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ANNUAL PARISH REPORT 2013
ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
18001 Detroit Avenue
Lakewood, Oh 44107
(216) 226-1772
(216) 226-0354 FAX
The Reverend G. Keith Owen, II, Rector
VESTRY & OFFICERS
Gina Massetti, Senior Warden; Jim Klomfas*, Junior Warden;
Pam Darling,* Clerk; Dan Lammers, Treasurer;
Sandra Applegate*, Raj Israel*, Barbara Thomas*,
Sara Ferry, Jim Ford, Jeff Gardner, Jesse Shedden, Dennis Driscoll,
Kate McHale, Fred Purdy, Brad Vandrasik, and Will Crosby *
(*term ending)
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Index Index 2
General Information 3
Parish Statistics 4
Leadership of St. Peter’s 5
Agenda 6
Minuets of Annual Meeting 2012 7
Nominating Committee Report 8
Rector’s Report 11
Senior Warden’s Report 14
Treasurer’s Report 14
St. Peter’s Foundation 21
Preserve Our Heritage, Build Our Future Capital Campaign Report 22
The Bell Project 24
Assisting Priest’s Report 26
Adult Spirituality & Education Offerings 27
Spirituality 28
Children and Youth 28
Director of Music 31
Parish Life 32
Report on the 2012 Convention 33
Episcopal Church Women 34
St. Cecilia’s Guild 35
Women Welcoming Women 35
Outreach & Servant Ministries 36
Community Meal 36
Share the Blessings Project 37
Prayer Shawl Ministry 37
Pastoral Care 38
Martha’s Table 38
Flower Delivery 39
Eucharistic Visitors 39
Buildings & Grounds 40
Garth Guild 40
Administration & Finance Ministry 41
Stewardship Committee 42
Acolyte Service, Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers 43
Chancel Guild 43
Ushers 44
Communication 45
Anglican Partners & Friends 45
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church By-Laws 46
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18001 Detroit Avenue Lakewood, Ohio 44107
Church Office Phone: 216-226-1772
Church Fax: 216-226-0354
SUNDAY SERVICES
8:00 am Holy Eucharist
9:45 am ROCKs and Pebbles for children
10:00 am Holy Eucharist
11:30 am Coffee Hour
WEEKDAY WORSHIP SERVICE
Wednesday, 9:30 am Holy Eucharist and Laying On of Hands*
BIBLE STUDY & PRAYER GROUPS
Monday, 1:00 pm
Wednesday, 10:30 am
Friday, 7:00 am – Men’s Group at Joe’s Deli
E-MAIL ADDRESSES
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
WEBSITE
www.stpeterslakewood.org
* = not held during July and August
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Parish Statistics 2013
Congregation
Households 284
Church Members, All 597
Inactive Members 75
Sacramental Rites and Other Services
Celebration of Holy Communion
Sundays 103
Saturday 3
Weekdays 67
Private Services 84
Baptisms 6 Confirmations 0
Received 0
Marriages 2 Burials 10
Transferred In / Newcomers 42
Transferred Out 6
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The 2012 Leadership of Saint Peter’s Episcopal Church
THE VESTRY
Class of 2012 Sandra Applegate, Raj Israel, Jim Klomfas,
Barbara Thomas, Pam Darling
Class of 2013 Jim Ford, Jeff Gardner, Gina Massetti,
Jesse Shedden, Sara Ferry
Class of 2014 Fred Bauer, Dennis Driscoll, Kate McHale,
Fred Purdy, Brad Vandrasik
Youth Vestry Representative Will Crosby
THE PARISH LEADERSHIP
Administration & Finance: Dan Lammers
Buildings & Grounds: Dave Tabar, Mike Hammarlund, Tim Simon
Adult Spiritual Life: Nancy Wittig, Barbara Thomas, John Carlson
Stewardship: Fred Purdy, Tom Andrews, Jenni Baker, Fred Bauer,
Susan Jensen, Keith Savidge, Jeff Tennant
Parish Life: Lorna Jordan
Children & Youth: Patti Geiger, Jill Mintzlaff, Nan Archbold, Bill Grane,
Jesse & Nicole Shedden
Pastoral Care: Deb Sefcek, Sara Ferry, Gina Massetti
Outreach & Servant Ministry: Ken Taylor
Anglican Friends & Partners: Martha Taylor
Saint Peter’s Foundation: Jennifer Hammarlund
Saint Peter’s ChildCare: Dave Opdycke
THE STAFF
Parish Administrator: Leslie Hannan
Parish Accountant: Donna Felleisen
Sexton: Barrett (Tom) Newman
Children and Youth Ministries: Michelle Killin-Keith
Director of Music & Organist: Michael Miller
Assistant for Spiritual Direction: John Carlson
Office Volunteers: Joanne Calkins, Lorna Jordan, Anne Kroehle, John Keller
Rector: The Rev. G. Keith Owen, II
Assisting Priest: The Rev. Canon Nancy H. Wittig, D. Min.
Retired Assisting Priest: The Rev. John S. Keller
Bishop of Ohio: The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth
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Agenda St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
106th Annual Meeting Sunday, January 27, 2013
Worship and Call to Order
Annual Report of the Rector (in place of sermon)
Conclusion of Worship and beginning of business
a. Appointment of tellers
b. Approval of Minutes of 2012 Annual Meeting
Report of the Nominating Committee and additional nominations
Balloting
Recess to Undercroft for Brunch
Reconvene in Sanctuary – Election Results
Presentation by Mr. Jim Duber of Studio Techne
Financial Reports
Parish – Dan Lammers Treasurer
a. 2012 Final
b. 2013 Budget
Officer and Committee Reports
a. Senior Warden –Gina Massetti
b. St. Peter’s Foundation – Jennifer Hammarlund
c. St. Peter’s ChildCare – Dave Opdycke/Denise Minor
d. Others as needed, and pre-filed in Annual Meeting Book
Question and Comment time
Adjournment, Blessing, and Dismissal
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St. Peter’s Episcopal Church 18001 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
Minutes of the Annual Meeting – Sunday, January 22, 2012
The 2012 Annual Parish Meeting Booklet should be considered an Appendix to these
Minutes…
Participants
Parish: Approximately 70 members of the congregation were present.
Clergy: the Rev. Keith Owen, the Rev. Canon Nancy Wittig
Vestry: Sandra Applegate, Pam Darling (clerk), Sara Ferry, Jim Ford, Raj Israel, Lorna Jordan, Jim
Klomfas(junior warden), Bob Lewis, Naomi Opdycke(senior warden), Jesse Shedden; Barbara
Thomas; Jeff Gardner, Will Crosby (youth representative)
Absent: Dennis Driscoll, Gina Massetti; Jill Mintzlaff
Treasurer: Dan Lammers
Staff: Leslie Hannan, Tom Newman, Michelle Killin-Keith, Michael Miller
Child Care Center Staff: Denise Minor, Courtney Polinski
Call to Order
The 2012 Annual Meeting of St Peter’s Episcopal Church was called to order at the beginning of a
9:30AM combined Eucharist. The Rector presented his annual report in place of the sermon,
reviewing highlights of the past year, particularly his sabbatical and the smooth functioning of the
parish in his absence; the success of the Adult Forum program on Islam with Dr. Abdul-Rahman
Tayyara; launch of the Pastoral Partners Program; return of Michelle Killin Keith and the
flourishing of the Children and Youth Ministries under her guidance; completion of the parking lot
and progress on a new HVAC system; design of a new parish website and Facebook page by
Amanda Wolf; addition of John Carlson as a volunteer Rector’s Assistant for Spiritual Direction and
Discernment; and on the negative side, concern about the uncertain state of the parish finances in an
economy that has affected the ability of some members to fulfill their pledges in a timely fashion.
After the Eucharist, the Nominating Committee presented its report.
The Rector called for additional nominations from the floor, and the congregation recessed to the
Undercroft for a sumptuous pot-luck brunch, after which the Annual Meeting continued in the
church.
Minutes
The Minutes of the 2011 Annual Meeting were approved as presented.
Report of the Nominating Committee
Convener Naomi Opdycke (senior warden), reported for the Nominating Committee. After
speaking with more than two dozen potential nominees, the Committee presented a slate as follows:
Fred Bauer, Dennis Driscoll, Kate McHale, Fred Purdy and Brad Vandrasik, and for Youth
Representative, Will Crosby; Biographical information about each appears in the Meeting Booklet.
After ascertaining that there were no additional nominations, the Rector entertained a motion, made
by David Anderson and seconded by Jesse Shedden, to instruct the Clerk to cast a unanimous
ballot. So ordered.
The newly-elected Vestry members were asked to stand; out-going members Naomi Opdycke,
Lorna Jordan, Bob Lewis, Gina Masetti and Jill Mintzlaff were recognized, and the Nominating
Committee was thanked for its service.
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Revisions to the St Peter’s Code of Regulations (by-laws)
The Task Force’s report, on page 11-12 of the Annual Meeting Booklet, was presented by Pam
Darling, on behalf of other task force members, Keith Savidge, convener, Dennis Driscoll and Chas
Geiger. Two major changes were proposed; to reduce the size of the vestry from 15 to 12 (plus 1
youth representative), and to permit vestry members to be nominated for re-election without waiting
a year. Extensive discussion ensued. John Carlson, seconded by Martha Taylor, moved to divide
the question. Division adopted.
A change in the first sentence of Article 2, Section 2, to reduce the size of the vestry from 15 to 12
was adopted.
A change to the final sentence of Article 2, Section 2, to permit two consecutive terms, was debated
at length, and, following a recount, was defeated by a vote of 23-21.
Three other changes elicited little discussion:
Article I, Section 3, change Annual Meeting date to third Sunday in January (to match
current practice, and the diocesan canons). Adopted
Article II. Section 4, adjust method of resolving tie vote in vestry
elections. Adopted
Article II, Section 8, clarify how to determine a quorum for
Vestry actions. Adopted
Treasurer's Report
Treasurer Dan Lammers reviewed the financial statements printed on pages 16-19 of the Annual
Meeting Booklet. $395,000 loaned by the St Peter’s Foundation for repairs to the roof and facade
has been repaid from Capital Campaign receipts. 2011 ended with a small deficit ($7,025, out of
$468,838 operating budget), which may be covered by delayed pledge payments.
The budget for 2012 adopted by the Vestry, a no-growth budget that includes no staff raises or
program increases, shows a deficit of $6,995 which will be covered by restricted accounts if needed.
Two key factors account for the leveling out of pledge income: moving away or death of several
major givers, and the delayed effects of the 2008 economic crisis which reduced the income of those
dependent on market performance, especially retired seniors.
Looking ahead to 2013, we anticipate a sharp increase in the cost of employee health benefits due
to a church-wide mandate of parity between lay employees and clergy. This could increase costs as
much as $20,000, though firm figures are not available, and there is a possibility that the General
Convention in July 2012 may modify the requirements. After some discussion, on motion of Sara
Ferry, seconded by Sandra Applegate the Treasurer’s Report was Accepted
The Treasurer also reviewed the Capital Campaign Report, and a brief discussion ensued about
next steps. The Rector reported on a process later in 2012 to dream and plan for Phase II, and noted
that the funds remaining from Phase I could be used for architects, consultant fees and engineering
reports for Phase II projects that might involve the administrative offices, classrooms and child care
facilities. Treasurer’s Report Accepted
Program & Committee Reports are included in the Annual Meeting Booklet, but a few people
supplemented their written report with comments:
1. Senior Warden Naomi Opdycke thanked the vestry for its support and good attendance,
noting that the group was not contentious but dedicated to the life of the parish; and thanked
the congregation and staff for support, especially during the Rector’s sabbatical.
2. Jennifer Hammarlund, as President of the St Peter’s Foundation, reported that they will
be reviewing by-laws and investment policies in the coming year, and reminded members of
the need for continuing legacies to sustain the Foundation.
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The Rector reminded the congregation, pursuant to his canonical duty as stated in the Book
of Common Prayer, p.445, “to instruct the people …to make a will…and to leave bequests
for religious and charitable uses.”
3. Dave Opdycke, President of the St Peter’s Child Care Center Board, described the
continuing success of the Center staff, led by Denise Minor and Courtney Polinski, in
achieving stability after the costs of incorporating separately; sustaining enrollment;
maintaining a very stable staff, which is unusual for child care programs; and incorporating
outreach activities into the program each month.
Adjournment
By unanimous consent, following a Blessing and Dismissal, the meeting was adjourned at 1:48PM
Respectfully submitted
Pam Darling, Clerk
Nominating Committee Report
There are five open positions on the Vestry; four adult positions and one Youth position. This year, the
Nominating Committee, after speaking with more than two dozen potential candidates, is presenting a slate of
candidates who have stepped forward to answer the call to serve on St. Peter’s Vestry.
We thank each and every one who responded to the Nominating Committee’s call. The following is the slate
being presented at the Annual Meeting: , and Hayden Bish as the Youth Representative. We thank them for
standing for election. Please take a moment to read the brief bios as you discern their candidacy.
Karen Bradley Norton Karen Bradley Norton’s roots at St. Peter’s extend to the early 1990’s
when she transferred from Christ Episcopal Church in Oberlin. She and
her husband, Tom Norton, were married at St. Peter’s, Jan 8, 1994, and
Bay Village has been her home community since then. Their adopted “
Russian princess”, Anna Polina was baptized at St. Peter’s in 1996.
“For a variety of reasons, we later transferred our membership to a
church in Bay Village, Bethesda on the Bay Lutheran Church. After a
long sojourn, I finally returned to St. Peter’s, transferring membership
back in March, 2011.”
By profession Karen is a semi-retired psychiatrist, having closed her
private practice in 2009. After graduating in 1978 from Loyola Stritch School of Medicine, Karen worked as a
family physician for 3 years. “This helped me realize that my true interest was in mental health issues so I
completed a psychiatry residency at Indiana University in 1984. Currently, I volunteer as a psychiatrist at the
Free Medical Clinic in Cleveland.”
Karen’s retirement joys are music, reading, gardening and spending time with family and friends. When
able, she enjoy singing as a soprano in the St. Peter’s choir. “Michael is such a fantastic and inspiring choir
director!”
“We have a small but mighty church. With the leadership of our priests, Keith and Nancy, we can continue
to be a beacon of God’s love and grace to the world.”
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Doug Fifner
Doug Fifner is 59 years old and was raised in Westlake, OH. He was
baptized, confirmed, and married in St. Peter's church. He attends the
8:00 AM service.
Since 1979 Doug has been an attorney in Cleveland. He runs his own
law firm and has since 1995. Doug is married with 2 adult children.
Doug’s mission is “to help guide the church in its mission of service
to the congregation and the community.”
Pete Wheeler
Peter Wheeler and his wife, Denise, moved to Rocky River in 1985 and still
reside there. They have two children, a son, Elliot who lives in California,
and a daughter, Grace who lives in Cincinnati. He is employed with Anton
Paar USA Inc., a company that manufactures analytical instrumentation. Pete
is a regional sales manager responsible for sales in the Northern U.S. as well
as Canada.
Pete joined St. Peter’s in 1985. He served on the stewardship committee for
two years during Stewart Pierson’s tenure. Typically he attends the 8 am
service except in April and October when he’s an Usher on Team Furry for
the 10:00 am service.
Pete states, “What I hope to contribute to the Vestry is time, energy, and possibly some different ideas to
promote the well-being and positive direction of St. Peter’s.”
Amanda Wolf
Amanda Wolf is a lifelong Episcopalian and has been a member of St. Peter’s
since 2010. You'll see her in attendance at the 10:00 a.m. service with her
significant other, Dennis McCready, and her son, Victor Cottrell. Along with
maintaining St. Peter’s website, Amanda serves as a Pastoral Partner and
Foyer Groups coordinator.
With almost 20 years professional creative, communication, and planning
experience, Amanda hopes to use these talents to foster community, unity, and
fellowship throughout the parish.
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Hayden Bish
Hayden Bish has agreed to serve as the Youth Representative. If elected, he will
serve a one year term.
“Hello. As you know, I'm Hayden. I'm a junior at Lakewood high school and
attend honors classes in most subjects but science, along with playing three
sports; cross country swimming and track, with varsity letters in all of them. My
favorite classes are European history and art.
I’ve been at St. Peter’s for three or four years and have been an active
participant in the Youth Group and Teen Bible Study. I've done the Homeless
Sleep-out for three years and helped out multiple times with the Community
Meal.
I’m an avid player of Clue and love long walks on the beach. Being involved
with the church is something I want to do, and I think being Youth Vestry
Member will be a great experience for me.”
Respectfully submitted,
Gina Massetti, Convener
Rector’s Report
Take a Deep Breath Rector's Annual Report
The theme for my annual report today is “Take a Deep Breath.” I choose that phrase because it’s a little piece
of colloquial American English that conveys a lot more than the simple words themselves. If I tell you “take a
deep breath,” it could be that I am trying to prepare you to hear or experience something unexpected. Or, if I
say “take a deep breath,” perhaps I am trying to get you to pause in the middle of something stressful. Or, if I
say “take a deep breath,” I am encouraging you to relax, be calm, to be still and present to the moment.
Breathing deeply is the basic skill of all forms of prayer and meditation. Centering prayer, zen meditation,
yoga, all of these begin with the simple act of breathing deeply and slowly. Before you can really center and
pray, one must be relaxed. And the single best way to relax is to breathe deeply, slowly, and mindfully. It is no
accident that “Hagia Pneuma” the very words we translate “Holy Spirit” can just as correctly be translated
“Holy Breath.”
So, today, I invite us all to take a deep breath. A deep breath of anticipation. A deep breath of stress
interruption. A deep breath to relax. And most importantly, a deep intake of that Holy Breath, that Holy Spirit,
that is the very life of our faith community.
2012 was a nice year in the life of this parish. After several years that included capital campaigning,
building projects, worry about money, and lots of other stressors, 2012 seemed pretty tame. Some of the
highlights, as I recall them: Our first “Agape Supper” on Maundy Thursday. Sharing a wonderful Easter Vigil
with St. Barnabas in Bay Village. We enjoyed our first summer in an air-conditioned sanctuary. Because of the
air conditioning, we tried out a Saturday night service in August, an experiment that met with resounding,
almost unanimous, approval. Thanks to the remarkable generosity of our long time members, and to a large
influx of generous new members, our Fall Stewardship campaign shattered records, with pledges for 2013
increasing by nineteen percent overall. That same generosity, along with careful expense monitoring, brought
us to a nice budget surplus for 2012. Three weeks ago I heard numerous folks remark at how many children
were in the Epiphany pageant. We are enjoying a surge in our numbers of families with small children.
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We also saw a surge in interest in our Sunday morning adult program, with many folks turning out to learn
about Judaism. We were all delighted in November that, after 80 years of waiting, our bell tower finally rang
with the sound of a new bell. And all that happened against the backdrop of all the other normal events and
activities that are always happening around here. All in all, 2012 was a busy, happy, year. Thank you to all of
you, who in your uncountable ways, visible and invisible, known and unknown, make this place tick. So, let’s
all take a deep breath, and give thanks for a year well lived.
Now, take another deep breath. Because 2013 is shaping up to be quite a year, perhaps even a pivotal year,
in the life of Saint Peter’s. Before I get specific, I want first to be a little abstract. I want to talk about change
in our culture and how it is manifesting itself in our parish.
Every time I attend a meeting of clergy or read a religious periodical, and at least once a week as I read the
New York Times, I hear folks talking about the seismic changes happening in our religious landscape. Just last
week, NPR “Morning Edition” ran a series all week entitled “Losing Our Religion.” They highlighted the
trends that professional church folks have been noticing for a decade. The fastest growing religious group in
American right now is “Nones,” who comprise 20% of the population. Among people under 30, fully a third of
Americans are now “Nones.” Religious groups of every theological and liturgical stripe are under stress.
How does that manifest itself at Saint Peter’s? Ponder these realities: in 2012, we added approximately 40
new households to our rolls. We lost 10-15, for a net gain of about 25 households. But our average Sunday
attendance dropped from 188 per Sunday to 184. In our Fall stewardship campaign our total pledges went from
$400k to $475k, an amazing increase. But the total number of pledging households remained almost the same.
We have a large and growing crowd of kids and youth in this parish. Yet, it is increasingly challenging to
provide a consistent, quality experience for those kids on Sunday mornings. A conversation I had with a mother
last Fall captures the challenge. She came up to me after service and said: “My kids were the only kids in
Sunday School this morning. Where is everybody?” As gently as I could, trying to be playful and not
judgmental, I responded “Well, I guess they’re wherever you were for the last three weeks.” It was the first
time that family, a very loyal and involved family, had been in church in a month. We on the church staff often
remark that it takes about a month for us to see everyone who is on our rolls.
That is our reality. Fewer people in our general society attend church. And the people who do attend church
are, paradoxically, financially more supportive than ever, but attend less frequently than they once did, and are
less able to volunteer their precious time. Michael Miller later this morning will implore more of you to join
our choir. Our brave little group makes remarkable music, but it is increasingly difficult to maintain the critical
mass of singers necessary for that. Just eight or ten of you could change that reality immediately, but who will
make that commitment?
As they say: it is what it is. I am tempted to moan and groan about these new realities, but that will result in
absolutely nothing. We are in substantially better shape than most of our sister churches. We do enjoy growth
among young families. In fact, we are growing in just about every age cadre. We have had a bunch of 70
something folks and a bunch 20-30 something folks join our parish in the past year. We are doing okay, we are
holding our own.
But I am not satisfied with that, and I hope you’re not either. I want to be hopeful and thankful. I want to
greet these societal changes not with moaning and groaning, but with cheerful creativity. I think that St. Peter’s
is uniquely poised to engage these new realities. I believe there is going to be a place in these new realities for a
church that lovingly practices ancient and traditional worship, but that welcomes and embraces new ideas,
thoughts, and practices. I believe this parish will be rewarded, and that it will continue to grow, if we are
willing to take some risks in faith.
In 2013, we are going to keep going in the process of creative engagement we’ve been about for these last
five years. We are going to think in concrete ways about how we will be a church, in the community of
Lakewood, for this new time and these new realities. We are going to try some new things. We are going to
stretch and risk.
Take a deep breath. Later this morning, we will welcome to our meeting Mr. Jim Duber. Jim is the principal
partner of Studio Techne architects. He has been our companion since 2008 as we worked on our building
projects. His firm did the design work for our HVAC project and for the bell installation. The Vestry has
engaged Jim and his firm to lead us this year in developing plans for the renovation or replacement of our
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administrative/program building, and for further renovations to this building. The planning process will occur
throughout 2013. Every parishioner will be given ample opportunity to participate in this process. It will
ultimately result in the “Phase Two” of our capital campaign plans. Phase One concludes this coming June.
The process of raising funds for the next round of projects would thus begin in 2014 or 2015. This is going to
be big, expensive, and probably a bit scary. But we have no choice if we are serious about doing meaningful
ministry for the coming decades.
We are going to try some new things liturgically this year. Take a deep breath. Last year, to great acclaim,
we altered our Maundy Thursday liturgy to an Agape Supper. We will do that again this year. In addition,
Easter Sunday morning will look different. We will have three very different services on Easter morning this
year instead of two identical ones. Stay tuned for more info. Last August, we experimented with a Saturday
night/Sunday morning service schedule. It was a huge hit. I anticipate we will do that all summer this year.
Again, stay tuned.
Michael and I have been talking for over a year about how we can resurrect a children’s choir here. The
Choristers program we had a few years ago fell apart for lack of interest. Michael tried every trick he knew, but
the reality was that parishioner families simply could not commit to the time and effort it takes to have a decent
children’s choir. So we’ve begun to imagine an entirely different way to approach that desire. Take a deep
breath and imagine with me. What if? What if we recruited children not just from our parish, but from our
Lakewood neighborhood? What if we actually paid those kids, made it a job, made it a rigorous program for
kids who really want to sing. What if we taught not just music, but the responsibility of working? The Beck
Center just a few years ago had sixty kids in its choir program. Today, that program is gone. Could Saint
Peter’s fill that hole? I don’t honestly know, but Michael and I would love to give it a try.
What ideas do you have? Every bit as importantly, what are you willing to do, what are you willing to give,
in order to make your ideas into reality? This is the way we must think, this is the way we must act, if we
intend to be faithful stewards of the Gospel we have been given.
Today’s Gospel from Luke [4:14–21] is, for my money, one of the most important stories in the Gospels.
We see Jesus returning to his home synagogue in Nazareth. This would have been the place where the boy
Jesus, the teen Jesus, the young man Jesus would have spent some portion of every day of his life. He would
have been surrounded by relatives and friends, people who knew him intimately. The Gospel does not tell us
how long he has been away, but the implication is that he has made some kind of name for himself. The folks
in the synagogue are eager to hear from him. At first they are impressed. He speaks well, he speaks hopefully.
But then the tone changes. By the end of the story, which we will hear next Sunday, Jesus’ old friends and
relations are furious with him. He proposes too much change, he challenges them too directly. They are so
furious, they nearly kill Jesus. And Jesus, the Gospel tells us, goes on his way. He never returns home again.
To those people in Nazareth, Jesus represented too much change. He represented too much change then, and
Jesus still represents change. And change is always, always, resisted. Sometimes, to the point of death.
Christianity in America is changing because America is changing. We can sit around and bemoan all that
change until we are literally blue in the face. But the change is happening, and it will not be stopped. The
Church will survive all this change, the Gospel will survive, because the Holy Spirit is not in any way bound.
What we today call treasured traditions were, once upon a time, the scary innovations that the Spirit used to
adapt the Church to its place and time. The Spirit will do that again in our day, of that we can be absolutely
assured. We can cooperate with that Spirit, or we can stay behind and wither away.
Today we salute the end of a very nice year in the life of Saint Paul’s, and we salute ourselves and the
hundreds of people and thousands of acts of faithful ministry that made it so nice. Today we turn into a new
year, filled with uncertainty, filled with hope, filled with possibility. God really does seem to have some neat
things in mind for Saint Peter’s Church in Lakewood. Let us open our minds, our hearts, our hands, our very
best selves, to whatever it is that God is summoning forth from us.
Let’s all take a deep breath. And let’s go.
Your Colleague in Christ,
G. Keith Owen, II, Rector
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Senior Warden’s Report
As I reflect upon the events and activities of the prior year, I am truly amazed at the benevolence and abundance
that St Peter’s continues to receive from its parishioners and its clergy, Keith and Nancy, as well as the greater
community to whom it serves. This year has truly been one of blessings for and from a dedicated existing and
growing congregation.
The very first blessing that comes to mind is the placement into use of our new HVAC system over the
summer months. For the first time in St. Peter’s history we were able to worship in an air-conditioned
sanctuary. This gift not only enabled us to worship in greater comfort during one of the most prolonged hot and
dry summers we have experienced, but also allowed us to worship on days and times we would not have been
able to in the past.
We continue to be blessed with an outstanding and intriguing adult spirituality and education program with
presentations from the John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg series, First Light, Jesus and the Kingdom of
God, to the Shai Cherry series on Judaism. A special thank you to Nancy Wittig for making these presentations
available to us. We also continue to expand our children and youth programs and are grateful for the
contributions from Michelle Killin-Keith.
Your Vestry has been particularly focused this year on becoming more connected with our ministries at St.
Peter’s in a more structured and informed manner by establishing ministry partner teams for each ministry. Our
objective has been to keep in contact with each ministry through the designated partner teams who provide
regular status reports to the Vestry.
We have seen our ministries grow including the newly re-established “Martha’s Table” which provides
meals to those in need under the umbrella of the Pastoral Partners’ ministry. We continue to be blessed with the
work of the hands of many, under the direction of Monica Owen, to provide the service of the Community Meal
to help meet similar needs to the community at large. We have also seen generous giving and have heard
heartfelt expressions of gratitude from our monthly Outreach Partners as we continue to vary and expand our
recipients, this year including, among others, The Legal Aid Society.
As a parish, we have shared in the joy of celebrations and have extended solace in times of need. We have
given amongst ourselves to continue with the fellowship we experience through the monthly parish breakfasts.
We have extended our support to the greater Anglican community as we nurtured and welcomed the process of
the New Ministry at St. Barnabas in Bay Village. We also extended our worship to our furry, or not so furry,
friends, with the Blessing of the Animals.
With all of the blessings St. Peter’s has received over the past year, what do you think will be most
memorable over time for this year? My guess is that although we have had many memorable events, this year
will be most remembered as the year of the acquisition and installation of a bell for St. Peter’s. It is the
universal symbol of the connectedness of each member of our congregation, and we are truly blessed by the
donors and supporters who resurrected this long postponed vision into reality.
As we look forward to the year ahead, I ask for your prayers and support for the newly forming Master Plan
Committee so they guide us to a place where we will continue to receive even more blessings in our worship
space and grounds.
Respectfully submitted,
Gina Massetti , Senior Warden
Treasurer’s Report What a difference a year makes! 2012 promised to be a challenging year with a deficit budget of $6,995 and
ended up with a surplus of $14,377 or $21,372 over budget. This was as result of non-pledge income (includes
new parishioners) and catching up on 2011 pledges. Expenses were $180 under budget thanks to a warm year,
new lighting, and a new HVAC. The utility savings offset any unexpected expenditures.
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Thanks to your generosity, the 2013 stewardship campaign was able to fund the increased health insurance
costs, add funds for the youth ministry, and provide pay increases for the staff. The 2013 budget only shows a
surplus of $407, however there is room for unexpected expenditures. The staff, of course, always does a great
job of managing expenses.
I am looking forward to 2013 as we begin preparations to decide on the future physical and spiritual
structure of St. Peter’s.
Respectfully submitted,
Dan Lammers, Treasurer
Statement of Activities – Budget vs. Actual
Actual Budget Budget
2012 2012 2013
Ordinary Income/Expense Income
40000 · OPERATING REVENUE
41000 · Parishioner Regular Support 394,235 399,000 466,000
41050 · Parishioner Other Support 42,642 24,000 24,000
41400 · Special Occasions Plate/Gifts 10,863 12,000 10,000
41100 · Prior Year pledge Payments 10,232 5,000
41500 · Miscellaneous 1,753 0 0
41600 · Child Care Occupancy Fee 18,267 16,800 16,800
41850 · Foundation Operating 5,000 5,000 5,000
Total 40000 · OPERATING REVENUE 482,992 461,800 521,800
Total Income 482,992 461,800 521,800
Expense
50000 · PERSONNEL EXPENSE
50100 · Rector
Total 50100 · Rector 114,167 113,909 119,257
50200 · Assisting Clergy
Total 50200 · Assisting Clergy 12,984 12,984 13,244
50300 · Parish Administrator
Total 50300 · Parish Administrator 49,078 46,742 57,704
50400 · Sexton
Total 50400 · Sexton 39,441 40,253 52,371
50500 · Parish Accountant
Total 50500 · Parish Accountant 18,900 25,200 26,680
50600 · Music Director
Total 50600 · Music Director 33,942 34,612 35,015
50800 · Children & Youth Minister
Total 50800 · Children & Youth Minister 13,260 13,260 19,269
50900 · Other Personnel Costs
5111 · Nursery Workers/Vac Subs 2,772 1,300 2,895
Total 50900 · Other Personnel Costs 2,772 1,300 2,895
50950 · Statutory Benefits
5113 · Employer's FICA Taxes 10,482 11,175 10,843
5114 · Workers' Compensation Ins 1,216 1,465 1,215
Total 50950 · Statutory Benefits 11,800 12,640 12,058
Total 50000 · PERSONNEL EXPENSE 302,542 300,900 338,493
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51100 · OUTREACH
51110 · Grants from Operating 3,250 3,250 3,250
Total 51100 · OUTREACH 3,250 3,250 3,250
51200 · ANGLICAN FRIENDS & PARTNERS
5501 · Diocese Assessment 56,664 59,000 68,400
Total 51200 · ANGLICAN FRIENDS &
PARTNERS 68,500 59,000 68,400
52000 · ADMINISTRATION & STEWARDSHIP
5201 · Postage 2,929 4,000 3,000
5202 · Office Supplies 3,665 2,000 2,400
5203 · Equipment Leases & Maintenance 9,428 7,170 9,000
5204 · Printing 2,610 5,000 4,000
5205 · Stewardship Materials 1,416 750 1,000
5206 · Miscellaneous Admin Expense 1,959 1,500 1,650
5208 · Audit & Accounting Expense 2,900 2,750 2,900
5209 · Telephone & Computer Services 3,315 2,500 2,650
Total 52000 · ADMINISTRATION &
STEWARDSHIP 28,222 25,670 26,600
54000 · MAINTENANCE & PROPERTY
EXPENSE
5404 · Maintenance & Repair 5,113 3,000 3,200
5406 · Building & Grounds Supplies 3,436 3,455 3,500
5410 · Snow Removal & Equipment 2,414 1,200 1,500
5411 · Utilities 32,179 38,700 38,000
5412 · Semi Annual Roof Inspection 950 1,600 1,600
5413 · Insurance Expense 10,930 11,000 11,000
5415 · Contract Services 3,816 3,000 3,900
5416 · Other Bldg/Grounds Expenses 184 230 250
5417 · Volunteer Project Costs 0 0 0
Total 54000 · MAINTENANCE & PROPERTY
EXPENSE 59,022 62,185 62,950
54500 · CHILDREN & YOUTH
5304 · Youth Group Ministry 488 250 1,840
5316 · Sunday School Costs 1,557 1,200 1,800
5317 · Other Children/Youth Expenses 591 1,200 1,200
Total 54500 · CHILDREN & YOUTH 2,636 2,650 4,840
54600 · MUSIC & ARTS
5302 · Music Expenses 1,289 1,000 1,200
5303 · Choral Scholars 10,559 10,000 11,480
5308 · Other Music/Arts Expenses 100 400 400
Total 54600 · MUSIC & ARTS 11,948 11,400 13,080
54700 · OTHER PROGRAM EXPENSE
5305 · Worship Expenses 1,500 1,080 1,100
5306 · Adult Spiritual Life 1,515 1,400 1,400
5307 · Fellowship 648 480 480
5309 · Congregational Development 503 480 500
5311 · Miscellaneous Program Expense 165 300 300
Total 54700 · OTHER PROGRAM EXPENSE 4,331 3,740 3,780
Total Operating Expense 468,615 468,795 521,393
Net Operating Income 14,377 -6,995 407
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Other Income/Expense
42000 · NON-OPERATING REVENUE
41800 · Community Meals Gifts/Grants 1,547
41900 · Designated Offerings 2,039
41910 · Outreach Plate Offerings 20,407
42001 · Rector's Discretionary Fund 4,232
42500 · Capital Improvement Support -44
42900 · Other Non-Operating Revenue 14,565
Total 42000 · NON-OPERATING REVENUE 42,746
90000 · NON-OPERATING EXPENSE
5315 · Reimbursed Expenses 271
5425 · Depreciation Expense 9,183
5503 · Community Meals Program
Expense 1,611
5507 · Outreach Plate Offerings 20,407
5510 · Other Non-Ops Expenses 15,990
5515 · Rector's Discretionary Offering 4,232
5525 · Designated Offerings Expense 2,320
Total 90000 · NON-OPERATING EXPENSE 54,014
Net Other Income -11,268
Net Income 3,109
Statement of Financial Position
Dec 31,
12
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings
11000 · Cash-PNC Checking 93,988
11250 · PNC Capital Campaign Checking 31,391
11500 · Petty Cash 100
12000 · Dreyfus US Treasury Money Mrkt 62,808
Total Checking/Savings 188,287
Other Current Assets
13750 · Capital Camp Surplus-Foundation 694,233
Total Other Current Assets 694,233
Total Current Assets 882,520
Fixed Assets
15000 · Roof Replacement Project 2008 281,928
15250 · Building-Facade Work 2008 90,518
15400 · Accumulated Depreciation -37,496
Total Fixed Assets 334,950
TOTAL ASSETS
1,217,470
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LIABILITIES &
EQUITY
Liabilities
21000 · Restricted Accounts
22000 · In/Out Designated Funds
25500 · Community Meal Fund 5,089
25600 · Epiphany Proj/Share The
Blessing 738
25900 · Mission Trip 221
Total 22000 · In/Out Designated Funds 6,048
23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts
24200 · Memorial Flowers 2,893
24750 · Capital Funds 724
25200 · Music @ St. Peter's 10,090
26600 · Music & Light Campaign 5,482
26800 · Sanctuary Piano Fund 13,145
Total 23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts 32,334
24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts
24700 · Mntc/Office/Columb Reserves 33,644
25100 · Fellowship Committee 145
25300 · Vestry Decision Fund 2,492
25400 · Outreach Decision Fund 7,419
26150 · 2013 Prepaid Pledge 30,208
26300 · St Peter's Youth 5,600
26500 · Altar Guild Fund 703
Total 24000 · Church's Restricted
Accounts 80,211
Total 21000 · Restricted Accounts 118,593
24110 · Health Insurance Payable 791
24120 · Pension Payable -254
Total Other Current Liabilities 119,130
Total Current Liabilities 119,130
Total Liabilities
119,130
Equity
39000 · Net Assets 1,121,369
Net Income
-23,029
Total Equity
1,098,340
TOTAL LIABILITIES & EQUITY 1,217,470
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Statement of Cash Flow
Jan - Dec
12
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net Income -23,029
Adjustments to reconcile Net Income
to net cash provided by operations:
13750 · Capital Camp Surplus-Foundation 29,700
21000 · Restricted Accounts:22000 · In/Out Designated Funds:25500 · Community Meal Fund 3,079
21000 · Restricted Accounts:22000 · In/Out Designated Funds:25600 · Epiphany Proj/Share
The Blessing 51
21000 · Restricted Accounts:22000 · In/Out Designated Funds:25900 · Mission Trip 221
21000 · Restricted Accounts:23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts:24200 · Memorial Flowers 467
21000 · Restricted Accounts:23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts:24500 · Haynes Fund (Capital) -959
21000 · Restricted Accounts:23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts:25200 · Music @ St. Peter's -286
21000 · Restricted Accounts:23000 · Donor Restricted Accounts:26600 · Music & Light Campaign -1,774
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:24700 · Mntc/Office/Columb
Reserves 648
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:25300 · Vestry Decision Fund -1,635
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:25400 · Outreach Decision Fund -680
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:26100 · 2012 Prepaid Pledges -40,684
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:26150 · 2013 Prepaid Pledge 27,908
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:26300 · St Peter's Youth -731
21000 · Restricted Accounts:24000 · Church's Restricted Accounts:26500 · Altar Guild Fund 779
24110 · Health Insurance Payable -12
Net cash provided by Operating Activities -6,937
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
15400 · Accumulated Depreciation 9,183
Net cash provided by Investing Activities 9,183
Net cash increase for period 2,246
Cash at beginning of period 186,041
Cash at end of period 188,287
Capital Campaign Summary
as of December 31, 2012
2012 2012
Current Current
2009 2010 2011 Month YTD Total
Pledges
$
-
$ -
$ 1,650,370.00
Money Received $ 40,000.00 $ 258,261.37 $ 1,194,505.02 $ 17,326.89 $ 89,327.54 $ 1,582,093.93
Expenses Paid
$ 75,609.02 $ 277,248.08 $ 17,357.00 $ 161,853.88 $ 514,710.98
Foundation Loan / PAID
IN FULL)
$ 151,000.00 $ 244,000.00 $ - $ - $ 395,000.00
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Checking Account Balance
$ 31,390.99
Investment Account
Balance
$ 694,233.07
Total Capital Campaign Bank Balance
$ 725,624.06
$ 725,624.06
EXPENSE SUMMARY:
Consultant Fee $ 25,550.00
Fundraising Phase
$ 20,458.02
Project: Foundation Loan Repayment for Roof and Façade Restoration Work
$ 395,000.00
Project: Home Demolition
$ 29,601.00
Parking Lot - 1st Installment
$ 40,000.00
Parking Lot - 2nd Installment
$ 40,000.00
Parking Lot - Rubber Surfacing 50% Down Payment
$ 6,333.75
Parking Lot - Signage expense
$ 94.99
Parking Lot - 3rd and Final Installment
$ 40,000.00
Parking Lot - Misc.
$ 55.61
June - Parking Lot Expenditures
$ 4,524.74
July - Parking Lot - Balance Due on Rubber Surfacing
$ 6,333.75
August - Studio Techne Architects for HVAC and Electrical consulting
$ 1,598.92
September - Studio Techne Architects for HVAC and Electrical consulting
$ 1,655.93
October-The Illuminating Co (RE: HVAC and Electrical work)
$ 3,967.57
October-Geauga Mechanical Architect Fees (RE: HVAC and Electrical work)
$ 6,390.00
November-Permit Fee
$ 44.00
November-HVAC and Electrical work (Studio Techne Architects)
$ 5,754.32
November-Electrical work by All Phase
$ 19,163.50
December - Geauga Mechanical (Paid from Foundation Surplus Acct)
$ 54,531.00
December - Geauga Mechanical
$ 46,800.00
January 2012 - Studio Tech Architects
$ 507.18
March 2012 - Cleveland Glass Block (Block windows for Undercroft)
$ 2,998.94
March 2012 - Henle Builders
$ 8,136.00
March 2012 - Geauga Mechanical
$ 19,359.00
March 2012 - All Phase Service (Paid from Foundation Surplus Acct)
$ 30,753.87
April 2012 - Geauga Mechanical
$ 9,454.50
April 2012 - Henle Builders
$ 23,465.00
May 2012 - All Phase (Flood Lights at rear of the Church)
$ 800.00
May 2012 - Studio Techne Architects
$ 1,258.67
May 2012 - Henle Builders
$ 11,160.00
July 2012 - Studio Techne Architects
$ 208.22
July 2012 - All Phase
$ 1,000.00
July 2012 - Geauga Mechanical
$ 5,692.50
July 2012 - Geauga Mechanical
$ 16,753.00
September 2012 - Studio Techne Architects (Retainer for Master Plan Project)
$ 2,500.00
November 2012 - Complete Hydro Cleaning
$ 7,500.00
November 2012 - DSM & Associates
$ 2,950.00
December 2012 - SoundCom Systems (50% Down Payment on Sancturary Sound System) $ 17,357.00
Total $ 909,710.98
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St. Peter’s Foundation
The St. Peter’s Foundation was established in 1966 by parishioners with the foresight to anticipate
needs beyond day-to-day operations of the parish. The Foundation is separately incorporated in Ohio
and is managed by a Board of Supervisors composed of ten parishioners of whom two are appointed
by the Vestry each year for five-year terms.
During 2012 the Board consisted of Tom Baker, Jim Calhoun, Deb Csikos-Vandrasik, Sara Ferry,
Chas Geiger, Jennifer Hammarlund (President), Dan Lammers (Treasurer), Gina Massetti (Secretary),
Bob Potts, and John Yingling. In December the Vestry appointed Joanne Hull and Jim Klomfas to new
five-year terms on the Board to replace retiring members Jim Calhoun and Jennifer Hammarlund.
The Board of Supervisors holds regularly scheduled meetings every other month and occasionally
holds special meetings to address pressing needs of the parish. The Foundation has a spending cap
which provides for annual support of parish ministries in amounts up to 5% of its average total assets
for the last three years.
Over the years the Foundation has provided substantial support to St. Peter’s Church, including an
annual pledge of $5,000 for parish operations. In 2010 the Foundation provided $20,000 to help defray
costs related to the Rector’s 2011 sabbatical. In 2011 the Foundation provided $10,858 for the church
to purchase new computer equipment. In 2008 the Foundation made a $395,000 loan to the church to
complete needed repairs to the building’s roof and façade. By mid-2011, this loan was repaid in full
with capital campaign proceeds. Because the Foundation collected no interest on the loan, the deceased
members of the Church effectively lent the active members $395,000 at no cost. We active members
should rejoice at the generosity and love of those who have come before us. This is the purpose of the
Foundation, and we ask for your generous financial support of our ministry in the future.
The Sources and Uses of funds in the Foundation for the year are:
Investments balance at 12/31/11 $941,638
Increases:
Gifts and Bequests Received 15,350
Sale of Columbarium Niches 1,023
Miscellaneous (1)
1,425
Appreciation of Investments 103,643
Payments:
To Parish Ministries 5,000
Miscellaneous Expenses 1,278
Investment Balance at 12/31/12 $1,056,801
(1) Represents duplicate deposit from St. Peter’s Church to the Foundation that will be reversed in
2013.
St. Peter’s Church has been very fortunate to receive capital campaign commitments in excess of Phase
1 project costs. In 2011 the Vestry asked the Foundation to act as investment manager for the surplus
capital until a Phase 2 capital campaign and associated projects are launched.
Provisions of the formal investment policy recommended by the Foundation and approved by the
Vestry include segregated accounts for the capital campaign funds, lower risk investments consistent
with a three to five year investment horizon, and periodic status reports. A summary of investment
balances is as follows:
21
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Surplus capital investment balance at 12/31/11 $723,933
Investment gains 46,392
Payments for capital campaign projects 76,092
Surplus capital investment balance at 12/31/12 $694,233
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer R. Hammarlund, President
Preserve Our Heritage, Build Our Future
Capital Campaign Report
O Holy Spirit, empower this faith community of St. Peter’s with your sustaining
presence; enliven us as we invite one another into a time of hope and thanksgiving for
the ministry Christ calls us to be about. Help us remember that as Christ Jesus is our
cornerstone, we are joined together to be a dwelling place for God. As we embrace the
vision for this Capital Campaign, we give thanks for those whose generous stewardship
is our inheritance, and we look forward to future ministries enhanced by what we pledge
today. Refresh your faithful people that our worship of you may continue to expand
beyond the mortar and bring of our walls. Finally, help us be a joyful song before you,
O Lord, our God. Amen. (see Ephesians 2:19:22)
Every Sunday for over one hundred years, St. Peter’s parishioners have gathered to share God’s Grace
in worship and fellowship, and then gone forth to love and serve the Lord. In 2010, it was time to give
of ourselves in support of a campaign to ensure the future of our spiritual home.
Parishioners of St. Peter’s have given generously and worked diligently to care for our beautiful
sanctuary, buildings, and grounds. The original sanctuary was constructed in 1927 and the
administrative building and Garth took shape in the mid-1950s and mid-1960s. Now, as we
contemplate the long-term challenges and opportunities, we want to ensure that our parishioners enjoy
a safe, efficient, and welcoming place in which to worship, gather, and serve for a second century of
ministry.
After careful consideration and analysis, the Vestry of St. Peter’s has identified the need renovate
our facility and embarked on a capital campaign seeking to raise $1.05 million. The success of this
campaign will accomplish the following goals:
Pay for the 2008 Roof and Façade Renovations $435,000
We have already completed the most significant project!
Borrowing from St. Peter’s Foundation and parish reserves actual cost: $395,000
enabled us to repair our rapidly deteriorating exterior surfaces.
We have now repaid the Foundation in full and look for to
future collaborations.
Improve Energy Efficiency of the Sanctuary and Undercroft $300,000
We have replaced the obsolete heating system in the Sanctuary and
Undercroft; in addition to that, we added a cooling system.
This has improved the efficiency and comfort of those spaces,
and the cost of the project was under budget. actual cost: $267,653
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Double our Parking Capacity $170,000
The house on the adjacent West Clifton lot was demolished.
A new parking lot and small playground area was constructed actual cost: $166,944
and landscaped. This will double current parking capacity, provide
additional handicapped spaces, improve traffic flow, and close the
dangerous cut through from Clifton Place.
Church Organ Repairs and New Sound System $100,000
Our splendid Holtkamp Organ has led us in worship for nearly
sixty years. Normal use over time has rendered some organ
elements unusable. We will make repairs to the organ that are
immediately necessary.
A contract has been signed with SoundComfor the sound system.
That will replace the deteriorating sound system. Completion of
the project should be within the first few months of 2013.
Capital Campaign Expenses $ 45,000
All expenses of the Preserve & Build Campaign, including
earlier feasibility study, professional counsel, materials, events, actual cost: $46,008
and administration.
This year saw lots of changes for St. Peter’s. The parking lot was completed, landscaped, and sealed at
the end of the year The HVAC system, i.e. the heating and cooling system, was up and running,
through some of the hottest and coldest days, keeping us very comfortable in both the Sanctuary and
the Undercroft. And, we had a sound engineer monitor the Sanctuary and explore the various options
for a new sound system which will be installed in the next few months.
Our campaign pledges total $1,650,370. The campaign officially ends in June, 2013. In 2011, we
repaid the Foundation in full in the amount of $395,000. The two major projects, the parking lot and
the HVAC, have been completed. We also had glass block windows in the Undercroft and flood lights
at the rear of the church. Additionally, all of the electrical boxes were updated as the HVAC was
installed. Contracts have been signed for the sound system and when that is complete, we will tackle
our sixty year old organ.
This year, we also began the process of Phase II – what would we like to do next? We know we
have to do something with the rest of the building; what is it? St. Peter’s has engaged Studio Techne
to help guide us through that process.
Studio Techne is proceeding with developing the “Master Plan” with regards to phase II of our
Capital Campaign discernment. This will begin an in-depth look at what we said we wanted and what
is actually feasible. How do we get what we want? What do we need to get from Point A to Point B?
And, how much time and money will it take to get there? Please be aware, this is not a project that will
take a few days… this will be an ongoing project that will involve many parishioners, in fact the entire
congregation, and will span about a year to eighteen months. As Keith said, “we now turn to the
dreaming, thinking, talking, and planning that will take us into our next steps.”
As we approach the last few months of Phase I’s Capital Campaign, we would like to commend
everyone for their continued support and commitment. If you have questions about your pledge, i.e.
where you stand, what your payment is, or your outstanding balance, or if you just want to contribute
to the cause, please contact Donna Felleisen, the Parish Accountant, or the office. Without your
unending generosity, we would not be able to make these improvements to our facility
We would like to thank all of our parishioners for their continued generosity and for keeping up
with their pledge payments. Also, we would like to recognize the ongoing work and efforts of Dave
Tabar, Mike Hammarlund, Jim Klomfas, and Tim Simon of the Buildings and Grounds Ministry for
overseeing the work of this project.
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Thanks for Tom Newman, our Sexton for all his contributions, Leslie Hannan for keeping us up to date
about all the happenings in the Fisherman’s NET, as well as coordinating all the construction folks,
and Donna Felleisen, for keeping track of all your pledges. These people have worked tirelessly this
past year helping making this campaign a success.
Finally, we would like to keep thanking God, who has been patiently leading us through this
campaign. “May God’s empowering Spirit continue to lead us from strength to strength as we work to
secure this parish and its ministries to be about the work of the Kingdom of God in our second century
of service to the Westside community.”
Total Pledges $1,650,370
Pledge Payments Received (as of 12/31/12) $1,582,094
Campaign Expenses $ 46,008
Foundation Loan Repayment for Roof & Façade Restoration $ 395,000
Project Expenses $ 468,703
Checking Account Balance (as of 12/31/12) $ 31,391
Investment Account Balance (as of 12/31/12) $ 694,233
The Bell Project
St. Peter’s Bell Project was a privately funded “pet” project that came to fruition during 2012. Here is
the backstory.
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“When Molly and I joined St Peter’s Episcopal Church in 1978, I was drawn to many things here,
particularly to the history and remarkable features of our beautiful building, probably because my
grandfather Simon was an architect and structural engineer who designed several churches erected in
the Cleveland area during the 1920’s. Our previous efforts resulting in the book published in 2007
about the history of the St Peter’s stained glass windows and our interest in the installation of a bell at
St Peter’s are dedicated to him and to Molly’s mother, an accomplished pianist and teacher.
As we became active in church affairs, I found myself up in the tower room which was being used
during those years by parishioner Judy Guenther as her stained glass studio. In the mid-80s, an
informal group got together to clean and paint the tower room for use by the church youth group, and
some of us climbed a very rickety ladder up to the belfry to explore. We found a gigantic acoustical
speaker horn hooked up to a tape recorder in the lower room, and lots of grime left by prior occupants
(pigeons!).
Later I discovered that Rev. Richard Morris had used the setup on Easter Sunday to play a tape
featuring the bell carillon at the Washington National Cathedral. Several years passed, and I used this
rather neat setup for my daughter Virginia’s wedding in 1992.
I continued to speculate about getting a bell installed. Our church just didn’t seem complete without
one. I reviewed the original architectural drawings for the tower and discovered that the top floor was
designed and built as a belfry. I even went so far as to hire a structural engineer who confirmed the
ability of the floor to hold the weight of a bell or bells. I was excited but had no idea of where to find a
bell (or bells).
Time and other more pressing church projects (the roof, the parking lot and air conditioning)
intervened. Then in 2008, I happened to see a three line ad in a weekly antiques newspaper posted by a
man in southern Michigan who bought, renovated, and sold used bells. That summer Molly and I
visited him and thereupon better realized the cost, planning and time involved in obtaining a bell for St
Peter’s. At that juncture, the best progress I could make towards our dream project involved a serious
clean-up of the belfry to make it spic and span for, someday, a bell. Having found a source for a
renovated bell and with some idea of the cost of the project, I couldn’t help but mention our project to
friends who I thought might share our interest in it. At a Sunday coffee hour early in 2012, everything
seemed to come together during a casual conversation with Ken Taylor. He and I discussed what had
been learned to date, and it was determined that if the Vestry and Rector agreed to the gift of the bell,
one would be purchased and installed in the tower.
The time just has to be right for things to move along, and I have no doubt there was guidance from
above. Much thought was given to the appropriate size, loudness, tone, and pitch of the bell. Molly,
Rev. Keith, Michael Miller and I took a pleasant car trip to Michigan where one bell was chosen, and
contracts were let for the purchase of the bell, architectural design and supervision of necessary
renovations to the tower floor, and the actual rigging and lifting of the bell into its position in the
tower. And so, on November 7, 2012, it happened -- St Peter’s bell became a reality. Many pictures,
newspaper publicity and general joy all ‘round.
The bell was formally dedicated and rung at services on November 18, 2012, and is named
“Richard” in honor of Richard Morris, Rector of St Peter’s from 1965 to 1985, and father of Martha
Morris Taylor. “Richard” was cast by the McShane Bell Foundry in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1910,
originally hung in a church in central Pennsylvania, and came to us when that church underwent
renovation.
The bell is made of solid bronze, is 39” in diameter, pitched in A-flat, weighs 2000 pounds and is
swung using a wheel 6 feet tall. It is rung by ropes only, using either a tolling mechanism or by the
free-wheeling movement of the bell struck by its clapper, and can be heard every Sunday morning
before and after services and at appropriate moments during liturgy.
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Ken and Martha Taylor and Molly and I hope that our combined efforts to accomplish this dream
bring comfort and blessing to all who hear St Peter’s bell. Bells ring to alert us that it is time for
worship; that something important has happened. They ring to create a joyful noise to the Lord; to
proclaim the mystery of faith as celebrated in the Eucharist. Thomas Merton said, “Bells are meant to
remind us that God alone is good, that we belong to Him, that we are not living for this world.”
This Bell Project has been a joy. Thank you for allowing us to bring it to fruition.”
With love, thankfulness, joy and prayers for God’s blessing on the Parish of St Peter’s,
Tim Simon, on behalf of Molly, Ken and Martha Taylor
Assisting Priest’s Report Adult Education & Spirituality Ministry
Take care lest you forget The Lord your God and fail to keep His commandments ... lest
when you will eat and be sated and will build fine houses to live in, and your herds and
flocks will multiply, and your silver and gold will increase, and everything you own will
prosper. Beware, lest your heart grow haughty and you then forget The Lord your
God... And you say to yourselves "My own power and the might of my own hand have
won this wealth for me." Remember that it is the Lord your God who gives you the
power to acquire wealth ... (Deut. 8:11-18)
“This after-meal grace was meant to help one resist just such tendencies. It was meant to instill, and
help a person maintain, a measure of humility.”
One of the insights into our spiritual lives as Christians with Jewish-Hebrew roots is the importance
not becoming overly rigid in our understandings and beliefs. God continues to reveal the Divine in
every age and culture in ways both ancient and modern.
Spring 2012
We found ourselves being stretched in intellect and faith through the twelve week course from Living
The Questions: First Light, Jesus and The Kingdom of God. Our guides were John Dominic Crossan
and Marcus Borg.
In this series, we explored the concept of Jesus' understanding of the Kingdom of God as a Jew in
an occupied land of the Roman Empire. Jesus' world was the Lake and the parables were lures inviting
people into new ways of thinking and being. Jesus Lordship was in contrast to Roman Empire values
and ways. Resurrection can be seen as resistance to the world valuing a status quo. Crossan and Borg
challenged us to rethink preconceived notions about Jesus' world and our own twenty first century
Lent 2012
In Lent we read C.S. Lewis' The Great Divorce, and The Scewtape Letters with the rector's added
insight. We also were asked to think about how we might describe heaven and hell. The successful
series made for very energetic soup suppers during Lent.
Fall 2012
Our Fall Forums focused on an Introduction to Judaism in a twelve week series from The Great
Courses series with Professor Cherry. In addition, we participated in a series at the Temple Beth Israel
with Rabbi Lader in A Taste of Judaism, in which we learned more of the traditions in Judaism and in
particular Reform Judaism. Rabbi Lader joined us for an evening of food and discussion and questions
that the series brought to mind.
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The topics of the Great Courses included the following: Torah and the Hebrew Bible; Fall Holy
Days; From Israelite to Jew; Prayer, Deeds of Loving Kindness, and Study; Messianism, Sabbath and
Law; Repentance and Women and Jewish Law.
Winter 2012 : The Advent Retreat
The Advent retreat was ably led by the Reverend Evelyn Manzella, Rector of St. James Wooster, who
called us into that quiet place where we step out of the season's frenzy to be reminded that God
chooses what seems weak and broken to be amongst us.
Blue Christmas
On the evening of the fourth Sunday of Advent, we gathered together with any who needed a reminder
that the feelings of being blue needed naming and recognition. As the winter's darkness surrounded us,
the Service of Light was a healing presence for each in its own way.
Prayer/ Book Group
Mondays at 1 p.m. we gather to pray for the parish and any who have asked for our prayers. We follow
the Book of Common Prayer mid-day service allowing us also to pray the ROTA that is published
monthly in the parish newsletter,The Net.
This year we began a series from Living The Questions entitled Uppity Women of the Bible. We
studied the Book of Ruth, and Song of Songs. We will continue in early 2013 with the Book of Esther
and the Book of Judith.
Weekly Bible Study:
There are two weekly Bible Study Groups. Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. to Noon. Open to all who wish to
learn more about Christian and Hebrew Sacred Scriptures. Friday at Joe’s Deli in Rocky River 7:00
a.m. a group of men meet for breakfast and Bible study.
Journey to the Center
Every year the Rector offers this basic “Introduction to the Faith, Episcopal style.”
Respectfully submitted,
The Rev. Canon Nancy H. Wittig, D. Min.
Adult Spirituality and
Education Offerings
PRAYER GROUP & BOOK GROUP – quiet reflection and sharing, 1:00 - 2:30 pm Mondays
through June.
WEEKLY BIBLE STUDIES – There are two weekly opportunities for Bible Study. The Wednesday
10:30 a.m. to Noon study is for all-comers, and takes place in the parish lounge. The Friday 7:00 a.m.
study is a group of men who meet at Joe’s Deli in Rocky River for breakfast and bible study.
JOURNEY TO THE CENTER – Every year, Keith offers this basic “Introduction to the Christian
Faith, Episcopal style.”
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SUNDAY PROGRAMS – Adult Forums are offered on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. in either the
Parish Undercroft or the Lounge. The Lenten Evening Program is offered on Wednesday evenings
from 6:00 – 8:00 p. m. This program begins with a simple soup supper and then progresses into the
actual program. Childcare is available for all Adult Foums and Lenten Programs. All are welcome.
Spirituality
This past year articles were written for the Fishermen’s Net with the following titles: The Fish
Bowl (on setting priorities), Busy Signal (on God calling us), I’ll keep you in my prayers (on
how we pray for others), The Lord is Risen Alleluia…but sometimes it’s indeed hard to tell
(on getting excited about our faith), The piano and God (on studying and learning about God),
Saints...What Are They? (on saints and what they are), The only constant in our lives is
change (on growing spiritually, Staying on Track (on developing a personal relationship with God.
Please see me if you would like copies of any of these.
In addition to this a men’s prayer group met in the spring every other week for twelve weeks to
study new ways to pray and share their faith. As always I remain open for spiritual direction either
with me or with others I know who are spiritual directors/companions.
Respectfully submitted,
John Carlson, Staff Spiritual Director
Children and Youth
Children, Youth, and Family Ministries Purpose Statement
The purpose of St. Peter’s Christian Formation Program is to enable children of all ages to discover
and know the biblical story of God and God’s people within the context of the beliefs and practices of
the Episcopal Church. One goal of this ministry is to help each participant find guidance and meaning
in their own lives, both alone and in the community, and come to know themselves and others as
children of God. Our committee is comprised of: Jesse Shedden, Jeff Gardner, Jill Mintzlaff, Bill
Grane, Nan Archbold, and Michelle Killin-Keith.
Family Time
We begin each Sunday morning at 9:45am with “Family Time” during the school year. Families take
turns hosting this ten minute session. During this time the host family can do whatever they want.
Some past activities include: reading a favorite story to everyone, decorating cupcakes, playing their
favorite game, putting a puzzle together; it can be anything that interests the host family. We also have
a time set aside each month for Father Keith to be with our families and for Molly Simon to teach us
how to play the hand bells.
Sunday Childcare in the infant and toddler rooms – known as “Pebbles”
Jennifer Williams remains the paid staff person in the toddler room. We have volunteer adults/parents
who serve with Jennifer each Sunday. Average attendance between the two rooms is 6- 8. Jennifer
began using a new resource this year called Play-N-Worship from Group Publishing. The materials
are user-friendly and enjoyed by all.
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Preschool room – known as “Pebbles”
Jill Mintzlaff, Nan Archbold, Jeff and Kristen Gardner, Linda Lange, Betsy Pondelik, Sue Hofelich,
and Jennifer Hammarlund teach in this room. This class continues to use “Spark” by Augsburg
Fortress as a guide while each teacher also adds their individual touch to make each Sunday special for
this young group of 6-8.
Sunday School – “ROCKS” for grades K-5
Bill Grane and helpers; Dennis, Andy, Ryan, and have a wonderful and truly creative experience each
week in the Kindergarten through Second Grade group, while still using “Spark” as a guide. Average
attendance is 6-8.
Kathy Woolner, Kelly Dillon, Megan Sindelar, Hannah Sindelar, Amanda Chamber, and Michelle
Killin-Keith look forward to each week with our “bursting at the seams” group of Third through Fifth
graders. We see about 8-10 on average and are still on the look-out for another meeting spot as we
have outgrown our current one. This room also uses “Spark” but supplements with current local
events these older children are starting to recognize. We spent the latter part of the year preparing for
the Epiphany Pageant. We also purchased an additional Spark resource called the “Bonus CD-ROM”
which has additional and alternative materials for each and every one of our classes.
Children’s Ash Wednesday Service
This past year we held our first every “Children’s Ash Wednesday Service”. Bill Grane took the lead
on this and we purchased the following outline. “Let’s Go! An Invitation to Follow Jesus, An Ash
Wednesday Service for Children”. Let’s Go is an interactive children’s service for use on Ash
Wednesday, the service consists of four interactive stations and a fifth station for the Imposition of
Ashes and Eucharist. Station One: Water: small table, container of water; Station Two: Oil: small
table, container of oil; Station Three: Light: small table, candle, matches or lighter; Station Four:
Alleluia Banner: banner or chart stand, purple net; and Station Five: Ashes/Eucharist: container of
ashes. A dozen children participated and seemed to understand and enjoy the service. We plan to
offer this service again in 2013.
Middle School and High School Bible Study 6-12
Tom Pondelik and Larry Keith continue to offer an array of conversation on current events and relating
these events back to the bible; how the bible tells us to handle the good and the difficult in life. This
middle school class has used Linc resource (Youth connecting faith & life), Nooma videos, and
Grapple.
Nicole Shedden, Jesse Shedden, Matt Fritz (moved this summer) lead an in-depth bible study that
follows the liturgical schedule, mostly focusing on the New Testament reading each week. Attendance
between both groups is about 10. This year again, we recognized our High School graduates with a gift
Bible and a Book of Common Prayer.
Youth Group grades 5-12
Nicole and Jesse Shedden, Matt Fritz (moved this summer), Charlotte Bauer, Larry Keith and Michelle
Killin-Keith continue to lead a great program. We successfully continue to split the group into a fifth
through eighth grade group and a ninth through twelve grade group. The older youth really enjoy
delving deeply into biblical discussion and the younger group enjoys a short lesson and a “get moving”
type of activity. Both groups use a different version of the resource Teen Encounter-meeting God
face-to-face. In closing each Sunday, we all eat together and discuss what we each did, like one big
family at the dinner table. Average attendance including advisers is 20.
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We enjoyed a very busy year participating in Lock-Ins, Photo-Around Town Scavenger Hunt, Ski Trip,
Maundy Thursday Vigil, LHS Barnstormer Plays, Youth Sunday Services, Pool Party, Diocesan Youth
Events, Cooked and Donated to our Community Meal, Ran a Race for Next Step Shelter, Christmas
Caroled to our Shut-Ins. We spent much of the fall discussing a 2013 Summer Mission Trip to Ripley,
West Virginia and currently we are gearing up for the Homeless Awareness Sleep-out.
Safeguarding God’s Children
In accordance with the policies and regulations of our Diocese and Insurance Company, Safeguarding
God’s Children training is required for all those who volunteer their time with anyone at St. Peter’s
under the age of 18 years, and/or are on Vestry. There are always at least two adults or teens (who
have gone through this training) with the children placed in St. Peter’s care. Jill Mintzlaff remains our
certified trainer.
Intergenerational Events
The Easter Brunch participants went on an egg hunt (eggs contained puzzle pieces) then put together
puzzles that contained various messages from holy week. Families were able to walk around and look
at all the different puzzles the family/groups had assembled and viewed the entire story of Holy Week.
The Lent event was making Rosaries, young and older sat together piecing beautiful beads together.
We planned apple picking at the Miller’s Apple Hill, Ltd., which was canceled because of the weather
(and it ended up being a beautiful day). During Advent, we hand crafted Christmas Cards and made a
Jesse Tree. Each Sunday throughout Advent, the kids could make an ornament then when processing
into the sanctuary they adorned the Jesse Tree up by the altar, it was really cute!
Family Fun Nights
Family Fun Nights continued to thrive in 2012. Early in the year we held a “Bounce-off-the-Walls”
party, in May we held a safety night and all branches of the emergency response teams came, the kids
got to climb fire trucks, an ambulance, and police cars, in the summer we had a dinner picnic at a park
in Rocky River, in October we painted pumpkins, bobbed for apples, dressed up in costume and
paraded around the church trick-or-treating. In December we held a movie night watched Prancer in
our pajamas!
Summer Sunday School
2012 was our second year offering summer Sunday school. This was very successful and we saw
between 6-15 children every Sunday. Offering summer Sunday school makes it so much easier for
families to attend and gain the most from each summer service. We again purchased a Vacation Bible
School (VBS) kit to use as our lesson plans. This year we used Hometown Nazareth Where Jesus was
a Kid from Group Publishing. Each lesson/activity was super fun and the kids looked forward to
church with excitement and enthusiasm all summer long.
Vacation Bible School Collaboration with Lakewood Congregational Church
We collaborated with Lakewood Congregational Church (across the street) and served 36 elementary
aged children for a week long in June. We used Cokesbury’s Operation Overboard Going Deep with
God. The kids really enjoyed the week and we capped it off with a service project. Our service project
took us to Huntington Beach where we spent the afternoon cleaning the beach. We look forward to
working together on this again June 24-28, 2013.
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D.O.O.Y.A. Diocese Of Ohio Young Adults (18-30)
The mission of our group is to identify our young adults and somehow find a way to keep them
connected to their church. It seems all too often that our youth graduate, go off to college, start their
careers and we don’t see them much until they are back starting their family and the circle begins
again. Wouldn’t it be great to keep them connected! This year we developed the DOOYA facebook
page, we tried to host a concert series at Cedar Hills called GodStock but as the date approached and
our headliner backed out we had to cancel and put it back on our wish list.
Respectfully submitted,
Michelle Killin-Keith
Director of Music
Sometime after moving to Cleveland just over six years ago, I attended a Sunday Holy Eucharist at St.
Peter’s Church. It was immediately apparent this was a place where worship and liturgy really were at
the heart of the parish—informing and nourishing all the ministries and works coming out of this faith
community. It was also obvious to this church musician that music was one of those valued
components of worship. There was a good sized Choir and also present were several children, vested
and singing, and there was good participation by the assembled congregation. While thinking about
what to write in this year’s music report, I tried to look back over more than just the past year, even as
I am about to invite everyone to think about what we can accomplish in this new year and beyond.
During this past year liturgy and music continued to be a visible and audible affirmation of our
prayer and ministry. Music and choral singing were present for the major festivals and feasts, as well
as the vital week by week parish worship. There were several instrument players from teens to adults
who offered their gifts to our worship. We were grateful to have all four of our college Choral
Scholars returning to sing for another season. In addition, Justin Murphy-Mancini was again our
gifted, non-stipendiary Organ Scholar, for which, we are also extremely grateful.
All of these things are signs of a healthy music program, including the addition of three new
members to the Choir for the Fall season. But now I have to write about another reality that needs and
deserves the attention of our parish. In spite of adding several new singers in the last few years, the
Choir is continuing to diminish in numbers at a rapid pace. This has happened as several people have
moved from the area, but it is mostly because of age and health related issues. For some time this
Choir had a large number of older singers, and it was apparent that many of these people would likely
retire soon. That is already a reality and it will continue with other members in the future. We are so
grateful to these persons, some of whom offered their musical gifts for many years in our liturgies.
The only way this ministry of music will continue will be with the willingness of other parishioners to
come and take the place of our retiring members, but that is just not happening at this time. I still
believe that, in spite of the ever busy lives of teens and adults today, we can seek and receive a positive
response from other people in this congregation. This remains a vital ministry, but if the current trend
is not reversed it will diminish beyond the capability to both offer choral music and to encourage and
lead other worshipers.
A somewhat similar situation has persisted with a music program for our children. We have been
unable to find any regular time that enough children will attend to make this a real possibility. Sunday
mornings for the children (and for me!) are already full, and another rehearsal/learning activity
immediately after Sunday Eucharist proves not a good time for this as well. We are in the midst of a
time of major growth for families with young children and I will continue to seek their involvement
and support, but it cannot happen without actual parents and children willing to make a commitment to
this ministry.
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While this report is the most cautionary one I have offered in the last four years, I remain convinced
that these challenges can be met by this vibrant, living parish community. I will continue to ask that
the volunteering spirit in this parish will extend to keeping music in worship vital, present and alive for
this New Year and for the generations that will follow our time at St. Peter’s Church.
Respectfully submitted,
Michael L. Miller
Director of Music and Organist
Parish Life
The Parish Life Ministry is responsible for many areas of events within the parish. Everything from
intergenerational events to bringing the congregation together for fellowship and fun including coffee
hour, picnics, brunches and other outings fall under its responsibilities. It hosts the “Explore and
Connect” series which is geared to newcomers and others exploring St. Peter’s as a church home. In a
nutshell, Parish Life is FUN! Here’s a look at the past year…
In the past year, parish breakfasts continued to be a vibrant and dynamic ministry under the new
format. The January Parish Breakfast was hosted by the Fitz Families, February by the Keith Family,
and the March breakfast by Women Welcoming Women. There was no April Parish Breakfast due to
Easter. The May Parish Breakfast was hosted by the Chancel Guild. We took a break for the summer,
and September was kicked off with St. Cecelia’s Guild hosting the first Parish Breakfast of the fall
season. October’s breakfast was hosted by St. Peter’s Vestry; and the November breakfast, was once
again is sponsored by the Stewardship Committee and free to all who had turned in a pledge card. It
was spearheaded by Leslie Hannan and her family with goodies like Paula Dean’s Pecan Baked French
Toast Casserole and Ham Strata, with serving and clean-up by the Stewardship committee and Vestry
members. The year concluded with a scrumptious holiday themed breakfast, hosted and prepared by
the Nash, Stenger, and Beredo families, who had so much fun, they offered their services for another
hosting another breakfast in 2013!
Explore and Connect, the series for newcomers was held three times in 2012. This series is
designed to give newcomers an insight into the Episcopal faith and offer them a brief introduction into
life at St. Peter’s. It is held for 4 Sundays with information about St. Peter’s (including an all-
important tour of the building), background on Episcopal Church history and information on potential
ministries for the new members. At the end of the series, participants invited to join St. Peter’s by
becoming actual members. Many members of the Vestry and staff came to greet the newcomers
during the series.
The annual picnic was once again held at Lakewood Park with a moving service under in the
pavilion. The picnic, as usual, was speared headed by Alison LaRosa and Bob Lewis. Parishioners
Don & Donna Ramsden, Jim Ford and Fred Purdy were also instrumental is putting on the picnic.
Unfortunately, Bob and Alison are stepping down after many years of putting on this wonderful event.
We thank Bob and Alison for their many years of service and are currently looking for someone to fill
their shoes.
Janis Carlson is the Coffee hour coordinator. She is stepping down before Lemonade on the Lawn,
in the spring of 2013 so we are looking for a new coordinator. This job, while behind the scene, is a
vitally important ministry for parish members old and new. Coffee hour remains popular after the 10
o’clock service. The third Sunday of every month is birthday Sunday. It is well like by all. Instruction
for parish members hosting coffee hour are available next to the sign-up sheet at the back of the church
and in the cabinet in the kitchen dedicated to coffee hour. Many of the same families tend to
participate in this ministry and new people are encouraged to sign-up.
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Lead by Amanda Wolf, Foyer Groups continue to meet bi-monthly, and gain new wonderful faces
every year! While we had a few bumps in the road during 2012, we had a lot of fun, and 2013 is
looking to be even better. Foyer groups are small groups of parishioners who meet informally every
other month for company and conversation. Each group gets to decide where, when, and how they
would like to plan the time of fellowship. Families, couples, singles, snowbirds – parishioners of all
persuasions and backgrounds are welcomed and encouraged to be a part of the Foyer Group Family.
This is a great way to meet your fellow parishioners outside of Sunday Service.
Parish Life has many activities for all age groups. If you are an event planner, and organizer or
networker or anyone who loves to have fun, this ministry is a natural fit for you!
Respectfully submitted,
Lorna Jordan
Report on the 2012 Convention
On the weekend of November 9-10, 2012, Brad Vandrasik, Pam Darling, and I attended the 196th
Annual Convention of the Diocese of Ohio. The Annual Convention is the opportunity for delegates
from all parishes in good standing in the diocese to meet to discuss diocesan affairs, vote on diocesan
legislation, and gather together for worship and fellowship. This was my first opportunity to serve as a
parish delegate and attend a diocesan convention, and I enjoyed serving in the capacity very much. The
Convention felt like a big “family reunion” and allowed us to meet other Episcopalians from across
northern Ohio and to catch up on what is happening across the diocese and in various parishes.
The first day of Convention opened with prayer, and the rules of order and agenda were reviewed
and agreed upon. Delegates from each parish were seated randomly around round tables to facilitate
“mixing up” the delegations and providing for an atmosphere of conversation and collaboration.
Delegates from St. Peter’s were seated with other parishes in the Cuyahoga Mission Area, allowing us
to talk with other nearby parishes.
The first point of business was to accept the slate of candidates for various diocesan offices and
vote on these candidates. After this first vote, reports from the Treasurer and Secretary were read, and
a special “welcome back” was offered to the parishioners and clergy of St. Barnabas, Bay Village, as
they reported on the replanting of the congregation and the building of a presence for the Episcopal
Church in this community. After a few more reports on business before the Convention, which I will
outline below, the Bishop gave his address to the Convention.
Bishop Hollingsworth gave a thought-provoking address as he outlined some challenges for the
diocese, our parishes, and the Episcopal Church in general in upcoming years. The Bishop offered a
series of “what ifs” around parish needs for lay and ordained ministry, the “graying” of the priesthood,
and spiritual and leadership formation for youth and young adults, and finally the real estate and
capital issues shrinking parishes face. Although his message was that of challenges and change, it was
hopeful and forward-thinking. After the Bishop’s address, we had time to reflect upon it with members
of our table. While no great solutions were discovered in the discussions, and the Bishop admitted that
this was not the purpose of the exercise, we all came away with some new information and insights
into how we can make our parishes and the diocese more responsive and more agile in a changing
environment.
The results of the first vote were announced, and there was no need for a second “run-off” vote. We
then moved on to voting on changes on the canons and constitution of the diocese, resolutions before
the convention, and approving the diocesan budget. The most talked-about resolution before the
convention was on clergy compensation and health insurance premiums for clergy in the diocese.
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This resolution passed and the most pressing result was the authorization for parishes to request up to
5% of the cost of health insurance premiums to be shouldered by the clergy. Some minor changes to
the constitution and canons were passes, the most notable being changing the non-discrimination
statement of the diocese to match that of the national church. Finally, the budget was passed for the
upcoming year which will see a decrease in income for the diocese while keeping expenses flat.
The highlight for me was the Convention Eucharist on Friday night at Christ Church, Shaker
Heights. It was quite the experience to worship and share the Eucharist with so many of our brothers
and sisters from around the diocese. Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, newly elected President of the House of
Deputies of the Episcopal Church, provided the sermon. Although she had spent over 20 hours on a
plane traveling back from New Zealand the day before, she inspired us with a hopeful message about
thinking about the future of the church.
The second day of convention consisted mainly of reports from various offices, committees, and
commissions of the diocese. We heard about plans for retreat and camp ministry that may see the
transition of the diocesan’s efforts in this area from Cedar Hills Camp in Lake County to a new
property in Wakeman, OH that would include sustainable farming and a year-round retreat center. We
also spent some time discussing, in groups, congregational status and grant strategy to ensure that
parishes remain healthy and viable.
Convention was capped off by a humorous Resolution of Courtesy and closing devotions. I thank
the vestry and parish for giving me this opportunity to serve and develop my leadership skills at the
diocesan level. It was a very rewarding experience for me, and I recommend serving to anyone in the
parish.
Respectfully submitted,
Matthew P. Ciszek
Episcopal Church Women
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Women includes all women of the Parish. All women have an open
invitation to participate in any or all of the activities sponsored by ECW. St. Peter's is very fortunate
to have two active women’s guilds which meet monthly from September through June, as well as the
Evening Guild which meets periodically throughout the year.
ST. CECILIA’S meets the third Wednesday of the month. Their primary focus is to organize
interesting field trips during the year--one of the most interesting being a tour of the turn-of-the-
century Cleveland churches with a tour guide from the Historical Society. All interested persons are
welcome to join them.
WOMEN WECLOMING WOMEN meets monthly throughout the year. This guild was organized for
those who are working or have small children. It provides a social outlet for like-minded women. One
of their ministries included asking parishioners to collect and bring to church, hotel toiletries, which
the guild members placed in small plastic baggies and brought to the Zelma George Women’s Shelter
for emergency use.
Due to its declining enrollment and loss of several key figures, ECW is looking to increase its
membership and revitalize its role in the parish. By parish membership alone, all women are members
of the Episcopal Church Women’s guild. If you would like to play a more active role in the ECW,
please contact the office. All of the Guilds welcome new members and offer an invitation to all
interested women.
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St. Cecilia’s Guild
St. Cecilia’s Guild meets on the third Wednesday of each month, September through June. Programs
vary and may include fund-raising, education and entertainment. We are always interested in new
ideas, and we are interested to be of service to St. Peter's as we are able.
We have had an exciting 2012. This year we have been able to assist with several Memorial
Service Receptions. The beautiful silver and lovely style of service for these occasions is a tradition
we inherited from The St. Ann's Guild. They have been wonderful and generous teachers. This is
the second year that we have provided food and served at the First Sunday Continental Breakfast in
September, and it is our intention to do this again.
For our monthly meetings we have had a Scottish Tea and Book Club, and a trip to Trinity Lutheran
Church Concert followed by a luncheon at Le Petit Triangle. We also had a guided tour of Severance
Hall, went on our annual historical church tour led by architectural expert Tim Barrett, lunched at The
Washington Bistro, and had our annual spring luncheon at Houlihan’s.
This fall we had a luncheon at Tommy's Place in October, attended The Cleveland Art Museum to
see The Mary Cassatt exhibit and the New Atrium, and ended the year with a Christmas Luncheon at
The Clifton Club.
Spouses and guests are welcome to join any of the Guild’s planned trips, which often include a
restaurant lunch. Membership in St. Cecilia’s-St. Ann’s Guild is open to all women of St. Peter’s
Church.
Respectfully submitted,
Lois Smith, Tina Uible and Mary Sandberg, honorary chair
Women Welcoming Women
Women Welcoming Woman is a small but thriving ministry. The group meets on the fourth Tuesday
of every month except for November and December at Panera Bread in Rocky River. Meetings
continued over the summer.
In August the group focused on ways to celebrate National Friendship Month in September. It was
part of a rebranding campaign centered on the quote “Scatter seeds of kindness wherever you
go...and watch friendships bloom.” Those words sum up the mission of the Guild to foster
friends and fellowship.
The meetings are filled with laughter and lively conversation while supporting others in the group.
It is very casual with some people coming for all the entire time others just dropping in. Some women
arrived bringing babies in their carriers and other children as well. The Rev. Keith Owen dropped by
over the summer.
At the end of last year, the Guild gathered on a Saturday morning before Christmas and baked huge
deli trays of for the Zelma George Foundation for homeless women.
Other service projects last year included a bake and card sale to benefit the MS Society and the
Prader-Willi Association of Ohio.
Respectfully submitted,
Lorna Jordan
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Outreach & Servant Ministry
2012 was the sixth year for St. Peter’s “Outreach Focus of the Month” program, and we collected a
record $20,406.59 in weekly plate offerings of cash and coin! All of these dollars went directly to the
Outreach Focus of the Month organizations noted below:
January – $1,389.14 + An Anonymous 100% Match – Unto Inc. (for February Mission Trip
to the Dominican Republic) (Sponsor: Wendi Schwartz)
February – $868.00 – National Cathedral Earthquake Restoration Fund (Sponsor: Lorna
Jordan)
March – $1,431.00 – Zelma George Family Shelter (Sponsor: Amanda Chambers)
April – $1,755.40 – Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Ohio (Sponsor: Jennifer
Bolander)
May – $1,584.00 – Bishop’s Appeal / Episcopal Community Services Foundation (Sponsor:
Keith Owen)
June – $1,285.00 – West Side Ecumenical Ministry (Sponsors: Naomi Opdycke & Janis
Carlson)
July – $3,106.00 – Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity (Sponsor: David Anderson)
August – $1,746.00 – The Episcopal West Side Shared Ministry (Sponsors: Scott and Mary
Fitz)
September – $1,183.00 – St. Peter’s Childcare Center (Sponsor: Dave Opdycke)
October – $1,288.00 – The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland (Sponsor: Jeff Gardner)
November – $1,572.05 – Watterson-Lake Elementary School (Sponsors: Nan Miller and
Carolyn Beredo)
December – $3,199.00 – St. Peter’s Community Meal (Sponsor: Monica Owen)
In total, since we commenced the Outreach Focus of the Month program in 2007, St. Peter’s has raised
and distributed $97,275.47 in outreach funds. Each year’s total fundraising has exceeded the previous
year, and it won’t be long before we pass the $100,000 threshold!
As I step down from the Chairman role of the Outreach and Servant Ministry Team, I take great
pride in St. Peter’s as a church that is serious about its outreach ministries. I feel the parish has
supported many very worthwhile non-profit organizations over the years, and we’ve accomplished a
nice level of diversity in terms of the types of organizations we’ve supported.
Congratulations everyone on a great year in outreach! Let’s keep the ball rolling and take our
Outreach Ministries to even higher levels of effectiveness.
Respectfully submitted,
Ken Taylor
Community Meal
The community meal on the second Tuesday of the month continues to be a well-attended and well
supported ministry of St. Peter's. Members of the parish continue to volunteer for all tasks with many
new volunteers during 2012. The meals are planned to make use of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Meals include soup, an entree, fruit, vegetable and dessert plus beverages. Additionally, 466 pounds of
free food received from the Cleveland Food Bank was given away in grocery bags.
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IN
Beginning Balance of Community Meal Fund: $1943.99
Monetary donations through the year: $1066.21
In-kind donations from parishioners: coffee, milk, all desserts, flowers for tables,
kitchen towels
Donations from SYSCO Food Service: 100 ground beef, 100 pounds roast beef,
50 pounds ham, 20 pounds turkey,
2 cases breaded chicken patties,
10 pounds coffee
December 2012 Loose Plate Offering: $3199
OUT
Cost of food for meals, groceries and paper products needed for meals:
Monthly Average Total
# of people served 90 1080
Cost of meals $151.18 $1814.20
Cost/person $1.68 $1.68
Respectfully submitted,
Monica Owen
Share the Blessings Project
This year’s Share the Blessings Project went exceedingly well. The parishioners at St. Peter’s helped
clothe 35 students at Watterson-Lake Elementary School through sponsoring students and donations.
Our budget started the season with $686.25, and ended with $737.55 for next year’s Project. This
included $765.00 in personal donations. We were able to supplement items needed to complete 2
uniforms and outerwear for each student; as well as purchasing the snacks, thank you cards and other
items to make the reception party a success in the amount of $713.70.
We’d like to thank all the people who participated in the Share the Blessings Project at Watterson-
Lake Elementary School. These people worked with the children while measuring them and learning
about their individual stories: Megan and Margaret Sindelar, Cindy Berish, Rev. Nancy Wittig,
Carolyn Beredo, Mary and Scott Fitz, Jennifer and Abby Williams, Natalie Hannan, Rachel and Claire
Schwartz, and Wendi Schwartz.
Respectfully submitted,
Wendi Schwartz & Jennifer Williams
Prayer Shawl Ministry
The Prayer Shawl Ministry consists of women knitting or crocheting prayer shawls or comfort shawls
as they are also know. The shawls are given to shut-ins, parish members and for other people deemed
appropriate by the clergy. A handful of women are participating in this ministry. We are always
looking for more knitters and crocheters.
We have blessed shawls at various services throughout the year. At the 10:00 a.m. service, they are
actually placed on the Crossing Altar for all to see and feel.
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The blessings of this ministry include this writing from Janet Bristow (Copyright 2009): “Shawls
... made for centuries universal and embracing, symbolic of an inclusive,
unconditionally loving, God. They wrap, enfold, comfort, cover, give solace, mother,
hug, shelter, and beautify. Those who have received these shawls have been uplifted and
affirmed, as if given wings to fly above their troubles...”
Respectfully submitted,
Lorna Jordan
Pastoral Care
The Pastoral Care Committee is now reaching its second year of existence with the Pastoral Partners
Program. This year we have been focused on refining the Program so that we give the needed support
to the Team Leaders, and also manage the influx of new parishioners so that they are promptly added
to a Team for early contact and inclusion.
Team Leaders have met quarterly to share experiences and to discuss how we can better develop
and expand this ministry. We attempt to make light contact with each Partner on a regular basis and
also to pass on to clergy any special needs for pastoral care.
This year we added the ministry of Martha’s Table which is being led by Janis Carlson and Lorna
Jordan. We plan to keep a supply of casseroles on hand to be delivered to those parishioners who may
be in need of a meal or meals from time to time. Having the casseroles prepared in advance makes the
process a little easier at the time a delivery is needed.
We have an ongoing need for Team Leaders and for assistance with the administration of the
Martha’s Table ministry, both in terms of the donation of meal provisions and home delivery of those
meals. If you have an interest, please contact Keith or Nancy, our clergy, Janis or Lorna, or your
Leaders below.
Respectfully submitted,
Debbie Sefcek, Sara Ferry, Gina Massetti
Martha’s Table
In 2012, a group of women in the parish resurrected Martha’s Table. This is a ministry of people who
donate their services by providing meals for other parishioners who need assistance with food during
or after an illness or hospitalization of a family member or other type of crisis or emergency.
Members of St. Peter’s regularly provided for these needs over the years. This is a more intentional
and organized effort. The restart of this ministry was prompted in February 2012 when Annika
Mintzlaff was hospitalized for nearly a week. Upon her release, a group of women provided a week’s
worth of meals, freeing up the family to attend to Annika’s illness and appointments with various
doctors, without the worry of meal planning and grocery shopping. After that successful attempt,
Martha’s Table was reborn.
In 2012, 25 people joined the ministry and over 55 meals were cooked and delivered to 8 families.
The “cooks” provide families with one complete meal during their time of need. It is a fresh,
homemade meal or something as simple as picking up pizza and salad or other take-out items. In
addition, the church freezer is stocked with some meals for immediate use. In 2012, a number of
women cooked meals for the freezer. Some of those meals have been used but quite a number of meals
remain ready for use at any time.
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So far, this ministry is fully funded by the people cooking the meals despite requests for monetary
donations from the parish. Parishioners can write a check and put Martha’s Table in the memo line.
This aspect of the ministry, however, did not net any money in 2012.
Martha’s Table is a wonderful ministry for people to provide something concrete in a time of need.
It has filled a hole in our pastoral ministries. Sometimes the clergy contacted the coordinators of the
program to kick off the meal program. Other times members of the parish bring the need to the
attention of the coordinators.
Respectfully submitted,
Janis Carlson & Lorna Jordan
Flower Delivery Volunteers
Every Sunday of the year, with the exception of Palm Sunday, Easter and Christmas, two members of
St. Peter’s parish each receive on of the lovely floral arrangements that adorned our altar that day.
Faithful, devoted volunteers of the Flower Delivery Team deliver these flowers to parish members.
We believe that this timely connection between those who are worshipping in church on Sundays and
those who are unable to attend services, is indeed an important part of the pastoral ministry at St.
Peter’s.
We would like to thank the members of the flower delivery team for their devoted service; Carolyn
Beredo, Jim and Linda Good, Bill Grane, Naomi Opdycke, Brad and Deb Vandrasik, Cherie Bauer,
and Dottie O’Neill. We would like to welcome Jeff Tennant and Sarah Taylor to the team. And,
finally, we would like to bid a fond farewell to Anne Kroehle, John and Betsy Yingling, and Paul and
Wendi Schwartz, for their faithful years of service as volunteers on the Flower Delivery Team.
Everyone receiving the altar flowers have been touched to be remembered, either for their birthday or
anniversary, for their illness, or just to be remembered by the caring people of St. Peters. Without
these volunteers, we could not fulfill our mission and complete this ministry. Thanks to all the
members, past and present for a job well done.
Individuals or couples may serve on the Flower Delivery Team. We are in need of more volunteers.
Anyone interested in joining us in this rewarding ministry to our own church family is welcome.
Please call the office for more information.
Eucharistic Visitors
Eucharistic Visitors are licensed by the Bishop, upon the recommendation and approval of the Rector,
to take the sacrament to the ill and infirm after celebrations on Sundays or major feast days. This
ministry supports the work of the priests and deacons of the church. St. Peter’s currently has five
Eucharistic Visitors who visit the homebound on a rotating basis. If you are interested in becoming an
EV, please speak to the Rector.
Respectfully submitted,
Bill Grane
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Buildings & Grounds
After several years of large scale project activity, 2012 was overall a less intense year for our
committee. Members Mike Hammarlund, Dave Tabar and ex-officio member Jim Klomfas have
continued their involvement with the details of the HVAC installation, electrical renovations, and
lighting and sound amplification issues. Numerous parishioners including the above have been
involved in one or more of the following Building and Grounds matters during 2012:
Spring and Fall Grounds Cleanup Days, which serve to not only spruce up our corner, but
provide a pleasant social time for participants
Further refinements were made to the HVAC installation, and training was held to achieve
effective use of the new equipment
Decorative oak paneling designed and obtained through the architectural firm StudioTechne
was installed in the sanctuary to cover openings which formerly hid the radiators; of particular
note is the large and elaborate panel below the St Peter's window at the Detroit Road end of the
sanctuary
The concrete parking lot pavement was professionally sealed in the Fall
Several tree stumps were removed and additional flowers and perennial plants installed on the
grounds.
For 2013, our Committee anticipates modifications to the interior tower entrance doors, continuing
painting projects particularly along the ambulatory corridor and West Clifton entrance hallways,
renovation of the lawn and plantings, repair of the sprinkling system, and the installation of concrete
traffic control abutments at the parking lot entrance. The Committee sincerely thanks all who have
participated in our activities and cordially invites the participation of interested parishioners.
Respectfully submitted,
Tim Simon
Garth Guild
HISTORY AND PURPOSE
The enclosed courtyard garden area, located in the center of the church buildings, is cared for by a
few parishioners .This area is called a “GARTH” and is a ‘quiet, peaceful space’ that can provide a
respite to all who seek it. New volunteers are always welcome and no gardening experience is
necessary. Spring clean-up & planting annuals, weekly weeding and minimal maintenance and then
closing the garden in the autumn with bulb planting are major tasks. A sign-up sheet for weekly
volunteers will be posted on the small bulletin board in the lobby adjacent to the parking lot entrance in
May.
GOALS FOR 2013
Increase the number of volunteers to facilitate weekly maintenance. A few hours per season
would be appreciated. This garden will need a new chairperson in 2014 as we plan to relocate
out-of-state. It has been my pleasure to serve as the coordinator for these past several years.
Special appreciation to Jeanette Stewart for her gift of financial support which made major
structural and plant acquisition possible.
Reset sculpture which was removed due to building renovations,
Continue to develop and add plantings of a ‘Biblical Garden ‘ from ancient Israel. These are
identified by common name, scientific designation and Biblical reference and verse.
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Thanks….to all volunteer helpers and to Tom Newman, sexton, for the time spent during the 2012
season.
I wish to send my appreciation to those who volunteered to ‘winter-over’ the non-hardy, tropical
plants for replanting next year. This helps contain the yearly costs of maintaining the garden,
Please contact Liz Vinson if interested in becoming a part of the Garth team.
[email protected] or 440-454-0583 (cell #)
Respectfully submitted,
Liz Vinson
Administration & Finance Ministry The Administration and Finance Ministry continued to be a huge contribution to the parish and to the
Treasurer this year, providing support to the Treasurer, the staff and making recommendations to the
Vestry. The members of this Committee include Jim Calhoun, Dick Furry, Dan Lammers, and Rick
Nash. Our responsibilities include:
To provide ongoing detailed support to the Vestry in its financial management oversight of
the church and its operations.
To provide policy and procedural support to ensure that all of the administrative and
financial related processes of St. Peter’s have been thoughtfully developed for adequate
internal controls, efficiency and effectiveness.
To provide annual administrative and technical support in the matters of risk management,
including property and casualty insurance and directors and officers insurance, as well as
employee benefit oversight, including hospitalization and other related issues for applicable
lay staff.
To provide annual administrative and technical support in the matter relating to the
development of an annual budget.
To provide administrative and technical support in the matters of ensuring personnel and
human resource management have been legally and properly handled, including the annual
performance appraisals of the Rector and his / her lay staff.
To assist the Rector, as well as office and accounting staff on matters that support the parish
and its operations.
To provide fiscal and administrative continuity during periods of Rector and Vestry officer
transition, to ensure continued fiscal integrity, adequate management and sound decision-
making.
Our Committee meets periodically before the Vestry meeting, once financial reports are available. Our
Committee is accountable to the Vestry, as we assist in fulfilling the Vestry’s financial oversight
responsibility by providing financially experienced members with a bit more time to review the
finances than Vestry members may have at their monthly meetings. As a result, any Vestry member is
also always welcome to attend, and we welcome any questions from parishioners. Parishioners who
would like to assist us in this role, or perhaps increase their own knowledge of financial operations of
the parish are welcome to join this ministry.
Respectfully submitted,
Dan Lammers
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Stewardship Committee
This year’s returning members of the
Stewardship Committee were Fred Purdy
(Chairman), Keith Savidge, Susan Jensen,
Jenni Baker, and Fred Bauer. We were
pleased to be joined by new members Gary
Bish and Jeff Tennant. Under the campaign
theme “St. Peter’s – A Renewing
Community” the committee worked from
June through December to plan and carry out
the stewardship campaign activities.
The campaign utilized some new techniques
this year, including two ice-cream socials
following the “summer hours” services in
August. We used these events to announce
our campaign goal of increasing our
combined pledge commitments in response to
financial necessities facing us in 2013, as well
as some desired growth and support for our
staff and ministries. At a combined
Stewardship Committee and Vestry retreat in
September our church leadership was
requested to respond to the appeal by returning their pledges prior to the official campaign kickoff in
October, and their response was one of unanimous support. It was a harbinger of things to come!
Due to the generosity of the Stewardship Committee members and Gallo Displays, we created and
produced the beautiful stewardship brochure without impacting the parish budget. Once again we
benefitted from the creative writing talents of Jenni Baker who authored the narrative budget for the
brochure.
Numerous Fisherman’s Net articles and insertions in the What’s Happening bulletins from August
through November were focused on the broader perspective of stewardship as well as the specifics of
our parish requirements.
Our message was heard, and the parish, in a wonderful outpouring of generosity, demonstrated their
support for St. Peter’s by helping us reach our goals. At the December vestry meeting a budget for
2013 was approved that is fully funded by our pledge commitments.
In 2013 we will:
Provide adequate health care coverage for our rector and full-time parish staff and their families
Provide a modest increase in compensation to the remaining parish staff
Increase the hours of our Youth and Children’s Minister each week to meet the threshold for a
pension contribution by the church.
Campaign Target - $493,000 (including 2012 deficit, 2013 healthcare
requirements, and revised diocesan assessment)
Total Amount of Pledges Received – $473,826
Total Number of Pledges - 166
Number of Pledges Increased from 2012 – 89
Number of New Pledges - 18
Respectfully submitted,
Fred Purdy
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Acolyte Service, Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers
Each year we are grateful for the time and energy contributed by parishioners who participate in the
Sunday morning worship service. Truly without this ministry it would be very difficult to experience
the depth of spiritual connection that most of us enjoy on Sunday mornings. This year I would like to
personally thank EACH of you, beginning with my co-Verger, Martha Taylor. Without her and her
entire family, our Sunday mornings would appear very different.
It is always risky to specifically identify people by name since there is always a chance that
someone is forgotten. At the risk of facing that embarrassment, I would like to acknowledge those
people who make our Sundays something special. Our current roster of worship service volunteers, at
this writing include:
Torch Bearing Acolytes: Peter Vandrasik, Emma Opdyke, Will Baker, Henry Bish, Abbigail
Opdycke, Caitlyn Keyser, James Cook, Katie Bolander, Patrick Fitz and Truman Ospelt
Acolytes who carry the Crucifer and Clergy crosses: Alison Owen, Martha Taylor, Michael
Calleson, Will Crosby, Gaby Hammarlund, Brad Bolander, Jennifer Carlson, Chris Vandrasik,
Jonathon Fitz, Gordon Taylor, Stuart Taylor, Alena Lassen and Josh Owen
Our Lectors include: Don Blesse, Grant Lawson, Pat Wielinski, Scott Fitz, Pat Ashmun, John
Carlson, Molly Simon, Joann Newman, Bill Grane. Hilary Bickerton, Will Crosby, Anne
Kroehle, Kate McHale, Deb Vandrasik, Jennifer Bolander, Carrie Cofer, Joanne Hull, Gretchen
Derethik, Jim Cofer. Brad Vandrasik, Anida Balmer, Liz Vinson, Chas Geiger, Jim Calhoun,
Nan Miller, Ken Taylor, Amanda Brown Love, Jeff Tennant, Alena Lassen, and Ellen
Szymanski
Our Chalice Bearers include: Wendy Lawson, Anida Balmer, Kate McHale, Scott Fitz, Don
Blesse, Jim Cofer, Joanne Hull, Pat Ashmun, Anne Kroehle, Nan Miller, Hilary Bickerton,
Chas Geiger, Deb Vandrasik, Kathy Woolner, Bill Grane, and Ken Taylor
I, too, would like to express my gratitude to all who have served at the 8:00 a.m service over the
past year. Special thanks to our lectors: Jim Ford, Carolyn Beredo, Sara Ferry, Jan Babbit, and
Debbie Sefcek; our Chalice Bearers: Sara Ferry, Jan Babbit, Debbie Sefcek, and Bob Lewis; and our
Acolytes: Sara Ferry, Debbie Sefcek, Richard Jacquemotte, and Alison LaRosa.
We are always willing to include new members in our ranks. If this is a ministry in which you
would like to participate, please join us!
Respectfully submitted,
Gina Massetti & Elizabeth A. Crosby
Chancel Guild
St. Peter’s Chancel Guild is comprised of four teams for a total of 27 members. Each team serves for
two weeks at a time, every six weeks. It is our duty to prepare the Church and the Elements for all
services and care for the linens and vestments and supplies used in these services.
In the past year we have prepared for and served at 2 weddings, 6 Baptisms, 10 funerals, 10
Confirmations, 45 Wednesday Services and over 108 services, including 8 services during Holy Week,
and 4 Christmas services including a Blue Christmas service, 2 Christmas Eve services and 1 service
on Christmas Day.
Our ministry is funded through St. Peter’s budget, however, memorial gifts are welcomed and when
received are used to purchase worship items to glorify God in His Church.
There were no major expenditures this past year; however some repair work was done on 3 small
glass cruets used in the home communion sets for “upkeep”.
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A Winter Brunch was held in January for a short business meeting and socializing.
Three new members joined us this year, Matt Ciszeh to team #1 (first guy EVER in this parish, and we
are proud to have him!), Sue Andrews to team #2, Wadia Salah to team #3. Mary Fitz will be team
leader for team#4, with Samantha remaining on the team. We welcome all of you and hope you will
find spiritual growth in this mission, as we have.
On June 30, 2012, The Spring luncheon was held. At that time, I handed over the leadership of this
wonderful group of people to Cathe Step, currently the captain of team #3, to be the Directress of the
Chancel Guild. I will however, remain on team #1 as a “member” of that team.
I have enjoyed every minute of my term as directress, but feel the call to “follow, not lead” at this
time in my life. I know all of the members will give Cathe the love and support given to me in the last
six years.
As always, I would like to thank Bill Grane and his group of volunteers who tend to the brass cleaning
and polish several times during the year.
My thanks also, to Keith for his patience and support, and understanding, to Leslie Hannan, who
keeps me “on track”, Donna Felleisen who keeps us “within the budget”, and Tom Newman who is
always there to help with anything and everything.
My special thanks to all the members of the Guild for all that they do. It is an honor to serve God
and His church.
Parishioners interesting in joining the Chancel Guild can call the church at 216-226-1772, or Cathe
Step at home (216)221-6081 Cell (216)534-3930
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra Applegate, Directress Emeritus
Ushers
The ushers are an integral part of each St. Peter’s service. They pass out service bulletins, assist with
seating when needed, and take up the collection and direct traffic to communion.
Two person crews, scheduled on a rotation basis, serve the 8:00 a.m. service. Special services are
staffed as needed, using volunteers from the entire usher pool.
For many, many years, Margaret Hull has been shepherding the 8:00 a.m. ushers. This year, she
has decided to retire from that service. While Margaret may, from time to time, still usher, she will
turn her quarterly duties over to Jane Nash. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Margaret
for a job, exceedingly well done, and welcome Jane as “usher captain” of the 8:00 team.
There are six crews of ushers for the 10:00 a.m. service. They serve for a month every six months.
It is the goal of the head ushers to have each team consist of 8 people; new volunteers are needed,
please call the office if you are interested in serving. There is also a “free-agent” pool of ushers, for
those who need flexibility.
We would like to thank everyone who has participated as an usher in the past year. Your help has
been greatly appreciated. For those who would like to help, this is a “no-brainer” mission. Just sign
up, and pick your days. The duties are simple, easily mastered, and very important!
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Communication
The Communication Ministry’s goals are to maintain open sharing of information, keep the parish
informed of Vestry decisions and directions, support connectedness and community within the parish,
and create an inviting presence to those outside the parish.
We continue to strive to meet these goals. The NET, the monthly newsletter, and the What’s
Happening, the weekly bulletin, remain the most recognizable sources of printed information. The
Net continues to be the place to publicize parish events, ministry news, Vestry highlights, prayer rotas
and the parish calendar. The deadline for the NET is the 15th
of the month.
The parish website, www.stpeterslakewood.org, is also available for viewing the NET, weekly
What’s Happening, and the quarterly Worship Rota as well as the weekly readings. The website also
has additional information about St. Peter’s, its ministries, and how to get involved with the church.
St. Peter’s also has a Face book site; so join us and become a friend of St. Peter’s!
The Communication Ministry is constantly striving to keep parishioners informed and the lines of
communication open. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the office or a member of the
Vestry. Also, if you have a change of address or phone number, please let the office know as soon as
possible.
Anglican Partners & Friends
The goal of Anglican Partners and Friends is to provide information to St. Peter’s congregation about
what is happening in other Episcopal parishes in the communities close to St. Peter’s as well as
throughout the Diocese of Ohio, and allows for a better understanding as to how the Episcopal Church
in the United States participates in our lives and what our roles are in the life of the wider church.
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By-Laws
Adopted by way of Annual Meeting
January 28, 2001
Amended January 29, 2006
Amended January 22, 2012
CODE OF REGULATIONS
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Lakewood, Ohio
The Parish of St. Peter’s Church is a not-for-profit corporation formed under
the laws of the State of Ohio on January 22, 1921 pursuant to charter number 95287.
Preamble: This Code of Regulations is adopted pursuant to the authority granted by
Chapter 1702 of the Ohio Revised Code. These Regulations shall govern the corporate and
temporal affairs of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, subject to the laws of the State of Ohio, to the
Constitution & Canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America (the
“Episcopal Church”) and to those of the Episcopal Diocese of Ohio (the “Diocese”).
ARTICLE I
Members
Section 1. Ordinary Members. All persons who have been baptized, whether in
the Episcopal Church or in another Christian church, and whose Baptisms have been duly
recorded in the Episcopal Church, and who regard St. Peter’s Episcopal Church (the “parish”)
as their regular place of worship, shall be Ordinary Members of the parish.
Section 2. Voting Members. Every person not less than 16 years of age who has
been an Ordinary Member of the parish for at least six months preceding the day when the
person may wish to vote, and who shall have been, for the period aforesaid, a communicant in
good standing in the Episcopal Church and enrolled as such in the records of the parish, shall
be a Voting Member thereof, with the right to vote in the election of Vestry members and upon
all other matters having to do with the affairs of the parish. A communicant in good standing
means an Ordinary Member of the parish not less than sixteen years of age who has received
Holy Communion in the parish at least three (3) times in the preceding year, and who for the
preceding year has been faithful in corporate worship, unless for good cause prevented, and has
been faithful in working, praying and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God.
The Rector shall maintain a current list of communicants in good standing as
determined by the Rector’s best judgment according to the Canons of the Episcopal Church.
The presiding officer of any meeting shall be the judge of the qualifications of any person to
vote who shall offer to do so, subject, however, to appeal and final determination by a simple
majority of the Voting Members present at such meeting.
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Section 3. Annual Meetings. There shall be an annual meeting of the Voting Members of
the parish at which all Ordinary Members shall be welcome but shall have no vote. Unless
otherwise provided by resolution of the Vestry, the Annual Meeting shall be held on the third
Sunday of January each and every year. The business to be transacted at the annual meeting of
Voting Members shall include the election of Vestry members, consideration and action upon
reports of the Rector, Officers, Vestry members and committees, and any other business within
the power of the parish as a not-for-profit corporation of the State of Ohio.
The Rector shall be the presiding officer of the annual meeting. In the absence of the
Rector, the order of priority of the presiding officers shall be (1) the Senior Warden, (2) the
Junior Warden, and (3) the Clerk of the Vestry. If none of the above are present, the Voting
Members in attendance may elect as presiding officer, by majority vote, any Voting Member
present.
Section 4. Special Meetings. At any time during the interval between annual
meetings, special meetings of the Voting Members, at which all Ordinary Members shall also
be welcome, may be called by (1) the Rector, (2) by not less than one-third of the Vestry
members, or (3) upon the written request of not less than fifty Voting Members filed with the
Rector, or in the Rector’s absence, with the Senior Warden. The presiding officer of the
meeting shall be determined in the manner set forth in Section 3 above.
Section 5. Notice and Place of Meetings. All meetings of members, both annual
and special, shall be held at the parish at the time specified in the notice. Notice of all
meetings shall be given (1) by announcement at services in the parish on at least two Sundays
immediately preceding the date of the meeting, (2) by publication in the weekly bulletin of the
parish, if there be such a bulletin, in not less than two issues immediately preceding the
meeting, and (3) by regular U.S. mail to all Ordinary and Voting members of the parish not
less than thirty days prior to the meeting. Such notice shall indicate whether the meeting is an
annual meeting or a special meeting, and if a special meeting, the business to be transacted.
No business other than that specified in the notice shall be transacted at special meetings. The
notice shall also contain the procedure for the nomination of candidates for Vestry member, by
Voting Members of the parish, as set forth in Section 3 of Article II of these Regulations.
Article II
The Vestry
Section 1. Eligibility. Every Voting Member of the parish, as defined in Section 2
of Article I of these Regulations, who has made and maintained a pledge during the preceding
year, shall be eligible to serve as a Vestry member.
Section 2. Number and Term of Office. The Vestry of the parish shall consist of
the Rector and twelve lay members chosen from among the Voting Members eligible to serve.
(For purposes of implementation, the Vestry in 2013 shall consist of no more than 14
members, and in 2014 of no more than 13 members, and thereafter of 12). Of the twelve lay
members, four shall be elected each year and shall serve three-year terms. A lay member shall
take office as Vestry member immediately upon election.
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No lay member shall be eligible for re-nomination and re-election to the Vestry for a period of
one year after the member’s term has expired, provided, however, that service on the Vestry in
filling a vacancy shall not be considered a disqualification for immediate re-election.
One additional Vestry seat shall be held by a voting member who, at the time of election, is
between the ages of 16 and 18. One person shall be elected each year to hold this seat for a
term of one year, and may stand for re-election. An individual may occupy this seat for no
more than three consecutive terms.
Section 3. Nomination. Voting Members shall be nominated to serve as
Vestry members in the following manner:
No less than ninety days in advance of each annual meeting, a Nominating Committee
consisting of six Voting Members shall be appointed in accordance with the following
formula: three members shall be selected by the Rector from the congregation at large, and
three shall be selected by the Vestry from the retiring Vestry members. The Nominating
Committee shall nominate at least as many Voting Members to serve as there shall be
vacancies in the Vestry to be filled. The Nominating Committee shall submit to the Vestry the
names of those persons so nominated not less than forty-five days prior to the annual meeting,
and the Vestry shall immediately make known to the congregation by publication in the parish
bulletin, or by such other means as the Vestry may select, the names of those so nominated.
Any group of five or more Voting Members may nominate a candidate or candidates for
the office of Vestry member by submitting such nomination or nominations over their
signatures to the Clerk of the Vestry no later than two weeks prior to the annual meeting. The
Vestry shall immediately make known to the congregation by publication in the parish bulletin,
or by such other means as the Vestry may select, the names of any such additional nominees.
No person shall be nominated for Vestry member unless the person has agreed to serve
if elected.
Section 4. Election. Vestry members shall be elected at the annual meeting by the
Voting Members present and voting thereat. Voting by proxy shall not be permitted. Those
receiving the highest number of votes for the vacancies to be filled shall be deemed elected. In
the event of a tie vote that prevents the proper number of Vestry members from being elected,
a coin shall be tossed in the presence of the tellers to determine the person elected.
Section 5. Vacancies. If by reason of death, resignation, or any
other cause a vacancy shall occur in the Vestry, the remaining Vestry members may, by a
majority vote of those present at a duly constituted meeting, elect an eligible person to fill such
vacancy for the unexpired term thereof. In the discretion of the Vestry, any such vacancy may
also be filled by nomination and election by the Voting Members at any annual meeting in the
manner provided in Section 3 above.
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Section 6. Duties and Powers. The Vestry shall take charge of the property of the
parish and its business interests except those reserved to the Rector. It shall also be the duty of
the Vestry to provide the clergy with compensation consistent with the provisions of the Canon
“Of Minimum Clergy Compensation,” to pay all lawful assessments of the parish, to keep
order in the Church during Divine Service, and in general, to assist in the furtherance of the
Gospel and the well-being of the parish.
Section 7. Meetings. Regular meetings of the Vestry shall be held on the third
Monday of each month, or at such time as the Vestry may provide. Special meetings may be
held at any time or place as called by the Rector, by the Senior Warden in consultation with the
Vestry Officers, or by not less than one-third of the number of Vestry members.
Notice of the time and place of all regular and special meetings shall be given to each
Vestry member in person, by telephone, or by electronic mail, at least forty-eight hours in
advance of such meeting, or by regular U.S. mail posted not less than three days preceding the
date of such meeting. No business shall be transacted at special meetings except that specified
in the notice.
Section 8. Quorum and Presiding Officer. A majority of Vestry members shall
constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Vestry. Officers who
are not members of the Vestry shall not be counted for purposes of determining a quorum.
Except as otherwise provided in this Code of Regulations, the act of the majority present at a
meeting at which a quorum is present is an act of the Vestry. The Rector, or such other Vestry
member as the Rector shall designate, shall preside at all meetings of the Vestry.
Article III
Officers of the Vestry
Section 1. Titles of Officers. The Officers of the parish shall be the Rector, a
Senior Warden, a Junior Warden, a Clerk of the Vestry, a Treasurer and such other officers as
the Vestry may from time to time designate.
Section 2. Election. The Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Clerk of the Vestry, and
Treasurer shall be elected annually by a majority vote at the first meeting of the Vestry held
after the annual meeting. The Wardens shall be elected by the Vestry from among their own
number. The Clerk of the Vestry and the Treasurer must be Voting Members of the parish,
eligible to serve on the Vestry, and may, but need not, be members of the Vestry. Any vacancy
in any office shall be filled for the unexpired term thereof by a majority vote of the Vestry.
Section 3. The Rector. For all purposes of these Regulations, the Rector shall be
deemed a Voting Member of the Parish. The Rector of the parish shall be the president and
chief executive officer of the parish and shall perform such duties and have such powers as
may be prescribed by the Constitution & Canons of the Episcopal Church and of the Diocese.
The Rector shall be elected by majority vote of the entire Vestry and shall continue to serve
until death or resignation or until the pastoral relationship is severed by mutual consent of the
Rector and Vestry and approved by the Bishop or Ecclesiastical authority of the Diocese.
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Section 4. The Church Wardens. The Senior Warden shall serve as lay
consultant and advisor to the Rector and shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to
the Senior Warden by the Vestry. The Senior Warden shall be the senior lay officer of the
parish.
The Junior Warden shall share leadership with the Senior Warden and shall perform
such other duties as may be assigned to the Junior Warden by the Vestry.
Section 5. The Clerk of the Vestry. The Clerk of the Vestry shall record the
minutes of all meetings of the Vestry and of all annual and special meetings of the Voting
Members in a suitable minute book, which shall be maintained in the parish office. The Clerk
of the Vestry shall be charged with the responsibility of keeping current at least two copies of
the Code of Regulations which shall be open to inspection in the parish office at reasonable
business hours by an Ordinary Member or Voting Member of the parish. In addition, the Clerk
of the Vestry shall perform such other duties as may be assigned to the Clerk by the Vestry.
Section 6. The Treasurer. The Treasurer shall keep the financial records of the
parish and shall have general custody of all parish funds, securities and other investments. All
monies received by the parish shall be delivered to the Treasurer, and all expenses and other
payments shall be made by the Treasurer, or under the Treasurer’s direction. The Treasurer
shall make a report as to the general financial condition of the parish at the annual meeting of
the Voting Members and such other reports from time to time as the Vestry may request.
Section 7. Assistant Treasurer. The Vestry may at any time or from time to time
elect one or more Assistant Treasurers who shall do and perform such duties of the Treasurer
as the Treasurer may assign to them.
Section 8. Other Officers. Such other officers as may be designated by the Vestry
from time to time shall have and perform such powers and duties as may be assigned to them
by the Vestry.
Article IV
Committees; Diocesan Delegates
Section 1. Designation by Vestry. The Vestry may designate regular and special
committees for such purposes as may be indicated in the resolution or resolutions providing
therefore. Committee appointments shall be made jointly by the Rector and Senior Warden,
with the advice and counsel of the Vestry and its Officers.
Section 2. Election of Lay Delegates. No less than ninety days prior to each
annual meeting of the Convention of the Diocese of Ohio, the lay delegates from the parish to
the Convention shall be elected by the Vestry.
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Article V
Fiscal Matters
Section 1. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the parish shall be the calendar year.
Section 2. Signature to Commercial Paper. All checks and drafts shall be made,
drawn, and endorsed in the name of the parish in such manner as the Vestry may from time to
time authorize.
Section 3. Limitation on Expenditures. Any expenditure in excess of $1,000.00
not specifically provided for in the current annual budget of the parish must be approved in
advance by the Vestry. All other expenditures shall be made in accordance with the Policies
and Procedures Manual of the parish.
Section 4. Audit. The financial books and records of the parish
shall be audited annually in the manner designated by the Diocese. Such audit shall be
presented to the Vestry no later than the last regularly-scheduled Vestry meeting prior to the
deadline for submission of the audit to the Diocese. The audit shall be filed with the records of
the parish.
Section 5. Fidelity Bond. The Treasurer and such other officers,
employees or other persons handling parish funds, whether salaried or non-salaried, as the
Vestry may direct from time to time, shall be bonded for the faithful performance of their
duties at the expense of the parish, in such amounts and by such surety companies as the
Vestry may determine.
Section 6. Business Methods. Business methods utilized by the parish shall
conform with the Constitution & Canons of the Episcopal Church and those of the Diocese.
Section 7. Special Circumstances. Adoption of a resolution authorizing (1) an
annual budget projecting a year end deficit, (2) the purchase, sale or encumbrance of real
property, (3) the expenditure or forgiveness of a debt in excess of ten thousand dollars
($10,000.00), or (4) or a contract in excess of three years in duration must be read at two
different Vestry meetings scheduled a minimum of fourteen days apart. After the first meeting
and at least ten days prior to the second meeting, copies of the proposed resolution shall be
conspicuously posted in the parish or summarized in a general mailing to the parish. No such
resolution shall be passed without the concurrence of two-thirds of the members of the Vestry.
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Article VI
Amendment to Code of Regulations
These regulations may be amended by a majority of the Voting Members of the parish in
attendance at a special meeting called for that purpose or at an annual meeting. Notice that an
amendment shall be considered at an annual or special meeting shall be included in the written
notice of that particular meeting which is to be sent by regular U.S. mail to all Ordinary and
Voting members of the parish not less than thirty days prior to the meeting (in accordance with
Article I, Section 5 of these Regulations). The notice shall include a brief description of the
nature of the amendment and shall further state that copies of the amendment shall be made
available at the parish.
Adopted January 28, 2001
Amended January 29, 2006
Amended January 22, 2012
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