Annual Reports 2017 - Constant Contactfiles.constantcontact.com/1ebb34fa001/7cd35e96... · Immanuel Lutheran Church Annual Reports 2016 7 Reviewing budget Notes from Rick highlighting

Immanuel Lutheran Church Annual Reports

Immanuel Lutheran Church Annual Reports 2016 2

Mission, Vision and Values

of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church

Mission

The community of Immanuel strives to be a living sanctuary of hope and grace.

Vision

We are united in God’s love for us in Jesus, poured out for the world through our service to Christ. Our faith made active in love opens doors for all people to encounter God’s love hidden in Christ, the source of our hope.

Values

Worship. We are a community rooted in worship of the resurrected Christ.

Community. God in Christ is at the center of who we are and what we do

Compassion. We welcome all people, receiving their stories without judgment.

Clarity. We value transparency, accuracy and timeliness in all communications.

Courage. We steer into the hard questions knowing we are safe in God’s grace.

Challenge. We are eager to follow the Spirit’s lead into the future.

Service. We nurture all people to embody God’s work in the world.

Integrity. Our walk matches our talk.

Public. The arena for living our faith is the world.

Nurture. We encourage each other in the way of the cross Approved by Council 10/21/14 Draft 4.Exec 10/10/14

Meeting Agenda

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH


WINTER SEMI-ANNUAL MEETING

February 11, 2018

Call to Order and Opening Prayer Establishment of Quorum Adoption of the Agenda Minutes of the Previous Semi-Annual Meeting 2017 Committee and Ministry Team Reports 2017 Financial Reports RESOLUTION RE: 3rd Classroom Space for FTCNS RESOLUTION RE: Changes to Bylaws Closing Prayer


Annual Reports 2015 Table of Contents Page Minutes of Meetings 2017 5-12 Leadership Page President 13 Pastor 14 Resolutions Page Regarding FTCNS Third Classroom 15 Proposed By-Law Change 16 Standing & Other Committees Chair Person Council Contact Page Communications Gloria Evanson David Wilkinson 16 Finance Harold Burkett Nancy McDonough 18 Financial Reports 19-28 Endowment Fund John Damer Donna Bartz 29-31 R. W. Nelson Trust Gary Knapp Donna Bartz 32 Property Barta Wilson Barta Wilson 33 Ministry Teams Leader Council Contact Page Bible Study Pastor Johnson Pastor Johnson 34 Child Care Rebecca Hallas Pastor Johnson 34 Edgewater Tutoring / Compass

Edie Lange Donna Bartz 35

The Forum Richard Anderson David Wilkinson 35 Godly Play / Sunday School Emily Heitzman Nancy McDonough 36 Hospitality/Coffee Hour David Wilkinson David Wilkinson 37 Immanuel Seniors & Friends

38

Immanuel Together Program (Playgroups)

38

Latino Outreach (Now Known as Community Outreach Team)

40

Mission Resource Allocation Edie Lange Donna Bartz 41 On the Way Pastor Johnson Donna Bartz 42 ONE Northside Gloria Evenson Pastor Monte 42 Prayer Ministry Georgiana Micholas Janet Bouman 43 Ushers Margaret Hanson Barta Wilson 44 Youth Ministry--ECT Emily Heitzman David Wilkinson 44 160+ R. Anderson, B Wilson Donna Bartz 48 Staff Page Cantor 49 Parish Administrator 52 Parish Nurse 53 Membership 55 Leadership 56


Immanuel Lutheran Church Budget Hearing Congregational Meeting of October 1, 2017 Called to order 12:00. Pastor opened in prayer. Quorum was established (34). Donna Bartz moved to approved agenda as presented, Ken Olsen seconded. Motion carried. Rick Gustafson recalled the Resolution on the floor, the vote on which was tabled until today. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXPLORATORY EXPENDITURES BE IT RESOLVED that the Congregation of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chicago, in order to implement its Resolution Re: Families Together Cooperative Nursery School (FTCNS), hereby resolves to share the financial burden of code review and architectural expenditures with Families Together Cooperative Nursery School to a maximum of $10,000.00 for the purpose of exploring feasible locations and obtaining bids for any needed property improvements related to the expansion of FTCNS programming at ILC. Point of clarification that costs would be split 50/50 with FTCNS. Rick brought up the question of which line item would include the $10k--it is not in the proposed budget today because it had not yet been directed to the finance committee as something the congregation wanted. What would this include? Code review, architectural plans, architectural review. Point was brought up that despite thorough due diligence, you can't ever know for sure ahead of time if city/state would approve. Cathy Gustafson called for vote, David Wilkinson seconded. Motion carried. Barta Wilson called for ballots. Resolution passed 28 to 5. David Wilkinson moved to consider Resoltion 3, seconded by Barta Wilson. (see below) RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PRELIMINARY BUDGET FOR PROPERTY IMPROVEMENTS BE IT RESOLVED that the Congregation of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chicago (ILC) hereby approves and authorizes a preliminary budget amount of $150,000.00 toward the costs of required modifications, if any, to ILC's property related to the redesign that will allow for a Ministry Center accessible to ILC during the week and on weekends, as well as three (3) permanent classrooms for FTCNS at ILC, provided that: 1. ILC's Congregation must approve any specific plan(s) for modifying ILC facilities prior to implementation. 2. FTCNS agrees to contribute up to $150,000.00 toward costs related to any needed modifications to ILC's facilities which would include paying all costs related to any further renovations of the Parsonage.


3. FTCNS shall fund day-to-day building maintenance within their occupied spaces and the appurtenant common areas and ILC shall retain the right to prior approval of any permanent or material modifications to any and all facilities, structures, systems, and/or operations. 4. FTCNS's space-sharing contributions would increase commensurate with its increased use of space. Discussion: Clarification that FTCNS monies contributed would also include any further modifications needed to the parsonage. Rick reviewed current ideas about the 3 classrooms.

• Where would the money come from? Rick repeated that this is still unknown, shared his personal ideas about possibilities.

• When making plans for the parsonage renovations, initially we thought it would be cost-prohibitive to use it as a space for kids. What changed? One, we would not be using the upper floor as classroom space; two, architects have led us to believe that first floor adjustments could be minimal.

• What if that idea doesn't work? Are there alternative plans that utilize more of the upstairs? This one makes the most sense right now, but can't know for sure. Also remember, all changes happen with review and approval of congregation.

• FTCNS mentioned doubling income. How do we know this is really going to happen? Can this be a friendly amendment?

• Clarification on space sharing costs: because we are non-profit, we don't make profit. Their contribution is supposed to cover costs of space--expenses will increase accordingly. But we currently foot everything related to parsonage and now potentially wouldn't. Also, they will pay for significantly more hours.

• Does that mean we are completely eating the $150k we put into renovations? • Property Committee shared that conversations with FTCNS have included various

issues like separating out cleaning crew and paper goods. • What was the Forward in Faith initiative spent on? Answer: Windows • Ideas have already been circulated regarding fundraising for such a project • Strengthening our relationship is key. We have missed opportunities, but can be

more thoughtful about it going forward, not perpetuating an us vs them attitude. • This is an investment in the neighborhood, where our programs have made an

impact over the years. • Reiteration that this is a hard decision, but the previous points should make it

easier. • Need a strong committee for community needs that meets often, put into budget.

Can't drop the ball now. Ron Bartz offered Provision 4 as a friendly amendment which David accepted. Cathy Gustafson called the question, which carried. Resolution passed 31 to 3.


Reviewing budget Notes from Rick highlighting some of the numbers in the section on Income: Use of Building number is unknown, since we don't know how quickly the school will be utilizing some of these other spaces and increasing contributions. Notes on Expenses:

• How do we find out what the ministry teams are more specifically using their money for? Details of proposals will be made available on welcome table next week.

• Point of clarification that this is a Hearing, not the vote to approve the budget. • Dan shared reasons for increases in worship team budget--doing organ work that

was budgeted for several years ago that never happened. Also hoping to create a plan for how to renew and reenvision worship space.

• Important note re: Advocate/Parish Nursing: Advocate is phasing out parish nurse program. Historically they have paid for benefits and about ⅓ of salary, plus training and development. This is going to start phasing down mid-2018.

Donna Bartz moved to adjourn, seconded by Ken Olsen, motion carried. Pastor ended in prayer. Adjourned at 1:29pm. Respectfully submitted by Natalie Warden, Congregation Secretary Minutes of the September 24, 2017 Special Congregational Meeting

Called to order 11:50am. Dan Schwandt led us in song and in prayer. Quorum was established (36). Donna Bartz moved to accept the agenda as presented and Ken Olsen seconded. Motion was approved. Rick Gustafson made some introductory remarks and recalled our Forward in Faith campaign. Sheryl Burkhalter recounted timeline of past several months--communications that have taken place, meetings that have occurred. She voiced the purpose for today--determining how each entity can live out its vision faithfully. She alluded to a possible solution for classroom locations (parsonage, current office, stage area). Rick Gustafson introduced members of the FTCNS community to speak about their school and mission. Laura Pinsof led with remarks expressing appreciation for the time given to taking their concerns seriously, and pride in the values held by ILC. She gave an


overview of the historical struggles and growth of the school and its relationship with ILC. She summarized their goals of increasing diversity, offering a greater variety of class options, and eliminating the breakdowns in Founders Hall. She expressed great hope that intentional efforts can rebuild a more powerful and compassionate relationship that allows for the growth of both entities. Others (parents, teachers, volunteers) shared thoughts regarding the value of the school community, the value of the church community, and the school and church's relationship with the community. Those who are not religious in the community nonetheless feel it’s important to convey a positive view and experience of religion to their children. A desire was expressed to be less like “ships passing in the night”, and to help others understand how they (FTCNS) feel about the sacredness of their work. Richard Anderson moved that we table further discussion to next Sunday, and was seconded by Barta Wilson. The motion did not carry. Rick requested that the congregation ask questions that the FTCNS representatives could answer before having to leave. Questions that were raised (with responses summarized):

• What are the alternatives to being located in ILC? o Another potential location had been found, but they have concerns about the

values of that location not being as well aligned to theirs as ILC’s values are o Being a stand-alone school with their own property is not appealing, as they

value both the idea of collaboration with another community entity and the idea of caring for the community by sharing resources

• Concerns about the amount of work already being done by the Property Committee and the burden of help needed

o Hope is that ILC/FTCNS can work together to more logically split costs of pro help

o They have volunteers willing to assist, if ILC/FTCNS can collaborate on a satisfactory plan

• Concerns raised about loss of income if school leaves • What changes need to be made for coding/licensing?

o Can’t know everything until exploratory studies and plans are done, but fire safety will definitely be one of the biggest issues, possibly more handwashing sinks and toilets

• How can we know that the figures in the resolutions are accurate? o It can’t be answered today, because first there needs to be a commitment to

explore what it will take; each step on the way will come back for votes; this is not a binding contract, it’s expressing that ILC is prepared and willing to find a solution

• How will these expansions affect use of space in building and possibly limit ILC’s programs?


o There are many spaces in ILC that are not currently being used on a regular

basis, so while this may rearrange some, it may open up accessibility to others

o Biggest is that Founders Hall could possibly open up to be significantly available

o Gym time is currently worked out in collaboration with other groups; hopefully that collaboration would continue; teachers are open to many new possibilities to share spaces

• Property Committee supports this effort, and noted that they do hire professionals already

• How long to develop plan and get approval, and complete work? o Hoping for a viable plan within 3-6 months o Ambitious completion: 1 year; conservative completion: 2 years

• How firm is the FTCNS proposal document? o It’s a starting point, an expression of dreams & ideals, and an invitation to

dream together o Also noted that income from school would significantly increase

• How much would the expanded school need the kitchen space? o The ideal solution is that the parsonage becomes their primary kitchen

space o If that is not viable, possibility of full-time professional preparing meals

would mean fewer volunteers in the space; would also open up possibilities to incorporate ILC groups into meals (e.g., intergenerational lunches with seniors & children, etc.)

The preschool representatives were thanked and they left. Point of order made that discussion cannot take place without the Resolution being called. Sheryl Burkhalter moved to hear Resolution #1. Marcia Smith seconded. Key points of discussion:

• How do we reasonably commit to 20 years? Pointed out that language says “that will allow” for 20 more years together. A reasonable contract can and will include out-clauses, but this resolution is not a contract.

• How will this impact our other programs? See above answers to questions about space and kitchen. Chrissy Swanson has had contact with weekday ministries to discuss these issues.

• What could we use the Founders Hall space for if it opens up? Explain more about use of parsonage, all 3 levels. Rick Gustafson explained what has happened with LSSI discussions--that LSSI will not begin engaging with ILC until parsonage work is complete.

• Point made that school has been responsible tenants.


• Question about how to vote when we don't know actual plans. Can't have a budget

number or floor plan until we invest all the money to do that. But actual plans would still come back to congregation for vote.

• Other programs run into each other during the week getting things done, come in expecting space to be available that isn't. Have to solve that. If they move into other committed spaces, will we even run into each other? Still some overlap, but the overlap will be reduced.

• Excitement around possibilities we can can do with space opened up. • What happens if we do all the plans and studies and it’s way too much? Can it all

end then? Congregation gets to vote on a specific plan, but do we move forward now?

• Gratitude expressed for time and effort and conversation. Do we really want to start a daycare from scratch? Neighborhood has been enhanced thru the years by this relationship. Affirmation that school people are good folks.

Marcia Smith moved to call the question and was seconded. Motion to call the question carried. Resolution #1 carried 30 to 4. RESOLUTION CONCERNING IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH'S RELATIONSHIP WITH FAMILIES TOGETHER COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL RESOLUTION RE: FAMILIES TOGETHER COOPERATIVE NURSERY SCHOOL BE IT RESOLVED that the Congregation of Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chicago (ILC) hereby resolves to: 1. Become more intentional in creating a stronger and more collaborative relationship with Families Together Cooperative Nursery School (FTCNS); 2. To design patterns of engagement that will allow for a second twenty (20) year term of strengthened service to the children invited to flourish within our walls; 3. To support with the provision of three (3) permanent classrooms the school's initiative to serve more children and broaden the socio-economic and cultural diversity of the families served by FTCNS. Natalie Warden moved to propose Resolution #2, seconded by Chuck Carper. Richard Anderson moved that we vote by acclamation, seconded by Barta Wilson. Motion carried. Key points of discussion:

• Where is the $10k coming from? And will the Endowment consider paying for improvements made? Endowment can make recommendation, but ultimately Congregation decides whether the Endowment pays. Finance committee will work to make viable options.

• Can we pull in stuff from last architectural plans? Maybe, but there are a lot of new things that have come up since then.

• Is the language of Resolution #1 sufficient for the deadline, or do they also need the financial commitment? Yes, they do need the financial commitment.

• Point made that the $10k is important, but needs to be added to the budget.


Sue Rothmeyer moved that we postpone the vote of Resolution #2 until next week, seconded by Barta Wilson. Question was asked whether doing so would create problems for the budget hearing next week, but it was answered that the finance committee will be able to present proposals with multiple options. Motion to move vote on Resolution #2 carried. Sue Rothmeyer moved to adjourn, seconded by Darlene Albers. Pastor Johnson prayed. Respectfully submitted by Natalie Warden, Congregation Secretary Minutes of the Semi-Annual Congregational Meeting of February 5, 2017 The meeting was called to order at 11:55 am by congregational president Rick Gustafson. Pastor Johnson opened with prayer. Rick handed out an amended p. 16 (from annual reports) and an updated parsonage budget. Quorum was established (27) and the agenda was approved unanimously as presented. Motion to move approval of minutes from previous meeting to church council was made by Barta Wilson and seconded by Donna Bartz. The motion carried unanimously. Discussion opened by returning to Continuing Resolution #1 that was tabled from the November 2016 meeting (resolution to allow the Endowment Fund to spend below the baseline for emergency repairs): The congregation reviewed the discussion from the last meeting. Barta Wilson pointed out that a property line item cannot go into the budget without being named and having a quote, so it is therefore not possible to put unknown emergencies into the budget. Question was raised that if emergency funds are disbursed without having to go forward in front of congregation, how does the congregation find out? Congregants might be willing to donate for the emergency if they know about it. After some discussion, Barta Wilson called the Question. Resolution carried, with Rick Gustafson promising that the council will bring emergency circumstances before the congregation in the most timely way possible to allow for donations to cover emergency. Rick commended the 2016 Committee and Ministry Team Reports. Gary Knapp made a special point of highlighting the Endowment Fund report and how the fund has left JP Morgan and moved fund management elsewhere, providing higher returns and saving $15k in fees. Barta Wilson moved to receive reports as presented and the motion carried unanimously. As a sidebar, a question was raised about how to contact missing members and it was noted that the directory will come out soon.


Donna Bartz presented the 2016 Financial Reports. She noted that it has been an interesting year of challenges. Envelopes are under budget, a trend throughout 2016, though higher than 2015 envelopes. Perhaps we were too optimistic in budget process. Also noted: $35k from IEF (for parsonage remodel) being held in reserve for 2017. Many areas are under budget and insurance money accounts for a lot of budget numbers. Gratitude was also expressed for past members’ estate planning, as the RW Nelson funds were unexpectedly high. Rick Gustafson presented information regarding the parsonage rehab--that permits are going ahead and it is hoped that construction will be done by the end of September. He explained that this project should come in under budget, as estimates were very conservative. He showed the new floor plans, including adding a bathroom on 2nd floor. Questions were raised about who might use the space and how heating would be handled (separate from the church). Barta Wilson moved to accept the Financial Reports, David Wilkinson seconded, and the reports were accepted. Members were exhorted to read the narrative budget on their own in more detail. The meeting adjourned at 12:54 pm with prayer by Pastor Johnson. Respectfully submitted by Natalie Warden, Congregation Secretary.


Leadership

Congregation President Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ, Thanks be to God! I give thanks for all of you who are working so hard to do God’s will here on Earth and for faithfully walking in the way of the cross, as we are able. I am blest to be a part of such a vibrant community full of faithful people of God. I give thanks for the blessings of our neighborhood, our building, and for all those that have gone before and for their enduring legacy of faithful service to the community. I wanted to take a moment to look back on our life together in 2017. Immanuel continues its tradition of excellent worship services that continue to inspire, transform, and bring all of us closer to God. Immanuel’s music and liturgy are second to none and I hope we can find ways to better tell the world it. Immanuel continues to build bridges with the Edgewater community through Edgewater Tutoring and COMPASS. These ministries continue to provide valuable and needed services to those in need. Immanuel’s Together Program is growing and continues its excellent work to children and caregivers throughout the neighborhood. Immanuel Forum continues to provide excellent adult educational opportunities to us and the community. 2017 was about prayer, about renewing and strengthening relationships with each other, our space-sharing partners, and the Edgewater/Andersonville/Uptown communities. Did you know that ECT Youth has grown to over 30 young adults? They include family members of Immanuel members, Ebenezer members, and Unity members. But, also young adults from the community that don’t call one of the three Edgewater Lutheran congregations home (yet). Immanuel members participated in a “Renewing Leadership” initiative sponsored by the Synod that highlighted our need to strengthen relationships among each other and our community through prayer, communication, and activities. For instance, many of you have participated in IKANN conversations (I Know A New Neighbor) that can help us get to know each other better. The “This is Us” stories you can read in your bulletins, E-News and other media also help us get to know each other better and perhaps even get to know someone you’ve never met before. You can look forward to other social and spiritual events that will continue to build on these initiatives! Of course, there were challenges too. Immanuel continues to run a budget deficit, has been confronted with difficult decisions about how to be good stewards of the facilities,


and how best to tell our story that can inspire and help grow our worshiping community. I know that with God’s help, these challenges will not only be conquered, but could lead to even more opportunity to do God’s work in the world. God Bless You All! Love in Christ,

Pastor A Decision to Grow and Thrive

In October Immanuel and the Families Together Cooperative Nursery School (FTCNS) determined to open a new chapter in their twenty-year-old relationship. Members of Immanuel voted to affirm the vision of expansion of FTCNS to include a third classroom and to take steps for the church and school to work more closely. A Brief History In the late 1990’s leaders of Immanuel, including Pastor Carl McKenzie, Michelle Knapp, and Edie Lange identified a need for quality child care in Edgewater. Meanwhile another community parent and tot playgroup had become licensed as the Evanston Cooperative Nursery School (ECNS) and was looking to move from their home at Hemenway United Methodist Church. The match was made. In September 1999, ECNS opened at Immanuel Lutheran as a licensed nursery school offering a single Mixed Age program with a new name inspired by Immanuel’s playgroups –Families Together Cooperative Nursery School. By 2001, due to parent demand, FTCNS had expanded to offer morning Nursery programs and an afternoon Pre-K program. A Young 3s program was added in 2004. FTCNS now includes more than 60 families and with an additional third classroom, is ready to expand to serve about 100 families. Looking Ahead The flow of children and families throughout Immanuel every week is a beautiful expression of its mission to be a living sanctuary of hope and grace. We are building community felt throughout Edgewater by our welcome. We are fostering hope among our youth by supporting their success in learning. We are a living sanctuary as we welcome friends and neighbors in Jesus’ name on Sunday morning and through the ECT youth group. Our shared vision is that we can dramatically decrease friction arising from overlapping use of the same spaces, create greater opportunity for Immanuel’s ministries to grow and thrive (e.g. playgroups,


tutoring and youth) even while expanding the school. There is untapped potential for the church and school to work more closely and for our two communities to pull together where our mission overlaps. Expansion of the school will double their annual space-sharing contribution to the church (to about $80k per year). While most congregations struggle meet new friends, we are blessed with multiple opportunities every day to greet neighbors right in our own building. Showing hospitality to strangers in Christ’s name is a powerful and largely undeveloped outreach tool for Immanuel. Our decision to grow with FTCNS is strategic decision positioning Immanuel and its ministries to grow and thrive.

Respectfully submitted,

Pastor Monte Johnson Resolution Regarding Third Classroom Space for FTCNS In accordance with Resolution #3 adopted October 1, 2017, affirming the expansion of the Families Together Cooperative Nursery School (FTCNS) to include a third classroom, Be it resolved: That the congregation adopt the recommendation of the ad-hoc committee and the Congregation Council to locate the third classroom for FTCNS in the second floor space currently occupied by the Immanuel Together Program (i.e. play groups) and ECT youth next to the gym.


Proposed By-Law Changes to Immanuel Constitution Bylaws to Chapter 10 CONGREGATIONAL MEETING C10.01.01 The semi-annual meetings shall be held in the autumn (October or November) and winter (January or

February). The specific dates and times will be determined by the Congregation Council.

C10.01.02 The congregation shall annually conduct a budget hearing. This hearing shall be open to all voting members of the congregation and shall be held at least 14 days prior to the autumn semi-annual meeting of the congregation.

C10.01.03 Notice shall be given of the budget hearing to the congregation in accordance with section C10.03 of the constitution. The President of the Congregation shall preside at the hearing and shall work with the Standing Committee on Finance in preparing working documents for the hearing. No business other than the budget shall be in order for this meeting.

C10.01.04 All Standing Committees and Ministry Teams shall present itemized budget requests in writing to the budget hearing.

C10.01.05 Each major line item in the budget shall be reviewed voted upon by the hearing. The budget as approved by the hearing shall be submitted to the Congregation Council. Upon recommendation of the Congregation Council, the budget shall be presented to the congregation for adoption at the autumn semi-annual meeting.

Bylaws to Chapter 13 COMMITTEES OF THE CONGREGATION AND THE CONGREGATION COUNCIL

C13.04.01 The Standing Committee on Mutual Ministry shall: A committee of concerned and faithful members, who through listening, advising, discerning, affirming,

and forgiving, humbly strengthens the Mission, Vision and Values of the Congregation. The Committee examines and supports the lay and called leadership of the Congregation and identifies and makes recommendations about areas of need; reviews the time investment of called leadership and the overall compensation and benefits provided to them.

Standing and Other Committees

Communications Committee In Mark 16:15 the Bible says,

"Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature."

In keeping with a statement made by Bishop Wayne Miller on Immanuel's 160th anniversary, "People out there are dying for lack of what we hold inside these four walls; we need to let it out," the Immanuel Communications Committee continues to explore and implement ways the church can take "what we hold inside" and put it "out there." In 2017, the Immanuel Communications Committee: ● Continued our presence at www.churchonelmdale.org. Updated design placement to be more user-friendly. Continued our presence on Facebook and Twitter.


● Posted event photos on the website, and Council member photos on the bulletin board. Re-introduced new member photos to the newsletter. ● Produced in-house communication venues: Weekly “e-news,” “This Week” bulletin inserts and bi-monthly “News to Use.” Added app icons to the bulletin inserts. ● Placed weekly ads in the “News-Star” neighborhood paper, with special ads for Easter, Christmas and Reformation Hymnfest. Placed bi-annual ads on Senn varsity calendar. ● Increased focus on exterior signage: ○ Installed new corner and courtyard signs with updated Forward in Faith logo. ○ Began using outdoor sandwich signs for special events. ○ Installed a metal road sign at Greenview and Granville via 48th Ward Office. ○ Purchased a welcome banner for the yard sign for use between special events.

● Explored feasibility of announcement monitors per Council request. (Council withdrew the project when estimated cost proved to be more than available allocated funds. ● Published an updated November, 2017 church directory. Plan to update bi-annually. ● Ordered additional pew cards. ● Distributed gift coffee mugs with handouts to new members. Ordered Immanuel pens. ● Explored and used local publicity venues, such as aldermanic and block club newsletters. ● Assisted Parish Nurse Marcia Smith with research to help her ministry become more tech-savvy. ● Assisted Richard Anderson with planning of Forum topics, events and publications. ● Also assisted in planning of:

○ ELCA God’s Work Our Hands Sunday in September. ○ Continued publicity for 2017 Reformation anniversary events.

● Crafted a 2018 budget with a narrative budget allowing us to function within set limits.

2018 goals include continued exploration of ways to remain relevant and better communicate as a church. We would like to add a Spanish-speaking member to the Committee to advise us in doing Hispanic outreach, and a tech-savvy Twitter expert help keep our social media ministry up-to-date.

Thanks to Committee members Richard Anderson and David Wilkinson, as well as outgoing member Marge Hanson. Special thanks to Madeline Lund who attends our meetings and helps keep us informed on what we need to know.

Gloria L. Evenson, Chair, Immanuel Communications Committee


Finance Committee The Finance Committee reviews the financial report prepared by the Financial Secretary and the Treasurer. The report is a combined report of both and has served us well in saving time. We prepare a condensed version to be presented to the Council. Annually we assemble the budget figures presented to us by the ministries. We review and challenge those figures and hold budget hearings where all can attend and discuss changes. The budget is then presented to the Council for approval. During the year financial issues are also discussed and voted upon. Our appreciation is extended to Treasurer Donna Barta, Financial Secretary Nancy McDonough and Parish Administrator Madeline Lund for all the work they do monthly to make the reporting a reality. Our Thanks also go to all the ministries for their work and cooperation during the Budget process and to the members of the a Finance Committee for addressing the challenges we receive each year. The members of the Finance Committee are........Pastor Monte, Rick Gustafson, Gary Knapp, Donna Bartz and Nancy McDonough. Thank You, Harold Brukett, Chair



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Endowment Fund Committee Members: John Damer, Chair

Wayne Hanson, Secretary Gary Knapp, Treasurer Sue Rothmeyer Chrissy Swanson

Council and Staff Members: Council Pres. Richard Gustafson Pastor Johnson The Committee members met four times this year. Three major issues were confronted this year;

1. Investment management changes for 2017 2. 2018 Budgeting 3. Planned Giving

1. In an effort to increase the return of the Immanuel Endowment portfolio, while limiting downside

risk, the IEF Committee approved a strategy to write covered calls against long positions held in the portfolio.

Approval was given to write calls against 50% of the portfolio and will be executed in two stages, against 25% of the portfolio two weeks apart. This takes advantage of possible changes in volatility in the financial markets.

Treasurer Gary Knapp presented fact based evidence of the risk-limiting and potential for higher returns over the short and long term. The approval is based on writing “out of the money” calls with a 45-day expiration and a .30 delta. This roughly means that our underlying position has a 30% chance of reaching the strike price of the option within 45 days, which point the security would be called and we would have to sell that position and need to buy it back at a higher price most likely to maintain the balance of the portfolio and remain invested. This means our stock or bond holding rose relatively rapidly during the 45 days. To limit trade execution costs, our strategy will be, in most cases, to buy back the call at a loss, as expiration day approaches. The result of this strategy was a total return of 14.9% for the stock/bond fund. The percentage of return for Fund A was 13.9% thru 11/30 and estimated 15.25%. This compares to our benchmark return of 16.71%

2. The 2017 disbursements were $180,000. The final fund baseline is $1,570,788.67. The net fund balance after approved disbursements is estimated at $1,621,356.67. (Pending final performance


data from Fund A.) Immanuel Endowment Fund Financial 2017 Report is attached. For 2018, a disbursement of $100,000 (6.2% of the Fund) was recommended by the IEF Committee and approved by the congregation as part of the budget approval process for 2018. In addition to this amount, it is expected that an additional $235,000 will need to be withdrawn from the Fund to meet the projected budget deficit of the church. This brings the estimated total withdrawal to $335,000 (20.7% of the Fund).

3. A Plan Giving Committee working group was established to explore options for Congregational

mission giving. During 2017, a kickoff Congregational breakfast gathering was held on May 21, The Chrissy and John had various ideas for creating awareness and educating the congregation about the role of the endowment, planned giving opportunities and the impact of past planned gifts on the life of Immanuel.

Respectfully Submitted, John Damer, Wayne Hanson, Gary Knapp


IMMANUEL ENDOWMENT FUND FINANCIAL REPORT as of 12/31/2017Total Assets

12/31/17 Checking Account 34,774.81$

est 12/31/17 Investment Accounts 1,586,581.86$ est 12/31/17 Total Assets 1,621,356.67$

Net Fund Balance12/31/16 Approved Annual Grants 215,000.00$ 12/31/16 Prior Yr Grants Excess (35,000.00)$ 12/31/17 YTD Grants (180,000.00)$

12/31/17 Grant Disbursement Balance -$

12/31/17 YTD Fund Expenses (133.81)$

12/31/17 Total Withdrawals (215,133.81)$ 12/31/17 Available Fund Balance 1,621,356.67$

Baseline 12/31/16 Beginning Baseline 1,570,788.67$ 12/31/17 Current Baseline 1,570,788.67$

12/31/17 Available Fund Balance - Baseline 50,568.00$

Checking Account12/31/16 Beginning Balance 114,908.62$

Debits Chk # Date Payee Note1220 4/26/17 Immanuel Budget (100,000.00)$ 1221 5/30/17 John Damer Fund Breakfast (133.81)$ 1222 6/16/17 Immanuel Budget (80,000.00)$

Total Debits (180,133.81)$

Deposits 6/12/17 Transfer from TDA 100,000.00$ Total Deposits 100,000.00$

12/31/17 Current Balance 34,774.81$

Investment Accounts12/31/16 Prior Yr Ending Balance TDA 1,247,192.91$ 12/31/17 YTD Deposits TDA -$ 12/31/17 YTD Withdrawals TDA (100,000.00)$ 12/31/17 YTD Balance TDA 1,332,581.86$ 12/31/17 YTD Change in Investment Value TDA 185,388.95$ 12/31/17 YTD Return TDA 14.86%

12/31/17 Stock Benchmark YTD Return 21.85%12/31/17 Bond Benchmark YTD Return 8.98%12/31/17 60 Stock / 40 Bonds YTD 16.71%

12/31/16 Prior Yr Ending Balance ELCA Fund A 220,382.61$ 12/31/17 YTD Deposits ELCA Fund A -$ 12/31/17 YTD Withdrawals ELCA Fund A -$

est 12/31/17 YTD Balance ELCA Fund A 254,000.00$ est 12/31/17 YTD Change in Investment Value ELCA Fund A 33,617.39$ est 12/31/17 YTD Return ELCA Fund A 15.25%

2018 Commitments Proposed Grants (100,000.00)$ -6.17%Budget Deficit (235,000.00)$ -14.49%Total (335,000.00)$ -20.70%


R. W. Nelson Trust

Value of the Immanuel portion of the trust as of 12-31-2017

Value of the annuitants portion of the trust as of 12-31-2017

Immanuel received $160,593 from the R. W. Nelson Trust in 2017. This was about $4,000 less than what we received the previous year. There are two annuitants left and the annuitants account stands at $999,750. Eventually this amount would move over to Immanuel when the annuitants pass away. It would bring in an additional $25,000 - $30,000 in income based on the current value and income rate. The remaining annuitants are two women ages 57 and 85. Submitted by Gary Knapp 1/09/18

Annuitants (2) Value Change Income Income Rate Total Return12/31/2013 $886,760 $18,57412/31/2014 $891,257 $4,497 $18,574 2.09%12/31/2015 $849,926 ($41,331) $18,574 2.08% -2.55%12/31/2016 $890,252 $40,326 $18,574 2.19% 6.93%12/31/2017 $999,750 $109,498 $18,574 2.09% 14.39%

Immanuel Value Change Income Income Rate Total Return12/31/2013 $4,556,667 $161,98812/31/2014 $4,617,386 $60,719 $158,341 3.47% 4.81%12/31/2015 $4,321,224 ($296,162) $146,377 3.17% -3.24%12/31/2016 $4,580,658 $259,434 $164,427 3.81% 9.81%12/31/2017 $4,876,906 $296,248 $160,593 3.51% 9.97%


Property Committee Committee Members, Barta Wilson -Chairperson, Doug Fox, Wayne Hanson, Earl Heppner, John McDonough II, and Phil Soosloff. (Cathy Gustafson, Landscape Consultant) MAJOR PROJECTS COMPLETED EXTERIOR

§ Preventive Maintenance – the major project completed was the tuck-pointing of the Chimney and East Tower. The damage was discovered to be greater when observed from a high lift used to install the new windows. This project was more expensive than the budgeted amount, hence other projects were postponed. Damaged masonry was also repaired on the west Parsonage wall,

§ Security – Security cameras were added. INTERIOR

§ Code Violations – This year the Church was cited due to the School’s occupancy by the State Fire Marshall and the Chicago Health Department for violations. This determination by the State Fire Marshall will require major alterations to the facility. The Health violations required many hours of work by this Committee.

§ Mechanical – Boiler - The repairs this year will be slightly under $30,000. The boiler cast in 1921 is reaching 100 years of age and the additional boiler equipment is in need of constant repair and attention. ‘

§ Hot water heater tank-RB Plumbing had to install a new one to replace our very old commercial unit.


§ Electrical – The Committee contracted with Verde Co., who installed a total

of 227 light fixtures with LED in Founders Hall, Gym, and the Olin Center. Plus 17 exit signs. With an estimated annual savings approximately $6,000.00; in electricity use. The total cost of the project was $16,745.00 but with the ComEd energy efficiency program combined with a grant from Elevate Energy, there was zero out of pocket cost for us.

§ Painting and Finishes –Walls were repaired in St. Ansgar Chapel and the Tower Apartment. The Committee members installed new carpeting in the Tower Apartment.

§ Volunteer Labor--This year your Property Committee spent over 500 hours working and supervising improvements to Immanuel. At current labor rates this would be over $36,000.

§ Parsonage – This Committee, Rich Gustafson and Blender Architects have been overseeing the construction of Sturm Builders, Inc. The renovation has taken over a year since proposals were taken, but do anticipate completion by Feb. 2018.

Ministry Teams

Bible Study Bible study continues on Thursday in the side chapel at 10:00 am. In the spring of 2017, we did a deep-dive study of Paul’s Letter to the Romans with friends from St. Gertrude Catholic Church in recognition of the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation. This fall we read the entire gospel of Mark in preparation for this year in worship when we read St. Mark most Sundays. New comers are always welcome. .

Child Care Rebecca Hallas continued to serve as our Nursery Attendant this past year. Her new assistant Monica Ron joined her in the spring. Her children Mia and Tristan attend Godly Play. Childcare is offered from 9:15 to 12:15 each Sunday upstairs next to the gym. The large toddler-friendly room is used by the Play Groups throughout the week. It’s proven to be a good home for


Sunday morning childcare. While childcare is upstairs, our Sunday school (i.e. Godly Play) is offered downstairs in Grace Place, a.k.a the Library. The morning set up includes reading books, a little-tikes slide, and plenty of toys to keep everyone busy. Every Sunday we have snacks, coloring and a craft. We are always looking forward to friends and hope you will come upstairs to visit. Special thanks are due to all the parents for their continuous help and support.

Edgewater Tutoring and Compass Edgewater Tutoring Program is a safe learning environment for Edgewater students to get individual help from Immanuel members and church neighbors. We also employ Loyola University work study students and appreciate the dedication of volunteer tutors from Lutheran Campus Ministry at Northwestern University. Tutors and students are paired one-to-one. The tutors work with the students academically and establish mentoring relationships with them. Each Monday Edgewater Tutoring meets from 6:30-8:00. Students work on academics with a tutor and may play board games during the last half-hour if homework is completed. Snack is provided each Monday. Some tutoring parents meet for ESL instruction and/or quilting depending on volunteers’ availability to work with them. Each Tuesday Compass tutoring meets from 6:00-8:00. Students enjoy a meal that is generously provided by Immanuel members. Following the meal, students are tutored by Loyola students. If homework is completed, students may spend final half-hour in gym or youth room participating in recreational activities. During early spring we work with teens to apply for summer jobs. During the last year we have purchased Chromebooks to enhance learning at both nights of tutoring. In December students wrote holiday wish lists to put on Immanuel’s Angel Tree. Our students were very thankful for the wonderful gifts they received. Edie Lange

The Forum Immanuel’s Forum has completed one of its most exiting years. The Forum meets on Sunday afternoons following coffee hour in two series of sessions, a spring term from March to June, and a fall term from September to December.

The spring term covered a wide variety of subjects, from Justice and Mercy to Facing Death and Grief, from the Church in Indonesia to Immanuel’s finances.


Ken Olsen and William Ross led a unit on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, and Richard Anderson gave a presentation on Danish-American social reformer Jacob Riis.

In June, Anderson also delivered the first of what is projected to be an on-going series on Lutheran ethnicity in America. This first presentation was devoted the Danes and will be published in booklet form in 2018.

The eleventh Herring Breakfast was held on March 5. This annual event honoring the late Lois Kransz is usually scheduled for the first Sunday in Lent. The breakfast includes several kinds of herring, as well as other seafood and cheeses.

The fall term was probably the most ambitious in the history of the Forum. With the support of the Reformation 500 Team, a series of ten presentations on the history and consequences of the Reformation Era was scheduled from September through December. A complete list of these sessions can be found in the report of the Reformation 500 Team.

The spring term for 2018 is currently in preparation. Because of the timing of Easter this year, there will be only eight sessions, in April and May. Four of these classes will be devoted to reviewing Immanuel’s programs in the areas of health and wellness, educational support, Godly Play for children, and youth ministry.

Ken Olsen will be leading a discussion on the political background of the Reformations, and another session will consider what makes some countries happier than others. Richard Anderson will also lead a discussion on the topic We have met the enemy, and them is us: Why Christianity is Destroying America.

The fall term for 2018 will begin on September 9. The schedule for this term is in early stages of development.

Respectfully submitted, Richard J Anderson, Team leader Godly Play/Sunday School In 2017, Immanuel’s Sunday school began its fifth year using materials and curriculum developed by Godly Play. We added a second Sunday school class—one for young, pre-schooler aged children, and second class for older kids. Pastor Emily Heitzman coordinates a schedule of volunteers and programming. Parent-volunteers provide weekly instruction. After communing with their families, children are welcomed to Grace Place (a.k.a. the church library) for prayers, a bible story, and structured playtime. They are finished at 12:15. Special thanks are due to Will Swanson and Natalie Warden who have done a wonderful job leading our children to engage scripture, and in so doing, to encounter the living God.


Godly Play teaches children the art of using Christian language - parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action - helping them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives. Through Godly Play, children become intimately familiar with biblical stories, connecting their own experiences to God’s ongoing action in the world. Godly Play is based on long established, tried and tested approaches. Godly Play values process, openness and discovery. Although it was originally developed as a resource for children, Godly Play is now being used with a wide range of age groups in a diversity of settings.

Hospitality Hospitality at Immanuel encompasses coffee hour, holiday celebrations, and other fellowship events. Through hospitality we nourish each other and welcome the stranger. 2017 saw some new events at Immanuel. We had the first Epiphany Carols and Cocoa party in January and the first Beer and Brats night with the pre-school in November. We also had fellowship building activities during several coffee hours.

There is no Hospitality Committee per se; however, there are many who make Immanuel a welcoming place. First, I would like to thank Barta Wilson and Sheryl Burkhalter for each taking over a coffee hour every month. Also, many thanks to Pastor Monte for taking over coffee making duties on alternate Sundays. Below is a list of most of the special events in 2017 and the people who coordinated them.

• Dan Schwandt and Sheryl Burkhalter – Epiphany Carols and Cocoa

• Phil and Lorraine Soosloff – Pre-Lenten Pancake Breakfast • Richard Anderson – The Lois Kranz Herring Breakfast, several luncheons, and the sanctuary tour at the Newcomers Coffee

• Lola Castillo and Molly Castillo-Keefe – Easter Vigil Reception and Easter Breakfast • Chrissy Swanson and John Damer – Endowment Committee Breakfast


• Barta Wilson, Sheryl Burkhalter, and Paul Johnson – Reformation Hymn Festival reception • Kari Johnson, Chrissy Swanson, and John Damer – Beer and Brats Night • John Damer and Laura Salas-Damer – Advent Dinner

Many thanks to Madeleine Lund for keeping us well stocked with coffee, to the Property Committee for all the work they do, and all those who provided snacks at a coffee hour in 2017. Respectfully submitted, Dave Wilkinson

Immanuel Seniors and Friends The seniors of Immanuel met on the first and third Tuesdays of each month in 2017. An exercise session with Bonnie would begin at 11:30 and last an hour. Then the group met for lunch and fellowship. On the third Tuesday of the month a program was offered. This ranged from poetry reading to discussion of health habits. In spring we viewed the Rick Steves program about the Reformation together with some members of St. Gertrude's. In December, we finished up the year with a great Christmas luncheon including caroling.

Immanuel Together Program The Immanuel Together Program is in its 33rd year. It continues to be known in our community as a fun, inviting and safe place for young children and their parents or caregivers. As some of the parents recently wrote, “The playgroup is a great place for kids to play, learn and work on social skills! It’s also a great place for adults to support each other”. Every week we have inquiries on how to sign up and new families join the playgroups. About half the children come with their nannies and we have several dads who attend. Word about the playgroups is spread by word of mouth and some local parenting email lists. The playgroups have 3 terms during the school year: a Fall Term from the beginning of September until Christmas, a Winter Term that begins right after the New Year holiday


until Holy Week and a Spring Term that starts after Easter and ends around the middle of June. Some playgroup children have attended Immanuel’s Vacation Bible School. The Baby-Toddler class meets on Mondays and Wednesdays mornings up in the gym and presently has 18+ little ones registered. Some of the infants are just sitting up in baby seats and observing, others happily crawl around the gym floor. The adults spend time sharing their parenting stories and concerns. As one young mother with twins recently said” I cannot put into words how helpful this group is to my mental health.” I presently lead these two groups. There are also playgroups on Tuesdays and Thursdays mornings up in the gym for children ages 12 months to 2+ years, that I also lead. There are presently 23 children enrolled. It seems every week a few new families join us. Classes for children ages 2 1/2 and older continue to meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays mornings down in the Olin Center. These groups are led by a mother who has a child in the group. We presently have 10-15 children attending these groups. The Together Program playgroups has always benefitted from the help and support of the parents and nannies. The program could not happen without them. They continue to be very committed and grateful to Immanuel for her commitment to young children and families. They volunteer to bring the snacks and help as needed in class. Thank you Immanuel for your continued support! The Together Program continues to be a meaningful and successful outreach to our neighborhood. I believe that the church reflects God’s love and light to those who enter our doors every day of the week. You are always welcome to visit one of playgroups any Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Be prepared to smile!

Michelle Knapp - Founder, Director and Teacher at the Immanuel Together Program


Latino Outreach Team (Now known as the Community Outreach Team) Over the past year, Team members worked to articulate their goals. The Team was originally convened in 2015 as part of Immanuel’s Forward in Faith goals, specifically to “provide a Spanish-speaking worship opportunity.” The Latino Outreach team met with Rev. Hector Garfias-Toledo of the MCS office on two occasions. Team members invited Pastor Garfias-Toledo to seek his help and guidance. In addition to pastor Hector, the meeting was attended by Marcia Smith, Edie Lange, John and Laura Damer, Will Swanson and Pastor Monte. It was a wide-ranging discussion. After lengthy discussion, prayer, and reflection, the Team sought Council’s blessing to refocus their mission. Team members felt the need to clarify our ultimate goal, which those present agreed was to welcome and integrate our diverse neighbors to better reflect the diversity of Edgewater (which is comprised of approximately 50% people of color), rather than create another (or separate) worship service in the Spanish language. The Immanuel Church Council ratified this new statement of its purpose at its January 2018 meeting. In 2017, the Team implemented several small steps to better welcome Latinos and other guests on Sundays. Spanish subtitles were added to the worship folder. Readings each Sunday are provided in Spanish. A session of Godly Play was done with tutoring families and throughout the week of Vacation Bible School. A welcome gift, including coffee mug, pen, and information is provided for all guests. Of course, the use of nametags on Sundays is well-accepted and has helped to foster relationships throughout the congregation. Going forward, the Team has planned bridge events to foster relationships between groups, such as a shared field trip to the Chicago history museum, presentation at the Forum, and other encounters between members of the Immanuel worshipping community and tutoring families. We discussed ways make it clear to tutoring families why it is part of Immanuel’s mission of being a living sanctuary to welcome them, regardless of religious background, to learn and thrive. The Team also remains committed to


encouraging members of Immanuel to undergo the excellent anti-racism training provided by the Metro-Chicago Synod. We look forward to an excellent 2018!

Mission Resource Allocation The MRA is a congregational committee, which has primary responsibility for recommending and awarding grants to support Lutheran and neighborhood ministries. The committee also administers the Klos Scholarship Program. The committee has nine members. Five serve ex officio, according to their elected or appointed positions in the congregation: Pastor Monte Johnson, congregational treasurer Donna Bartz, Finance Committee chair Harold Burkett, Endowment Fund Committee chair John Damer, and congregational president Rick Gustafson. Four member were elected by the congregation: Edie Lange, Ken Olsen, Dorothy Webster, and Marge Hanson (2016-2017 term; succeeded by Henrietta Lowery in 2018). The committee wishes to thank Marge for her many contributions to its work and also welcomes Henrietta to her new position. The MRA committee had requested a total of $13,500 for 2018 grants. This amount was modified during the budget process, and a total of $10,600 was approved by the congregational meeting on November 12, 2017. These grants will be disbursed during 2018:

Holy Family Ministries -- $1200 Music That Makes Community -- $750

Night Ministry -- emergency housing -- $1000 Lutheran Campus Ministry at Northwestern University -- $500

Care for Real -- $800 Crossing Cambodia -- $750

Refugee One -- $1200 ELCA Disaster Relief -- $1000 ELCA World Hunger Campaign -- $1000 Lutheran Schools of the Holy Land -- $500

CROP Walk -- $600 Pioneers Baccalaureate School -- $500

Concordia Place -- $800 Requests for 2019 grants and any questions concerning past or future grants should be addressed to Donna Bartz, chair; Edie Lange, secretary; or any member of the committee. Respectfully submitted, Donna Bartz, MRA chair Richard Anderson, MRA consultant


On The Way Immanuel’s catechumenate called On The Way entered its sixth year in 2017. Currently we have three persons planning to affirm their baptism at the Easter Vigil (7:00 PM, March 31, 2018) including as many as two new members. On The Way is a time to inquire, explore, prepare and discover – a process of spiritual growth and renewal where we gather around the word of God and reflect on our relationship with Jesus Christ. Our journey follows an ancient process of welcoming adult believers to the faith. Questions, doubts and hopes are all welcome as we look for answers together. On the Way may mean different things to different people. For those not baptized it is initiation. For the baptized it is growth, deepening faith and strengthening ministry. For some it is a way to become a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. For some it may simply be a way to discover more about God and life in Christ. On the Way is the journey of a lifetime.

ONE Northside

ONE NORTHSIDE (Organizing Neighborhoods for Equality)

As part of Immanuel's commitment to social justice and involvement in the community, we have been a ONE Northside member more than 20 years. ONE Northside is made up of neighborhood cultural, religious, non-profit, school and business institutions. Its many action teams work to improve: Affordable Housing, Economic Justice, Education, Environmental Justice, Mental Health Justice, Violence Prevention, Voter Engagement and Workers’ Rights. As Immanuel’s elected liaison, I participated in the following in 2017: • One-on-one with Affordable Housing leader Ashal Yai at The Perfect Cup January 31. • ONE Membership Council meetings held at Northshore Baptist Church March 9, June

8 and September 9 (voted for new board members and for updated strategic plan). • ONE Affordable Housing team meetings January 24, March 2, and July 13; and Right

to Purchase team meeting September 26. • Attended inauguration protest at Wabash and Wacker downtown January 20. • Various community meetings re: Affordable Housing:

o 47th Ward community meeting re: plans for 1825 W. Lawrence property. (Wrote summary for ONE Northside & concerned neighborhood friends.)

o 47th Ward community homeless forum at Sulzer Library March 27. o Winchester Block Club meeting with 47th Ward re: plans for former Sears

Lawrence Avenue building July 11.


o 47th Ward Transit-Oriented Development meeting at DANK House August 22.

• Signed ONE Northside online petitions: o For SB-1405 to raise mental health PNA from $30 to $100. o For SB-1353 to raise mental health PNA from $30 to $60, and for it to be heard by

House Human Service Appropriations Committee. o For HB-3871 to prioritize payments for education and human services over

financial services and banks. o For HR-455 sponsored by Rep. Greg Harris urging defeat of American Health Care

Act (restricting MEDICAID). o To keep Wilson Men’s Hotel open in uptown October 29.

I serve on the ONE Northside Affordable Housing team. Other Immanuel members and staff have participated in other actions. 2018 ONE Northside challenges are to continue to find more ways to raise awareness of how cuts to social services and other programs impact those using the programs, and to influence our elected officials to work with ONE towards a more people-first agenda. ONE Northside also plans a convention for 2018, TBA. Volunteers are always welcome. ONE Northside provides speakers to any group who would like to learn more about a particular action team or issue. For information www.onenorthside.org. It is an exciting way to make a difference! Gloria L. Evenson, Immanuel Liaison to ONE Northside

Prayer Ministry—David’s Chain Lord our God, how great is your love, and how great is your help! May each one of us feel sheltered in your hand, knowing that our faults and shortcomings no longer matter. We can go straight toward the goal you have set, for you will help us through the forgiveness of sins and through all the good you can put into our hearts. And so we ask you to be with us. May we be faithful, believing firmly in your great mercy, so that your name may be glorified among us. May each heart be given the comfort of knowing that everything will yet turn to the good, to the glory of your name. Amen.

I believe God has a sense of humor. When I left home it was 2 degrees and sunny. I write this on a deck in the Atlantic Ocean on New Smyrna Beach (Cathy, Atlantic and 27th). It is 65 degrees, but hasn’t stopped raining for 3 days.

I am writing to invite you to and encourage you to attend the Prayer Retreat on January 20th. The information has been in the Newsletter and Bulletin. There is a signup sheet in the Narthex, or you can call the Church Office to Register. There will be food, so it will be important to register in advance.


There s parking in the garage, but again the Garage Attendants would like to know in advance how many cars to expect.

Rev. Stephen Bouman, Steve, will be our presenter. You have heard him preach, so you know that we can expect to be led by a thoughtful Theologian who loves the Lord and will be prepared and anxious to share with us what he has seen and heard about prayer and those who have been touched by our Lord Through prayer in his 45 years of Ordained Ministry.

As we begin another year of Ministry together. I would like to say that I have been blessed to be the convener of our Prayer Life. I believe we have each, in one way or another, been blessed as we bring before God Our requests for healing and Thanksgiving for Blessings. Please continue in 2018 to bring to my attention all names and events that we, as one, can make known to our Lord.

I am Thankful for my Mom, Florence, who turns 90 on January 20th and for my Father-in-Law, Paul, who will turn 100 in August. I have been richly Blessed to be loved and nurtured by two wonderful people of Faith.

God Bless each of you, your Families, our Church, and our Nation in this New Year. Janet Bouman, 2018

Ushers The Ushers Ministry Team assists in all worship services by welcoming all who come to Immanuel. We participate in worship services by collecting and presenting the offering, guiding the assembly during Communion, inviting visitors to the coffee hour, and cleaning the pews after each service. We also are prepared to seek help should anyone have a medical emergency. Generally each member of the Usher Ministry Team serves at one service a month. They are also extraordinary in volunteering for the special holiday services when extra help is always needed. Thank you to those who have served this last year for your dedication: Donna Bartz, Ron Bartz, Sheryl Burkhalter, Margaret Hanson, Wayne Hanson, Earl Heppner, Elizabeth Heppner, Mary Johnson, Georgiana Micholas, Donna Olsen, Ken Olsen, Barbara Ross, William Ross, Stephnie Posey, Donald Smith, Phil Soosloff, David Wilkinson, and Barta Wilson. Ushering is a rewarding way to serve our congregation and visitors. There is always a need for more volunteers in this ministry. If you would like to know more, please talk with any of us. Margaret Hanson

Youth Ministry-ECT E.C.T. Youth Group is a joint youth group among Unity, Ebenezer, and Immanuel Lutheran Churches in Edgewater. The mission of E.C.T. Youth Group is to provide a safe, fun, and caring environment for youth in middle and high school and to grow and build disciples of Jesus Christ. Leaders: At the beginning of the year, regular Wednesday night E.C.T. youth group leaders included: Jonathan Dodrill (my husband), Lupe Bonilla (young adult/former E.C.T. youth), Luz Colin (college


student/former E.C.T. youth group leader), Molly Castillo-Keefe (Immanuel Lutheran), and Aaron Copley (Ebenezer Lutheran). Leadership changed this summer when several of the youth group leaders had schedule conflicts. This fall, Lupe Bonilla and Molly Castillo-Keefe and Gennene Johnson (Ebenezer Lutheran) came when they were available. Jonathan Dodrill, Amy Pooley (Ebenezer), Ruth Orme-Johnson (Ebenezer), Jordan Collins-Brown and Viola Collins-Brown (Edison Park Lutheran), and Marcia Smith (Ebenezer/Immanuel’s parish nurse) became regular youth group leaders (for Wednesdays and special events). Additionally, Samantha Nichols (seminarian at LSTC) became a regular youth group leader as part of her internship at First Trinity Lutheran Church (under the supervision of Pastor Tom Gaulke and under my mentorship.) Additional Leaders who have helped with other youth group events throughout the year (driving, chaperoning, and/or cooking): Dave Goeltzer (Ebenezer), Tim Johnson (Ebenezer), Ngbarezere Frezar (college student/former youth group member), John Damer (Immanuel), Pastor Monte Johnson (Immanuel), Marcia Smith (Ebenezer/Immanuel), Ann O. Hicks (Ebenezer), Kalleb Miller (college student/former youth group member), Ngbarezere Frezar, Boyosa Frezar (college student/former youth group member). During the school year, E.C.T. Youth Group meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month. Community meal begins at 6:15pm, program is from 7-8:30pm, and free time/open gym lasts from 8:30-9:00pm. The program includes group games, a faith discussion, and worship (often with communion). Last spring, between 13-22 youth consistently came to Wednesday night youth group on a given night. Beginning in the fall, between 20-27 youth have consistently attended Wednesday gatherings. While many of these youth are members of one of our congregations, several youth are part of the Ebenezer or Immanuel tutoring programs or come from the neighborhood and have no or little church affiliation. In addition to Wednesday night gatherings, the E.C.T. Youth Group attends special events or service projects about once a month. Some of these included:

v Annual End of Year BBQ: In mid-June, we had our annual end of year bbq and senior send-off. 15 youth attended.

v ELCA Metro-Chicago Synod Confirmation & Senior High Retreat: On Feb. 3-5, 17 E.C.T. youth and 3 adults attended the annual ELCA Metro-Chicago Synod winter retreat at Lutherdale Bible Camp. The group had a wonderful time learning about the Lord’s Prayer and other prayer practices, worshipping together, tobogganing, dancing, hiking, and getting to know youth from other churches.

v Annual Edgewater Congregations Together Youth-Led Ascension Service: On Thursday, May 25, 13 Edgewater Congregations Together youth group and confirmation members participated in the Ascension Day youth-led service. It was a beautiful service, where the youth served as greeters, ushers, communion servers, the crucifer, scripture readers, music leaders, liturgists, and preachers. During the service, they took up an offering (and collected close to $300), which will go toward the summer mission/service/learning trip to Iowa in August.

v Annual End of Year BBQ: In mid-June, we had our annual end of year bbq and senior send-off. 15 youth attended. Annual Back To School BBQ: In mid-Sept.,


we had a bbq in the front lawn at Immanuel, went on a photo scavenger hunt in the neighborhood, and played get to know you games in the gym. 25 youth attended. Several congregation members joined the youth.

v Pumpkin Craze Event with Edgewater Youth Coalition: In late Oct., we joined other Edgewater youth groups at Abbey Farms pumpkin patch in Aurora on a Sat. night. There, we enjoyed a bonfire with smores, corn maze in the dark, and games. 22 ECT youth attended along with 2 young adult leaders and 5 adults.

v ELCA Metro-Chicago Synod Ultimate Lock-In: On Nov. 10-11, 32 ECT youth, 3 adults, and 3 college student youth group leaders joined 250+ youth from the Metro-Chicago synod for their annual all-night ultimate lock-in at Enchanted Castle. From 9pm-11:45pm, we heard live music from singer/songwriter Trey Pearson. From 12am-5:00am, we enjoyed pizza, karaoke, movies, bumper cars, go-carts, laser tag, and games.

v 1st PARENT NIGHT OUT FUNDRAISER (For ELCA Youth Gathering): On Saturday, Dec. 2, the youth group hosted its first Parent Night Out Fundraiser for the ELCA Youth Gathering at Immanuel Lutheran Church from 4-8pm. 9 children (ages 2 ½- 5th grade) attended. 7 middle-high school youth babysat the children and led them in games, crafts, and other fun activities. 6 adults supervised the event. The youth and children had a wonderful time. The youth raised $140 to go toward the ELCA Youth Gathering.

v E.C.T. Youth Group Christmas Party: On Dec. 13, 29 youth and 8 adult leaders gathered for the annual E.C.T. youth group Christmas party, where they had dinner, participated in a service project, and played Christmas-themed games.

2017 Mission Service and Learning Trip to Dubuque, Iowa: I also planned, coordinated, and led 24 youth (from the E.C.T. youth group, Ebenezer tutoring program, First Trinity Lutheran, Christ Lutheran, Epworth UMC), a mission/service and learning trip to Dubuque, IA Saturday, August 5-Thursday, August 10. This was the third trip to Dubuque (the first was in 2014 and second was in 2016). During the trip, youth participated in team building exercises at Four Mounds high/low ropes course, led worship on Sunday morning at their host church, and had fun exploring Dubuque. During the week, the youth volunteered at the Swiss Valley Nature Center, Dubuque Rescue Mission, St. Isidore Catholic Worker Farm, Sinsinawa Mound (Dominican Motherhouse), and at the host church’s community garden. Additionally, they heard from speakers about faith and justice. On Wednesday evening, the youth went to a Westminster Presbyterian member’s farm outside of town for a bonfire and a hayride and they ended the trip on Thursday with a closing worship service with communion. Every night, the youth gathered together for worship and to discuss the week’s theme: “proclaiming good news” based on Luke 4:14-21. Through large and small groups, they learned what it means to proclaim good news: to follow Jesus in his way of life that is centered around loving God by loving our neighbors and being good stewards of all God’s creation. The last night of the trip, they gathered with their small groups to share what they appreciated about each person in their group. This was an incredibly powerful event for youth in our congregations and community, as they developed relationships with other youth from their community in a positive and safe space, grew in


their faith understanding, practiced service and led worship, worshipped together, experienced a new setting, and had the opportunity to travel to a new place. We hope to return to Dubuque for another mission, service, and learning trip in August 2019. In addition to running E.C.T. youth ministry activities, I provide pastoral care for E.C.T. youth and their parents/guardians and have attended a few of the E.C.T. youth’s games and performances. I also worked very closely with the one E.C.T. youth senior, who graduated from high school in May. I helped him apply to colleges and scholarships, assisted him with college/financial aid prep, and took him on college visits. I continue to meet regularly (1-2 times a month) with two college students (who live in Chicago) and another young adult (former youth group member) who recently graduated from Lincoln Tech College. Additionally, I connect with the two out of town college students every once in a while over the phone, in person during their breaks, or over social media. I co-lead confirmation with the E.C.T. lead pastors at the beginning of the school year and at the end of each 6-week rotation. This has enabled me to get to know some of the confirmation students and to start bridging the gap between Confirmation and E.C.T. Youth Group participants. I have been working on new ways to develop some intergenerational worship/gathering opportunities, as I believe it is very important for people of all ages to get to know and support one another and worship/gather together. The last two years during Holy Week, we opened up our annual interactive stations of the cross to the rest of our E.C.T. congregation members. This was such a success, so we will continue to do the same thing this year during Holy Week, as well as during our Advent prayer stations event during youth group. Vacation Bible School: This year, I coordinated Vacation Bible School. It was our second year collaborating between our E.C.T. congregations: Immanuel, Unity, and Ebenezer. This was a great opportunity for me to get to know the children in all three congregations (as well as in the neighborhood) and for the children from the three churches and neighborhood to get to know each other better before reaching E.C.T. youth group age. 35 children participated and 20 adults volunteered. Throughout the week, children learned about the life and times of Jesus. Each day they gathered for music and to learn about the story, Bible verse, and theme of the day. Then they gathered for story time, participated in games, crafts, bread baking, and service projects. 2018 ELCA Youth Gathering (in Houston) Every three years, the ELCA puts on a Youth Gathering, where 30,000+ 9th-12th graders and adult leaders gather for worship, to hear speakers and musicians, join their synod for discussions, and practice justice and service in and around their host city. This summer and fall, I held parent/guardian info meetings, spoke with potential participates/guardians over the phone, planned the financial needs and fundraisers, and have been trying to figure out the best transportation options. 12 E.C.T. youth have registered for the trip (2 members of Ebenezer, 3 members of Immanuel, 1 member of Unity, 1 member of Ebenezer tutoring program, and 5 other youth group members who are from the neighborhood.) Pastor Michael Fick (Ebenezer) and I will be leading the group.


The estimated cost of the trip will be $1500-$1550 per person. (14 people total) We have received a $3000 scholarship grant from the ELCA Youth Gathering, have applied for grants from Ebenezer and Immanuel, and raised $140 at our first Parent Night Out fundraiser. We will be doing 2 more Parent Night Out Fundraisers throughout the year and collect a special offering for the Youth Gathering at our annual Youth-Led Ascension Day service. There will be one or two additional fundraisers in the spring, as well. I would like to thank all of our E.C.T. youth group volunteers, Vacation Bible School volunteers, Sunday School teachers, cooks, and individual financial contributors for your continuous cooperation and commitment to investing in our children and youth! Your investment in our children and youth is so important! It’s a joy to work with each of you! Rev. Emily Heitzman

160+ The mission of Ministry Team 160+ was once defined as ‘doing the things that everyone wants done but nobody wants to do.’ Created after a series of successful events during Immanuel’s 160th anniversary year, the team is active in three main areas of congregational life: tours, special events, and publications. Barta Wilson and Richard Anderson are co-leaders of the team, which also includes David Wilkinson, Ken and Donna Olsen, Gloria Evenson, and Nick Holmberg. More than a dozen additional people have assisted in the team’s projects in 2017. The only tour conducted by 160+ this year was for new members on May 21. It is anticipated that two such tours will be planned for 2018, one in the spring and one in the fall. ‘Special events’ translates largely into meals. This was a big year for meals organized by the team. These included the Founders Day luncheon, January 22; Egon Weiner luncheon, May 7; ‘Mad Hatter Tea Party’ for Buddy’s Book Club, May 20; reception for Reformation Hymnsing, October 6; Forum luncheon, October 15; Reformation Sunday Martin Luther Dinner, October 29; and Advent Brunch, December 3. Members of the team also assisted with the memorial luncheon for Kathy Anderson on September 2. The support of the Forum and the Reformation 500 Team has made possible the addition of several items to the catalogue of Immanuel publications. New titles published this year were Founders, a study of the early years of Immanuel; Egon Weiner: Spirit and Form, an introduction to the work of this important sculptor; Pietism: the Second Reformation, tracing the history of a religious movement from the Reformation to current religious politics; and Jacob Riis: the power of images, a companion to the Forum presentation. Four publications which were begun in 2017 are on a release schedule for 2018; they include the first booklet in a series on the ethnic roots of American Lutherans. This volume will cover the Danish Lutherans in America, and a second volume in this series will deal with the general question of


Lutheran ethnicity. The major publishing project for 2018 will be Women of Spirit, a history of the significant roles played by women in the history of Immanuel. Darleen Alberts and Richard Anderson will be co-editors of the projected 60-page book; research and writing will occupy much of 2018, and release is planned for mid-2019.

Respectfully submitted Richard J Anderson Team co-leader

Staff

Cantor 2016 marked the beginning of my third year with you as your Cantor and I continue to be gratified in the work we do together. As I’ve said here every year, it is a joy to work with the staff and people of Immanuel, even in the face of difficulties and change. The worship life of this congregation is strong, and together we engage in the mysteries of faith each week which strengthen us for mission in the world. Song, liturgy, prayer, silence, proclamation: all of these combine to convey the means of God’s grace to us. Our work together is holy and our mission is urgent. It is my prayer that our liturgy gives voice to the beauty of God’s holiness, the power of God’s creative energy, and the grace of God’s inclusive love. THANKSGIVINGS As I reflect on the past year, several highlights are important to recognize in this year-end reflection:

1. I’m deeply grateful for the choir and their faithful leadership each Sunday and festival. Their work is essential to my ministry with you. I am also grateful for the section leaders and soloists who add “leaven to the loaf” and enrich our ensemble. Our choir is one who’s primary function is to support assembly singing. They also work to provide varied choral offerings week after week. I am very happy to have them as partners in leading the worship of Immanuel.

2. I’m grateful for the many volunteers whose work impacts our worship: for the worship team who offers feedback and planning for the seasons; for Nick Holmberg, Chuck Carper, and Connie Brink who have stepped up to do the worship leader scheduling and coordinating that Libby Trost did; for Dorothy Webster and her team who energetically care for the altar and steward “holy things for holy people;” and for Barta and the property team who see to it that all things are maintained and in good order. Immanuel’s great music and liturgy don’t “just happen.” It takes commitment and dedication to do what we do. Their work allows us who are worship leaders to focus on our tasks and enter in to the spirit of worship focused and prepared.


3. I’m proud of the work the children do each month as we rehearse and sing after

Godly Play and sing at worship. Their voices are important. Teaching them the songs of faith is also an important.

4. The Bach cantata sung by the choir, soloists, and orchestra on Holy Trinity Sunday was a wonderful event. These things are made possible by your gifts to the Music Fund!

5. I was energized (and a little exhausted) by “Jesus Christ Superstar” this summer. Kari Johnson is an incomparable gift and pulled it off with great success. I’m still impressed with how it all came together so beautifully! Let’s do it again!

6. I’m pleased that the third annual Advent Procession service was warmly received and look forward to this continuing as a regular part of our seasonal observances. John Damer, his family, and friends are to be commended for a superb dinner that followed!

7. The ECRA Thanksgiving service was hosted by Immanuel and I was relieved and pleased at how well the service was received. Pulling together something like this with so many moving parts and people is no slight task!

8. Reformation 500 planning started to take shape during 2016, and keep on the lookout for 2017 events commemorating 500 years of the Reformation.

9. I’m grateful for all the help and support given me as I’ve begun my Master of Sacred Music degree at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. Starting this past summer, I split my time between there and Chicago, and when school is in session, being at Immanuel only Saturdays and Sundays. I’m thankful for electronic communication, iCloud document sharing, a generous and understanding congregation, and a good car. I will conclude my degree program in spring of 2018.

BY THE NUMBERS During 2016 I played and led music for 63 liturgies at Immanuel and led 47 choral rehearsals. In addition, I planned and prepared for all worship services at Immanuel, making and providing worship folders and leader guides. I composed incidental music for many of those liturgies and prepared solo works and improvisations as well. Much of my weekly work is in the preparation and planning of worship material behind the scenes with the result being shared in the liturgy. I also open the building on Sunday mornings. LOOKING FORWARD In addition to continue strengthening our liturgical and musical offerings, I hope we can begin to turn toward the long-held dream of renewing our worship spaces. Hardly a week goes by without a conversation in some fashion about the desires to improve and enhance our worship environment for our current congregation’s size and liturgical style. Some dreams on my wish list:

1. Seating: Comfortable, robust, and architecturally complimentary chairs for use in the Lanquist Memorial Chapel and in the front of the nave. Refinished and


repaired pews. Making additional space for flexible seating toward the front and increased gathering space under the balcony.

2. Flexibility: Determine the best way to both honor our architectural style and our desire for flexibility in differing worship practices and uses of our sanctuary (summer style, Taizé, plays/shows, musical performances, etc.).

3. Baptismal space: A permanent, large, and well-placed baptismal font that adequately reflects our historic Lutheran baptismal theology, practice, and architectural style.

4. Systems: Improved lighting, sound, and cooling systems. 5. Flooring: Covering the concrete in the flexible seating/open areas with an

appropriate durable material to minimize the feeling of “temporary.” 6. Columbarium: Join the movement in many churches of returning burial to the

church by considering the placement of a columbarium with niches for the interment of ashes in the Lanquist Chapel or another place.

What’s on YOUR dream list?! Is it time to start thinking about our worship space and how it ministers to us and our community? BIG PICTURE After all is said and done, the most important work I’m involved in is the work we do together as the assembly at worship. The assembly is the visual and sonic embodiment of the Body of Christ. My charge is to facilitate that sonic embodiment each week. We do that together in a variety of ways and in a variety of styles. This is why the term Cantor is so important. My role is as a leader who strives to inspire the work of communal singing, using any and all resources available. My prayer is that we continue to strengthen our song and in so doing be strengthened in mission for the life of the world. There is so much to sing about and so much love to share. Let’s move forward in faith to do the bold work of ministry. Respectfully submitted, Cantor Daniel E. Schwandt January 2017


Parish Administrator The Community of Immanuel continues to strive to be that living sanctuary of hope and grace! It’s my privilege and joy to help Immanuel communicate God’s presence and work in this community. We have a wonderful story of faith and the good news of God’s unfailing love to share. Below is a partial list of accomplished tasks for 2016. This is not meant to be exhaustive, but rather a brief way to see the work that takes place to help us tell the story.

Office Order supplies Scanning all bills and sending scans to Treasurer daily Filing photocopy of all bills into monthly AP files Keep narthex supplied with marketing materials Email campaigns for calendar maintenance Annual Report compilation. Revise forms as needed

Communication/Marketing Insert preparation and planning e-News updating and sending Semi-Monthly Newsletter published and distributed Marketing materials development, revision and publication including image design Page-by-page review & revisions of website site end of each month Update key pages of website weekly Provide budgetary advice for Communications Committee on Costs Produce an informal directory of members and friends—2 editions Revision of e-News and Semi-Monthly Print News to Use Newsletter Meetings Council / Leadership Training by Metro Chicago Synod Communications Committee Weekly/Daily meeting with Pastor as needed/Staff Meetings Reformation 500 Team

Planning Discussions with the Key Contacts Re: Calendar Holiday preparations Marketing Content

As we move forward into the mission objectives for 2018 and beyond I am reminded of how important it is for all of us to be open to communication and change. Means, methods and life itself changes, our Hope (thanks be to God!) does not. May our various ministries grow and flourish. May we carry the hope that is steadfast and sure to everyone we encounter every day! We are now and we are becoming a living sanctuary of hope and grace!

Respectfully, Madeline Lund


Parish Nurse Immanuel’s new parish nurse, Marcia Smith, began her ministry on January 9, 2017. She began by meeting with many groups and individuals of Immanuel in order to learn about their needs, concerns, and ideas. With support from the former parish nurse, Michelle Knapp, and many other helpful staff persons and members of Immanuel, Marcia got into her groove and is enjoying the varied duties, opportunities and challenges of the parish nurse ministry. Early in the year Marcia surveyed members of the church to determine areas of interest and concern.

Results indicated mental health as an area in need of attention. The parish nurse has offered educational programs and has supported and promoted a mental health support group. This group called Esprit is held at and run by individuals from Ebenezer but is open to all.

Marcia facilitated the caregivers’ support group until November, 2017. Despite a concerted effort to get the word out about the group to the community at large and to invite more people to participate, attendance was very low and the decision was made to discontinue the meetings. Marcia will continue to be in contact with individuals from the group, however, to offer support as needed. Wellness Screening was again organized by the parish nurse in spring at Immanuel. She also initiated several new activities open to the community. There were new educational programs including Stop the Bleed, and Mental Health First Aid. She held a flu shot clinic in October at Immanuel in collaboration with pharmacists at Mariano’s. The parish nurse ministry continues at Ebenezer Lutheran Church as well as Immanuel. Much of the programming the nurse develops is open to both congregations. In July she pulled off a joint outing to the Botanic Garden with seniors from both Immanuel and Ebenezer. It was great fun and a great fellowship opportunity for members of both churches. The parish nurse is reaching out to our wider community by getting involved with various groups which meet at Immanuel. This not only helps strengthen the community but by getting to know other people it can inform the nurse’s future programming and the congregation as a whole in its outreach. She is now active in the Latino Outreach Ministry Team and hopes to help bridge the gap between Immanuel and our diverse community members.

When able, Marcia participates in the ECT youth group activities and even went on their mission trip to Iowa in August serving as a driver as well as nurse. She visits with students' parents during tutoring on Mondays and is getting to know children and some parents at the nursery school by visiting a couple of their classrooms in her role as “Nurse Marcia-mallow.” She also arranged an intergenerational event with the seniors and one of the nursery school classes. The parish nurse continues Immanuel's tradition of anointing during communion once a month. As part of the prayer ministry team she helped organize the special prayer and anointing service held in October in recognition of St. Luke, the physician. She is also helping to plan the prayer retreat which is to be held on January 20. Marcia is participating with other staff and lay leaders at Immanuel in the ongoing activities initiated at the synod Leadership Training in September.


Marcia offers blood pressure readings at coffee hour when able. This has been on hold recently due to equipment failure but will resume in January with new a sphygmomanometer! She meets with the seniors group twice a month provides programming once per month and joins in the conversation and fellowship at all meetings. The group ended the year with a well-attended advent luncheon where we ate, talked, laughed and sang carols.

Maybe most important to the parish nurse ministry are the many one-on-one interactions the parish nurse has with members of our community. She continues to visit the homebound and those hospitalized or in rehab. She accompanies people to doctor appointments when there is a need. She provides support, information and advocacy to many people by phone, at the church or wherever the need arises and the opportunity exists. Beginning January 1, 2018 another significant change occurred in Immanuel's parish nurse ministry. Advocate Health Care, the longtime employer of many parish nurses, has greatly curtailed its support of the parish nurse ministries in the Chicago area. Advocate laid off Immanuel's and all but 3 of its parish nurses at the end of 2017. It offered a stipend to the churches for 2018 to help them in the transition of being the direct employers of these nurses and towards covering the cost of the nurses' benefits and entire salaries. Immanuel's congregation voted to accept Advocate's offer and a contract was signed with the parish nurse for 2018. With faith and hope the ministry will continue beyond 2018. Careful consideration and prayer will be needed for the congregation to discern the future of the parish nurse ministry.


Membership 2017 Members as of 12/31/2016

Confirmed 120 Associate Members 5 Baptized Children 17

Total 142

Member Deaths Kathy Anderson 1

Member Transfers Out Member Transfers In Ron Moser 1 none 0

Member Removed 0

New Members by Baptism Stephanie Posey 1

New members by Affirmation of Faith Ed & Royce Engle Jessica Engle Paul Johnson James & Margit Kegal Stephanie Posey

7

Members as of 12/31/2016 Confirmed 132

Associate Members 7 (6 adult 1 youth) Baptized Children 9

ELCA TOTAL 148 Regular Participants/Non-Members

Adults 56 Children 6

Total Adults 144 Children 15 Grand Total 159

Average Sunday Attendance by Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 88 96 93 86 82 81 72 68 69 68


Leadership 2017 Church Council

President Rick Gustafson

Vice President David Wilkinson

Secretary Natalie Warden

Treasurer Donna Bartz

Financial Secretary Nancy McDonough

Members Janet Bouman

Sheryl Burkhalter

Doug Fox

Donna Olsen

William Ross

Leadership 2018 Church Council

President Rick Gustafson [email protected]

Vice President David Wilkinson [email protected]

Secretary Natalie Warden [email protected]

Treasurer Donna Bartz [email protected]

Financial Secretary Nancy McDonough [email protected]

Members Sheryl Burkhalter [email protected]

Molly Castillo [email protected]

Doug Fox [email protected]

Donna Olsen [email protected]

William Ross [email protected]



Documents

Annual Reports 2017 - Constant Contactfiles.constantcontact.com/1ebb34fa001/7cd35e96... · Immanuel Lutheran Church Annual Reports 2016 7 Reviewing budget Notes from Rick highlighting