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June 2021 Mustard Seed - Note from Council Secretary & Call Committee Chair

5/29/2021

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Hello Faith Family,
This is Gail Achilles, staying connected straight from the Bible and my Jesus loving heart!  I want to wish all the Fathers a wonderful, Happy Father’s Day.  A special shout out and love to my husband and son who are fabulous fathers.  My Father is in Heaven (I like to believe).  He left this world too young; he was only 60.  Happy Father’s Day Dad; I love you so much.  I also want to thank my Father for loving me and sharing the history of Jesus with me and raising me with a strong foundation of faith in our Lord. 
 
My Dad’s life on earth may have been less than perfect, but he had a perfect love for Jesus, for which I am eternally grateful.  From this Daughter’s viewpoint, all Father figures are so importantin shaping the minds and hearts of your loved ones and all the people you encounter here on your time on earth.  Fathers, your children are a gift from God; let His love begin with you.
 
As we read our bible we learn over and over again the great love that God has for all His children!  For instance, in 1 John 4:9-11 NIV  “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.  This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”   Romans 8:28 tells us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  From Deuteronomy 6 in the Old Testament, we learn the Lord’s commandments and God tells us in verses 5-9: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.” 
 
Think about this: there is chaos in your home when your children break the rules. There is chaos in the schools when the students break the rules.  There is chaos in our communities when we break the rules.  Well, there is chaos in the world, when we break our Creator’s laws. We can reason then if we do not know God, then we do not know love, and if we do not love then we are going to have chaos in our world.   Why in the name of Jesus (and I mean that as a prayer) do so many of us forget to put God first in our lives?  Friends, it is not me asking your hearts and minds to open, it is our creator God. God gives us the answer so clearly how to live peacefully among one another.  If we as God’s children follow God’s laws for us, we will know peace and love in our world and in Heaven eternally.    
 
Let us end in prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your Love.  We pray that our hearts are open to You and that we will spread Your Word to all through our words and actions.  Also, on this Father’s Day, bless and fill all our Father figures with the wisdom of your Holy Spirit.  We ask this in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen.
 
Thank you and May God be with you!
 
--Gail Achilles, Council Secretary & Call Committee Chair
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May 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

5/4/2021

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Annual Church Family Picnic
11am to 2 pm
Sunday, June 6 -  Rain or Shine!
 
On Sunday, June 6thright after the 9:30am worship service we are planning on having the Annual Church Picnic at Spring Valley Park. This year we will be providing all the food.  We’ll have designated cooks barbecuing hot dogs and burgers.  We will also be providing all the sides and desserts funded by a Thrivent Action Team card.  All you need to bring is a lawn chair and a mask.  We only ask that you let us know if you are planning to attend so that we have enough food.  It will be nice to be outdoors and get back to fellowshipping with our brothers and sisters in Christ in a safe environment.  See you on the 6th.

Technology Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers who are willing to learn and help with the technology behind our virtual and in-person worship services.  Each week we host our Zoom meeting for worship as well as running the video cameras and sound system in the sanctuary.  Over the past year we have refined this process and its running very smoothly now.  But its being managed by the same few people every week and we are looking to train others to share in this responsibility.  We have engaged a professional to help review our processes and to provide training and want to have other volunteers participate. Please contact Rich Hollenbach if you are interested.

Faith’s Adult Forum
continues their Bible study on Paul’s letter to the Ephesians through the month of May. They meet on Zoom at 9:00am on Sundays and are led by Rich Hollenbach. Please email Janet for the Zoom link. 
All are welcome!  Hope to see you there!
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May 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

5/4/2021

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Council Notes |  April 7, 2021
 
Council was called to order by President Rich Hollenbach.  Rich lead devotions on a healthy church. Minutes of the March 3rdregular council meeting was approved as written.
 
Treasurer’s Report: Council received the March 2021 treasurer’s report.  With year-to-date income at $67,902.14 (48%) and operating expenses at $27,623.16 (18%) we have a $40,278.98 surplus.
 
President’s Report: We continue to evolve our worship services and with our new computer we have hosted the Zoom sessions from the church for our Holy Week services.  In- person attendance was up and the Easter Service was a great celebration.  We continue have issues with the music which we will also be working on to improve.
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With Pastor Mary ending her time as our Designated (Bridge) Pastor, the next few months will be filled with having different worship service formats and supply pastors.  Rich will continue to work with our Synod Conference Dean, Pastor Bryan Penman.
 
Pastor’s Report: 
Pastor Mary commented on how we managed to accomplish so many things with Worship,our Deacons, and Lay persons, and Bible Studies through this challenging year, and she thanked all.  She applauded the work of Adam Feldman, Janet Hill, Vince Hill and Rich Hollenbach for carrying out the complex tech and in-person arrangements for worship during Holy Week and Easter – it was an incredible achievement of expertise and coordination!

Finally, she said thanks to all the lay leaders and members who’ve been such an integral part of her time serving as Faith’s designated pastor. While it’s been a time none of us could have possibly imagined a year ago, she is much blessed by all the learning and innovation that this last year has brought her way.  She wished us all many blessings as we continue our journey in the future.  Council members gave her words of appreciation and thanks and best wishes in her retirement.  
 
Ministry Team Reports:
 
Call Committee:
President Rich Hollenbach reported the following after his meeting with Pastor Penman:
   “I talked to him 2 weeks ago following Pastor Mary's announcement.  There are still no candidates that line up with our MSP and that we can afford.  We really won't share a pastor equally as they can only have one call, but they would contract out to another congregation for part of the time.  Finding another congregation that is local to us plus aligning with our more conservative position is making it all the harder.  He did recommend we go back and look at our finances to see if we can reprioritize our spending and possibly look at full time compensation.
   The next few months following Easter are going to be challenging as we have to find supply pastors and potentially have videotaped sermons from other pastors.  Keep praying that we find the right pastor and to get through this challenging time.”

   The call committee will meet Tuesday, April 13, at 7:30 pm by zoom to discuss these issues per Gail Achilles, Chair, Faith Lutheran Church Call Committee.  
 
  • Christian Education: Missy informed us that the Christian Education team made the decision to hold off having VBS in 2021 due to uncertainty with COVID challenges, what our pastoral role would look like, and all the necessary technology.  Missy also reported that Wednesday (Sunday) Bible school will hold 3 more Wednesday sessions ending in April 2021 and reopen in September 2021.  Coordination of plans will begin this month for our Church Picnic planned for 6thJune at Spring Valley Park.  Our Monday night Bible study will be starting a new Bible Studies series titled “Awakening to a Grand New Day” by Sheila Walsh.  Adult Forum led by Rich Hollenbach will be covering Ephesians starting this Sunday, April 11 at 9am.
  • Communications:Jack proposed that we get more actively involved on Facebook and other social media to promote outreach to the community about Faith Lutheran Church programs and our people.  Pastor Mary suggested we put a link on our personal Facebook page, and that we can send out email to Faith Lutheran Church members to share our Facebook page.
  • Finance: The Finance Team sent the Following recommendations to the Special Funds Team:
    • Request to fund the new computer for the Sanctuary to run Zoom as well as the projector for Worship.  Cost of $1529 to come from the Piligian Memorial (designated to “spread the Word.”)
    • Request for the cost of installation of Backflow Assembly required by the Water Authority (cost of $885) to come from the Mayer Bequest (designed for Emergency needs.)
    • Pending approval by the congregation.  To transfer $22,000 from the Endowment Fund to the Univest Checking account to cover the money designed in the Heating AC Fund.  This will be used to cover the down payment for the new furnaces for the Fellowship Hall.
Special Funds approved the above on 3/11/21 and the Congregation approved the purchase of the new furnaces for the Fellowship Hall on 3/21/21.
    Rich informed council that he got a report from Gary Apgar that the PPP forgiveness loan is still backlogged but not to worry, the loan will be forgiven.  
  • Fundraising: Hoagie sale is being put on hold for now due to COVID challenges. Sharon stated that Linda Kratz would like to step down as Chair.  Rich suggested that the fundraising team come up with a list of nominees and contact them to find a new Chair of Fundraising.
  • Health: Janet Hill is sending out emails to notify where church members can go to get COVID vaccine.  
  • Property Team:
    • Sign Replacement – coming from Fast Signs Company.  Rich mentioned to stay on top of the cost of sign, since the cost may be lower than what was quoted to the insurance company, so we need to make sure that balances out.
    • New Furnaces – Landis is waiting on the ordered equipment to complete installation of furnaces; but assured council that this work should be done by May.
    • Backflow preventer has been installed.
    • Vince reminded council that April 17, 9 to noon, is Spring Cleaning Day; donuts will be on hand for all you good hearted hard workers.  
  • Shepherding: Easter cards were mailed to the congregation.  Sharon mentioned that even Kelly Kratz, who lives in Japan, received her card. 
  • Stewardship: After service, we can show videos to the congregation to socialize the electronic giving.
  • Transportation: Dale is still seeing to all transportation to meet our congregation’s needs.
  • Worship & Music:Working on April & May schedule for worship. Rich informed us that everything (zoom, worship, music) was run from church since Palm Sunday Service. There will be a Synod video worship service used for this Sunday, April 11.  Pastor Ainslie will be leading service every third Sunday until June 2021.  
 
OLD BUSINESS 
  • Constitution Update: Synod updates have been incorporated.  Pastor Mary apologized that it was not ready by our March 21stcongregational meeting.  Linda Kratz went in and put it altogether and will get with Rich and then Council needs to approve, then the Synod, and then the Constitution can be share with the congregation.  
  • Audit Team: We need to put together a team to perform an internal audit of our finances for CY2020.  Sharon will guide the audit team. 
 
NEW BUSINESS
  • Increasing the in-person attendancemaximum to 42 in the church building for worship.  A motion was made and seconded and all council members voted in favor.  (We had 29 at Easter.)
  • Our Korean congregationhas been asking about returning for in-person worship.  We need to layout ground rules:  Vince will write up a draft of rules for the Korean congregation to follow.  We talked about no use of Fellowship Hall and kitchen; no food allowed.   Vince suggested that they can use our screen but not the projector.  Vince will draft up all the stipulations and email these ground rules to council for our approval.  After council’s approval, Janet Hill will notify the Shalom Korean Presbyterian Church.  We took a vote on this process and that if their church agrees to the ground rules that they can come back in May of 2021.  A motion was made and seconded and all council members voted in favor. (Note:  Shalom Korean Presbyterian Church had been paying $300.00 a month rent in the past).
 
Next Meeting:  Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at 7:00 PM. Will be a hybrid meeting.  Devotions will be led by Dale.
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May 2021 Mustard Seed - Note from Call Committee Chair

5/4/2021

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Hello my Church Family:

I am Gail Achilles and am grateful for this opportunity to speak to you today.  I walked into Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church seven years ago and found my home where the word of Jesus is spoken, but not just from the pulpit but each and every one of you touched me by your love for Jesus, and your actions shine His light.   I hope you share the joy that I have that we have a good strong building to worship in, but more importantly a strong faith-based congregation--we are Family.  Just think how blessed we are that we are all God’s children and that no matter what we are doing and where we are in this world we are all connected through Him, our Creator, who loves us and is ever present. 

This message is focused on Prayer.  There are many references to prayer throughout the Bible. One that is very helpful can be found in Phillippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.”  

In my youth, I can remember praying to God at specific times; there was a certain prayer to thank God before meals and there was a prayer to say before bedtime asking God to save our souls.  The only other times I can remember praying in my younger years were at church and whenever I felt fearful.

Once in my tweens, I found myself on an amusement park ride that went high into the sky and spun like a spinning top.  I prayed my little heart out and this got me through without passing out.  Then in my twenties, while on a plane ride, I made it through a lightning storm praying to God.  In both situations, I was comforted by God’s presence. 

As I went through my adulthood, I unconsciously put things of this earth before God.  Many days passed where God was not even a thought.  I can vividly remember the exact incident that I turned to God in prayer, took his hand, and never let Him go again.  I was in my late thirties, and I was in a very dark place.   I was trying to be a good wife and mother and to keep a peaceful household.  I thought I could control everything! 

Well one sleepless night, I was shivering uncontrollably and my head felt like it was about to pop having no solution in mind to help with my family’s ongoing problems.  Then, I began to pray.  I had a heart to heart with God, right there in my bedroom.  It was as though I felt God’s hands reaching out to take all my worries and concerns from me, and as if he was asking me to trust in His love. So I did and then, my body became still, my head seemed calm, and I fell into a peaceful sleep.  From that day on, the answers came to help my family. 

From my experience, I am convinced that God is always present and I am never alone and I am loved.  He had been waiting for His daughter, Gail, to reach out and pull His spirit into my being.  In my daily life since, I walk through the word of God and talk to Him, and my life here on earth is blessed.  Of course, there are hard times, like what we are going through in this current pandemic and our search to find a Pastor to lead us, but I am comforted to know that I have God to lean on.  I am in His hands and that is where I plan to stay.

As you read in the New Testament of the Bible, you will find that Jesus prayed to Our Father continually during His time on Earth.  He trusted God’s love for us.  Prayer is powerful.  Talk to God, praise Him, thank Him, get angry with Him.  God can take it and you will get your answers.  They may not be the answers you were envisioning and wishing for, but they will be according to His plan, where you will find your comfort and peace.  We, all of us, need to pray for patience and know that we have God to lead us, His Son Jesus, our Savior, and His Holy Spirit!

Please pray along with me the prayer that Jesus taught us as written in Matthew, Chapter 6, verses 9-13:   
“Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.”  Amen

Thank you and May God be with you!
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April 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcement

3/25/2021

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Technology Volunteers
We are looking for a few volunteers who are willing to learn and help with the technology behind our virtual and in-person worship services.  Each week we host our Zoom meeting for worship as well as running the video cameras and sound system in the sanctuary.  Over the past year we have refined this process and its running very smoothly now.  But its being managed by the same few people every week and we are looking to train others to share in this responsibility.  We have engaged a professional to help review our processes and to provide training and want to have other volunteers participate.  Please contact Rich Hollenbach if you are interested.

Faith’s Adult Forum
Adult Forum continues their Bible study on Sunday, April 11, 2021.  They meet on Zoom at 9:00am on Sundays and are led by Rich Hollenbach.  For Zoom info, please email Janet: janetatfaith@verizon.net
All are welcome!  Hope to see you there!


Sunday School on Wednesdays at 4:30pm for 30 to 45 minutes!   
All children are invited to join Wednesday “Sunday” School. During this Spring session we will be exploring Jesus’ ministry leading up to Easter and beyond and having some fun along the way. For Zoom info, please email Janet: janetatfaith@verizon.net
 
We look forward to this new way to share the love of Jesus with so many more families in their homes via zoom! 
 
    For more information see, Melissa Prunkel, Education Leader


AN OPPORTUNITY TO HELP OUR CHURCH REMAIN STRONG
In the spirit of making it easier on each member and family to give to our great church, we are asking each of you to consider giving via the E-GIVING method going forward.  The collective power of E-Giving has been proven to help churches across the country raise larger funds, but more importantly e-giving helps our Council Leadership be able to predict the financial healthof our church.  Nothing could be more importantas the Faith Evangelical Call Committee and Leadership Council makes the decision to embrace a future leader for this congregation.  We need your help to solidify our strong financial foundation.
The good news is E-giving is EASY.  Simply enroll by going to the Faith Evangelical website www.faithmontgomeryville.org and then click on the E-giving button         
 
Jack Walls is available via cell phone (484) 433-7420 or email jackwalls36@gmail.com to help get you set up via the E-Giving Vanco™process.  Thank you for all that you do for Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church.


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April 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

3/25/2021

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Council Minutes                            March 3, 2021
Council was called to order by President Rich Hollenbach.  Gail lead devotions on a healthy church.  Minutes of the February 3rd regular council meeting was approved as written.
 
Treasurer’s Report: The income for February was $6,386.58, expense $7,448.97 for a monthly deficit of $1,062.39. 
Denise stated there are 3 reports this month.  Balance sheet designated for memorial purposes noted. Amazon Smile Earnings came in and are shown in profit and loss report.  Adam pointed out that on the Budget vs. actuals report the Budget Pledge Amount should read $85,338 (not $84,818) and the year surplus should read $35,516.76.  Denise will make corrections as noted.  The treasurer’s report was approved with the corrections.
 
President’s Report: While we are still waiting to find a new pastor to call and won’t be making huge changes, there are a few items we need to address in 2021.  Pastor Mary is helping to update our constitution which is very out of date.  The property team is working to update our aging HVAC systems.  And we need to replace our sign on Cowpath Rd.  And finally, we need to work out the more permanent processes for video and Zoom with our hybrid worship services including church owned equipment and training of additional folks.
 
Pastor’s Report: At the Worship & Music Team meeting on Feb. 28ththe $1,000 grant Faith received from the SEPA Synod the “Forward Together in Faith” program was discussed. Approximately $450 of that grant is allocated to training congregation members to use & manage the technology available for worship and other meetings & programming; the remaining funds can be used to purchase additional equipment – in the grant most of it was for lighting. However, these numbers are flexible to some extent as long as we notify the Synod about how we’re intending to spend the funds.
Pastor Mary recently spoke to Linda Kratz regarding the progress of the Constitution and reported that it is a time-consuming process but it is moving forward.  Pastor Mary also announced that she will be ending her role as Designated Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church on Easter Sunday.  She plans to work with Worship and Music on coverage.  Rich reached out to Pastor Penman for coverage, and Rich will be meeting with him soon.  Rich is preaching on Palm Sunday and Pastor Ainslee will cover the third Sunday of the month until Easter.  
 
Ministry Team Reports:
 
Call Committee:Gail emailed Pastor Bryan Penman on 2-17-21 to learn if we had any pastoral candidates to interview in the near future; Pastor Penman replied that there was a Dean’s meeting coming up the following Thursday and maybe he will have something to report, but no pastoral candidates as of today.

Christian Education: Melissa reported that an email went out from Janet to the township regarding having the annual church picnic on June 6, 2021.  As of now, there is no cost for this and the township will let us know in April there are any changes.   Melissa will be setting up a meeting to discuss VBS 2021 (date to be determined). Monday Night Bible group is studying the Book of Isaiah and Adult Forum is studying the Book of Acts.  Forty Dollars was donated to provide “Jesus Bags” to our Wednesday Bible Whirl kids to hold all their Bibles and other bible study related items in one place. 

Communications:Jack will relay information to Lauren to put information discussed on the church web page.  The banner for Holy Week will be installed soon in front of the church. Rich added to tell people that the church is open, but reservations are required in advance due to covid safety precautions.  Rich said that palms will be available on Palm Sunday at church as well as pick up on the Saturday before from 10 am to 12 noon and palms can be delivered too if the need arises.

Evangelism:Dale had a meeting with Doug (Chair) and their team is working on a “Running for Jesus 5K” sometime in September 2021.  Rich suggested that they work with Communications to get word out when things are up and “running.”

Finance:Adam stated that Gary Apgar is still working on the PPP loan forgiveness, hopefully it will be settled by mid-March.  Thrivent was updated with Richard Hollenbach’s signature as the new Council President.  Adam informed council that we had a professional audit in 2019 and after discussion with Tracy Beasley Faith Lutheran Church will need an internal audit for 2020, and then a professional audit in 2021.

Fundraising: Sharon noted that Amazon Smile brought some money in recently, but no new ideas right now.   Melissa suggested to schedule a hoagie sale with pick up outside.

Property Team: Vince reported that Landis completed their quote for the new furnaces ($39,600) plus permit fee ($1,244) totaling $40,844.  Vince said that we have $22,000 earmarked for the cost of new furnaces but would have to finance the rest.  Jack made a motion to approve an $18,000 interest free loan over 3 – 6 years and Dale seconded the motion; all members approved this motion.  Vince should send quote and all related paperwork to Debbie Hollenbach, chair of Finance and then Special Funds would need to approve.  Vince also said that the Church sign would be getting installed soon.  Vince brought forward new business that the church building needs a $200 to $300 backflow preventer to be done by March 31 per the township.  Vince will get the actual quote and hand it over to special funds for approval.  The work can be done in three days once the okay for payment is given.

Shepherding: Sharon’s team will be sending out Easter cards.

Social Ministry: Sharon shared two ideas suggested by Nancy Gansner.  Council agreed to hold off on the altar flower sign-up sheet right now due to the pandemic but supported the “soup chart” and the “food basket” ideas but Sharon will go back to Nancy Gansner to figure out the best way to execute this project.

Special Funds:Will be getting together for the heaters and the backflow preventer. 

Stewardship: Jack shared a video about the steps and ease of online giving; he also has a list of seven reasons why online giving is the way to go.  Jack will contact Janet with the announcement of these ideas to put in the bulletin the week before Palm Sunday and then show the video at Palm Sunday announcements.  

Transportation: Dale is still making Wawa deliveries every Wednesday and Friday to people in our congregation and in our community.  “The Lord loves to feed His Sheep.”
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Worship & Music:Our team met this past Sunday, February 28, and covered Holy Week with tentative plans for Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter.  The team talked about the Synod grant.  Part of it goes to training and part is for equipment.  Using Faith equipment at home for convenience for virtual church.  Rich mentioned that they plan to still have virtual church service for those who cannot come even after the majority of members get back to worship at Faith Church.  Rich stated that we need another computer (Adam has been using his personal laptop for church events) so they will be getting a quote for a new computer and take it to Special Funds, but it will not be happening in the next two weeks, he added.  Pastor Mary questioned the light around the screen in the sanctuary appears to be dark. Adam said that it was the fault of his camera. 

OLD BUSINESS 
  • Replacement of the Faith Sign– Sign will be going up! 
  • Furnace replacement– Was already discussed in the above Property Team Report.
  • Constitution Update– Pastor Mary reported that Lauren Krupp is working on the corrections and when finished, Council needs to approve and then the Congregation.
 
NEW BUSINESS
  • Audit Team– We need to put together a team to perform an internal audit of our finances for CY2020.  Sharon is on council so cannot be on this team (Rich also noted no one on Finance Team can be on the audit team}.   Sharon agreed with her past experience of doing internal audits that she will guide the Audit Team of three members.  Sharon said it was not a hard task and takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete.  Rich pointed out that the audit should be completed sometime in April after Easter Sunday.
 
Next Meeting:  Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at 7pm.  Will be a hybrid meeting and Adam has devotions.
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April 2021 Mustard Seed - Note from Pastor Mary

3/25/2021

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Endings and Beginnings
At the March 3, 2021 Church Council, I announced that my last Sunday serving as the Designated Pastor at Faith would be Easter Sunday and my last day of service would be Wednesday, April 8, 2021 which will enable me to say farewell to the children who attend Wednesday Sunday School as we are not meeting the week before during Holy Week.

When I was asked by our SEPA Synod Conference Dean, Pr. Bryan Penman, to serve for 2-3 months as the Designation Pastor (formally known as the “Bridge Pastor) at Faith, I think it’s fair to say that none of us had any idea of what 2020 would hold for any of us and, indeed, the entire world. It proved to be a year of extraordinary challenge which required extraordinary creativity and work on the part of many to literally ‘re-create’ life as we know it in all areas of the congregation’s ministry and mission!

Worship happened online and then in person albeit for a limited number to comply with the exacting requirements to achieve safe in-person worship. Christian Education moved online as well with the Monday Bible study, the Sunday Adult Bible Study and the Wednesday Sunday School continuing to happen every week.   

VBS happened via Zoom in August.  Administration and planning by the various ministry teams continued as well. Property was attended to; food was delivered, caring phone calls and cards were made and sent … Because of my own safety requirements, my entire pastoral functioning happened online or on the phone as well. For me, this was at the beginning a significant challenge which I frankly was dreading because it meant that all my pastoral ‘getting to know you’ and support would happen without the usual and customary in-person physical contact.  But I was falling victim to a common human failing: I seriously underestimated the power, creativity, and activity of the Holy Spirit!

As I reflected on yet another ending chapter of ministry, I realized how much of my life and, in fact, all our lives. are a series of endings and beginnings – both large and small - as each new chapter of our life unfolds. As each day comes, we make many decisions from the relatively insignificant such as what to eat or what to wear to the major decisions that will affect the course of our entire lives … and everything in between.
It has been a blessing to serve at Faith and I pray God’s rich blessings on each of you, your families, your work and the ministry & mission of Faith as you move into the future the Lord has in mind for you. 

Sincerely, in Christ, 
​
Pr. Mary Konopka, Designated Pastor
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March 2021 Mustard Seed - Annual Meeting Notes

2/27/2021

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56th Annual Congregation Meeting, January24, 2021
 
Call to Order:  President Gary Apgar called the meeting to order at 12:07 PMwhich consisted of members virtually on Zoom as well as physically in the church building.  There were 35 confirmed members in the assembly.  Pastor Mary Konopka led the assembly in prayer.
 
President’s Opening Remarks:  Gary thanked everyone for attending and noted the unique nature of this year’s meeting. He described the voting procedures that were sent out but during any vote if there are any issues, please ask questions. Gary explained that anyone with an interest in Faith is welcome to speak, but only members who have made a financial contribution of record and communed during the past 2 years may vote.
 
Minutes of the 55th Annual Congregational Meeting held on January 26, 2020: Linda Kratz moved that the minutes be approved as submitted and Melissa Prunkel seconded.  There were no nays and most members voted yea and the minutes were approved.
 
President’s Report:Gary reported that we had Pastor Ghislaine Cotnoir (Pastor G) for the first 3 months of 2020 and then Pastor Mary Konopka (Pastor Mary) since April.  Our congregation mastered using Zoom for both worship and meetings. We had a professional Financial Review of our books as part of the Call Process and the finance team has incorporated the recommendations.  We received a PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) Loan to help cover our staff and mortgage interest expenses.  We reopened our church building for worship in November. The Call Committee has been working on finding a new pastor.
 
Pastor’s Report/Remarks:  Pastor Mary noted it was a year of adapting to this new virtual environment especially with her having to start as the Bridge Pastor at Faith at the beginning of the pandemic and not getting to meet everyone in person.  She thanked everyone for stepping up to help keep Faith running in this two-dimensional world.  Pastor Mary noted on her report that despite the new membership numbers at zero, there were still many positive events including Sunday School and VBS.  In addition, she has had several phone consulting sessions and through the Holy Spirit we have all adapted to continuing the mission and functions of our church.
 
Nominating Team Report:  The nominating team consisted of Debbie Hollenbach (Chair), Paul Prunkel and Gail Achilles.  Debbie reported that Gary Apgar and Linda Kratz would be leaving after the completion of 6 years on council as mandated by our constitution.  Anne Hutnyk completed a 1-year term due to a vacated position and is eligible to run again for council.  There are 3 open positions on council to elect new members for 3-year terms. The slate of candidates that the team presented included Gail Achilles, Sharon Diggans and Anne Hutnyk.  Debbie introduced all three candidates and they each verbally accepted the nomination to the slate.  Due to the current situation, the congregation was invited to send in nominations ahead of this meeting.  Two members were nominated: Vince Hill and Paul Prunkel.  Vince verbally accepted while Paul declined.  Gary then called for a motion to close the slate which was made by Melissa Prunkel and seconded by Linda Kratz.  All were in favor and the slate of 4 candidates for the 3 council seats would proceed to a ballot.  
 
Congregational Council Election:  For members at the church, they voted by paper ballots while members on Zoom voted by private Zoom chat. Janet Hill and Anita Halpern collected and counted the paper ballots while Rich and Debbie Hollenbach collected the Zoom votes.  The votes were combined and recorded on a spreadsheet for later verification and the results would be announced later in the meeting.
 
2022 Nominating Team:  The Nominating Team for next year’s council elections will be led by Linda Kratz.  Gary Apgar and Dale Foster volunteered to be on the team.  
 
Ministry Team Reports:
  • Nancy Gansner reported that the personal care kits which were collected in early 2020 were distributed to the Keystone Opportunity Center due to COVID. 
  • Melissa Prunkel reported that virtual Sunday School which is held on Wednesday afternoon has continued although attendance has dropped a bit.  She is asking everyone to spread the word to see if there are other children who may be interested in attending. As it’s virtual, students can attend from anywhere.
  • Sharon Hood discussed that the Shepherding team has their plan set up for the year to send cards out to the congregation.
  • Jack Walls acknowledged the challenging year for stewardship and thanked the congregation for their continued faithful giving.  The 2021 pledges are in line with the levels of 2020.
 
Call Committee Report: Gail Achilles reviewed the status of the Call Committee and noted that finding a part time pastor has been a challenge. Following a meeting with our Conference Dean, Pastor Bryan Penman, we have agreed to consider looking at pastoral candidates who will be shared with another congregation.  To date, we are still waiting for such candidates.  Gail offered a prayer for the process.
 
Property Team Report: Vince Hill, the chair of the property team, presented a plan to replace 3 of the 8 heating systems for our church due to their age and one unit is already condemned.  They have received 3 different quotes and are recommending the proposal from one of the vendors for approximately $40,000.  Debbie noted that since this expenditure exceeded 3% of the budget, it will need to have a formal approval from council and then a special congregational meeting and vote will have to be called.  It will be added to the agenda of the February council meeting. 
 
Treasurer’s Report and Finance Team’s Report:  
  • Debbie Hollenbach, Finance Team Chair, reported the external Financial Review as part of our Call Process and reported we are very transparent in our processes and have incorporated the many recommendations from the review.
  • We received the forgivable PPP loan for $11,300 to cover our staff salaries, utilities, and mortgage interest for 8 weeks of 2020.
  • The December 2020 Treasurer’s Report was presented noting that there was a $45,517 surplus at year end 2020, largely due to lower pastoral costs because of the transition, the PPP loan, and reduced costs due to not being in the building.
    • $10,000 will be added to the furnace fund taking the total to $22,000
    • The remaining surplus will be carried over into 2021
  • There are additional expenses in the 2021 budget: 
    • Paychex was added for handing the paychecks of our employees - $880/year
    • Quick Books On-Line - $75/year
    • Zoom License - $160/year
  • Debbie noted that the pastoral salary numbers included in the budget were on the lower side and would most likely be higher.
  • Dale Foster motioned for the 2021 budget to be approved and Chris Jones seconded it. A vote was taken, and the 2021 budget was approved.
 
Announcement of Election Results:  The votes for the election of the 3 council members were counted and the results were: Gail Achilles, Vince Hill, and Anne Hutnyk.
 
Recognition of Retiring Council Members:  Pastor Mary thanked Gary Apgar and Linda Kratz for their 6 years of council service. 
 
Old Business:  
  • The revisions and comments on our constitution were finally received from the SEPA Synod in December 2020 and Pastor Mary will work with Linda Kratz and Lauren Krupp (Allegrezza) in 2021 on updating our constitution. 
  • Moving our Annual meeting to the 4thSunday in January has been well received.
 
New Business:  
  • The Property Team requested we put a couch in one of the Sunday School rooms in case someone gets sick and needs to lie down.  Vince will take care of this request.
 
Adjournment:  Rich Hollenbach led the closing prayer and the meeting was adjourned at 1:38 PM.
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March 2021 Mustard Seed - Announcements

2/27/2021

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Monday Night Bible Study Small Group
Monday Evening Virtual Small Group has started a 6 week (February 22 - March 29) session on the book of Isaiah. The session started Monday, February 22 and will continue until Monday, March 29.  Anyone who is interested is welcome to join. Please contact Nancy Allegrezza

Sunday Morning Bible Study
Adult Forum continues their study of the Book of Acts of the Apostles.  They meet on Zoom at 9:00am on Sundays and are led by Rich Hollenbach. Please contact Rich or Janet (janetatfaith@verizon.net) for the Zoom link. All are welcome!  Hope to see you there!

2021 Phone Directories are  available.
Hard copies are available on the Foyer desk or can be mailed to you by either calling or emailing Janet (215) 368 0240 or janetatfaith@verizon.net.  The directory can also be emailed to you if you prefer.  Just let Janet know.

Amazon Smiles on Faith Lutheran Church!
Another great fund-raiser for Faith Lutheran Church that will cost you nothing (and help us a whole lot, we hope).  Many of you have already heard of Amazon Smile.  Whenever you purchase something from Amazon Smile, be sure to have Faith Lutheran Church set up as your charity of choice.  The church will then receive a portion of the value of your order at no cost to you.  Here is a direct link so that the charitable proceeds come to Faith: 
https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-1675520
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March 2021 Mustard Seed - Council Notes

2/27/2021

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Council Notes, February 3, 2021

Council was called to order by President Gary Apgar.  The opening devotions were given by Rich Hollenbach.
 
  1. NEW COUNCIL ACTIONS
    • Confirmation of newly elected council members – we have performed an independent verification of the election results from the voting at the annual congregational meeting for the 3 open council positions.  
    • Election of new Council Officers for 2021
      • President:Rich Hollenbach
      • Vice-President:Adam Feldman
      • Secretary:Gail Achilles
      • Treasurer: Denise Bailey, Assistant:Debbie Hollenbach
      • Financial Secretary: Janet Hill, Assistant: Carol Taylor
    • Assignment of Committee Chairs (C) / Council Liaisons (L)
      • Christian Education: Melissa Prunkel (C)
      • Communications – Lauren Krupp (C), Jack Walls (L)
      • Evangelism – Doug Renner (C), Dale Foster (L)
      • Finance – Debbie Hollenbach (C), Adam Feldman (L)
      • Fundraising – Linda Kratz (C), Sharon Hood (L)
      • Health – Nancy Allegrezza (C), Anne Hutnyk (L)
      • Hospitality/Fellowship – Anne Hutnyk (C)
      • Long Range Planning – on hold until we call a new pastor
      • Mutual Ministry –need to investigate with the constitution as its chaired by the Vice President, but Adam is also a staff employee
      • Property – Vince Hill (C)
      • Social Ministry –Nancy Gansner (C), Sharon Hood (L)
      • Special Funds – President: Rich Hollenbach (C), will designate another member of the Worship & Music Team to be on the team
      • Stewardship – Jack Walls (C)
      • Transportation – Dale Foster (C)
      • W&M – Rich Hollenbach (C)
      • Audit – Pastor Mary will check into whether we need an audit this year as we did the Financial Review in 2020.
      • Nominating Team –Linda Kratz (Chair), Gary Apgar, Anne Hutnyk (substituting for Dale Foster who goes off council next year)
    • Council 2021 Devotions: alphabetical by last name
      • Devotion Subject:Rich will work with Pastor Mary to select the topic/material
  2. Rich         Mar:Gail     Apr:Adam     May:Dale
  3. Vince       Jul:TBD      Aug:Sharon  Sep:Anne
  4. Melissa    Nov:Jack   Dec:Pastor    Jan:Rich
    • Council Emergency Phone Tree – decision to close the church will be made by: Pastor, Council President & Property Team chair.  Right now, we only need to contact those who come into the church building. Long term: Page assignments: Dale (1), Sharon (2), Jack (3).  We need to update our process for communicating a closure.
 
  1. REPORTS TO BE APPROVED
    • Council Minutesfrom the January 6th regular council meeting were distributed to council members for review.  A motion to approve was made by Melissa and seconded by Adam, all members voted in favor and the minutes were approved.
    • Annual Congregational Meeting Minuteswere distributed for review.
    • Pastor Mary made a clarification that Sunday school attendance on Zoom has remained constant but is lower than when we were in the building.  
    • For the nominating team, it was noted that Dale Foster goes off council at the end of this term and by practice will chair next year’s (2022) nominating team.  Since a person cannot serve two consecutive years on this team, Anne Hutnyk agreed to be on the 2021 nominating team.
    • Melissa asked where the sofa will be located.  She  noted there is a process, which needs to be followed.  Vince proposed putting the donated sofa in the former music room right now and we will discuss again following the COVID quarantine on how best to utilize the Sunday School rooms.  Council approved the action.
A motion to approve the updated minutes was made by Melissa and seconded by Sharon, all members voted in favor and the minutes were approved.
  • Treasurer’s report:(Denise) – Starting in January 2021, we will only be using Quick Books for the reports.  There were a few questions:
    • Adam asked about the layout of the Profit & Loss Statementcolumns and the % of budget is confusing. Denise is having issues with Quick Books to figure this out.  It was recommended that she follow up with Tracey Beasley to help answer her questions.  
    • Adam asked about what the Misc. Income was, and Denise reported it was the $1000 Synod Grant and $1.16 in the monthly interest from our bank account. 
    • Adam request that line 2022 be changed from Telephone to Verizon so it aligns better with the service.  
    • On the Balance Sheet, there was a question on the memorials Accounts, and which are designated or not.  It was on the old report but not on the Balance Sheet. Denise will look to better describe and track these.
A motion to approve was made by Adam and seconded by Dale, all members voted in favor and the report was approved. 
 
  1. REPORTS TO BE REVIEWED
    • President’s Report:(Gary) – Gary reviewed the work of the council and teams that are included in these minutes.
    • Pastor’s Report: (Pastor Mary) - The Annual Meeting, in my view, went very well – much was discussed and achieved as we continue to navigate in ‘these unprecedented times!’ Congratulations and blessings to the newly elected Council members, Gail Achilles, Vince Hill and Anne Hutnyk as well as thanksgiving and much gratitude for Gary Apgar and Linda Kratz for their years of faithful service on Council!
We had a Deacons meeting to discuss the history of the ministry of Deacons at Faith and confirm who the current Deacons were visiting. We set a date (Sun., Feb 7that 12:30pm) to conduct a Home Communion training and share additional information about visitation in general.
​
Also, in January, Faith received $1,000 grant from the SEPA Synod the “Forward Together in Faith” program. The original grant was for $2,084 to purchase a video camera and lighting for the sanctuary (anticipating the ‘sooner or later’ return to worship in the sanctuary) and funds to train more people to use it. We will have to decide how those funds will be applied. However, they must conform to the parameters of the original grant.
 
  1. MINISTRY TEAM REPORTS
  • Christian Education: (Melissa) – Monday Night Bible Study continues and is starting the book of Isaiah.  The group is not limited to women only.  
  • Communications:- No report
  • Evangelism:(Dale) – There was no meeting in December but there is still $1600 available to spend. Dale checked with Doug who will continue as chair.  
  • Finance:(Adam) – See report.  New rules for PPP loans so investigating to see if we qualify for another loan in 2021. Gary will complete the paperwork for the forgiveness of the 2020 loan.  Pastor Mary checked to see if we need an internal audit this year and confirmed we do so will add to the March agenda.
  • Fundraising:(Linda) – The AmazonSmile link is https://smile.amazon.com/ch/23-1675520.  Remember to buy your GIANT gift cards.  
  • Property Team:(Dale) – See new business below on furnaces.
  • Shepherding: (Sharon) – working on valentine cards.  Proposing a “Coffee with Council” session after worship to periodically discuss church business and council events.  Council selected the Sunday following the monthly Council meeting. 
  • Special Funds:(Gary) – Will need to meet to approve the proposed furnace replacement funding request once the final costs are determined.
  • Social Ministry:(Sharon) –
    • We can still donate to Manna: https://mannaonmain.org/give-money/donate-now  or to
    • Keystone Opportunity Center – http://Keystoneopportunity.org
  • Stewardship: (Jack)– no report
  • Transportation: (Dale)– Dale continues to drop off Wawa food Tuesdays and Thursdays to people in our congregation and in the community!
  • Worship & Music:(Rich) – Will be working on Lent.  And will coordinate how we should spend the Synod Grant $1000.  Adam asked to play the entire song during the distribution which will now happen.
  • Mutual Ministry:(Jack) – No report.
  • Hospitality and Fellowship: (Anne) – Council approval is needed to hold any event in the building. 
 
  1. OLD BUSINESS
  • Property – See Faith Replacement of sign document.  Property team will present the proposal at the March meeting. 
 
  1. NEW BUSINESS
  • New Furnaces Quotes  
    • Council agreed to go with the Property Team recommendation of IT Landes but to get an updated quote and answer the questions on BTU numbers. Need to confirm all the costs including the permit. 
    • Jack made the motion to proceed and Dale seconded.  All members of council were in favor of proceeding on this quickly.
  • Pastor Mary received the comments on our revised constitution from the SEPA Synod and will work with Linda Kratz and Lauren (Allegrezza) Krupp on updating our constitution.
 
Meeting Adjourned:9:31pm
Next Meeting:  Wednesday, March 3, 2021 at 7:00 PM. Will be a hybrid meeting. 
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