by Alan Bentrup | Jan 8, 2015 | Vestry Updates
Vestry Highlights December 21, 2014
As clerk of the vestry I have been authorized by the senior warden to provide the following report of the recent vestry meeting. Full minutes of the meeting will be posted after their approval at the next regular vestry meeting. In the meantime if you have questions or want more information, contact any vestry member.
The Vestry discussed the Playground Usage Policy proposed by DJ Mitchell. The policy was approved with the addition of changes recommended by Vestry members.
The December 13 5 PM service provided an introduction of our new Rector, the Rev Scot McComas, celebrant and preacher for the service. Many parishioners attended the party afterward, getting their first chance to speak with the man who will assume the position February 9, 2015.
McComas participated in the December Finance Committee meeting which took the first look at the budget for 2015. The final budget will be presented for Vestry approval at a called Vestry meeting January 11, 2015.
The Nominating Committee made an updated report of candidates for Vestry and delegates to convention. Gregory Anderson, Bob Bess, Jack Bolerjack, Charles Busey, Mev Matulevich, and Chris Mullaney are nominees for election to the Vestry. Gregory Anderson, Phyllis Bess, Tom Bolerjack, Marty Hitchcock, Susan Kleinwechter, Tayo Omoniyi, Becky Snell and Joel Walker are nominees for diocesan delegates. The committee continues to solicit candidates for both. Elections will take place at the January 25, 2015, annual meeting.
The Vestry approved the traditional Christmas gifts for the deacon and staff. The gifts will be presented at the Elves Feast December 24.
Incursion into the buildings recently has prompted increased security measures. Consideration is being given to installation of more and or different cameras both inside and outside the buildings. The Vestry will be updated as security measures are further increased.
St. Martin currently does not have a candle stand for use only with the paschal candle. Such a stand would be helpful for use by the Altar Guild. Several persons are discussing gifting the parish with a candle stand dedicated for use with the paschal candle. The Vestry voted to accept the gift of a dedicated paschal candle stand.
by Alan Bentrup | Dec 4, 2014 | Vestry Updates
As clerk of the vestry I have been authorized by the senior warden to provide the following report of the recent vestry meeting. Full minutes of the meeting will be posted after their approval at the next regular vestry meeting. In the meantime if you have questions or want more information, contact any vestry member.
At the convention of the Episcopal diocese of Fort Worth which ended Saturday two members of St. Martin-in-the-Fields were elected to positions – Joel Walker was elected to the Standing Committee and Becky Snell was elected to the Disciplinary Board.
DJ Mitchell is drafting a Playground Usage Policy and will have it ready for presentation to the Vestry for approval at the regular December Vestry meeting.
The Finance Committee will prepare the budget for St. Martin-in-the-Fields for 2015 which will be voted upon at the regular December Vestry meeting. The approved budget will be introduced to the parish at the Parish Annual Meeting.
The Nominating Committee made its first report of candidates for Vestry and delegates to convention. Bob Bess, Charles Busey, Mev Matulevich, Chris Mullaney and Gary Wilkinson are nominees for election to the Vestry. More candidates for Vestry and a complete list of nominees for diocesan delegates will be solicited. Elections will take place at the January 25, 2015 annual meeting.
Bob Blomstrom has resigned from the Vestry and he and his family have left St. Martin-in-the-Fields. They go with our thoughts and prayers in the hope they will find peace and opportunities for service in a new church home.
Nicolas Chasteler, a member of Troop 937, the scout troop sponsored by St. Martin-in-the-Fields, presented an Eagle Scout project to the Vestry. The project involves completing the pathway to the outdoor worship area with pavestones and surrounding the worship area with a decorative stone border. He plans to have the project completed no later than the end of February 2015, weather permitting. The Vestry approved his proceeding with his plan.
The Search Committee has completed its work. The Senior Warden is currently in conversation with the candidate presented by the Search Committee. He hopes to be able to announce soon that a contract has been signed by him, the candidate and the bishop. No further information is available at this time.
by Alan Bentrup | Nov 23, 2014 | Vestry Updates
ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
October 19, 2014
Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield, Gil Kleinwechter, Elizabeth Mason, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Cyndy Sulots, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; the Rev Michael Wallens, Interim Rector; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present: Bob Blomstrom.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, October 19, 2014, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting opened with prayer by the Interim Rector.
Minutes of the September 20, 2014, meeting were approved as distributed.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal School
The Interim Rector reported St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal School continues to improve in enthusiasm from both staff and parents, and in support from parishioners. A “drop-in” program is beginning for those who want to make use of it. Children can be brought in for the day only at a set fee for the service.
James Sworn In: Cindy James has been certified by the licensing board as Interim Director of the school and will be officially sworn in at the board office.
Chapel Cross: A wooden cross made especially for the school by Bill Matulevich has been blessed and is being used in chapel.
Playground Funding: The school has received a grant from the diocese for the playground and additional funding has been pledged. Work will begin soon.
Playground Usage Policy: DJ Mitchell will prepare a draft of playground usage policy to be voted on at the regular November Vestry meeting. Playground usage on Sundays must be closely monitored to ensure that older children do not use equipment made for younger children.
Children and Youth Minister Report
The written report of Corrie Cabes, CYM, is attached and made a part of these minutes. Attendance at Godly Play has increased. The recent can drive was very successful. The coat drive begins soon.
Diocesan Information
Joel Walker reported that the current chair of the Commission on Ministry is retiring and the Rev. Henry Penner will take over as chair. Walker encouraged everyone to attend the November 3 meeting of our deanery at St. Luke’s in the Meadow, Fort Worth, to hear the presentation by the Constitution and Canons committee.
Treasurer’s Report
Financial Reports: The Treasurer reviewed the monthly financial reports. (See attached.) Jim Wilson moved the treasurer’s reports be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
Academy Reserve Portion Moved to Playground Fund: DJ Mitchell moved that $7000 from the academy reserve be moved to the Playground Fund. The motion was seconded and carried.
Scout Fund Moved to Playground Fund: Jim Wilson moved that the money currently in the Scout Fund be moved to the Playground Fund. The motion was seconded and carried.
Academy Reserve Balance Moved to General Fund: DJ Mitchell moved that the balance left in the academy reserve – about $10,000.00 – be moved into the General Fund. The motion was seconded and carried.
Dormant Special Funds Closed: The Audit Committee has recommended that dormant special funds be closed and the funds therein be moved to the General Fund. DJ Mitchell moved the moneys in the Chapel, Jesus Doll, Ordination, ECW and Bookstore Funds be moved into the emergency reserve fund. The motion was seconded and carried.
Interim Rector’s Report
Baptisms and Confirmations: The Interim Rector announced that as of now it appears that between November 1 & 2 and November 8 & 9 there are 7-10 baptisms scheduled. Nine persons have been prepared for confirmation by the Bishop when he visits November 9.
Discernment Committee for Omoniyi: The following persons have agreed to serve as a Discernment Committee to guide Ayo Omoniyi in the path to ordination – Courtney Mullaney, Jean Smith and Joe Panther.
As He Leaves: The Rev Mike Wallens described his appreciation of all the Vestry support during his time with us. His work with St. Martin-in-the-Fields ends on November 9. He emphasized that the parish is much stronger now than when he came due to the leadership of the Vestry.
Senior Warden’s Report
Transition Committee: The Senior Warden is in the process of forming a Transition Committee which he will chair. The committee will consist of 9-12 members. The work of the committee is expected to last about a year.
Nominating Committee: Bob Bess, Aubrey Hardman, Joe Panther and Joel Walker will form the Nominating Committee to compile a slate of nominees for Vestry and Delegates to Convention. They hope to have the names to present at the regular November Vestry meeting. The elections will take place at the Parish Annual Meeting on January 25, 2015.
Search Committee Costs: The costs for the search for a new rector are not included in the 2014 budget. To date the committee has spent around $3,500.00. It is expected that at least $1000.00 in additional expenses will be incurred before the search ends.
Junior Warden’s Report
The Jr Warden announced that the roof is still leaking and he has received various suggestions as to the cause. He plans to have it inspected by a professional roofer to get an opinion on the problems and possible solutions to said problems
Outside Wiring: The outside wiring of the church has been checked by an electrician and there are no problems with it.
Announcement
Gil Kleinwechter thanked everyone for the support shown the Search Committee in all their long weeks of work. They all look forward to the completion of their task.
Elizabeth Mason stated that the last Wednesday class of Financial Peace University will be November 5. There will be a video presentation and pot luck dinner. All are encouraged to attend.
The meeting adjourned at 2:15 PM with prayer by Bob Bess.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.
Children and Youth Minister/School Chaplain Report
October 2014
Wednesday Nights
Thanks to the vestry member volunteers who have helped everything run smoothly with the Wednesday Night Financial Peace series! This series wraps up on November 5.
Second Sundays Stats (Lunches Made /Delivered to Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant)
July 2014-84 Sack Lunches
August 2014-91 Sack Lunches
September 2014-100 Sack Lunches
October 2014-100 Sack Lunches
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community)
EYC will continue to meet on every second Sunday and fourth Sunday for service, faith and fellowship. Teens will have opportunities to work closely with Union Gospel Mission including a December outreach project to benefit Union Gospel Mission.
Sunday School Children’s Chapel
Children ages 4 years through 3rd grade participate in chapel each week in Sunday School, before going to Godly Play. They are introduced to the liturgical seasons, simple creeds and prayers.
Youth Musicians at St. Martin’s
A youth musician group has formed, inviting all 6th graders through high school to join in the fun. The group has been preparing to perform “When the Saints Go Marching In” on All Saints Sunday at the 10:30am service. Look for other seasonal performances.
All Saints’ Parade and Trunk or Treat on November 2
Children ages 4 years through 3rd grade are invited to participate in the All Saint’s parade, held at the beginning of the 10:30am service. Our youth musicians will parade too! After the 10:30am service, join us in the parking lot for trunk or treat!
St. Martin’s Episcopal School Chaplain Minute
The students have been introduced to the Old Testament, through the Shell curriculum. They are becoming familiar with the truths found in Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah’s Ark and more. Godly Play storytelling has been introduced and the students are spellbound by what they see. Students and families are given opportunities to respond to God’s love by joining with St. Martin’s canned food drive, coat drive and more this fall. In November, St. Martin will visit the preschool!
Blessings,
Corrie Cabes
by Alan Bentrup | Nov 11, 2014 | Vestry Updates
As clerk of the vestry I have been authorized by the interim rector and the senior warden to provide the following report of the recent vestry meeting. Full minutes of the meeting will be posted after their approval at the next regular vestry meeting. In the meantime if you have questions or want more information, contact any vestry member.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal School continues to improve in enthusiasm from both staff and parents, and in support from parishioners. Cindy James has been certified by the licensing board as Interim Director of the school and will be officially sworn in at the board office. A wooden cross made especially for the school by Bill Matulevich has been blessed and is being used in chapel. The school has received a grant from the diocese for the playground and work will begin soon. DJ Mitchell will prepare a draft of playground usage policy to be voted on at the regular November Vestry meeting. Playground usage on Sundays must be closely monitored to ensure that older children do not use equipment made for younger children.
The current chair of the diocesan commission on ministry is retiring as of the convention in November, and Deacon Henry Penner will begin serving as chair of the committee.
Complying with recommendations of the audit committee the Vestry voted to close various dormant special funds and move all moneys to the general fund.
Interim Rector Mike Wallens announced that including November 1, 2, 8 and 9 between 7 and 10 baptisms are currently scheduled, with 9 persons to be confirmed or received at the visit of the bishop on November 9.
The Rev Wallens emphasized that it is important that the Vestry understand that our parish is much stronger due to its leadership during this interim period. He has appreciated the support of the Vestry during his time with us.
He has begun to appoint a committee to guide Ayo Omoniyi in his ordination journey.
Senior Warden Bob Bess has begun selecting members for the Transition Committee which he will chair. The work of the committee will last about a year.
Bob Bess, Joe Panther, Aubrey Hardman and Joel Walker will serve as the core of the Nominating Committee and begin soliciting candidates for Vestry and delegates to convention. They are asked to be ready to announce their nominees no later than the December Vestry meeting. The nominees will be voted upon at the January 25, 2015 annual meeting.
The costs for the search for a new rector are not included in the 2014 budget. To date the committee has spent around $3,500.00. It is expected that at least $1000.00 in additional expenses will be incurred before the search ends.
The Search Committee is nearing the end of its work. They have narrowed the field to the final few candidates. When they make their final selection, only one name will be presented for Vestry vote, and the presentation and vote will be done in executive session with no visitors or observers. The committee continues to request the patience, support and prayers of the congregation.
by Alan Bentrup | Sep 29, 2014 | Vestry Updates
As clerk of the vestry I have been authorized by the interim rector and the senior warden to provide the following report of the recent vestry gathering. Full minutes of the meeting will be posted after their approval at the next regular vestry meeting. In the meantime if you have questions or want more information, contact any vestry member.
On Saturday, September 20, the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields met in retreat at the home of Susan and Gil Kleinwechter. The Interim Rector led the retreat from 10 AM to 3 PM. Vestry members prayed together frequently throughout the day. They engaged in get-acquainted exercises, discussed Spiritual Grounding, Focus on Vision and Mission, and Challenges Self and Others – all habits of Health Promoting Church Leaders according to Peter Steinke, and considered how St. Martin meets Steinke’s profile of a Healthy Mission Focused Church. The regular September Vestry meeting took place following the retreat.
Ayo Omoniyi came to share with the Vestry his progress in response to a calling to the permanent (vocational) diaconate. He went through the discernment process in Diocese of West Texas. He began his studies with 3 years at Texas Tech but was unable to complete his degree due to illness. He desires to continue his journey toward ordination and has met with Bishop High who has recommended he study at Iona School in the Diocese of Texas. The Interim Rector will appoint a discernment committee who will meet with Omoniyi and report back to the Vestry with their decision regarding his continuing his journey.
A new ministry begins at St. Martin-in-the-Fields on October 16. The focus of the ministry will be support of veterans and their families – any veterans needing such support, both from within the congregation and from outside the parish. It is hoped that veterans and others within the parish will feel called to offer their help to those in need. Initially the group will meet one Thursday each month; childcare will be provided. A brain workshop – providing information on brain injury, concussion and other head trauma – will be held on October 11 in connection with the group but will be open to all who wish to participate.
The shortfall on pledge receipts improved somewhat in August – due in part to the 5 Sundays in the month. The Helping Hands campaign began September 1 and will continue throughout the month. Response has been encouraging so far.
The Vestry received the positive report of the audit committee who reviewed the 2013 financial records of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. As required by canon the Vestry voted to accept the audit before it is forwarded to the diocese.
The Interim Rector and Senior Warden will meet and select those who will be asked to form the Transition Committee. The Senior Warden will then appoint the committee.
The Vestry agreed that the playground must be improved for the benefit of the school. The Senior Warden will meet with the school and advise them the Vestry has voted to purchase whatever is necessary to improve the playground and whatever else is needed to bring it up to code.
