Category Archives: Bishop and Chapter

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2022

Posted on

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

Annual Congregational Meeting

Posted on

The Annual Congregational Meeting will be held on Sunday, 20 February at 12:00 p.m, in the Cathedral following worship, and simultaneously via web conference. A representative from each family in the congregation is urged to participate.

Members of the congregation can participate in two ways:

1) Attend the meeting in-person.

2) Participate online via Zoom using the link in the Cathedral calendar. If you've used Zoom on your device before, you're all set. If not, you'll be given instructions for installing the Zoom application. Zoom participants will be able to view speakers at the lectern, vote using on-screen polls, and ask questions through a moderator.

View the 2022 Annual Report (for 2021) or obtain a print copy at the back of the Cathedral.

Project 2045 Report Update

Posted on

At its February 10, 2020, meeting, the Christ Church Cathedral Bishop and Chapter adopted the following recommendations of the 2045 Task Force, to:

  1. enter formal discussions with Diocesan Synod about the potential for constructing a new purpose-built facility between the former Bishop’s Court and former Synod Office. Discussions would focus on the concept of sharing ministry and administrative space, and space for most of the activities currently held in Memorial Hall.
  2. continue to pursue opportunities to enhance the flexibility of the existing space within the Cathedral footprint to better accommodate Cathedral and community activities.

The status of the Bishop and Chapter progress on this resolution is as follows:

  • With respect to replacing Memorial Hall with a new, shared ministry building with the Diocese, extensive exploratory discussions have been completed, and it is expected that there will be more definitive information in 2022.
  • With respect to the possible development of a more flexible Cathedral church space, the Bishop and Chapter will shortly receive a Cathedral Condition and Issues Report which will enable us to evaluate and prioritize the Cathedral restoration.
  • Complementary to a Cathedral restoration masterplan, we are investigating the possibility of replacing most pews with chairs that incorporate kneelers and book racks. This work, which includes the assessment of ecclesiastical chairs from at least two manufacturers, will be incorporated into the Heritage Standing Inc. Condition and Issues Report.

All three initiatives, regardless of their outcome, are significantly important for the future life and ministry of our congregation. The three initiatives also impact each other, both functionally and financially. Therefore, it is the intention of Bishop and Chapter that they be considered together, hopefully at some point in 2022.

Cathedral Bishop and Chapter
17 November 2021

Read the Project 2045 report here

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2021

Posted on

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 – September 2021

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met 13 September 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. An article by Rich Birch: “5 Mindsets Church Leaders Need to Change Post-COVID” unSeminary, June 2021 was circulated in advance basing a conversation on the return to pandemic green. Minutes of 21 June 2021 were modified slightly and adopted.

From the Dean

•  a list of usual commitments was provided for review
•  vacation 02-29 August
•  diocesan clergy conference 20-22 September - Renforth
•  staff reviews were completed in June
•  currently processing feedback regarding Sunday worship schedule
•  Day of Truth and Reconciliation September 30th
•  Diocesan Synod 06 November 2021

Discussion

Returning to green - primary current considerations are the Sunday worship schedule moving into the fall. The Dean is listening. While some are quick to count the pandemic past, many others are not. Considerations necessary are many, including our capacity for volunteers, vaccination stats, and several new post-pandemic realities. We’ll strive to proceed cautiously and responsibly with safety in view and in a way that accommodates the comfort level of the majority

Items Arising

Window venting - the project to vent Cathedral stained glass is complete without breakage of the lexan covering at a cost as quoted without breakage

Shared space initiative with the Diocesan Synod - the conversation with Bishop and Synod regarding space needs at memorial hall continues as we attempt to meet needs this fall. With planning consultants finishing this fall, the Synod will be paying per square foot rental for office space

Decision

•  Housing First Project - a lengthy discussion to clarify status and risks both financial and otherwise. The current request is to sign project agreements and begin construction. Chapter is concerned about the congregation volunteer base necessary to manage this project, potentially a 20 year commitment. The Executive will take steps to consult with the congregation to determine if we have that capacity

•  Home Communion - that the dean request permission from our Bishop for Kurt Schmidt to administer the reserved sacrament

•  City electrical on the Green - a letter to outline liabilities the Cathedral will give permission at the request to install electricity on the Green on the north side of Queen for seasonal lighting

Reports

Treasurer - revenue year over year is down while to August we have continued to meet expenses. Several items of expense are upcoming including: venting of stained glass; sprinkler system repair and resuming the salary of the Parish Nurse.

Health and Pastoral Care - Sarah Ecker began work on 01 September

Mission and Outreach - decision item for Housing First. Monday morning programme has continued one day per month

Property - authorized necessary replacement of valve and compressor for fire suppression sprinkler system $8000-$10,000

Christian Formation - Godly Play and Taizé worship both scheduled to resume this month. Committee meeting next week

Communications - website and social media content possibilities discussed. February 2020 survey results were shared with members of the Chapter

Upcoming

•  Season of Creation (01 September - 04 October)
•  Day of Truth and Reconciliation (30 September)
•  Diocesan Synod (06 September)
•  Next meeting - 18 October                                                                   GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2021

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met 17 May 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. The Dean lead some discussion on an article entitled “Managing Resources - Part 1 Finances” (Nancy Davidge and Susan Elliott) from “Vestry Papers” of the Episcopal Church Foundation. “hard questions and their corresponding answers are necessary and vital to your church’s health.” Subtitled sections include: Financial Management, Good Financial Management Begins with the Budget, Different Funds for Different Purposes, Taxes, and Annual Audit/Review. Minutes of 15 March 2021 were adopted. There was no meeting of the Chapter in April.

From the Dean

•  a report outlined usual weekly and monthly commitments
•  monthly communions have resumed at Farraline Place
• a proposal will be put forward for new security equipment (door locking and cameras) and upgrade work on the network at the Cathedral and Memorial Hall to support it
•  Thy Kingdom Come (13-23 May) resources have been made available with encouragement to take part
•  noting again an upcoming need for congregational consultation and visioning regarding future facilities development

Items Arising

Parish Nurse - the application deadline closed 30 April with two received. Interviews will be scheduled. Sally Dibblee search committee chair.

Shared space initiative with the Diocesan Synod - operational costing is under development for a plan proposal of a facility on the east side of Church Street

Housing First Project - terms of reference are being developed for the committee that will oversee the project. Members are needed, including an individual for the role of treasurer. Documentation describing the responsibilities is being sought. Projected costs currently exceed identified funding. Construction completion estimate Fall 2021.

Decision

Security/Network Project - a motion was carried to proceed with security and network upgrades as proposed at a cost of about $12,000, funds to be identified from existing sources. Nightly security site visits ($300-$400 per month) will not be required upon completion.

Discussion

Poet’s Corner - proposal for consideration by Peter Pacey regarding an area (Sherman’s Wharf) with some seating and quiet space for reading. The Chapter suggests a written “letter of understanding” detailing responsibilities and expectations to serve as a document for approval.

Reports

Treasurer - an overview of current financial statements

Property -the work towards updating a 2015 maintenance and restoration plan has resulted in the potential for a major restoration project. Heritage Standing will work on proposing a cost for the creation of a master plan. Breakin and theft from the storage shed on 12 May.

Health and Pastoral Care - Some health ministry programming continues with the help of volunteers

Mission and Outreach - Belize Missions funding is depleted with no recent fund-raising activity. Housing First priority issue

Finance and Administration - a Stewardship Team meeting will be scheduled. The Treasurer will work with the Committee to provide financial background for future monitoring and planning

Christian Formation - overseeing current programming. June meeting will consider the committee work plan

Communications - an initial meeting with the new chair was 20 April

Upcoming

•  Day of Pentecost (23 May) 8:00, 10:00 and 11:45 a.m.
•  Next meetings (third Mondays) - 21 June 2021

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2021

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met 15 March 2021 by video conference with 10 of 14 members present. A faith conversation and discussion of an article “We’re in the Innovation Business” (Dwight Zscheile) was lead by the Dean. Minutes of 16 and 22 February 2021 were adopted.

From the Dean

  • meeting with Pandemic Response Task Group making adjustments for yellow level restrictions Operational Plan 11 March 2021
  • no care facility Communions (Farraline/Windsor Court) in March
  • meetings with Chapter committees and other groups
  • Lenten programmes continuing with thanks to leaders/particpants
  • work progressing on proposal for security upgrades, main entrance monitoring/cameras and potential refurbishment of networking
  • upcoming need for congregational consultation regarding future facilities development

Items Arising

Cathedral Video Project - we await two more cameras. Current live streaming significantly improved thus far. Operators in training

Chapter By-law - members asked to bring current By-law items possibly in need of modification to the next meeting of the Chapter

Discussion

Housing First - information is needed about the current status of the Cathedral Housing First Project. S. Mayo will coordinate a meeting soon.

Resignation of Treasurer - the Chapter regrets having received the resignation of Treasurer Kevin Percy as of 30 April 2021.

Committee membership - J. Mahar will facilitate an accessible online document for submitting/listing up to date committee membership

Annual meeting - noted request for Cathedral consultation re facilities

Decision

Facilities development - The Chapter appointed Jim Morell to act as liaison in current discussions with the Diocesan Synod regarding facilities management and development

Thanks to the Treasurer - a vote of sincere thanks to K. Percy for his service as treasurer. The Chapter Executive will meet soon to discuss next steps

Reports

Treasurer - an overview of February financials noting that expenses significantly exceeded income ($22,500) year to date. Several other reports including the 2020 Diocesan Financial Return, Financial Survey for Diocesan use in applications on our behalf for government subsidy when possible, Diocesan Consolidated Investment Fund to year end 2020.

Property - a report is expected from Heritage Standing updating renovation and maintenance required now and in the future. The current proposal regarding security/network will be shared with the Committee when available.

Health and Pastoral Care - Parish Nurse search: advertisement posted this past week with deadline for application of 30 April.

Mission and Outreach - Clarity regarding the Housing First Project is a priority. Financial management, committee membership and documentation describing commitments, responsibilities and expectations needed

Finance and Administration - the Committee continues to seek leadership for the Stewardship Team and a Safe Church Officer. Recent updates to the Report on Deferred Funds (money in our operating account designated for specific purposes) were considered and recommended. The chair will follow up on a meeting of the Stewardship Team in the near future.

Upcoming

  • Holy Week begins 28 March
  • Easter Day 04 April

Next Meetings: 19 April 2021 (if necessary); 17 May 2021

GMH

Annual Congregational Meeting

Posted on

2021 Annual Report (for 2020)

The Annual Congregational Meeting will be held in the Cathedral on Sunday, 21 February at 11:45 a.m, following worship. A representative from each family in the congregation is urged to participate.

Members of the congregation can participate in three ways:

1) Attend the meeting in-person. Please sign up separately for worship and in-person attendance at the meeting. Maximum capacity of 50 for each event, according to pandemic regulations for gatherings in the Orange Alert Level.

2) Observe the meeting by watching the livestream on the Cathedral YouTube channel.

3) Participate online via Zoom, using the link in your Friday bulletin email (if subscribed), or email the Cathedral Office <office at christchurchcathedral.com> for the link. If you've used Zoom on your device before, you're all set. If not, you'll be given instructions for installing the Zoom application. Zoom participants will be able to view speakers at the lectern, vote, and ask questions through a moderator. Looking for detailed instructions for voting via Zoom?

See the "Voting on Zoom" how-to guide.

Please bear with us as we launch out in these new ways of being the Church in community with the uncertainties we face.

View the Annual Report or obtain a print copy at the back of the Cathedral.

Bishop and Chapter News – February 2021

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met 16 February 2021 by video conference with 11 of 14 members present. Guests Kendra Patrick (Bringloe Feeney LLP) and Tom Maston were welcomed. A faith conversation and discussion of the article “We’re in the Innovation Business” (Dwight Zscheile) was postponed to the next meeting. Minutes of 18 January 2021 adopted.

From the Dean

  • during Orange Alert level no hospital (end of life care only) or home visits. Telephone contacts when possible. Communion is available upon specific request following restrictions
  • no care facility Communions (Farraline/Windsor Court) in current alert level.
  • meetings with Chapter committees and other groups
  • lecture on Anglicanism for students at Northeast Christian College on 08 February
  • refresher course on Prepare Enrich - relationship inventory tool and resources for preparing couples for marriage
  • conversations continue regarding Synod and Cathedral sharing and future development

Items Arising

Cathedral Video Project - one PTZ camera received and temporarily installed yielding significant improvement in the quality of our live streams. Remaining equipment expected soon. Project overview

Chapter By-law - several needed adjustments being identified. Possible revisions to be considered by the new Chapter in 2021

Parish Nurse - Search Committee (S. Dibblee chair) is at work. A next step is finalizing and posting an advertisement for the half-time staff position as soon as possible

Committee and Group Reports - thanks to all for attention to annual reporting. The 2021 Annual Report has been circulated.

Nominating Committee - a current version of the report to the Annual was circulated. Last-minute adjustments in a final version circulated for the Annual Meeting, new nominations up to the time of election

Decision

Financials - 2020 reports including Review Engagement presented by Kendra Patrick and approved for presentation to the Annual Meeting. 2021 Budget approved for presentation

Invested Funds - Agreement between corporations and the Synod regarding participation in the Diocesan Consolidated Investment Fund, as an investment tool of choice, moving to Diocesan Regulation 5-3 from individual contracts. No substantial changes. Motions carried

2021 Nominating Committee - member nominations recommended

Discussion

Annual Meeting - 1) In-person (by signup), 2) observe by live stream 3) Zoom video conference option. See details in the normal Friday email.

Reports

Treasurer - Brief overview of January month-end and Proposed Budget.

Property - Heritage Standing update of 2016 report on Cathedral maintenance on-going

Christian Formation - “Ad - LENT - ures” opportunities for Lenten study and reflection complete with all encouraged to participate

Communications - see annual report for 2020

Health and Pastoral Care - Parish Nurse search a priority. C. Stevenson has resigned as chair of the Health Ministry Committee.

Welcome and Hospitality - see annual report for 2020

Mission and Outreach - progress on Housing First Project - construction expected by summer 2021. Monday morning last Mondays

Finance and Administration - stewardship team hopes to continue progress on narrative budget. Mike Toole has resigned as committee member, Stewardship Team Chair and Cathedral Safe Church Officer

Upcoming

•  Ash Wednesday (17 February); Annual Meeting (21 February)

•  Next Meeting: 15 March 2021

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – December 2020

Posted on

Bishop and Chapter met 14 December 2020 by video conference with 11 of 14 members present. The Dean lead some reflection on “How to Shine Your Light for Christ - So how exactly do you shine?” – practical tips. Members added additional insights. Minutes of 16 November 2020 were adopted.

From the Dean

•  Cathedral Pandemic Operational Plan was revised 01 December 2020 to accommodate the NB Orange Level of Recovery
•  in-person staff meetings continue. Sexton Ashley Swim 30 November
•  consultation with the Diocesan synod regarding temporary facility sharing
•  work completed on a proposal to equip the cathedral with video equipment for better live streaming in the future (December project)
•  Cathedral committee meetings as possible
•  diocesan meetings including Diocesan Council, Finance Committee, Creation Matters, and Fredericton deaneries’ clericus
•  brief report on Christmas worship schedule

Decision

•  Stipend and Salaries - In 2021: Cathedral staff 2% cost of living;. Dean’s Stipend $59,708 ($15,786 above minimum stipend scale)

•  Cathedral Video Equipment Project - acceptance of a proposal to purchase ($12,000 by the end of this calendar year) and install equipment for improved video live streaming and recording. Contributions to the Project (labelled “audio/visual”) are invited

Discussion

•  2021 Budget - draft discussed. Challenges will include some reduction in offerings during the pandemic and no future government subsidies ($52,000 in 2020)

Reports

Treasurer - In November operations income exceeded expenses by $11,711. Diocesan Shared ministry contribution not owing in November due to reduced diocesan expenses year to date. Cathedral Shared Ministry reduced by $1000 per month in 2021. No further federal grants (Canadian Wage Subsidy) expected in December or in into 2021

Property - An initial meeting of the Restoration Committee was held C. Ferris chair). Several repair items: Bishop’s graves, choir room steps, window ventilation. Security camera system under review and awaiting proposal. New sexton 30 November. Heritage Standing to update 2016 report at a cost of up to $4000.

Communications - Coordination of advertising for Christmas. A next Cathedral Connections in the new year.

Health and Pastoral Care - meeting of Health Ministry before Christmas is expected. Health Ministry budget received

Worship - no recent meeting. Presentation of the Video Project proposal

Welcome and Hospitality - no events and little committee activity during the pandemic

Mission and Outreach - $1000 funding for St. Hilda’s School (Belize Missions) will be transferred in the next couple of weeks. Monday morning programme (Outreach) continues on the last Monday of the month in a modified format. Missions Committee needing members

Finance and Administration - hiring of sexton complete. Follow up with Treasurer on 2020 review engagement management letter recommendations. Stewardship Team: “narrative budget” for 2021

Nominating Committee - interim report. Good progress being experienced on acquiring nominations for positions opening in 2021. Further nominations welcome

Upcoming

•  Blue Christmas - 21 December, 7:00 p.m.
•  Christmas Eve - 4:00, 8:00, 11:00 p.m. Christmas Day - 10:00 a.m.
•  New Years Day - 11:00 a.m.

Next Meetings

18 January 2021, 16 February 2021
21 February 2021 Annual Congregational Meeting

GMH