Bishop and Chapter met 18 October 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. The article “Which Suckers are Holding You Back” (Victoria Atkinson White) was read in advance and briefly discussed. The need to review how active programme and ministries are meeting real needs requires constant attention. Minutes of meetings on 13 and 20 September were adopted.
From the Dean
The usual summary of what’s been accomplished since the last meeting was provided. Of note:
• a quick turnaround and somewhat unilateral decision was made in September regarding the requirement of COVID-19 vaccinations
• “Prayers for Truth and Reconciliation” held on 30 September
• Preparation for Baptism to begin this week
• Training is being arranged for those who have Bishop’s permission to administer the reserved Sacrament
• September conference for clergy and November Synod cancelled
• We’ll begin to make progress soon on the installation of security systems (approved project)
• Choral Evensong scheduled bi-weekly for the foreseeable future
• Diocesan responsibilities/meetings
Items Arising
City re electrical on the Green - following Chapter approval, a decision has been made by the City of Fredericton to postpone the installation of electrical outlets on the Green north of Queen
Shared space initiative with the Diocesan Synod - the Cathedral continues to do its best to meet space requirements and requests of the Diocesan Synod. A schedule of a future rental arrangement is being prepared. The current youth room (Hall second floor) is being vacated to create several more office spaces for Synod staff at their request
Housing First - while considered somewhat unfortunate, a special meeting on 20 September made the decision to withdraw the Cathedral from the Housing First Project. The long-term commitment, especially in terms of the skillset and the volunteers required, presented an uncomfortable level of risk. Fortunately, another organization is willing to step in and fulfill the goals of the Community Action Group on Homelessness. Monies and land (corner of Albert and Regent) received for the Project to date are in process of being transferred back for use towards that commitment
Reports
Treasurer - we continue to stay just ahead of expenses year to date as reported weekly. A small project will be undertaken to provide some additional programming of accounting software to simplify the bookkeeping, reduce transcription errors and better meet reporting needs
Health and Pastoral Care - We continue to work within ongoing restrictions. Hospitals are now closed to visitors
Mission and Outreach - Monday morning Outreach programme continues on the last Monday of the month
Property - work continues with Heritage Standing Inc to create a master plan of Cathedral potential maintenance/restoration requirements
Christian Formation - Fall programming including Taizé, Godly Play, Youth Group, sacramental preparation and Life Shared (November) underway
Communications - reminder of request for website contributions from committees or any interested in authoring some content
Finance and Administration - 2022 budget under consideration. Stewardship Team is considering a narrative budget and is in need of a chair. A staff handbook outlining employment policies and protocols is in process to replace a decades-old version. An individual has expressed interest in the role of Safe Church Officer
Upcoming
• Festival of Baptism - All Saints (trans) 07 November
• First of Advent - 28 November
• Next meeting - 15 November
GMH