Category Archives: Bishop and Chapter News

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 21 November 2022 in person and with video conference participation, 9 of 13 members present. The Dean led some discussion about governance structure referring specifically to the board model now in place for Bishop and Chapter since 2015. The goal is that all Cathedral ministries fall under one of eight Chapter committees which improves communication, the Chapter being elected for the purpose of making decisions not solving problems. A simple schematic was referenced. Minutes from 17 October 2022 were adopted.

Correspondence

•   request for funding from Montgomery Street School Home and School Association

From the Dean

•  Cathedral: outside Communions (1); committee/group meetings (6); baptism preparation concluded; Greater Chapter and Diocesan Synod; usual staff meetings weekly; opening of the legislature; Remembrance Day and Campus Ministry Event; First Communions; 20 November; Deanery Clericus (1)
•  Role Vacancies: Safe Church Officer; Synod substitute (16-35); Assistant(s) to the Verger; Mission Outreach
•  Diocesan: Diocesan Finance Committee (1); Synod Planning (2); Ordination 20 November; Fredericton and York Deanery Clericus (1)

For Information

Potential Restoration Project - Facilitated by Source Alliance, the draft of a Case for Support of a project responding to the Building Conditions and Issues Report is nearing final stages. In the next several weeks meetings of both Chapter and Diocesan executives will be scheduled with the goal of interviews beginning in the new year.

Nominating Committee - a motion to amend the Bishop and Chapter By-Law regarding appointment, membership, and function of the Nominating Committee was adopted unanimously and will be finalized by Archbishop Edwards.

For Decision

Electrical Contractor - Dobbelsteyn S&M retained as contracter

School Lunch Programme Support - that we support Montgomery Street School lunch programme in the amount of $2000

Transfer of Funds - that $9,669 be transferred to the investment fund having been given and restricted for special purposes

Reports

Treasurer - some significant progress was made in revenue during October with Thanksgiving and a five-Sunday month. October expenses under budget but YTD expenditures are $26,838 over. Year-to-date revenue deficit $15,019. Decline in regular offerings continues during 2022. Preparing the 2023 budget will be challenging

Communications - 2 Minutes for Ministry presentations encouraged. Christmas advertising budget to be used on Facebook

Property - moving to complete the smaller possible projects. Northside Cathedral basement doors have been identified

Finance and Administration - work on a Narrative Budget, staff policy handbook and consideration of third-party insurance continue

Welcome and Hospitality - refreshments following worship are slowly resuming. Interest is being expressed and will support a new committee

Health and Pastoral Care - Health Ministry met 10 November. Assessing possible programming under current circumstances

Christian Formation - one baptism on 05 November, six first communions 20 November. ADVENT-ures programming underway.

Upcoming

•   Advent Lessons and Carols, 4:00 pm (27 November)
•   Giving Tuesday 29 November
•   Christmas Lessons and Carols, 4:00 p.m. (18 December)
•   Usual Christmas Schedule (Christmas and New Year’s on Sunday)

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 17 October 2022 in person with video conference participation with 8 of 13 members present. An article “7 Ways to Make it Easier to Talk About Money” by Ann A. Michel was discussed. The Dean shared his three guiding principles for communication about money: consistency, transparency and removal of emotion. Minutes from 26 September 2022 were adopted with thanks to the Secretary.

Correspondence

•   resignation of Sam Mayo as member of Bishop and Chapter

From the Dean

•   outside Communions (Farraline Place and Windsor Court) (2)
•   committee meetings (3)
•   1 funeral
•   worship for Truth and Reconciliation 30 Sept
•   Farraline fund-raising dinner
•   following legal counsel, final termination letter to Parish Nurse
•   Worship customs under review
•   Life in the Eucharist continues
•   Weekends with Evensong are “full”
•   Baptism preparation underway for one adult on 06 Nov
•   Vacancies
Safe Church Officer, Synod substitute (16-35), Assistant(s) to the Verger

Diocesan
•   Diocesan Finance Committee (1)
•   Synod Planning (1)
•   Bishop’s Counsel (1)
•   Fredericton and York Deanery Clericus (1)

Information and Discussion

Potential Restoration Project - In response to the Conditions and Issues report, Source Alliance is engaged to prepare a “case for support” by mid- November. Interviews will follow to gauge support and possibility. Final report by Spring. We are reminded that such a project will require considerable internal resources and effort. The challenge will be to determine if we have what’s required to launch such an endeavour and if not, what that means for the Cathedral and perhaps, even more importantly, for the Diocese.

Nominating Committee - proposal to be circulated for modification of the Chapter By-Law regarding function of the Nominating Committee

Governance - some initial discussion of “board” vs “ad-hoc” models

Reports

Treasurer - there was some progress made on our deficit in September. We continue to be $37,000 + in expenses over revenue. October thus far appears to be a stronger income month especially with Thanksgiving. We’re hopeful we can continue to make progress to the end of year

Property - the retainer with Carmichael as mechanical contractor has been secured. Batteries for Cathedral emergency lighting have been replaced. Several technical manuals have been digitized.

Finance and Administration - clarification on status of Sarah Ecker as Parish Nurse. Hopes to convene our Stewardship Team. Progress on the Staff Handbook (employment policies). Exploring concerns about third-party liability insurance of users of our facilities

Welcome and Hospitality - working toward building committee membership. Considering worship refreshments

Christian Formation - Life in the Eucharist with six participants - First Communion 20 November, Dante’s Inferno study group, Godly Play and virtual Taize on-going. Advent planning in progress

Upcoming

•   Diocesan Synod 05 November 2022 (Cathedral)
•   First Communions - 20 November 2022
•   Ordination 20 November 2022
•   Advent Procession (Lessons and Carols) - 27 November 2022
•   Christmas Lessons and Carols - 18 December 2022

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 26 September 2022 in person with 10 of 14 members present. The article Post-pandemic Church Growth Accelerators by Carey Nieuwhof was discussed. Focus on core mission, community and connection, online worship and agility were among the indicators of church health. Minutes from 20 June 2022 were adopted.

From the Dean

  • outside care facility Communions (3)
  • committee meetings (3)
  • 3 funerals
  • 1 committal
  • 2 memorials (N. Cutler and Elizabeth II)
  • 1 wedding
  • attended 1 funeral out of town
  • Vacancies
    Safe Church Officer
    Synod substitute (16-35)
  • vacation 25 July - 21 August
  • Staff reviews completed
  • Diocesan Finance Committee (2)
  • Synod Planning (1)

Decision

  • Property committee membership - a revised list of committee members was adopted
  • Mechanical retainer - establish an agreement with Carmichael for mechanical contractor services including 2 yearly maintenance visits
  • Vote of thanks - to those involved in the execution of the commemoration of her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
  • Financial update - That an update be delivered on Sunday, 02 October

Information and Discussion

Funds for restoration - Source Alliance has begun preparing the case for support for a campaign addressing the results of the Building Conditions and Issues Report. We should expect a completion of the feasibility study by early spring 2023.

Reports

Treasurer - offerings are down and expenses are up as we move out of pandemic restrictions. Deficit of about $42,000 Total income is $60,047 behind budget target. Finance and Administration recommending providing congregation with more detailed information

Property - lightning protection system repaired ($7000); 2 trees removed due to disease, shed break in with theft of equipment ($200)

Health and Pastoral Care - Health Ministry is attempting to stay on top of issues, Health Ministry will meet in the near future

Finance and Administration - successful tour guide season, work on Cathedral staffing policies and current employment challenges,, chair of Stewardship Team and safe church officer still vacant, considering issues of third party liability insurance for groups using facilities

Welcome and Hospitality - new chair with committee to be built. Corn boil was on 11 September

Communications - $400 collected for souvenirs over the summer. Souvenirs available to view at Cathedral purchased at the office

Christian Formation - Life in the Eucharist with six participants - First Communion 20 November, Dante’s Inferno study group, Godly Play resumed 25 September.

Upcoming

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – June 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 20 June 2022 in person with 10 of 13 members present. An article entitled “7 Ways to Re-engage Volunteers” (Lewis Centre for Leadership) was considered. Whether it’s due to post-pandemic fatigue, lingering health concerns, or broader cultural shifts, volunteerism hasn’t bounced back as readily as other aspects of congregational life. Susan Beaumont outlines seven ways to revitalize volunteer engagement. Minutes from February, March and May were adopted.

From the Dean

Since the May meeting:

•  Outside care facility Communions (1)
Thomas Hall Shannex booked 18 July
•  Committee meetings (3)
•  Monday lectionary studies concluded 30 May
•  Thy Kingdom Come Novena study weekdays
•  Several recent funerals
•  Baptism 05 June (1)
•  Pentecost celebrations - thanks from archbishop
•  Vacancies: Safe Church Officer; member of Chapter (Hospitality);
Synod substitute (16-35)
•  Diocesan Synod 05 November 2022 (Cathedral)
•  Staff reviews in process (1 complete)
•  Parish Nurse on medical leave since 16 May
•  Tour guide hiring in process
•  Usual diocesan commitments

Decision

Financial Campaign Planning Study - In order for the Cathedral to consider launching a financial campaign, professional assistance will be required. The Chapter Executive has explored four possible candidates to execute a study to determine the feasibility of a campaign. By motion, the Chapter approved preceding with negotiations with Source Alliance (Moncton) towards being engaged to conduct such a study.

Discussion

Items for Information - several documents were circulated for information including:

•  Update on progress on Cathedral and Memorial Hall network upgrades and security system installation project (Peter Jacobs)
•  Source Alliance Proposal
•  Cathedral Building Condition and Issues meeting (12 June) summary (thanks to Ann Deveau)

There was some discussion on the need to communicate with the congregation regarding our financial status and the timing of the same.

Reports

Treasurer - offerings are trending downward and not meeting budget predictions thus far in 2022. Reporting to the Synod re applications to Canadian Employment Wage Subsidy - the Cathedral has not qualified in 2022. $26,428 revenue deficit to 31 May. While compensation being received from Diocesan Synod was not anticipated to fund the 2022 budget, it has been needed to do so.

Property - meeting on 20 June for the purpose of review and prioritizing Conditions and Issues Report findings

Worship - attempts made to recruit for worship duties. Beginning refreshments following summer worship being considered

Health Ministry - Sarah Ecker continues on medical leave which began 16 May.

Finance and Administration - tour guide applicant interviews have been completed and decisions have been made. Contracts will be made this week with guides on duty 01 July. Hank Williams has graciously agreed to provide training

Upcoming

•   Staff vacations as reported in the bulletin
•   Dean vacation 25 July - 21 August
•   Sunday worship schedule continuing

•   Next meeting 19 September 2022                                                   GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 16 May 2022 by video conference with 10 of 13 members present. There was discussion of an article by the Dean titled: “Looking back and forth.” Looking to the past is much easier than looking forward but the decisions we make today will influence the future. Adoption of minutes of the March meeting was deferred to the next meeting.

From the Dean

A brief summary of activity since the last meeting:

  • Two Communions at Farraline Place
  • Diocesan Finance Committee
  • leadership vacancies include Hospitality Committee, Safe Church Officer and Synod Substitute (16-35 yrs)
  • Monday lectionary studies continue through Easter
  • advertising currently for tour 2022 tour guides
  • Easter Day attendance at about 200
  • update on honorary clergy
  • issue with office file synchronization has been solved
  • in the process of a design refresh of the weekly email. A problem receiving mailings seems is being experienced by some.

Decision

Investment account - Creation of an Investors Edge account for the purpose of trading a specific block of stocks on behalf of a Cathedral group

Discussion

Future restoration - the recently received report on condition and issues regarding the Cathedral focuses on necessary work to be considered a priority, listing with advice on the urgency of those renovations and repairs. The Report will be shared with the congregation before summer with the hopes of accompanying it with some interpretation and an opportunity for informed discussion.

With the involvement of our Bishop, some consideration is being given to the kind of professional support needed for such a project and to date one informal interview has been conducted exploring those ends. Decision on if and when action will be taken will follow.

Reports

Treasurer - work continues as we fine-tune accounting now using new accounting software – modifying reporting templates and adjusting processes. Expenses over income was about $630 in the month of April. To 30 April expenses exceed revenue by $28,630 with offerings about $27,000 below what was budgeted / expected. Establishing the Investors Edge Trading account. Canada Employment Wage Subsidy diocesan surveys continue to be submitted each month but no additional payments are expected

Property - no Committee meeting to report. Several conversations and connections during the past several months

Christian Formation - a recent meeting dealt with some informal evaluation and review of Lenten programming. The Committee now looks ahead to Thy Kingdom Come and summer

Communications - a recent meeting discussed the issue of compensations for video live streaming for outside groups. Articles and items of interest are always needed for the website – writers welcome

Worship - a meeting is being planned conscious of some upcoming opportunities and continuing re-evaluation of our pandemic status

Health Ministry - Parish Nurse Sarah Ecker is currently on a medical leave. Specific circumstances not known at this time.

Administration and Finance - advertisement for tour guides. Work will continue on narrative budget and staff employee handbook.

Correspondence

  • That we convey our congratulations to Wayne Squibb on the occasion of his receiving an honorary doctorate of letters degree from the University of new Brunswick on 26 May 2022.
  • That we offer our thanks to the donor, whose wish is to remain anonymous, of $15,000 for the Cathedral sound system upgrade project.

Upcoming

  • Thy Kingdom Come - 26 May - 05 June
  • Day of Pentecost and conclusion of Bishop’s Pilgrimage 05 June
  • Tentative meetings: 20 June, 19 September

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 28 March 2022 by video conference with 10 of 13 members present. There was discussion of an article by David Odom (Faith and Leadership) titled: “How to rehabilitate in the midst of pandemics.” The author highlighted the need to tend integrity, mission and morale and we briefly discussed some of what we need to build into a time of rehabilitation. Adoption of minutes of the February meeting was deferred to the next meeting.

From the Dean

A brief summary of the time since the last meeting included:

•  March Farraline and Windsor Communions cancelled due to COVID
•  Diocesan Finance Committee
•  Diocesan online safe church training completed
•  Diocesan returns submitted by the 15 March deadline
•  informal staff review with S. Ecker following probationary 6 months
•  leadership vacancies include Hospitality Committee, Safe Church Officer and Synod Substitute (16-35 yrs)
•  arrangements for summer tour guides should begin soon

Decision

Report on Cathedral Conditions and Issues - Revision 1 (2022-03-21) of the report was accepted by the Chapter with plans underway to share it more widely

Discussion

Cathedral Conditions and Issues - A lengthy discussion on the report by Heritage Standing followed feedback and suggestions on the draft recently presented to the Chapter, Property, Administration and Finance Committees and Cathedral Staff. Significant consideration was given to the process of sharing the report including how and when and the supports necessary for effective communication of its content. The report provides a high level of detail, is very well done and outlines both short and longer-term priorities for Cathedral maintenance and restoration. All items identified are important, some critical while others could be postponed. The Chapter Executive was charged with considering the rollout in more detail soon.

Funding future restoration work - T. Maston provided a summary of recent contacts and research regarding approaches to fund-raising according to the magnitude detailed in the Conditions and Issues Report

Reports

Treasurer - Regarding recent revenues, we had a strong conclusion to 2021 with January below anticipated offerings. February seems to be ‘trending in the right direction’ with a February deficit of about $17,000. Finetuning of Sage Accounting software continues. The survey to determine eligibility for government subsidy (unlikely) was submitted. E-transfer has been set up especially for groups making donation or rental payments

Property - the Committee is considering maintenance prioritization based on issues having been documented by Heritage Standing.

Christian Formation - Lenten programming continues with many devotional and study options this year

Worship - the Committee met with items of the scheduling of lectors, intercessors and servers in the coming weeks. Having an overseer of the scheduling is very helpful for reminders and smoothly filling

Health Ministry - recent review of the calling list and looking forward to re-establishing social opportunities for many who feel isolated

Mission and Outreach - an inquiry about the possibility of erecting an outdoor food cupboard. Committee will explore re the proposal

Upcoming

•  Tentative meetings: 16 May, 20 June
•  Holy Week begins 10 April usual schedule
•  Easter 17 April: 8. 10. 11:45

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – February 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 21 February 2022 by video conference with 11 of 13 members present. The Chapter welcomed new member Harry Palmer. A conversation focussing on the article “People Support What They Help to Create” - David McAllister (Lewis Centre for Church Leadership) framed issues around approaches to leadership. Several phrases helped to summarize the content including: “The many are smarter than the few,” “server leadership,” and language of “moving with the Spirit.” Minutes of the 15 November 2021 and 17 January meetings were adopted.

From the Dean

As a summary of activity since the November meeting:

•  Farraline Place Communion
•  Diocesan Finance Committee
•  Several webinar opportunities attended
•  CPR certification with Cathedral staff
•  administrative issues with office file sharing and member information

Decision

Cathedral Advisory Committee - as per requirement following an annual meeting, the Bishop’s Advisory Committee was elected - T. Maston, S. Dibblee (chair), V. Hachey, C. MacDonald (secretary), C. Ferris.

Annual meeting elections - a motion carried to destroy ballots. Delegates to Synod in order of election: C. Schmidt, J. Macaulay, N Fetter (youth), J. Maston, R. Macaulay

Discussion

Cathedral Conditions and Issues - Heritage Standing has completed a draft of the pending report and met with members of the Chapter, Property and Finance & Administration committees and others providing a technical briefing on 17 February. The current version of the Report is a 125 page comprehensive detailed summary of investigation by Heritage Standing from previous work and more intensively over the last several months and since being engaged mid 2021. Recommendations are provided as to the urgency of restoration and renovation needed over the coming decade. Most critical and one of the most expensive components being the Cathedral roof which is currently failing and will need to be addressed at the front end of any planned extended restoration. The Chapter candidly discussed the reality that required funding is well outside of what the Cathedral congregation can raise internally. At the same time, the normal ministry needs to continue. Informally there was discussion of some possible options that will need to be explored, including determining the time line for the next several years. Some initial next step items were identified, including feedback to Heritage Standing as it attempts to finalize the Report.

Reports

Reports having been made to the Annual meeting, only a few additional items of note were offered by members.

Treasurer - January expenses exceeded revenue, resulting in a month to date and YTD (31 January 2022) deficit of approximately $8002. January offerings were down: $30,870 (budgeted $49,638). We finished 2021 with a surplus of $34,666 due to several one-time accounting factors

Property - during the abnormal thaw, water at the west door and on the green has been monitored over the past week with only a bit of seepage into the basement. Some expense has been required of late for fire safety infrastructure, some of which was deferred maintenance

Christian Formation - Lenten programming is being arranged with all encouraged to choose from a variety of possible formation opportunities

Upcoming

•  Tentative meetings: 14 March, 16 May, 20 June
•  Ash Wednesday - 02 March 2022
•  Ad-LENT-ures 2022

Bishop and Chapter News – January 2022

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Bishop and Chapter met 17 January 2022 by video conference with 11 of 13 members present. Considerations of an article entitled “Reimagining Church Buildings” - Dave Harder (Lewis Centre for Church Leadership) prompted discussion on what is necessary to see church buildings as assets instead of liabilities. What is the old narrative? How do we shape a new story? Who are church buildings for? How do we listen to the needs of the wider community? 15 November 2021 minutes were delayed and will be adopted at the next meeting. There was no meeting of the Chapter in December 2021.

From the Dean

As a summary of activity since the November meeting:

  • Farraline Place Communions (2) / Windsor Court - February 22
  • 3 sessions of baptism preparation for 09 January 22 baptism
  • Christmas in-person attendance 175
  • Diocesan Finance Committee (2)
  • Health restrictions required ceasing singing on 28 December
  • New Years Day eucharist cancelled
  • Current Level 3 no in-person worship - Live stream continues

Decision

Future meetings - the future meeting schedule was discussed with considerations of upcoming needs including: Annual Meeting plans and the possibility of a joint meeting with the Finance and Administration and Property committees following receiving the Heritage Standing report. An agreed upon meeting schedule is listed as upcoming.

Annual Meeting - while it’s impossible to anticipate pandemic restrictions, 20 February 2022, 12:00 Noon was set for the 2022 Annual. Should in-person be possible, meeting at the Cathedral with video-conference option. If no in-person, we may consider virtual only or postponement until such time as we are able to meet

Discussion

Heritage Standing forthcoming report - Heritage Standing is coming close to completing the detailed report outlining Cathedral building needs. There was lengthy discussion to consider how that report can be used to inform our planning for the next several years. It is clear, there are costly repair and maintenance issues ahead, one of the most critical being the roof. Exact costing is impossible but renovations and restorations will be substantial. Organizing and executing a project of that size will be the challenge, recognizing that resources internal to the congregation are woefully insufficient. A proposed initial report reception includes a joint meeting between Heritage Standing, the Chapter and the Finance/Administration and Property committees is anticipated within the next 4-6 weeks

Reports

Treasurer - year-end reporting is always a challenge as we ensure that past year income and expenses are recorded properly. December was a good revenue month. We anticipate ending the year with a modest surplus with offerings slightly below budget, federal government subsidies and continuing consistent giving

Health and Pastoral Care - last meeting of health ministry in November. Continuing to stay in touch during changing restrictions

Mission and Outreach - Monday morning continues last Monday of the month in modified format

Property - Ongoing monitoring of Heritage Standing project assessing future Cathedral building needs

Christian Formation - online versions of most activities continue. Looking ahead to Lenten programming

Communications - draft annual report circulated to committee

Finance and Administration - January meeting updates on staff handbook, narrative budget, safe church officer, review of financials and report of envelope secretary. Summer tour guides for 2022

Upcoming

  • Tentative meetings: 21 February, 14 March, 16 May, 20 June
  • Annual Congregational Meeting: 20 February (27 snow)

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2021

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Bishop and Chapter met 15 November 2021 by video conference with 11 of 13 members present. The Chapter regrettably received the resignation of Lynn Meehan. The article “Moving Forward in Uncertain Times” (Susan Beaumont) was read in advance and discussed. We continue to live in liminal time learning through rather than planning through. How do organizations adopt new ideas? 18 October minutes adopted.

From the Dean

A summary of the time since the last meeting included:

•  training with administrators of Home Communion
•  Communion at Windsor Court (first since Feb 2020)
•  3 sessions of baptism preparation for 07 November
•  bi-weekly Sunday Choral Evensong continues
•  work with stewardship narrative budget team
•  Diocesan responsibilities/meetings

Items Arising

Sharing space with Diocesan Synod - discussion and planning continues with a next meeting scheduled next week. Renovations to the former youth room pending completion. Next on the agenda is arrangements for how the diocese will compensate the Cathedral for occupied space and consideration of a time line for future development and cooperation

Decision

Neighbourhood Home and School - a need identified for local outreach to students (winter clothing/food) identified. A grant to Montgomery Street School Home and School of $3000 was approved recognizing a possible over spend in the Cathedral Mission/Outreach 2021 budget

2022 Budget - initial draft proposing a slight increase including cost of living increases to stipend/salaries at the direction of Diocesan Synod

Discussion

Leadership vacancies - Notification to Nominating Committee on up-coming Bishop and Chapter vacancies, Synod delegates, Safe Church Officer and Chair of Stewardship Team
Project 2045- a draft document under consideration as communication about current status and follow-up on recommendations

Reports

Treasurer - income continues slightly ahead of expenses. Year to date we are 1.6% ahead of last year’s offering actuals. Work is nearing completion on new programmed capabilities to the current accounting software (Sage 50) which will result in clearer reporting. Canadian Employment Wage Subsidy applications up to date but we no longer qualify for further Federal Government subsidy

Health and Pastoral Care - Our parish nurse continues to make connections and become familiar with her role. Parish Nursing course in progress. Webinar 17 Nov (Wholistic Care and Wellness - IHMC) Training for Home Communions. Hospital remains closed to visitors

Mission and Outreach - Monday morning programme 41 recipients. Angels returned and complete. Potential school outreach

Property - Heritage Standing continues with engineering report and provided update

Christian Formation - Taizé, Godly Play, Youth Group, and Life Shared (November) continue. Advent opportunities TBA. Meeting this week

Communications - usual invitation for communications contributions. Christmas advertising discussed and direction given for 2021

Finance and Administration - work on a narrative budget continues. Contents of a new staff handbook outlined with plans in process for the drafting of content. Various financial management issues considered at the last meeting including the 2022 operating budget.

Upcoming

•  First of Advent - 28 November
•  Christmas Lessons and Carols 4:00 p.m. 19 December
•  Usual Christmas worship schedule anticipated
•  Next meeting - 13 December

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2021

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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