Bishop and Chapter News – September 2024

Bishop and Chapter met on 17 September 2024 with 9 of 12 members present. Minutes of 18 June and 28 August 2024 were adopted. The meeting on 28 August was used to discuss initial work being done on the proposed Fredericton Cathedral Foundation. A “SWOT Analysis” was discussed identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats identifying our reality in each category

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• the Dean offered the usual summary of activity since the last regular meeting on 18 June. Vacation was 08 July - 04 August.

Diocesan

• meetings of Synod Finance Committee; Synod Planning

Up-coming

• 2 funerals upcoming; 30 September - Truth and Reconciliation

FOLLOW-UP on DECISION

Restoration Trust Fund - amended version posted

• Fredericton Cathedral Foundation

- R. Crowe continues work on a document describing a relationship with a Cathedral Foundation yet to be formed

• Safe Church - deadlines agreed upon

- 31 December - training for groups and committees, completion of risk assessments by all groups.

- 31 March: position profiles for volunteers, groups and committees, action plans resulting from the assessment of risk

DISCUSSION

Cathedral boiler requires attention. Several options, two of which were discussed: repair ($23,000) or replacement ($63,000). Further consideration and study, including funding possibilities required

REPORTS

Nominating - one chapter vacancy remains (Christian Formation)

Buildings and Property - 1) Cathedral boiler 2) Stairlift installation awaiting electrical upgrade 3) Floor tile scratches from Sprinkler maintenance being addressed 4) Hall janitor sink repair 5) Inquiry from Diabetes Canada about installing an outside clothing bin

Finance and Administration - Second round of Sexton interviews complete with hiring expected this week. Help on the Safe Church working group is needed. Need to clarify understandings re Synod and Bishop’s Offices

Welcome and Hospitality - corn boil 15 September. Future events in view. Sunday refreshments continue. Considering Safe Church commitments

Health / Pastoral Care - the chair inquired as to specific direction from the Chapter

Mission / Outreach - Food cupboard to be installed by Mothers’ Union; Monday morning outreach avg 60 attendees; mid-year funds sent to St. Hilda’s Belize - need to explore interest in a Belize mission trip; one request through Benevolence Policy processed; volunteers always needed

Worship - frequency of Sunday Evensong is being questioned

Treasurer - statements for June, July and August were presented. August: Year to date Income - $391,504 Expenses - $435,913 Total deficit year to date (-$44,409)

All committee chairs issue an invitation to become involved in ongoing activities and ministries. If you have an interest in becoming more engaged, please speak to a member of Bishop and Chapter

UPCOMING

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2024

Bishop and Chapter met on 21 May 2024 with 11 of 12 members present, Archbishop Edwards, chair. Minutes of 13 March, and special purpose meetings 09 April, 24 April, 01 May were adopted. An article entitled “5 Ways to Minimize the Stress of Pastor and Employee Evaluations” by Sarai Rice was referenced. Congregations often evaluate the work of staff in ways that lead to a lot of stress. Fortunately, the church can do better.

PRESENTATION - Future Fredericton Cathedral Foundation

Canon Charles Ferris and Tom Maston shared with Chapter work done thus far by the advisory group exploring foundation possibilities for the future Cathedral operations on behalf of: Melissa Dawe, Jean-Paul Desjardins, Bruce Eddy, Charles Ferris, Bill Jones, John Leroux, Lori Mais-McCord, Tom Maston, and Vanessa Youssef. Four recommendations to begin as soon as possible 1) Name and federally incorporate the foundation; 2) Make assets available for a financial campaign to acquire further restoration funds. Transfer maintenance funds to establish an endowment. A congregational meeting to amend the Restoration Fund By-Law will be required. 3) Begin work with all parties to develop an initial operating agreement 4) Approve transfer of Cathedral property to the new foundation

CORRESPONDENCE

P. Shepherdson - communication from the Diocesan Synod re financial assistance with Memorial Hall chair lift replacement project

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• the Dean offered a written report of Cathedral ministry activity since 13 March including the intention of vacation 08 July- 04 August 2024. Note that annual staff reviews will be scheduled in June

Diocesan

• 2 meetings of Synod Finance Committee; 1 Bishop’s Counsel

Up-coming

• Cathedral staff reviews during June; 3 committals scheduled; wedding 06 July (Smith/Demerchant); Diocesan Synod is 02 Nov

DECISION

• Cathedral Foundation - approve the name and consent in principle to the transfer of property. Current maintenance assets to be transferred

• Hall chair lift- that the lift be replaced (approx $30,000). Funding: Hall Renovation Fund, Guild of St. Joseph, Diocesan Synod and an appeal for contributions

• Restoration Fund Committee - appointed - R. Crowe, G. Hall, G. Young-Morris, C. MacDonald, J. Mahar, A. Decken (See By-Law s.6)

• Interim cleaning services - that we engage Crystal Clean Maintenance

• Food cupboard - approval to Mothers’ Union to install a food cupboard on the Green in consultation with the Property Committee

REPORTS

Nominating - Chapter will need to express its will on current vacancies (Committees on Worship, Christian Formation, Vice-Chair)

Buildings and Property - current projects: hall chair lift ($30,000), unexpected hall boiler repair ($8500); cathedral sprinkler flushing 17-21 June ($60,000), interim cleaning and maintenance arrangements

Communications - invitation to any who would like to be involved especially with writing and on-going website needs

Finance and Administration - Safe Church initiatives underway, sexton search, tour guides to hire for July/August

Christian Formation - “Living with Dying,” Thy Kingdom Come 2024

Health / Pastoral Care - blood pressure clinics possible, tea in April

Mission / Outreach - some casual questions about future mission trips

Welcome Hospitality - Sunday refreshments main focus

Worship - meeting this week, summer music series coming together

Treasurer - April YTD Revenue $193,602 Expense $190,240

UPCOMING

• Congregational Meeting - Sunday, 16 June 2024 following 10:30 a.m. worship - Agenda: amendment of Restoration Fund By-Law

• Next meeting - 18 June 2024

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2024

Bishop and Chapter met on 13 March 2024 with 11 of 14 members. Minutes of the 16 January, 06 and 25 February 2024 were adopted. With the intent of providing some brief orientation for newer members, the article “Re-inventing Boards That Bore: Overcoming Micromanagement” was circulated. The Dean offered reflections on the Cathedral Chapter structure, some of the unhelpful ways we regard committees, minutes, agendas and meetings creating barriers and “Tips for Chairing Effective Meetings.” "Reluctant to embrace formality we can’t allow informality to become disorganization.”

CORRESPONDENCE

J. Yeamans - resignation from the role of Treasurer as of 30 April 2024. Jamie is making an employment change that will require his attention

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral
• the usual report of pastoral and administrative activity since the last meeting of chapter

Diocesan
• 2 meetings of Synod Finance Committee; 1 Diocesan Counsel

Up-coming
• Holy Week begins 24 March, Easter 31 March, North American Deans Conference in April. Schedule to be published.

DECISION

• Signing authorities - R. Crowe and H. Palmer be added to bank account signatories
• Safe Church - that all members of Chapter acquire Police Record Checks and Safe Church Training by 30 April 2024

REPORTS

Nominating - noted that succession planning be part of Chapter committee goals. A meeting will be scheduled soon to consider the impending treasurer vacancy

Buildings and Property - currently assembling and updating a list of items now before us. Cathedral heating zone pump replaced in January. Committee meeting scheduled 14 March

Communications - usual ongoing tending of web and social media. The Committee is prepared to offer design/creation of graphics and posters for events and other needs

Finance and Administration - active items: formulation of strategy for implementation of Safe Church policy, Staff policies handbook, need for ongoing initiatives on financial/giving with former Stewardship Team now inactive

Christian Formation - committee moving forward with planning for a program offering of several learning sessions on “Living with Dying,” hopefully during the Easter Season, Ad-LENT-ures devotional/educational opportunities continue and going well

Health / Pastoral Care - active items: 2 new hospital visitors, spring social gathering, Helping Hands and Prayer Shawl ministries active; exploring offering spring blood pressure clinics; chair Yoga to resume in April, initiative to update Call and Cathedral Visitors’ lists

Mission / Outreach - on-going conversation about pending proposal by Mothers’ Union for a neighbourhood food cupboard, Belize Missions financial commitments re school support and scholarships up to date

Welcome Hospitality - luncheon following Annual Meeting seemed to go smoothly. Simple Soup Supper being planned for Maundy Thursday, 5:30 p.m.

Worship - hopes for servers and youth choir for Easter Day at 10:00 a.m.; proposed that keyboard needed for choir rehearsals be purchased; investigating Prayer Book replacement needs at the Cathedral

UPCOMING

• Next meeting - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, 09 April 2024: Safe Church training
• Palm Sunday 24 March; Easter 31 March

 

Bishop and Chapter News – January 2024

Bishop and Chapter met on 16 January 2024 with 8 of 12 members and one guest. Minutes of the 11 December 2023 meeting were adopted. J. Yeamans was elected meeting chair. The Chapter briefly discussed the article “7 Trends for Church Leadership in 2024" (Lewis Centre for Church Leadership). Worthwhile to compare challenges and successes with the wider church.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• 2 care facility Communions; 1 funeral; 4 staff meetings; dinner for staff 02 January; 3 committee / group meetings; 8 home/hospital visits; Christmas attendance 297/80/98/38; New Year’s Day

• Chapter vacancies: Lay Chair | Vice Chair | Property

Diocesan

• 1 meeting of Synod Finance; 2 Bishop’s Counsel

Up-coming

• Ash Wednesday is 14 February

DECISION

• Home Communion - that the Dean request permission for Doreen Smith to administer Home Communion
• Bookkeeper - that we increase the per hour rate being paid
• Budget - acceptance of the 2024 Budget as modified for presentation
• Annual - meeting 1:00 p.m. 18 February 2024 following a light lunch at the Cathedral. Snow date 25 February
• Repairs - that the Property Committee proceed with repairs of Cathedral furnace motor (est $2500) and replacement of Cathedral chimney cap (est $5500). 2024 maintenance budget has been increased
• 2023 Financial review - Bringloe Feeney appears to be unable to provide a review engagement. The Dean and Treasurer will attempt to engage 2 competent individuals to review 2023 financials

REPORTS

Treasurer - December ended with a 2023 deficit of about $20,000 (2023 offering was $46,033 below budgeted - see bulletin offering budget summary)

Nominating - continues to meet. Three nominations have been secured. One member of Chapter needed (Communications Committee chair?)

Buildings and Property - Interim chair R. Crowe reported on current active items including: Cathedral furnace pump; Cathedral chimney cover removed by wind; consideration of now inoperable platform lift at Memorial Hall. Programable thermostat installations at the Hall complete. 2 additional inside security cameras (1 hall/one church) complete. Garda Security contract for the Hall has been cancelled.

Finance and Administration - finishing up work on staff policy handbook; application for 2024 tour guide funding made; statistics on 2023 summer visitors reported; Safe Church Committee to meet to consider implementation strategy

Health / Pastoral Care - chair for Health Ministries needed. 2 new hospital visitors. 2 new administrators of home communion. Cathedral Visitors made visits at Christmas. Hospital Visitors met January 9th. Ongoing consideration of possible ministries with available volunteers

Mission / Outreach - Benevolence policy form used once at Christmas. Giving Tuesday campaign exceeded $2000 to Montgomery Street School project. $1000 support to St. Hilda’s, Belize sent at the end of the year

Worship - a youth choir sang on Christmas Eve at 4:00 p.m. Recognize need to reestablish a server’s guild and train new servers

UPCOMING

• Annual reports due 31 January
• 14 February 2024 Ash Wednesday
• Annual Congregational Meeting 18 February, 1:00 p.m.
• Next meeting - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, 06 February teleconference

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – December 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 11 December 2023 with 8 of 12 members present. R. Crowe attended as guest. Minutes of the 16 October meeting were adopted. J. Yeamans was elected meeting chair. The Dean lead discussion on an Alban Institute article “This Thing Called Church,” from A. B. Robinson’s “What’s Theology Got to Do With It?”

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• 3 care facility Communions; Deanery Clericus; 1 funeral; 1 funeral attended; 8 committee/group meetings; congregational meeting 21 November; choir rehearsal 30 November;10 home/hospital visits

• noted: no work review, housing allowance or stipend review in 2023

• Chapter vacancies: Lay Chair | Vice Chair | Property

Diocesan

• 2 meetings of the Synod Finance; over-night Diocesan Council 1/2 Dec

Up-coming

• Spencer funeral 10am 16 Dec; Farraline 12 Dec; Windsor 28 Dec; Christmas Lessons and Carols (b) - 17 Dec; 24 Dec 8am, 4pm, 8pm (b), 11pm (b); 25 Dec 10am (b); 31 Dec 8am, 10:30 am; 01 Jan 11am (b)

DISCUSSION

• 2024 Budget - draft was discussed. Adjustments over the next month with the goal to adopt a proposed budget version in January

DECISION

• That we reimburse K. Schmidt $1500 for an October course on Celtic spirituality

• That the Dean request Bishop’s permission for Michele LeBlanc to administer the chalice in worship and administer Home Communions

• That staff salaries receive a 3% cost of living increase in 2024

• That the stipend of the Dean be $65,976 (3% cost of living increase, $16,906 above the diocesan minimum stipend scale (Regulation 7-2)

• With security cameras and locking system installed at the hall, that we end our contract with Garda Security (one visit per night) at the end of 2023

REPORTS

Treasurer - November reports need revisions for accuracy. Deficit to end of November $46,549. Bookkeeper Ben Bourque resigned in November; engaged Justin McCoy as bookkeeper. Working with Scotiabank on Anglican Church Women BMO shares conversion

Nominating - 4 meetings thus far. 2024 nominations remain to be required

Buildings and Property - R. Crowe graciously offered to be interim chair. 1) Cathedral sprinklers need maintenance ($60,000) in 2024. 2) Hall platform lift is inoperable needing replacement. Exploring grant and other fund possibilities. 3) East window has been repaired ($8257) insurance coverage less deductable ($5219). 4) Leaks inside Cathedral are an ongoing concern. Next meeting 09 January

Christian Formation - Advent programming proceeding. Consideration of Medical Assistance in Dying (Faith Seeking Understanding)

Health / Pastoral Care - assisted Anglican Church Women luncheon. Christmas gifts to be delivered by Cathedral Visitors. Chair of Health Ministries, Sally Dibblee has resigned.

Mission / Outreach - Angel Christmas gifts for children complete. Giving Tuesday exceeded $2000 commitment to school food and winter clothing programme

Worship - committee met in November including discussion/planning for Christmas worship including a possible youth choir. Meeting of Sunday intercessors on 07 November

UPCOMING

• 17 December, 4 p.m. Christmas Lesson and Carols

• 01 January, 11 a.m. New Year’s Day with our Bishop

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 16 October 2023 with 8 of 13 members present. Minutes of the 11 September and 19 June meeting were adopted. J. Yeamans was elected to the chair in the absence of the Lay-Chair. The Dean lead a short discussion following a reading of Philippians 2:1-13 and some reflections on the nature of decision-making by way of Christian discernment. Some references to “The Way of Discernment” (E. Liebert) were considered.

CATHEDRAL SAFE CHURCH

Safe Church Officer Dianne Wilkins visited with an update on recent efforts toward implementing diocesan policy on safe church. V. Hachey and G. Hall offered to be part of a task group to consider next steps

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

• 1 care facility Communion; Diocesan Clergy Conference (18-20 September); ill and absent on Sunday 01 October; 1 committee/group meeting; 1 meeting with assisting clergy and deacons; choir rehearsal 21 September; 1 meeting of the Diocesan Finance Committee.

Up-coming

• 21 October Farraline Place fund-raiser
• 01-12 Diocesan Council development retreat
• 03 December First Sunday of Advent

ITEMS ARISING

• Nominating Committee - J. Hand appointed to the Committee. Members: H. Palmer, J. Hand, K. Schmidt, J. Dunderdale. Chapter requests the Committee meet to attend to current/upcoming business
• Vice-Chair of Chapter - referred to the Nominating Committee
• Property Committee Chair - referred to the Nominating Committee

NEW BUSINESS

• East window repair - recent storm damage to plexiglass panel. Repair estimate $8,257 (Active Glass and Mirror). Insurance ($2500 deductable) claim investigated. Cost charged to property maintenance approved
• Snow removal contract - accepted a proposal for 23/24 winter from Pro-Care of $5,175 + $100 per sanding
• Parish nurse funds - that an investment fund account be created for monies received or accumulated and designated parish nurse

REPORTS

Treasurer - Financial update presented on Sunday, 24 September, 8 and 10:30 a.m.. No specific feedback received. 30 September deficit of expenses over income is $66,580. 2023 income includes Diocesan Synod (Fabric Grant) of $45,000. Unrestricted funds ($60,000) to cover summer cash flow could be returned to unrestricted investment if available at year-end

Administration and Finance - meeting pending

Worship - planning for Christmas upcoming. Server training needs to be planned

Property - several issues have arisen. The Lay-Chair has called a meeting 24 October. Theft of hall furnace exhaust cover was fabricated for replacement and installed with no indication of cost as of yet; east window cover damage, Guild of St. Joseph replaced west door carpeting; cathedral sprinkler system replacement (+/- $175,000) to meet current safety code; hall chair lift out of operation estimated +/- $60,000 repair; security project update; cathedral boiler project; snow removal

Health and Pastoral Care - committee hasn’t met

Mission Outreach - 25 September Monday Outreach - 56 served, volunteers needed for 30 October; 3 Belize Mission scholarships 23/24 to Silvia Trapp, Caleb Martinez and Korey Kelly

Communications - no recent meeting

Christian Formation - meeting scheduled on 19 October

Welcome and Hospitality - Sunday refreshments. Several future events

NEXT MEETING

Monday, 20 November 2023                                                            GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 11 September 2023 with 10 of 13 members present. Minutes of the last meeting were unavailable and will be considered at the next meeting. Members read and briefly discussed “The Ultimate Guide to Delegation” (Nick Blevins) – categories: What to Delegate, To Whom to Delegate, How to Delegate. Resources to Delegate Better and 7 steps to follow included.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

•   Preaching through the Season of Creation 01 September - 4 October; vacation 24 July - 13 August; staff meetings 27 June and 05 September, outside Communions (1), committee/group meetings (2), staff and deacon reviews completed, home visits (3), 3 home/hospital communions, 2 funerals / 1 committal / 2 attended, Evening Prayer Jackson Falls 23 August, July/August Sunday worship attendance (75 avg) - 10 September (106).

•   Vacancies: Chapter Property | Vice-Chair | Nominating

Diocesan

Synod Finance Committee (2)

Up-coming

•   17 September 8:00, 10:30, 4:00 every other week resumes
•   18-20 September - Diocesan Clergy Conference, Renforth

ITEMS ARISING

Bishop’s letters: appointment of Isabel Cutler, Deacon and permission to administer Communion (D. Beek)

DECISION

•   Benevolence Policy - adopted as of 11 September 2023
•   Recognition - Canon Rod Black as Honorary Assistant

DISCUSSION

June Report of Planning Study - Source Alliance returned the final report of the feasibility study (January - May) regarding Cathedral restoration, Our Bishop has one other contact he wishes to make. Cathedral officers and the Bishop considering the next step in light of the current circumstances. Letters of thanks will be sent to planning study participants this week.

REPORTS

Treasurer - Offerings stable but below budget with a 31 August deficit of $55,657. Payroll and Shared Ministry is $36,000 monthly. $9,887 in flow through donations (PWRDF, community ministries etc.) to be transferred. Sunday financial update presentation before the end of September

Administration and Finance - tour guide season has ended with thanks

Worship - no report

Property - noted recent gifts-in-kind with thanks

Health and Pastoral Care - no meeting. Only a few COVID test kits left

Mission Outreach - completed draft Benevolence Policy; Belize Missions Yard Sale for scholarships a success; Mijia’s from Honduras visited 25 June

Communications - no recent meeting. Additional souvenirs were acquired for sale during the summer tour season

Christian Formation - planning for 30 Sept Day of Truth and Reconciliation; Life in the Eucharist postponed to Fall 2024; Godly Play has resumed; discussed possible quiet space on the Green

Welcome and Hospitality - no meeting. 3 committee members + Dean

UPCOMING

•   Nominating Committee - 4-1st term / 1-2nd term vacancies upcoming in 2024. T. Maston (Lay-Chair) plans not to let his name stand for a second term
•   30 September - Day of Truth and Reconciliation
•   21 October - Farraline Gala Fundraiser

NEXT MEETING

Monday, 16 October 2023                                                                GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – June 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 19 June 2023 with 12 of 13 members present. Minutes of the meeting on 15 May 2023 were adopted.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

  • outside corporate Communions (2); committee/group meetings (4); Thy Kingdom Come (18-28 May) Novena weekdays; Ordination (30 May); weekly staff meetings (4); work planning with Director of Music; marriage preparation (1) Wedding (17 Jun); home visits (4); 3 home / hospital communions; 2 Cathedral funerals / 2 attended; Evensong - Installation/Collation (04 Jun); Staff and Deacon reviews underway (3); collaboration with I. Cutler re deacon appointment; generally running behind on pastoral visitation; proposing vacation 24 July - 13 August
  • Recommend publicizing “Help Wanted.” Various needs including: communion administrators; home communions; hospital visitors; lectors; intercessors; servers, website content and maintenance, social media maintenance; others identified by committees
  • Vacancies: Chapter Vice-Chair | Chapter Property | Nominating

Diocesan

  • Synod Finance Committee (1); Diocesan Council (1)

DECISION

  • Appointment recommendation to the Bishop. That we recommend our Bishop consider the appointment of the Rev’d Isabel Cutler, as Deacon at Christ Church Cathedral
  • Administration of Communion. Request our Bishop grant permission for Donna Beek to administer communion.
  • Approve transfer of 400 shares of BMO securities to Diocesan Consolidated Investments (Cathedral Anglican Church Women)
  • move an additional $20,000 unrestricted investments to operating fund for summer cash flow bringing the total to $70,000

DISCUSSION

June Report of Planning Study - Source Alliance having returned the final report of the feasibility study (January - May) regarding Cathedral restoration, Our Bishop chaired this portion of the meeting. The Report suggests an urgency as well as several options for consideration. The Report was shared with members of the Chapter with a request that it not yet be made public. Our Bishop requested some time to make several key contacts and that the Chapter continue in discernment.

REPORTS

Treasurer - May offerings $36,860. Year-to-date deficit to 31 May -$39,739. Summer cash flow deficiency anticipated

Administration and Finance - interview of tour guides this week; June staff reviews underway

Worship - no report

Property - Unforeseen Cathedral furnace repair to be completed in the next few weeks - $34,000 to 38,000 estimated total cost

Health and Pastoral Care - no meeting of purview groups as of yet

Mission Outreach - in process: considering policy for request for benevolent funds; Belize Missions Yard Sale for St. Hilda scholarships; Mijia’s from Honduras visit 25 June

Communications - weddings at the Cathedral website post series; video for St. Saviour Latvia - Night of the Churches event;; Thy Kingdom Come “daily short readings” videos; publicity for current events

Christian Formation - planning for 30 Sept Day of Truth and Reconciliation; fall 2023 Life in the Eucharist

Welcome and Hospitality - assisted with refreshments for a June funeral; Mejia visit refreshments/luncheon 25 June

UPCOMING

NEXT MEETING

  • Monday, 11 September 2023                                                            GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 15 May 2023 with 11 of 13 members present (11 0f 13). A printed version of preaching for the Fifth Sunday of Easter was circulated. (Audio here) Conversation re post-resurrection Sunday themes, contrasting planning from business and a spiritual perspective. Minutes of the meeting on 20 March 2023 were adopted.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral

  • outside Communions (3); committee/group meetings (3); Lenten book study; deaneries clericus; summary of Easter worship - total attendance 245; Vacation 11-25 April; MU Diocesan Rally 29 May; Ordination 30 May; Coronation Evensong 14 May; weekly staff meetings; marriage preparation (2); home visits (4); hospital/home communions (6); 1 funeral/3 funerals attended; challenge in meeting current pastoral needs.
  • Chapter vacancies: Chapter Property Committee, Vice-Chair, Nominating Committee membership.

Diocesan

  • Diocesan Finance Committee (1); Bishop’s Counsel 26 April; Clergy Day 04 May

Up-coming

Ascension Day 18 May; Thy Kingdom Come 18-28 May (Novena weekdays 5:15 p.m.); W. Turney funeral 30 May; V. Sinclair funeral 10 June; Ritz/Saulnier wedding 10 June; Installation of Canons and Collation 11 June; Swanwick/English wedding 17 June

CORRESPONDENCE

  • Anglican Church Women Executive - letter dated 04 May 2023 expressing serious concern about the vacancy of the position of parish nurse and requesting there be a search undertaken to fill the vacancy
  • Canadian Heritage - response to inquiry. Canadian Heritage does not support church heritage renovation projects

DISCUSSION

  • Parish Nurse - high degree of awareness of the need for Cathedral health ministry under our circumstances. The Dean initially responded to the correspondence with the reminder that the parish nurse staff position was included in the 2023 Budget with the hopes that monthly budget targets could be met. Further consideration needed

DECISION

  • Funds transfer - up to $50,000 from unrestricted invested funds to provide for cash flow May to September

REPORTS

Treasurer - 5 Sunday April (including Easter) revenue $50,785, slightly exceeding the budget target of $48,499 for the first time in 2023. The Year to Date deficit of expense over income stands at - $13,594.

Administration and Finance - advertising, training and hire of tour guides is a current priority

Worship - some decorating will be attempted for the Day of Pentecost

Property - no report

Health and Pastoral Care - exploration of possible programming with UNB student nurses

Mission Outreach - helpful first meeting with those engaged in mission and outreach ministries. Progress towards a draft policy to guide our response to requests made for funding

Communications - Chapter and others encouraged to join a schedule of 2 minutes for ministry presentations on Sundays

Christian Formation - exploring creating opportunities as part of advanced planning for the upcoming 2023 Day of Truth/Reconciliation

Welcome and Hospitality - newcomers event with 35+ in attendance Pentecost will include normal refreshments following 10:30 worship

UPCOMING

  • Ascension Day (18 May) and Thy Kingdom Come (18-28 May)
  • Day of Pentecost (28 May)

NEXT MEETING Monday, 16 June 2023

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2023

Bishop and Chapter met on 20 March with members in person and by way of video conference. 12 of 13 members present. Members were asked to read in advance an article from Alban at Duke Divinity SchoolPutting the How Before the What,” Stephen Chapin Garner. Discussion about one church’s experience with a “call-based” approach to leadership, passion and energy for leadership and the importance of putting relationships/community as first priority. What could be identified as a crisis of organizational structure might rather be a crisis of faith. Minutes from a short meeting on 13 February 2023 dealing with the 2023 Budget were adopted.

FROM THE DEAN

Cathedral
•   outside Communions (2)
•   committee/group meetings (4)
•   Monday Lenten book study / dropping in on Lenten programs
•   weekly staff meetings
•   Narrative Budget completed and circulated
•   Vacancies
Chapter Property Committee
Diocesan
•   Diocesan Finance Committee (2)
•   Diocesan Council (1)
Up-coming
•   Vacation 11-25 April

FOR DECISION

• Appointments

- Vice-Chair - nomination to the Bishop needed- Advisory Committee on Appointments - appointed
- Nominating Committee - inquiries for appointment to be made
- Safe Church Officer - Diane Wilkins appointed
- Property Committee - nomination needed for Bishop’s appointment

[for more information see the current Chapter By-Law]

• 2023 Budget - slight discrepancy between Annual Report and Chapter-approved not affecting the bottom line. Motion to correct

REPORTS

  • Treasurer - Financials show a slight surplus having received the grant from the City for summer tour guides. Offerings in January and February slightly below budget. Parish Financial Return due 15 March now submitted.
  • Administration and Finance - helpful update from Envelope Secretary; noted difference in Chapter Budget and Annual adopted version; needs for 23 tour guide programme in view
  • Property - Unexpected Cathedral furnace repairs needed. Early estimated cost $12,000
  • Health and Pastoral Care - Health Ministry has several projects in process: health information session, Medley Tea; on-going: dementia support, Yoga, prayer shawls
  • Mission Outreach - reviewing annual reports and making contact with mission sub-groups and committees (Monday Morning, Belize Missions, Cathedral Missions) Monday Morning Outreach continues monthly with some new support for food contributions
  • Communications - nothing to report
  • Christian Formation - Review of Lenten programming, looking ahead to future. Considering future events on racism, indigenous reconciliation, anti-Semitism
  • Welcome and Hospitality - a committee meeting pending
  • Worship - contacting potential members for servers’ guild

UPCOMING

•   Palm Sunday (02 April) Easter (09 April)
•   29 April Diocesan Mothers’ Union Rally / 30 April Ordination

NEXT MEETING

Monday, 15 May 2023                                                                               GMH