Category Archives: Bishop and Chapter News

Bishop and Chapter News – October 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 15 October 2018 with ten of twelve usual members present. Bishop Edwards joined the Chapter for the first hour. Minutes of the 17 September 2018 meeting were adopted.

Business Arising

• St. Margaret’s Scouts - meetings have moved to the Parish Church.
• Nominating Committee - membership to be appointed and an amendment to Cathedral By-Law to be considered
• Treasurer Address to Congregation - 2 minutes for regarding current financial status to be scheduled in the next few weeks
• Anglican Foundation of Canada - annual contribution of $100 sent
• National Trust Conference - individuals to attend identified

Discussion

Property (re) development. Bishop Edwards was present primarily to share a status update on property issues. The Bishop reminds everyone that with many opinions, ideas and options to consider, things can get complicated, take time and in some cases be costly to investigate. He shares our wish that decisions be made in the very near future. He shared a couple of specific possibilities as to what the next steps could or should be (including one very new). It was agreed that the congregation soon needs to be informed and involved.

From the Dean

The Dean reviewed usual items of commitment since the last meeting. Items of note:
• Discernment Committee - a committee to guide a Cathedral congregational member in discernment leading to ordered ministry in process (Bishop’s office)
• 11 November - is a Sunday. 10 a.m. worship to 9:45 a.m.
• Stewardship - is the management of our resources: skills, talents, assets, time, money. Improved stewardship was identified as a priority item during the 2018 review of the Dean. He suggests our need to be more conscious of improving our stewardship mindset both corporately and individually. He noted that currently no one person or committee in our corporate structure is responsible for issues of stewardship, and asked if this should be addressed.

For Decision

Nominating Committee - In accordance with by-laws a motion was carried appointing the Dean, Catherine Schmidt and Tom Fetter reporting to the Annual Meeting in February. A change in process for future years was presented in the form of an amendment to the by-laws. Going forward it has been proposed that the Committee be elected by the annual meeting rather than by the Bishop and Chapter.
Lou McKnight vacation - additional week granted for 2019.

Reports

• Treasurer - presented the summary financial statement to the end of September. While we can be hopeful that October - December giving will strengthen, we are currently well below our anticipated position to date. Expenses exceed unrestricted income by $92,378 to 3rd quarter.
• Administration and Finance - project items continue: Records management, giving policy, land title migration, lay staff manual, By-Law considerations
• Christian Formation - meeting this week. Fall startup of various programming has materialized as expected
• Health and Pastoral Care - Brief update on current programs and activities. Pledged contributions towards salary of the parish nurse are currently close to the annual target.
• Communications - Chair of Hospitality attended the last meeting to identify some synergies. Regular efforts continue
• Hospitality, Welcoming and Membership - a first meeting held. Welcome strategies and final terms of reference being considered

Up-coming

Diocesan Synod - 03 November; Evensong - 21 October

Next meeting: 19 November 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – September 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 17 September with twelve of twelve usual members present. Minutes of the 18 June 2018 meeting were adopted. The Dean provided an article entitled “Forming an Effective Nominating Committee.” Members of the Chapter discussed our current practices and considered potential improvements.

Business Arising

  • Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - a follow up meeting was held on 15 September with updates on the status of the Project. A small group from the Cathedral will be gathered to consider next steps
  • Mission and Outreach Belize Budget - at this time, it appears the 2018 budget may cover anticipated expense

From the Dean
The Dean reviewed usual items of commitment since June noting that summer seemed unusually busy. Items of note included:

  • pending appointment of Caroline Vanicek as head server
  • first Sunday of October being Thanksgiving, evensong on 14 October
  • up-coming this fall one individual wishing to enter discernment leading to ordination. Discernment committee will be needed
  • 11 November is on Sunday. 10 a.m. worship moved to 9:45 a.m.
  • clergy conference with Hugh Halter attended in August on “Your Church in the Future.” Will share with Chapter in the future

For Decision

Hall usage - after determining that the downstairs hall floor is unsafe, it was decided to inform Scouts Canada to seek other meeting space

Discussion
Property (re) development - a lengthy discussion about status of the conversation regarding Cathedral and Diocesan properties. Bishop’s consultant currently working with the Cathedral on a “future mission plan.” A congregational meeting has been recommended by R. Goodfellow (October). National Trust Conference 18-20 October to focus on religious heritage buildings - diocesan/Cathedral participation

Reports

  • Treasurer - to date, expenses exceed revenue in the amount of approximately $80,000. Compared to last year to date, revenue is down by about $47,000. Considerable concern expressed by members of the Chapter. No conclusions were drawn as to specific causes. Suggestions, including encouraging e-offering and a Sunday presentation by the Treasurer, were made and discussed.
  • Christian Formation - programme in Fall startup: Godly Play, Taizé worship, ALPHA (19 September), Family Faith Fiesta, Youth Groups. A brief overview of our experience with Godly Play was shared
  • Administration and Finance - Odell House and Cathedral Hall properties being migrated this week to land titles. On-going communication with the Diocese regarding creating a policy on giving. Manual being reviewed to re-establish policy for staff
  • Health and Pastoral Care - Programmes resuming. Interest in Fit Club is down. Support group for care givers of those with dementia being created. Brochure in production
  • Communications - Summer projects included neighbourhood invitations to corn boil and other event promotion
  • Property - South door repair still being investigated; investigation of potential a memorial tree planting on the green; lower hall floor has been assessed as unsafe; asphalt repair at west door should happen this month
  • Worship - will call a meeting next month
  • Hospitality, Welcoming and Membership - committee bing formed and will first address terms of reference. Meeting 20 September. Suggestion for larger freezer at the hall to be considered

Up-coming
Bishop’s Town Hall, Fredericton (Canon XXI) 27 September 7:00 p.m.
Archdeaconry Greater Chapter - 18 October
Diocesan Synod - 03 November 2018

Next meeting: 15 October 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – June 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 18 June 2018 with eleven of twelve usual members present. Vice-Chair Charles Ferris chaired. Minutes of the 14 May 2018 meeting were reviewed, items of unfinished business noted and the adopted. Watching the introduction video for “Surprise the World,” the Dean lead a short discussion. How to continue BELLS?

Business Arising

•Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - a group of 10 considered this project following the meeting of the Archdeaconry Greater Chapter in May. Unfortunately, resource persons were unable to be present. There seems to be some lack of clarity about what’s specifically needed if Anglican parishes were to partner. Monitoring continues

•  Mothers’ Union expenses - the amount directed for worldwide MU work by K. Snow was forwarded to the Cathedral Branch
•  Joy FM - the Dean has met twice with representatives and looks forward to a greater degree of partnership with them in the future
•  Frank Morehouse thanks - for work on Fredericton Deans poster
•  Anglican Foundation - a contribution to the Foundation, directed to be annual, has not yet been sent

From the Dean

•  Normal commitments - 2 care home visits for Communion, 4 visits to hospitals, 3 home Communions, 4 staff meetings; Chapter and Committee related meetings; Clergy College, Clergy Day, Diocesan Council, Diocesan Finance Committee, Property Development Committee meeting with 4 teleconferences.
•  Surprise the World: BELLS - sermon series concluding 24 June. 4 in attendance at video night. Ways to continue BELLS?
•  Bishop of Qu’Appelle Bike Ride - hoping to create a 15 July event of worship at 4 pm followed by BBQ on the Cathedral green. JoyFM willing to partner
•  Cathedral worship podcasts - average hits have reached a fairly consistent 60 per day average since listing with TuneIn Radio
•  Cathedral staff annual reviews - underway

For Discussion

“Designated Funds” - Past assumptions about offerings for specific purposes (“designated”) being “saved” need clarification. Monies tagged for purpose to be used first for items currently in the Budget is advice from 2017 review engagement. Further education required.

For Decision

•  Terms of reference - adopted Property and Mission Outreach committees
•  Missions request - a motion to increase 2018 Mission Outreach budget to allow increase of St. Hilda’s School support, graduate bursaries and support for Paul Jones to university was tabled. Offerings down. Funds available will need to be confirmed
•  “Designated Funds” - that we reduce a list of 55 to about 11 to clarify and expedite managing and using offerings given for specific purposes and continue to reduce those funds as possible

Reports

•  Treasurer - offerings are about $30,000 +/- below budget year to date
•  Christian Formation - planning session held. Followup next week
•  Administration and Finance - giving policy in process; records management project continues
•  Health and Pastoral Care - First Aid training 25-26 June. New programming initiatives being considered for fall
•  Communications - 09 September outside worship in view. Conversations with Joy FM should result in positive cooperation
•  Property - green winter kill considered; west door pavement irregularity will be addressed; south door replacement pending

Up-coming

Ordination 24 June 2018; 09 September outdoor worship/corn boil

Next meeting: 17 September 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – May 2018

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Bishop and Chapter NewsBishop and Chapter met on Monday, 14 May 2018 with eight of twelve usual members present. Minutes of the 23 March 2018 meeting were briefly reviewed and adopted. The Dean offered some reflections on the person of the Holy Spirit, prefaced with a reading from the Gospel of John 15.26–27; 16.4b-15 . The gifts of the Holy Spirit, the fruits of the Spirit, biblical images and our understanding of them was discussed.

Business Arising

• Operating funds transfer - the $50,000 recommended and approved for transfer to investment has not taken place. Offerings are currently below budget and operating monies may be required in the next few months
• Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - there has not been any significant progress on this item. The Greater Chapter of the Archdeaconry of Fredericton includes this item of its agenda on 17 May   The Road Home
• K. Snow expenses - expenses incurred for Worldwide Mothers’ Union work have been considered by the Christian Formation Committee which has a recommendation.
• Mission Committee and Outreach Committee - E. Hadley reported the proposed meeting was held with progress on how we might create a group with a broader oversight mandate (Committee on Mission/Outreach)
• Jingle All the Way - donation has been received. Communications in conversation with JoyFM regarding a partnership with potential for mutual benefit

From the Dean

• Normal ministry commitments - 3 care home visits for Communion, 5 visits to hospitals, 2 home Communions, 6 staff meetings; several Chapter and Committee related meetings; Deanery clericus, Diocesan Finance Committee, 2018 Synod Planning, 2 Ad hoc Development Committee meetings with 4 teleconferences.
• Bishop of Qu’Appelle rides through NB in July, National Trust for Canada Conference is 18-20 October; L’Arche Fredericton will utilize facilities for shared meals; Staff reviews during June

For Discussion

Committee Terms of Reference - Progress continues to made in the development of Terms of Reference for Chapter committees. Presented for consideration were terms for Building and Properties, Communications, and Worship. Remaining are: Hospitality, Welcoming and Membership and Mission Outreach.

For Decision

• Terms of reference adopted: Worship; Communications
• The Chapter will make a $100 annual contribution to the Anglican Foundation of Canada
• that $1000 be forwarded to our Mothers’ Union Branch for reimbursement of Worldwide Mothers’ Union work expenses

Reports

• Treasurer
- offerings are about $27,000 below 2017 year to date
- designated funds review by Executive before summer
• Formation - update on programming; formation planning scheduled
• Administration and Finance - giving policy in process; Dean’s photo poster has been completed with thanks to Frank Morehouse
• Health and Pastoral Care - update on current work. First Aid Training being planned for June
• Communications - web team and social media team developing

Up-coming

Pentecost 10:30 worship - 20 May 2018; "Surprise the World" video night - 30 May 2018; BELLS Sermon series 27 May - 3, 10, 17, 24 June;
Ordination 24 June 2018

Next meeting: 18 June 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – March 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 19 March 2018 with ten of twelve usual members present. J. McGarry was welcomed to the Chapter. Minutes of 19 February 2018 regular meeting and 24 February 2018 following the Annual, were reviewed and adopted. The Dean shared a video created by Creation Matters (Diocese of Ottawa) entitled “Mission Per Square Foot” which showcases St. Luke’s Church, Ottawa. This parish is using sacred space in new and creative ways. A discussion followed.

Business Arising
• “Jingle All the Way” - Clarification on donation still pending
• Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - A meeting for members of the Congregation (and Fredericton area churches) is Saturday, 24 March 2018 at the Cathedral Memorial Hall. Area Anglican churches have been invited. All encouraged to attend. <roadhomefredericton.com>
or view the post on the Cathedral web site.

From the Dean
• Normal ministry commitments - 4 home visits, 2 visits to hospital, 2 care home communions, 3 home Communions, diocesan and Cathedral meetings. Preparing for Holy Week and Easter.
• Vacation - 03-16 April 2018

For Discussion
Governance - The Chapter continues to work towards facilitating current terms of reference for its committees. The Executive is continuing to work intentionally with committees either updating existing or creating new versions. The purpose of the documents is to bring greater clarity and transparency to the ministry management structure and assure that communication flows effectively and efficiently within the organization of Cathedral life. Good progress.
Support inquiry - was made about financial support related to Mothers’ Union travel for Kathleen Snow. Christian Formation Committee will explore on behalf of the Chapter.

For Decision
• Terms of reference for the committee on Health and Pastoral Care were adopted
• Terms of reference for the committee on Christian Formation were adopted
• that $50,000 be transferred from the general operating account to investment account where it will gain a return until needed

Reports
• Treasurer

- diocesan financial return for 2017 has been submitted
- renewal with WorkSafeNB
- progress being made in revising coding of accounts
- charities return to Canadian Revenue Agency almost complete and should be submitted this week

• Formation - terms of reference completed. Up-coming Family Faith Fiesta, Godly Play training, intergenerational worship on Good Friday
• Administration and Finance - two forms tabled regarding Safe Church administration
• Health and Pastoral Care - terms of reference completed. Ministries functioning well. Isabel Cutler has been appointed coordinator of the pastoral visitors.
• Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership - working at assembling a committee. Congregational volunteers needed. Contact Lynn Meehan.

Up-coming
Holy Week 25 - 31 March 2018
Easter Sunday regular Sunday schedule

Next meetings:
14 May 2018, 18 June 2018 GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – February 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 19 February 2018 with eight of twelve members present. Minutes of 22 January 2018 were adopted. The Dean offered a short study on Mark 8:31–38, the Gospel for the Second Sunday in Lent. What does taking up our cross mean for us?

Business Arising
• Odell house lease - a lease was signed beginning 01 January representing the on-going agreement with the tenants
• Retirement Gift for Diocesan Treasurer - a cheque for $100 has been issued toward this request
• Welcoming brochure/package - the Hospitality / Welcoming / Membership Committee is acquiring membership
• “Jingle All the Way” - performance was a success. Clarification regarding a donation for use of the church is being sought
• Committee terms of reference - efforts continue to develop current terms for each of the Chapter Committees. By spring, a handbook comprehensively describing the function of committees, staff, policies and other operational documents is the goal
• Ending Homelessness in Fredericton - A meeting for members of the Congregation (and Fredericton area churches) will be scheduled in March. Details will follow. <roadhomefredericton.com>
• Nominating Committee report - One chapter nomination (chair of Buildings and Property Committee) still required. Nominations from the floor will be called for all positions at the Annual Meeting. It was noted that a more effective approach to procuring nominations with an earlier start would be preferred in the future

From the Dean
• Normal ministry commitments - 1 home visit, 2 visits to hospital, care home communions, 10 days in Belize, diocesan and Cathedral meetings. Annual Report completed
• Lenten Study - response was not robust. We’ll attempt to gently encourage the registrations received to join with a sufficient and adequate number of groups
• Vacation - 03-16 April 2018

For Discussion
Annual Meeting - Annual Report is available. Kendra Patrick of Bringloe Feeney will present financials. Child care will be available. Sandwich and finger food luncheon at about 1:00 p.m., Lynn Meehan will prompt arrangements. The Dean will inquire about audio requirements.

Reports
• Treasurer - Review Engagement for 2017 is complete with financials and report included in the Annual Report.
January totals indicate expenses in excess of revenue by $9,353
The completed 2018 Proposed Budget was circulated for information purposes
• Formation - continuing work on Terms of Reference. First Family Faith Fiesta on 18 February had attendance of 60-70.
• Administration and Finance - work on current projects: records management, safe church continues
• Health and Pastoral Care - continuing to address terms of reference. Health Ministry operates efficiently and effectively under the guidance of the Parish Nurse and the structure in place. Isabel Cutler has been appointed by the Dean to coordinate Pastoral Visitors

Up-coming
25 February - Annual Congregational Meeting
23 February, 5 and 12 March - Bishop Hockin Lenten series
Holy Week 25 - 31 March 2018

Next meetings:
18 March 2018
14 May 2018
18 June 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – January 2018

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 22 January 2018 with ten of twelve members present. Minutes of 11 December 2017 were adopted.

Business Arising

• Chapter Vacancy – our Bishop has appointed Lynn Meehan. Lynn will chair the committee on  Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership
• Committee Terms of Reference – members of the Executive continue to work with the committees of the Chapter to develop. Some are in
need of updates while others need to be created. The goal is to have completed this spring
• Annual Reports – a reminder that reports are due by 31 January. Ideally, each committee would report generally on the areas under
their purview with each committee, group or organization providing more specific group reports
• Ending Homelessness – the Chapter recalled the presentation by Penny Ericson including an appeal to the Cathedral to become
involved. A meeting is scheduled for 28 January, 12 Noon at the Parish Church. Another date will be set during March. Cooperation
between the city Anglican parishes is hoped for.

For Discussion

Financial Review Engagement – Kendra Patrick of Bringloe Feeney presented draft financial statements for 2017 and a draft of the letter
with recommendations resulting from the review.
Budget for 2018 – was discussed in depth and modifications recommended and discussed.
Annual Meeting – suggesting that the meeting 25 February begin at 2:00 p.m., preceded by a sandwich/finger food pot luck

Items for Decision

• 2017 Financials – draft was approved
• 2018 Budget – draft approved
• O’Dell House lease – reference was made to a lease effective 01 January 2018 outlining the current rental agreement. J. Morell
approved to sign on behalf of Bishop and Chapter
• Treasurer Retirement – an opportunity to contribute to a retirement gift for the Diocesan Treasurer resulted in a $100 gift

From the Dean

• Normal – 3 home visits, 3 visits to hospital, care home communions diocesan and Cathedral meetings
• Vacation – the Dean has booked vacation 03-16 April.

Reports

• Treasurer – the year 2017 financials show results in the black resulting from a slight increase in giving and some under-spending
• Buildings and Property – a new supplier for fuel at O’Dell House
• Formation – work on Terms of Reference. Taizé worship in Lent coordinated with Taizé at St. Thomas University
• Administration and Finance – Diocesan audit of parishes re Safe Church; grant for tour guides 2018 approved; records management
project continuing
• Communications – ways to assist various groups being explored
• Mission and Outreach – Belize Mission 27 January – 05 February. A St. Hilda’s student scholarship question resolved
• Health and Pastoral Care – health information session 25 January; first aid certification training being planned for late February

Up-coming

27 January – Belize Mission
13 February- Pancake Supper
25 February – Annual Congregational Meeting
16 February, 6 and 12 March – Bishop Hockin Lenten series

Next meetings: 19 February, 18 March 2018

GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – Dec 2017

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 11 December 2017 with ten of twelve members present. Minutes of 20 November 2017 were adopted. The Dean led a reflection on the O Antiphons of Advent which included consideration of associated scripture.

Business Arising

• Cathedral By-Law - amended version as proposed was approved by the Bishop of Fredericton 01 December 2017 and posted to the web
• Safe Church Forms - forms tabled in November with minor revisions to be considered
• Chapter Vacancy - a motion to recommend a Bishop’s appointment of Lynn Meehan as Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership chair
• Committee Terms of Reference - the intention is for the Executive to work with Chapter members to assure that terms of reference exist for each Committee of the Chapter

For Discussion

The Road Home (Fredericton Project to End Homelessness) - Penny Erikson addressed the Chapter about this current project following the “Housing First” philosophy. Possibilities for the Cathedral to be involved were briefly discussed. There will be an appeal to Anglican parishes in and around the City. An information session with more details will be planned during January. Visit the website <roadhomefredericton.com> to explore.

Items for Decision

• Approval of Forms - two forms adopted for use:
- Permission for Personal Health Information Release Form
- Volunteer Information Form

From the Dean

• Normal - 3 home visits, 4 visits to hospital, diocesan and Cathedral meetings
• Seasonal - preparations in process

Reports

• Treasurer - briefed the Chapter on several items:
- update on current financials and the 2017 budget
- thanks and a reminder to be sent to those who pledged support for parish nursing
- requirements for up-coming review engagement in January
- preliminary information preparing a budget for 2018
• Buildings and Property - some additional lighting changes to LED and considering renovation work to Cathedral south door and porch
• Formation - Life in the Eucharist completed, Godly Play, Taizé worship. ALPHA concludes this week.
• Administration and Finance - Records management project continues. Facilitated completion of forms (Decision)
• Mission and Outreach - Belize Mission, progress on Community Kitchen Teams coordination
• Health and Pastoral Care - progress toward budget needs for 2018; Afternoon Tea held on 07 December
• Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership - Lynn Meehan attended as guest and is looking forward to offering leadership in this area

Annual Report - final deadline for reports is 31 January. Committee Chairs to facilitate collection before that date.

Up-coming

17 December - Christmas Lessons and Carols
24 December - 10 am; 4, 8, 11 pm
25 December - 10 am
01 January - 11 am New Years with the Bishop
27 January - Belize Mission

Next meetings:
22 January. 19 February, Annual Meeting 25 February 2018 GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – Nov 2017

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 20 November 2017 with twelve of thirteen members present. Minutes of 16 October 2017 were adopted. The Dean led a brief information sharing and conversation regarding children and Communion. Bishop’s Directive 3.1.2 contains guidelines for practice. A brief overview of Life in the Eucharist was discussed.

Business Arising
• Review Engagement – has been scheduled with accountants for January 2018. This will be a regular part of year end preparation in the future.
• Trust and Endowment Funds – continuing to work with the Stevenson/Eddy report to provide a better accounting structure and presentation of Cathedral funds. The up-coming review will be useful as we better incorporate this information into our financial reporting
• Cathedral By-Law Amendments – a motion to adopt a third draft of proposed amendments was carried. With the signature of our Bishop, the new By-laws will come into force
• Volunteer Position Descriptions – working toward Safe Church regulation compliance, seven descriptions approved
• Chapter Vacancy – a continuing search for a member to chair the Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership Committee of the Chapter.
• 2018 Stipend – at the request of the Dean and in accordance with diocesan requirements, a decision was made regarding the Dean’s stipend for the coming year: 5% increase (minus a cost of living increase in the 2018 minimum stipend scale)

Items for Decision
1. Nominating Committee – the Dean and two appointed lay members of the Chapter (Sally Dibblee and Kevin Percy) one of whom will be the chair. Three member terms expire this year, two of which may be renewed for another three year term. Three delegates to Synod (two adults, one youth) and their substitutes will needed for election, Nominations invited.
2. Committee terms of reference – some Chapter committees lack terms of reference. Some remaining organizational challenges. Executive will work with committees to clarify over the next couple of months.

From the Dean
• Normal – 6 home visits, 5 visits to hospital, several home/hospital Communions, 1 funeral, diocesan and Cathedral meetings including Life in the Eucharist and Belize mission
• Request for use of Green – an inquiry has been received about using the green north of Queen for a Saturday community event in the summer of 2018 or 2019. A formal proposal to be received

Reports
• Treasurer – financials to 31 October presented and considered. Internal income above normal due to the “Fabric Grant” and a Development grant for Christian Formation from the Synod
• Buildings and Property – lawn signs installed, Cathedral insulation
• Communications – Two Minutes for Cathedral Ministry
• Formation – Life in the Eucharist, Godly Play, Taizé worship
• Administration and Finance – Records management
• Mission and Outreach – Belize Mission, Soup Kitchen coordinator needed
• Health and Pastoral Care – Information Session on Dying
• Worship – Workshop on reading scripture 28 October (attendance 30)
• Hospitality/Welcoming/Membership – in need of leadership

Up-coming
03 December – Advent Lessons and Carols
17 December – Christmas Lessons and Carols
24 December – 10 am; 4, 8, 11 pm
01 January – 11 am New Years with the Bishop

Next meetings:
11 December; 22 January. Annual 25 February 2018 GMH

Bishop and Chapter News – Oct 2017

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Bishop and Chapter met on Monday, 16 October 2017 with twelve of thirteen members present. Minutes of 18 September 2017 were adopted. The Dean led a brief study of the Gospel from the previous Sunday lectionary (Matthew 22:1-14). Those invited to the wedding banquet rejected the gracious invitation. Others took it lightly. Many are called, few are chosen.

Cathedral / Diocesan Properties Update

Bishop Edwards offered a concise update on progress with ongoing deliberations of the ad hoc Committee. To date, several meetings with City officials, several meetings of the ad hoc group and others. Next steps include verifying that a project as envisioned is viable and executing an engagement process with “the community” (congregation, neighbourhood, City and Diocese) with the goal of obtaining support, input and guidance. Our location makes this a sensitive endeavour.

Business Arising

• Cathedral Trust Funds/Endowments - Justice Ron Stevenson, with the assistance of Bruce Eddy QC, were engaged by Administration and Finance Committee to review the history and current status. An exhaustive and extensive report was returned in September with sincere thanks. Report received for the Chapter’s consideration. Recommendations arising to be discussed at next meeting.
• Cathedral By-Laws - a 3rd draft of proposed changes circulated
• Financial Audit - Decision item below
• Stipend of the Dean - to be addressed prior to 2018
• Chapter Vacancy - Hospitality/Welcoming. A committee chair is currently a high priority need

Items for Decision

1. Financial Audit- motion carried to engage the firm of Bringloe Feeney LLP to conduct a review engagement on 2017 financials, 22-26 January 2018 with report to the Chapter and the Annual Meeting

From the Dean

• Normal - 8 home visits, 4 visits to hospital, 1 funeral, 16 diocesan and Cathedral meetings
• Hospitality/Welcoming - our lack of protocol and process for welcoming new-comers and their assimilation needs to be of concern. The lack of an individual to lead this ministry as a member of the Chapter is significant to congregational health and growth

Reports

• Treasurer - financials to 30 September presented and considered. Income and expenses are both below amounts budgeted. If we continue close to budget on both, a year-end deficit is unlikely
• Communications - 2 minutes for Cathedral ministry being scheduled. Lawn sign replacement in progress.
• Health and Pastoral Care - up-coming events include a health information session, Fit Club restart
• Worship - Reading Scripture in Public - 28 October
• Christian Formation - Godly Play, Life in the Eucharist, Taize worship
• Property - considering options for restoration of Cathedral south doors. Insulation over choir room and sacristy pending
• Mission Outreach - mission to Belize a current emphasis. Monday outreach continues
• Administration and Finance - Safe Church volunteer position descriptions and forms for volunteers to be tabled for the Chapter’s approval in November. Records management review continues

Up-coming

Medley Poems by Robert Hawkes Book Launch and Evensong - 05 November; Baptism preparation begins this week

Next meetings:

20 November; 11 December; 22 January. Annual 25 February 2018

GMH