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Minutes of Present: Jennie Motheral, Jerry Stowe, Andy Simon, Donna Jenschke, Bobbie Joines, Steve Anfinson, Holly Shirley, Mary Vestuto, Jeannie Hargis, Sara McKeon, Pastor Mike Williams, Donna Kelley. Absent: Ward Jones and Sandra Yarborough Guest: Linda Corder Opening Prayer: Holly Shirley Guest Linda Corder asked to address council with a few concerns that she felt were important to share. She stated there seemed to be constant negative comments which appeared to be due to a bigger issue within the congregation. Linda noted that recently we ran out of oil for the candles and she heard from several members regarding the issue. She noted that Altar Guild had attempted to change a few things and that there seemed to be complaining at every turn. Linda said her concern is that she believes there is still brokenness within this church. Jerry stated that he has received some of the same types of complaints and understood. Jennie noted that sometimes people do not like change, it may be different and people are unsure. Linda continued by stating that she was not sure how to fix the hurt feelings, but feels the issues need to be resolved and that people need to be involved. Pastor Mike commented that many times when small details are brought forward, usually those individuals are not looking at the big picture. Pastor also noted that he believes one of the biggest problems is with communication. He said that compliments to those that keep doing the job are not given as they should. Pastor continued by stating that it is important to let the congregation know what we are doing and thank them for the help provided. Linda stated she believes that we need to do a healing service or time to ask forgiveness of those we hurt, thinks we need to forgive and ask for forgiveness. She noted that we have many things that caused hurt but that it is time to come together and pray, that we cannot keep trying to move forward without the healing.
Pastor’s Observations: Pastor stated that as
he looks forward there are several things he wants to bring to the
congregation. The first thing is a prayer ministry. The first meeting he
held was attended by 15 people. Pastor stated that when the congregation
is involved in prayer, God really does bless. He would like to have
prayer stations every Sunday and even after services. He also encourages
prayer circles and would like to have involvement with writing prayers,
prayer vigils and prayer meetings. Pastor also noted that what we should
pray about is God’s vision for this church. We want to be fruitful,
exciting and want people to be accepted in this church. Treasurer’s Report: Sara noted that there are three authorized to sign checks, President, Vice-President and Treasurer. She confirmed the current signors. Mary contacted Wells Fargo bank and stated that she and Jeannie needed to go to the bank to have Jeannie’s name added and Sara’s name removed. Sara continued by reporting that the last few Sundays of the year, giving to the building fund was up. She stated that she anticipated it would be possible to pay off the building loan next spring. Discussion was held regarding monies available in the building fund and the possibility of reallocating the monies noted for a family life building. Sara is to research and report back to the council the process needed to release finds from different accounts if it is determined that the loan could be paid off earlier. No decision will be made without thorough and detailed research and the consent of the congregation. Sara stated that we closed the year in the “black” but very low cash reserve. Bobbie stated his concern and our need for cash reserve. Discussion was held with regards to filling the Financial Secretary position. Pastor stated he had received the resumes and asked that Sara and Jeannie meet with him to review those resumes. Andy noted that there was interest from another individual who was to submit her resume. Sara also noted that the financial review had been completed by the committee of Delbert Oehler, Mary Leach and Weldon Baker. Approval of minutes: Motion by Steve to approve minutes of 12/15/09 meeting with the clarification of the last sentence on page one, Treasurer’s report, should include a $ sign reading “$27,000.” Motion was seconded by Jennie and carried unanimously. Action Items/Discussion: Andy noted that the 2010 budget will be presented at the annual congregational meeting on January 24, 2010. The meeting will be held between services. Sara will present the year-end financial report and Bobbie will present the budget committee’s findings and assumptions on the 2010 budget. Discussion regarding building insurance was held and Jerry noted that the premium notice had been received from Church Mutual. Sara will contact an insurance representative to seek bids for council to review. Committee Reports: Stewardship: Holly read from Ephesians Evangelism: Jennie noted that the committee is sending cards and making calls to visitors. They are working to invite people to attend services and participate in the church’s different ministries. Name tags have been made for all members. Youth: Donna noted that the December shopping trip to San Antonio was canceled due to lack of participation. She stated many of the youth are involved in so many activities that they did not have the time and some probably did not have the money to shop. Youth helped the Salvation Army with delivering gifts, but there was a small number to participate. Donna also noted that the youth went Christmas caroling to the nursing homes and other shut-ins. Parish Ed: Bobbie noted that they are now working on a purchase order system for large items in order to provide a better accounting of expenses. He stated that he and Donna have been working on the appreciation dinner for Sunday School Teachers which is set for 02.12.10 to honor the teachers and their spouses. Bobbie continued by noting that $7600 has been budgeted for 2010 and their goal is to spend the majority on the youth this summer. He commented that we have some youth that are in hurtful situations and need our prayers. Andy noted that it had been announced that adult Sunday school classes were being split. Discussion was held on this topic. Holly commented that it does not make sense to split, that it is okay to have multiple classes but should not be conflicting. Pastor Mike stated that he needed to discuss further with the other Pastors to see what could be worked out. Property: Jerry reported that Hill Country Telephone Cooperative was on location installing fiber optic to the building and had installed the necessary equipment. He noted that the shut off value in the restroom had been replaced and a new vent fan in the women’s restroom installed. Jerry also explained that in 2009, expenditures totaled $92,600. Benevolence: The focus for February will be the Red Cross. They will be having their annual “Heroes” campaign during the month of February, Children’s Center: Steve reported that they are on track to finish with a small balance. The center recently passed on-site inspection for the year. He noted that the board had approved an operating budget and will be increasing rates beginning February 1st, The board was concerned about having to increase rates but have received no negative reaction. Rates run from $480 to $550 per month. The center averages 85-86 children. Steve noted that two board members had resigned and he is seeking volunteers. Sara will have prayer and devotional for the next meeting in February. There being no further business, motion by Andy, seconded by Jerry, to adjourn at 9:20 p.m. Motion carried.
Respectfully submitted, Donna W. Kellev. Secretary |