by Alan Bentrup | Feb 24, 2015 | Vestry Updates
ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
January 18, 2015
Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Gil Kleinwechter, Elizabeth Mason, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer.
Not present: Cyndy Sulots; Doug Watson, treasurer in training.
A called meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, January 18, 2015, at 12:10 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting was called for the purpose of considering the church budget for 2015. The meeting opened with prayer by Senior Warden Bob Bess.
The Treasurer presented the proposed budget for St. Martin-in-the-Fields for 2015, and reviewed its details. The proposed budget is attached to and hereby made a part of these minutes. DJ Mitchell moved the proposed 2015 budget be approved as presented. Elizabeth Mason seconded the motion. The budget was approved unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 12:45 PM with prayer by DJ Mitchell.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT VESTRY MEETING A CALLED MEETING OF THE CONTINUING AND NEW VESTRY MEMBERS IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE PARISH ANNUAL MEETING, JANUARY 25, 2015. LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED.
NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.
by Alan Bentrup | Feb 24, 2015 | Vestry Updates
ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
December 21, 2014
Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, Gil Kleinwechter, Elizabeth Mason, DJ Mitchell, Joe Panther, Cyndy Sulots, Joel Walker, Jim Wilson; Glenda Morehead, Clerk; Diana Panther, Treasurer; Doug Watson, treasurer in training.
Not present: Pat Hollifield.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, December 21, 2014, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting opened with prayer by the Senior Warden.
Minutes of the November 9 and November 16, 2014, meetings were approved as distributed.
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal School
The written report of Karrie Marling, chair of the School Board is attached and made a part of these minutes. The Vestry endorsed the plan to use the same report with necessary editing as the school’s report to the Parish Annual Meeting.
Communications Committee
Susan Kleinwechter announced that the website will be refreshed as soon as possible.
Diocesan Information
Susan Kleinwechter has been named one of the 2 lay representatives of the Eastern Deanery to the diocesan Executive Council.
Stewardship
Aubrey Hardman reported that the total pledged to date for 2015 is $339,000.00. 7 parishioners have increased their pledges since Scot’s announcement. There are about 30 new pledges for 2015 totaling $61,000.00. 10 families who have not yet pledged for 2015 will be contacted by members of the Finance Committee. Previous pledges by those 10 total around $50,000.00.
Playground Usage Policy
DJ Mitchell distributed copies of the proposed Playground Usage Policy for consideration by the Vestry. Gil Kleinwechter moved the policy with changes recommended by Vestry members be approved. The motion was seconded and the policy was adopted.
Nominating Committee Report
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.
Treasurer’s Report and Budget Update
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. The Rev. Scot 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.
Senior Warden’s Report
Introduction of New Rector: 147 persons were present for the first service celebrated at St. Martin-in-the-Fields by the Rev. Scot McComas on Saturday, December 13, 2014. The party which followed gave parishioners the opportunity to chat with McComas as they enjoyed the food prepared by Kathy Watson and her committee.
In contact with McComas: The Senior Warden is in frequent communication with the incoming Rector during this time leading up to his assuming his duties officially February 9, 2015.
Junior Warden’s Report
Eagle Scout Project Update: Jr Warden Joe Panther continues his supervision of the Eagle Scout Project expected to be completed by the end of February, weather permitting.
Floor Treatment: The floors are scheduled to be polished on December 31, during school break.
Thank You to Panther: As Panther completes his years of Vestry service, the Vestry thanked him for all his work as Jr Warden. He was also thanked for delivering Angel Tree gifts to A Plus Academy as well as serving as Santa at the St. Martin School Christmas Party.
Building Incursion Ramifications
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.
Traditional Gifts Approved
DJ Mitchell moved the Vestry approve gifts for the deacon and staff of St. Martin-in-the-Fields using the script program. as has been the practice in recent years. The motion was seconded and carried.
Housing Allowance Resolution Passed
Jim Wilson moved the Vestry adopt the following resolution
Whereas the Reverend Scot McComas, an ordained minister, is to be employed to serve St.-Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church as Rector beginning February 9, 2015; 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 Reverend Scot McComas for the calendar year 2015, 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 carried and the resolution was adopted.
Paschal Candle Gift Approved
Jim Wilson moved the Vestry vote to accept the gift of a brass candle stand dedicated for use with the Paschal Candle. The motion was seconded and carried.
The meeting adjourned at 2:04 PM with prayer by Joel Walker.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
by Anika Rinker | Jan 22, 2015 | News, Vestry Updates
The 2014 Annual Parish Report is provided in preparation for our Annual Parish Meeting on January 25, 2015. It contains the agenda for the annual parish meeting, minutes of the annual meeting in 2014, nominees for Vestry and diocesan Convention, financial reports and budget, and other reports.
Read or download this 1.5 MB, 43-page PDF: 2014 Annual Report (UPDATED 14:33pm January 22 to correct an omission)
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 Anika Rinker | Jan 8, 2015 | Vestry Updates
ST. MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS VESTRY MEETING
November 16, 2014
Present: Bob Bess, Annette Duff, 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; Doug Watson, treasurer in training.
Not present: Bob Blomstrom, Aubrey Hardman, Pat Hollifield.
A regular meeting of the Vestry of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held Sunday, November 16, 2014, at 12:30 PM in the East Parish Hall. The meeting opened with prayer by the Clerk.
Scout Presentation
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 provided drawings and photos of the 3 options he asked the Vestry to consider. His family plans to provide large urns as part of the decorations planned. Nicolas plans to have the project completed no later than the end of February 2015, weather permitting. Joe Panther moved the Vestry approve his proceeding with his plan as designed (option B). The motion was seconded and carried.
Minutes of the October 19, 2014, meeting were approved as distributed.
Resignation of Bob Blomstrom
The Senior Warden announced that he has received an email from Bob Blomstrom resigning from the Vestry, effective immediately, and stating that he and his family are leaving St. Martin-in-the-Fields at this time. The Senior Warden will contact Blomstrom to thank him for his service to the parish and expressing the hope that they find peace and opportunities for service in a new church home.
Christian Education Report
The written report of Corrie Cabes, Children and Youth Minister, is attached and made a part of these minutes.
Communications Committee
Annette Duff reported that all the Advent information is already available on the parish website. The person who had planned to be responsible for the school website is unable to do so, and responsibility has returned to the Communications Committee.
Diocesan Information
At diocesan convention which ended yesterday, Joel Walker was elected to the Standing Committee and Becky Snell was elected to the Disciplinary Board. In the stewardship information presented it was stated that whereas most churches think in terms of “the average pledged”, the better picture comes from the determination of “the median pledged.” The bishop stressed that, contrary to rumors, there are no plans for the Diocese of Fort Worth to merge with the Diocese of Texas.
Playground Usage Policy
DJ Mitchell announced that he is in the process of formulating the draft Playground Usage Policy and will have it ready for consideration by the Vestry at the December regular meeting.
Nominating Committee Report
The Senior Warden reported that to date Bob Bess, Charles Busey, Mev Matulevich, Chris Mullaney and Gary Wilkinson have agreed to stand as candidates for election to the vestry. With the resignation of Bob Blomstrom 5 new vestry members will need to be elected. No information is available on candidates for diocesan delegates. New vestry members and diocesan delegates will be elected at the Annual Parish Meeting January 25, 2015.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer reviewed the monthly financial reports. (See attached.) DJ Mitchell moved the treasurer’s reports be accepted as presented. The motion was seconded and carried.
Senior Warden’s Report
Search Update: 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. If negotiations are successful, plans will be made to bring the new rector to St. Martin to serve as supply priest for the 5 PM service on Saturday, December 13, with a celebration party to follow.
Supply Priest Plans: The Rev. Jesse Smith and the Rev. Gayland Pool will continue to serve as our supply priests, at least through November. The Rev. William Winston will do all Christmas Eve services with the Rev. Henry Penner preaching at the 5 PM service, Winston preaching at the 8:30 service and Annette Mayer preaching at the 10:30.
Junior Warden’s Report
The Jr Warden will maintain supervision of the Eagle Scout project by Nicolas Chasteler.
Search Prayer Changed
Jim Wilson proposed some wording changes in the Search for a New Rector prayer used in bulletins and services. The Vestry adopted the proposed changes.
The meeting adjourned at 1:33 PM with prayer by DJ Mitchell.
Respectfully submitted,
Glenda Morehead
Clerk
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT REGULAR VESTRY MEETING SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21, 12:30 PM, EAST PARISH HALL.
Children and Youth Minister/School Chaplain Report
November 2014
Service 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
November 2014-102 Sack Lunches
EYC (Episcopal Youth Community)
Wednesday night meetings returned on November 12! Teens are invited for fun, prayer and fellowship each Wednesday night from 7-8pm in the EYC room.
EYC will continue to meet on every second Sunday for Service Sunday (sack lunches for UGM). Teens meet on the fourth Sunday for Sunday Funday, a time for fun and fellowship. Teens will have opportunities to work closely with Union Gospel Mission throughout the year.
The EYC will bring a Godly Play story to life on Sunday, January 4 during the family worship service at 10:30am. Tens will describe the journey to Bethlehem in a new way.
Sunday School
Nursery, children and teens began a Bible based curriculum this fall and have walked through the garden of Eden, jumped onboard the Ark, and walked with Sarah and Abraham in the desert. The stories continue this winter and spring! It’s great to see the children relate Bible truths to their daily lives.
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 at the Advent Fest on November 30 and at the 5pm Christmas Eve family service.
Advent Fest
An Advent Festival will be held on Sunday, November 30 after the 10:30am service in the large parish hall. Everyone is invited to this free event featuring Advent resources, wreath making station, caroling and more!
Online Advent Resources
Lots of new Advent resources are already on the St. Martin’s website! There’s something for everyone, young and old, from printable calendars, tween and teen resources (d365.org) and a daily subscription to the online Advent Word from Society of St. John the Evangelist (SSJE). These Advent resources are great for busy people to connect, take a moment and refocus as we look towards Christmas.
Check it out at: stmartininthefields.org/advent-resources-2014/
Epiphany Pageant
The Epiphany pageant is in full swing! Casting started November 9 and it is always a joy to see the precious children of St. Martins bring the story of Jesus’ birth to life. Join us on Saturday, January 3 at the 5pm service to experience the Epiphany Pageant.
St. Martin’s Episcopal School Chaplain Minute
The students at St. Martin’s are learning short liturgical lessons and it is exciting to see the Pre-K class carry the chapel cross into the sanctuary to start Chapel each day. St. Martin’s Episcopal Preschool has also partnered with outreach efforts at St. Martin’s. For the month of November, the students have brought coats into chapel for blessings and to pray for those who will receive coats. St. Martin even visited last week, inspiring students to give and share! Thanks to Annette Duff for being an excellent St. Martin!
Blessings,
Corrie Cabes
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.
