MINUTES - November VESTRY MEETING
St. Peter’s Church - November 5, 2007
Fr George Young opened the meeting at 6pm. Present: The Rev. Kimberly Still, Neil Blalock, Ed Grissom, Trey Warren, Norma Norris, Ben Stephens, Cheryl Smith, Francis Flood, Cathy Kaltenbach, Early McCall, Neil Frink. Absent: Mary Lynn Torchia and David Lott. Also present: all newly selected members (seated Jan, ‘08): Dolores Lord, Lena Watson, Jon Lasserre, Asa Gillette and Bob White.
NEXT MEETING: Dec 3, 2007 @ 6 pm (a 1-hour meeting followed by Advent Observances at the Blalock’s - 101 N 15th St.)
Treasurer’s Report:
Jim Carpenter provided an overview of our current financial condition and introduction of the 2008 Budget. Year-to-date through Oct 31 and incorporating the recommendations adopted at the Sept meeting, our total revenue is below budget by approx $7,000 offset by near equal amounts budgeted but as yet not spent. Compared to last year, our revenue for 10 months is ahead by nearly $50,000 but our expenses (as discussed previously) are greater as well. On balance and assuming things continue as expected, we should end the year close to break-even.
The preliminary ‘08 budget does not reflect significant deviations from the current year: Jim has assumed operating revenues rise by 2% from the ‘07 budget (to $655,000) and that we are able to maintain tight control over operating expenses. Concerns have been expressed about the potential rise in utility costs which should be in part mitigated by efficiency-raising expeditures being made from the Giving Campaign. We are thus projecting a near breakeven year from a cash flow standpoint next year, but as always the budget should be regarded as “work-in-progress”.
Jim confirmed that most of the “Tier 1″ Renovation/Restoration projects are either well along or near completion; and are near or under budget. Of note: the parlor renovation (slightly over budget); cemetery repairs/Angel of Hope garden; parish hall acoustics; and reducing the BUB loan.
Jim will be away from mid-Dec until after the 1st of the year; inquiries about any of the information presented should be directed to him accordingly.
Vestry “Thank You’s”:
1) Dolores Lord, chairperson of the Parlor Renovation Committee; Carl Jones and Johnell Preliou for their craftsmanship and dedication; and ALL who have played a part in the extraordinary remake of our Parlor (on time and slightly over- budget), now a showpiece of the Parish Hall complex.
2) Bob White, for similar skill and dedication in refinishing the Altar rails in the Church.
3) Bill Hayes, project manager and those who assisted with the accoustical ceiling upgrade of the Parish Hall.
4) Hoyt Bonynge and Ed Grissom, for their dedicated efforts to provide a happy home for our Godly play items.
5) Megan Burns and Tim, for their enthusiastic contribution to our Spirit of Creation curriculum.
6) Kristina Smith, Brian Moody, Rich Smith & The Rector, for making Halloween ‘07 something no ghoul could forget.
7) The Altar Guild - and those who participate in the preparation for and take-down of items that make our monthly Celtic service so special. These are all dedicated folk that work with loving hands and great energy to make worship at St. Peter’s blessed and memorable and glorious.
8) Mary Lynn Torchia and Kristina Smith for their tireless efforts to make our Spirit of Creation (Christian formation) series so captivating and inspiring.
Minutes of the October 15 meeting were approved without exception.
Brian Moody, Youth Director:
Brian reviewed the impressive range of groups and activities he works with and coordinates. To say that he is “fully engaged” would be an understatement. Not only do his various activities touch as many as 50 of our Parish young people, but many also welcome and attract friends from other parishes and from other faiths. Thus in many ways, EYC is for the young people of our parish precisely what the Church is for their adult parents: Christian formation/education; outreach and mission; fellowship and hospitality; thanksgiving and recognition of God’s bounty in our lives.
Brian mentioned several individuals who have provided indispensable assistance with their interest and participation and leadership: Bert Way and John Spink, Thomas Morrison and John Dickson to name but a few.
In response to the question of what he most needs to further the work he is doing in this ministry, Brian did not hesitate to say - a Parish bus.
Rector’s Report:
0 Music Program: Discussions with the candidate mentioned last month continue.
0 Trustees of St. Peter’s Foundation - Jim Carpenter, Pam Brown, Tom Glenn, John Train, and Fr. George - held its first meeting Oct 29.
0 The Parish Annual Meeting will be Wednesday Jan 30 (dinner will be half the normal cost). Retiring Vestry will be acknowledged and new Vestry will be commissioned. All are urged to attend.
0 The initial round of Vestry Initiative assignments and Pente Group discussions is now underway. A new initiative this year suggests St. Peter’s develop a program of “radical hospitality”; Fr George referred to the current issue of Vestry Papers entitled “Christian Hospitality” as recommended reading. Copies are available from the undersigned.
0 Reminders: December 9, Kimberly Still’s ordination, St. John’s Cathedral, 5pm; Jan 11 & 12, 2008, Staff & Vestry Retreat, Camp Weed.
Assistant Rector’s Report:
Kimberly is focusing at the moment on pastoral calls and continuing to get to know as many in the Parish as possible.
Senior Warden: No report
Junior Warden: Ed reviewed the status of the Parlor restoration, completed now except for the drapes. All should check this out!
Repairs to the exterior of the Church (including the bell tower and cross) are nearing completion
Vestry Initiatives:
Neil Frink (Diversity) reported continued positive feedback about the Study Circles, from St Peter’s and from the community. These involved with this effort hope to attract broader participation in the next offering.
Ben Stephens (Bus Committee): There is growing concensus that acquiring a bus sooner than currently scheduled would be beneficial to a number of parish groups who can use it (EYC, Founders etc). A recommendation will be made at the Dec meeting
There being no Other Business, Fr George gave a Closing Prayer and the meeting adjourned at 8:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
John C. Train, Clerk
