St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church Annual Meeting
January 28, 2024
The Annual Meeting of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church was held January 28, 2024, in the nave at 9:30 AM. Prior to the meeting the Rector reminded those present that during the weeks leading up to the meeting, forums were held on the matters to be covered in the meeting giving parishioners the opportunity to ask any questions they might have. The booklet for the meeting has been available on the website and a printed copy of it is available at the end of each pew for those who want to use it. He advised all members to read the reports from the many ministries of St. Martin’s.
A quorum (10% of the average Sunday attendance during 2023) being present the meeting opened at 9:38 AM with prayer by the Rev. Alan Bentrup, Rector, who chaired the meeting.
Appointment of a Clerk
The Rector appointed Glenda Morehead clerk for the meeting.
Introduction of Current Vestry Members
Current Vestry members present were introduced and acknowledged by a round of applause by the parish members present. Those whose terms end today are Amanda Alvarez, Mary Anderson, Melissa Kurkul, and Becky Snell-Bolerjack. Those going off the Vestry were presented with “St. Augustine’s Prayerbook” by the Rector.
2024 Vestry Election
The nominees for vestry were selected by the Nominating Committee and were elected by acclamation. Those elected to 3-year terms are the following: Carlie Briggs, Shawn Casey, Bob Garrity, and Rebecca Haynes. Eloise Frye was elected to serve the final year of an individual who moved out of the area. Shawn Casey was ill and not present today. The new members were acknowledged by a round of applause.
2025 Delegate Election
As a congregation in the Episcopal Diocese of Texas (EDOT) St. Martin’s is entitled to 4 delegates to the Diocesan Council. Those who are elected serve at the Council gathering in February 2025, 13 months after their election. Christine Gehringer, Keen Haynes, Suzanne Lincoln, and Ed McGlaston were reelected as delegates. The Rector will appoint alternate delegates at a later date.
Senior Warden’s Remarks
Bob Bess thanked everyone who helps to make St. Martin’s continue to be the welcoming active church he and Phyllis found when they first came many years ago. He remarked that Rector Alan Bentrup is a wonderful person to work with and the past year as Senior Warden has been a pleasure. He looks forward to the years to come.
Rector’s Remarks
The Rector thanked Bob Bess for the past year as his Senior Warden and announced that Mary Beth Butler has accepted the position for the coming year. He recommended that all present read the reports of the various ministries and volunteer for those that interest them. He thanked everyone for the love and personal support he and his boys continue to receive from church members.
Youth Minister
The Rector announced Leah Robinson is the newest person on staff – the part-time Youth Minister. She and the youth are already enthusiastically planning their activities and getting them put on the church calendar.
Ordination of the Rev Gavin Tomlin and his New Designation
The Rector invited all present to return to the church for the 6 PM ordination to the priesthood of Curate Gavin Tomlin by the Rt Rev Doyle, bishop of EDOT. As a part of Tomlin’s ordination to the priesthood the Rector is designating him the Associate Rector – meaning that in the absence of the Rector Tomlin can act in his stead. Bentrup stated that they have worked closely since Tomlin came and he believes the young priest will serve well in the position. The announcement received a round of applause.
Commissioning of Vestry
The Rector commissioned the Vestry members for the coming year, and the congregation pledged their support.
Adjournment
Phyllis Bess moved the meeting be adjourned, DJ Mitchell seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 9:55 AM with prayer by the Rev. Ayo Omoniyi, “Keep your hearts and minds open to the opportunities and needs of the world.”
Respectively submitted,
Glenda Morehead, Clerk