ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH 700 North Second Avenue Stratford, WI 54484

Transcription

1 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH 700 North Second Avenue Stratford, WI ANNUAL MEETING January 28, CHURCH COUNCIL Term Expires Each Church Council Member serves a three-year term. PRESIDENT Brenda Castellano 2018 VICE PRESIDENT Becky Curtis 2019 TREASURER Adam Maguire 2017 SECRETARY Angie Guralski 2018 WORSHIP Lois Miller 2019 STEWARDSHIP Angela Ford 2017 EVANGELISM Cory Wiesman 2019 PROPERTY Lee Spindler 2017 FAITH FORMATION Jackie Fischer 2017 Kaitlyn Ulrich 2017 TRUST FUND June Krueger (2019) Wendy Grell (2018), Stacia Burrows (2017) ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH STAFF 2017 PASTOR DCM SECRETARY MINISTRY COORDINATOR ORGANISTS Sue Eidahl Ben Natzke Lori Lang Cari Frueh Judy Polege Marge Redetzke CUSTODIANS Vicki Hughes Melanie Nikolai - Interim Gerry Viegut 1

2 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH TABLE OF CONTENTS 2017 Church Council and Staff Page 1 Table of Contents Page 2 Annual Meeting Agenda Page 3 Northwest Synod of Wisconsin (Bishop Rick Hoyme) Page 4-5 Vision and Mission Statement and Logo Page 6 Thank You Page 6 Pastor s Report Page 7 Parochial Report Page 8-9 Zion 2017 Contributors Page Annual Meeting, Secretary s Report Page 11 President s Report Page 12 Office Report Page Prayer Chain Report Page 13 Evangelism Team Report Page Communion Stewards Page 14 Scholarship Fund Report Page 15 Scrip Report Page 15 Confirmation Report Page 16 Faith Formation Team Report Page Altar Guild Report Page 17 Media Ministry Report Page 17 Fair Trade Ministry Report Page 18 Stewardship Team Report Page 18 Property Team Report Page 19 Worship Team Report Page 19 Library Report Page Staff Support Team Report Page 20 Germanfest Report Page Cemetery Team Report Page Cemetery Financial Report Page 22 Rental Property Report Page 23 ZLC Trust Fund Report Page 23 Building Fund Financial Report Page 24 Building Fund Treasurer s Report Page 24 Treasurer s Report Page Mission Plan (Budget) Page

3 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA January 28, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER Council President 2. OPENING DEVOTIONS Pastor Sue Eidahl 3. SECRETARY S REPORT Angie Guralski 4. TREASURER S REPORT Adam Maguire 5. STAFF REPORTS a. Craig Gauerke b. Pastor Sue 6. TEAM REPORTS See Reports 7. ADOPTION OF AGENDA President/Congregation Additional unfinished or new business may be added to the agenda at this time. 8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS No unfinished business 9. NEW BUSINESS a. Voting for Council Members b. Voting for Synod Assembly Voting Members c. Plans for Rental Property Income d. Adoption /Approval of 2018 Ministry Plan (budget) ADJOURNMENT CLOSING: LORD S PRAYER 3

4 Dear Sisters and Brothers of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, I have read two books in the last four years that have had a significant impact on how I see life and how I see the church. The first is Younger Next Year: Live Strong, Fit, and Sexy - Until You're 80 and Beyond and the second is Growing Young: 6 Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church. Now, the title of the first contains a word we don t normally associate with beyond 80, but the second title throws out this mouthful: Help Young People Love Your Church. What I have learned from reading these books is that while neither is easy, both are possible. They require discipline, sacrifice and sometimes, just hard work. But they are BOTH possible. I have recommended the first book to all of our pastors and deacons who are at least 50 years old, which is a bunch of them. Some of them have read it, fewer have followed it, and I fear most have ignored me. At this year s Synod Assembly, I will be recommending the second book to every church in our synod. Because every church in our synod, or at least they say it, wants to grow young. If there is one overpowering symptom of the congregations of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, it is that they are old. And the second powerful symptom is that they say they want to grow young. My fear is that when the leaders of our churches hear about this book, some will read it, fewer will follow it and most will ignore it. Why? Because it requires discipline, sacrifice and sometimes, just hard work. But, it is work that God s word says God can do, and God desperately wants us to do with him. Revelation 21:5 says, And the one who was seated on the throne said, See, I am making all things new. Also he said, Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true. The one on the throne is God, and I believe that God is at work making God s church new and God is puzzled and grieved when God doesn t see us joining in this magnificent adventure. As many of you are aware, my time as bishop of our synod ends on June 30 of It will not be my responsibility, but it is my dream that would be a year for this synod to Grow Young for each congregation, for our campus ministries, for our Bible Camps to focus on this one thing. 4

5 Now, your next bishop may believe that the Spirit is blowing in another direction, but I ve still got six months! In the book, Growing Young it says: the terms young people and adults use to describe their own churches or parishes (that are Growing Young), we noticed repeated words such as welcoming, accepting, belonging, authentic, hospitable, and caring. We began to call this the warmth cluster. (p. 166). Both Younger Next Year and Growing Young emphasize that the changes needed will come out of love and caring. We change, because the people we love, and the people who love us desperately want and need us to change. God loves us. God sits on the throne and proclaims, I make all things new. It is time for a change. It is a time to grow young. It is a time for new. I am asked as I make this transition to the next chapter of my life, Do you believe our church(es) will survive? My answer is usually something like, I don t believe in churches, but I do believe in Jesus. And Jesus says For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26 I do believe in Jesus. May God make all things new in your life and in your ministries this year! Bishop Rick Hoyme Walking together + for the sake of mission + in God s world. 5

6 VISION STATEMENT Our vision is to make a positive impact in our world by having open hearts and open doors. We are establishing a foundation and partnership between the ministry of the Congregation and the home by being Authentic, Affirming, Available Christians practicing faith through Caring Conversations, Devotions, Service, Rituals and Traditions. MISSION STATEMENT Open Hearts, Open Doors, Open Hands A special thanks to our church staff and volunteers for their work in preparing this Annual Report. We also thank each member and attendee for gifts of time, talent, energy, and finances given to the ministry of Zion Church! Your continuing prayers and participation are crucial to outreach in the village of Stratford, Marathon County, and the rest of the world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. 6

7 PASTOR S REPORT 2017 Zion Family, One of my very favorite hymns is We Are Called (Evangelical Lutheran Worship, #720). The second verse of that hymn begins, Come! Open your heart! While preparing this report, this hymn came to mind and recalling the events of the past year, one thing has become crystal clear: we are a congregation that opens our hearts. Serving others with open hearts is the hallmark of this congregation. This past year we collected over 50 health kits to be sent through Lutheran World Relief to those in need. We continue to support our sister congregation of Mpenda in Malawi. We just finished Operation Christmas buying books, diapers, and wipes for our sisters and brothers in and around Houston, Texas, following hurricane Harvey. We reach out with caring hearts to those in crisis through the Germanfest fund. The hymn continues, Show your mercy to all those in fear. Zion shows mercy to clients of Lutheran Social Services. We raised $1,800 to be used in the many life-giving ministries of LSS. For over 20 years we have supported Steven and Bethany Friberg s medical missionary work in Tanzania. We also continue to give to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal and the ELCA Disaster Fund. Those ministries and our benevolence add up to close to $30,000. The last verse of the song reminds us to Sing a new song! Sing of that great day when all will be one! We continue to lift up and explore ways to worship and work together with other denominations in the village. As we bump elbows with our neighbors, we realize that God is at work in all of us. This year we said goodbye to Ben Natzke who served as our DCM for 5 years. Ben left to serve in another community along with his fiancé, Renee. Thank you, Ben, for sharing your gifts so generously with this congregation and for your faithful service. We look forward to Craig Gauerke joining us in this position. Thank you also to Lori for keeping us organized and keeping things running smoothly in the office, to Gerry and Vicki who keep the building cared for and cleaned, to our faithful organists, Judy and Marge, and to all the leaders and teams who make mission and ministry possible in this place. Praise God from whom all blessings flow, the best is yet to come. Pastor Sue 7

8 PAROCHIAL REPORT 1. MEMBERSHIP Baptized Confirmed Affiliated MEMBERSHIP LOSSES MEMBERSHIP GAINS Letter of Transfer 15 * Letter of Transfer 13 Death 5 Baptism 8 Affiliated TOTAL 21 TOTAL 20 * Received as Confirmed Member 8 * Received as Baptized Member AVERAGE ATTENDANCE Sunday Worship Summer Attendance (June - August) Lenten Mid-Week Advent Mid-Week COMMUNION PARTICIPATION FOR 2017 There are 579 recorded communion members of Zion of which 427 partook of Holy Communion. 4. OFFICIAL PASTORAL ACTS Baptisms 8 Weddings 3 Confirmations 18 Funerals 5 BAPTISMS Baptism Date BAPTISMS Baptism Date Ellie Southwick 1-22 Mila Johnson 6-25 Kali Jo Southwick 1-22 Hadley Kramer 8-6 Piper Balz 5-7 Wesley Binder 9-3 Jordy Trachte 6-18 Ellie Ullman 9-30 WEDDINGS Wedding Date Kevin Miller & Lois Custer 5-6 Brian Stroetz & Christina McCain 9-2 Adam Steiner & Joelle Sommerfeldt 9-16 CONFIRMATIONS Jared Carl Daria Hoesly Carter Randow Reed Curtis Paul Huther Dylan Schoenherr Ryan Foley Arik Johnson MaryAnn Stangl Brooke Grell Macey Kilty Trevor Steiner Darin Grell Emily Meyer Okley Wrensch Hunter Hannan Logan Peterson Nathan Zawislan 8

9 DEATHS Date Betty Spring Marvin Hagar Corey Joswiak Delores Johnson William Shanks Sr MEMBERSHIP TRANSFERS Mat Hoffman Larry Mueller Sandy Blyton Ava Hoffman Jean Mueller Bruce Busche Emma Hoffman Jacob Mueller Kathy Busche Jerald Clint Lucas Mueller Peter Leick Delores Clint Matthew Mueller Ellen Leick MEMBERS RECEIVED JoAnn Vanderzee Todd Schoenherr Raymond White Dayton White Jordan Aschenbrenner Dawn Schoenherr Lindsay White Dan Mikelson Jett Schoenherr Avery White Sharon Mikelson Wynn Schoenherr Finley White 9

10 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH 2017 CONTRIBUTORS The following are the contributions of Zion s household units. Thank you to each contributor for your ongoing support of Zion s mission and ministry. This shows each envelope giver. If there are any questions on your giving statements, please call the church office. These totals include weekly and special offerings for the entire year (including building). If you gave cash without an envelope it will not be included in your totals. Non-cash gifts or items are not included on your contribution statements; only cash donations can be itemized. If you give a non-cash item to the church and want to get credit for it for tax purposes, you will need to call the church office to receive a letter for you to use, along with your receipt, for the item purchased for the church. Any questions, please call the church office. Thank you. $ Amount 2, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , = 79 2, , ,

11 ZION LUTHERAN 2016 ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH Sunday January 29, :00 a.m. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: President Keith Grell OPENING DEVOTIONS: Pastor Sue SECRETARY S REPORT: M (Nicole Curtis) S (Allen Grell) C TREASURER S REPORT: M (Rod Huther) S (June Krueger) C STAFF REPORT S: DCM Report, Pastor s Report MINISTRY TEAM REPORTS ADOPTION OF AGENDA: Motion to accept adoption of agenda M (Dan Thompson) S (Jon Ulrich) C OLD BUSINESS A Amendment to the Constitution Motion passed by 2/3 vote to have 1 youth on council NEW BUSINESS A. Voting for 3 Council Members Becky Curtis Lois Custer Cory Wiesman B. Vote for Synod Assembly Voting Members (May 21) M(Dan Thompson) to allow council to delegate S (Mark Anderson) C C. Adoption/Approval of 2017 Congregational Mission Plan (Budget) Motion of approval of 2017 Budget M (Adam Maguire) S (Dan Thompson) C D. Amendments to Constitution/Bylaw Change Motion to accept change to the Constitution/Bylaws M (Marilyn Suckow) S (Wendy Grell) C ADJOURNMENT- M (Jon Ulrich) S (Allen Grell) C Meeting adjourned and closed with the Lord s Prayer Respectfully submitted by, Angie Guralski, Secretary 11

12 PRESIDENT S REPORT 2017 This is my first effort in the writing the President s report for Zion Lutheran. If anyone knows me, one of my favorite sayings is, My life is based on good intentions. I intended to get to this task earlier but alas, here I am writing at the last minute. Oh well. When I was approached to be on council, I was very fearful. I don t know how this church runs. I attend but don t pay attention to the details needed to run this council! I live by the verse Joshua 8:1: Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Obviously God wants me to trust and follow him. I ve enjoyed the last 2 years on council tremendously. It is always interesting to know the background of groups and the only way to really understand that is to be part of the club, council, group, etc. Being part of our amazing church makes me really appreciate all of the people who are behind the scenes to make this church run. I look forward to all of the changes that are and will be happening in our church. We were all very sad to have Ben move on to other adventures but we are all looking forward to meeting Craig and having him become part of our family at Zion. Every January we have the chance to start a brand new year. As a congregation, we set goals to become stronger, more financially sound, increase our participation in the church, and many other goals. We are faced with new challenges, new opportunities and new adventures as we strive to serve Jesus Christ. Many people start the new year with great goals, but try to do it on their own. This year, let s try striving toward our goal with God s help. We are weak but he is strong. Every day we will be faced with great opportunities to become better in life. We can do great things through his power and strength. I am sure 2018 will hold amazing things for all of us at Zion Lutheran Church! Respectfully submitted by Council President Brenda Castellano OFFICE REPORT 2017 The office needs your help to function smoothly. Please contact the church office for any changes to your address, , or phone number, especially if you have a Post Office Box for your mailing address. The office hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The phone recorder is available after hours and the office address is office@zionlc.com I would like to thank the crew of helpers who come to sort, fold, and staple the many publications that need to be sent out each year: Margaret Zimmerman, Loraine Holtman, Elmer & Marge Hayes, and Leon & Pat Tietyen. I couldn t get these publications out without your generous help. Thank you also to Marge Redetzke and Marge Hayes for proofreading and office assistance. Your church office needs funds to keep running. The following is an itemization of monthly petty cash and what it is used for. PETTY CASH EXPENSES General Postage (postage due, extra postage, packages, etc.) $ Bulk Mailings (newsletter, annual report, letters, etc.) $ Misc. (office supplies, etc.) $ 0 TOTAL PETTY CASH EXPENSES $

13 PLEASE CONTACT THE CHURCH OFFICE WHEN: Your home or business address, phone, or changes You have a Post Office Box address You change from land line to cell phone A member of your family is in the hospital You have a prayer request A family member passes away Your group plans to have a meeting at the church A new baby arrives in your family You would like the pastor to call or visit You have a joy or concern to share A family member leaves for college or establishes a new residence If you are going to be gone for any length of time (such as heading south for the winter). Submitted by, Lori Lang, Administrative Assistant PRAYER CHAIN REPORT 2017 One of the great privileges and ministries listed in the New Testament is the opportunity to remember one another in prayer to bear one another s burdens. Zion has a dedicated group of people who do just that. When a prayer request comes in to the church office, a call is made to the volunteers and ed to another group. They can start praying as soon as they get the message. Thanks to everyone who has been involved in the Prayer Chain. If anyone would like to join the prayer group, please call the church office. The Prayer Chain has prayed for over 8 people this year. You may submit prayers by calling or ing the church office, marking your communion card, or on the web. Submitted by Lori Lang, Prayer Chain Coordinator EVANGELISM TEAM REPORT 2017 Our team updated our objectives including: Hospitality To be a welcoming congregation Current Activities: - Fixed and updated the sign on the building and updating the sign on Hwy 97 - Continued to keep up the grounds with a welcoming sense of seasonal flowers - Welcomed guests as soon as they arrive; updated visitor packets and information. Added coffee mug as a welcoming gift. Follow-up with guests by sending a thank you for attending - Create a welcoming environment outside of worship through fellowship after services - Spring cleaning for the fellowship area and cleaning tables/chairs before Germanfest 13

14 Discipleship Involve and strengthen members within our congregation Current Activities: - Continue the We Care ministry through birthday, anniversary, get well and sympathy cards - Review the gifts assessment/inventory with new members - Promote our congregational members to invite others to services and church events - Minister to shut-ins & continue the visitation program - Continue prayer chain ministry and recruit additional people - Connect with recent graduates/service members - 5 th Sundays Special Activity Community Outreach & Communication Reach out to our local, regional, national, and worldwide communities by communicating the good news of the Gospel Current Activities: - Mail monthly newsletter and have copies available at the information stand - Use current media to project the bulletin on the screen - Participate and host in the ecumenical services each year & provide fellowship for Thanksgiving service - Maintain and grow our connection with our brothers and sisters in Malawi - Host Trunk r Treat on Halloween - Put on Teacher Appreciation Dinner in August Thank you to the congregation for supporting our events and we would love to have more members join our group. If interested, contact one of our current team members: Nicole Curtis, Sharla Dreikosen, Pastor Sue, Rhonda Knoll, Dan & Rhonda Thompson, Dan & Deb Wieland, Cory Wiesman COMMUNION STEWARDS 2017 Our communion stewards prepare the chalices and baskets with wine, grape juice, and bread or wafers for kneeling, walk through, or intinction communion services throughout the year. After each communion service is over, they also clean up and put everything away. Thank you to the faithful stewards who served during this past year: Jill Dasler, Chuck Foley, Marge Redetzke, Della Rudolf, Rhonda Thompson, Pat Tietyen, and Deb Wieland. Also, thank you to those who bake communion bread whenever asked. If you would like to help out by being a communion steward or a bread baker, please contact the church office or any of the stewards. Respectfully submitted by, Marge Redetzke 14

15 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH SCHOLARSHIP FUND 2017 Balance 01/01/2017 $ 4, Scholarships paid out Tianna Hughes $ (500.00) Sara Dasler $ (500.00) Amandalee Miller $ (500.00) Interest Earned $ 5.13 Balance on $ 2, SCRIP PROGRAM TREASURER S REPORT 2017 Beginning Balance $ 2, INCOME Deposits from card sales/internet orders $27, Cash Box Balance Kwik Trip rebates Cards on hand 4, TOTAL INCOME $31, TOTAL $34, EXPENSES Scrip Card Challenge Cards bought 8, Internet orders paid 20, TOTAL EXPENSES ($28,719.40) BALANCE $ 5, Checkbook $ 1, Cards on Hand $ 4, Cash Box $ This is the fifth year for the Scrip Program. We made $ in Thank you to everyone who purchased cards to support the program. We look forward to another successful year. Respectfully submitted by, Vicki Hughes, Treasurer 15

16 CONFIRMATION REPORT-2017 the church s task is not the conquest of young people, but the teaching of the gospel. ~Dietrich Bonhoeffer At their affirmation of baptism, confirmands are asked to make this promise for themselves: to live among God s faithful people, to hear the word of God and share in the Lord s Supper, to proclaim the good news of God in Christ through word and deed, to serve all people, following the example of Jesus, and to strive for justice and peace in all the earth. The process of preparing people to affirm these promises can take many forms, including classes and increased involvement in congregational life. The end goal is the same: to prepare people to boldly and confidently make those promises, affirm their baptisms and continue to live out their faith in the church. At Zion we continue to use the University Style curriculum which offers families with already busy schedules the opportunity to schedule classes and encourage faith formation. We offer core classes that are built around the Small Catechism and major Bible stories, and electives that are built around how we live out our faith in everyday life. Students participated in 3 retreats and nearly 30 classroom experiences this past year. Disciples for Christ is the 10 th grade confirmation program. Each student works with an adult mentor for a year, exploring ways that we can grow in faith and articulate that belief. Students and adults work together to prepare for Affirmation of Baptism. Thank you to Wendy Grell, along with all the adult mentors, for their commitment to this program. Respectfully submitted, Pastor Sue FAITH FORMATION MINISTRY TEAM REPORT 2017 The Faith Formation team for 2017 consisted of Ben Natzke (DCM), until his departure in June, Kaitlyn Ulrich and Jackie Fischer (co-chairs), Wendy Spaeth and Nicole Curtis. Meetings for Faith Formation are held monthly, usually on the first Monday of the Month. We continue to look for new and exciting ways to enhance the spirituality of not only our youth but the entire congregation. We recognize the importance of strengthening our relationship with God, as well as with each other. This is the second year that we ran our Little Lutherans and J-Team program. The kids meet twice a month, directly after school. This has continued to be an exciting adventure for the youth and for the teachers/helpers. We spent most of November and December working on Christmas songs and putting together a Christmas program. The program was held during the service on December 17 th and the kids did an amazing job! The VBS theme this past year was the Fun Maker s Fun Factory. We had another fun filled week spent with our friends at The Mill Church. Some of the high school youth spent a week in the outdoors canoeing and enjoying nature while strengthening and renewing their faith. We have continued to grow in a positive direction this year. Ben, our prior DCM, left our congregation as he settled in Minnesota to begin a new adventure. It was a very difficult change for many of the youth, staff and members of the congregation. We wish him well in his new 16

17 adventures. We are welcoming a new DCM, Craig Gauerke, at the beginning of 2018 and we look forward to the changes and new experiences that he will bring! Respectfully submitted, Jackie Fischer ALTAR GUILD 2017 Altar Guild is responsible for making the altar look clean, fresh and inviting. The Altar is dusted and polished monthly. All brass items are polished in the spring and the fall. Linens are cleaned as needed. We change the paraments according to the season: During Advent, the paraments are blue; Christmas they are white; Lent they are purple, black for Ash Wednesday, and Easter, again white. The rest of the year, other than special Sundays, such as Pentecost and Reformation when they are red, the paraments are green. We also set up for baptisms. The guild is also responsible for tending to fresh flower arrangements or plants. Each team member is responsible for a two-month period. I would like to thank the present team members Jean Huser and Keri Manecke who joined us this year. Our great loss this year was Betty Spring. Please contact me, or the office, if you are interested in becoming a member of the Guild. We would like to increase our membership by two or three. You can contact me by at mpkollman@yahoo.com or by phone at Respectfully Submitted Marge Kollmansberger Team Chair MEDIA MINSTRY REPORT 2017 Thank You to Zion s media team for the outstanding job of presenting the PowerPoint screens for our worship services. Team members include Ted Dasler, Rod Huther, Marge Kollmansberger, Adam Maguire, Kevin Miller and Sarah Schuette. Thanks also to Marge Redetzke and Lori Lang for their work in creating the text for the screens and double checking the finished product before presentation. We also thank Pastor Sue and the Worship Team for their continued support. This year we continued our normal presentation activities along with the installation of the security camera surveillance system. The system installation turned out to be a major undertaking. Special thanks to Bob Schultz for all his professional expertise, hard work with the installation. We know not what the New Year will bring, but we do know there will be opportunities and challenges that make for an exciting time for the team. You are invited to join the media team, even if you would like to serve in a limited capacity, your participation would be greatly appreciated. Respectfully submitted, Leon K. Tietyen 17

18 FAIR TRADE MINISTRY REPORT 2017 The Equal Exchange products sold at Zion are fairly traded. Fair Trade is not a charity or handout; it is simply a process of giving a fair exchange. Equal Exchange provides high-quality foods at a fair price to you. By cutting out the middlemen, Equal Exchange pays the farmers more and gives you a better value. By making the choice to buy fairly traded products, you help provide health care, education and technical trainings for farmers, workers, and artisans around the world. In 2016, just over $1,100 of product was ordered and $1, of Fair Trade was sold. Product sales include Fellowship, German Fest and Zion Members at the Fair Trade table or in the Fair Trade 24/7 Display. Lutheran World Relief is no longer a partner with Equal Exchange so the committee will look at options for Zion members. Thanks to June Krueger for her assistance and to all who purchase and assist with Fair Trade. If YOU are interested in helping in this ministry, let me know! Respectfully submitted, Darla Leick STEWARDSHIP TEAM 2017 The 2017 Stewardship Campaign theme was: Live Generously: Take Hold of the Life that Really is Life. For four Sundays, we explored Follow Jesus, talked about our faith, our passions, and our roles as God s generous stewards. This year we met as small groups in locations throughout the community and shared insights, concerns and hopes for Zion s future. On Celebration Sunday, we rejoiced and thanked God for God s great generosity. Thank you for your generous response to this year s Stewardship program. As a team, we continue exploring new possibilities for giving. A survey of the congregation showed interest in continuing the Simply Giving and considering Online Options. We will continue to review and update the congregation as new options become available. Although we were running in the red toward the end of the fiscal year, our giving in December helped us back into the black with some cash in the checkbook to start the new year. Thank you again for your generosity and support of the mission and ministry of Zion. Zion s Stewardship Team is made up of: Angela Ford (Chair), Sandy Andersen, Marge Hayes, Sarah Schuette, Wandnetta Karl, Brian & Darla Leick, and Pastor Sue. A big thank you goes to Marge Hayes, Arnie Polege and team members who count and record our weekly offerings and manage individual giving statements. Our giving is a tangible sign of God s work with our Hands. Angela Ford Stewardship Team Chair 18

19 PROPERTY TEAM REPORT 2017 Some of the things that kept the property team busy during 2017, aside from general maintenance, included: 1. Mulching of planting beds 2. Installation of an accessible pew 3. Painting of the wood windows on the Church and Sunday School 4. Sealing the asphalt parking lot, drive, and parsonage drive. Thank you to all who assisted throughout the year. A special thank you to Property Members Bob Aschenbrenner, Rich Krueger, Peter Leick, Mike Rock, Gary Wussow, and Pastor Sue for all their help and input. Respectfully Submitted, Lee Spindler WORSHIP TEAM REPORT-2017 Members of the 2017 worship team were: Lois Miller, Brenda Huther, Marge Kollmansberger, Marge Redetzke, Paul Untiet, Mary Wussow and Pastor Sue. Leon Tietyen remained a valued advisory member who headed up the media portion of the team. The Worship team is responsible for ensuring that everything necessary is done to make all worship services run smoothly. We organize volunteers to set up and take down decorations to celebrate the seasons within the church year. Marge Kollmansberger changes the paraments to coordinate with the church calendar. Mary Wussow and Paul Untiet select music for the choir and bell choir, along with recruiting new members and scheduling practice times. The team has been incorporating contemporary music services also. Media services continue to evolve and enrich our church services both in church and in the family center. Marge Redetzke does the secretarial duties and is key to arrange pulpit-fill pastor when Pastor Sue is absent. Brenda Huther recruits and trains volunteers for church functions, such as ushers, acolytes, etc. Our worship team leads, but we really appreciate everyone who is willing to help with the many things that keep our church beautiful. Respectfully submitted by: Lois Miller, Chair LIBRARY REPORT 2017 Budgeted for 2017 $ Gift $ Total $ Books Purchased $

20 About 35 books were added to the church library collection this year, including purchases and gifts. The library is open to anyone and items may be checked out at any time. Just write your name and the date the item is being checked out and drop the card in the slot on the desk. Don t forget to return your items when you have finished so they are available for others. Respectfully submitted by, Judy Polege, Librarian STAFF SUPPORT This was a difficult year as we said goodbye to Ben Natzke, Director of Christian Ministry, in July after being here since He was very respected by many and will be missed. One of the areas that Zion wanted to grow was our music ministry and Ben did bring the energy and background to do this. Ben very much lived his faith. With Ben s announcement, a taskforce was put together in search of another full time Director of Christian Ministry. Another change that the Staff Support Team saw this year was the resignation of two of our members. I would like to say thank you to Ellen Leick and Patrick Wrench for their years of serving on the team. Ellen served as the chair for several years and did a great job keeping the team on task. I would like to welcome and thank Melissa Mikelson and Keith Grell for joining the Staff Support Team; they have both been a wonderful addition to the team and bring a wealth of knowledge. We are still looking for an additional team member; if you would be interested in serving on the Staff Support Team, please feel free to contact me. Respectfully submitted, Keresa Kilty COMMUNITY FUND (GERMANFEST) TREASURER S REPORT 2017 BEGINNING BALANCE $13, INCOME Germanfest Dinner Ticket Sales $5, Meat Donations $ Donation - Miscellaneous $

21 Extra Food $ Bake Sale/ Sauerkraut $ Interest Earned $16.94 Thrivent Seed Money $ Total Income $8, TOTAL $21, EXPENSES Germanfest Dinner Meat and Bread $1, Milk $77.50 Stratford Sign $0.00 Building Usage (to Zion) $ Gifts Given in 2017 $8, Total Expenses $9, BALANCE 12/31/17 $11, This year we served 577 people 290 in the dining room and 287 carryouts. Thank you to everyone who donated and/or gave of their time and talents to help with the Germanfest dinner. We couldn't do it without the help of so many willing people. Respectfully submitted by, Vicki Hughes CEMETERY TEAM REPORT 2017 Members of the Cemetery Team are Tom & Nancy Schoenherr, Harold Wrensch, and Marge Hayes. There were three burials this past year. Lawn mowing of both cemeteries was done by Randy Schwantes. There is a sign in both cemeteries that reads: SUMMER SEASON (May 1 st -Nov. 15 th ) Artificial bouquets must be attached or placed close to monuments for mowing purposes. Shrubs & tree planting need to be approved by the Cemetery Team. Winter Season (Nov. 15 th Apr. 15 th ) Wreaths & floral arrangements must be securely attached to the monument & must be removed by April 15 th. The Cemetery Team will throw all artificial flowers & decorations away if not taken off the monument by April 15 th. When flowers are taken off, please take them home with you. Things done this past year Five large pine trees that were uprooted during a summer storm were removed and the lawn in that area was filled in and reseeded. A number of monuments have been straightened. Many veteran stones have been raised. Records of cemetery plots and burials have been updated and put on a flash drive for safe keeping. Maps of burial sites have also been updated. 21

22 Things that need to be done Finish straightening some stones. Finish lifting the veteran stones. Try to clean some stones. Hopefully get family members to help with maintaining their monuments and the area around them. ANYONE INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER OF THE CEMETERY TEAM, PLEASE CONTACT TOM SCHOENHERR OR THE CHURCH OFFICE. Submitted by Tom Schoenherr CEMETERY FINANCIAL REPORT 2017 Savings Account Balance $ 1, INCOME Interest from Savings Account 3.08 Interest from SSB CD Interest from ELCA Fund Sale of Lots Total Income $ TOTAL $2, EXPENSES Lot Buy Back Repair & Straightening of Grave Markers TOTAL EXPENSES $1, TRANSFER OF FUNDS 2017 Interest to General Checking TOTAL TRANSFERS & EXPENSES $-1, Savings Account Balance $ 1, INVESTMENTS SSB C.D (Automatic Renewal) 17, ** Matures ELCA Mission Fund Account # , Matures ELCA Mission Fund Account # , Matures TOTAL INVESTMENTS $20, Respectfully submitted by: Marge Hayes, Treasurer 22

23 RENTAL HOUSE REPORT 2017 Wiesman Weber Debt Total 721 Third 224 Oak Reduction (1) Cash Balance $ 4, $ 1, $ 7, *Refundable Security Deposit $ $ $15, INCOME Rent received $ 7, $ 6, Envelope Contributions $ 4, EXPENSES Loan principal $(23,000.00) Loan Interest $ (920.00) Security Dep. Refund $ (575.00) $ (550.00) Insurance / Utilities $ (304.00) $ Repairs/Maintenance $ $ (34.48) Taxes, Garbage, Recycling $ (1,833.62) $ (1,832.81) CASH BALANCE $ 10, $(17,290.03) $11, $ 4, Remainder to carry over to 2018 $- $- $- Transferred to Current Expense Account Submitted by Adam Maguire, Treasurer ZION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH TRUST FUND REPORT 2017 Trust/Memorial end of year report Beginning balance , Income Mission Investment fund Thrivent Investment Honors and Memorials 1, Expenses None + 2, Ending balance $10, Summary of accounts *SSB checking 10, Thrivent (as of ) 24, ELCA Mission 10, The current trust/memorial fund members include June Krueger, Stacia Burrows, Wendy Grell and Pastor Sue for guidance. This year no checks were written. Please contact us if you have any needs or updates for the church. Thank you and God bless all the families and friends who have been generous with their donations this year. Respectfully submitted Wendy Grell * Stratford State Bank became Partner s Bank in June of

24 BUILDING FUND FINANCIAL REPORT 2017 Beginning principal loan balance at *Partners Bank $ 449, Total monthly principal payments thru ( 23,110.05) Additional principal payment ( 20,000.00) Principal balance of loan , Interest paid in 2017 was $17, Respectfully submitted by, Vicki Hughes * Stratford State Bank became Partner s Bank in June of 2017 BUILDING FUND TREASURER S REPORT 2017 *Partners Bank Checking Account Beginning balance $25, Deposits for , ELCA tithe ( 3,096.00) Principal loan payments ( 20,000.00) Loan payments to ( 40,300.00) Ending balance for Partner s Bank Checking $ 25, Respectfully submitted by, Vicki Hughes * Stratford State Bank became Partner s Bank in June of 2017 ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH TREASURER'S REPORT December 31, 2017 Submitted by Adam Maguire, Treasurer CHECKBOOK BALANCE -- January 1, 2017 $ 42, INCOME: Offerings -- Current Expense $ 187, Ketchup $ 2, Loose/Initial $ 4, Salaries $ 10, Use of Facilities/Equipment $ Utilities $ 9, TOTAL INCOME $ 214,

25 EXPENSES: Ministry through the Extended Church $ Ministry at Home $ Administration $ 145, Team Budgets $ 44, Other Expenses $ 1, TOTAL EXPENSES $ 191, Net Income -- December 31, 2017 $ 22, DESIGNATED FUNDS (Carry over into 2018) Benevolence $ Choir Fund $ Confirmation Camp (fees) $ 1, Confirmation gowns etc (In/Out) $ Council/Pastor $ 8, Evangelism $ Experience Faith! Mission Trip $ 6, Fair Trade $ In/Out $ 1, Kid's Globe Offering $ Kitchen Wares $ 1, Puppet Ministry $ Thrivent $ TOTAL DESIGNATED FUNDS $ 23, Closing Checkbook Balance 2017 (Net Income + Designated Funds) $ 45, BENEVOLENCE -- Ministry to the World Proposed Goal 2017 Actual Percent ELCA Benevolence 10% $ 16, $ 17, % 1 - Lutheran Social Services $ 1, $ 1, % 2 - Missionary $ 3, $ 4, % 3 - Crossways Camping Ministries $ 2, $ 2, % 4 - ELCA World Hunger Appeal $ 3, $ 3, % 5 - Bold Generosity $ 2, $ 2, % $ 29, $ 32, % 2018 MISSION PLAN (Budget) 25

26 BENEVOLENCE Approved 2018 Proposed 2017 Actual MINISTRY TO THE WORLD 1 Lutheran Social Services $1, $1, $1, Missionary $3, $4, $3, Crossways $2, $2, $2, ELCA World Hunger Appeal $3, $3, $3, Bold Generosity $2, $2, TOTAL MINIMUM BENEVOLENCE GOAL $11, $14, $13, BENEVOLENCE EXPENSE 100 MINISTRY THROUGH EXTENDED CHURCH 101 ELCA Ministry Benevolence *** $16, $17, $16, Chequamegon Conference Benevolence $ $ Local Benevolence $ $ FCA Scholarship $ $ $ Synod Assembly Offering $ $ $ TOTAL $16, $18, $16, *** 10% CURRENT EXPENSES 200 MINISTRY AT HOME 201 Synod Resource Center $ $ $ TOTAL MINISTRY AT HOME $ $ $ ADMINISTRATION 300 STAFF COMPENSATION 301 Custodian Salaries $15, $10, $15, a Custodian FICA (church FICA) $1, $ $1, Organist Salaries $1, $1, $1, a Organist FICA (church FICA) $ $ $ Secretary Salary $15, $13, $15, a Secretary FICA (church FICA) $1, $1, $1, b Conference (Soul Support) $ $ $ Pastor Salary $46, $46, $47, a Pastor FICA $4, $4, $4, b Housing Equity $2, $2, $2, c Auto Allowance $3, $3, $3, d Continuing Ed/Book & Journal Allowance $2, $1, $2, e Sabbatical Cost $0.00 $0.00 $ f Pastor's Official Meeting Cost $ $ $ Pulpit Supply $ $ $ Ministry Coordinator $0.00 $0.00 $ a Ministry Coordinator FICA $0.00 $0.00 $ Director of Congregational Ministry Salary $33, $18, $25, a DCM FICA $2, $1, $1, b DCM Continuing Education $1, $0.00 $ c DCM Mileage $ $ $ TOTAL STAFF COMPENSATION $133, $108, $126,345.71

27 400 STAFF BENEFITS 401 Medical & Disability Insurance $16, $16, $17, Insurance Deductible $ $ $ Retirement $8, $8, $9, DCM Medical Reimbursement $4, $3, $4, TOTAL STAFF BENEFITS $29, $28, $31, OFFICE 501 Telephone $2, $2, $2, a Web Design & Upkeep $ $ $ Postage & Mailings $2, $1, $2, Office Supplies $2, $1, $1, Office Equipment Repair $ $ $ a Copier-Duplicator $1, $1, $1, TOTAL OFFICE $8, $7, $8, OTHER 601 Conferences & Conventions $ $ Other Expenses $ $ $ Pastoral Call $0.00 $ Finance Expenses $ $ $ TOTAL OTHER $1, $1, $1, TOTAL ADMINISTRATION $172, $145, $166, Approved 2017 Actual 2018 Proposed TEAMS 701 WORSHIP 701a Altar Supplies $ $ $ b Music $ $ $ c Bulletins 0.00 $0.00 $ d Piano & Organ Repair/Maintenance $ $0.00 $ e Worship (Liturgy) Resources $ $ $ f Copyright $ $ $ g Media $ $0.00 $ TOTAL WORSHIP $2, $1, $2, STEWARDSHIP 702a Offerings Envelope $1, $ $1, b General $0.00 $0.00 $ d Stewardship Program $ $24.99 $ TOTAL STEWARDSHIP $1, $ $1, EVANGELISM 703a Fellowship $ $ $ b Advertising $ $77.50 $ c Christ In Our Home $ $ $

28 703d New Members $ $0.00 $ e Box Holder $ $0.00 $ f Workshops $ $0.00 $ g Social Concerns $50.00 $0.00 $ h Stamps $ $92.25 $ i Hospitality $ $0.00 $ TOTAL EVANGELISM $ $ $1, PROPERTY 705a Church Repairs $5, $7, $5, b Church Supplies $1, $1, $1, c Parsonage Repairs/Maintenance $2, $ $2, d Lawn Mowing (cemetery upkeep) $3, $3, $3, e Fuel-Church & Parsonage $7, $5, $7, f Elec/Water/Sewer/Phone-Church/Parsonage $9, $8, $9, g Insurance $12, $10, $12, h New Equipment $1, $0.00 $1, i Snow Removal $1, $1, $1, j Building Investigation 705k Meditation Garden $ $0.00 $ TOTAL PROPERTY $42, $37, $42, FAITH FORMATION MINISTRY 706a Sunday School Materials $0.00 $0.00 $ b Little Lutherans & J Team $ $1, $1, c VBS $1, $ $1, d Puppets $ $0.00 $ e Confirmation Materials $ $ $ f YAZ $ $0.00 $ g Adult Leaders (Chaperones) $ $0.00 $ h Milestones Ministry $2, $ $2, i Cross+Generational Ministry $ $ $ j Continuing Ed-Youth/Adult $ $0.00 $ k Library $ $36.69 $ TOTAL FAITH FORMATION $6, $3, $6, TOTAL TEAMS $55, $44, $55, BUDGET SUMMARY ELCA BENEVOLENCE EXPENSE $16, $18, $16, TOTAL MINISTRY AT HOME $ $ $ TOTAL ADMINISTRATION $172, $145, $166, TOTAL TEAMS $55, $44, $55, TOTAL BUDGETED EXPENSES $245, $208, $239,