Vestry minutes – September 20, 2014 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Nov 11, 2014 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
September 20, 2014
Present: Bob Bess, Bob Blomstrom, 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.
Not present: Diana Panther, Treasurer.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Saturday, September 20, 2014, at 3:00 PM in the home of Gil and Susan Kleinwechter. The meeting followed the Vestry retreat in the same location.
Minutes of the August 17, 2014, meeting were approved as distributed.
Children and Youth Minister/ School Chaplain Report
The written report of Corrie Cabes, CYM, is attached and made a part of these minutes.
Diocesan Information
Joel Walker reiterated the information previously given regarding the upcoming convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Fort Worth. The Bishop of the Diocese of Texas will be the keynote speaker. Once again he encouraged all Vestry members to plan to attend.
Committee for Church Growth
Elizabeth Mason, chair, announced the introductory Town Hall scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled. There were only 8 responses from the numerous emails sent asking ministry heads to attend. There seems to be some confusion on the purpose of the committee. The Senior Warden and committee chair will revise the handout to clarify its purpose. The group will meet to determine how to proceed in the future.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer’s report was presented in writing only. (See attached.) DJ Mitchell moved the treasurer’s report be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
Interim Rector’s Report
Ayo Omoniyi and the Discernment Process: Ayo Omoniyi spoke to the Vestry to tell of 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.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal School Update: The school was recently inspected by the licensing authority and was cited for 10 minor items, all of which have been corrected.
New Ministry to Veterans and Their Families: A new ministry to veterans and their families is beginning at St. Martin. The goal of the ministry is to assist veterans and their families who are dealing with problems as a result of their service – both those within the congregation and those in our community. Child care will be provided for all sessions. A brain training workshop will be done in connection beginning on October 11. Other veterans in the congregation will be encouraged to become involved to provide support.
Senior Warden’s Report
Playground Changes Voted: The school director has received a proposal from a vendor for improvements to the playground, including vendor installation. DJ Mitchell moved the Senior Warden be authorized to 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. The motion was seconded and carried.
Staff Addition Proposed by the Canon: Canon Janet Waggoner has proposed that St. Martin-in-the-Fields add Slaven Manning to a temporary parish staff position. Bob Blomstrom moved the Vestry authorize the Senior Warden to decline the Canon’s proposal. The motion was seconded and carried.
Transition Committee To Be Appointed
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.
2013 Audit Accepted
The Vestry received the report of the audit committee who reviewed the 2013 financial records of St. Martin-in-the-Fields. DJ Mitchell moved the Vestry accept the audit for forwarding to the diocese. The motion was seconded and carried.
The Vestry joined in thanking the Kleinwechters for their hospitality for the day.
The meeting adjourned at 4:15 PM with prayer by Joe Panther.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.
 
Children and Youth Minister/School Chaplain Report
September 2014
Wednesday Nights
Jr.’s Adventures Bible study has been so much fun! The kids are learning about the principles of ownership and how God fits into the picture. Through interactive outdoor games, cooking and stories, children are learning to lead a God-centered generous life.
Second Sundays Stats (Lunches Made /Delivered to Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County)
July 2014-84 Sack Lunches
August 2014-91 Sack Lunches
September 2014-100 Sack Lunches
This intergenerational outreach work will expand in the colder months with each lunch containing nutritious food and a pair of adult socks. A sock drive will start in October.
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community)
EYC will continue to meet on every second Sunday and fourth Sunday for service, faith and fellowship. One highlight to share includes preparation for Advent. The teens will take on a project of creating large reproductions of the Advent cards used in the Advent Godly Play stories.

Picture this story retold in 8 ft. tall foam board!

Sunday School Theme and Curriculum-It’s All About Servant Leaders!
Sunday school kicked off with Fun Faith Field Day on September 14.A super-hero sized blessing started the festivities that day with Sunday school volunteers sporting superhero t-shirts , costumes and capes. Over 50 children, teens and volunteers joined in a field day with themes from Genesis. Reveling in the cooler weather, the children enjoyed an interactive retelling of the Creation story. It was fun to hear the kids hollering “and God said it was good!” after each day of Creation was read. Playing games with oversized hand-painted world discs, children played “He’s got the Whole World in His Hands” relay and “Creation Kickball.” After cooling off with water bottles and popsicles, the children joined the congregation with an outdoor Eucharist.
Children will have service opportunities at the beginning of each Sunday school morning, with stations where children can create prayer shawls, cards and decorate lunch sacks for Union Gospel Mission. Younger children will experience a brief chapel time with biblical teachings that tie into God’s desire for us to love and serve one another. Older children will brainstorm a Fall outreach project to be worked on during Sunday school.
Did You Know?
The children will experience stories from the Old Testament and New Testament, moving through the entire Bible in three years with the FaithweaverNOW curriculum. New Godly Play stories are being told this year as well. The Bible is alive at St. Martin’s in Sunday school for children and teens. In addition, the Nicene Creed will be broken down into meaningful chunks and explained to the children during Sunday school.
St. Martin’s Episcopal School Chaplain Minute
The “Shell” curriculum, created especially for preschoolers, comes from Virginia Theological Seminary. The students are enjoying each day of the Creation story in the month of September! Godly Play stories are being told to the students as well, with time to wonder and chat about together. Children play instruments and learn short prayers and creeds. Special guests will make appearances such as “St. Nicholas” and “St. Martin.”
Blessings,
Corrie Cabes

Vestry minutes – March 16, 2014 meeting

by Anika Rinker | May 4, 2014 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
March 16, 2014
Present: Bob Bess, Bob Blomstrom, Annette Duff, Pat Hollifield, Gil Kleinwechter, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Elizabeth Mason, Cyndy Sulots, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; the Rev Michael Wallens, Interim Rector; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present: Aubrey Hardman, the Rev Amy Haynie, Associate Rector.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, March 16, 2014, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting opened with worship led by the Interim Rector, using the vision, mission and core values statements.
Minutes of the May 16, 2014, meeting were approved as distributed.
Annual Parochial Report Approved
Canons require that the Annual Parochial Report of every parish must be approved by its Vestry before being forwarded to the diocese. St. Martin’s Annual Parochial Report was not completed in time to be approved at the February meeting. That being the case, the Vestry agreed to break with long-standing policy and consider the report via email. The report was distributed by email and was approved in its final form on March 4 to be forwarded to the diocese. That vote is made a part of these minutes.
Staff Changes
Children and Youth Minister: The Interim Rector distributed copies of the new job description for Corrie Cabes who has previously served as Christian Education Director. (See attached.) Her title is now Children and Youth Minister, serving those 4 years of age through 12th grade. Christian Education for older youth and adults is now the duty of the clergy. Anyone with ideas for adult classes is asked to contact a member of the clergy.
Administrative Assistant: 3 candidates for the position has been interviewed by the Interim Rector, Senior Warden, DJ Mitchell and Paula Jefferson. The interview committee hopes to make a decision by next Sunday.
Other Positions: Candidates are being sought for 2 other positions, which would be extremely part time – Financial Manager and Communications.
Communications
Annette Duff reported that the style guide to be used for materials on the website is still not finalized. The new Academy website is ready to go and will replace the old one. The Academy Facebook page is complete and Cindy James, a member of the school staff, will be doing it.
Diocesan Convention Committee
Joel Walker reminded Vestry members that our deanery, the Fort Worth East Deanery, is responsible for diocesan convention 2014. The committe working on the diocesan convention held its initial meeting Tuesday evening. Convention will be held in the Jack Daniels Club at the ballpark in Arlington. Its layout is excellent for diocesan convention.
St Martin’s Preschool and Academy
School Board Chair Karrie Marling gave an overview of the school. The School Board meets monthly, and all members support the school as one of the most visible outreach arms of the parish. There are currently a total of 62 students enrolled, but there is no breakdown of numbers in classes or days per week enrolled. Three committees have been created to help guide the school currently and in the future – Playground Committee, Technology Committee and Marketing Committee. A board member chairs each committee and more committee members will be solicited from among school parents and members of the congregation. School bylaws will be voted on at the April board meeting, then forwarded to the Vestry for approval. A workshop on Episcopal Schools will be held April 5 and several board members will be attending.
Stewardship
Members of the committee are Aubrey Hardman, chair, Bob Bess, Richard Cabes, Eloise Frye, DJ Mitchell, Courtney Mullaney, Ibun Omoniyi, Ife Omoniyi, Tayo Omoniyi, and Interim Rector Wallens. In the absence of Aubrey Hardman DJ Mitchell reported that the committee is using the 7 holy habits of stewardship for its work this year. Each person chose one of the habits to determine the actions they personally will take. The next meeting of the committee will be next Sunday.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer presented the revised January financial report which includes the Academy financials and the monthly report for February. Joel Walker moved the financial reports be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried. The Treasurer stated that income is down, with pledges received under the amount expected. The information on pledge income will go into the weekly email blast to parishioners and be included in the announcements in services.
Interim Rector’s Report
Newsletter to Return: The newsletter of St-Martin-in-the-Fields is being revived. It will be distributed to the parish electronically and hard copies will be available in the narthex for newcomers and others.
Growing in Faith Together: The Interim Rector once again presented information on the diocesan workshop on how a congregation works, how to keep it healthy and ways to grow. Part 1 will be held April 4 & 5 at Trinity Lutheran Fort Worth. The cost is $25 per person. Details are online at http://bit/ly/Grow0414 . Part II will be held June 20 & 21. He asked all Vestry members to plan to attend if possible.
Vestry Responsibilities: He distributed lists of areas of church life and asked that Vestry members sign up for oversight responsibilities of church departments. Vestry members volunteered as follows:
Stewardship: Bob Bess, Aubrey Hardman, DJ Mitchell
Worship: Bob Blomstrom, Jim Wilson
Evangelism: Elizabeth Mason, Cyndy Sulots
Education Formation: Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield, Cyndy Sulots
Pastoral Care: Joe Panther, Joel Walker
Service and Outreach: Annette Duff, Gil Kleinwechter               
Growing the Church: He sees the need for a Committee to Grow the Church. He distributed copies of his proposal with recommendations for action and listing hoped-for results. (See attached.) Elizabeth Mason volunteered to head the group and Bob Blomstorm to help in its development. The Interim Rector has 15 names for membership on the committee.
Senior Warden’s Report
Tee Shirts Available: The short sleeved tee shirts purchased locally for the visit of the Presiding Bishop cost $1492.00. $850 has come in to date from sale of the shirts. Vestry members were encouraged to purchase commemorative shirts for their families if they have not done so.
Neilson Seminary Support: Lisa Neilson is applying to Virginia Seminary and must submit a statement of the financial support she will receive from St-Martin-in-the-Fields. On the form the Senior Warden will show no funds for tuition, $100 for textbooks.
2014 Festival in the Fields: The Senior Warden has assured Dick Seeber, chair of the Festival that $2000 will be available as seed money for the Festival. Plans include a soccer tournament and a chili cookoff on the same day as the Festival.
Junior Warden’s Report
Phone System Upgrade: Jim Wilson will get the information needed to get the equipment for a phone system upgrade.
Grounds Care: The Fever Soccer Team will take care of the grounds as a service project.
Leaks from Yesterday’s Rain: There were some minor leaks as a result of the rain yesterday. Jr Warden Joe Panther will be contacting Don Sulots for help.
Office Refrigerator Replacement Needed: The refrigerator in the office kitchen cannot be repaired. Panther will send out a solicitation to members of the parish requesting donation of a refrigerator (with icemaker) under 10 years old.
Finance Committee Announced
The membership of the Finance Committee was announced: Jack Bailey, chair, Bob Bess, Aubrey Hardman, Paula Jefferson and Treasurer Diana Panther.
Profile Committee Announced
Jim Wilson, Chair of the Profile Committee, announced the current members of the committee: Bob Bess, Ron Hitchcock, Susan Kleinwechter, Courtney Mullaney and Interim Rector Mike Wallens. This committee is charged with creating a parish-wide survey and the resulting profile that will be used by the Search Committee in its work. Wilson plans that the work of the committee will be completed by the end of April.
Search Committee Chosen
In secret ballot the Vestry elected the following persons to serve as the Search Committee for St-Martin-in-the-Fields: Ashley Hardman, Brian Long, Chris Mullaney, Eloise Frye, Flo Lowrey, Francine deLongchamp, Gil Kleinwechter, Marty Hitchcock, Tayo Omoniyi. A concerted effort was made to ensure all areas of the parish and all age groups were represented. Richard Cabes will chair the committee; Senior Warden Bob Bess will attend meetings, but will have no vote.
The meeting adjourned at 3:55 PM with prayer by Jim Wilson.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.

Vestry minutes – January 16, 2014 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Feb 17, 2014 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
January 16, 2014

Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; the Rev Michael Wallens, Interim Rector; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present:  Steve Anderson, DJ Mitchell.
Absent:  Gary Grant
A called meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Thursday, January 16, 2014, at 6:30 PM in the East Parish Hall.  The meeting opened with prayer by the Interim Rector.  The meeting was called for the purpose of approval of the budget for 2014, to hear of the changes planned in Christian Education and the worship services, and to discuss the upcoming visit to St-Martin-in-the-Fields by the Most Rev Katharine Jefferts Schori.
Treasurer’s Reports
The Treasurer announced the School Board approved a budget for 2014 which was then reviewed and approved by the Finance Committee with the balance of income over expenses rolled back into maintenance of the playground.  She stated that the financial reports she presents to the Vestry in the future will look different with the inclusion of the School as required.
The Treasurer reviewed the final budget that was approved by the Finance Committee.  It includes the final income figures for 2013.  Joel Walker moved the Vestry approve the budget as presented.
Roof and Water Damage
The Senior Warden stated that the education building now has a new roof.  The East Parish Hall was repainted as a part of the repair due to water damage.
Changes in Worship
The Interim Rector reminded Vestry members that worship is the central part of what goes on in an Episcopal church.  All that we do is centered around the altar.  Because of this the first priority in an Episcopal parish is having the children in church.  Sunday School at 9:30 has been very difficult and attendance has declined.  One of the changes being planned is to move the 10:30 service to 10 AM and have Sunday School for adults and children after the service.  Plans call for the 5 PM service during Lent to be a Taize service.
The Visit
The Presiding Bishop, the head of the Episcopal Church will be with us on February 9.  She will have a town hall meeting to share information and listen to concerns about the Episcopal Church at 9:30 AM with all who wish to attend and will celebrate and preach at the 10:30 service.  The Senior Warden plans to attend every service this weekend to invite parishioners to volunteer to help with the visit.  Parishioners are also being invited to contribute to help defray the costs of the logistics of the service.  He asked that the Vestry designate “The Visit” as an approved Fund.  The Vestry members agreed.
The meeting adjourned at 8 PM with prayer by Joe Panther.
 
Respectfully submitted, 
Glenda Morehead
Clerk

Vestry minutes – December 15, 2013 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Feb 17, 2014 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
December 15, 2013

Present:   Steve Anderson, Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; the Rev Michael Wallens, Interim Rector; the Rev Amy Haynie, Associate Rector; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.

Absent:  Gary Grant.

A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, December 15, 2013, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall.  The meeting opened with worship led by the Interim Rector.  (See attached.)
Minutes of the November meeting were approved as distributed.
Christian Education Report
The written report of Corrie Cabes, Director, is attached and made a part of these minutes.
Communications Committee
Annette Duff reported that the committee’s budget request has been given to the Treasurer.  Notification has come in that fee changes are being made by the company handling credit card receipts.  The Interim Rector will contact the company by the 18^th to advise them of our intention to remain with them at this time.
Festival-in the Fields
Dick Seeber, Chair of the event, announced that he had planned that this year’s Festival would be the last, but he has already committed to head the Festival for one more year.  He reviewed this year’s event, both positive and negative aspects, and shared his recommendations for Festival 2014.  (See attached.)
Diocesan Information
Commission on Ministry:  Joel Walker reported that the December meeting of the Commission on Ministry was cancelled, and no meeting is scheduled in January.  The next meeting of the COM will probably be in February.
Eastern Deanery:  The Deanery meeting will be held at St-Martin-in-the-Fields tomorrow evening.  It will include a potluck dinner.  Volunteers are needed at 6 PM for setup and at 6:30 to serve.
Commemoration of Reorganization:  The commemoration of the reorganization of the Diocese of Fort Worth will be held February 8-9, 2014.  The Presiding Bishop and the President of the House of Deputies will both be here for the event.  Details of the schedule will come later, but it is known that on Sunday the President of the House of Deputies will visit St. Luke’s in the Meadows and the Presiding Bishop will visit St-Martin-in-the-Fields.  She will probably be with us for the 8 AM service, to hold a “town hall” type meeting between services, for the 10:30 service, and for a reception following.
Nominating Committee
Gil Kleinwechter and Cindy Sulots have agreed to be nominees for Vestry for 2014.  Conversations continue with other potential candidates.
Stewardship Campaign
Aubrey Hardman announced that $350,000 has been pledged for 2014, compared to the $314,000 that was pledged for 2013.  The stewardship campaign will continue year-long.  In light of this campaign expansion, the committee will be expanded to 5 members.
Treasurer’s Reports
The Treasurer reviewed the financial report year to date.  (See attached.)  Jim Wilson moved the Treasurer’s Report be accepted as presented.  The motion was seconded and carried. 
The Treasurer stated that church and school financials will not be consolidated by year-end. 
A consultant will be coming in at a cost of $1000 to consult with the Treasurer on fund accounting.  DJ Mitchell volunteered to join them for the meeting which will probably occur early on a Saturday morning.
Budget Consideration:  The Treasurer presented the first draft of a budget for the coming year. (See attached.)  Vestry consensus is that a budget cannot be approved until the final numbers for 2013 are in.  A called meeting will be held January 19 for the purpose of consideration of the budget for 2014.
Rector’s Report
Profile Committee:  The Interim Rector stated that 2 important committees need to be formed during the interim – a Search Committee and a Profile Committee.  The most urgent one is the Profile Committee which will use the needed all-parish surveys to create the profile of St-Martin-in-the-Fields – “warts and all.”  Members of the committee need to be persons who are good listeners, who write well and are able to accurately analyze the data from the surveys.  The committee needs to be formed before the first of the year.  “Table Top Discussions” to take place at the Parish Annual Meeting will be led by the Profile Committee members.
Needs To Be Addressed:  He sees 3 subjects in urgent need.  The relation between parish and school needs to be solidified.  As Hardman mentioned, stewardship needs to change to year round.  A determination needs to be made about what goes on before and after Radical Hospitality – how do we assimilate people after we get them in?
Soccer Team Christmas Party:  Last night the Fever Soccer Team had their Christmas party and the Interim Rector was asked to attend and provide the opening prayer.  It was a strong testimony as to what they see as their solidifying relationship with St-Martin-in-the-Fields.
Associate Rector’s Report
Keller Holly Days:  The Associate Rector reported that although the evening of the Keller Holly Days event was bitterly cold, 8 – 9 families from St-Martin-in-the-Fields were involved in the parade.  She thanked Becky Snell who drove the trailer containing our float.  About 200 people lined the parade route.  The tee shirt campaign brought in $591 for St. Martin.  Parade costs totaled $350.  The balance can help provide seed money for future participation in profile-raising opportunities in our community.
Episcopal Youth Event:  Diocesan youth are working on plans to take part in the EYE planned for summer.
Youth to Meet with PB:  During her visit to Diocese of Fort Worth, the Presiding Bishop wants to meet with youth under 18 years of age to get their views on the Episcopal Church.
Heifer Project:  Heifer International says they are matching donations made through today.  The EYC has chosen Heifer Intl as their Christmas project.  The Mission and Outreach Committee is matching $250 of the money raised by EYC.  The Associate Rector encouraged all planning to donate to the EYC Heifer Project to do so today so their contribution will be doubled.
Senior Warden’s Report
Search Committee:  The Senior Warden asked Vestry members to email him with the names of those they suggest as members of the Search Committee.  He would like 3 names from each person on the Vestry.  Richard Cabes will serve as Chair of the Search Committee.  The Senior Warden himself cannot serve on the Search Committee, since as a Vestry member he will be voting on the candidates.
Profile Committee:  This committee will be 6 to 8 members.  Several suggestions were made for members of the Profile Committee.  He again asked Vestry members to email him with further suggestions.
Waggoner’s Timeline:  The Senior Warden shared with Vestry members copies of the timeline for search process he received from Canon to the Ordinary Janet Waggoner and her suggested schedule for same.  Vestry consensus is that the suggested schedule will not be feasible for St-Martin-in-the-Fields.
Telephone System:  St. Martin’s phone system needs to be redone.  Jim Wilson will investigate to determine the best solution for our needs – now and in the future – and report back at the January called meeting.
Gantt Chart:  With several important subjects needing attention there was discussion of a Gantt chart to prioritize all that needs to be done:
Before and after Radical Hospitality
Financial records set-up
School relationship
Stewardship culture change
Parish surveying
Profile Committee
Search Committee
Junior Warden’s Report
The Jr Warden reported the following regarding buildings and grounds:
Watering and Water Meter Changes:  Nothing can be done at present regarding the water meters due to the weather.
Roof Damage Coverage:  The insurance company will cover all damage to the education building caused by damage to the roof, but we don’t yet know how much they will pay.
Playground Surface and Canopy:  The canopy of the playground equipment must be repaired.  The poles of the canopy were twisted by the weight of ice during the recent ice storm.  More gravel needs to be poured to bring the playground surface up to code.
Memorial Garden Trees:  Some of the trees in the Memorial Garden need major trimming.  They currently reach onto the roof of the sanctuary.
Joy in Serving:  Steve Anderson, Jr Warden for the past 3 years, stated that this is his last regular meeting as a member of the Vestry of St-Martin-in-the-Fields.  He has really enjoyed his years of service, and expressed his thanks to all the Vestry for making these years such a joy.
Clergy Housing Allowance Resolutions
Jim Wilson moved the adoption of the following resolution: 
Whereas the Reverend Michael Wallens, an ordained minister, is employed to serve St.-Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church as Interim Rector beginning September 14, 2013; and 
Whereas St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church does not provide a residence for its appointed minister: 
It is hereby resolved that the compensation to be paid to the Rev. Michael Wallens for the calendar year 2014, and subsequent years unless amended, shall include an annual payment of $30,000.00, which is designated as housing allowance, within the meaning of the term as used in Section 107 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
The motion was seconded and carried
Jim Wilson moved the adoption of the following resolution:
Whereas the Reverend Amy Haynie, an ordained minister, is employed to serve St.-Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church as an Assistant Clergy; and 
Whereas St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church does not provide a residence for its appointed ministers:
It is hereby resolved that the compensation to be paid to the Rev. Amy Haynie for the calendar year 2014 and subsequent years unless amended, shall include an annual payment of $48,000.00, which is designated as housing allowance, within the meaning of the term as used in Section 107 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
The motion was seconded and carried.
Mitchell Gift Approved
Sue Mitchell has created a wall hanging to be placed on the wall of the stairwell to the choir loft.  The recently adopted Gift Policy requires that all non cash gifts must be approved by a vote of the Vestry.  Becky Snell moved the Vestry accept the gift from Sue Mitchell.  The motion was seconded and carried.
The meeting adjourned at 2:50 PM with prayer by Jim Wilson.
 
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
 
Called meeting following the annual parish meeting January 26, 2014.
Next regular vestry meeting Sunday, february 16, 12:30 PM, East parish Hall.

Christian Education Report

December 2013

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS
Sunday School Update: In November, a lunch meeting was held with all Sunday school volunteers to discuss Christian education at St. Martin’s for children and youth.  This was a great meeting to gather and brainstorm about the future of Christian education.  To follow up with this meeting, I have invited all Sunday school volunteers and those interested in formation to attend a Christian educator’s workshop that will be held on January 25^th in Terrell, TX.  
Episcopal 101:  Plans are in the works for a new class to be offered for adults on Sunday mornings.  This class will answer questions about our faith, our worship and what it means to be an Episcopalian.  This will also be a great opportunity for those wishing to be received or confirmed.
Youth Survey and Meeting: On January 12^th, the youth and parents are invited to take part in looking at the future of youth ministry at St. Martin’s at a lunch meeting with Fr. Mike and youth leaders.  A survey will go out before the meeting to help get a better picture of what the youth of St. Martin’s see as their vision of faith in action.
Big Thanks–
Advent Fest 2013: Thanks to all who made the Advent Fest a wonderful event.   A welcomed addition to the Advent festivities came in the form of a children’s Christmas store where children could shop for loved ones.  It was great to see the parish family gather at this special coffee hour to mark the beginning of Advent.
–
You Are Invited!
Elves Feast: You are cordially invited to the Elves’ Feast which will be held between services on Christmas Eve in the east parish hall with goodies galore and a visit from Santa!
 Merry Christmas,
Corrie Cabes
Director of Christian Education