Columbus Mennonite Church 35 Oakland Park Avenue, Columbus, OH 43214

614-784-9002

www.columbusmennonite.org

Annual

Report

2019

Congregational Meeting

May 5, 2019

11:00 am

2

Congregational Meeting Agenda, May 5, 2019, 11:00 am

1. Membership Commitment Approval

2. Budget Surplus Proposal (details to follow)

3. Introducing Open Questions and Visions for CMC

4. Approval of Leadership Slate for 2019-20 (paper ballots /proxy votes allowed)

5. Mark's Ordination Announcement

6. Highlights from our Annual Report

3

Columbus Mennonite Church Membership Commitment

The Spirit calls us from where we are

to walk with Jesus

toward a more just, peaceful, and merciful embodiment

of God’s love in this world.

Ours is a story

of those who journeyed by faith,

whose questions opened fresh possibilities.

Ours is a story

grounded in scripture, centered on Jesus,

re-envisioned by Anabaptists, ever-expanding in our time.

Ours is a story

of death and resurrection and all things made new.

To live more fully into this story,

as individuals and as a congregation, we commit to:

Gather for worship and around the table

where everyone is welcome;

Learn from one another,

allowing the wisdom of all ages to teach us;

Honor all seasons of life,

caring for one another through joys and hardships;

Share our time and resources,

discerning our call to both work and rest;

Love our neighbors and enemies,

pursuing wholistic peace with justice;

Care for the gift of creation

out of gratitude and responsibility;

Seek transformation through prayerful listening,

growing toward the fullness of our humanity.

Because we often fall short of this high calling,

we will extend compassion and forgiveness as we journey together.

By God’s grace, may we be a sanctuary,

where we welcome, protect, and challenge one another.

4

Leadership Slate 2019-2020

Pastor

Joel Miller

Pastor of Christian Formation

Mark Rupp

Leadership Team

>Members at Large

Tim Stried (replacement) 1 yr

#Katie Graber 2 yr

Scott Applegate 3 yr

>Secretary

Dan Halterman 1 yr

>Treasurer

Judy Hartzler 2 yr

>Mission Coordinator

JoAnn Knapke 3 yr

Christian Education Commission

>Children and Youth

Chelsey Steiner 1 yr

Jon Lucas 1 yr

#Christina Massey 2 yr

Annie Trance 2 yr

>Adults

Ryan Schellenberg 2 yr

Yvonne Zimmerman 2 yr

>Junior Youth Sponsors

Chaska Yoder 1 yr

Kelsey and Mike Ryan-Simkins 2 yr

>Senior Youth Sponsors

Kerry Strayer 1 yr

Sarah Werner 2 yr

Community Life Commission

#Erin Kelty 1 yr

Shakita Kabicek 1 yr

Cindy Fath 2 yr

Karen Mareco 2 yr

Facilities Commission

#Phil Hart 1 yr

Fred Suter 1 yr

Jim Myers 2 yr

Bill Plessinger 2 yr

Shepherding Commission

#Larry Less 1 yr

Anna Diller-Stried 1 yr

Steve Rolfe 2 yr

Erin Neese 2 yr

Worship Commission

#Joanna Suter 1 yr

Tom Blosser 1 yr

Tim McCarthy 1 yr

Elisa Leahy 2 yr

Joel Call 2 yr

5

Congregational Meeting Minutes, Nov & Dec 2018

Columbus Mennonite Church Congregational Meeting Minutes November 4, 2018 Following Sunday morning worship during regular Sunday school hour; Sanctuary Number present: Approximately 80

Budget presentation by Peter Yoder with clarifications from Ellen Kreider. Proposed budget shows 3.5% increase

for professional staff. Current deficit projection is less than $7,800. Congregation offered no significant ques-

tions or comments.

Updating of membership statement presented by Peter Yoder. The 1995 statement, a slight revision of the 1960s

version, is outdated. Proposed update will start with a joint Leadership Team – Ministry Council meeting in

November, with the goal of preparing a process to be presented for congregational approval at the May 2019

congregational meeting.

Mark Rupp seeking ordination – Mark was licensed in 2014; MCUSA ordination typically follows 2-4 years of licen-

sure. Mark will request Leadership Team to submit letter to Central District Conference requesting start of the

ordination process, and welcomes congregational input as it proceeds.

Providing sanctuary update presented by Peter Yoder and Austin McCabe Juhnke – we observed the one-year anni-

versary of Sanctuary for Edith with a community meeting in our church; City Council delayed voting on a reso-

lution in support of Edith; and a public rally downtown. We met in small groups to discuss “Who we were be-

fore Sanctuary,” “How Sanctuary has changed us,” and “What does the future hold?”, then the groups report-

ed to the larger group. Those notes, reflecting strong affirmation of this work while acknowledging initial dis-

comfort and ongoing learning and growth, will be compiled separately.

Evacuation (fire) drill discussion – Phil Hart described building security ideas being discussed by Leadership Team

and Facilities Commission: The front door of the church be open and unlocked only between 9:00 and 9:45 on

Sundays, and Sanctuarians will open the door for participants arriving after 9:45 and for those seeking re-entry

during and after Christian Education hour; recruit Sanctuarians so that there will be two present in the foyer

for worship services, Christian Education hour and special events; continued training for Sanctuarian volun-

teers. Phil then described the evacuation practice to follow the meeting. Joel said grace for the potluck, and

we adjourned via the practice evacuation to enjoy the potluck.

Submitted by Dan Halterman, November 12, 2018

COLUMBUS MENNONITE CHURCH CONGREGATIONAL BUSINESS MEETING DECEMBER 2, 2018 IN THE SANCTUARY FOLLOWING THE WORSHIP SERVICE Approximately 80 in attendance.

The sole agenda item, voting on the proposed FY 2019 budget, was presented by Barb Gant who described the adjust-ments to the preliminary budget to virtually eliminate the deficit.

Julie Hart moved to accept the budget. Al Bauman seconded. Blank slips of paper were distributed for voting Yes or No or Y or N.

The budget passed with 78 Yes and 1 No.

Submitted by Dan Halterman, December 8, 2018

6

Pastor Report

Sabbatical and Sanctuary were major themes for me this past year. The three months away were a wonderful time of

renewal and family connection. It was good knowing the congregation was following a similar focus through guest

speakers, new banners, and the offer of spiritual direction. Our sanctuary commitment has led to a significant increase

in what one might call public ministry. I have frequently been in the position of representing the church to the local

media, film projects, inquiries, and at community events. I have found this to be both energizing and challenging in

balancing the other pastoral tasks.

Preaching, Worship, and Teaching

On weeks I preach, I budget about 1/5 - 1/4 of my time for sermon study, writing, and review/practice. Of the 40 Sun-

days in the past year (excluding the 12 during Sabbatical), I preached 23 of them. This is slightly less frequent than past

years. I especially enjoyed the collaborative sermon presentations that included a musical or sketch component. I also

worship led four times, which is more than past years.

In the fall, I taught a nine week Adult Inquirers class. In the winter, I met with the four elementary school aged classes

to talk broadly about the Bible. In the spring, I am teaching a nine week Bible study on the book of Ruth.

Administration/Head of Staff

As head of staff, I lead weekly meetings of our administrative and pastoral staff. I also conduct annual reviews of our

Pastor of Christian Formation, Administrator, and Administrative Assistant. The four of us have gotten into the (good)

habit of an annual staff retreat - looking back and forward and setting personal goals. We continue to clarify our roles

and job descriptions.

Leadership Team has been studying Governance and Ministry by Dan Hotchkiss and shifting its focus toward visioning

and policy, entrusting ministry leadership to staff, commissions, and other leaders. A recent LT retreat set a vision and

areas of focus for the coming year.

I also lead quarterly meetings of the Ministry Council (Commission chairs + staff).

Pastoral Care

+ Two child dedications

+ Marriage prep counseling with one couple

+ Officiated at one wedding

+ Conducted one baptism

+ Officiated at one memorial service

+ Home and hospital visits, and share meals

+ Birthday and anniversary cards (I have not done these consistently post-Sabbatical because of time constraints but

hope to resume)

+ Pizza with the Pastors for new attenders

+ Working closely with Shepherding Commission to address needs as they arise

Sanctuary

+ Spoke at Yellow Springs sanctuary event

+ Panel member for Religion News Service convention, Columbus

+ Hosted four Columbus City Council members visiting Edith

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Pastor Report, continued

+ Spoke at TEDx Columbus, “Sanctuary for Edith: Immigration and Solidarity”

+ Visited The Netherlands to participate in the 24/7 vigil for asylum at Bethel Church in The Haag

+ Op-Ed in the February 14th Dispatch, “Valentine’s Day Message: Love Thy Neighbor”

+ Spoke at the passing of Columbus City Council resolution supporting Edith and Miriam Vargas

+ Interviews for three different film projects related to sanctuary

+ Spoke at The Faces and Faiths of Sanctuary, Just North UCC

Community/Denominational Ministry

+ Central District Conference Gifts Discernment Committee

+ Mennonite Jewish Relations Committee (MC USA)

+ Interfaith Justice Table (monthly breakfast meetings and various press conferences and meeting with city leaders)

+ BREAD clergy caucus

Ongoing learning, reading, and listening

+ Attended AMBS Pastors and Leaders Week. Theme: “Loving our Neighbors in Tense Times.”

+ Attended annual Faith and Leaders Symposium at Columbus Foundation, sponsored by ADAMH

Some good books I read this past year:

The Moral Imagination: The Art and Soul of Building Peace, by John Paul Lederach

Remnants: A Memoir of Spirit, Activism, and Mothering, by Rosemary Freeney Harding and Rachel

Elizabeth Harding

Governance and Ministry: Rethinking Board Leadership, Second Edition, by Dan Hotchkiss

The Pastor Wears a Skirt: Stories of Gender and Ministry, by Dorothy Nickel Friesen

Love in a Fearful Land: A Guatemalan Story, Henri Nouwen

Shattered Hope: The Guatemalan Revolution and the United States: 1944-1954, by Piero Gleijeses

Varieties of Gifts: Multiplicity and the Well-Lived Pastoral Life, Cynthia G. Lindner

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion, by Jonathan Haidt

I subscribe to The Dispatch, The New York Times, Christian Century, Yes Magazine, The Mennonite, and Mennonite

World Review.

Podcasts I listen to regularly:

On Being, Krista Tippet

Still Processing, Jenna Wortham and Wesley Morris

Radiolab, Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich

-Joel Miller

8

Pastor of Christian Formation Report

Writing this annual report always gives me a chance to both look back on the previous year of ministry and to begin to

dream for the future. My report from the previous year ended right before the beginning of my sabbatical, so it seems

appropriate to pick up where that one left off.

My plan was to use my time away from the congregation to grow in the area of ministry with youth. I did not design

my sabbatical in such a way that there was a concrete project or goal to work toward, but I was able to interview a few

people who do this work and read a few books on the topic that have continued to shape my ideas for CMC’s youth

programming. I was also able to attend a conference for people who work with youth in MCUSA, and found this to be

a generative time that helped me make some good connections with others doing similar work.

On a more personal level, the sabbatical also allowed me to begin exploring the practice of yoga, which I have contin-

ued throughout the year since the sabbatical. I have found this practice to be immensely helpful to me on both a per-

sonal and professional level in that the meditative aspects provide a strong, grounding foundation for facing stressful

situations. I believe that this practice has allowed me to be a calmer, less reactive presence, which is certainly im-

portant in my work of ministry.

Almost immediately after my sabbatical ended, Joel’s sabbatical began, which meant I spent the summer as a solo, full-

time pastor for the first time. This was definitely a challenge, but I appreciated the support and affirmation I received

throughout. This time helped me learn to trust my own gifts for leadership; however, I was more than happy to have

Joel return at the end of the summer.

Working in the many different areas of Christian Education has continued to dominate my time. Over the past year, I

continued to teach the High School Sunday School class where we explored diverse topics such as Christian Ethics, gun

control, spiritual practices, and catechism. This continues to be an area that I enjoy, especially the freedom to adapt

and develop new curriculum. We are coming to the end of a four-year cycle of topics for the High School class, and I

will look forward to refining what we’ve done as we plan for the future.

I took on a much larger role with the youth groups this year. We started the year with fewer sponsors than normal for

both the MYF and the Jr. MYF, and early in the year, I ended up releasing the MYF sponsors from their commitment so

that they could fully pursue participation in a new faith community. This meant that planning and implementing activi-

ties for the both groups was almost completely in my hands. I was able to enlist the help of some of the parents, a few

current mentors, and our pastoral intern, Rachael Miller, and I would not have been able to do much without their

help. In the end, I believe we have had a very successful year. You can read the Christian Education report for a better

picture of the kinds of things we did this year, but I do want to highlight that we had 5 high school youth and 9 junior

high youth attend the Winter Retreats at Camp Friedenswald. Increased participation with camping programs has al-

ways been a goal of mine, and I was happy to have so many youth from both groups attend these retreats.

My work with the younger children at CMC is somewhat limited, but I once again enjoyed helping with Vacation Bible

School. Because my sabbatical came during peak VBS planning time, I took on a smaller role than I have in previous

years. I was able to give leadership to the worship/drama portion of the week as well as filling in for various other

roles.

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Pastor of Christian Formation Report, continued

Outside of Christian Education, my work involves coordinating small groups. Last year, I began to organize hosts for a

new Young Adult Dinner Group. There was strong affirmation from participants that these gatherings were very mean-

ingful spaces for connection, so I have continued to help organize that group. I have also helped make connections

that have led to the formation of a few other new groups. Small Groups continue to be one of the main things that

people who are new to CMC show interest in as a way to get better connected, so I try to keep in mind what current

groups would be a good fit for new people or what new groups might need to be formed.

Last year was a big year for weddings, but this year, I only officiated for one couple. I was also able to provide pre-

marriage counseling for one other couple.

In the area of worship, I have preached 7 times, led worship 4 times, provided music and/or songleading 5 times, and

helped with or led Children’s Time 6 times over the last year. Along with these leadership roles, I also planned and led

our Ash Wednesday service and helped coordinate the Coming of Age service with the Junior High Sunday School Class.

During the summer, I also coordinated with the many guest speakers while Joel was on sabbatical.

I have continued to enjoy participating in the Pastor Peer gatherings through Central District Conference, and have

found those relationships to be important sources of wisdom and encouragement. Within CDC, I also recently started

serving on the Missional Church Committee, which works to resource congregations in many different areas. This com-

mittee is exploring what it might mean to resource congregations in the area of Youth Ministry, so I have been involved

in a number of additional conversations to dream together about what that might look like.

Lastly, over the past year I decided to move forward with pursuing ordination. This has involved some good conversa-

tions, some personal reflection, and lots of writing in response to specific questions about my call to ministry and my

understanding of theology. For the final step in the process, I will be interviewed by the Ministerial Committee of CDC

in mid-April. Pending their approval, I will hopefully be ordained this summer.

It has certainly been a full year, and it does not look like it is slowing down any time soon. One of my biggest takea-

ways from the past year has been a growing awareness of and trust in my own leadership gifts. In the coming year, I

look forward to continuing to lean into those gifts, especially as I lead our Christian Education Committee through a

process to think about what goals and vision it wants to pursue.

10

Leadership Team Report

As the changes from the old administrative team format to the new leadership team became established, we made an

effort to focus on policy, budgetary issues, and the broader vision of CMC this past year.

We found that we need more formalized policies as our congregation grows. Some of the policies developed were:

service dog policy; church service cancelation policy; and clearer job descriptions for pastors and staff.

After the budget has been accepted by the congregation, Leadership Team will have a more hands off approach, only

dealing with larger spending needs, as well as Leadership Team duties. This will allow individual commissions to work

out the goals of their ministry as they see fit. We were fortunate to have a surplus again this year. It’s wonderful to

have a generous congregation that allows us to continue and expand the mission of the church. We are grateful for the

capable and diligent treasurer, Judy Hartzler and accountant, Ellen Kreider who are generous with their time and skills.

The concepts that captured our imagination this year are continued work with sanctuary and how we as a church can

practice it. With Edith spending over 500 days in sanctuary at our church, we are thankful for the support from the con-

gregation, and the community. The whole exploration has enhanced our lives. Thanks to the church staff, and support

team for the extra effort given to this mission.

As we plan for the new year, questions that we will be asking are: How will we respond to growth? How can we better

cultivate leadership? How can we discern the focus of our relationship with our neighbors and our outward ministry?

Vision for ministry will be to expand our support for the gifts and needs of all ages and to explore the dimensions of

Sanctuary.

In November, Leadership Team chose a committee to develop a new membership commitment. With input from the

congregation, the new commitment will better reflect who we are and what membership means to us today.

Mark Rupp will be ordained on June 9. Leadership Team and the congregation are excited to support Mark and his call

to ministry.

Last summer, Mark, and then Joel were on sabbatical. We want to especially thank Gwen and Mim for their extra

work, as well as the commissions. Also, we are grateful for the special services and banners that were provided from

the Lilly Grant. The congregation benefited from this time.

We appreciate the outstanding work of our pastors and church staff. Their guidance is important to Leadership Team.

Submitted by Pete Yoder, chair, on behalf of the Leadership Team members, Barb Gant, Melonie Buller, Judy Hartzler,

Dan Halterman, Katie Graber, Joel Miller

11

2018 Treasurer’s Report

Following is a summary of our budget performance for the 2018 fiscal year.

Actual Budget Variance

INCOME

OFFERINGS 367,617.12 357,312.00 10,305.12

USE OF BUILDING 5,000.00 5,000.00 0

SABBATICAL GRANT 50,000.00 50,000.00 0

TOTAL INCOME 422,617.12 412,312.00 10,305.12

EXPENSES

PASTOR 118,393.11 118,888.00 * (494.89)

PASTOR OF CHRISTIAN FORMATION 54,706.55 55,512.00 (805.45)

PASTORAL INTERN 1,750.00 2,000.00 (250.00)

ADMINISTRATION 101,100.31 111,078.76 (10,018.00)

FACILITIES COMMISSION 51,932.40 47,624.00 4,308.40

MISSIONS/OUTREACH 52,616,65 52,780.00 (163.35)

MISSION COMMISSION 673.75 1,500.00 (826.25)

SHEPHERDING TEAM 5,492.51 7,450.00 (1,957.49)

WORSHIP COMMISSION 8,278.93 8,643.00 (364.07)

COMMUNITY LIFE COMMISSION 5,725.78 5,875.00 (149.22)

EDUCATION COMMISSION 7,719,35 7,875.00 (155.65)

TOTAL EXPENSES 408,389.34 419.225.76 * (10,836.42)

*Overall budgeted expenses were much higher than in 2017 due to the inclusion of expenses related to the sabbatical

grant of $50,000, which included professional expenses for Joel as well as activities and services planned for the congre-

gation during the sabbatical period.

While the overall budget had a deficit of over $6900, adult offerings exceeded projected income by over $10,300, and

most expense budget categories were under budget for total spending; thus we anticipate a surplus of over $14,000.

Leadership Team will be bringing a proposal for use of this surplus to the annual meeting.

The Columbus Mennonite Church congregation was very generous in its giving again this year. Not only did we exceed

our budgeted offerings, but non-budgeted income included some significant contributions, including Renovation Fund

($26,917), Piecemakers’ Knotting Party ($3064), Compassion Fund ($2853) and over $5090 in non-budgeted giving to

various mission projects, including International Friendships, NNEMAP, BREAD, SIM (David Emch), Habitat, and CRC.

Over $21,000 augmented the Sanctuary Fund from both internal and external sources though both donations and fund-

raising efforts. Other fundraising activities also raised additional money: MYF Convention/Service Fund ($1656), plant

sale ($2300), and Craft Fair ($375).

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2018 Treasurer’s Report, continued

Non-budgeted expenses included payments from the Scholarship Fund ($2000); Building Fund ($3540); Piecemakers’

Fund ($5235); Children’s Offering Fund ($522 to MCC Education Project); Mission Project Fund ($2000); CPT Volunteer

Fund ($7250); Sanctuary ($12,328) and Compassion Fund ($5650). We also made payments toward our renovation loan

(including interest) totaling $51,576.

The 2018 end of year Cash Statement is as follows:

SAVINGS FUNDS

Reserve Fund 37,001.60 Volunteer Support Fund 4,013.04

Renovation Fund 21,462.78 CPT Volunteer Fund 13,306.53

Scholarship Fund 11,742.45 Piecemakers’ Fund 5,007.69

Bequests & Memorials Fund 2,109.51 Compassion Fund 4,251.95

Building Fund 28,983.36 MYF Convention/Service Fund 12,804.05

Aesthetics Fund 736.91 Education Commission Fund 616.81

Sowing Circle Fund 600.00 MYF Activities Fund 280.28

Mission Project Fund 4,161.15 Children’s Offering Fund 85.93

Connecting People Fund 946.45 Sabbatical Fund 2,880.81 **

Counter Recruiting Fund 1,218.30 Sanctuary Fund 11,489.33

TOTAL SAVINGS 163,698.93

CHECKING ACCOUNT 28,211.76

TOTAL BANK ACCOUNTS 191,910.69

**Sabbatical Fund was established through a Lilly Foundation Grant and was used to pay some of Joel’s sabbatical ex-

penses as well as fund congregational activities during the sabbatical period. Any amount remaining after Joel’s taxes are

paid is returned to the Lilly Foundation.

The biggest areas of financial concern at the end of 2018 are the Renovation Fund and anticipated repairs to the building.

With cash received to date, outstanding pledges through 2020, $5000 from the 2018 budget, and $20,000 from 2017 sur-

plus funds, we still face a deficit of over $5700 to pay off the loan, even if all pledge money is received. We anticipate that

some of the pledges will not be paid, since we have experienced a turnover in attendance by some who originally pledged

funds. We need to continue to find funds toward a loan payoff in 2021.

My deep thanks again to Kathy Bauman, Jeri Arent, and Becky Waybill for continuing to donate time counting and deposit-

ing Sunday morning offerings, to Gwen Reiser who assists with technology and office tasks, and to Ellen Kreider who do-

nated many hours of work in her accounting/bookkeeping duties. Any requests for additional financial details or explana-

tions should be directed to Judy or Ellen (treasurers@columbusmennonite.com).

-Judy Hartzler, Treasurer

13

2019 Budget

14

2019 Budget, continued

15

2019 Budget, continued

16

Mission Coordinator Report

Perhaps you think everything “mission” runs through the Mission Coordinator, but so much of this work just seems to

happen. Good and faithful people provide leadership and organize us to provide for those in need, to serve meals, to

accompany those needing allies, to advocate for changes in policies and institutions, and to raise money to support our

activity in the world.

Mission Activities in 2017-2018

BREAD: The Big BREAD Machine continued to work to expand the network of CMCers participating in this ministry of

advocacy for justice in Franklin County. On May 6, CMCers will join with members of about 45 other Central Ohio con-

gregations at the Celeste Center on the Ohio State Fairgrounds for the Nehemiah Action Meeting to ask our public offi-

cials to change policies or to initiate new programs.

Christian Peacemaker Teams: Jim Leonard and Barbara and Dan Lehman participated in a delegation Palestine/Israel;

they reported on what the saw and experienced to CMC and to the wider community. The rummage sale returns this

summer to support participation in future delegations (and other CMC activities).

Clintonville Resource Center: Each Sunday in February, we contributed breakfast casseroles, eggs, sausage, cereal,

fruit, milk, orange juice, etc. to provide a hot breakfast at the Clintonville Resource Center for those people living in the

Clintonville neighborhood who are hungry (for food or perhaps for companionship). Several adults, the junior youth,

and the MYF were servers.

Connecting Peoples: During his sabbatical, Joel Miller and daughter Eve visited our sister congregation in Armenia, Co-

lombia, to continue to deepen this relationship. The small group continues to seek ways to work at this. When lighting

the peace candle, worship leaders usually note that we light it in solidarity with our Sister.

CROP Walk: Several adults and children participated in the local CROP walk to raise money for hunger programs in

Central Ohio and around the world.

Mennonite Central Committee: We collected school kits and hygiene kits MCC’s relief work in refugee camps and oth-

er places where people are experiencing displacement or trauma.

NNEMAP: We collected 62 grooming kits.

Piecemakers: This open ministry group of CMC folks and others meets twice a month to assemble comforters. We

dedicated and sent 223 comforters to Mennonite Central Committee for distribution to refugees and others in crisis.

Once again they invited the entire congregation to the annual Knotting Party to raise funds and to knot comforters.

Refugee Support: A small group provides support for an Iraqi refugee family resettled in Columbus. Celebrating holi-

days and birthdays, supporting the family through doctors’ appointments and the insurance process after a car acci-

dent, and visiting are among the ways the group demonstrated care and hospitality.

Sanctuary: Edith Espinal continued to live in sanctuary in the Columbus Mennonite building. In January, Edith’s hus-

band Manuel moved to San Francisco so that his case for asylum might receive a fair hearing. Central Ohio Worker

Center began working in partnership with our Sanctuary Committee to organize and to fundraise. This partnership cre-

ated awareness that on February 14 Edith had lived in sanctuary for 500 days. Significant funds were raised for family

support and legal expenses. Austin McCabe Juhnke chairs the Sanctuary Committee and provides regular updates

through email. Pastor Joel Miller has developed new relationships because of sanctuary. We continue to be blessed by

good partners and broad community support from Central Ohioans and from the wider Mennonite community.

YMCA Family Center: Every month (except February) on the second Tuesday, CMCers joined with friends from North

Broadway UMC to provide dinner for families at the YWCA Family Center in the Milo Grogan neighborhood.

17

Statistics, April 11, 2018-April 19, 2019

We welcomed 13 new members.

Chris Coble 13-May-18 Nathan Miller 13-May-18

Mardene Kelley 13-May-18 Kristen Moyer 13-May-18

Wayne Kelley 13-May-18 Peter Moyer 13-May-18

Barbara Lehman 13-May-18 Bill Plessinger (baptized) 20-May-18

Dan Lehman 13-May-18 Kelsey Simkins 13-May-18

Larry Less 13-May-18 Mike Ryan 13-May-18

Janelle Miller 13-May-18

We had the following people participating in service/volunteer work. Yasir & Manahil Makki: Sudan (IFI)

David Emch: Thailand

We said good-bye to the following families/individuals as they moved on to other places:

Dave & Judy Denlinger Chris Pedersen

Kyle Kerley

We mourned the loss of Gerke van der Zwaag, September 7, 2018

We had 3 children born:

Louise Ann Troyer 2-Jun-18 William Michael Kelty 28-Dec-18

Zamira Patricia Delcamp 14-Jan-19

We dedicated 2 children:

Beatrice Ferne Moyer 16-Sep-18 Louise Ann Troyer 27-Jan-19

We had 3 high school graduates:

Steven Applegate, Quinn Blosser, Grace Ross-Witherop

We celebrated 2 marriages:

Kelsey Simkins and Mike Ryan 28-Jul-18 Becca Baugher and Seth Walton 20-Oct-18

Our average worship attendance for the past year (excluding fall retreat and 2 severe weather days) was 173. (April 2018-April 7, 2019)

The number of children on our Sunday School roster is 80.

Active Membership Totals

Active Membership: 159 Active Associate Members 3

Mission Coordinator Report, continued

All these things are your doing. My work as Mission Coordinator has been to listen and to encourage. And so I close

this report with gratitude and thanks for all who lead and serve in these good works of relief, service, and advocacy!

-Melonie Buller

18

Christian Education Commission Report: Children and Youth

Christian Education Commission; Children and Youth

Children & Youth Christian Education Commission Members: Martha Ruggles (chair), Rachel Gratz, Mark Rupp (Pastor

of Christian Formation), Bethany Davey, Chelsey Steiner, Morgan Metcalf

Vacation Bible School

The VBS theme was Peace Lab and was held on the evenings of July 22-July 26 from 6p-7:45p at the church. We also

utilized the playground and yard of North Broadway United Methodist Church across the street. The VBS committee

members were Mark Rupp and Martha Ruggles. Around 25 children participated.

We had many volunteers who brought snacks or assisted as needed. Mark Rupp lead music/drama/active response.

Adam Ruggles also participated in drama. “Shepherds” for the three age groups were Eliza Graber, Martha Ruggles,

and Jeff Lookabaugh. Creative response was coordinated by Jori Fuller and Meghan Roberts. Abbie Miller organized

and served snacks. Children age 3 and under were cared for in the preschool room by Marla Yoder-Tiedt and Beata

Gray. On Thursday, the final evening, we held a closing gathering with parents at the NBUMC playground. This includ-

ed popsicles, songs, and a presentation of dove peace necklaces or pins to the children for participating.

Sunday School

The commission was thankful for all the volunteers that made it possible to have a lead teacher and two part-time

aides in all of the Sunday School classrooms. Classes this year were made intentionally smaller in number, and one

classroom was added as a result. The preschool class was the exception to both of these, having 13 children on their

roster and one aide for the first half of the year! There were 67 children on the CE roster at the end of the year, hold-

ing steady from last year’s 68.

Teacher orientation was held Sunday, August 26th at 11:00 a.m. Lunch was provided with food from Acre. During the

orientation teachers received a packet which included: an introductory letter, Sunday School roster, list of supplies

available, Sunday School calendar, and information on resources for how to include individuals with disabili-

ties. Morgan Metcalf presented guidance on positive discipline, and Rachel Gratz handed out the Shine curriculum

from MennoMedia. Teachers and aides were given time to go to their classrooms together.

We strived to provide increased support to teachers this year though periodic small tokens of gratitude, creating a

snack cupboard in the kitchen for them to pull from for their classrooms, and providing subs when needed.

Fall Quarter classes began on Sunday, September 9th, 2018. During the worship service teachers and students were

dedicated and blessed. Second graders James Neese, Isaac Miller, Micah Lookabaugh, Grant Metcalf, and Piercen Boh-

nert received their Bibles.

Our teachers and aides for fall through spring quarters were:

2 year olds - no class this year

Preschool: Teacher Beata Gray, Aides Marla Yoder-Tiedt and Conrad Gratz (winter/spring)

Primary Grades K-1: Teachers Morgan Metcalf (fall) and Ruth Massey (winter/spring), Aides Shelly Beiting and Paul

Knapke

Primary Grade 1: Teacher Laurie Zimmerman, Aides Christina Coble and Jerry Nussbaum

Middler 2 (2nd-4th grade): Teacher Eliza Graber, Aides Heidi Wyse and Jon Nofziger

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Christian Education Commission, continued

Middler 1 (5th grade): Teacher Rachel Gratz, Aides Marlene Suter and Dan Halterman, IEP Aide Jon Lucas

Junior Youth: Teacher Tim Stried, Aides Andrew Riel and Kristen Moyer

MYF: Teacher Mark Rupp, Aides Rachael Miller and Annie Trance

This year the children’s offering was for Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS), an organization that serves

the refugee and immigrant population in Central Ohio. The offering was collected during children’s time in the service,

and will also be taken at VBS.

Pastor Joel Miller visited the K-5th grade classrooms again this winter, spending a Sunday in each classroom. The topic

this year was the Bible, encouraging kids to wonder about and imaginatively engage these stories. He brought 5 differ-

ent kinds of Bibles for the kids to explore, including one in Hebrew. The feedback all around was positive!

The Congregational Meetings were held during Sunday school hour on November 4th and May 5th. Teachers and older

children were encouraged to attend. We provided childcare for children preschool-5th grade, which included playing

on the NBUMC playground, and crafting and viewing VeggieTales in out basement classrooms.

Our teacher appreciation celebration will be held the last day of Sunday school before summer break on May 19th,

2019. Classes will end early at 11:40a and teachers, aides, music leaders, children, and parents are all invited to the

fellowship hall for popsicles and pretzels. The teachers, aides, and music leaders will be presented with gifts and

thanks.

Children’s Music

Phil Hart, on his guitar, led preschool-K singing and dancing time in the preschool room from 10:45a-11a. This had the

advantage that children in preschooler’s time did not have to leave the room after the service, and could transition to

singing and then walk down to their Sunday school class together. The aides from the preschool and K classrooms

came up to walk the children to class. Debra Martin led the 1st-5th graders in singing in the fellowship hall during this

time, with piano accompaniment provided by Tracey Lehman and Tom Blosser. We did not offer singing time on Cook-

ie Sundays and classes for all ages started at 11:15 on those Sundays.

The Children’s Christmas Program was held at 6:30p on Saturday, December 15th, 2018. It was entitled Room for

Christmas. The story featured 7 songs and was directed by Debra Martin. The preschool-K children made up a choir of

(very cute, slightly wayward) sheep and were led by Phil Hart. Many other volunteers helped with costumes, set,

lighting, sound, and musical accompaniment. The program was followed by a time of fellowship and snacks. Members

of the Community Life Commission helped coordinate the refreshments shared after the musical.

Nursery & Preschoolers’ Time Program

The number of children in the Nursery and Preschoolers’ Time groups remained steady and manageable. Mim Halter-

man scheduled two volunteers for Preschoolers’ Time and two for Nursery each Sunday, and the CE Nursery and Pre-K

folks (Chelsey Steiner and Bethany Davey) kept the rooms supplied with snacks and other necessities, as well as updat-

ed some aesthetic aspects of the rooms. We continue to share the space with Edith Espinal, which the CEC has experi-

enced as positive. When Edith asked to bring her dog, Mama, into the space, the CEC and Leadership Team discussed

20

Christian Education Commission, continued

ways to make this feasible for all parties. The CEC was glad to be able to accommodate this aspect of Edith’s life, which

has added to her emotional support during her time in Sanctuary. Chelsey and Bethany continue to work with Mim to

update Nursery and Preschoolers’ Time informational posts and parent sign-in sheets. The commission also met at the

church during the year to do a full cleaning, organizing, and cleaning out of the toys and supplies in both rooms.

Mentoring Program:

Mark Rupp was coordinator for this youth program. He matched up three new mentoring pairs for the incoming 6th

grade students. This year, the mentoring pairs were not blessed during the Coming of Age service because not all of

the 6th grade youth decided to participate. A blessing was included during worship for the new mentoring pairs a few

weeks later. All the mentoring pairs were invited to participate in the Clintonville Quest scavenger hunt for our Fall

group activity. For the Spring, the pairs have been invited to participate together at the church-wide work day at the

end of April.

Jr.MYF:

The Jr.MYF sponsor for this year was Andrew Riel. A few mentors, parents, and other adults also helped Andrew and

Mark lead some of the activities. These activities included a picnic and games at Whetstone park, making treats for

care packages, carving a pumpkin-puzzle, decorating Christmas cookies for the YWCA, serving breakfast at the CRC,

watching and discussing a movie, and games at the Bixler house. During January, we sent a group of 9 youth to the

Winter Retreat at Camp Friedenswald, and we enjoyed bonding over sledding, hot chocolate, and worship/discussion

times. Our pastor intern, Rachael Miller, helped chaperone that trip.

MYF:

The MYF sponsors for the past year were Jim Fredal and Anita Gastaldo, though they were released from their commit-

ment in the Fall to allow them to fully pursue participating in another faith community. A few mentors, parents, our

pastoral intern, and a few other adults assisted with some of our activities. Marla Yoder-Tiedt offered to assist whenev-

er needed, which was very helpful. During the summer, Debra Martin and Mark Rupp led a group of 4 youth on a trip

to Elkhorn, WV to serve with SWAP (Sharing With Appalachian People). During that week, they tore out and replaced

the underpinning around a mobile home and practiced many different constructions skills. Digging trenches was, by

far, the least favorite task. While there, we also learned some of the history of the area and the coal mining industry.

Other activities throughout the year included playing games in the fellowship hall, cookie decorating for the YWCA, ice

skating, making goodies for care packages, serving breakfast at the CRC, and watching and discussing a movie. In re-

sponse to a recommendation from the youth, the group has also started meeting a second time during the month to

have lunch together. We have only done this twice, but both times have been good opportunities to grow together as a

group. In January, we had 5 youth attend the Winter Retreat at Camp Friedenswald, and everyone had a great time.

We even took home the Golden Walnut trophy for getting the most points in the Friedenswald Winter Olympics.

-Prepared by CEC members, Mark Rupp, Martha Ruggles, and Bethany Davey

21

Christian Education Commission: Adults

Members: , Julie Hart (chair), Paul Knapke

We offered the following SS classes this year based on our desire to provide at least one class each semester dealing

with belonging issues, believing issues and being or behaving issues.

Fall 2018 Adult SS Classes

A Hunger for Healing used J. Keith Miller’s book, A Hunger for Healing: The Twelve Steps as a Classic Model for Chris-

tian Spiritual Growth. This book served as an introduction to the Twelve Steps. The Steps are presented as spiritual

tools for living, growing, and healing that can be used by anyone. The class goes through the Steps one at a time by

reading the book (in class), viewing an accompanying series of video interviews, along with sharing and discussion. Ste-

ve Rolfe coordinated this class with 5-8 attending each week.

The Power of Radical Kinship book discussion was led by Kate Hauk and 3-6 attended each week. Father Greg Boyle’s

second book, Barking to the Choir, details stories of unconditional love in difficult times working with X cons and gang

members in Los Angeles. The stories demonstrate the role of faith, compassion, mutuality and the enduring power of

kinship in transforming the lives and neighborhoods of Los Angeles.

Inquirers Class was led by Joel Miller. This seven-week class explored the basics of Christian faith in an Anabaptist/

Mennonite perspective, as well as providing an overview of the story and life of Columbus Mennonite Church. The

class was open to anyone, with a special invitation to new attenders and those considering membership at

CMC. Twelve to 20 attended each week.

Stamped from the Beginning: the definitive history of racist ideas in America was led by Adam Glass and had 10-15

attendees each week. Ibram X. Kendi's National book award winner explores the history of racist ideas in America,

showing that even as we've made racial progress, racism has progressed in equal step. His engaging historic look at rac-

ist thought and policy in America posits that racist ideas are manufactured to justify racial policy. He answers the ques-

tion where have we come from and where can we go from here?

Spring 2019 Adult Classes

A Hunger for Healing was led by Steve Rolfe and had 3-6 people attending each week. J. Keith Miller’s Hunger for

Healing book served as an introduction to the Twelve Steps. (See full class description above.)

Unsettling the Word was led by Sarah Werner & Katie Graber and had 8-10 attendees each week. They explored In-

digenous/Settler relations in North America: the colonial context, the legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery, and current

issues in the Mennonite Church. They discussed Indigenous cultures and influences on Christianity, including recent

efforts to decolonize theology and reinterpret scripture from Indigenous perspectives. They consider how our worship

practices can lament and challenge historical and current injustices.

Stamped from the Beginning Second Half was led by Adam Glass and had 5-6 attending each week. Ibram X. Kendi's

National book award winner explored the history of racist ideas in America, showing that even as we've made racial

progress, racism has progressed in equal step. They explored the question where have we come from and where can

we go from here?

Bible Study of the book of Ruth led by Joel Miller had 8-12 attenders. The book of Ruth is small but mighty. Centered

on the Israelite Naomi and her daughter-in-law Ruth, a foreigner, the story touches on issues of famine, migration,

grief, non-traditional families, covenant, economic stratification, social safety nets, workplace harassment, sex and

marriage, genealogy and identity and continuity of a people. Our study will cover the entire text of Ruth, and incorpo-

rate contemporary issues as they appear.

22

Community Life Commission Report

Members: JoAnn Knapke (chair); Mim Halterman; Shakita Kabicek; and Erin Kelty

I thank Mim for her knowledge and guidance. I also thank Mim, Shakita, and Erin for their work on the Fall Retreat, for

all of their creative spirits for transforming the Fellowship Hall, and for all their positive energy in serving this congrega-

tion.

This year we purchased more serving spoons, a slightly larger freezer that is also an upright, and a new 14 cup drip

coffee maker for small groups to be able to use.

We worked with Christian Education Committee to provide space in some cupboards for back up snacks for the chil-

dren.

Community Life Commission was given monies from Pastor Joel’s sabbatical grant to provide some special party times

for sending and welcoming.

We continued many loved traditions:

Monthly Cookie/Coffee Sundays: Mary Blosser continues to be a great help setting up for all of these times. Some of

the Cookie Sundays were made special for certain celebrations.

June Cookie/Coffee Sunday: A chocolate KitKat and Fruit Crisp theme to welcome Pastor Mark Rupp back from sab-

batical and a send off for Pastor Joel Miller and family for his sabbatical.

June: Outdoor Service Potluck. We had the added unwelcome surprise when one of the coffee percolators quit

working soon after it was plugged in. Galen Martin took it home and fixed the electrical problem.

July Cookie/Coffee Sunday: We had the theme of Breakfast Breads and Jams.

July: Pig Roast Picnic Potluck at Jon Graber/Katie Nofziger farm. Instead of figuring a way to get many 6 foot tables

and folding chairs to and from, we asked people to bring card tables and chairs. That seemed to work just fine.

September: Fall Retreat at Camp Luz organized by Erin Kelty and Shakita Kabicek with help from Mim Halterman. At

the retreat, a discussion around handicap accessibility started. Afterwards, a group made up of Tracey Lehman,

Sarah Werner, and pastor Mark Rupp with help and input from Erin Kelty, JoAnn Knapke, and Mim Halterman

began looking for and touring possible retreat spots that are handicap accessible.

November: Fall Harvest Potluck after church business meeting. Shakita seemed to enjoy being in charge of the deco-

rations and she did a great job.

November: Baby Shower Brunch for Erin and Patrick Kelty.

December: Cookie/Coffee Sunday worked with Liz Avendano, who bought a cake, to celebrate Charles Shenk’s 90th

birthday.

December: Reception following the Children’s Christmas Program. Thanks to Ruth Massey for being in charge of the

organization duties.

February: Open Mic Night. A big thank you to Jep Hostetler who was in town and was this year’s emcee. Also, thank

you to Becky Waybill for being the “in-charge” person.

March: Soup/Pie Supper with Knotting Party: Ruth Massey once again took on the task of organizing set up and

clean up.

March: Kitchen cleaning and organizing. From the Opportunities To Serve Form we had 4 volunteers come and help.

Thank you Ruth Massey, Rachel Gratz, Katie Mast, and Nancy Franke.

April: Easter Sunday Breakfast Potluck

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Community Life Commission, continued

Edith Espinal continued to use the kitchen and helped as she could with Community Life Committee clean up—which

was greatly appreciated! From December to first week in February, the stove with the range was out of commission.

Phil Hart, of Facilities Committee, spent a lot of time getting it back to the point where it could be used.

It is really wonderful to see the congregation “walk the talk” as far as caring for the earth by reducing waste by bring-

ing their own plates and cups to each potluck and caring for each other’s health by labeling food ingredients and leav-

ing nuts out of foods when it is a full church function.

-JoAnn Knapke

Facilities Commission Report

Members: Phil Hart (chair), Fred Suter, Jim Myers, Bill Plessinger. Jeff Delcamp, building manager, met with the com-

mittee as well.

This year seemed unusually busy for the Facilities. Many things were dealt with. Some are still being wrestled with.

Some have had to be pushed onto next year’s shelf. It was the first full year of having Jeff Delcamp in the building man-

ager role and custodial tasks handled by Elizabeth and Kevin Condon. The following summarizes most of the bigger pro-

jects.

Parlor/library multi-use shift

The adhoc Aesthetics committee worked with Christian Ed to rethink how the library/parlor room could be more of a

multigenerational space. It is still able to be used as an adult Sunday School space, but also has comfortable reading/

visiting space by the book shelves and a children’s play space, as well.

CRC city code compliance changes

The CRC Kid’s Club program was required to meet new city code which meant changes in the fire alarm system, electri-

cal outlets, and a fresh air circulation system (ERV). Most of the direct costs were covered by CRC, but Jeff and Phil

spent many hours managing the process.

Humidifier drain system

Jeff designed an automatic drain system for the basement humidifiers that means a person doesn’t have to show up to

empty them by hand a least once a day during summer hours.

Recycling changes

Changes in recycling policy by the waste management company we were using, necessitated switching companies and

figuring out new locations for bins.

Foyer aesthetics

The Aesthetics committee’s discussion about the library/parlor changes, caused us to look again at how the foyer is

used as a gathering and visiting space. That raised two specific questions about the usefulness of the pew on the north

wall and whether or not to reconsider the use of the walnut tables that had been made for the foyer some years back.

24

Facilities Commission Report, continued

A survey yielded surprisingly strong affirmations for the pew staying and using the walnut tables.

Emergency Response Plan

Since welcoming Edith into our church, we have been more conscious of security, especially on Sunday mornings. The

previous year, we installed security cameras and initiated the use of “sanctuarians” who monitored the flow of visitors

on Sunday mornings. After the Pittsburg synagogue shootings last fall, we began another round of discussions and re-

search related to church security and our Emergency Response Plans. Bill Plessinger agreed to form a subcommittee in

February and continues to work on that project.

Fob Door Upgrade

Outdated software that would only run on Windows 7 OS was causing worries for how long we could count on the us-

ing the fob door. Looking to upgrade turned into a long and complicated process for Jeff for several months. The new

system was approved in March and should be installed soon.

The old building HVAC conundrum

When autumn arrived and the furnaces began the work of heating our various buildings, it was discovered that the

basement in the old building was not warming to the temperatures that it had in the past. Hours of sleuthing by Jeff

and several visit by various HVAC experts were unable to solve the issue. We made it through the winter using electric

space heaters. Ultimately we decided to hire a heating and cooling engineering firm to analyze the old building and

recommend both short and long term steps to address the issue. We received the engineering proposal for that project

on April 3 and hope that funding will be approved shortly.

Kitchen range fire suppression system

At the Piecemaker’s first meeting in January, it was discovered that the kitchen range would not turn on because low

pressure in the range hood fire suppression system. This turned in to one of the most bizarre stories in Facilities histo-

ry. Suffice it to say that the range is working once again, we have a new Type K fire extinguisher on the wall, and we

have changed our fire extinguisher service company.

Things on our list

We are hopeful that we can get a plan for managing the HVAC in the old building, and at the same time we are con-

cerned about how to budget for the implementation of that plan. We had hoped to complete the upgrade of our fluo-

rescent lights to LEDs this year, but have put that on hold due to the HVAC issues. We are exploring the installation of

solar panels on our building as part of our creation care commitment.

25

Shepherding Commission Report

Members: Jenny Campagna (chair), Larry Less, Anna Diller-Stried, Joel Miller, and Mark Rupp with Steve Rolfe excusing

himself due to health issues in August but continuing work with Shepherding Commission for the upcoming term be-

ginning May 2019.

Shepherding Commission members assisted with communion and were available when the pastors were not available.

Shepherding Commission was assisted in caring for members by Charlie Shenk and others while Mark and Joel were on

their sabbaticals in the spring. Several ad hoc meetings were held to brainstorm how to best serve members who were

struggling or in need.

The following ongoing aspects of care were shared by commission members:

Welcoming new attendees: Using information from the welcome registers and information from office staff, the Shep-

herding Commission contacted visitors after they attended two or three times. There were many introductions by

Shepherding Commission members informally after church, during pizza with the pastors lunches, and during other

church events. Phone calls and emails were also made to new attendees. Additionally, Larry Less, incoming chair, took

the initiative to share information with the congregation in the Lamplighter after gathering bio information from

church attendees. Feedback was good regarding this project, with many expressing that they look forward to knowing

more about fellow members, especially new ones.

Confidential Congregational Concerns: As a group, the Shepherding Commission endeavored to prayerfully consider

ways to meet church member needs as able. Ideas were discussed creatively and additional church members with spe-

cial expertise were consulted, as needed, to ascertain ways to best serve the congregation.

Winter seminar: This years winter seminar was held in January on the topic of Paul, Prison, and the Justice of God pre-

sented by Dr. Ryan Schellenberg. The seminar was held on Monday night and Saturday morning and was well attended

with 60 people having rsvped for both sections of the event. Childcare was provided and Anna Diller-Stried took special

care to make sure that families with small children were able to attend. The Shepherding Commission was blessed to

have Edith Espinal assisted by Abbie Miller to cook for the attendees providing meals on both Monday and Saturday.

Many people commented on the delicious food and the flexibility of the chefs when the oven was no longer operation-

al at the least opportune time.

Compassion Fund: The Shepherding Commission continued to administer the Compassion Fund, coordinating with

Everence for matching funds, as eligible. This year we received more money from Everence based on our church par-

ticipation in Everence activities and membership in Everence. This additional funding was allocated for a number of

member needs including medical costs and transportation needs.

Small Groups: Mark Rupp continues to coordinate small groups and share information about the formation of new

groups, transformation of older groups, and expression of interest in ways for members to be more connected in

meaningful ways both spiritually and socially.

Additional efforts of the Shepherding Commission: Condolence cards were signed by Commission members and sent to

grieving church attendees. Journeying through Grief booklets were sent, as a series, to those with a recent loss during

the first year. Care packages were sent to students with Mark coordinating with small groups to help put together

goodies to let the students know they are loved and remembered by CMC. Transportation needs were often reviewed

by the Shepherding Commission with efforts made to coordinate rides for those who needed them. Small groups often

took the lead in providing meals when members are ill or have a new child with additional coordination done by Shep-

herding Commission.

26

Worship Commission Report

Members: Joanna Suter-incoming chair, Kate Hauk, Metz Kramer, Tim McCarthy, Joel Miller, Tom Blosser, Sarah Wer-

ner (chair)

Regular Responsibilities: Worship Commission is responsible primarily for planning the regular Sunday worship ser-

vice often involving 15-20 or more people in a single Sunday. In addition to regular Sunday worship, Worship Commis-

sion also plans for special services such as the Outdoor Service at Highbanks Metropark, the Camp Luz Retreat Sunday,

Christmas Music Sunday, Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, and Holy Week as well as special seasons such as Advent and

Lent. Other annual special services include the coming of age service, comforter blessing, All Saints/Souls Day, and

healing services. You can see how many people are involved in helping with the ongoing work of Worship Commission

below, and we are so thankful for all this help—both named and unnamed, highly visible and behind-the-scenes.

Special Projects: Some special projects that Worship Commission were involved in this year were the summer wor-

ship series during Joel’s sabbatical, where we heard from a variety of guest speakers in our community on the themes

of World, City, Congregation, and Self and with accompanying banners. During Advent and Lent, we have been able to

sample new hymns from the forthcoming hymnal as a result of the Hymnal Project. We also enjoyed a special worship

service planned by the women who attended the Women Doing Theology conference at AMBS and a series on stew-

ardship planned by pastoral intern Rachael Miller.

Budget: Worship Commission finished the year $30 under budget.

Worship Commission Tasks and Assignments

Children’s Time (Tim Stried)

Offering Collectors (Joanna Suter)

Ushers (Metz Kramer)

Greeters (Metz Kramer)

Sanctuarians (Joel Copeland)

Worship Participants Email Notification Reminder (Sarah

Werner)

Nursery & Preschoolers Time (Mim Halterman)

Worship Grid (Sarah Werner)

Budget (Sarah Werner)

Meeting Agenda & Minutes (Sarah Werner)

Worship Storage (Robin Walton & Virginia Nussbaum)

Communion Supplies (various commission members)

Lamplighter Article (rotating among commission mem-

bers)

Worship Table (Metz Kramer)

Banner/Visuals (open)

Song Leaders (Tom Blosser)

Musicians (Tom Blosser)

Sound Technicians (Tom Blosser)

Online Recording (Galen Martin)

Worship Leaders (Sarah Werner)

Piano & Organ Care (Jeff Bixler)

Guest Speakers (Joel Miller)

Joys & Concerns: One of the only chronic concerns from members of Worship Commission and of those assisting in

Worship Commission responsibilities is that it can become very fatiguing and frustrating trying to find volunteers to fill

the many roles each Sunday. It is helpful to use the Gifts Discernment list, to talk through these concerns with the com-

mission and get suggestions of others who might help and/or new volunteers (or at least moral support!), and to talk to

those who have had success filling roles in the past. Direct, personal contact, face-to-face, or by phone seems to be the

best way to get people to respond. And if you are reading this and feel moved to jump in to one of the tasks listed in

the first paragraph of this report, please contact your nearest Worship Commission member right away! But overall,

this year’s Worship Commission has been uplifting and collaborative. The Worship Commission has had the opportunity

to spend more time this year thinking about larger themes and ways to make worship a more transformative time for

us to be together as a congregation.