Category Archives: Bishop and Chapter News

Bishop and Chapter News – December 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 16 December 2019 with nine of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the November 2019 meeting were adopted as circulated. The Dean offered some reflections on the process of narrative budgeting referring largely to a version of an article by Susan Graham Walker - “How to write a narrative budget.” Considerable discussion yielded consensus that a narrative budget project would be beneficial to us with a delivery target of the congregational annual meeting in 2021. The Dean will refer to Cathedral Stewardship Team.

Correspondence
• No response as yet to a reply to the request to use the green for an upcoming RCR FROSTival event involving the military
• $1000 gift received from the estate of Sheila Laidlaw (Belize Missions)

Business Arising
• Christmas memories - post preparation in process by the Communications Committee for sharing on the website prior to Christmas
• Director of Music - Thomas Gonder will arrive mid-January to begin in the position. A letter of employment has been completed.
• Housing First project - City Council approvals have been completed. Next step is transfer of land to the Cathedral. The Cathedral group will need to meet to attend to details, including legal and insurance issues. Completion of construction is estimated to be mid to late summer 2020.
• Cathedral Restoration Fund by law - remains as an item for attention in the near future by Administration and Finance Committee
• 10:00 a.m. Sunday refreshments - in consultation with Worship and Welcome Hospitality committees, S. Dibblee to initiate discussion

From the Dean
Report on normal activities, pastoral and liturgical duties.

Discussion
• 2020 Budget - draft 2. Budgeting progress includes good response from committees regarding anticipated ministry next year. Discussion identified several important questions regarding the budget strategy including: how to represent shortfall compared to anticipated offering in 2020. Chapter recommended a small budget team to meet in early January (with 2019 year-end results) to give further consideration, reporting to the Chapter 13 January meeting. Dean to initiate.

Reports
• Treasurer - positive November (tithing Sunday) and a slight strengthening of average offerings since, the running deficit has been somewhat reduced. With seasonal generosity in December, the hope is that revenues will come close to expenses year-end.
• Welcome and Hospitality - six large congregational events during the past year, well received and supported. Committee membership is needed. Inquiries regarding expectations at Annual meeting time
• Health and Pastoral Care - written report read. Normal ministries continue. Up-coming consideration about future Healing Services. Some discussion about possible refreshments for 10 a.m. Sundays.
• Christian Formation - Faith Alive, (confirmation, reaffirmation and reception) currently about 25 participants and is the present main focus
• Communications - door hangers for Carol Sing and Christmas worship delivered to the neighbourhood. On-going maintenance of networks including website and social media
• Mission and Outreach - St. Hilda’s, Belize support transfer of $1000 this month. Housing First. Monday outreach Christmas 16 December
• Worship - new Director of Music 16 January. Carol Sing 18 December

Up-coming
• Christmas Lessons and Carols - 22 December
• 29 December - 10:00 a.m. Carols for Christmas
• 01 January - 11:00 a.m. New Years Day with the Bishop
• 04 January - 11:00 a.m. Our Bishop’s wedding
• 23 February - Annual (10:30 a.m. worship, luncheon and meeting)

Next meetings: 13 January; 10 February

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 18 November 2019 with nine of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 16 September 2019 were adopted. A lack of a quorum in October resulted in information sharing and discussion with no official business. A short discussion about the Growing in Giving stewardship initiative and a review of the fourth circulation: “Top ten truths of biblical giving”

Correspondence

• Request to use the green - for an upcoming RCR FROSTival event
• Request to consider - a partnership on the Fredericton Soldier Biography History Initiative (NB Archives). More information to follow

Business Arising

• Calithumpians - memorandum of understanding and rental agreement for two rooms at Memorial Hall was completed and occupancy began in early November
• August gift - temporarily restricted to be invested
• Greater Chapter - prior to Synod 2019. Several changes to diocesan canons including direction about corporations retaining copies of insurance policies and requirements on reporting restricted funds

Decision

• Green request - by consensus it was agreed to permit use of the green on the north side of Queen Street by the Royal New Brunswick Regiment FROSTival event 25 January 2020. Inquiry about a potential contribution to Cathedral ministry and public recognition suggested
• 2019 Review engagement - that Bringloe Feeney LLP accountants be asked to perform the third party review of 2019 financials.

Discussion

• 2020 Budget - Chapter committees and the groups and organizations under their purview are asked to give consideration to budget requirements for the coming year. A preliminary budget was discussed with an early forecast provided by the Treasurer. There was discussion about the challenges that arise due available resources, especially in areas where we may need or should make changes in our level of investment in ministry initiatives to better reach into communities
•  Sunday Refreshments - suggested investigation about possibility with 10:00 a.m. Sunday

Reports

• Treasurer - While a deficit still exists, Tithing Sunday (03 November) will have had a positive impact on year end. The Treasurer offered a mid November report which helped capture some of the offering activity early in November
• Hospitality and Welcome - There continues to be need for commitments for welcomers during Sunday worship. The goal is to have at least one individual scheduled at each time
• Administration and Finance - work continues to implement the policy on records management. The Committee will work with the Treasurer over the next several weeks as we continue to clarify reporting and prepare next year’s budget
• Christian Formation - Confirmation, Reaffirmation and Reception preparation will begin in early December. Expressions of interest still being accepted. A work plan for the coming year will be on the agenda this month
• Communications - working with Worship on the possibility of a Carol Sing in December. Weekly Gleaner ad has been stopped by parishes of the Fredericton and York deaneries. Christmas promotions being considered. Content for website is requested
Mission and Outreach - City approvals for Housing First homes in process. Cathedral’s project expected to be complete by late spring, early summer
Worship - offer of employment made to a new Director of Music with verbal acceptance to begin 03 January 2020.

Up-coming

• Lessons and Carols - 01 December (Advent), 22 December (Christmas)
• 29 December - 10:00 a.m. Carols for Christmas
• 01 January - 11:00 a.m. New Years Day with the Bishop
• 04 January - 11:00 a.m. Our Bishop’s wedding
Next meetings:    16 December, 13 January; 10 February

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 16 September 2019 with ten of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 17 June were adopted with two explanatory addenda. The Dean led a brief conversation on the article “How I lead from the middle” by Natasha Jamison Gadson (Faith and Leadership).

Correspondence - letter of thanks from Hank Williams

Business Arising

• Letters - of appreciation were sent to Hank Williams, Norma Jean Belyea and Nathan Cutler

From the Dean

A usual report of activities and commitments including attendance at General Synod, 09-17 July and two weeks of vacation in August.

Decision

• Records Management Policy - a final draft presented with thanks to Marion Beyea and others who have worked on this project. The policy and its schedules create a framework and direction to staff and leaders regarding records retention and filing

• August gift - a gift of $41,670 has been received. $15,000 directed to organ restoration. The remaining $26,670 to be held as investment until a decision is made on its use at year end. Letter of thanks to be sent.

• Steeple repair - Property Committee to pursue a potentially costly repair on the steeple (could be up to $20,000)

• Stewardship - initiative during October/November including a Tithing “demonstration” Sunday, 03 November was endorsed by the Chapter

Discussion

Calathumpians partnership - the Cathedral has been approached about rental of space in the lower floor of the Hall. Memorandum of Understanding will be prepared for consideration in October. With general agreement to the idea, a variety of details was discussed, including the need to consult with our Safe Church Officer. J. Morell and S. Dibblee will meet with Peter Pacey to move this forward

Reports

• Treasurer - June to August income for operations: $124.191. Expenses: $144,108 increasing our operating deficit to 31 August to $73,986.

• Health and Pastoral Care - several regular programmes have begun the fall. Health information session up=coming in October. K. Snow will be away 19 September - 03 October.

• Property - Odell House sale complete, funds to be invested with interest towards clergy accomodation costs. On our green, two trees need to be removed and others to be trimmed the City. Steeple repair pending could be a significant cost but will be executed

• Hospitality and Welcome - June Picnic and Pies and September corn boil were successful events. Thanks to all who assisted. Scheduled welcomers at Sunday worship times still needed. Training available

• Administration and Finance - Records Management Policy presented and adopted. Stewardship Team (Mike Toole, Chair) proposing an emphasis on stewardship education during October and November.

• Christian Formation - the recent meeting reviewed start-up dates for programmes. ALPHA begins 25 September. Godly Play 22 September

• Communications - the usual communications plan to invite our neighbours was followed for the June and September events. Items of interest to tourists were sold again during the summer with some profit realized. Writers and photographers always welcome to cover cathedral activities and events

Mission and Outreach - Monday drop-ins resumed following specific summer dates. Housing First home construction anticipated by spring. The Cathedral is represented on the new CivicTech Caring Calendar

Up-coming

• 21 September - 8:30 a.m. Breakfast
• 23 October - 7:00 p.m. Fredericton Greater Chapter
• 03 November - Tithing “demonstration” Sunday

Next meetings:    21 October; 18 November; 16 December                 GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – June 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 17 June 2019 with nine of a usual twelve members present. In the absence of the Chair, Canon Charles Ferris was in the chair. Minutes of the 13 May were adopted. The Dean led a brief review of the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity. A video clip of a Q&A with Christian apologist Ravi Zacharias was viewed.

Business Arising

  • Housing First Initiative - Penny Ericson visited the meeting. The Fredericton Housing First Services has made a request for proposals to which the Cathedral has responded. Estimated time line is completion November 2019. We now await confirmation of acceptance
  • Giving Policy - most recent draft presented. The Policy includes Appendix of established funds, Gift, and Gift in Kind Information Forms.

From the Dean

The usual reporting on routine ministry commitments. Items of note: continue to work towards resolution to the need for a Verger; there is need for an individual to take the position of Cathedral Treasurer – perhaps the Nominating Committee needs to be engaged?; recognitions of retiring individuals and new ministry of Deacon Debbie Edmondson on 23 June; request for the Cathedral to meet with representatives of a current Visioning Committee from Wilmot United Church; absence during up-coming General Synod 09 - 17 July.

Decision

  • Housing First - motion carried to proceed with three home proposal, property corner of Albert and Regent. Cathedral Housing First Committee Terms of reference adopted, P. Ericson, Chair
  • Giving Policy - approved as submitted by Administration and Finance Committee. Giving Policy available from the Cathedral website.
  • Recognitions - the Chapter noted the retirement of our Envelope Secretary and Verger and the departure of Isabel and Nathan Cutler voting letters of thanks to all

Reports

  • Treasurer -may unrestricted income: $36,952 May expenses $56,583. May deficit: ($16,377). Half HST charity refund for 2018 received
  • Health and Pastoral Care - word of Cutler’s departure. Training for AED usage being planned. B. Toole and D. Radford co-ordinating Helping Hands. Hospital visitors meet later this month.
  • Property - Odell House sale in process. Awaiting repair of Cathedral west door asphalt entry. Breach in steeple roof has been viewed by drone and a plan for its remediation is in process
  • Hospitality and Welcome - 23 June “Picnic and Pies” planning continues. There is need for task teams to assist. Welcomers continue to be needed for Sunday mornings
  • Administration and Finance - giving policy submitted. Records management project coming to completion. A stewardship task group is working towards strategy(ies) for improving our current circumstances - Mike Toole is the chair. Safe Church training under consideration
  • Christian Formation - recent meeting compiled a list of start-up dates for the Fall. Continuation of current programming with some new initiatives on the horizon including an opportunity for confirmation / reaffirmation of faith
  • Communications - door hanger invitations for 23 June to be delivered in the neighbourhood this coming week. Appeal for material for the Cathedral website to keep its content fresh and inviting. JoyFM will likely partner for the September corn boil

Up-coming

Next meetings: 16 September; 21 October; 18 November; 16 December

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 13 May 2019 with eleven of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 18 March meeting were adopted. The Chapter read the Gospel for the coming Sunday (Easter 5 - John 13:31–35) and briefly discussed the mystery and miracle of resurrection.

Business Arising

•  Committee work plans - a reminder and encouragement to Chapter committees to complete work plans for the coming year
•  Committee minutes - a reminder that minutes in digital format for 2018 need to be sent to the Cathedral office for filing
•  Housing First Project - no specific update was available. During the following week some movement and progress is noted and TBA
•  Annual Meeting - members debriefed regarding the 24 February meeting. Anecdotal comments from various sources were shared. L. Meehan will work towards devising a tool to solicit congregation feedback on specific questions to inform planning in the future

From the Dean

The Dean offered a usual report of actions on behalf of the Cathedral and Diocese. Some specific comments about the Conference of North American Deans. A web site post summarizes the event. Planning will need to proceed promptly if outside worship is to be part of the schedule leading up to summer. Michael Frost (Five Habits) will preach on 16 June An ordination is scheduled, 23 June 2019, 4:00 p.m.

Decision

The Chapter agreed to finalize the application to the Diocesan Property Committee and to list Odell House with the chosen realtor as soon as possible. It is recommended that the lawyer handling property migrations might handle details of the property sale

Reports

•  Treasurer - in the absence of the Treasurer, the financial statements to 30 April were received, noting the deficit for April of $11,627 and year to date $39,029
•  Worship - service of healing and wholeness on 11 May with increased attendance. A meeting will be called soon
•  Health and Pastoral Care - current programmes continue as usual and expected
•  Property - Odell House sale moving forward. Cathedral west door problem needs further investigation and repair. Breach in steeple roof needs to be investigated and repaired
•  Hospitality and Welcome - committee will begin to consider special events, including upcoming potential outdoor worship opportunties. Some response to request for worship welcomers but more are needed
•  Mission / Outreach - summer Monday morning outreach once per month. Belize Alumni Dinner 25 May. Awaiting further information on Housing First initiative
•  Administration and Finance - giving policy almost complete. Records management project coming to completion. Safe Church training is being reconsidered with the help of Ecclesiastical Insurance
•  Christian Formation - work plan submitted for the Chapter’s information. Recognition of the need for more advanced planning in order to facilitate good communication and optimal participation
•  Communications - meeting scheduled for the coming week. Will consider future worship and on-going items

Up-coming

02 June - 4 p.m. Choral Evensong
14-15 June - Deep Roots - Spiritual Development Gathering
23 June - potential outside worship and church picnic on the Green
08 September - potential outside worship and corn boil

Next meeting: 17 June

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 18 March 2019 with seven of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 11 February meeting were adopted. In the absence of the Chair and Vice-Chair, the meeting elected the Dean to the chair. The Dean led members in consideration of information about the vocational diaconate as it exists in the Diocese of Fredericton with reference to the 2016 Iona Report and the status of the diaconate in the Anglican Church of Canada.

Business Arising

• Committee work plans - some committees have current plans. All encouraged to work towards the goal for their respective groups

•  Committee minutes - a reminder that minutes in the sole possession of committees should be sent to the Cathedral Office for filing

•  Housing First Project - S. Mayo offered an update on recent developments. Project leadership has asked the Cathedral to potentially submit a project application to facilitate available government funding. A group needs to be assembled to oversee the Cathedral’s specific housing first property ownership

•  Annual Meeting - members debriefed regarding the 24 February meeting. Anecdotal comments from various sources were shared. L. Meehan will work towards devising a tool to solicit congregation feedback on specific questions to inform planning in the future

Correspondence

•  From the Executive Director of the National Trust for Canada with thanks for the use of our facilities and our participation in various aspects of the October 2018 Conference

•  Letters of Bishop appointments of B. Greenwood and K. Percy to the Chapter

•  Thanks from Kathleen Snow on congratulations re Mothers’ Union

•  2019 Town Tour Promotional information from the Calithumpians

From the Dean

Normal duties reported. A request to be made of our Bishop to appoint an individual in deacon’s orders to Cathedral ministry. Plans to attend the Conference of North American Deans 02-05 May 2019. Lenten studies continue.

Discussion

Welcoming initiative and growing the congregation - led by L. Meehan. How has our recent emphasis on welcoming been received? While newcomers obviously appreciate the opportunity to connect, regulars also note the changed atmosphere when we are intentionally welcoming. How might we continue to make this a priority with the knowledge that it could have significant impact on growth? Several thoughts were discussed. There is a specific need for more volunteers to be welcome teams at the various Sunday worship times. The conversation prompted some other ideas and possible directions.

Brief discussion by way of orientation for new members S. Mayo (Mission/Outreach) and C. Macdonald (Worship). Work plans, terms of reference and recent history would be of help

Reports

•  Treasurer - in the absence of the Treasurer, the financial report to the end of February 2019 was reviewed. Expenses continue consistently $7000- 8,000 +/- over income per month so far this year.

•  Worship - intent to gather a small group to discuss Easter worship. Service for Healing and Wholeness 09 March considered success

•  Health and Pastoral Care - Leaving in April, Carole Hines has resigned as coordinator of Helping Hands. An automated electronic defibrillator (AED) has been purchased for the Cathedral

Up-coming

07 April, 4 p.m. Choral Evensong (Guilds of St. Joseph)
14 April - Palm Sunday and the beginning of Holy Week
21 April - Easter Day, 8, 10, and 11:45 a.m.

Next meetings: 13 May; 17 June                                                              GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – February 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 11 February 2019 with twelve members present. Minutes of the 21 January were adopted. An article, “Joyful Stewardship” by Linda Buskirk (Episcopal Church Foundation) was discussed. The Chapter agreed on the value of developing a stewardship statement to help guide a culture of joyful stewardship in the future

Business Arising

  • Road Home letter of intent - Cathedral intent to be involved as a partner has been expressed. Project awaiting news on federal government funding
  • By-Law update - completed, filed, distributed and posted to the web
  • Committee work plans - template created to be shared with members
  • Project 2045 - inaugural meeting held. Monthly meetings on the last Monday of the month will follow

From the Dean

Usual commitments maintained. Meeting re World Day of Prayer planning, chapter committees when possible, focus on annual reporting. With an intention of attending the conference of North American Deans in May, there may be a possibility of scheduling some vacation at a different time this year but will advise

For Decision

  • 2018 Financials- Kendra Patrick (Bringloe Feeney Accounting) was in attendance to review year end reports. Following review, the draft statements were approved and, with the management letter (review engagement report) will be included in the report to the 2019 Annual. This is the second year under review engagement so processes for clarity are still being modified
  • 2019 Budget - finalizing the budget. Questions about comparisons with 2018 budget actuals matching financials resulted in agreement on the need for some further investigation, which the treasurer will see to. regarding the accounting restricted funds used and issues of possible depreciation not recognized by budget numbers
  • Congratulations - to Kathleen Snow on election to the Board of Trustees of the Worldwide Mothers’ Union

Discussion

2019 Annual Meeting - plans for Annual meeting reviewed

Reports

  • Nominating - progress on securing nominations is difficult
  • Administration and Finance - Diocesan Stewardship Officer Mike Briggs met with committee to discuss a draft giving policy and stewardship in general. A stewardship task group has been created. An automated external defibrillator to be purchased
  • Christian Formation - review of purpose and goals of the Family Faith Fiesta, “Do I Have to Kneel” event reported on website
  • Communications - continue with facilitating committee reports for Annual, maintaining social media and web communications
  • Welcoming and Hospitality - pilot of welcome initiative struggling for signups for welcomers. Taking the lead in planning for Annual meeting event
  • Property - Odell House sale preparation. An issue with the boiler at the Cathedral is being identified
  • Mission/Outreach - Monday morning dropin continues. Belize scholarships being administered. Dessert and Games 17 February to support Belize scholarships
  • Health and Pastoral Care - One pastoral visitor has stepped down. Service of Healing and Wholeness. 09 March, 5 p.m.

Up-coming

17 February - Dessert and Games Night
24 February - 10:30 a.m. worship, luncheon, Annual Meeting
03 March - World Day of Prayer
05 March Pancake Supper; 06 March - Ash Wednesday

Next meetings: 18 March; 13 May; 17 June

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – January 2019

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 21 January 2019 with ten of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 17 December meeting and notes from the 14 January were adopted. The Dean offered some reflections on the church liturgical year and specifically the Feast of the Presentation (Candlemas), reading from Luke 2:22-38.

Business Arising

• Road Home letter of intent - no update
• By-Law update - the December 2017 version will be modified with nominating committee details
• Lower hall floor - repair completed
• Committee work plans - most committees working toward finalizing
• Thanks to E. Saunders - thanks have been communicated
• Letter of thanks - template for letter to large gift donors TBD
• Welcoming - Chapter members encouraged to assist by signing up to be welcomers. Spots have been added for welcomers on Sundays

From the Dean

Usual commitments during the past month both Cathedral and diocesan. Christmas attendance about 550. Many to do’s at this time of year with year end requirements: annual returns, reporting. Working toward further clarifications and simplification of financial reporting. Committees and groups asked to submit 2018 minutes or notes

For Decision

• 2019 Budget - the current draft was accepted with minor revisions. Most committees have reduced amounts in an attempt to balance income and expenses. Based on 2018 revenue, a significant deficit would seem likely in 2019.
• Project 2045 - task force to address the future of the Cathedral and Memorial Hall, terms of reference and membership adopted

Discussion

2019 Annual Meeting - Hospitality/ Welcoming and Communications proposed a plan for a new format annual meeting on 24 February. One 10:30 a.m. worship followed by a luncheon, meeting to begin at about 1:00 p.m.. Committees all asked to provide 2 minute presentations on 2018 accomplishments and a look ahead to 2019. Chapter agreed and will support the plan.

Reports

• Nominating - nothing to report
• Administration and Finance - meeting with the Diocesan Stewardship Officer soon. Records management and giving policy projects continuing
• Christian Formation - Cathedral revealed event 27 January. Strategic planning will form the framework of the 2019 work plan
• Communications - continuing with usual efforts with Facebook and web site
• Welcoming and Hospitality - current trial of welcoming initiative of Sundays at 8, 10 and 11:45 a.m. going well with a need for volunteers with the need for volunteers, especially at 10 am . Planning for Annual Meeting new format
• Property - proceeding with preparations to sell O’Dell House. Lower hall floor repaired.
• Mission/Outreach - programs continue. Belize Missions Dessert and Games Night 17 February. No Road Home project update
• Health and Pastoral Care - budget prepared. Meeting next week
• Worship - additional budget request for flowers and ribbons for Christmas wreaths. Need to review internal communications re memorial flower gifts

Up-coming

17 February - Belize Missions Dessert and Games night
24 February - 10:30 a.m. worship, luncheon, Annual Meeting

Next meetings: 11 February, 24 February Annual Congregational Meeting at 1:00 p.m.; 18 March

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – December 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 17 December 2018 with eight of a usual twelve members present. Minutes of the 19 November meeting were adopted. The Dean lead discussion on the Gospel for Advent 4, Luke 1:39-55, the Song of Mary, highlighting its prophetic and subversive characteristics.

Business Arising

• Road Home letter of intent - being finalized for sending
• By-Law update - the December 2017 version needs to be modified with nominating committee details and signed by the Bishop
• Lower hall floor - beginning of repair to begin this week
• Hall kitchen refrigerator and freezer - installed. Refrigerator purchased; upright freezer donated with our thanks
• J. Edwards memorial - sent to Parish of Fundy and the Lakes. Letter of condolence sent to our bishop
• Thanks to E. Saunders - letter still to be sent

From the Dean

The Dean briefly reviewed the past month and pointed to up-coming events. Particular reference to the welcoming initiative underway and success of the 12 December Carol Sing

Correspondence

• ACW thanks - letter received following the Anglican Church Women Sunday, the Reign of Christ, 25 November.

For Decision

• Stipend and salaries - 2019 Diocesan scale of minimum stipends increases by 2.5% (cost of living). Dean’s stipend set at $58.824 ($16,607 above minimum) $1500 housing and $350 car replacement per month. Staff salaries to increase by 2.5% 2019
• Safe Church Officer - adoption of the position description and the appointment of Michael Toole, effective immediately
• O’Dell House sale - the Property Committee empowered to make preparations for the sale of the property advisedly in the spring of 2019. By diocesan policy, such funds are held for purposes of clergy living accommodation - interest can be used for housing allowance

Discussion

2019 budget - +/- $75,000 deficit looks likely for 2018. Current revenue not meeting expenditures. Many costs are 'fixed.' Key questions include: How much increase in weekly offerings is reasonable? Should revenue be supplemented with trust funds? Staff or facility reductions? 14 January special budget meeting, 2019 budget to be finalized at the regular January meeting.
Committee work plans - recommended that each committee create early in the new year a work plan for the next twelve months

Reports

• Treasurer - We continue to carry an excess of expenses compared to revenue. While it is possible to balance year end by spending down on unrestricted investments, the goal would be that we pay our way
• Administration and Finance - work on current items continue: records management, giving policy, new safe church officer
• Christian Formation - family faith fiesta, Taizé, DYI (young adults), Godly Play, youth groups all successfully functioning
• Communications - good feedback on Carol Sing and Christmas publicity efforts
• Welcoming and Hospitality - 16 December was the beginning of the new trial welcoming initiative. Adjustments until mid-February
• Property - lower hall floor, monitoring steeple roofing issue, O’Dell House sale issues, repaired west door asphalt has cracked again

Up-coming

23 Dec - Lessons and Carols; Christmas Eve 4, 8, 11 p.m.; Christmas Day 10 a.m.; New Years Day with our Bishop and reception 11 a.m.

Next meetings: 14 and 21 January, 11 February, Annual Congregational Meeting 24 February GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – November 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 19 November 2018 with eight of a usual twelve members present. The Dean lead discussion on an article “Financial Transparency” from the Episcopal Church Foundation.

Business Arising

• Nominating Committee - membership: C. Schmidt, T. Fetter and G. Hall. Working to secure nominations for 2019 elections
• Verger resignation - having been received for 30 June
• Sexton’s employment letter - has been updated with the modification three weeks vacation
• National Trust Conference - several members of Chapter and others were able to attend. Some important contacts, next steps pending. The Bishop’s “joint ad hoc group” with representation from the Cathedral and Diocesan Synod has been dismissed with thanks

From the Dean

The Dean reviewed usual items of commitment over the past month noting seasonal worship and events up-coming:
• Christmas worship schedule as usual: Christmas Eve 4, 8, 11 p.m.; Christmas Day 10 a.m.. Advent Procession 02 December; Christmas Lessons and Carols 23 December
• Community Christmas Carol Sing Wednesday, 12 December 7 p.m. an opportunity to invite family and friends.

For Decision

• Lower hall floor - repairs to deteriorated tiles to address health and safety to be done as soon as possible, as professionally recommended and at a cost of $7000-8000 (from Hall renovation fund)
• Hall refrigerator -to be replaced (about $6219) after quotes reviewed)
• By-Law re Nominating Committee - a motion was carried finalizing revision to make election of the committee by the annual meeting
• Welcoming and Hospitality - terms of reference adopted. Work plan offered is perhaps a potential model for committees
• Gift thanks - having received a gift of $10,394 from Ethel Saunders the Chapter carried a motion to send our thanks
• J. Edwards Memorial - that we make a gift of $100 in memory of our Bishop’s wife, Janet and send a letter of condolence
• The Road Home Project - that The Cathedral send a letter of intent to pursue joining the Housing First initiative with four Cathedral units in 2019. Information to come

Reports

• Treasurer - October - Revenue: $44,499, Expenses $39,573 Year-to-Date: Offering $34,860 below 2017; Expenses $53,443 above 2017. A rebate of $3000 from the Diocesan Synod (clergy travel pool and employee benefit payments).
All committees considering 2019 budgets
• Administration and Finance - work on current items continue: Cathedral records management, giving policy, safe church
• Christian Formation - current programs being monitored with some new initiatives to be considered soon (possible congregation retreat)
• Health and Pastoral Care - Good response to health information session on 03 November. Individual pledges in support of Parish Nursing continue to come in and are appreciated
• Communications - Gearing up for Christmas events. Potential for neighbourhood invitation to Carol Sing on 12 December
• Welcoming and Hospitality - several welcome initiatives being rolled out: for Sundays including welcome desk (Cathedral Connections), signage, welcoming volunteers and a welcome kit
• Property - current issues: hall refrigerator, lower hall floor, steeple roofing breach (potentially costly), vandal severed lightning rod copper repair ($317?), O’Dell House balcony repair in the spring

Up-coming

Bishop Hockin Advent Series; seasonal events and worship as reported

Next meetings: 21 January, 11 February, Annual Meeting 24 February

GMH