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