 13, Carillon Fund 6, Church Air Conditioner Fund 24, Mission Outreach Fund 21, Fellowship Team Fund Balance Door Maintenance Fund Balance 2, Total Fund Balance $193, Total Liabilities and Fund Balance $194, Page 11

14 2018 Budget Projection for the General Fund Income Total Oct 2016 thru Sept 2017 Budget 2017 Proposed 2018 Budget % of total Current , ,000 Plate ,500 6,000 Transfer from Trust Fund 26,393 10,173 Bulletins Cemetery Rent Cemetery Insurance General Fund CD Interest Money Market Interest Sexton House Rental Income ,400 8,400 Maintenance ,000 15,000 Operating Income , , % Flowers - (Alter,holiday,etc) ,500 1,500 Initial Offering Luminary Donations Summer Concert Income Pass-though Income ,300 1, % Sunday School Reim Park Committee Reim Women's Guild Reim Committee Reimbursements % Total Income , ,654 Page 12

15 2018 Budget Projection for the General Fund (continued) Expenses Total Oct 2016 thru Sept 2017 Budget 2017 Proposed 2018 Budget % of total Total Income , ,654 Parsonage Offset FICA Reimbursement ,276 4,276 Pension / Life / Disability ,800 6,800 Health/Dental Insurance ,600 2,600 Pastor Salary Package ,321 52, % Parsonage Heat ,000 3,500 Parsonage Maintenance/UpKeep Parsonage electric ,500 1,500 Parsonage Taxes ,700 4,800 Total Parsonage Expenses ,900 10, % Organist Salary ,325 11,495 Organist Supplies Supply Organist Organist Expenses ,100 12, % Secretary Salary ,081 12,262 Substitute Secretary Secretary Expenses ,081 12, % Sexton Expense ,072 7,178 Sexton Electric ,200 Sexton Supplies Snow Removal Sexton Expenses ,562 9, % Treasurer Salary ,910 1,939 Treasurer Expenses ,910 1, % FICA Expense(Church Portion) ,000 2,050 Advertising Expenses Mileage Reim-Pastor ,500 2,500 Professional Exp-Pastor Pastor Cell Phone 600 Substitute Pastor Page 13

16 2018 Budget Projection for the General Fund (continued) Expenses (continued) Total Oct 2016 thru Sept 2017 Budget 2017 Proposed 2018 Budget Church Telephone Church Heat ,000 6,500 Church Maintenance ,500 3,500 Sexton House Maintenance ,500 1,500 Office / Sexton House Heat ,000 3,500 Church Electric ,300 2,300 Church / Office Supplies ,800 1,800 Church Taxes ,800 7,000 Dues & Subscriptions Sanitation Service Exterminator Service Postage ,000 1,000 Group/Edu Study Expenses Service Contracts ,000 2,100 Donations U.C.C. Insurance ,500 18,500 License/Permits/Inspections ,000 1,300 Contribution Envelopes Meeting Expenses/Conf & Training Natural Church Development Exp Staff Christmas Gifts ,000 1,000 % of total Church Expenses , , % Flowers:Altar, holiday, etc ,500 1,500 Summer Concert Performances Pass-Through Expenses ,000 1, % Youth Group Support Fellowship Events Spiritual Life / Worship Team Missions Outreach Team Miscellaneous Expenses ,000 1, % Total Expenses , ,654 Difference Page 14

17 Barto Trust The Barto Trust was established by Minerva Barto as part of her last will and testament. In her will she bequeathed various amounts to different people and organizations, and then designated that the residue of her estate be used to establish a perpetual trust to benefit two churches: St. John Hill Church, and New Goshenhoppen Church. Initially called The National Bank of Boyertown, then became known as National Penn Bank and as of 2016 became known as BB&T Bank was named as trustee, and directed to distribute the income to the two churches, in equal amounts. The trust seems to have been formally established on or about January 30, 1996, with a principal amount of $100,000. We have a copy of her will, outlining the provisions of the trust. Date Balance 12/31/1995 $0 1/30/1996 $100,000 12/31/1996 $123,897 12/31/1997 $132,549 12/31/1998 $141,145 12/31/1999 $163,461 12/31/2000 $162,460 12/31/2001 $147,746 12/31/2002 $124,864 12/31/2003 $144,767 12/31/2004 $154,320 12/31/2005 $158,478 12/31/2006 $167,056 12/31/2007 $174,065 12/31/2008 $116,814 12/31/2009 $139,983 12/31/2010 $148,686 12/31/2011 $144,138 12/31/2012 $151,789 12/31/2013 $168,588 12/31/2014 $133,942 12/31/2015 $130,496 12/31/2016 $158,024 12/31/2017 $174,477 Page 15

18 Barto Trust $200,000 $180,000 $160,000 $140,000 $120,000 $100,000 $80,000 $60,000 $40,000 $20,000 $0 $163,461 $162,460 $147,746 $132,549 $141,145 $123,897 $124,864 $100,000 Barto Trust Fund $144,767 $158,478 $167,056 $154,320 $174,065 $148,686 $144,138 $151,789 $139,983 $168,588 $133,942 $158,024 $174,477 $130,496 $116,814 Date Value Page 16

19 Rohrbach Trust The Rohrbach Trust was established by Charlotte Rohrbach in the late 1980 s. She created a charitable remainder annuity trust by contributing a sum of money to the trust account. She received an annuity from the account during her life, and when she died in 1994, the remainder of the funds in the account became a trust to benefit the charities she designated. Those charities are St. John Hill Church and Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, Leesport. The trust for the churches was formalized in late 1994, and the initial distribution appears to have been made to the churches in late 1994 or, more likely, early The initial value of the trust was slightly more than $400,000. In the trust document, the trustee (initially Dauphin Bank and Trust Company, then changed to M & T Bank, and as of 2014 changed their name to Wilmington Trust) is to manage the funds and distribute the entire income from the trust to the beneficiaries on a quarterly basis. Wilmington Trust Bank, as trustee, has determined that this arrangement constitutes what is known as a private foundation and, as such, the trustee is required by the IRS to distribute to the beneficiaries no less than 5% of the trust s net worth each year. This is where the issue arises about being paid from the principal amount of the trust. If the income in any year does not exceed 5%, plus the management costs and fees (which have been about 2%), then part of the mandatory 5% distribution is going to be taken from the principal amount. In other words, any year in which trust income is not at least 7%, the principal amount is going to be reduced. Date Balance 12/31/1994 $0 8/31/1995 $402,638 2/28/1996 $462,854 3/1/1999 $589,060 1/1/2002 $586,830 9/1/2002 $504,118 12/31/2003 $536,497 2/29/2004 $544,495 3/1/2005 $522,929 8/31/2005 $519,885 8/31/2006 $530,151 12/31/2007 $554,968 12/31/2008 $392,763 12/31/2009 $459,390 12/31/2010 $483,891 12/31/2011 $442,841 12/31/2012 $469,468 12/31/2013 $514,479 12/31/2014 $495,686 12/31/2015 $461,288 12/31/2016 $456,678 12/31/2017 $494,403 Page 17

20 Rohrbach Trust $700,000 $650,000 $600,000 $550,000 $500,000 $450,000 $400,000 $350,000 $300,000 Rohrbach Trust Fund $589,060 $586,830 $462,854 $504,118 $536,497 $544,495 $530,151 $522,929 $519,885 $554,968 $459,390 $483,891 $442,841 $469,468 $514,479 $495,686 $461,288 $494,403 $456,678 $402,638 $392,763 Date Value Page 18

21 Christian Education Committee Report The committee meets the first Monday of each month to discuss new and old events and happenings. Everyone is welcome to attend these meetings and share your thoughts and ideas. Our annual Souper Bowl Sunday fundraiser held in February filled the kitchen with crocks of soup. We collected $200, which was donated to the Boyertown Salvation Army while also enjoying 17 different types of soup. Our children s Easter Program was on Palm Sunday during the morning worship service. Thanks again Mayetta for the chocolate lollipops. The children were treated to an Easter Egg Hunt with crafts and snacks the Saturday before Easter. We honored our mothers on Mother s Day by giving each of them a carnation. Summer started with adventure in a workshop at Maker Fun Factory VBS. The many children and adults at Vacation Bible School in June learned that we can see God s light in our lives. The craft station allowed kids to make some crafts to take home and remember the theme. We collected money to help the mission team repair local houses on their mission trip. On August 5th the annual Ringgold Band Picnic was held. Thanks to everyone who came out and enjoyed the evening and also to those whose hard work made the picnic a success. The next day we held our annual outdoor Sunday School service in the bandshell. Our family day at Knoebels Grove started with a short time of songs. 6 children were given ride tickets. October began with many volunteers preparing for the annual Sausage Supper. Numerous service projects have been taken on by the Sunday School. They include: Joyful Noise Offering: We collected over $840. The children then went shopping to buy backpacks and angel tree gifts for other local children and also food to fill backpacks for Operation Backpack. It is so much fun watching kids run around the store picking out items and throwing them in the carts. Mid-Term Care Packages: 13 College students received goodies and best wishes during their finals week. The Angel Tree: One family with 4 kids were helped this year. The kids received lots of gifts and toys and the parent received a few gifts cards to help keep their bellies full too thanks to the generous support of everyone. As the Christmas season approached, the Sunday School children presented a song and reading during the Sunday of the cantata. The day was highlighted by a visit from Santa with gifts for all children in attendance followed by a luncheon for all to enjoy. We traveled to our home-bound families to share the Christmas spirit through carols. This past year the Sunday School donated money to Boyertown Multi-Service for the support of an elderly couple, sponsored local needs for children, and donated to the general fund of St. John-Hill U.C.C. We look forward to continuing our mission of spreading His Word through Join us every Sunday morning at 8:30 AM. No matter how young or how old, there is a class for you! Page 19

22 Hill United Sunday School Financial Report EXPENSES: LESSON MATERIALS $ SAUSAGE SUPPER $1, SUMMER CONCERTS $6, CHRISTMAS $ VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL $ WHITE BOARD $ ST. JOHN U.C.C. GEN. MAINTENANCE $2, FLOWERS $40.00 JOYFUL NOISE $ DONATIONS $ POSTAGE/MAILINGS $68.38 COLLEGE STUDENT SUPPORT $ PIANO TUNING $ ELDERLY SUPPORT $ FLOOR MAINTENANCE $ ST AID KIT $17.99 SALVATION ARMY (SOUPER BOWL SUNDAY) $ AIR COND. MAINT. $ CVLI COPYRIGHT LICENSE $ TOTAL EXPENSES $14, Page 20

23 Hill United Sunday School Financial Report INCOME: REGULAR OFFERINGS $2, MISSION OFFERINGS $ VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL $ SUMMER CONCERTS $7, SAUSAGE SUPPER $2, KNOEBELS GROVE $70.00 DONATION $50.00 SOUPER BOWL $ CHOW CHOW $48.00 JOYFUL NOISE OFFERINGS $ TOTAL INCOME $15, BALANCE IN TREASURY AS OF JANUARY 1, 2017 $7, BALANCE IN TREASURY AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 $7, MONEY MARKET ACCOUNT BEGINNING BALANCE JANUARY 1, 2017 $15, INTEREST $7.90 DEPOSIT $0.00 ENDING BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2017 $15, (note: $1, remains from the Wentzel estate gift. $ was used to purchase a white board and supplies for the Sunday school hallway.) Page 21

24 Soldiers Memorial Park Committee Report The Park Committee consists of volunteers who accept responsibility for the care and maintenance of all of the church property excluding the church building. To maintain the properties, our primary source of income is the profit obtained from the annual ham & turkey suppers. This year we served 332 people at the ham supper and 672 people at the turkey supper. We made a total profit of $7, from the two suppers combined. The Park committee wishes to thank all the members, friends and organizations of our church for their volunteered assistance and food donations for these suppers. Also a big thank you goes out to anyone who has provided baked goods. Without the help of everyone we could not sponsor the suppers. For 2017 work projects included: o Continued Pick Up Sticks o Tree removal and planting o Replacement of the Schoolhouse porch o General maintenance and repair 2018 projects include stone pointing in the barn, tree removal and planting, painting refreshment stand, demolition of pig sty and, as always, picking up sticks. Workdays are scheduled the second Saturday of each month year around. All are welcomed and encouraged, now more than ever, to support our work days with your time and talent. When we work together we can accomplish anything that we set out to do. We invite everyone to come and join in the camaraderie and fun. The committee wishes to show our gratitude by being thoughtful stewards of the church property. Our financial statement will show that the use of the money doesn t stop here but is used wherever needed. Our current members are President: Mark Hile,Secretary: Terry Shane, Treasurer: Joel Weller, Bob Shakespeare, Eileen Fisher, Richard Kemp, Dale Fronheiser, Jan Fisher, Ray Kochey, Dennis Weller, Dave Mutter, Elmer Miller, Matt Weller, Connie Hile We again thank all of you for helping us have a successful year. Submitted by, Mark Hile Park Committee President Page 22

25 Soldiers Memorial Park Financial Report Checking Account Balance In Checking As Of January 1, 2017 $7, Income Transfer from Savings $4, Ham Supper $4, Turkey Supper $9, Total Income $17, Expenses Electric for Park $ Gas for Park $ Exterminator Service for Park $ Maintenance Repairs & Improvements $8, Ham Supper $2, Turkey Supper $3, Total Expenses $16, Balance In Checking As Of December 31, 2017 $8, Savings Account Balance In Savings As Of January 1, 2017 $14, Transfer to Checking ($4,000.00) Interest $5.62 Balance In Savings As Of December 31, 2017 $10, Page 23

26 Women s Guild Report As is our tradition, many members of the Guild enjoyed an afternoon of bingo while supporting the Boyertown Lions Club. The weather cooperated, and a fun time was had by all. As the year continued, missions of the Guild included: Quarterly support of $50.00 to St. John (Hill) for members with financial needs. Supplied Lent and Thanksgiving Eve refreshments. Provided donations to Bethany Children s Home, Boyertown Multi-Service, Safe Berks (including making 29 curtain panels and participating in the Walk for No More). Volunteered as Sunday morning Greeters for the month of May. Annually support a child in Guatemala through Compassion International. (Sadly our first sponsored child, Ashley, is no longer enrolled in the program, our second child, Jhojani, passed away, so we are currently sponsoring Lesly.) Raised $1,500 to address the needs of the church doors at our 6th annual auction in August. Made a contribution to the U.C.C. Emergency USA Fund for Hurricane Harvey relief. Made both applesauce and chow chow in the fall for a year s worth of church suppers. We are grateful for the volunteers who helped to make it and the donated apples and vegetables for these projects. As always, if anyone has extra crops, please keep us in mind for chow chow. Items needed would be green, wax and lima beans, red or yellow peppers, cucumbers, and cabbage. Call Nancy Weller with any donations. Received a wish list for the consumers of Wernersville State Hospital, a mission we support annually and delivered over $ worth of much appreciated clothing and toiletry items. Collected our annual thank offering boxes and passed on the blessings to Church World Services. Donated turkeys valued at $200 to Boyertown Multi-service. Held a Blue Mountain Candle sale to raise funds for our wide-ranging missions. Remembered our shut-in s during the Christmas Season by making gift bags for delivery during caroling. Other ongoing projects of the Guild include: selling our cookbook and RADA Cutlery, assisting church families with funeral luncheons when requested, sponsoring Confirmation bibles and keepsake baby bibles to children being baptized and a keepsake book for the parents. Finally, we rang out 2017 with our Guild Christmas Dinner at Giannotti s on a very seasonal night but not snowy! Our regular meetings are held on the first Tuesday night of the month at 7:00 p.m. Our meetings are usually held in the kitchen at church, with the exception of our occasional excursions or cancellations due to bad weather. (We will once again be traveling to Phoebe Berks in Wernersville in May to enjoy covered dishes and to hold our meeting with our member Marie Brumbach who is delighted to host us!) Our meetings consist of a short regular business meeting followed by a program of interest. All women are welcome to join us any time. Contact President Megyn Weller if you have any questions about Women s Guild activities. We wish to thank everyone for all your support during the past and look forward to your continued support! We thank God for His guidance. Blessings, Hill Church Women s Guild Page 24

27 Women s Guild Financial Report Beginning Balance 1/1/2017 $4, INCOME Offering $ Cook Books $90.00 Cake/Pie Sales $ Cutlery $80.00 Auction $1, Thank Offering $ Funeral meals $ Donations $50.00 Candles Sales $1, Safe Berks $ Total Income $5, EXPENSES Wernersville, Easter & Christmas $ Safe Berks $ St. John Hill (doors) $1, St. John Hill Church - Needy $ Change - bake sales $ Compassion Int. $ Bethany Home $50.00 Confirmation Bibles $61.48 Church World Svcs. $ Cutlery $ Gifts $ Candle Fundraiser $ Flowers $98.51 Boyertown Multi Service $ U.C.C. Emergency Services $ Total Expenses $5, Ending Balance 12/31/17 $3, Page 25

28 Union Cemetery Board Report The Hill Church Union Cemetery, Inc. Board of Directors consists of six volunteers, each serving a staggered three year term. Three members are appointed by the Council of St. Joseph Hill Lutheran Church and three are appointed by the Consistory of St. John Hill U.C.C. The respective congregations then vote to approve the appointees. The Duty of the board is, To maintain, supervise and be responsible for the operation of the cemetery and to ensure that it will service the corporation and surrounding communities. Each spring, board members and volunteers straighten and reset tombstones that have shifted over the winter s freeze-thaw cycle. We also locate/set cornerstones of individual lots. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped with these projects in the past and we look forward to your help again this spring. The members for 2017 included Elmer Miller (president), Alan Wood (vice-president), Tyler Shane (secretary), David Renninger (treasurer), Keith Weller and Keith Sharp. Lot price is $300 each (includes perpetual care). Grave opening & closing is $775 ($325 for cremation), burial cost is subject to additional fees for tent, foundations, weekend hours, etc. PLEASE NOTE that the cemetery bylaws state that cemetery lots shall have NO permanent plantings or installations. Any plants placed on lots shall remain in pots or containers so that they can be removed for grass trimming. Also, please remember to remove plants within a timely period, and dispose of them properly for environmental purposes. Page 26

29 Union Cemetery Financial Report Ordinary Income/Expenses Income Foundations $7, Tent & Equipment $ Perpetual Care $1, Sale of Lots $3, Notary Fees & Deeds $ Entry Fee $3, Interest on Investments $40.23 Miscellaneous Income $75.28 Total Income $18, Expenses Cemetery Care $11, Foundations $7, Safe Deposit Box Rental $25.00 Berks County Cemetery Assoc Dues $10.00 American Cemetery Magazine $85.00 Flowers for Graves $22.77 Misc Expense $ Total Expenses $19, Net Ordinary Income -$ Other Income/Expenses Other Income Investment Income Gain/Loss Morgan Financial Investment $36, Total Investment Income $36, Total Other Income $36, Other Expenses Investment Management Fee Morgan Financial Management Fee $3, Total Investment Management Fee $3, Total Other Expenses $3, Net Other Income $33, Net Income $32, Page 27

30 Assets Union Cemetery Financial Report Current Assets Checking/Savings Bally Savings Bank Checking Account $ Bally Savings Bank Account $11, Total Checking/Savings $12, Total Current Assets $12, Other Assets Invested Funds Morgan Financial Investments $355, Total Invested Funds $355, Perpetual Car Reserve $(175,177.69) Total Other Assets $180, Total Assets $192, Liabilities & Equity Equity Opening Balance Equity $311, Unrealized Gain/Loss on Investment $(738.67) Perm. Restricted Net Assets in Perpetual Care Reserve $(175,177.69) Net Income $17, Retained Earnings $6, Net Income $32, Total Liabilities & Equity $192, Officers: Auditors: Elmer H. Miller - President Nancy Weller Alan Wood - Vice President Kathie Gilbert Tyler C. Shane - Secretary David Reichert David Renninger - Treasurer Keith Sharpe - Member Keith Weller - Member Page 28

31 Board of Trustees Report The Board of Trustees consists of three members elected by the congregation. Their main responsibility is the care and control of the property of the congregation as a sacred trust, whether real or personal, in accordance with the Articles of Incorporation and of the Constitution and By-Laws of the United Church of Christ. Our major project this year was construction of a new porch roof for the one room school house for the cost of $5, The project was completed by Pine Hill Builders, LLC. There were also repairs made to the stone pointing at the school house porch foundation by John Lindsay for a cost of $ Mission Statement We the trustees of St. John Hill U.C.C. Church are wholeheartedly dedicated to creating and maintaining a safe and spiritual place of worship for all who wish to come to praise the glory of God. To achieve this relationship, we will: Maintain a safe and spiritual place to worship Promote an atmosphere uniquely designed for continual improvements Respect and support all members and nonmembers alike Continue to support all the various committee efforts Assist our pastor to promote the word of our Lord Now and in the future, we realize that our members are equally vital to the success of our church s mission. We look forward to serving St. John Hill U.C.C. Church. We have a rich history here at Hill Church with our first Reformed baptisms and ministry dating back to Our forefathers had many great visions when they built this church in which to worship. It is our responsibility to know our past, so we can reach to the future and carry on the many dreams and traditions they started so many years ago. This is our time to step forward and spread God s love to all our neighbors and friends. Respectfully submitted, Mark Hile, Bill Moyer, & Terry Shane Trustees of St. John-Hill United Church of Christ Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. ~1 John 4:7-8 Page 29

32 Music Department Report Anthems for the year were provided by the senior choir and occasionally the praise choir. The cantata choir and some of the members from Salem U.C.C. choir performed a Lenten Cantata titled, In Calvary s Shadow written by Victor Johnson on Maundy Thursday April 13. Keri Wagner played the accompaniment. As in the past, volunteers provided music selections as anthems for our summer worship services. Several services were held outdoors. Thank you to all who volunteered. On December 10 at 3:00 p.m. five members of our church participated in a community cantata at Salem U.C.C., Covered Bridge Road in Oley Township. The cantata was Sing Joy to All the World written by Lloyd Larson. Our church was one of six churches represented from the area. On Sunday December 17 our choir and guests presented the same cantata during our morning worship service. The children of our Sunday school also presented a brief program and a song. Afterwards Santa presented gifts to all the children followed by a luncheon. On Sunday December 24 services were held at 9:30 am, 7 pm, and 10 pm. At the 9:30 service, a selection titled Mary Did You Know was sung by Kristin Bender. The anthem, Sing Gloria was sung by the choir. The carols for this service were accompanied by Eileen Fisher (piano), Bob Fleming (keyboard), and Elmer Miller (organ). At the 7:00 pm service, the prelude consisted of piano and organ duets, a selection featuring recorder, keyboard and organ, a piano selection by Katrina Prutzman, a duet by Rick Furches and Elmer Miller, and a solo by Bob Fleming accompanied by Eileen and Elmer. The choir sang the anthem Worship Christ the Newborn King. During the candle lighting, George Benjamin sang O Holy Night accompanied by Rick Furches playing guitar. Carols were accompanied again by piano, keyboard, and organ. At the 10:00 pm service, the prelude consisted of piano and organ duets, a duet by Rick Furches and Elmer Miller, and a solo by Bob Fleming accompanied by recorder (Eileen Fisher) and piano (Elmer). Bob Fleming sang a solo Sweet Little Boy Jesus as the anthem. George Benjamin sang O Holy Night accompanied by Rick Furches playing the guitar during the candle lighting. The carols were accompanied again with piano, keyboard, and organ. Thank you to the volunteers who gave of their time and talents to the music ministry of our church. Let us sing our praises to our God Almighty. God Bless, Elmer Miller Organist/Choir Director Page 30

33 Youth Group Financial Report EXPENSES: COMPASSION INTERNATIONAL/SPONSORSHIP $ TOTAL EXPENSES $ INCOME: CAN RECYCLING $ TOTAL INCOME $ BALANCE IN TREASURY AS OF JANUARY 1, 2017 $3, BALANCE IN TREASURY AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2017 $3, Page 31

34 Missions Report Your Mission Team had an active 2017 reaching out into our community to demonstrate faith through deeds. In July, members of Hill Church joined with St. Paul s Birdsboro, St. Paul s Amity and Alice Focht U.M.C. to reach out the Christian hand of kindness to those less fortunate in the Birdsboro / Douglassville area. Tasks ranged from cleaning out rain gutters, painting, yard work, small carpentry, electrical, plumbing and masonry projects. This year over 90 participants joined to provide assistance to over 34 projects. Our days began with a group breakfast at 7 am, morning worship, workday at various in the Birdsboro area, evening meal together and evening group building and vespers. Through hands, God s love was demonstrated to the community. At the request of Boyertown Multi-Service, in September the MTB team joined forces to construct an access ramp for an elderly woman in Sassamasville. As stated by the homeowner, Now I can get my mail and newspaper everyday. In addition, working through the Multi-service we supported meals at Thanksgiving and Easter as well as miscellaneous grocery items throughout the year. Operation Back Pack support continues with a monthly donation and support. Through Compassion International, we continue to support Aura in the Dominican Republic. Assistance was provided for a church member s family affected by Hurricane Harvey. We continue to sell grocery cards to support outreach. For every dollar you spend you receive the same amount in grocery cards. Giant, Redner s and Weis in turn give us 5%. Thanks for your past and continued support. We urge all to seek for opportunities to volunteer this year. Step up and be rewarded with the spirit of service. Page 32

35 2016/2017 Worship Attendance Month 2016 Date Number Attended 2017 Date Number Attended Month 2016 Date Number Attended 2017 Date Number Attended January July canc Average Attendance Average Attendance February August Average Attendance Average Attendance March September (M.T.) (7 am) Average Attendance (9:30 am) 124 Average Attendance October April (M.T.) (7 am) Average Attendance (9:30 am) November Dave Stahl Average Attendance (T.E.) 25 St. Joe's (T.E.) May Average Attendance December Average Attendance June (3 pm) (9:30 am) (7 pm) (7 pm) (10 pm) (10 pm) Average Attendance Average Attendance *2012 average attendance per service was 103 *2015 average attendance per service was 80 *2013 average attendance per service was 95 *2016 average attendance per service was 73 *2014 average attendance per service was 90 Page 33 *2017 average attendance per service was 69

36 Leadership Persons 2018 Consistory Matthew Weller Arlan Schaeffer Anita Brady Wendy Shane Dottie Fronheiser Bob Fleming Rick Furches Bonnie Helmick Mark Hile Ray Kochey David Mutter Terry Shane President Vice President Secretary Treasurer/Not Member Assistant Treasurer Trustees Mark Hile Bill Moyer Terry Shane Sunday School Leadership Elmer Miller Nancy Weller Wendy Shane Nikki Weller Superintendent Treasurer Assistant Treasurer Secretary Cemetery Directors St. John Hill U.C.C. Members: Elmer Miller President Secretary Keith Weller St. Joseph s Lutheran Members: Alan Wood Vice President David Renninger Treasurer Keith Sharpe Finance Committee Dottie Fronheiser Wendy Shane Matthew Weller Page 34

37 Leadership Persons 2018 (continued) Park Committee Mark Hile Joel Weller Terry Shane Women s Guild Megyn Weller Kristen Nagy Eileen Fisher Nancy Weller Missions Committee Mark & Connie Hile Jan Fisher David Motz Terry Shane Youth Group Pastor Mary Dale Fronheiser Nancy Weller President Treasurer Secretary President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Adult Leader Adult Leader Treasurer Boy & Cub Scouts Troop 518 Bill Richmond Scout Master Bobby Shakespeare Asst. Scoutmaster Shawn Conrad Asst. Scoutmaster Bonnie Helmick Com. Chairman/Charter Rep. Dawn Childress Treasurer/Secretary David Motz Charter Member Additional Contact Information Mary Lake-Dillensnyder Pastor Elmer Miller Church Organist Nikki Weller Church Secretary Wendy Shane Treasurer Charles Anhalt Sexton Nikki Weller Web Master Church contact information Page 35

38 Annual Congregational Meeting Minutes - February 26, 2017 Matt Weller opened the meeting and explained procedures for today s meeting, he will provide updates from the conference, insurance information and then vote. This year the report is being projected on the wall (font is a bit small) but there are paper copies available in the Narthex. Matt explained that this is the same report that was ed to everyone in February. Pastor s Report: Pastor Mary thanked everyone as she has only been here 1 month. Consistory Report: M. Weller summarized the report. He also mentioned there are 3 openings (those that left are Harold Albitz, Kristen Nagy, Clarence Weller) and we have 2 candidates (Bob Fleming and Dave Mutter) that need to be voted in, we are still looking for a 3rd candidate. Carey Anderson motioned to accept Bob and Dave as newest consistory members and Bob Shakespeare 2nd the motion all were in favor. Matt briefly went over the activity report with finances and explained we could put money back to the trust fund this year. This was mostly due to not having the salary of a FT minister, no sexton salary for several months and no major repairs. R. Furches asked if the trust fund money is used to balance the budget? Matt explained that the trust fund is not included in the budget (which was previously voted on and approved) however it has been used to balance budget when necessary. This year ALL trust fund income goes back into the trust fund account. We receive trust fund checks quarterly and the amount depends on the stock market and interest. Church Health Team: R. Furches gave a general overview. The survey was their main purpose this past year, it showed we needed to enhance our worship which is what they are working on. The team is remaining together, not clear of the focus for this year but will continue to work with consistory to see what is needed. Christian Education Committee: E. Miller explained that they meet monthly and he reviewed the committee s monthly activities. Vacation Bible School will be held June Park Committee: M. Hile talked about the 2016 projects planting trees, replacing roof on dining hall and light repair. Future projects for 2017 looking at replacing school house porch roof. Funding comes from our 2 big suppers. Word days will begin in March, it is always the 2nd Saturday of the month, jobs for all ages. Women s Guild: E. Fisher explained the guild s role in our church and their involvement with various outreach programs. 1st Tuesday in March at Dryville Hotel 6:15 PM there will be a guest speaker from Safe Berks (formally Woman in Crisis), this program now helps both men and women. They are hoping to do more with Bethany in the future. Union Cemetery Board: E. Miller explained that this is a joint partnership with St. Joseph s and they share the duties. Winter flower removal must be complete by April 2. Monday, May 1 they will be resetting stones. Plots are still available. Board of Trustees: T. Shane stated that there are 3 members, himself, Bill Moyer and Mark Hile and he read their mission statement. Asked for any questions and there were none. Music Department: E. Miller thanked the choir and encouraging anyone to join! He explained their yearly activities and some activities are shared with St. Joseph s. Page 36