Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church - Blog

Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church

2020 Faith Fun Events

1/27/2020

Faith Fun Events Calendar for 2020
“The Church that prays and plays together...stays together!”

Sunday, January 19: Annual congregational meeting breakfast
Tuesday, February 25: Fastnacht
Friday, March 13: Pajama Movie Night
Sunday, April 5: Faith Anniversary Luncheon & Easter Egg Hunt
April: Sight and Sound “Jesus” at the Regal Theater (Date TBD)
May: Longwood Gardens (Date TBD)
Sunday, June 7: Faith Family Picnic at Spring Valley Park
Saturday, June 27: Iron Pigs Baseball Game
August: Friday Night Movies in the Parking Lot
Sunday, September 27: Octoberfest at Coffeehour with German themed foods and pumpkin decorating
October: Special Mission Event with Julie Henning
Thursday, November 26: Faith Family Thanksgiving Dinner
November: Electronic Game Night
Saturday, December 12: Advent Celebration Soup Supper with Pollyanna & Crafts

February 2020 Mustard Seed - Announcements

1/27/2020

The 2020 Season of Lent at Faith
Lent is a time when many of us take on devotional and spiritual disciplines.  It is a kind of spiritual reboot as we recall Jesus’ journey to the cross and to resurrection.  In addition to devotional resources for you to use at home here are some ways for us to gather to grow in faith during the season.  All are invited, we hope that you will be part of these offerings.

SUNDAY MORNING ADULT FORUM  9am - HOW DO WE WORSHIP?
We will gather at 9am each Sunday to learn the history and biblical background of the parts of our Sunday morning worship. Where can the prayers be found in the Bible?  Why do we use the prayer we use?  What is changeable and what is not?  Why do we use the readings that we use?   As we learn about liturgy, we hope that our experience of liturgy will be enriched. This 5-week series will be co-led by Pastor G and Rich Hollenbach.

WEDNESDAY EVENING DINNER CHURCH  6:30pm
The season of Lent is rich with story and symbols.  Over dinner and in prayer we will reflect on the Crown of Thorns, the 30 pieces of Silver, water, the Lamb and other images and symbols that appear in the Lenten Gospel texts.

Ash Wednesday Service: February 26th at 7:30pm
Worship with Imposition of Ashes and Communion

The Coffeehour Sponsor List
has been revamped for 2020.  The second Sunday of most months has been designated as a Congregational Coffeehour.  This means that anyone who wants to bring in food can do so to share.  Some months will have a specific theme or a sign-up sheet. This way everyone gets a chance to participate.  Look for some different themes this year too.

This month: February 2: Long-Range Planning and Transportation;
February 9: Congregation Soup and Sandwiches for a Winter’s Day (see the sign up sheet on the Foyer bulletin board);
February 16: Long-Range Planning and Transportation and
February 23: Congregational Cookie Cans.

Lord, when did we see you...?
The 2020 social ministry calendar has been set.  Please be encouraged to participate in those projects which touch your heart!
February's Project is: Valentine cards for homebound
Info: Debbie Hollenbach

Also, we are still collecting Hats, Mittens, Gloves & Scarfs for people at Keystone.

2020 Phone Directories will be available this month
Look for them on the desk in the Foyer on February 16, 2020.

Greeters and Lectors Needed
We are in need ofGreeters (standing at the door and welcoming people as they come in) and Lectors(reading the lessons and psalm.) If you would like to volunteer or would like more information, please see Anna Friedrich.

February 2020 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

1/27/2020

January 15, 2020
Call to Order: Council was called to order by President Debbie Hollenbach. Devotions were led by Debbie Hollenbach from a reading called “The Quiet Life”.

Present: Lauren Allegrezza, Gary Apgar, Dale Foster, Pastor G, Deb Hollenbach, Sharon Hood, Linda Kratz, Missy Prunkel, and Jack Walls (and Denise Bailey)

Approvals & Decisions

Secretary’s Report was approved as written.
Treasurer’s Report: The December (and year end) was reviewed. The endowment funds need to be moved from Operating Income. Denise said that the report will have multiple format changes for 2020.
We reviewed the building use set-up form created by Adam Feldman. Edits were noted by Pastor G and will be forwarded to Adam for changes. This will be added to the “forms” section of our mail slot (when it is created). Janet Hill to forward to all those who use the building.
Church Cancellation Process:
- Council President and Pastor will make decision.
- Debbie will text/call council members, Janet, and Lauren.
  - Council members will then call those on their lists), based on 2019 directory assignments and list provided to council of who wants phone calls.
  - Janet will send out the email to the distribution list.
  - Lauren will post on the Facebook page and website.
- Linda will work with Janet on putting the distribution list in Excel so that others can send out cancellation if necessary.

New Signage for the Church– Dale will work with the Property Team to get quotes, which he will bring to council in February. Must have the sign on order and claim submitted to Selective by March 6 to get balance of insurance claim ($1267.60).
Proposed 2020 Budget – Council reviewed the budget and asked for clarifications as needed.
- Accepted was the proposed addition of $24,170 budget surplus from 2019 in the receipts for 2020.
- The council approved the overall 2020 budget and it will be presented to the congregation at the Annual Meeting.
- Pastor G will work with Janet for the minor layout tweaks and edits before copying for Sunday’s meeting, including adding the investment page.
Worship and Music team as requested approval to cancel the 8 AM service between February 2 and April 5 due to low attendance. The motion was approved.
Security and Armed Intruder Information – Debbie to ask Vince Hill to request a meeting with Montgomery Township officials (Police Chief J. Scott Bendig and Officer Rob Johnson) to meet with council and Property chair (as a starting point) to review procedures and make recommendation. This can happen in March, but not at the same time as the council meeting. Then a committee can be formed to propose a policy.
A new small group (an arm of the Deaconship) is being formed by Sharon Hood with the approval of council. This group will keep in touch with members of our congregation that we may not see often. The deacons and Sharon should meet to define roles, tasks, and procedures.

Annual Meeting:

Breakfast set up on Saturday at 9 AM by Sharon. Linda, and Gary. Breakfast will be served buffet style with coffee and juice on the tables. Please arrive around 8:30 so that we can have food all set up when the congregation arrives so that we can begin the meeting promptly at 9 AM.
Nominations for Council. Mary Lou Foster will present the slate for election and open the floor to nominations. There will be 3 people elected to 3-year terms (slate consists of Jack Walls, Rich Hollenbach, and Adam Feldman) and 1 person to a 1-year term (Anne Hutnyk). If there are additional nominations from the floor, tellers (Janet and nominating team) will pass out the ballots and count them.
We will need to elect a new Nominating team at the Annual Meeting. Debbie will lead the team (C13.02) and ask for two other volunteers during the meeting.
Proposal to change the date of the annual meeting. Meeting falls on a Holiday Weekend and there are often several members of the congregation who are not at the meeting. Propose changing the meeting to the following weekend (4thSunday of January) to avoid this conflict in the future. (bylaws C16.05/ quorum of 25 – C16.06). Pastor G to look into requirements for modifying a bylaw.
Election of New Executive Committee will take place immediately following the 10:30 worship service on Sunday. Pastor G asked council members to prayerfully consider officer participation. A review of rules in constitution- C11.01 /c12.02
Announce cancellation of 8 AM service between February 2 and April 5.

Follow-Ups & FYIs:

Job Descriptions for Staff Members – Completed but still awaiting a few signoffs. Lauren to work with Pastor G on the Pastoral description.
Call Committee Update – meeting this week to review roles, process, etc.
Update on Constitution – To be put on hold until new Synod guru is named.
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous is meeting in the Fellowship Hall on Sundays at 6:30PM.
We will need to have an external audit of our records for 2019. Our MSP information will be noted as contingent upon an External Audit. We will need to budget approx. $2,000 for the audit from our Undesignated Funds. Pastor G to provide CPA contacts recommended by Synod.
Insurance Quote from Church Mutual. Gary, Janet and Adam met with a representative of Church Mutual and walked the property and asked questions. A quote (lower than current policy with Selective), was received, but it is hard to compare the two. Recommend scheduling another meeting with the representative, Pastor G, and other members of the finance team to look at the proposal in detail.

Proposed Acceptable Computer Use Policy -Distributed in November to read. Still pending additions pertaining to PCI Compliant language. Will be ready for February meeting.

Ministry Team Report FYIs:

Christian Education:  Met briefly in December with the current teachers to review the curriculum and the year so far.  Would like to go back to Old Testament after current curriculum is done.

Evangelism:  Met in December 2019 to disperse the funds received from the Korean Church ($3,600). Decided to continue to support our 2 children (Vladimir and Bunga) from Compassion International at $78/month (and to be paid monthly).  Will provide $1,000 to the Penn State Chapter of Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU) and $1,000 for LAMP – a group that provides spiritual witness and faith nurturing communities in remote areas of northern Canada.  Retained $1,600 to be used for local community outreach.

Finance:  See information in Approvals and Decisions section.

Fundraising:

Cookie Can Sale - $259
Remember to buy your GIANT gift cards!

Social Ministry: January/February Projects are two collections for Keystone Opportunity Century: First - the collection of boxes of Valentine Cards for children to distribute to classmates and, second, the collection of hats, gloves, mittens and scarfs. In February, we will provide cards for members to sign and send to our Homebound Congregational Members.

Worship & Music: Met on January 14.

During Lent, we will hold education/training sessions on the different roles within worship during the 9 AM Sunday School hour. This includes Worship/Communion Assistant, Acolyte, Crucifer, Altar Guild, Usher Team, Greeters, etc.
Also, during Lent, we will resume the Wednesday night Dinner Church with the theme of “Symbols of Lent”.

Hospitality and Fellowship: Coffee Hour schedule was set for 2020 and dispersed. The 2ndSunday of most months has been designated a Congregational Coffee Hour. This means that anyone who wants to bring in food can do so to share. Some months will have a specific theme or a sign-up sheet. Schedule has been placed in everyone’s mailbox.

Fellowship Team: Met on January 12. Nancy Gansner resigned as head of the team and Debbie Hollenbach will now lead the team. A list of monthly fellowship opportunities has been determined. Events were targeted to include activities for members of all ages. A full schedule will be distributed at the February meeting. The February event will be a Fastnacht coffee/tea/cocoa and donut evening with entertainment on Tuesday, February 25, 7-8:30 PM.

Miscellaneous:

Lauren Allegrezza provided council with her resignation letter from council and other team leads effective January 31. She is retaining her role as Communication chair.
Liana Schantz has asked Missy about using the building for a scout project. Pastor G will talk with Liana.

Next Meeting: Wednesday, February 5, 2020, at 7:00 PM. Pastor G will have devotions and refreshments.

February 2020 Mustard Seed - Note from Pastor

1/27/2020

Dear people of Faith,
For many years I have participated in programs sponsored by various public libraries like “One City, One Book” or “Everybody Reads”.  The idea is that everyone in a community is invited to read the same book and then meet in groups or on-line forums to discuss the book.   So, I thought, what if we had a “One Congregation, One Book”, but instead of reading a novel we all read the same book of the Bible.   So, here is the plan and the invitation:

Our 2ndreadings for Sunday worship this year include readings from the book of Romans twenty-five times.   So, let’s start there.   For the next 16 weeks (February 2 through May 17) I am inviting everyone to read and reflect on the Book of Romans.  (There are 16 chapters so that is a chapter a week).  As you read, find some folks to talk with about what you have read.  You might create a small group on-line.  Or meet for coffee and talk about what you have read.  Or put something that you are wondering about when you read on our Facebook page so that others can share their thoughts.

I will create a reading guide for each chapter which will be available in the Narthex or it can be emailed to you.

So, people of faith- let’s get reading!   One Congregation, One Book!
What can we learn from Romans?
-Pastor G

January 2020 Mustard Seed - Announcements

1/13/2020

Annual Congregational Meeting & Breakfast - Sunday, January 19 @ 9am

Updated Snow Cancellation Policy:
In order to be more effective at notifying the congregation of cancellations in case of snow, we will be starting a new procedure. A decision will be made by the Pastor
and the Council President regarding any cancellations. In general, the 10:30 Service will not be cancelled prior to Sunday morning but the 8:00AM service may be cancelled as early as Saturday night. The President will send out an email notice of cancellation and initiate a phone call chain with the council members. The Communication Team will also post a notice on our Faith Lutheran Church Website. Currently our Administration Assistant, Janet Hill, is compiling the email addresses of the congregational members who wish to be on the email chain. She is also obtaining phone numbers for people who would prefer a phone call. Please make sure that she has your correct email address and phone number! Just remember, if in doubt, check on the Website!

Social Ministry
Faith has been working with the Keystone Opportunity Center for quite some time, starting
with our participation in the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN). The Mission of the organization, which is headquartered in Souderton but serves communities in both Montgomery and Bucks County is “to help community members in need by offering a comprehensive array of social services that educate, encourage and empower them to become self-sufficient.” The Social Ministry Team decided to provide several opportunities in 2020 to support their programs.

In January (January 1-19), we will be collecting boxes of children’s Valentine Cards. These cards will be distributed to children in their programs. This will allow the children to send Valentine’s Cards to their classmates and friends. Who can’t remember the fun of writing out cards for their classmates and receiving some yourself! We want to make sure that everyone can participate!

In addition, we will be collecting warm hats, gloves, mittens and scarfs during both January and February for the Keystone Opportunity Center. Look for great sales after Christmas and help us to make sure that everyone can be warm this winter season!

All items will be collected in the purple bin under the Coat Rack and taken up to the Center during the months of January and February. Look for more information about the Keystone Opportunity Center and their many programs in the Foyer, starting in January. Questions: Contact Debbie Hollenbach

January 2020 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

1/13/2020

Call to Order: Following an amazing dinner at the home of Sharon Hood, Council was called to order at 8:40 PM and the meeting open with prayer.
Present: Lauren Allegrezza, Gary Apgar, Pastor G, Deb Hollenbach, Sharon Hood, Linda Kratz, Missy Prunkel, and Jack Walls

Approvals, Decisions, and Action Items:

Secretary’s Report: The notes were approved as written.
Treasurer’s Report: The November report has not yet been
submitted. At the end of October, or 85% of the budget year, receipts were at 82% and expenses at 69% with a surplus of $34,642.43. Pastor will reach out to Denise Bailey for various topics to include:
Creating a garden/landscaping account under Property for Marty Boland’s raised funds.
Did funds get dispersed as instructed for the Social Ministry efforts?
Pastor to change % of 2018 housing allowance.
Review employment taxes with Gary.
Christmas bonuses for staff members ($100/staff member)
should be distributed as budgeted.
“Process” – Council reviewed the Process documents
created for new ideas, as well as templates for Team Meetings and Action Requests for Council. Ministry team leads and liaisons will be given the document, which should be used to help create the agenda for the Ministry Team Meetings. It will also be available on the website.
Mail slots for forms: There will be a section of the mail slot designated for forms, to include the Process document, check request form, etc
Snow Cancellation Process:
- Janet Hill will be asked to make sure the directory is updated with emails and phone numbers, in addition to finding out who needs a phone call (that won’t have access to the website or email).
- Starting in January, we will only call those who specifically asked for a phone call – others will receive email or check the website.
- Cancellation of the 8 AM service should be emailed/posted the night before.
- Pastor and council president make the decision to cancel, and the council president will then send out the email and have it posted to the website.
- Debbie will explain the process via the Mustard Seed, bulletin announcements, etc.
The Proposed Acceptable Computer Use Policy needs to have additional security verbiage added to include PCI compliant language. Jack and Rich Hollenbach will work on this.
Linda will send a thank you note to Anna Friedrich and Chris Jones who bought and donated a new microwave oven for the kitchen.
Coffee hour assignments for 2020: Debbie will talk with the Hospitality Team (Anne Hutnyk and Beth Schoening) to get a coffee hour schedule set for 2020. Once established, all team leads and liaisons should be copied, as well as post it in the kitchen.
Sharon will call Doug Renner to set up an Evangelism Team meeting in December to discuss dispersal of funds for 2019. Pastor to see if there is an issue with dispersing the funds collected in 2019 with checks issued in 2020.
Ministry Team leads and liaisons need to provide a brief summary of their team’s efforts in 2019 by January 6 for the annual congregational meeting.

Follow-Ups:

Request from Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous. Approved request in November. Janet is working with them to secure insurance information. They plan to meet Sunday evenings at 6:30 PM for a small group meeting.
PECO/Gas Distribution – Questions were answered, and the contract has been switched to a new distributor, which will be checked regularly.
Sign claim update- Received first check. Remainder will be given to us with the receipt of the new sign. Will set up a team in January to pursue obtaining a new sign. Property Team is attempting to get zoning regulations from the township.
Pastor G and the Council President met with concerned congregation members about the outcome of the ELCA Forum.
MSP and Call Committee – Pastor G met with the new Dean to discuss our congregational needs for a new Pastor. The MSP was updated on-line and will be posted on December 8 for others to read. Note that this is only a small piece if the information that is provided to the Synod. The Call Team will convene in January where their roles and responsibilities will be outlined. A question jar will be made available for the congregation to provide their input to the team. Pastor’s role will be one of procedural guidance.
Staff Job Descriptions have been finalized. All employees will also be receiving instruction on submission of hours for payment.

Ministry Team Report FYIs:

Christian Education: Meeting scheduled for Sunday, December 8, after the service.
Evangelism: In January, the team should meet to discuss any changes that we may want to consider in 2020 (local vs. global ministry, amount of donations, etc.).
Fellowship: Debbie will ask Nancy Gansner to provide any information from her years as the lead of the Fellowship Team. Debbie will call a meeting in January (and request Nancy to call in) so that a new team lead can be named.
Finance: The team will meet on December 16 to finalize the 2020 budget, which will be sent to Council for approval. To date we have 33 pledges totaling $81,320, which is $40,000 under the proposed budget (hoping to receive at least 9 additional pledges based on last year’s pledging.)
Fundraising:
- Cookie Can Sale – Sunday, December 15
- Remember to buy your GIANT gift cards!
Property Team: Met on November 22.
- Discussed the team in overview and the responsibilities of each team member. Will attempt to meet quarterly in the future. Discussed the handling of snow removal for the winter. Have filled in the large potholes and will pay for it out of building repairs in the budget. Furnace Inspection and Fire Alarm Inspections have been performed and have passed. Discussed trying to maintain heat in building at 60 degrees when not in use and will see how that affects the bills this year. Will investigate having a PECO Energy Audit done. Will place blue and white outdoor lights for Advent and add red and green ones for Christmas. Activities in process: Costs for re-keying the doors and distribution of keys, as well as obtaining zoning regulations for the new sign. New – Church offices are without heat; Scattons is coming Friday to assess. Space heaters will be used in the meantime.
Building Use/ Property Management Team:
- This will become its own team (no longer part of Property) and will be the Pastor, Administration Assistant, Council President, and Sexton (pending).

Social Ministry: December Projects

Collection of money to purchase Christmas gifts for 3 students at Martin Luther Silver Springs School. Since church was lightly attended due to weather on the collection day, baskets for donations will be available on December 8 as well. This will also be posted on Facebook and the website.
Angel Tree collection of monies for Giant gift cards to be given to congregational members and others in need. Cards are distributed at the discretion of the Pastor.
Worship & Music: Met on November 12 to plan Advent and Christmas Services. First Sunday of month will be a “High” Service, with Communion at the Rail, and new position of Assisting Minister. Will consolidate the list of worship volunteers into one spreadsheet and provide additional training.
Miscellaneous:
- Be sure to add to the Annual Congregational Meeting agenda the topic of moving the date of the annual meeting, or possibly have two meetings (one for budget and one for the rest.)
- Time and Talents sheets needs to be reviewed and information dispersed to team leads.

Next Meeting: Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at 7:00PM.

January 2020 Mustard Seed - Note from Pastor G

1/13/2020

A friend of mine shared that on New Year’s Day his parents had a tradition of sitting together with the past year’s calendars and appointment books and reviewing the year that was ending. Then, they prayed: in thanksgiving for all of the wonderful things, for strength for the challenges that had arisen, for forgiveness to fall on the places of failure, brokenness and regret, and finally, for what would be in the year that was beginning. I love this tradition. I imagined what that might look like if Faith reviewed the past year and prayed for the year to come?

Surely there would be prayers of thanksgiving: for births, and Baptisms, first Communions, engagements. For enduring friendships and continued commitment and joy in ministry.
And prayers for God’s continued strength as we remember those to whom we have said goodbye as we commended them to God’s eternal care.

Add prayers of gratitude for all of the difficult conversations that we have had. And a prayer for God to continue to guide and direct our study of the Word. May our hearts be truly open.
Prayers of forgiveness...
What might you add?
And what might be our prayer for the New Year? Surely for the Spirit to move in our midst and send us new pastoral leadership. Surely that we are guided to those in need of our care and our ministry. For non-anxious hearts as we face challenging financial realities. Surely for continued joy in worship. What else?

My prayer for Faith is that all of our lives are set in prayer as we begin another year in the Lord. Here are a couple of prayers that I found on-line. I offer them to you with all God’s blessings for 2020.

"A new year is unfolding—like a blossom with petals curled tightly concealing the beauty within. Lord, let this year be filled with the things that are truly good—with the comfort of warmth in our relationships, with the strength to help those who need our help and the humility and openness to accept help from others. As we make our resolutions for the year ahead, let us go forward with great hope that all things can be possible—with Your help and guidance." Amen.
May God make your year a happy one!
Not by shielding you from all sorrows and pain,
But by strengthening you to bear it, as it comes;
Not by making your path easy,
But by making you sturdy to travel any path;
Not by taking hardships from you,
But by taking fear from your heart;
Not by granting you unbroken sunshine,
But by keeping your face bright, even in the shadows;
Not by making your life always pleasant,
But by showing you when people and their causes need you most,
and by making you anxious to be there to help.
God’s love, peace, hope and joy to you for the year ahead. Amen.
--- Pastor G

December Mustard Seed - Announcements

12/2/2019

Christmas Coverdish and Pollyanna
On Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 5:30pm we will be having our Christmas Coverdish/Pollyanna at the
home of Paul and Melissa Prunkel.
Bring a gag gift to exchange (the funnier the better!) and a dish to share. Look for a sign-up sheet on the Foyer bulletin board. Everyone is welcome, whether you bring something or not! Come out and have some holiday fun with your church family on the 7th! More information: Melissa Prunkel.

Kid Event will be December 8, 2019 during coffeehour. The kids will be decorating the coffee cans for the cookie sale on December 15th.

Christmas Coffee Can Sale and Coverdish Luncheon will be held on Sunday, December 15th.
We need lots of volunteers to bake Christmas cookies for our Annual Christmas Coffee Can Sale. Please bring your cookies to the church the week before the 15th or that morning.

Here’s how it works. You buy a holiday decorated empty coffee can for: $5 for small can and $10 for large can and then get to fill it with whatever assortment of cookies will fit into the can. You get only your favorites! So please consider baking and then come out and buy too! It’s our last fundraiser of the year!

Our Annual Coverdish Luncheon will also be on December 15th following the 10:30am worship service. Bring something to share with your church family for a time of fellowship and conversation during the Advent season. More information, see Chris Jones.

The Cantata/Hanging of the Greens and Christmas Tableau will be held on December 22, 2019 during the 10:30am service. Look for a sign-up sheet to help with the service that day.

You can help change the sanctuary over from Advent to Christmas - whether it be changing bows, paraments or candles, putting up banners, setting up the nativity or decorating the tree with our lovely Chrismons. Or if you like to dress up you could be part of the Christmas Tableau where we have costumes for angels, shepherds, wise men and even sheep and, of course, Mary and Joseph. (No speaking required!) Or you can just come and enjoy the magic of the day as we prepare for the birth of Christ.

Lord, when did we see you...?
Please be encouraged to participate in those social ministry projects for 2019 which touch your heart!
November Thanksgiving food items Info: Debbie Hollenbach
December Martin Luther/Silver Springs School (Info: Sharon Hood )
Angel Tree Grocery cards (Info: Nancy Gansner)

Jesus Birthday cards available
There will be several boxes of Jesus Birthday Cards” available for purchase on the Foyer Bulletin Board ledge December 1. Round up the nickel and pay the Pink Penny Can!

December Mustard Seed - Council Notes

11/26/2019

Council Notes November 6, 2019
Present: Lauren Allegrezza, Gary Apgar, Dale Foster, Pastor G, Deb Hollenbach, Sharon Hood, Linda Kratz, Melissa Prunkel, and Jack Walls.

Discussion/Decision Required:

Treasurer’s Report: October’s report is almost complete. Denise noted that we are $4K over budget, but that the $6K from the insurance company on the sign has been received, so we’re actually $2K under. At the end of September, or 75% of the budget year, receipts were at 76% and expenses at 61% with a surplus of $36,660.45.
Endowment: $86,937; VBS Fund: $15,033; Mortgage: $189,824
Farewell gifts for Dean DeWerth – the costs need to be reimbursed to Pastor G. Debbie motioned that the funds be taken from the Bishop’s Convocation registration fund (which is not being used). The motion was passed.
Request from Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous. They request to use a room in our church on Sunday evenings at 6:30 PM for a small group meeting. After discussion on keys and the building use contract, the motion was passed.
- As is standard practice, the group will need to provide an insurance rider and a main contact. They will need to sign the building use contract (which includes times, dates, room set-up, heat/AC, etc. They will receive a key to the building. For their first meeting, a church staff member will need to provide them with an overview of the property.
- With regard to the building use contract, the following modifications need to be made by the administrative assistant: Remove items 7 (moral standard) and 10 (food). Revise Item 11 – Council can designate security if required. Item 18 should be revised to increase rate for non-members (to be discussed later).
Nominating Team should plan to meet soon. Debbie will ask David Bonthu (chair) to set up a meeting, and she will also ask Donna Renner if she will be a back-up in case of illness of another member.
Church Insurance Policy – Janet, Pastor, and Debbie met with our Selective representative to review the renewal of the policy and signed the renewal for 2020. Debbie will provide Gary with a copy and ask that he get a quote for comparable coverage from Church Mutual.
Sign-up Sheet for Council Christmas Dinner on December 4 at 6:30 PM at Sharon’s. This will be handled through email. Church staff and spouses are included.
E-giving: Jack will work with Janet to get a report so that we can see how non-pledge (flower, etc.) giving is noted.

Property Committee:

Sycamore Tree – After the last storm, the dead branches came down, so we are tabling the discussion of professional pruning until Spring.
Plans for Snow Removal- We will renew our contract with current snow plow company (Debbie signed the contract), but we need to find out what product can be used to melt ice on the parking lot without damaging the surface, as this is not covered by the snow removal company.
Keys to the Church – Many people have keys to our church, but there is no record of who has them. Dale will work with Adam to get pricing on rekeying the three doors and getting 20 keys made. If less than $300, re- keying should proceed.
PECO/Gas Distribution – recommendation to change gas distribution supplier. Council reviewed the information provided by Adam. The council needed a few more clarifications – if the responses are in our favor, Adam can go ahead a make the switch. We need to know the contract length and if there are penalties for changing suppliers. We also need to know if the proposed rates are fixed or variable (fixed is preferred).
Cost- savings for Heating – Dale has been asked for the sexton to set up a review from PECO with regard to which is most cost effective – keeping the heat constantly on a lower level and increasing as the building is in use. Or is it more cost effective to have it turn off, then needing to heat to desired temperature with boilers running a full capacity. Dale will also request that the heat is turned on at a lower temp in the smaller rooms so it’s not so hot.
Codes for the Heaters – Dale has been asked to get the codes for the thermostats, so that more than one person has the information. At a minimum, they should be kept in the safe.

Property Team Meeting – Dale has been requested to set up a meeting of all property team members to document who does what within the team (i.e. shoveling, landscaping, etc.)

Thrivent Dollars – Our new process document needs to include parameters for requesting Thrivent Action Team dollars for community events on behalf of Faith Lutheran. A ministry team lead or council must approve the event PRIOR to the request being made for Thrivent dollars. Since our church relies heavily on Thrivent Action Team Dollars, we need to make sure that we are following Thrivent guidelines for their use.

ELCA & MSP:

Pastor started this very important discussion with scripture from 2 Corinthians, v. 4-7. Afterwards, council heard the words of former Bishop Mark Hansen addressing the Synod during a time of great division. Bottom line –issues can only be worked on together at the foot of the cross.
Council then approved that we move forward with the MSP process.
Next steps include:
- Debbie and Pastor meeting with those who have expressed concerns with the ELCA. Transition team will meet on November 12 to incorporate the proposed changes noted by Council. Council will review the MSP again. The on-line MSP will be updated accordingly.
- A printout of the MSP will then be available for members of the church to review.
- Pastor G will write an article for the Mustard Seed explaining the cause for the delays in the MSP process.

Items in Review for November:

Proposed Computer Policy – this was handed out to council to review prior to next month’s meeting. Please relate any questions or concerns to Linda Kratz prior to December 2.
The Process for Getting Things Done - this was handed out to council to review prior to next month’s meeting. Please relate any questions or concerns to Lauren Allegrezza prior to December 2.

Ministry Team Reports:

Pastor’s Report:

Our visitors (Taylor and Caleb) on November 3 have requested to be baptized at Faith.
A reminder that all committee/team meetings held must include invitations to both Pastor G and Debbie Hollenbach (as council president) as outlined in Faith’s Constitution. It is their decision as to whether they attend.
In this time of transition and anxiety, please remember to be kind to one another. We have had some recent actions that have caused additional anxiety and concern, which is the last thing we need as we transition. Please be mindful of others’ feelings and be sure to follow processes that are put in place for very good reasons.

Finance:
Pledge Packets went out on November 3 and pledges will be turned in and consecrated on Sunday, November 17. Finance meeting will then meet to view the pledges and see how it lines up with the proposed budget.

Fundraising:

Scrapbook Fundraiser- $1,030
Wawa Hoagies -$120.00
Holiday Bazaar – November 8-9. Will still be chaired by the
former WELCA team this year.
Cookie Can Sale – Sunday, December 15
Remember to buy your GIANT gift cards!

Property/Building Usage:

Potholes - The largest pothole at the entrance to the church has been filled by the Property Team – thank you!
Sign - We have received the initial check from our insurance
company for the replacement sign. This will be kept aside until we come to an agreement on a new sign. The LED sign from the Willows is no longer available. A team needs to be formed to decide on the sign requirements and investigate township zoning information. The temporary sign will be in place shortly (Thanks, Adam).

Social Ministry:
November project is collection of Quick Bread mixes for Manna on Main Street.
Met on September 17 and set up schedule of projects for 2020 and discussed several names of congregation members to approach for membership on the committee.

Worship & Music:
Meeting next week to finalize plans for Advent and Christmas.

Mutual Ministry:
Pastor G and Debbie met with Janet and Admin to discuss their duties. The Admin and Sexton descriptions were read to council. Since both hold dual roles (employee and committee members), both have been requested to log their hours on their paid positions. The organist/choir director job description is forthcoming. Pastor will be getting them signed by the employees.

Miscellaneous: Lower Montgomery Conference assembly was Oct. 8. Pastor G, Gary, and Debbie attended. Pastor Bryan Penman was elected to the office of Dean. We will be working with him during the Call Process. We presented a gift of $100 gift card to the William Penn Inn, a $10 Giant Gift Card and a Prayer Shall to outgoing Dean Julie DeWerth. A thank you card is on the bulletin board downstairs.

Next Meeting: December 4 Christmas Dinner at Sharon’s

December Mustard Seed - Note from Pastor G

11/26/2019

While we are still eating Thanksgiving leftovers, the short but deeply meaningful season of Advent begins. For four weeks the church prepares for the birth of Jesus. To be sure some of the preparation is physical. A tree will be put up, decorations taken out, and lights will be hung. But it is the spiritual preparation of the season that is a welcome antidote to the over-busy bustle of malls, parties, and other holiday events that crowd December days.

How will you prepare your heart and Spirit to retell the story of God Immanuel born into the world, just as it is- full of hope, but beset by challenges. Here are some ideas of how to count the days until Christmas in ways that deepen the Advent plea, “Stir up your power, and Come!” I hope you will find one (or more) that will make this season meaningful and will bring you to Christmas with a spirit open to the love, hope, peace and joy, born into the world- our savior, Jesus.

1) Place an Advent wreath (any 4 candles will do!) in a prominent place in your home. Choose a time each day to light it. One candle the first week adding a candle each week. Use the weekly devotions attached to the newsletter (provided by the American Bible Society) or read one chapter of the Gospel of Luke each day as you light the wreath. This will take you through the entire Gospel and it will link Jesus birth to the resurrection reminding you of the reason Jesus was born.

2) Create a “reverse Advent Wreath”. Purchase or make an advent calendar with a religious theme. Get a large box or basket (if you have kids, decorating the box is a fun way to teach them about the season!) Each day when you open a new window and read the verse inside, add a non-perishable food item or household or hygiene need in the basket. On December 26th deliver the box to a local food cupboard. (A variation with kids is for them to put a toy they have outgrown, that is still in good condition, each day.)

3) Read a Christmas themed book each day.(see the list also attached to this newsletter.)

4) Create a prayer discipline. Set aside a time every day. Read a reflect on a psalm, add one extra minute of prayer for each day.

These are some ideas. There are many more on the internet or create your own. What is important is taking deliberate time during these 24 days to mindfully get ready. What a joyful Christmas will follow!

--- Pastor G