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NORTHERN LIGHT UNITED CHURCH
Juneau, AK
Annual Meeting of the Congregation January 29, 2017
Agenda
* Denotes Action Item
Call to Order NW Coast Presbytery Exec. Corey Schlosser-Hall
Invocation
Denominational Greetings
Establishing a Quorum (All church members may vote):
*Approval of the Agenda
*Approval of the Minutes from 1/31/16 Annual Meeting and the 5/15/16 called meeting
Visioning Café – rotating small group explorations of congregational goals and strategies
Potluck
Reports from Congregational Entities - written reports distributed in advance of the meeting
*Elections—Nominating Committee Report, Council, Deacons, Staff-Parish, Property
*Election of 2016 Nominating Committee
Additional Business to come before the congregation
Announcements
Closing Prayer
Adjournment
2
Table of Contents
January 31, 2016 Annual Meeting Minutes…………………….………..3-5
May 16, 2016 Special Meeting Minutes……………………….……………6
Church Council Report…………………………………………………....6,7
Visioning Plan Summary………………………………………………...8-10
Nominating Committee Report……………………………………………11
Treasurer’s Report………………………………………………..........12-15
Balance Sheet…………………………………………………………........ 15
Budget……………………………………………………………….......16-21
Staff Parish Relations Committee Report………………………..…...21,22
Deacons Report…………………………………………….…………..23,24
Committee on Property Management Report… …………………….… 25
Committee of Community Opportunities Report…………………....26,27
Native Ministries Report………………………………………............28,29
Library Committee Report……………………………………..………...29
Community of Christian Women Report………………………………..30
Juneau Youth Ministry Cooperative Report …………………...……...31
Pastor’s Report……………………………………………….…….…32-34
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2015 Annual Meeting Northern Light United Church, January 31, 2016
Minutes
Call to Order
Corey Schlosser-Hall, the Executive Presbyter of the Northwest Coast Presbytery welcomed all to the
annual meeting and then turned the meeting over to Northern Light Council Moderator Anne
Standerwick.
Corey Schlosser-Hall from the Northwest Coast Presbytery greeted us from the other Presbyteries in the
Northwest. He explained that the organization will soon welcome more churches to be part of the group.
Phil presented greetings from Carlo Rapanut, District Superintendent, District Superintendent of the
Alaska Conference of the Western Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church.
Phil reviewed Carlo Rapanut’s ―six passions‖ or challenges for his vision for the United Methodist
Church in Alaska: Call; Engage; Welcome; Connect; Disciple; Risk
NLUC 2014-2106 Visioning Plan Update
Natalie Norberg, Joy Lyon and Myra Munson have worked extensively on the Visioning Plan. Natalie
has been the prime person who has updated the Visioning Plan for council.
Phil expressed thanks to Jim Becker who had the vision to keep the goals and visioning plans on the
council’s agenda every month.
Natalie prepared a PowerPoint presentation to review the work of the Visioning Plan.
Pastor’s Report
Phil thanked the congregation for support for the time he was away for surgery and recovery, which
spanned two program years. He had three surgeries in a period of three months. He expressed
appreciation for all who stepped up to help during that time.
Phil invited folks to read his report. Phil noted that there has been a bit of a dip in the worship
attendance, and he has been concerned about that.
He shared a statement from Walter Soboleff that, ―We can each invite someone to church.‖
Phil stated that we are a generous congregation and a financially gifted congregation. We make amazing
use of our financial resources that we share with ourselves and others. We have an abundance of time
and talent that is shared.
Treasurer’s Report
Jim Alter reported from the phone. He asks if there were any questions or comments. He thanked
everyone who is part of our congregation for their incredible financial generosity. Our church is in
excellent financial condition. This is the fourth consecutive year that our giving has met or exceeded our
budget. Preliminarily, 2015 was an amazing year: not only did we meet our budget for activity,
programs, and staffing for the year, beyond that in 2015 the congregation gave over $130,000 for ―ad-
hoc‖ identified giving during the year. This was directed support above and beyond what we had
budgeted for.
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Judy Knight expressed thanks to Jim Alter for all the hours he has put into doing a wonderful job as
treasurer.
Jim is hoping to transition out of the treasurer position so if anyone is interested let him know.
Committee on Property Management
George Reifenstein reported on the work on CPM as the chair, Nico Bus, is out of town.
Celebration of Music
Gail O’Dell led us in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖
Staff Parish Relations Committee Report
Marianne Mills chaired the SPRC during the past year. She gave a special thanks to Joy Lyon who
served as Vice Chair and to Jim Alter who served as secretary.
Committee on Community Opportunities Report
Melody Millard reported on the activities of the COCO. In addition to the annual report, she reported on
the work of Haven House, which was supported by COCO.
Deacons Report
Kate thanked Margaret Pugh, who served as treasurer, and outgoing deacon Theresa Araki. She
presented the deacon’s annual report.
Celebration of Music
Gail O’Dell led us again in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖
Community of Christian Women Report
Carol Barril reported on the activities of CCW. The next meeting will be the last Saturday in February.
All women are invited. They will discuss how to use the money earned during the bazaar.
Marion Gotschall reported on one of the projects that did not get into the report. Last year CCW
received patterns and fabric to create hygiene kits that were sent to Guatemala. This project was a big
success, with almost 400 kits given out to girls.
Native Ministries Report
Barbara Searls reviewed the Native Ministries Annual Report. She highlighted the work done with the
Yakutat Presbyterian Church.
Cooperative Youth Group
There is a visual display of the activities of the Cooperative Youth Group.
Sunday School
There is a visual display of activities of the Sunday School.
Council Report
Anne Standerwick highlighted three items with a ―show and tell.‖
- Map of Southeast Alaska to represent work with other churches
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- Stethoscope to represent matching gift for the support of the Front Street Clinic.
- Rainbow scarf to represent NLUC becoming a ―More Light‖ and ―Reconciling‖ congregation.
Anne thanked the council members and asked them to stand.
Phil expressed thanks to Anne who in addition to serving as Council Moderator continued with her work
with Sunday School, coordinator of families with young children, and accompanist for the choir.
Celebration of Music
Gail O’Dell led us again in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖
Elections
Kristy Germain reported on the work of the nominating committee.
Thank you to everyone who has served on committees.
There are two additions for blanks under Staff Parish Relations Committee: Jane Ginter and Maxine
Richert have agreed to serve on SPRC.
M/S/C that nominations be closed and that we cast a unanimous ballot for the slate of names.
Election of 2016 Nominating Committee
We need five members:
Nominated:
Barbara Searls
Marion Gotschall
Linda Miller
Joy Lyon
Bruce Morley
M/S/C that nominations be closed and that we cast a unanimous ballot for the slate of names.
Additional Business to Come Before the Congregation
Mary Becker stated how wonderful it is to have a pastor who is so visible in our community. We owe
Phil a lot for his community activity. She commented on the way that June Degnan and all worked so
hard in making the Haven House a success.
Judy Knight thanks the Men’s Breakfast for setting up the tables for the annual meeting. Thanks to the
middle school Sunday School class who baked muffins and set up the tables for the meeting.
Announcements
None noted.
Closing Prayer
Closed in prayer by Corey at 2:12 p.m.
Respectively Submitted,
Jane McMillan Ginter, Stated Clerk
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Northern Light United Church Special Congregational Meeting May 15, 2016
Minutes
After the required notice being given, on May 15, 2016, a special congregational meeting was held in
the sanctuary for the purpose of filling 2 elected unexpired terms, namely Lay Leader and one position
on the Committee on Property Management.
Council Moderator Anne Standerwick called the meeting to order at 12:15 pm. A quorum was present.
Representing the Nominating Committee, Joy Lyon reported that Jane Ginter had been proposed to fill
the United Methodist Lay Leader unexpired term and John Norman had been proposed to fill the
Committee on Property Management unexpired term. There were no other nominations from the floor.
A motion was made and seconded to close nominations and to cast a unanimous ballot to elect Jane and
John to these positions.
By a voice vote, Jane Ginter was elected to be Lay Leader and John Norman was elected to the
Committee on Property Management. There was no dissent.
The meeting was adjourned at 12:18 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Anne Standerwick, Council Moderator and Clerk Pro-Tem
Church Council
The Northern Light United Church’s bylaws designate the Church Council as the governing body of the
church. The twelve members of the council are elected by the church and serve three-year terms.
2016 Council Members included:
Class of 2016 Class of 2017 Class of 2018
June Degnan Laura Doogan Pat Gorman
Myra Munson Nancy Lehnhart Kelly Henriksen
Natalie Norberg Judith Morley Marianne Mills
Anne Standerwick George Partlow Freda Westman
The NLUC Council had 11 regularly scheduled meetings in 2016, with additional communication as
needed in order to address issues in a timely manner. The council is charged with protecting the mission
of the church, making wise decisions and overseeing the management of church assets.
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This report is a summary of the work of the council in 2016. With the help and advice of various church
committees including SPRC, CPM, Deacons, Native Ministries, Finance, Community Opportunities
along with the church treasurer Jim Alter and our pastor Phil Campbell, the council has worked to
advance the mission of NLUC locally and beyond.
Work continued on the Visioning Work Plan which was developed based on congregational
participation during the 2014 annual meeting. The council has regularly revisited the visioning work
plan as we continue to move forward with efforts in areas which were identified as priorities by the
congregation. Natalie Norberg has been extremely helpful in keeping the work plan up to date and
reporting on new developments in carrying out the work plan.
Highlights in Visioning Work Plan progress this year:
Being a welcoming church: council affirmed our current practice of opening the church to any and all
weddings legal in the state of Alaska and under the oversight of the pastor and the church’s building use
policies. Members of council provided hospitality during Gold Medal week.
Helping each other learn and grow: council supported the work by Teresa Campbell in revising the pre-
school and elementary school Christian education program. We appreciate the work that Teresa and the
teachers have put into this program which is enjoying success. Congregational members participated in
Stewardship training in Anchorage and have been incorporating ideas from that training into our
stewardship program.
Seeking opportunities to serve and lead: council adopted the Earth Care Project pledge this year and
appreciates the leadership of Committee on Community Opportunities in moving forward with this
project which includes many ways we can be good stewards of the earth and environment. In addition,
we continue to work toward bringing the Family Promise project into being in Juneau (churches host
and support families experiencing homelessness). Council is also exploring ways to continue supporting
Haven House Juneau in its important mission.
Sustaining a stable church: council has been working with the Finance Committee and the Investment
Committee to examine our current investment strategies and look toward socially responsible investment
options. In addition, in a more tangible way, much needed work was completed on the manse this year,
and planning continues regarding new lighting in the sanctuary.
Thanks: It has been a pleasure serving as Moderator of the council this year and as a council member
for the last 3 years. Thank you to Pastor Phil Campbell, Treasurer Jim Alter, council members, church
committee members and all of you who give of yourselves so generously to further God’s work through
Northern Light United Church.
Respectfully submitted,
Anne Standerwick, Moderator
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2014-2016 Visioning Plan Report
Goal 1: Be a welcoming church that values, honors, and learns from diversity.
Strategies/Tactics:
1.1 Identify ways to respectfully welcome and invite new people to worship & participate in
existing church programs
1.2 Invite and initiate more sharing of Tlingit language and traditions into the service and life
of NLUC. Tlingit language classes will be explored.
1.3. NLUC will continue to offer a space for fellowship and hospitality for our Southeast
church members during Gold Medal week and Celebration.
1.4 NLUC will continue to examine its programming and activities to identify whether any
practices could be more respectful or encompassing of diversity. NLUC will continue to
strive to be more visibly inclusive of the LGBTQ community
Examples of progress made:
August 2015: NLUC officially became a More Light/Reconciling congregation to make explicit
our welcome to the LGBTQ community.
For the last three years, NLUC has opened the fellowship hall during the weeks of Gold Medal
and Celebration to offer a space for fellowship and hospitality.
A hymn is sung in the Tlingit language at the beginning of every worship service.
A sign for the church entry way was created to help direct visitors to class rooms, offices, etc.
Goal #2: Help each other to learn, grow in understanding and wisdom, and deepen our
relationships with God and each other.
Strategies/Tactics:
2.1 Identify and support an Education Committee. The new EC will assess educational
needs and develop an education work/plan schedule to include Sunday school curriculum,
Bible Study, faith, theology and denominational traditions
2.2 Identify and develop a schedule for quarterly activities that increase communication
across diversity of age, culture, politics, etc.
2.3 Explore ways to integrate/infuse Stewardship throughout the year into worship services
Examples of progress made:
Adopted a lectionary based curriculum for all ages that aligns with our weekly worship
themes so that we are learning and growing together as a community of God’s people.
Church school was implemented during the worship service, taking the place of a pre-
worship service Sunday School class.
9
Goal #3: Seek opportunities to serve and lead, allowing the church and church members to grow
and be Christ in our church, community and state (especially Southeast Alaska), the United States
and the world.
Strategies/Tactics:
3.1 Create and display an inventory/summary of NLUC outreach and service opportunities,
with contact person, when and how to get involved. These could be outreach efforts or
ministries led by NLUC or supported by individuals in the congregation.
3.2 Explore and develop a concrete plan for how to support the Haven House.
3.3 Explore opportunities to partner with the Northwest Presbyterian in order to support and
mentor struggling churches in Southeast Alaska. Utilize the Native Ministries committee
for recommendations for how to best connect with or support with Southeast churches.
3.4 Ask committees and members to suggest more service opportunities (in addition to
cooking at Glory Hole and Summer Lunch program)
3.5 Address Child Hunger in Juneau:
Riverbend School Weekend Food Sack ministry
Summer Lunch Program
3.6 Family Promise Project
3.7 Earth Care Project (Supporting care of the environment as people of faith-an initiative
through our Presbyterian denomination)
Examples of progress made:
Established a Committee On Community Opportunities (COCO) that oversees our growing
initiatives on community service and social justice advocacy
March 2015: Haven House opened; NLUC has pledged ongoing financial assistance
NLUC has supported the summer lunch program and weekend food bags for elementary
students for the past two years.
NLUC has provided financial support to the Family Promise Project (temporary housing and
support for homeless families) and agreed to be one of the churches to offer a space on a
rotating basis to a family, after the program is launched.
April 2016: the Council adopted the Earth Care Pledge, this is work is ongoing
Goal #4: Sustain a stable church into the future through facility maintenance and improvement,
staffing decisions and stewardship of our resources.
Strategies/Tactics:
4.1 Draft and adopt a Statement of Responsible Investments.
4.2 Draft and adopt a plan for long-term depreciation and schedule of replacement and repair
of equipment and building.
4.3 Review and Revise NLUC By-Laws
4.4 Review, assess and produce a proposal that considers staffing needs, staffing patterns and
the need for new staff positions. Consider new paid position(s) for Church
Administrator, Treasurer, Children and Family ministries; and a stipend for a music and
worship leader.
4.5 Plan and facilitate the installation of an energy efficient heating system for the manse.
10
4.6 Draft and adopt a plan for long-term plan for storage and space issues in the church.
4.6 Create a work group that will identify, prioritize and report back to council regarding
improvements needed to the physical environment of the sanctuary and fellowship hall to
enhance the comfort of parishioners.
4.7 Address the use of technology in furthering NLUC goals, relating to the enhanced quality
of the congregation's sound/visual experience and to increase advertising and the
promotion of NLUC activities and programs.
Examples of progress made:
2015: reroofed the entire church (and raised the money for it!)
2015-2016: New windows and siding installed in the manse to replace rotting infrastructure
New TV installed in the sanctuary
11
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee presents the following nominees for the class of 2019:
Council (4 Seats)
Lillian Petershoare
Debbie Reifenstein
Nico Bus
Marion Gotschall
Deacons (3 Seats)
Kristi Germain
Karen Lipson
Kimberly Homme
Committee on Property Management (CPM)
(2 seats)
Richard Doogan
Alan Akiyama
Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) (2
seats)
KJ Metcalf
Karen Dillon
The Nominating Committee thanks the outgoing and ongoing members for their service:
Council June Degnan 2016
Anne
Standerwick
2016
Natalie Norberg 2016
Myra Munson 2016
Laura Doogan 2017
Nancy Lehnhart 2017
Judith Morley 2017
George Partlow 2017
Pat Gorman 2018
Kelly Henriksen 2018
Marriane Mills 2018
Feda Westman 2018
Deacons Marie Beierly 2016
Kate Burkhart 2016
Jean Overstreet 2016
Bob Coghill 2017
Jenny Pursell 2017
Eric Scott 2017
Susan Bus 2018
Denise Carroll 2018
Wally Marvin 2018
SPRC Joy Lyon 2016
Peggy Metcalf 2016
Su Alexander 2017
Ginny Palmer 2017
Jane Ginter 2018
Maxine Richert 2018
CPM Martha DeFreest 2016
Steve White 2016
George Reifenstein 2017
John Norman 2017
Margaret
MacKinnon
2018
Pua Maunu 2018
Respectfully submitted,
Joy Lyon, Chair, Laura Doogan, Linda Miller,
Marion Gotchall, Bruce Morley, Barbara
Searls, Kelly Henrikson, Phil Campbell
12
$-
$100,000
$200,000
$300,000
$400,000
$500,000
$600,000
2015Actual
2016Actual
2017Budget
NORTHERN LIGHT'S FOUR BUDGETS (Expenses)
2015 TO 2017
Music
Native Ministries
Capital
Operational
TREASURER’S REPORT
As of the end of 2016, Northern Light is in excellent financial condition. Our day-to-day fiscal
operations are sustainable; we are essentially debt-free; and we have substantial financial reserves.
This state of affairs exists because of the steady and generous fiscal support of the congregation. For
that I unqualifiedly say ―THANK YOU!‖ and encourage all of us to, in appreciative gratitude,
celebrate.
The numbers that are the underlying basis of
this report are attached as
a Balance Sheet Report, as of
December 31, 2016
the 2017 Budgets (as adopted by the
Church Council on December 8), and
the actual revenue and expenses, by
line item, for the various budgets for
2015 and 2016 (included as part of
the 2017-Budgets document).
Northern Light’s finances are organized
around four different budgets: Operational,
Capital, Native Ministries, and Music
Education.
Operational Budget
The Operational Budget is funded primarily by congregational contributions and covers our ―regular‖
operating expenses such as office supplies and equipment, day-to-day maintenance, utilities, staff,
Christian education, special offerings, and children’s food programs.
2016’s operational revenue and expenditures followed the same overall pattern of 2015 -- greater
revenue than budgeted and fewer expenses than budgeted, producing an overall positive cash flow for
the year.
13
$-
$100,000
$200,000
$300,000
$400,000
$500,000
$600,000
2015Actual
2016Actual
2017Budget
OPERATIONAL INCOME NLUC
2015 - 2017
Reimbursements/Other
Endowments
Building Use
DesignatedGiving
Contributions
$-
$50,000
$100,000
$150,000
$200,000
$250,000
$300,000
$350,000
$400,000
$450,000
2015Actual
2016Actual
2017Budget
OPERATIONAL EXPENSES NLUC
2015 - 2017
Hospitality,Worship,Education
DenominationalSupport &Administration
Service andSocial Concerns
Building andProperty
Staff
Unlike 2015, ―Designated Giving‖ (money
received for a specified purpose, often times a
program that exists independently from
Northern Light but which Northern Light
endorses and therefore ―passes on‖ to the
specified recipient). during 2016 was about a
third of the 2015 amount. The 2017 budget
anticipates about the same designated giving
as in 2016. However, since the congregation
is so generous when it comes to special
appeals and needs, it would not be surprising if
this number became much greater than the
budgeted amount – in which case our
designated support (see expenses (designated
support)) would also be much greater than
currently budgeted.
Total income for 2017 is budgeted at almost
6% less than what we totally received in 2016.
Since congregational giving –―Offerings and
Contributions‖—account for over ¾ of our
operational income and the total amount pledged for 2017 was less than in 2016, the budgeted
amount for Offerings and Contributions is less than in 2016.
Operational expenditures for 2017 are
budgeted at 15% more than was actually spent
in 2016. This increase is more or less equally
spread across all major spending categories.
The fact that the total expenses in the adopted
2017 budget exceed the total income by
$4,600 is balanced by the indicated use of
various reserve funds in the total amount of
$4,600.
Capital Projects
The Capital Budget covers longer-lasting
repair and construction projects such as (in
2014) the roof repair and (for 2016) manse
repair. Although in the past we have had
special fund-raising efforts for major capital
projects, this coming year we plan to fund our
repairs with money from our cash reserves.
A significant amount of repair on the manse
14
was completed in 2016. The remaining, uncompleted work is budgeted for 2017 as well as the long-
discussed sanctuary and fellowship-hall lighting. Other church-building projects are planned for
2017.
Native Ministries
The Native Ministries Budget is funded with endowment earnings from the Walter Soboleff
Endowment (passed on to Northern Light by the Alaska United Methodist Conference) and focused
on projects that reinforce and grow Tlingit culture and traditions in our congregation and throughout
Southeast Alaska.
A variety of activities identified by the Native Ministries Steering Committee will be carried out in
2017, with the possibility of additional projects added to the list later in the year.
Music Education
Our Music Education Budget supports music education for Juneau children and youth in Juneau.
This budget is funded by earnings from the Anderson Music-Education Endowment Fund. In the past
the Music Education Budget has supported programs such as the Juneau Alaska Music Matters and
the Alaska Youth Choir.
The church Council is currently reviewing proposals from interested individuals and groups for
spending Music Education money. It is likely that funds will remain available to fund additional
proposals later in the year.
JUMPP
During 2016 Northern Light agreed to serve as the fiscal agent for Juneau United Medical Providers
and Parents, LLC. JUMPP is an organization/program that provides mental health help to families
and individuals needing that assistance. As fiscal agent we receive grant money for JUMPP
programs and periodically forward funds to the program’s service providers. This is useful, from a
tax perspective, for JUMPP.
Finance and Investment Committees
As Treasurer, I am thankful for the opportunity to regularly meet with the Finance Committee and
Investment Committee. The Finance Committee has advised me and the Council on matters relating
to the Church’s finances. Its members have been John Pugh, Karen Dillon, Ginny Palmer, Martha
DeFreest, Marianne Mills, Kate Burkhart, and Phil Campbell. Northern Light’s Investment
Committee regularly meets with our financial advisers and recommends investment strategies for
Church funds to the Council. Those members are Don Gotschall and Christian Veliz.
New Treasurer
At the risk of pre-maturely announcing this: I am delighted to report that Barbara Searls has agreed to
succeed me as Northern Light’s Treasurer, starting this year. Northern Light could not have a more
competent and knowledgeable person filling the position. We are truly lucky to have her assuming
this responsibility.
I have enjoyed being Treasurer over the past few years and have felt incredibly lucky to have worked
with such a generous and caring congregation and staff. Thank you for your support and compassion
15
Although I will not be at the Annual Meeting in person, I hope to participate telephonically. If there
are questions or concerns about anything in (or not in) this report that I might be able to answer,
please contact me at once either by email at [email protected] or by phone at 808-269-4330.
- Jim Alter, Treasurer
16
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Staff Parish Relations Committee
The NLUC By-laws include the following functions for the SPRC:
● Conferring with the pastor and staff regarding their relationship with the congregation and the
priorities to pursue;
● Evaluating the pastor and ensuring staff evaluations occur, including recommending each year
whether the pastor should be retained;
● Ensuring that the pulpit is appropriately staffed each Sunday; and
● Evaluating and presenting to the Council the budget needs for staff salaries, allowances and
fringe benefits.
22
The SPRC performed all of these functions over the course of its regularly scheduled and special
meetings in 2016, with specific focus on the following efforts:
Church Staffing and Budget Issues
The SPRC:
● Regularly consulted with the Pastor regarding specific staffing issues, including working
hours and job duties.
● Reviewed the janitorial and building needs and made the decision to move to an outside
contractor for cleaning services rather than a staff position. The committee secured bids from
several contractors and worked with Council to contract with Mari’s Marine Cleaning.
● Recommended 2017 budget compensation levels for church staff, including the pastor, church
administrator, janitor, youth group leader, nursery care giver, accompanists, choir directors,
and pulpit supply.
● Worked with the pastor to ensure that the pulpit was filled in his absence.
● Reviewed our health insurance policies in light of staff needs and Affordable Care Act
requirements.
Family and Children Ministries
The SPRC:
● Conducted safe sanctuary training in the spring of 2016 and discussed, at our meetings, issues
related to our safe sanctuary policy and procedures.
● Advised the Pastor regarding support for the youth program and Melissa Engel’s family leave.
As pastor of Douglas United Methodist, Melissa has continued to serve as inter-church youth
group leader and is compensated for the additional ¼ of her job by Northern Light, with some
anticipated financial help from the other 5 congregations participating in the youth program.
Pastor’s Evaluation
● The SPRC completed the Pastor’s annual evaluation and heartily endorses the retention of
Pastor Phil Campbell.
In addition to our appreciation of Pastor Phil Campbell, the SPRC wishes to express our thanks to our
current church staff members for their service to Northern Light, including Church Administrator
Christina Maddox, Youth Director Rev. Melissa Engel, Nursery Care Giver Olga Lipson, and
Musicians J. Allan MacKinnon and Jacque Farnsworth. A very special thanks to Teresa Campbell, for
serving as a volunteer as Sunday School Coordinator, in addition to teaching middle school and high
school Sunday School in addition to all her many other contributions to NLUC. And we offer
appreciation and gratitude for the many years of service Leonard Johnson contributed as custodian for
our congregation.
The 2016 SPRC included the following members (term ending dates indicated in parentheses):
-Joy Lyon (2016), Chair -Ginny Palmer (2017)
-Susan Alexander (2017), Vice-Chair -Maxine Richert, (2018)
-Jane Ginter (2018) Secretary, AUMC Lay Delegate -Phil Campbell, Pastor (nonvoting)
-Peggy Metcalf (2016), Co-secretary
-Myra Munson (2016), Council and Presbytery Liaison
Respectfully submitted,
Joy Lyon, Chair
23
Deacons
The Mission of the Deacons is to lead a ministry of compassion, attending to
those in distress, and to encourage the congregation to be involved and
included in the loving outreach of our church.
The Role of the Deacons is to:
1. Prepare the Communion Table and invite members of the congregation to
assist in serving and sharing communion;
2. Share the care and concern of the church with congregation members in
need of comfort;
3. Share the resources of the church to people in need of emergency
assistance; and
4. Support families in hosting memorials and celebrations at Northern Light
United Church by assisting in organizing and hosting events at the church.
Activities
The Deacons prepared the Communion table and assured that servers were available at the service
each month this year. The Deacons are available to assist in making communion available to people
who cannot attend church. The Deacons also have a designee after service on Communion Sundays
for those wishing to share a private prayer.
The Deacons continued the Card Ministry, sending notes of condolence and support to congregation
members who were injured, ill, or grieving. The Deacons received significant positive feedback this
year from the card ministry. The Deacons continued hosting a celebration of birthdays, anniversaries,
and other happy moments with cake on the second Sunday of the month. Several Deacons went above
and beyond arranging for custom cakes and recruiting sponsors for cakes during special
anniversaries. The Deacons assisted in hosting memorial services at Northern Light United Church.
The Deacons share the financial gifts of Northern Light United Church through a community
emergency assistance program, which is available to all people without consideration for religious
affiliation (or any other characteristic other than need). People in need of immediate financial
assistance for rent, fuel oil, electricity, medical travel, or infant care needs can request help for the
Deacons. The church administrator coordinates the requests, which are considered by the entire
committee as quickly as possible. The Deacons drafted and approved an updated form to help ensure
that requests are appropriate and match the by-laws established for the Deacons fund. The most
common requests in 2016 were fuel oil and electricity, followed by rent.
Another part of this community assistance is the Deacons’ support for the Love, Inc. Bucket Ministry.
Bruce Morley prepares the 5-gallon buckets of cleaning supplies that Love, Inc. provides to needy
families moving into new homes. This year, Bruce delivered 47 buckets. Bruce mentioned ―I am
Deacons
Marie Beierly
Kate Burkhart
(Treasurer)
Susan Bus (Scribe/Secretary)
Denise Carroll
Bob Coghill
Wally Marvin
Jean Overstreet
Jenny Pursell
Eric Scott
(Chair)
Judy Morley Council Liaison
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always surprised how grateful folks are when they receive a bucket. It makes the delivery a gift to
me‖. Each bucket contained: 4 sponges, 4 micro rags, 1 gallon of vinegar, spray bottles, 1 box of
borax, 1 roll of kitchen garbage bags, 1 broom, 1 mop, 1 dust pan, dish soap, 1 large jug of laundry
soap, and a sheet of eco-friendly cleaning recipes.
Financial Report
The Deacons received $10,071.17 in contributions, including $3,486.96 in carryover from 2015 and a
$2,000.00 allotment from the Church Council (revenue). The Deacons shared those resources through
the emergency assistance program and the Love, Inc. Bucket Ministry.
Deacons’ 2016 Treasurer's Report
Beginning Balance $3,486.96
Income
NLUC $4,656.56
Gifts $1,927.65
Expenditures
Utilities $1,468.21
Rent $2,083.00
Love Inc Bucket Ministry $2,428.27
Gas/Transportation $495.00
Medical $80.00
Other $230.00
Total Income $7,414.61
Total Expenditures $6,784.48
Special project
The Deacons submitted a proposal to the Church Council to support more permanent name tags for
2017. The decision was made to purchase lanyards with plastic holders where printed or written
names could be displayed. This project should help to initiate conversation between those who may
not be as quick to remember names, but would still like to welcome all church members. The tags
should arrive in January 2017.
Meeting Schedule
The Deacons meet after worship on the last Sunday of each month. Everyone is welcome to
participate. Occasionally, the Deacons alter the schedule for holidays.
- Eric Scott, Chair; Kate Burkhart, Treasurer
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Committee on Property Management (CPM)
Committee Members: Martha DeFreest (Chair), Margaret MacKinnon (Secretary), Steve White,
George Reifenstein, John Norman (replaced Brian VanderNaald, 2016), Pua Maunu, Pat Gorman
(Council Representative), and Phil Campbell (Pastor).
Church lighting project, status: During 2016, Pat Gorman prepared contract drawings and researched
light fixtures and costs for new pendant style fixtures and graze fixtures (stage). A contractor has not
yet been selected, but work is anticipated to begin in spring 2017.
Earth Care Status for Northern Light United Church: Martha DeFreest and George Reifenstein
looked in to the Earthcare application with Teresa Campbell in the fall of 2016, including a church
walk-through for estimating existing energy-efficient light fixtures and bulbs. NLUC appears to
qualify. Next steps include getting an energy audit completed, which will become the foundation for
capital improvement projects to be coordinated by CPM.
Redesign of the Chancel (Front of Sanctuary) - status: CPM held three meetings in 2016 regarding
redesigning the chancel area: one with Gerald Gotschall who presented concept CAD drawings, one
with Nancy Lehnhart who reviewed with CPM a concept sketch from 2015, and one with Mike
Barnhill regarding Audio/Visual needs during a redesign. Only minimal changes to the existing
layout are desired at this time for improved functionality of the space, such as movable lecterns and
railings.
Elevator improvements - status: Research to replace the elevator with a lift was conducted during
2016 but not pursued. There are structural limitations to the ―footprint‖ for the elevator, operational
concerns, and a discussion of benefits that CPM feels does not warrant the costs.
CPM coordinated the 2016 February church interior clean-up day, completed roof gutter work on the
church exterior, provided lawn mowing in the playground area, and approved yard work contracted
labor and materials. The Manse received considerable repairs to the north side of the building for rot
and ant damage, and completed a number of miscellaneous back-logged repairs to the manse
property. Follow-up work for the manse includes minimal painting and caulking when weather
conditions are more favorable.
Priority projects for 2017:
Complete the church lighting project
Complete energy audits for both the church building and the manse
Replace church entryway exterior door
Replace two triangular entryway windows
Complete the annual elevator inspection; address repair items as needed
Repair church north basement wall
Complete Manse exterior painting - entire building
- inspect the gutters and include any necessary repair during the painting project
Complete Manse driveway resurfacing
- include drainage, retaining wall, and tying in the fence during this project
At the close of the 2016 year, Martha DeFreest and Steve White rotate off CPM.
- Martha DeFreest
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Committee of Community Opportunities 2016 Accomplishments and Vision for 2017
Working for Justice to Create a More Peaceful Community and World
The Committee of Community Opportunities (COCO), which is recognized by Council as an
established NLUC program has been active and engaged in a number of justice, peace issues and
actions in 2016 and actively planning a 2017 program.
Following are the highlights of 2016:
Family Promise - A national interfaith hospitality network program to better serve Juneau's
families without homes. NLUC is a hosting church and will provide housing for up to 14
family members from 7pm to 7am for two two-week segments during the summer. In the
morning families will be transported to a day center which has computers, showers, laundry
facilities and childcare services. From there adults travel to job interviews, job services or go
to work; children will attend school or remain in daycare.
Non-hosting support churches will provide some of the volunteers needed. Training will be
provided for volunteers and an on-call Family Promise staff person will be available at all
times.
Fundraising events have been successful and there are more organizations within the
community that are interested in partnering with Family Promise. This program has been very
successful in other communities; hosts/hostesses and guests have so much to learn from each
other.
Glory Hole - soup kitchen and temporary housing. NLUC continues an on-going support
program of financial assistance, purchasing/preparing/serving two meals a month, providing
warm weather clothes, kitchen equipment and Pastor Phil provides a role of on-call pastoral
support.
The GH continues to struggle with financial support, ending CY 2016 some $30,000 short.
This is on our list of priorities for 2017.
Summer Food Program - a five day a week hot lunch meal (FDA food program) for the
Geneva Woods housing complex for poverty level children up to 18 years old. NLUC provide
the food (some financial assistance from FDA), prepares in our kitchen, delivers and serves a
hot lunch and supervises learning and skill games to supplement the nutritional needs.
School weekend food program breakfasts, lunches and snack - purchase, store, package
Saturday and Sunday breakfast, lunch and snack foods for over 80 River
Bend students.
Non-Violent (NVC) Communication book study – Speak Peace – In A World of Conflict, by
Marshall Rosenberg. An effort to better equip folks with the NVC philosophy and techniques
of engaging in conversations within our faith community and wider community on
controversial issues.
Haven House – Transitional housing for recently released felon inmates is a key component
of successful community re-integration. The Haven house is a faith-based house for women
that has struggled to be accepted in a neighborhood and become sustainable. COCO has put a
priority on this vital community effort to help assure it is successful. We have generated some
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personal donations to help cover on-going expenses and are looking for ways to explore with
Haven’s board of directors strategies for sustainability.
Earth Care Congregation - Being certified as a greener church. A process through the
Presbyterian USA to survey how energy efficient and how our program and uses are
environmentally supportive of a healthy world. The Council has agreed to pursue the self-
evaluation in 2016 and from that survey we will be able to discuss methods and timing for us
to proceed towards certification.
Sponsoring Parents Support Group – A monthly parents group meets at NLUC and we
provide space, child-care and a meal. This past year a number of family support programs
have been dropped by a Juneau NGO and our sponsorship was an effort to be certain this
critical support for families remained available.
Collaboration with Juneau People for Peace and Justice (JPPJ) - JPPJ meets weekly at
NLUC and we as a church generally and COCO specifically collaborates on many educational
and outreach actions. Of note:
o Muslim Exchange Students - Three students sponsored by the State Department are
placed with host families and enrolled in high school for a 10 month Juneau
experience. JPPJ coordinates and supports these amazing Muslim ambassadors as we
all learn to better understand and value their culture and gifts and they ours.
A NLUC family is serving as a host family for one of the exchange students.
o Never Again – A public gathering to remember the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and
Nagasaki and a call for total nuclear disarmament.
o Emanuel Jal – Internationally known hip-hop and rap peace activist was sponsored
(by a number of local organizations, including NLUC) for presentations in Juneau high
schools and a public performance. Emanuel was enthusiastically received by students
and his story of being a ―child soldier‖ and his struggles to survive and be successful
resonated with youth. There are follow-up efforts to build on Emanuele’s visit.
Programs we participate in and hope to emphasis in 2016 as energy allows, in addition to our
ongoing involvements:
Camp Champ - A four day summer camp for youth at risk and/or with incarcerated parents.
FASD Camp – A three day intense FASD training and week-long camp.
Prison re-entry programs.
Haven House sustainability.
Glory Hole fund raising.
Housing First – to be opened spring/summer 2017.
Promoting Juneau Refuge City status.
Promoting non-violent communication and demonstrations on peace and justice issues.
- KJ Metcalf and Melody Millard
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Native Ministries Committee
Mission Statement. The mission statement of the committee is:
―Celebrating and sharing the ministry, healing, unity, diversity, music, and languages of Alaska’s
First People.‖
Members. The committee members include Barbara Searls, Chair, Pattie Adkisson, Freda Westman,
KJ Metcalf, Jane Ginter (recording secretary), June Degnan, Lillian Austin, Clay Antioquia and
Pastor Phil Campbell. Meetings are open and other church members are welcome to attend meetings.
Tlingit Gospel Singers. NMC continues to support the ministry of the Tlingit Gospel Singers (TGS).
The congregation continues to sing "This is the Day" in Tlingit as part of the service (a
recommendation from the visioning of NLUC) and part of the mission of NMC.
The Tlingit Gospel Singers sing at community events and for the second year sang at the Glory Hole
annual memorial service officiated by Pastor Phil. TGS also sang at a Juneau Cooperative Church
Council Lenten Lunch. At the lunch, Pastor Phil spoke about the closing of the Memorial Church and
the institutional racism of the Presbyterian denomination that led to the closing. He apologized for
what happened and the Native Ministries Chair offered a response as is customary within the Tlingit
tradition. From this has grown a desire from Native Ministries for more history on what occurred.
TGS led Christmas Carols in Tlingit at the December 22 Cooperative Church Council Advent
Luncheon hosted by our church. As community interest in the Tlingit language expands, there will
be more opportunities for TGS to extend their influence beyond our current congregation.
Yakutat Presbyterian Church. We continue to provide support and encouragement for Yakutat
Presbyterian Church. In the summer of 2016 the Yakutat church was served by a student pastor from
Austin Presbyterian Seminary. Pastor Phil was the student’s site supervisor, communicating with her
regularly by phone. We will look for additional ways to partner with the Yakutat church in 2017.
In addition, NMC, working with the Yakutat church paid travel expenses for Rev. Paul Beran to
travel to Yakutat and preach two Sundays in 2016.
Methodist Women’s Conference. NMC paid travel expenses for June Degnan to attend the
Methodist Women’s Conference held in Wasilla, Alaska.
NMC Finance Report. NMC proposed a $50,000 budget to NLUC Council which was approved.
This included $25,000 for grants and $25,000 for NLUC programs.
The NMC received $17,424 from the Methodist Missionary Conference and expenses of $1,105 were
incurred in 2016.
The NMC ended 2016 with approximately $250,000.
Community Outreach. NMC explored options for bringing outside speakers to Juneau in 2016.
Although it did not happen in 2016, NMC is working on this for 2017.
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Church Building Usage. NLUC continues to open the church for meetings of Glacier Valley
ANS/ANB Camp 70. ANS Camp 2 and Douglas Indian Association have been holding meetings at
the church as well.
2017. NMC plans to meet and review the mission and goals of the committee, elect a chair and have
regularly scheduled meetings throughout the year.
Respectfully submitted,
Barbara Searls, Chair
Library Committee
The purpose of the church library is to be a valuable resource for our community, with books and
other materials that address faith, hope, and issues of contemporary life. It is meant to be a
welcoming place for members and community to wait for family/friends after church or meetings at
NLUC. Small groups also take advantage of this room.
The library committee provides the children’s books, crayons and coloring papers that are available in
baskets right outside the doors into the sanctuary for children to use during worship. I am happy to
report noticing children and youth enjoying these items throughout the week. The baskets are there
because we want the children to know that we think about them and they are an important part of our
community.
Thanks to those of you who have donated books to the library this year. Some books are also
purchased from Friends of the library and donated to the library. The Adult Sunday school and
Lenten study books are also available in the library. No need to check the books out. Just take them
and return when done.
If you are interested in helping care for our library please let Pastor Phil, Andi Story and/or Lorna
Kent know.
- Andi Story
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Community of Christian Women
In celebration of the success of the annual holiday bazaar held the previous November, the
Community of Christian Women convened a lively meeting in February to discuss various projects
that support women and children that could receive funding from bazaar proceeds. The women
agreed to spend $10,000 during 2016 with $8,000 allocated at the meeting, and designation of the
remaining $2,000 to be determined during the remainder of the year. Those programs receiving
funding during the February meeting are as follows:
Days for Girls
PET machine for a child
Youth mission trip to Costa Rica
Alaska Child and Family
Camp Champ
No More Malaria nets
Presbyterian Women Mission projects
United Methodist Women mission projects
In April we benefitted from presentations from June Degnan, founding President and Chair of the
board of Haven House, as well as from Mandy Cole, Deputy Director of AWARE. Ms. Degnan spoke
about the status of Haven House, detailing the months-long struggle to receive approval to operate by
the City and Borough of Juneau and the impact of the program on women released from
incarceration. Ms. Cole provided information about their new housing facility, called Kassei, for
women recovering from abusive home situations. Both of these groups have received donations from
CCW.
June Degnan and Melody Millard represented CCW at the Gathering of Presbyterian Women in
Wasilla in June. Along with participants from all areas of the Synod of Alaska Northwest, they
visited Presbyterian mission projects in the area including My House, Family Promise and Knik
House. CCW was pleased to help fund the trip north and provided Fred Meyer gift cards for these
mission homes.
In October, Marion Gotschall represented CCW at the annual gathering of United Methodist Women
in Anchorage. CCW provided a donation to support UMW programs
CCW ended the year with another successful Annual Holiday Bazaar in November. Many women,
and men, came together to produce product to sell, sorted and priced attic treasures and prepared
soup, bread and pie for lunch. It was a good year.
- Carol Barril
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Juneau Youth Ministry Cooperative
The Cooperative Youth Group, the young people of six congregations and the community, has been
hard at work this year, growing their hearts to serve the community and the world and growing into
their space they call ―home.‖ The youth room at Northern Light was envisioned by the young people,
and with a little help it now bears a big tree on the wall with their handprints, a hanging bookshelf,
and a community board. We still hope to get some more furniture and continue to make the space our
own but we are well on our way!
Two endeavors this year, in particular, have built relationships across boundaries and grown our
hearts for service: (1) the 2016 summer international mission to Strong Missions in Costa Rica, and
(2) the Interfaith Day of Service. (1) 7 youth, 1 junior counselor, and 2 adults traveled to Costa Rica
to serve with the people. We helped to build up the foundation of the Strong Missions Community
Center that will offer feeding programs, activities for children, and educational opportunities that will
help move against the systemic injustices that create poverty. We also served lunch to a community in
a very poor area and provided Vacation Bible School with three groups of children. Please see the
video made available at the church for more details on our team’s experience! (2) The Interfaith Day
of Service, on Alaska Day 2016, was initiated between our youth group and the Junior Spiritual
Empowerment Program that includes young people who identify as Baha’i , spiritual, and otherwise.
12 youth and over 6 adults participated in helping at Helping Hands, Feeding Juneau’s Future, and
AWARE. Temple Sukkat Shalom was invited but, due to the timing during their High Holy Days,
was unable to participate. They asked that they be invited to other interfaith events in the future.
From a director’s perspective, I am trying to build up a core of volunteers for Sunday gatherings, as
well as other activities. These volunteers are expected to lead parts of the gatherings and build
relationships of trust with the young people. I have also been having the churches participate in the
cooperative through contributions, whether that be through meals, finances, or otherwise. Future
goals include continuing to build the core of volunteers/adult sponsors and to dream about and put
into action ways that churches can feel involved in the cooperative effort for youth ministry.
- Melissa Engel
P.S. Thanks go to April Rezendes and Bob Coghill for being adult helpers for the youth group. They
have been assisting Melissa and have now stepped in to lead the group while Melissa is on maternity
leave.
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Pastor’s Report
The ministry of Northern Light United Church continues to be a source of illumination for its
members and for the Juneau community. We are a gathering place not only for our members but for
an ever expanding cross section of the city and borough. There is little that happens in Juneau with
regard to serving those in need, social justice advocacy, interfaith cooperation, fostering a welcoming
atmosphere, and supporting community betterment that does not involve our church. I am grateful to
have served among you for over six years.
For the past three years, our Church Council has overseen and implemented our ministry goals
(embracing diversity, serving the community and beyond, stewarding our resources, and promoting
learning, worship, fellowship, and growth) that were adopted in 2014. At this year’s annual meeting,
the congregation will have the opportunity to update and extend our work in these four areas. The
Council’s regular review of our goals has proven to be a good process that serves as an effective way
to turn our intentions into action, and I am glad we are continuing it. I am grateful for the oversight
Natalie Norberg has provided for the Council’s efforts.
These four areas are also a helpful way for me to reflect on our year together.
Embracing Diversity.
- As an extension of our More Light/Reconciling identity, the Church Council clarified our
congregational commitment to offer all rites and services of the church without regard to sexual
orientation. In particular, this means that I have the Council’s support for officiating at same gender
as well as heterosexual weddings, and that the sanctuary is available as a venue for all weddings.
- I spoke at a Borough Assembly meeting in support of the CBJ Equal Rights Ordinance.
- I was a speaker at the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil at the University of Alaska Southeast
(UAS).
- I presented my research on the closing of Memorial Church and the institutional racism of the
Presbyterian Church at a Cooperative Church Council Lenten Lunch.
- I led a workshop on white racial socialization at the UAS Power and Privilege Symposium.
- I facilitated the discussion after one of the performances of Wrestling Jerusalem, a one person play
about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- I wrote a ―My Turn‖ column for the Juneau Empire regarding national anthem protests and racial
justice.
Serving the Community and Beyond
Our church building continues to be well used for a wide array of community groups and events
including Mudrooms, Concerts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, 12 Step groups, Interfaith meetings and
services, ANS meetings, Family Promise and Haven House board meetings, Reentry Coalition
strategy sessions, Juneau People for Peace and Justice, Climate Action meetings, the Flats
Neighborhood Association, and much more. We continue to cook and serve summer lunch for
children, bag weekend food for elementary students during the school year, and cook twice a month
at the Glory Hole year round. Our Households with Children group filled ten five gallon bucket with
cleaning supplies that were shipped to flood ravaged areas down South.
33
This year, I concluded a three year term on the AWARE board. I continue to participate on the
steering committee of the Juneau Violence Prevention Coalition, and I have begun involvement with
the Male Engagement subcommittee. As a part of the prevention efforts, this fall I helped coach the I
toowú klatseen/Boys Run program at Mendenhall River Community School, and I have conducted
interviews with men about male involvement in domestic violence and sexual assault prevention.
I continue to participate in the Juneau Interfaith Council, I have supported the formation of the Juneau
affiliate of the climate change group, Interfaith Power and Light, I served on a Northwest Coast
Presbytery task force to develop new criteria for covenant mission partnerships, I am member of the
Nominating Committee and the Professional Ministries Unit of the Alaska United Methodist
Conference, and I was the field supervisor for an Austin Seminary student who pastored the Yakutat
Presbyterian Church this summer.
Stewarding Our Resources
In February, John Pugh and I attended an Alaska United Methodist sponsored stewardship training
that informed this year’s ―Celebrating Generosity‖ approach to our successful stewardship drive. Our
Finance Committee oversaw the effort, I wrote some of the interpretive materials, and John, June
Degnan, and Ginny Palmer spoke about generosity during November worship services. Financial
support for the core budget and special appeals remain exemplary, and many give freely of their time
and skill to further our church’s ministry. Thanks to all who so generously support our church!
Staff Parish Relations and Church Council continue to explore staffing needs for the church, and our
property committee continues to provide needed upkeep and improvement for our facilities. A change
that was made this fall that is going well is a move to contract with a custodial service for the
cleaning of building.
Fostering learning, worship, fellowship, and growth
Last spring’s Lenten study of Brian McLaren’s book, A New Kind of Christianity, gave participants
helpful, more progressive language for expressing their faith.
This fall we began using a lectionary based curriculum, Feasting on the Word, that ties our education
ministry together with our worship. It is being used by children and youth, and this spring, the adult
Bible class will also begin using the curriculum. The time of children’s education has shifted to the
latter portion of the worship hour – we worship together through the children’s time, and then
children go to their classes. This appears to be a well-received change.
Worship and special services are central to our church’s mission. I am grateful for the worship
leadership of many who sing, play, read, greet, usher, speak, share, and serve communion!
Participation remains strong but attendance has dipped to a weekly average of 91 worshippers. I have
been intentional in communicating with those whose attendance patterns have changed, and I have
learned of ongoing support and no disaffection from the church.
Regarding special services, I officiated at four weddings: Valerie Ni hEideain and Chuck Jenkins;
Yvonne Grate and Joelene Goldman; Rebekah Howard and Alex Coronel; Rachel Searls and
Jonathan Jeans. I baptized three brothers: Jake, Leo, and Daniel Brown. I officiated at memorial
services for five persons, Mark Canul, John Borbridge, Linda Borbridge, Kimberly Williams, and
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Gary Eddy. We give thanks for their lives, and also the life of church member Alfredo McKinley, and
we remember their families in prayer.
Our time of fellowship includes refreshments after worship during the school year, breakfast after
worship in the summer, a neighborhood cookout at the beginning of summer, and a picnic at Sandy
Beach near summer’s end. Thank you to all who cook, serve, and provide refreshment – you
strengthen the bonds of our community!
We began the year with 200 members and end with 202, in addition to many other friends of the
church – all of you enrich our common life! We lost Alfredo McKinley and Jon Borbridge to death,
and Rachel Sanders transferred to a church in North Carolina. Michele Thompson, Lori Posey,
Martha Mallot, Andrea Brown, and Matthew Nakamura joined in 2016.
I am grateful for all who serve our church and make ministry possible. I offer deep appreciation for
our staff: Christina Maddox who has been our Church Administrator for nine years, Melissa Engel
who has lead our youth group for four, J. Allan MacKinnon and Jacque Farnsworth our keyboard
musicians, and Olga Lipson our nursery attendant. I also thank Leonard Johnson whose eight years as
church custodian concluded as we shifted to a custodial service for church cleaning. I am also grateful
for the lay leadership, elected and otherwise, that guides our ministry with dedication and skill. The
Nominating Committee report lists elected leaders whose terms are concluding as well as those
whose service continues and begins. In particular, I thank Anne Standerwick for two years as church
moderator, and Jim Alter for 10 years as church treasurer. Gunalchéesh!
- Phil Campbell