June 14, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Gail Anderson; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Sandy Demarinis; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan; Dan Stomberg; Rev. Marsue Harris
Vestry Members absent: Scott Avedisian; Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill; Linda Deming
Guests: Bill Plumb
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Opening Prayer – Rev. Marsue Harris
Minutes: The minutes from the May vestry meeting were approved as corrected.
Correspondence: None
Senior Warden’s report:
Stewardship: Stephan reported that pledges have exceeded the $85,000 budget as of tonight’s meeting. He also reported that a small number of parishioners are using envelopes but have not filled out a pledge card. He will be contacting them to get their pledge cards.
Further stewardship report and concerns: We need to appoint a stewardship chair who can be put in place before the end of June. See Stephan with suggestions for this position.
Junior Warden’s report:
The new computer system is installed and running most of the church’s applications. I’m planning to resolve the remaining exceptions so we can decommission the older machine.
The sewage spill in the parish hall has been cleaned up and the parish hall has tested negative for contamination.
The Happy Hollow licensure exercise has given us a few items to resolve. The fire marshal cited us for missing electrical box covers and chained extension cables, both issues will be resolved soon. The new regulations require lead safety certification of our water supply and surfaces, both inside the building and outside where the children travel and in the playground. I’m hoping for passing levels on the inside surfaces following Nick DeMarinis’s Eagle Scout project a couple of years ago. But even if our soil tests come up in the safe range, the department of health requires that there be no flaking paint on any of the surfaces of the building because flakes of paint might contaminate walkways or playgrounds. This will require some effort over the summer because it affects our doors, door frames, exposed wooden window frames, railings, grates, painted windows and steel window headers on all of the windows of the education wing.
I toured the buildings with Peter Borgemeister, the architect doing the survey we approved at our last meeting. He is in the process of preparing a report, but there are some maintenance items that he cited as high priority this summer and fall. The storage room roof and the roof over the education wing rear entrance and bathrooms need replacement. He also pointed out the railings and wooden frames around the church. The front steps are porous and the top layer of cement is breaking away as water seeps in, freezes and thaws. The handicap access ramp, deck, and stairs need to be sealed. Peter’s full report will identify maintenance and restoration projects, assign them rough costs, and put them in a sequence for the next several years.
Following up on a parishioner’s suggestion I reinstalled the American flag at the front of the church.
We have, in addition to the work items noted above, several maintenance items that need attention this summer, and which are included on the list of projects for the summer.
Bill also reports that he will put a list of high priority items in the bulletin to ask for volunteer help.
Treasurer’s report:
Bill Caldwell went over the treasurer’s report with the vestry.
Of note: Grocery cards accounted for $690 of the $3,090 collected on the fundraising line.
Repair and maintenance is at $3,002 (budget is $3,000); this is primarily due to clean up from the flood in March as well as the expenses to have the architect’s survey done.
Office equipment expenses came to $722 for service calls. One of these service calls was because a toner cartridge was not put back properly and it broke. It was suggested that we limit the number of people who have access to the copy machine.
Interim Rector’s report: Marsue reported that the ecumenical service on Gaspee parade day was successful. Plans for the Christmas in Pawtuxet should begin early so it can be as successful. Marsue also reported that - average attendance remains steady; - the hymn request basket has been filled with requests; - thank-yous will be sent to parishioners who have pledged; - thank you also to Gail Anderson for her help preparing for the recent baptism; - Marsue has been attending interim consultant meetings as well as monthly meetings with other interim clergy from Cranston churches; these meetings have been fruitful. Marsue suggested that the vestry perform a mutual ministry review with her in the Fall as a practice for when we acquire permanent clergy. Marsue will be on retreat the weekend of June 20; Fred Holst will lead morning prayer at the 8:00 service and the 9:30 service will be lead by Gail Wheelock.
New business:
The pancake breakfast brought in $400. It was slow at first, but got busy after the ecumenical service.
Nancy Dorsey has samples of surveys that can be sent to parishioners to get people involved in ministries.
Godly play celebration went well.
Wednesday night “simple suppers” have started up again. This may be a monthly event---possibly pot lucks.
We are still looking for a leader for the 7-Up age group. There is a meeting with Marianne Kolakowski on June 29 regarding J2A and Rite 13 programs.
Memorials: Memorials need to be recorded thoroughly and accurately for all memorial gifts, recording the person who gave the gift and what the intention is.
The 100th anniversary of the building was discussed. October 17 is the tentative date for the celebration. Volunteers for the committee include: Bill Plumb, Donna and Scott Manchester, and Linda Deming.
Self study: Discussion took place; Bill Baddeley and Vickie Ancona are interested in working on this. Outside resources include Betsy Fornal and a trainee consultant from the diocese.
Old business: Finance committee made up of the wardens, treasurers, and the rector. We need a parish member to join this committee; recommendations welcome.
The next regular vestry meeting will be July 12 at 7:00 in the Bay Room. The August vestry meeting will take place at Stephan Sloan’s house on Monday, August 16.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:28 PM.
Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting
Trinity Church, Pawtuxet
Worshipping
Welcoming
Working
To Bring Joy to God
May 10, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Gail Anderson; Scott Avedisian; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Sandy Demarinis; Linda Deming; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan; Rev. Marsue Harris
Vestry Members absent: Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill; Dan Stomberg;
Guests: Bill Plumb
The meeting was called to order at 7:02 PM.
Opening Prayer – Vickie Ancona Dear Lord, We are thankful for your presence in our lives. Guide our parish family and this vestry through the process of change and renewal as we seek a new priest. Help us to see beyond our doubts and fears, to listen with our hearts, and to speak with a kind spirit. In your name we pray. Amen
Minutes: Approved as corrected.
Correspondence: None
Senior Warden’s report: Stewardship: Stephan reported that the current pledges come to around $80,000 compared to the budget of $85,000. There are some parishioners who have not returned their pledge cards. Stephan asked for recommendations for a stewardship campaign leader who can put together a committee and start planning for the next campaign. A suggestion was made to have parishioners speak about “what Trinity means to me” and why they pledge to Trinity. Another suggestion was to have parishioners write a paragraph for the newsletter. Finance Committee: Stephan asked for recommendations for people who could serve on the finance committee. The mid-year finance committee report should touch on the highlights of our current finances; it was recommended that we have a three-pronged approach: give a brief overview after the Sunday service, a more detailed report at a separate meeting, and in a letter sent to parishioners. Information on current finances compared to finances we would expect if we had a full-time priest should be included in the report. Bishop Wolf Meeting (4/20/2010): Stephan had a productive lunch with Bishop Wolf; she is supportive of our efforts to work through the process of finding a new priest.
Junior Warden’s report: Bill reported that the office computer needs to be replaced. The vestry voted to approve expenditures up to $1,000 for hardware and software upgrades. Bill also proposed hiring an architect to survey the maintenance needs of the building. The vestry approved the motion to hire.
Treasurer’s report: Bill Caldwell went over the April statements with the vestry.
Interim Rector’s report: Marsue reported that she feels generally positive about the “spirit” of Trinity. She would like to have broad participation in the ministries of the church. She also reported that there are more baptisms in the next few weeks.
Ministry Reports: Godly Play: Godly Play classes will end on June 6 with an awards ceremony. FUNdraising: Linda reported that the progressive dinner was a big success. The initial estimate of proceeds is $640. Part of what made this a financial success is that all the food was donated by the host or cook. The Gaspee Day ecumenical service will take place on June 12 with a pancake breakfast that day. Youth groups: Nancy reported that Marianne Kolakowski has offered to speak about the diocesan J2A program. We are looking for leaders for the youth groups.
New business: Ministry report: Nancy and Sandy reported on the sign-up for ministries. Among the comments: - The leadership of ministries is fairly stable with a few openings - There will be a mailing at the end of the summer that includes a brief description of each of the ministries and a survey. A kick-off meeting of ministry chairs will take place to coordinate calendars. - It is hoped that more youth will participate in each ministry and that leaders will recognize the work of youth in that ministry. This is also an opportunity for leaders to groom successors of a particular ministry. - Some ministries that have been separate in the past can be grouped together. - There was also a proposal to start a new ministry for young families.
Communication: The vestry discussed the need for a vestry liaison to each of the ministries. Also, we need a communication “leader” who can oversee the website, mailings, etc. A meeting will be held on Monday, May 17 to discuss this topic.
Old business: (Suggestion box). Coffee hour after 8:00 service: This is successful. Marsue will make an announcement at the 8:00 service to remind parishioners. The Episcopal flag has returned to the front of the church.
Prayers of the people have included individual names; this has increased awareness of parishioners need for prayer. We also discussed putting forms separate from the pledge form so we can gather information on parishioners information, including email addresses. Other parishes have successfully used email as a way of reminding parishioners of activities, etc. Scott Avedisian reported that as soon as the parking study in Cranston is done, he will report on the parking situation around the church.
The next regular vestry meeting will be June 14 at 7:00 in the Bay Room.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 PM. Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting
Trinity Church, Pawtuxet
Worshipping
Welcoming
Working
To Bring Joy to God
April 12, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Gail Anderson; Scott Avedisian; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Sandy Demarinis; Linda Deming; Susan Halvarson; Donna Manchester; Dan Stomberg; Rev. Marsue Harris
Vestry Members absent: Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill; Nancy Dorsey; Stephan Sloan
Guests: Bill Plumb
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Opening Prayer – Bill Baddeley Lord, we are grateful for many things tonight: for all the people who are ensuring a swift and certain recovery from the floods, for new beginnings of life all around us and in your church, for the Easter promise of life in your kingdom, for Marsue, and for this capable and energetic vestry at a time of change and opportunity. Help us to discern your will in the work we do. As we begin our journey toward an understanding of our parish, and as our young people travel to New York, we ask that you, who journeyed with Luke and Cleopas to Emmaus, journey with us as we set out. Guide us in the way and defend us from all evil. Amen
Minutes: The minutes were accepted as corrected.
Correspondence: From the suggestion box: - Start the newsletter again: Bill Baddeley will talk with Andy regarding communications. The vestry was asked to offer information from the areas that they oversee to put in the newsletter. - Should we have nametags again: It was decided that temporary nametags to use during coffee hour would be a good idea. - Have ushers greet new people, give them nametags and ask them to come to coffee hour: there is an ushers meeting coming up. This topic will be given to them to discuss. - Expand Sunshine and Prayer Chain so that the whole parish is aware: Parishioners are asked to call the office if they are sick and in need of a visit from Marsue or prayer. The prayers for the people will be modified to include more mention of people who need prayers. Also, the bulletin can include specific prayer needs. - Put front of pew back in place, along with the Episcopal flag: Bill Baddeley will work on getting the flag in place. It was decided not to replace the front of the pew at this time. - Have coffee in the Bay Room after the 8:00 service: we will try this for a couple of weeks and monitor response.
Senior Warden’s report: No report.
Stewardship: Stewardship should be a process that takes place throughout the year. For example, parishioners could speak on why they give to Trinity. Also, put the pledge cards out and into the pews for those who have not returned their cards, or for those who did not receive cards and want to pledge. Volunteers are needed to be on a stewardship committee. Vestry is urged to think about possible candidates.
Junior Warden’s report: - Emergency lights have been installed downstairs. - Several people helped clean up after the flooding: Thank you to Bill Baddeley, George Foley, Linda Deming, Carol Deming, Wayne Barnes, and some who remain anonymous for the help. Since this was an emergency situation, it was decided that Bill can spend more than the $500 limit to handle these kinds of situations without vestry approval. - A FEMA representative was at coffee hour on Sunday asking if anyone needed help. The FEMA phone number will be placed in the bulletin for those who need it.
Happy Hollow: Bill reported that issues regarding insurance for Happy Hollow have been resolved. Premiums will be an additional $812 for the year. The relationship between Happy Hollow and Trinity may require that Happy Hollow be included in the annual audit. There was some discussion of the level of certification that would be best for Happy Hollow.
Treasurer’s report: Bill Caldwell went over the treasurer’s report.
Interim Rector’s report: Holy week and Easter: there were nine more people attending Easter services this year than last year. The vestry was generally pleased with the turnout on Easter. Meetings: Marsue would like to attend meetings of committees (ministries). Ministry chairs should inform Marsue of a meeting so she can attend. Interim tasks worksheets: Marsue had sent out previous to the meeting a list of the 5 steps in the Interim process and asked us to review them for discussion at the meeting. This was intended as an overview of the work so that the vestry understands the steps, supports the interim process and is able to help explain it to the congregation as we go along in the year ahead. At the meeting, the vestry gave their impressions as to where we are in the various steps---tasks that seem to be resolved and those presently engaged. Marsue cited the March vestry retreat as a good beginning to engaging the tasks. A more formal undertaking of the steps will begin after the appointment of the Self Study Committee. Awhile back names had been received for membership on the Self Study Committee which will be considered. It is important for the Self Study committee to represent a cross-section of parish membership, including long time and newer members, younger and older people and those from various ministries. Committee members need be open to a journey of discovery as to where Trinity is now. In addition, the mailing lists need to be resolved so we have one list of parishioners, rather than several differing lists that we currently have. Parking: Parking is difficult around Trinity. We would like to have three designated handicap spots put in place outside the front of the church. Mayor Fung has been asked to convey information to Scott Avedisian about this. It was suggested that we create a “handbook” for parking: publicize that we can park in the lot near the playground; possibly offer valet parking.
Ministry Reports:
FUNdraising: The Palm Sunday bake sale brought in $197. Thank you to the parishioners who offered baked goods. There will be a progressive supper on Saturday, May 1. There are several choices for meals. We will start at Donna Manchester’s house at 6:00 for cocktails and appetizers. Then people will be told where their meal will be. Everyone will meet back at the church for dessert and coffee. Seating is limited to 6—8 per house. Tickets are $20.
Social Outreach: There were 24 food boxes, 14 Easter baskets (with candy), and 26 stuffed animals collected for the Easter outreach. In addition there were some clothing donations given to the Rhode Island Donation Exchange Center to benefit victims of the recent RI floods. If parishioners would like to donate items, they can either call the RI Donation Exchange Center to have the items picked up, or they can bring smaller items to the church. The phone number for the Center is: 401-831-5511. Their email address is: info@ridonationexchange.com.
Children’s Christian Education: Godly Play: Nancy Dorsey and Donna Manchester will stay on as Superintendents for another year while phasing Carl Hurtubise in as Superintendent. Awards Sunday will be June 6. The kids will be active participants in the service that morning. Junior high and high school: Margaret Thomas will be leaving at the end of this year. She has suggested that we contact the diocese which has programs for this age group and possibly join our youth groups with groups from other parishes.
New business: Ministry designations and chairs/convenors Bill Baddeley will send a request to each of the ministry chairs asking them to write a brief paragraph describing what the committee does, what is expected of the members of the ministry, who serves in the ministry, and who the contact person is. This will be used to recruit new members.
It was suggested that we make the church sign more interesting to passers-by.
It was also suggested that Sunday services be changed up a bit.
Gaspee Day: There will be a pancake breakfast at the church on Gaspee weekend. There will also be an ecumenical service at Trinity.
Old business: None.
Agenda items for next time: Discuss each of the ministries.
The next regular vestry meeting will be May 10 at 7:00 in the Bay Room.
Closing prayer
The meeting was adjourned at 8:51 PM. Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
March 8, 2010 Minutes
Trinity Church, Pawtuxet
Worshipping
Welcoming
Working
To Bring Joy to God
Vestry Members absent: Gail Anderson; Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill
Guests: Win Wilson; Sue Hinckley
The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM.
Opening Prayer – Stephan Sloan Almighty Father, we thank you for raising up among us faithful servants for the ministry of your Word and Sacraments. We pray that Rev. Harris, this vestry, and the people of Trinity Church may be an effective example in word and action, in love and patience, and in holiness of life. Grant that all of us together may serve you now, and always rejoice in your glory, through Jesus Christ. Amen
Minutes: The minutes from the January 16 meeting were approved with a correction; the minutes from the January 27 vestry retreat were approved with a correction.
Correspondence: Thank you to Matthew Leal for helping set up for the Shrove Tuesday pancake supper.
Stewardship: After discussion, it was decided that a letter should go out to parishioners that includes some ideas from the vestry retreat; includes a suggestion that the parishioner try to increase their pledge; stress that this is a “new beginning” for Trinity; let them know someone will follow up with a phone call if no pledge is received; and enclose a pledge card. It was suggested that we include charts of information for perspective on how the parish as a whole are pledging.
Treasurer’s report: Bill Caldwell went over the Treasurer’s report. Of note is that pledges are on target as budgeted; the diocesan apportionment budget number should be about $32,000 and not $27,990 as budgeted; and most of the amount in designated gift income was for Fr. Runner’s final gift. .
Rector’s Time: Rev. Marsue Harris went over the schedule for Holy Week: Maundy Thursday service, Good Friday service at noon; Stations of the Cross at 7:30; no Vigil on Saturday; two services Easter Sunday. There will also be an overnight vigil on Maundy Thursday into Friday. She has not determined her office hours, but plans on being in the office on Mondays. Marsue mentioned that she likes to be called “Marsue” and that there are some things she would like to do to add variety to the service; for example, have laity speak as a sermon. She also mentioned that Trinity could use new chalice set; perhaps a gift could cover the expense.
Resolutions: Two resolutions were accepted by the vestry: 1) The Rev. Marsue Harris is employed as a minister of the Gospel by Trinity Church, Cranston, Rhode Island and that all of her stipend be designated as parsonage allowance for 2010 within the meaning of that term as used in Section 107 of the IRS Code of 1986. 2) The Rev. Marsue Harris is employed as a minister of the Gospel by Trinity Church, Cranston, Rhode Island, and shall be reimbursed up to $3,000 a year for substantiated business expenses and business travel and mileage.
Rector’s discretionary fund: The Rector’s discretionary fund will be re-established with initial funding of $1,000. There will be a second name on the account in case of an emergency: Treasurer, Bill Caldwell.
Ministry Reports: In the future, vestry members will be assigned a committee to report on.
Social Outreach: Collection for the personal care kits was very successful: we put together 30 complete bags. In addition, there was $70 in cash and a $25 food card donated to this drive. The kits will be given to House of Hope and the cash and food card will be given to the Bishop Hunt Help Center. Easter food boxes will be packed on March 28. Since Sue Hinckley will be out of town, Ginny Leahy will be in charge and will need help packing the boxes.
Fundraising: There will be a bake sale on Palm Sunday. Plans are in the works for a progressive dinner to take place on May 1. There will also be a pancake breakfast during Gaspee Days.
Discussion
Membership: There was some discussion of how to determine who our members are. A meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 10 after the Simple Supper and prayer service to work on a membership list. We plan to send a postcard out that would list our Easter services and encourage them to attend. There was a suggestion that we hold a “Homming weekend” in the fall to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the building.
“What part of the body are you?”: There was some discussion of how to get people to sign up for different ministries. We decided to highlight one or more ministries in a newsletter; add to the information that goes out at announcement time; include a list of the ministries with a short description in the pews; move the chart to the front of the church so people can sign up during communion.
The next regular vestry meeting will be April 12 at 7:00 in the Bay Room.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:43 PM. Closing prayer Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting
Trinity Church, Pawtuxet
Worshipping
Welcoming
Working
To Bring Joy to God
VESTRY RETREAT
February 27, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Scott Avedisian; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Sandy Demarinis; Linda Deming; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan; Dan Stomberg;
Vestry Members absent: Gail Anderson; Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill
Guest: Reverend Marsue Harris
Business: Ann Walter has asked to delay the start of the Episcopal charities campaign; the vestry accepted her request. Ginny Caldwell has been asked to serve on the board of Happy Hollow; the vestry accepted the motion to approve her appointment. Sandy DeMarinis asked for a copy of the bylaws. It was suggested that this document be posted to the Trinity website.
Introductions: Reverend Harris and the members of the vestry introduced themselves and talked about how they came to Trinity. After the introductions, the vestry broke into three groups to go over the mutual ministry review. After lunch, the groups met to prepare a master chart. There was some discussion of individual items; differences came primarily from not interpreting the ministry in the same way as other groups. A final master chart was prepared.
Group suggestions (from my group (Donna Manchester; Scott Avedisian; Bill Baddeley; Sandy DeMarinis)): • Make the newsletter something that could be sent in email to parishioners on a regular basis • Allow parishioners to pay their pledges through a paypal or some other electronic system (automatic deductions, etc.) • Organize a campaign to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the church building. Include “100” in advertisements: “$100”; “100 pennies”; “100 minutes”. • Communicate to parish what their dollars pay for; i.e., “your $5 pledge pays for one child to attend Godly Play for a week”. • Prepare questionnaire to use during self study. • Hold a series on “forgiveness” to focus on moving on and not dwelling on the past. • Communicate with parishioners who have left the church: an “invitation” postcard to let them know about Lenten and Easter services and to meet our new interim priest. • Hold announcements at beginning of service when people are more likely to listen. • Gather feedback from Godly Play parents on how program is going. • Bible study: call on local clergy who could help; since Sarah is interested in Bible study, have her organize a group to have Bible study; combine Cranston parishes to hold Bible study. • Hold a series of talks where nonprofits come in to talk about what is happening in the area. • Coordinate the YPF going on a mission, possibly in cooperation with St. Luke’s • “Spice up” the worship: use Rite One; morning prayer services; Jazz mass • Call for hymn suggestions: basket at back of church for “Hymn requests” • Children in worship: have them be part of the usher team • Recruit more women to serve as acolytes • Focus on defining the different ministries in the church in one of the newsletters • Include programs during coffee hour • Outreach: hand out bags (maybe with “Trinity Church” printed on them) to gather food for food drive • Make effort to sign up Trinity as the charity of choice on parishioners’ Shaw’s cards • Scrip card fundraiser: mail out sheets to parishioners • Merge TAG with fundraising • Have vestry member sit at different tables during coffee hour to mingle and get feedback • Arrange tables for coffee hour “Durgen Park” style • Fabric: see if we can get grant money to replace aging roof with a “green” roof
Collective comments:
Doing well: • Godly Play • Worship • Choir • Acolytes • Lectors • Altar Guild • Ushers • Outreach • Prayers and Squares • Fabric
Failing/Nonfunctioning/Needs work • YPF • TAG • Episcopal Charities • Welcoming • Website • Communication
Needs Leadership/Help • Bible Study (needs leader) • 7-UP (needs leader when Margaret “retires”) • Nursery (needs second person; safe-church training) • Chalice (needs new people) • Altar Guild (needs leader; new people) • Coffee Hour (needs participation) • Outreach (needs help) • Welcoming (needs organization and plan of action) • Ushers (needs new leader and new people) • Episcopal Charities (needs help to meet goals) • Money Counters (needs people)
Need to Recruit for: • Lectors • Acolytes • Chalice • Ushers
Share with Other Churches in the Area • Bible Study • YPF • Mission program • TAG (social aspect) • Use ECC as gathering place?
Change Up/Add Variety • Worship Services • Coffee hour • TAG/Fundraising merge
New Programs • Recycling • Green initiatives • Use Bishop’s blend coffee
Training/Thought/Planning Needed • Bible Study • Nursery (needs safe church training) • New Lectors • Chalice • LEMs • Altar Guild • Welcoming/Ushers • First Aid training
Needs “advertising” • Prayer chain • Prayers and squares
Set up • Children in worship (get them more involved) • Stewardship (needs campaign)
Questions: • How do we define “membership”? • How do we relate to other churches? • How do we feel about rituals for people who don’t “go to church”? (We decided that if people feel they are part of the Trinity “community”, then ritual should be ok to take place at Trinity.)
To do • Get green and blue bins for recycling • Start up fundraising activities
The next vestry meeting will be held on Monday, March 8 at 7:00. Agenda items: • Set a date to go through lists of “members” and either call or send postcard/letter to people who have not come to church in a while. • Stewardship campaign • Activities/ministries---“which part of the body of Christ are you?” • Soup, sandwiches, and spirituality on March 10 needs place and hosts • Refreshments to be provided by Nancy Dorsey
Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting
Trinity Church, Pawtuxet
Worshipping
Welcoming
Working
To Bring Joy to God
February 16, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Gail Anderson; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Sandy Demarinis; Linda Deming; Stephan Sloan
Vestry Members absent: Scott Avedisian; Bruce Beattie; Patti Cottrill; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Dan Stomberg; Donna Manchester
Guest: Rev. Marsue Harris
The meeting was called to order at 7:26 PM.
Opening Prayer – Stephan Sloan
Marsue Harris: Rev. Marsue Harris was invited to the vestry meeting as a candidate for interim clergy. After a period of mutual questions and answers with vestry members at the meeting, there was a motion to call her to the position of interim clergy. This motion was seconded and accepted unanimously. Stephan Sloan will draw up an agreement in accordance with the diocesan standard form, review it with Marsue and forward it to Betsy Fornal for the bishop’s approval.
Stewardship: Win Wilson agreed to use a letter-writing campaign. Hand-written letters to the top pledgers will be written by vestry members. After writing out the letters, vestry members should leave them at the office to be mailed out along with pledge cards.
Minutes: The minutes from the January 27 meeting were approved.
Correspondence: None
Treasurer’s report: None
Vestry Retreat: Saturday, February 27 at location and at a time to be determined.
The next regular vestry meeting will be March 8; the vestry retreat will be held on Saturday, February 27. Place and time to be determined.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 PM. Closing prayer Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting
Worshipping
January 27, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Bill Baddeley; Bruce Beattie; Bill Caldwell; Patti Cottrill; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Sue Hinckley; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan
Vestry Members absent: Wayne Barnes; Dan Stomberg Guest: Terri Giviens; Sandy DeMarinis; Fred Holst; Barbara Read; Bill Plumb; Shirley Halvarson
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 PM.
Opening Prayer – Nancy Dorsey
Dear God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, We thank you for this day, and for your guidance on the work we have done so far. We ask for help to strengthen our faith in you, God the Father, to learn from the ways of your Son Jesus Christ, and to be inspired by the Holy Spirit to continue to do your work." Amen
Barbara Read: Barbara has taken over the Altar Guild and she came to the vestry meeting to request the vestry’s help in recruiting another member for the Guild. She also requested that parishioners be reminded to use their envelopes. The vestry expressed its appreciation for Barbara’s taking over the Altar Guild.
Minutes: The minutes from the January 11 meeting were approved.
Correspondence: Thank you notes were received from Win Wilson for the prayer quilt. South Providence Neighborhood ministries Maryann Kolikowski for being included at a meeting about Godly Play
Treasurer’s report: The proposed 2010 budget was discussed. Specific line items to note are: Information on clergy salary assumed one month pay to Fr. Runner; 10 months pay to part-time interim clergy; and six weeks payment for supply clergy. Scott Manchester has taken over snow removal for 2010. Building and grounds expenses were set to 0 due to that line being difficult to estimate. Apportionment for 2009 is several months behind. For 2009, the total owed is $11,720. The deficit of $41,767 was taken from the principle of the endowment fund. Grocery and Scrip card income is included in the fundraising line There were other line items that were rough estimates: Happy Hollow income Fundraising income It should also be noted that the Armbrust Fund and corresponding expenses were not included in the budget. A motion to accept the budget was made, seconded, and approved as submitted. There are two times in 2010 when the budget should be adjusted: At the closing of the Stewardship campaign When we have hired Interim clergy Stephan Sloan called for ideas of areas where the Armbrust funds could be used in 2010. In general, these are worship-related projects and not maintenance/building projects. Stephan would like ideas by the end of February.
Trinity Church Life: Nancy discussed recruiting ideas to present at the annual meeting. Poster boards, sign-up sheets, and a suggestion box were some of the suggestions.
Vestry Retreat: Saturday, February 27 at location to be determined.
Ministry Review: This will be part of the vestry retreat.
Stewardship: It was decided that the Quill program was not a wise idea for this year; we will revisit using this program in future years. Win Wilson has generously volunteered to help with a stewardship campaign. Nancy Dorsey also knows of a contact who could be a resource for planning a campaign.
Self Study Committee: The schedule of events was laid out: hire an interim rector; put together a self-study committee; put together a search committee.
Interim clergy: No update.
Church calendar: February 16 (Shrove Tuesday): Pancake supper February 17: Ash Wednesday Wednesdays throughout Lent: “Soup, Sandwiches, and Spirituality”. Hosts: February 24: Bill Baddeley March 3: Donna Manchester March 10: TBD March 17: TBD March 24: TBD March 31: Sandy Demarinis March 28: Palm Sunday April 1: Holy Thursday April 2: Good Friday Camp: we will try to get someone to run this April 3: Easter Vigil and Agape feast: we will try to get someone to coordinate the feast April 4: Easter Suggestions: Use a large wall calendar to mark events and post it in the parish hall. Include birthdays and anniversaries on the calendar Gather email addresses of parish members so we can send out messages instead of mailing hard copies It was suggested that vestry members announce upcoming events at the announcements during the service.
Membership outreach: It was also suggested that the wardens contact people who have left the parish and give them an update on the status of Trinity. Another suggestion was to ask parish members to let the wardens know of people they know who have left the parish so the list can be complete. Among the activities to include in their message is Godly Play. A suggestion box will be put in the parish hall.
Prayer service: More information to come soon.
Coffee hour: The Andersons have volunteered to coordinate coffee hour servers.
Nursery: Sheri is working on getting a second person for the nursery.
Safe church training: Upcoming classes: February 4 and February 11 (evenings) at St. Mark’s; March 13 (all day) in Wakefield. We are looking into hosting training at Trinity sometime in May. Cost is $10. Final preparations for the turkey supper were discussed. The next vestry meeting will be the vestry retreat on Saturday, February 27. Place to be determined.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:54 PM. Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
January 11, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Patti Cottrill; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Sue Hinckley; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan; Dan Stomberg
Vestry Members absent: Wayne Barnes; Bruce Beattie; Father Runner
Guest: Phillip James
The meeting was called to order at 7:09 PM.
Opening Prayer – Sue Hinckley:
Dear God, Thank you for giving us this day and allowing us to come together as members of the Trinity family. We ask that you give us guidance, tolerance, and understanding for the tasks before us. With your gentle hand on our shoulders, enable us to make decisions for the church that will lead us to the vision that you have for us. Reminding us each that change is inevitable and to embrace all opportunities for growth. Please help us all to be the best we can be today, tomorrow, and all the days following, knowing that our best may be different from day to day. By remembering to keep you in our hearts, we can be assured that whatever we do accomplish is blessed by you. Amen
Phil James read a statement as a response to Jeanne Knowles’s statement from an earlier vestry meeting; Phil’s statement will be filed with these minutes in the church office. His statement was followed by discussion.
Minutes: The minutes from the January 4 meeting were approved.
Correspondence: A thank you note was received from Wyman School for the Thanksgiving boxes. Requests for thank you notes to be sent to: Win Wilson for contributing proceeds from sold copies of his book during a book signing on Sunday, January 10. The Manchester Family for hosting the party honoring Fr. Runner and Karen Phil James for managing the grocery cards
Treasurer’s report: The final 2009 spreadsheet was presented.
Fr. Runner’s party on January 17th: Plans were firmed up for this event.
Annual Meeting: The annual meeting will be held on January 31. The vestry voted to hold only one service at 9:00 on January 31. Godly Play for both age groups will take place during Sunday service. Child care will be provided during the service and during the annual meeting. The annual meeting will take place in the parish hall. A breakfast will be served. Tables for committee sign-ups will be set out to solicit volunteers.
A letter will be sent out to committee heads for committee reports to be included in the hand-outs. Committee reports will be due to Joyce by January 20. The parish will be notified that if someone cannot attend the annual meeting and would like to vote, they can contact a vestry member to take their vote to the meeting. Bios will be solicited for the candidates on the ballot.
Child care: We are in need of a second person to staff the nursery. Susan Halvarson will follow up with Sherry regarding getting a second person to help with the nursery.
Altar Guild: We are in need of someone to take over as altar guild chairperson. Bill Baddeley will contact Janet James for information.
Coffee Hour: We are in need of someone to take over organizing coffee hour servers.
Ministry Review: This process will continue and be part of the Self-Study Committee report.
Vestry Retreat: Tentative date: February 27 at the N.Y. Yacht Club in Newport. Stephan to confirm location. Time to be determined.
Self Study Committee: Bill Baddeley will be the warden representation on this committee. Two people in the parish have expressed an interest in serving on the committee.
Meeting with members of other Rhode Island churches in transition: The Dean of the Cathedral is interested in holding a prayer service for members of all Rhode Island Episcopal churches in transition. Information to come. Interim clergy: The vestry is working on getting supply priests until an interim priest can be put in place. Marsue Harris will serve on January 24; Sean Manchester is available for dates in February. A suggestion was put forth that we may be able to use a Deacon if supply clergy or interim clergy is not available.
Church calendar: The vestry agreed that it would be good for planning purposes to look one quarter ahead and to create a master calendar. Bill Baddeley and Stephan Sloan to work on a vestry calendar with information on upcoming events and due dates.
Upcoming events: Turkey dinner: the vestry will host a turkey dinner on Friday, January 29. Details on time and prices to be determined. Ash Wednesday: February 17 Easter: April 4 Instead of home eucharists, it was suggested that we hold evening prayer on Wednesdays during Lent with soup and sandwiches afterwards in the parish hall: “Soup, Sandwiches, and Spirituality”.
The next vestry meeting will be WEDNESDAY, January 27 at 7:00. NOTE CHANGE OF DAY.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 PM.
Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted as corrected by Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
Vestry Meeting Trinity Church, Pawtuxet Worshipping Welcoming Working To Bring Joy to God
January 4, 2010 Minutes
Vestry Members present: Vickie Ancona; Bill Baddeley; Bill Caldwell; Patti Cottrill; Nancy Dorsey; Susan Halvarson; Donna Manchester; Stephan Sloan;
Vestry Members absent: Wayne Barnes; Bruce Beattie; Sue Hinckley; Dan Stomberg; Father Runner
The meeting was called to order at 7:09 PM.
Opening Prayer – Stephan Sloan:
Dear Lord,
We ask for your blessing on our meeting tonight. We pray for clarity of thought and unanimity of purpose in our deliberations so that the decisions we make will serve not only our immediate needs but your future for Trinity Church. Make us aware of our responsibilities and help us to ensure that whether the issues before us relate to spiritual or material matters, we are conscious that above all, the endeavors of ourselves, our parishioners and our physical assets are directed to bring joy to you. Help us not to be inward looking and to remain rightly ordered as we work through the tasks before us in this time of transition. Amen
Minutes: The minutes from both the December 14 and December 17 meetings were approved as corrected.
Correspondence: Requests for thank you notes to be sent to: Betsy Fornal for attending the December 17 meeting Jeannie Potter for her generous donation in response to Trinity’s financial situation Theo Ashman for continuing his generous support for Trinity Friedell family for receipt of a matching contribution from the MEDCO Health Solutions CharitableTrust Trinity Choir for their contribution to the Christmas services
Nominating Committee: The following slate will be presented at the annual meeting for membership on the vestry: Bill Baddeley---Junior Warden Bill Caldwell---Treasurer Susan Halvarson---Assistant Treasurer Vickie Ancona---Clerk Gail Anderson Scott Avedisian Linda Deming Sandy Demarinis Delegates to the Diocesan Convention: Bill Baddeley Stephan Sloan Donna Manchester Bill Plumb
Treasurer’s report: No report. The final 2009 spreadsheet will be forwarded to vestry members by the next vestry meeting.
Stewardship: Stephan called for volunteers to get more involved in the stewardship process; Nancy Dorsey volunteered.
Meeting with other Wardens of Cranston churches: Stephan and Bill reported on their meeting with members of the vestry of Transfiguration. One suggestion was to have all the vestries of each church gather to pray together at one of the churches or at the Cathedral.
Self Study Committee: A letter will be drafted this week to be sent to the parish describing the process and calling for volunteers to serve on the self study committee. An announcement will also be made at each of the Sunday services. Once a list of volunteers has been put together, the vestry will determine the best six to serve on the committee. The committee needs to encompass as much of the parish as possible.
The Ministry Review committee needs to continue its work; this information will be of value to the self study committee to complete its work.
Interim clergy: The vestry is working on getting supply priests until an interim priest can be put in place.
Snow policy: The vestry voted to recommend that when there is a parking ban in Cranston, there will be no church school or child care. A notice will be given to parents of church school attendees.
Rides: It was suggested that it would be good if we could have a system of offering rides to people who cannot get to church on their own. This topic will be added to the Ministry review list.
Fr. Runner farewell activities: Plans were firmed up for both the January 9th and January 17th celebrations.
Annual Meeting date: The vestry voted to hold the annual meeting on January 31. Committee reports will be due to Joyce prior to the meeting.
The next vestry meeting will be January 11 at 7:00. Agenda items to include: Event calendar; coffee hour communications.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:58 PM.
Closing prayer
Respectfully submitted by
Vickie Ancona Clerk of the Vestry
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