Vestry minutes – June 18, 2013 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Jul 23, 2013 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
June 18, 2013
Present: Steve Anderson, Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Pat Hollifield, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present: Gary Grant, DJ Mitchell.
Absent: Aubrey Hardman.
A meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Tuesday, June 18, 2013, at 7:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. Due to the necessity to move the regular date and time of a meeting for June, the meeting was called by the Senior Warden, Bob Bess, who chaired the meeting and opened with prayer.
Jordan Haynie’s Reception
Joel Walker, of the diocesan Commission on Ministry, announced that Jordan Haynie will be ordained to the priesthood at All Saints at 7 PM on July 9. St-Martin-in-the-Fields has supported Jordan through her entire process toward priesthood. A reception (serving snacks and beverages only) will be held after the service. Help is needed at All Saints starting at 5:30 PM setting up the reception. Walker asked that those who can help contact him. The ordination will be put on the website calendar; Linda Seeber will inform Michele King.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer reviewed the monthly financial reports. (See attached.) Jim Wilson moved the treasurer’s report be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
Consideration of the Letter of Agreement with the Parochial Associate
The Senior Warden presented the proposed Letter of Agreement. Joel Walker moved the Vestry approve the Letter of Agreement between St-Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church and the Rev Amy Haynie as proposed. The motion was seconded and carried, Jim Wilson abstaining.
Security System Installation Update
The Jr Warden reported that installation of the security system is nearing completion. Dan King is putting in long hours to install the system, all on a volunteer basis. Joel Walker moved that $500 be given to Dan King as a thank you gesture for all his help. The motion was seconded and carried.
Senior Warden’s Report
Search Committee Plans The Senior Warden outlined his plan for choosing the members of the search committee for Rector of St-Martin-in-the-Fields, when the time comes for their selection. He plans to request that each Vestry member come to that meeting bringing the names of 3 candidates for the committee. The Vestry would then select the committee from the resulting list. He remarked that in his opinion a committee of 36 is by far too many and 12 is too few. The hope is that the criteria for membership on the search committee can be decided at the July meeting.
Interim Rector He has spoken with the new Canon to the Ordinary of the Diocese, Canon Janet Wagner. She has stated that there is no need to rush the choice of Interim Rector since the Rev Amy Haynie is available to cover priestly duties for the parish at present. She also stated that the person chosen as Interim Rector needs to be someone who is specifically trained for the role.
Junior Warden’s Report
Broken Water Line The Jr Warden announced that the solution used to repair/redo the water line serving St. Martin is good for the long range. The total cost is expected to be just over $8000, $3000 of which has been donated.
Handyman Changes He plans to prepare a different proposal for coverage of handyman duties at St. Martin. He will be bringing the proposal to the Vestry at a later date.
Choir Expresses Gratitude On behalf of the choir Jim Wilson thanked the Jr Warden and Bill Matulevich for correction of the door to the storage closet in the choir loft.
Scout Project Completed The scout project in the Memorial Garden has been completed.
Coke Machine
Apparently the coke machine has been removed. Linda Seeber will check with Michele King to see if she knows who removed it and why.
Church – School Documents Found
A search of church records has resulted in location of bylaws and other documents relating to the relationship between St-Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church and St. Martin Academy. Linda Seeber will see that these are shared with Richard Cabes for use with the Rev David Madison when they start working on the long range plans for the Academy.
The meeting adjourned at 9:22 PM with prayer by Bob Bess.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, JULY 21, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.

Vestry minutes – May 19, 2013 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Jul 23, 2013 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
May 19, 2013
Present: Steve Anderson, Annette Duff, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Jim Reynolds, Rector; Amy Haynie, Parochial Associate; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present: Bob Bess, Gary Grant, Pat Hollifield.
Absent: Aubrey Hardman.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, May 19, 2013, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting opened with prayer by the Rector.
Minutes of the April 21, 2013, meeting were approved as distributed.
Christian Education Report
The written report of Director Corrie Cabes is attached and made a part of these minutes.
Communications Committee
Annette Duff and Gil and Susan Kleinwechter provided an update on the status of the proposed parish website. Susan stated that the goal was to have all the information currently presented in print or electronic form be put on the website. The Rector announced that the staff will be developing the policies regarding the website as the needs arise. Bios of all Vestry members and information on the various ministries of St-Martin-in-the-Fields are needed by Friday. Plans are to launch the new website in the next 2 weeks. The Vestry approved launching the new website when all areas of it are ready.
Diocesan Information
Day of Discovery Joel Walker reported that June 1 at All Saints School there will be a Day of Discovery. Cost for the day is $15 which includes lunch. All are encouraged to attend. The main thrust for the Day will be “What it takes to be ordained.”
Jordan Haynie’s Ordination June 11 there will be a planning meeting in preparation for the ordination of Jordan Haynie to the priesthood at All Saints, Fort Worth, July 9. Jordan will be on the staff at All Saints. The planners have especially asked the help of people from St-Martin-in-the-Fields. Jordan began the ordination to Holy Order process from St. Martin.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer reviewed the monthly financial reports. (See attached.) Jim Wilson moved the treasurer’s report be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
Relationship between the Church and School
Questions were raised about financial reports from St Martin’s Academy on a regular basis. The Treasurer stated that year end financials from the school were included in the Annual Reports booklet. She does not have access to the school’s financial information, so cannot report on its behalf.
Diligent searching has not revealed any papers documenting the relationship between the church and school. As a result, the Parochial Associate has asked the school director to consider being open to the creation of a “letter of agreement” between the school and church, and the director has agreed. Several Vestry members stated that a document detailing the relationship between the church and the school was created in or around 2009. The search for the document will continue.
The Rector reported that over the summer Richard Cabes will be working with the Rev David Madison of the school accreditation board on the requirements for accreditation of the school.
Rector’s Report
The Rector remarked that this is his last Vestry meeting. The shelves and walls in his office are emptying, in preparation for his retirement. He is currently putting together the booklet for the service on June 9 – the liturgy is created to demonstrate the end of the relationship between a parish and its rector. Bishop High will preside at the service during which the Rector will present his letter of resignation and his keys to parish offices and files to the Senior Warden. He plans to perform no sacramental duties in any parish for a year. He asked Vestry members for their support during the last services over which he will preside, the services the weekend of June 2. He thanked all present for their support during his 11 years of service in St-Martin-in-the-Fields.
Parochial Associate’s Report
The Parochial Associate reported the following:
Province Youth Event The Province-wide youth event planned for Dallas this summer has been cancelled since the Diocese of Dallas decided not to participate. It was decided that it was not a good use of resources to hold the planned event for the few youth who were left.
Youth Confirmation Retreat The confirmation retreat for youth was held at Trinity May 3-4 with 16 youth participating. Almost all the youth who participated were then confirmed May 5.
Volunteer Brunch The Volunteer Appreciation event this year was a brunch rather than a luncheon as in the past. The brunch was held between the services today and went really well. Plans are being made to do a program in the fall to help members of the parish determine their spiritual gifts and talents and what ministries in the parish would be a good fit for them.
Back to Church Participation Bishop High intends for every parish to have a focus this fall on getting back into church participation in conjunction with stewardship.
Services during the Interim The Parochial Associate and Deacon will be responsible for the services during the summer until an Interim Rector is called. They plan that one Saturday a month the Deacon will be conducting Evening Prayer, giving the Parochial Associate that evening off.
Summer Children’s Chapel This summer there will be a Children’s Chapel for those children 3 years old through elementary school during the 10:30 service. Older youth will be enlisted to help shepherd the younger ones. The children will join the service during the peace.
Junior Warden’s Report
New Water Line The Jr Warden reported that water started coming up through the pavement in the parking lot on Monday. Water has been restored to the education building, but remains off in the main building. A new water line is needed. He hopes to meet with a new plumber tomorrow. He estimates that replacing the line may run as high as $9,000.
Air Conditioner Repaired On Saturday the AC unit on the south side of the sanctuary started putting out hot air. It was repaired this morning. Apparently nothing is wrong with the unit. The repairman says although it is possible there is a slow leak, he is of the opinion we are once again victims of freon theft.
The meeting adjourned at 1:57 PM with prayer by Annette Duff.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT MEETING A CALLED MEETING TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2013, 7:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL
NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, JULY 21, 2013 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.
Christian Education Report
May 2013
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS
Sunday School wraps up this Sunday, May 19th with a FUN FAITH FIELD DAY. Children and Youth will get a Vacation Bible School games preview with outdoor field games filled with faith inspired themes. Game Master Lou Madsen leads the charge and has developed game stations for our Sunday School children and youth. Face painting, Pentecost origami crane making station and popsicle bar are some of the highlights of this wrap up of a wonderful year in Sunday Christian Education at St. Martin-in-the-“Fun Fields.” Thanks also to Mother Amy Haynie and Sunday School teachers for making this event possible.
Sunday school has brought in new families who have gotten involved in the ministry of St. Martin’s and I am proud to lead a wonderful team of Sunday School volunteers who are very dedicated to Children’s ministry at St. Martin’s. I look forward to a wonderful Fall in Christian Education.
NEW SUMMER PROGRAMS
Children’s Chapel– Beginning Sunday, May 26th, Children’s Chapel will be offered during the 10:30 am Service. At the beginning of the service, children and youth ages 4yrs-12th grade are invited to “Follow the Cross” from the Sanctuary to the Chapel to participate in their own learning of the Bible. Some of the older children will be asked to help lead the reading and discussion of the lessons or by facilitating a fun project for the younger children. Once the sermon is finished, the children return and join their parents and the congregation in time for Communion.
Bible Lessons follow the Revised Common Lectionary and are facilitated by members of the church. Leaders are trained and certified in child safety classes and follow guidelines which require two or more adults to supervise children at all times. Parents are always welcome to visit and learn more about the program.
Diocesan Fine Art Gallery: It has been an amazing privilege to be a part of this Diocesan-wide project. This gallery project, graciously hosted by St. Elisabeth’s Episcopal Church in Fort Worth features art and musical performances from more than 55 artists and musicians. A new “template” has been created for this event with an original liturgy to celebrate the God-given gifts of artists and musicians. On Saturday, May 18th, clergy, youth and lay people from the Fort Worth and Dallas Dioceses will participate in a service starting a 5pm, with blessings for artists and musicians, Stations of the Liturgical year and music from St. Martin-in-the-Fields Choir and Christ the King Choir. After the service, all are invited to move through the gallery and refreshments will be offered under tents on the beautiful St. Elisabeth grounds. A virtual gallery, created by Lefty Brandon, diocesan photographer, will continue the work of the Fine
Art Group, led by The Rev. Cynthia Ruiz, The Rev. Tracie Middleton and Corrie Cabes with contribution from Bishop Rayford High.

Retreat Opportunities: The Fine Art Gallery will host day or evening retreats through June for groups interested in experiencing the Liturgical year through powerful art and liturgy. Contact art.project@edfw.org for more information.
EfM: Education for Ministry, a program through the University of the South, equips lay-persons to be informed and knowledgeable in their daily ministry. Look for an inquirer’s booth in the West Parish Hall after the 10:30am service on May 26th, led by the Reverend Judy Upham, an experienced Fort Worth EfM Mentor.
VBS: We will have a Vacation Bible School Kick-Off Coffee Hour after the 10:30am service on Sunday, May 26th to kick off “Kingdom Rock”, a medieval themed curriculum that is sure to inspire and delight children as they learn that “God is Strong.” Work nights and many planning sessions continue as we prepare for our largest outreach ministry of the year. Vacation Bible School will be held on June 24th-28th . A Family Service will be held on Saturday, June 29th at 5pm at St. Martin’s. Please save the date–following the service, a yummy medieval style banquet will be held in “Ye Royal Eastern Parish Hall” with McTeggart Irish Dancers entertaining the lords and
ladies in attendance.
Security Update: The security system has been purchased and the installation process will begin next week. Thank you for funding and approving this project.
In His Service,
Corrie Cabes
Director of Christian Education

Vestry minutes – April 21, 2013 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Jun 27, 2013 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
April 21, 2013
Present:  Steve Anderson, Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Gary Grant, Pat Hollifield, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Amy Haynie, Parochial Associate; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present:  Aubrey Hardman; Jim Reynolds, Rector.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, April 21, 2013, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall.  The meeting opened with prayer by the Parochial Associate.  In the absence of the Rector the Senior Warden chaired the meeting.
Request from the Rev Gough
The Rev Lauren Gough requested $300 for expenses for the upcoming adult confirmation retreat – $200 to go as an honorarium to New Hope Lutheran Church, where the retreat will be held, and $100 for food.  She will ask participants at the retreat for contributions.  The budget line from which the expenses will come having been determined, no Vestry vote was required.
Mission and Outreach
Joy Malmgren announced the committee is making plans for the following:
For the summer they will try to encourage everyone to participate in a church-wide reading of Same Kind of Different Like Me – a book about Union Gospel Mission.  They may try to plan a fundraising event in connection and ask people to do a day of service at the Mission.
There are tentative plans for something for soldiers in July.
Minutes of the March 17, 2013, meeting were approved as distributed
Christian Education Report
The written report of Corrie Cabes, Director of Christian Education is attached and made a part of these minutes.  She specifically highlighted her meeting with the Bishop.  She also asked that Vestry members plan to attend and help greet people at the Art Event, Saturday, May 18, 5 – 7 PM, St. Elisabeth’s Episcopal Church, Fort Worth.
Security System
Prior to the meeting Pat Hollifield sent Vestry members copies of the 3 proposals he has received from security system companies for professionally installed systems.  Costs ranged from just under $10000 to over $13000.  The Christian Ed Director has researched the possibility of having volunteers do the work.  Joel Walker moved the Vestry authorize Corrie Cabes to do what is necessary to have a security system installed at a cost under $2000.  The motion was seconded and carried.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer reviewed the monthly financial reports.  (See attached.)  DJ Mitchell moved the treasurer’s report be accepted as presented.  The motion was seconded and carried.
Parochial Associate Report
The Parochial Associate reported she spent 3 days in Albuquerque at a Church Building Fund meeting last week.  There was a presentation on power, authority and leadership in the church.  She would like all St-Martin-in-the-Fields leaders to see the presentation when it is available online.
There is a deanery meeting Monday evening at Covenant UMC, Arlington.
Tuesday at 2 PM Jonnie Estes will be interred in the Memorial Garden.  Her daughter is donating a tree for the Memorial Garden.  Her funeral will be Sunday, May 5 at 2 PM.
The Province 7 Youth Event plans are working well.  Operation Kindness and Mission Arlington have been added to the projects available to the youth in attendance.
St-Martin-in-the-Fields and a Dallas church are having a youth confirmation retreat together.
Her letter of agreement with St. Martin is due for renewal.  Bishop High intends that clergy in our diocese be paid at a reasonable rate, and St. Martin will be the first with letters of agreement coming up.  The Parochial Associate and Senior Warden will work together on her letter.
Senior Warden’s Report
The Senior Warden read the resignation letter from the Rev Lauren Gough.  She thanked the Vestry for the stipend paid her for the past months, and stated that she no longer needs the help.  She plans to continue working in the parish, to serve at services, teach or assist in whatever capacity is desired.  The Senior Warden stated that her travel expenses will be covered when she is acting in a pastoral capacity for St. Martin.
He read a note from Michele King thanking the Vestry for her new desk and carpet.
He gave an update on the ongoing situation with Tarrant Appraisal District.  They have asked for a firm date construction will start on the land at issue.  Our reply stated that we cannot provide a firm building date due to ongoing legal issues.  Tarrant Appraisal has until April 30 to respond.
He asked that all Vestry members plan to attend the meeting with Bishop High following the 10:30 service and reception for the Bishop and the newly confirrmed on May 5.
Junior Warden’s Report
The Jr Warden announced that he plans to continue utilizing the services of the current cleaning company.
He stated that it is time for the Green Teams to begin their work.  He will assist Joel Walker, chair of the Green Teams, to get teams set up and assigned times.
Doug Watson has agreed to work with the Jr Warden on administration of the Memorial Garden.
The meeting adjourned at 1:50 PM with prayer by Steve Anderson.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
Please note:  Next regular vestry meeting Sunday, May 19, 2013, 12:30 PM, East parish Hall.
 
Christian Education Report
April 2013
RECENT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS
Easter-On Easter Sunday, children and families gathered in the “fields” at St. Martin for a festive egg hunt. Led by the youth of St. Martin’s, this event featured professional photographers Gil and Susan Kleinwechter, a flowering cross and many happy children!
This event showcased the wonderful work of the EYC at St. Martin’s. They diligently met to stuff over 1000 eggs and served as crew leaders, planning the location of the hunt and helping the younger children gather eggs. A new tradition began as Mark Kleinwechter retired his trumpet and passed the “torch” to Michael Stehlik, who regally sounded his trombone to mark the start of the hunt!
Egg Hunt 2014: I am pleased to announce that we will be partnering with Sunny Bunny, a company who provides meaningful employment to those with disabilities and distributes stuffed Easter eggs.
Special thanks to these Vestry Members: Steve and his wife Mary Anderson for the lovely Easter reception, Bob Bess and Becky Snell for helping with clean up and Linda Seeber for her donation of candy for the eggs. Thank you to all that attended!
AWAKE MY SOUL Update: St. Martin’s and St. Elisabeth’s are continuing the work started during Lent, helping a family in need. In addition to the donations of food and household items, this family has received generous donations of furniture and a large anonymous donation that will go towards the repainting and repair of their house. Deacon Cindy Ruiz said that we have restored hope in this family. Due to this ministry, family members are now dedicating themselves to furthering their education with new vigor and purpose. The donation of a computer and printer from Kari Ann Erickson, along with Microsoft Office, donated by Will and Annette Duff, will help their children with schoolwork. Opportunities for our parish to join other churches in the diocese on work projects for this family will begin this Summer and Fall. We will also continue to think of this family during the Christmas season with a special “Angel Tree.”
SPRING/SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS and INFORMATION
Confirmation for Youth and Adults: Adult Confirmation will be led by Mother Lauren Gough for adults wishing to be confirmed, received and those wanting to renew their confirmation vows.
Diocesan Wide Youth Confirmation Retreat: 19 Confirmation candidates, will take part in a Confirmation Retreat on Friday, May 3rd-Saturday, May 4th. We are presenting the Youth with Call on Me, a prayer book for youth and prayer shawls, hand stitched by Vestry member Linda Seeber and her group of St. Martin’s seamstresses! Our congregation will be asked to submit prayers to be given to the adult and youth Confirmation Candidates for the next two weeks. This joyous journey will peak with a visit from Bishop High on Sunday, May 5th, confirming candidates at the 10:30am service. We talked about how blessed we are to have so many young children and youth at St. Martin’s. I am so excited to tell you that he is going to give a sermon for youth and children on this day!
“Living the Questions”:  Living the Questions is an amazing curriculum, sweeping the nation with many Episcopal Churches buzzing as they use this fresh approach to look at who we are as Progressive Christians. In addition, St. Martin in the Fields in London, a leader in Christian Education, has recently offered this series! St. Martin’s in Keller can also be a beacon, providing a source that promises the continuation of our Baptismal covenant through education. Living the Questions is a triumphal exultation of our Episcopal Heritage and other Progressive Christian faiths. This challenging series demands us to use our tradition, scripture and reason to further the kingdom of God in a world where exclusive faith practices are all too common.
More About Living the Questions: This new Adult Sunday Morning Christian Education series was canceled by Father Reynolds due to two recent break-ins and theft and a lack of a security system, necessary to ensure the safety of technology equipment that would be needed for this class. I want to thank Vestry Member Pat Hollifield for leading the research for a new security system. I am pleased to announce that a group of concerned parents have offered to install a security system, free of charge. Members of this group have successfully installed systems at churches before. All that is needed is the purchase of the equipment from COSTCO, Wal-Mart, etc. as Pat Hollifield and the Vestry see fit. I respectfully ask that this be swiftly approved. My work in Christian Education is being drastically affected with what I am able to offer to our growing congregation.
Diocesan Fine Art Gallery: I am seeking five members of the Vestry to help Usher and Greet at this event. Please let me know who can help! What is exciting about this event is the participation of artists and musicians from across the diocese. The Liturgical Calendar becomes a prayerful circle, with powerful works of art and a special Liturgy created for this event. The Bishop has marked his calendar! Please do the same:
Saturday, May 18 from 5-7pm at St. Elisabeth’s Episcopal Church, 5410 Black Oak Lane, Fort Worth.
Meeting with the Bishop: I was delighted to meet with the Bishop on April 12th in the Diocesan Office. He made time to discuss my vision as the Director of Christian Education and had wonderful insights about bringing people to St. Martin’s and our exciting future as we call a new rector. He specifically challenged me to work with the Vestry to create more of an Episcopal identity with St. Martin’s Preschool and Academy. We discussed many ways of doing this and I look forward to meeting with the Senior Warden and Vestry about increasing our efforts. As one of the school chaplains, I have made it my mission to make St. Martin’s church feel like a welcoming place for the families of the school, but with your help I know we can do so much more!
This could be accomplished through:
Mentoring Programs
Coffee with Parents/Education Programs
SAES-Southwest Association of Episcopal Schools
School Board
EfM: Education for Ministry, a program through the University of the South, equips lay-persons to be informed and knowledgeable in their daily ministry. Look for an inquirer’s meeting on May 26th, led by the Reverend Judy Upham, an experienced Fort Worth EfM Mentor.
Labyrinth: “A Path of Prayer” will be a six week series for Wednesday Night Live. Participants will be guided by Mother Amy Haynie in project-based learning, with the final outcome of a labyrinth project behind the Memorial Garden. This project will expand and be the heart of Lent in 2014.
FUN FIELDS FAITH DAY: A morning of fun, faith-filled games marks the end of Sunday School on May 19th. Sunday School resumes in the Fall.
VBS: Many hands will make God’s work come alive to children and their families this June 24th-28th from 9:30am-12:00pm. Look for work nights and many planning sessions as we prepare for our largest outreach ministry of the year. Start thinking of how you will be a part of this ministry!
In His Service,
Corrie Cabes
Director of Christian Education
 

Vestry minutes – February 17, 2013 meeting

by Anika Rinker | Mar 25, 2013 | Vestry Updates

ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING MINUTES
February 17, 2013
Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Linda Seeber, Becky Snell, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Jim Reynolds, Rector; Amy Haynie, Parochial Associate; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present:  Steve Anderson, Gary Grant.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, February 17, 2013, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The Rector opened the meeting with prayer and a meditation on the introduction in the Vestry Resource Guide by the Presiding Bishop.
 
Seating of New Vestry Members
The Rector announced that he has received the resignations of Richard Cabes and Brian West for personal reasons. He reminded Vestry members that the practice of St-Martin-in-the-Fields in such cases is to replace the resigning members with those persons who received the next number of votes in the most recent Parish Annual Meeting. Both Pat Hollifield and Joel Walker have agreed to serve. By general consent Pat Hollifield will serve the 3 year term of Richard Cabes, and Joel Walker will fill the remaining two years of Brian West’s term.
 
Festival in the Fields
Dick Seeber reviewed the expenses and income for Festival in the Fields 2012 (See attached.). A request was made to the Finance Committee for $2000 “seed money” for a Festival in 2013, but the Committee was unable to provide funding. DJ Mitchell moved the Vestry endorse Festival in the Fields for 2013 and advance Festival in the Fields $2000, in hopes we get it back. The motion was seconded and carried.
 
Communication Card Procedures
Flo Lowery distributed revised instructions for handling the communication cards (formerly known as visitor cards) after services. She thanked all those who handle the cards. She will have a copy of the instructions available with the supplies for counting money. She will also be emailing them to all Vestry, ushers and others who might be handling the cards after services.
 
Website Improvement
Susan Kleinwechter provided information on the history and growth of our current website and the procedures necessary to change to a new website as she and Gil propose. The changeover will take about 2 months from beginning to completion. The Senior Warden announced that money is already set aside in the budget for the website, and the expected cost of the change is less than funds budgeted, so additional funding is not needed. After the changeover the Vestry will want to monitor feedback on a regular basis to ensure the website is doing the job needed.
 
Christian Education
Corrie Cabes, CE director, introduced herself to new Vestry members, remarking she is the “go-to” person for Christian Education for children and adults. Her complete report is attached and made a part of these minutes.
 
Treasurer’s Report
The treasurer announced she will be giving the “owners” of line items in the budget financial reports on their area of responsibility on a monthly basis. She will be providing to Michele the monthly comparison of pledge income budgeted to pledge income received for the period for inclusion in the bulletin.
She reviewed the Treasurer’s Report for January. (See attached.) DJ Mitchell moved the Vestry accept the Treasurer’s Report as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
 
Parochial Associate’s Report
The Parochial Associate reported that the Drive Through Ashes on Ash Wednesday was very successful. 41 people came to receive the imposition of ashes in that manner. She requested that if anyone heard any negative comments, they refer the individuals to her directly.
Bishop High has his staff meetings on Thursdays, so the Thursday Holy Eucharist service is being discontinued. During lent she will be doing a book study on Tuesdays, followed by a Eucharist. Friday evenings will have soup supper, Stations of the Cross and a study focused on how to practice religion in the home.
The diocesan court case is still at the Texas Supreme Court level. Their decision, however they rule, will go back to Judge Chupp.
The planned Event for the Youth of Province 7 will be held at University of Dallas July 8-13.
Clergy of the diocese have decided a diocesan middle school event is needed in Summer 2013, patterned after the provincial event.
Rector’s Report
The Rector announced he has appointed the following committees for the coming year:
Finance: Jack Bailey, chair; Bob Bess; Aubrey Hardman, Paula Jefferson and Treasurer Diana Panther. Stewardship: Aubrey Hardman, chair. (Hardman will no longer be working on the website committee.) Building Security: Pat Hollifield, chair.
Radical Hospitality:  Flo Lowery, chair.
Mission and Outreach: Joy Malmgren, chair; Ron Hitchcock, Linda Seeber, and Becky Snell. The Rector is continuing all the work necessary in his personal life to get ready for retirement.
 
Senior Warden’s Report
The Senior Warden shared some of his intentions during the transition time ahead. He wants everyone to feel that he is approachable and that the Vestry all pulls together. He hopes to be the leader the Vestry needs. He suggested Vestry members read especially the section of the Vestry Resource Guide that deals with transitioning to a new Rector. He expects the Search Committee will be larger than some may expect, and that the process will take longer than many expect. He will meet with Bishop High the afternoon of Thursday, February 21. He will have more information after that meeting.
 
Building Security Update
Pat Hollifield reviewed some of the facts that have come to light as he continues investigation to determine our needs for building security monitoring. There is general agreement that all entrances need to be monitored.
 
Sound System Update
Jim Wilson asked that everyone making announcements or acting as VPiC use the microphone when speaking to the congregation. The system continues to be “tweaked” as needed.
 
The Rector encouraged all Vestry members to attend the Diocesan Leadership Conference March 2 at St Luke’s in the Meadow 9 – 3:30.
 
The meeting adjourned at 2:26 PM with prayer by Linda Seeber.
 
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
 
NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, MARCH 17, 2013, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL. LUNCH – JOE PANTHER; CLOSING PRAYER – GARY GRANT.
 
 
Vestry Report for February Big Thanks!
 
-Thanks to the Vestry for your support of Christian Education this past Fall. I am anticipating a busy Spring and your continued participation and support is VITAL to the parish. You are the leadership of the church and when you actively participate in Christian Education, an important message is sent. Your involvement tells each person that walks through our doors that they are important and that their own personal journey of faith is something we are deeply committed to nurturing.
 
How YOU can Help-
-Christian Education does not end when we reach adulthood. Adult Sunday School, “Living the Liturgy,” which digs deeper at the lectionary needs your help! Annette Meyer and Lisa Neilson have been leading a marvelous discussion on Sundays in the Chapel from 9:45am-10:15am. This class will take a break during Lent but will start up again after Easter with a big campaign for the Spring.
 
I am asking for your support to get this class the spotlight it needs to reach adults in the parish. Stop in on Sundays and see what this class is all about. Then TALK about it. Plug it to the parish when you are the Vestry person in charge. I want Adult Ed to be HUGE at St. Martins! This class will move to the West Parish Hall this Spring for more visibility.
 
Spring Program Highlights— Soup, Study and Stations
-Friday Nights in Lent are going to be very busy at St. Martin’s. We will start with a light soup dinner at 6pm in the West Parish Hall. From 6:30pm-7:30pm, classes for adults and children/youth will be offered. Mother Amy Haynie will host a book study on Sabbath in the Suburbs, a call to reclaim holy time for busy families. Lego Mentors Sarah Pannell and Jacob Tiemann will host “Lego Bible Stories: Building the Bible Brick-by-Brick” based on The Brick Bible. The evening will end with Stations of the Cross in the Sanctuary. I would like to see Vestry members each week, greeting everyone and participating in the classes. Want to bake bread? See me.
 
Confirmation
-Taking a different approach to Adult Confirmation and Youth Confirmation. Both classes will offer retreat formats. Youth Confirmation will be led by Mother Amy Haynie and Corrie Cabes at Trinity Episcopal Church in Fort Worth. Adult Confirmation will be held by Mother Lauren Gough.
Lenten Project- AWAKE MY SOUL
We are joining forces with St. Elisabeth’s in Fort Worth to help a family in need. A weekly parish challenge will be issued to donate items ranging from canned goods to school supplies. We will walk a prayerful journey, led by Deacon Henry Penner. This would be a great opportunity for the Vestry to support. Talk to Deacon Penner or Corrie Cabes for more information.
 
 
Fine Arts
On May 18th, a fine arts gallery will be held at St. Elisabeth’s. This gallery, reflecting on the liturgical calendar will draw artists and musicians from across the diocese. Deacon Tracie Middleton (St. Stephen’s), Deacon Cindy Ruiz (St. Elisabeth’s) and Corrie Cabes are leading this project with the help of Susan Kleinwechter and the diocesan communications team.
 
Looking Ahead –
Vacation Bible School, our largest outreach ministry will be held June 24-28th.
EFM-Education For Ministry, through the Seminary of the South is coming to St. Martin’s this Fall