Table of Contents Agenda 1 The Structure of the Church 2 Minutes of Annual Meeting 2014 3 Election of Vestry 5 Vestry Nominees Biographies 5 Rector’s Annual Report 7 Deacon’s Report 8 Senior Warden’s Report 9 Junior Warden’s Report 9 Treasurer’s Report 10 Finance 18 Fundraising Committee 18 Counters & Contribution Stewards 18 Buildings & Grounds 19 Building & Grounds Committee 19 Congregational Garden 20 Emergency Preparedness 20 Worship 21 Services 21 Eucharistic Prayer Ministry 21 Acolytes 22 Music Ministry 22 Music Committee 23 St. Mary’s Altar Guild 23 Lay Reader and Eucharistic Ministers 23 Ushers 24 Pastoral Care Ministry 24 Tai Chi Ministry 24 Christian Formation 26
Transcript
Table of ContentsAgenda 1
The Structure of the Church 2
Minutes of Annual Meeting 2014 3
Election of Vestry 5
Vestry Nominees Biographies 5
Rector’s Annual Report 7
Deacon’s Report 8
Senior Warden’s Report9
Junior Warden’s Report 9
Treasurer’s Report 10
Finance18
Fundraising Committee 18
Counters & Contribution Stewards 18
Buildings & Grounds 19
Building & Grounds Committee 19
Congregational Garden 20
Emergency Preparedness 20
Worship 21
Services 21
Eucharistic Prayer Ministry 21
Acolytes 22
Music Ministry 22
Music Committee 23
St. Mary’s Altar Guild 23
Lay Reader and Eucharistic Ministers 23
Ushers 24
Pastoral Care Ministry 24
Tai Chi Ministry 24
Christian Formation 26
Children’s Ministries 26
Youth Program 26
Women’s Bible Study 27
Wednesday Morning Bible Study 27
Wednesday Afternoon Bible Study 27
Hospitality Ministries 28
Hospitality 28
Childcare 28
Outreach Ministries 29
Outreach Committee 29
St. Paul’s Pantry 29
Family to Family 30
Safe Sleep 30
Boy Scouts 30
Alcoholics Anonymous 31
Sister Congregation 31
Diocese of Wiawso Seminarians 32
Prayer & Service Ministries 32
St. Paul’s Men’s Group 32
Daughters of the King 33
Stewardship 34
Stewardship 34
2015 ANNUAL MEETING OF ST. PAUL’S, VENTURAJanuary 25, 2015 • 11:30am
I. Meeting Called to Order / Welcome
II. Appointment of Clerk for the Annual Meeting
III. 2014 Annual Meeting Minutes
IV. Rector’s Report
V. Introduction of Church Staff
VI. Introduction of Clergy serving St. Paul’s
VII. Appointment of the Senior Warden
VIII. Introduction of the Vestry a. Elected to serve through 2014 (now retiring from the Vestry)
i. Lori Burke, Lynn Edwards, Marilyn Hass, Roger Mann b. Elected to serve through 2015
i. Nate Alday; Ralph Armstrong; Ruth McCool-Senior Warden, Heidi Trevisan c. Elected to serve through 2016
i. Woody Bretz, Carol Brewer, Rose Hayden-Smith, Pauli Powers
IX. Election Proceduresa. Appointment of Inspector of Election b. Voting Requirements – see ballotc. Requirements to serve on the Vestry – see ballot
X. Electionsa. Vestry
i. Presentation of the Nominating Committee’s Slateii. Nominations from the Floor
iii. Introduction of the Candidatesiv. Voting
b. Diocesan Convention i. Delegates who attended last year – Ralph Armstrong, Ruth McCool, Doug Wied
ii. Nominationsiii. Voting
XI. Appointment of Treasurer for 2015
XII. Financial State of the Parisha. Treasurer’s Report b. 2015 Budgetc. Parish Administrator’s Report
XIII. Election Results
XIV. Closing Prayer and Dismissal
1
THE STRUCTURE OF THE CHURCH
The Anglican Communion is the gathering of Anglican and Episcopal churches from around the world. Today, the Anglican Communion comprises more than 85 million members in 38 self-governing Member Churches or Provinces. The head of the Anglican Communion is the Archbishop of Canterbury, The Most Rev. Justin Welby. Formal mechanisms for meeting include the Lambeth Conference, the Anglican Consultative Council, and the Primates’ Meeting, together known as the Instruments of Communion. As with any family, the Anglican Communion’s members have a range of differing opinions. The Anglican Christian tradition has always valued its diversity, and has been willing to publicly tackle the hard questions of life and faith.
The Episcopal Church is an autonomous member of the Anglican Communion, and is comprised of 110 dioceses in 16 nations. The Most Rev. Dr. Katharine Jefferts Schori, previously Bishop of Nevada, is the 26th Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. She is chief pastor to the Episcopal Church's 2.4 million people, ecumenical officer, and primate, joining leaders of the other 38 Anglican Provinces in consultation for global good and reconciliation. The Episcopal Church is a representative democracy and its polity was devised by many of the same people who wrote the constitution of the United States. The General Convention is the governing body of The Episcopal Church that meets every three years. General Convention, made up of the House of Bishops and the House of Deputies, has ultimate legislative authority. It authored (and continues to amend) the Church’s Constitution, establishes the Book of Common Prayer, sets out rules for the ratification of bishops, and through its canonical actions sets forth governance of the Church. General Convention met in Anaheim, California in July, 2009. The 77th General Convention of the Episcopal Church was held July 5–12, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 2015 General Convention will meet in Salt Lake City, Utah at which time a new Presiding Bishop will be elected.
The Diocese of Los Angeles is comprised of 147 congregations, 40 schools, 20 other specialized service institutions located in six Southern California counties. Los Angeles is historically one of the five most populous and culturally diverse of the Episcopal Churches 110 dioceses overall. The Rt. Rev. J. Jon Bruno serves as Diocesan Bishop. He is assisted by Suffragan Bishops, The Rt. Rev. Diane Jardine Bruce, and The Rt. Rev. Mary Glasspool. Diocesan Convention is held in December each year. Congregations are represented by their clergy and a number of lay delegates determined by their number of communicants in accordance with Diocesan Constitution and Canons.
Deanery I is one of ten geographical areas within the Diocese of Los Angeles. Each of these deaneries includes between 12 and 20 congregations. Each is led by a Dean, a clergy member serving at one of the member churches, and a president, a lay parishioner. The Very Rev. Melissa McCarthy is currently serving as the Dean of Deanery I.
St. Paul’s is the Episcopal Church in Ventura, California. It is a warm and welcoming congregation with wonderful programs and a great sense of hospitality. The governing board of the parish is known as the Vestry which is comprised of 12 elected members and the Rector. At the Annual Parish Meeting, members of the congregation elect representatives to the Vestry and delegates to Diocesan Convention. The rector of St. Paul’s is the Reverend Susan Bek.
2
Saint Paul’s Episcopal ChurchMinutes of the Annual Meeting
January 26, 2014
Present: 89 Adult Members
I. The Reverend Susan Bek opened the meeting at 11:46 a.m. with prayer.
II. Drew Darby was recognized and thanked for his service as Clerk of the Vestry during 2013 and Pam Owens was introduced as Clerk of the Vestry for the coming term.
III. Peter Bowers moved and Roger Myers seconded the motion to accept the minutes of the 2013 annual meeting. The motion was approved unanimously.
IV. Rector’s Report. Reverend Bek presented a slide presentation reviewing the past year at St. Paul’s. Reverend Bek mentioned that an Outreach Committee is to be formed as well as a Fund-
raising Committee. An administrative assistant will be hired. The annual visit by the bishop will take place on April 6, with Bishop Diane Jardine Bruce
in attendance. Beginning February 10, there will be a Monday evening class, “Exploring our Faith”,
which will be open to all interested persons. A handout listing opportunities for ministry was discussed.
V. Parish staff were introduced.
VI. Introduction of Clergy Serving St. Paul’s.
VII. Ruth McCool was appointed as Senior Warden and she introduced the Vestry.
VIII. Introduction of the Vestry. The four retiring members -- David Hill, Suzanne McCombs, Larry Myers (Jr. Warden), and Miles Sexton -- were thanked for serving the congregation with distinction.
IX. Election procedures were reviewed and Doug Wied was appointed the Inspector of Elections.
X. The Nominating Committee’s slate of nominees for new vestry members was presented. There were no nominations from the floor. Dan Wakelee moved and Roger Mann seconded that the slate of nominees be accepted as presented and the motion carried unanimously. Nominations from the floor for delegates and alternates to Diocesan Convention were made. Ruth McCool, Ralph Armstrong and Doug Wied were elected by ballot as Delegates to
3
Diocesan Convention while Kay Armstrong, Marilyn Hass and Muriel Wahl were elected as alternates. The votes were counted by Doug Wied.
XI. David Hill was appointed as Treasurer for 2014.
XII. David Hill, Treasurer, presented his report and Paula Robertson, Parish Administrator, discussed the financial state of the parish.
XIII. Addition to Agenda. Roger Mann introduced the five students who will be making a pilgrimage to Ghana, West Africa this year. The pilgrims will be taking Bibles, mosquito nets, water bottles, school supplies, Band-Aids and Anglican rosaries to provide relief help in the form of an “Outreach Box,” while spreading “the love of Jesus and the fellowship of St. Paul’s Church, Ventura.”
XIV. Canon Edwards requested the group acknowledge Rev. Bek’s one year anniversary as Rector of St. Paul’s, shown by a joyful standing ovation.
XV. The annual meeting ended with a closing prayer at 12:35 p.m. and dismissal blessing by Deacon Ed. The new vestry met immediately after.
Roger Mann was elected Jr. Warden by acclamation of the Vestry. The meeting was adjourned at 12:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,Pam OwensClerk of the Vestry
4
Election of Vestry
Vestry Nominees
The following parishioners standing for election to the Vestry have submitted the biographical information below, along with statements regarding their desire to serve St. Paul’s as a vestry member.
Josephine Barnaby
I have attended St Paul’s for approximately 14 years. My son, Nathaniel, is involved in the St Paul’s sponsored Boy Scout troop and is an acolyte. I am involved in Altar and Flower Guild. I recently joined the Usher Ministry for the 10:15 service. I am honored to be nominated and look forward to working with my fellow Vestry members to serve you.
Bill Crookston
Bill Crookston's career combines over 55 years of selling, sales management and entrepreneurial experience with academic and consulting assignments.
He has owned and managed two manufacturing and marketing businesses and has lectured in Entrepreneurship Studies, Sales Management, Personal Selling, Industrial Marketing and Marketing Management in the California State University system and at USC. He is a Professor Emeritus of Clinical Entrepreneurship in the Entrepreneur Program at the University of Southern California where he taught MBA and undergraduate students. His consulting practice centers around being a CEO Coach to owner/managers, but also includes many sales management and sales training assignments with emergent companies. He is a sought after speaker and trainer with a long list of speaking engagements which deal with sales and marketing issues, business plan writing, motivation of employees and governance of startup firms. He has studied and served on various NFP endeavors.
As President of the Sales and Marketing Executives Association of Los Angeles he has served on the Board of Directors of the International Sales and Marketing Executives Association. He is former President of the Santa Monica Junior Chamber of Commerce and served for ten years on the Santa Monica Personnel Commission. He is past President and Board Member of the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Santa Monica. He is a Certified Marketing Executive and a volunteer board member of several NFP’s; and an Eagle Scout and a First Lieutenant in the Medical Service Corps, US Army Reserve.
Dr. Crookston received his BA in Economics from Stanford University (1957), an MBA in Marketing (1967) and an MS in Business Administration (1974) from USC and a Ph.D. (1990) in Executive Management from Claremont Graduate School.
He is active in church governance having served as Junior Warden and Vestry person at St. Alban’s, Westwood and St. Matthews, Pacific Palisades, where he served as Treasurer for four years. Other Episcopal connections: Jubilee Consortium Board, Canterbury Westwood and USC, Program Group to Higher Education.He is married to Kathleen, they have five grown children in Ventura, LA, Manhattan Beach, and South Carolina and nine grandchildren.
5
Amanda Holden
I have lived in Ventura for 13 years and I love it more and more each day. I have been a member at St. Paul's for a little less than a year. While my time here has been short, I feel as if St. Paul's is my home. I am moved to dedicate my time to our church family and our community. I am very passionate about finding ways to be the church. I believe we have a calling to go into our neighborhoods and bring the love of Jesus to them through our hospitality, communications and programs like Family to Family. I am excited to answer God's call to work.
Blessings, Amanda
Greg Jackson
My name is Greg Jackson. I am originally from Sharon, PA where my family attends St. John’s Episcopal Church. After graduating from Westminster College in New Wilmington, PA in May of 1989, I moved to Ventura and joined St. Paul’s Church.
In 1990, Karyn and I were married here and both of our daughters, Sarah and Gaby, were baptized at St. Paul’s. Last year, Sarah was confirmed, and Gaby is part of the youth group which she loves!
In the early 90s, I had the pleasure of working with Gerald McCool for several years and served as the assistant treasurer and treasurer for the church and school. Although I held the title, I always considered Gerry the treasurer as his shoes were too big to be filled. As a former member of the finance team, I am very familiar with the process and how the Vestry operates.
We are happy to be back as members of St. Paul’s after our family’s return last Christmas. Karyn and I have joined the hospitality team, and I have been attending the men’s breakfast on Fridays. I am grateful for the opportunity to worship with all of you and look forward to the future of St. Paul’s Church. It would be an honor to serve as a Vestry member at St. Paul’s Church.
Faithfully yours,Greg Jackson
6
RECTOR’S REPORT
This past year was filled with joyful celebration as we commemorated the 125th Anniversary of our parish. It all began when a small group of people met in a local home to discuss the possibility of starting an Episcopal church here in Ventura. That was the summer of 1887, 127 years ago. St. Paul’s was established as a mission congregation in December of that year. Their first vicar was called and on January 15, 1888 the first services were held. St. Paul’s, Ventura became a parish and incorporated in 1889. St. Paul’s, Ventura, has been an active and vibrant part of the community ever since. The 125th was recognized with a homecoming celebration on Sunday, September 14, 2014 at which we unveiled our newly refurbished, 115 year old organ. Today, St. Paul’s is made up of 196 families. We are home to two schools, La Famiglia Preschool and the Home School Program of Ventura Charter School of Art and Global Education (VSAGE) which serves children in Kindergarten through 8th grades. They offer many programs, support a number of important causes and engage in numerous ministries. St. Paul’s enjoyed many of our traditions and annual events this year including: The Epiphany Pageant presented by our Drama Ministry with Youth & Children’s Ministries, Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper presented by our Youth Group, St. Patrick’s Day Dinner hosted by our chapter of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Candlelight Labyrinth walk at Dawn on Good Friday, the Independence Day BBQ hosted by the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Blessing of the Backpacks, Blessing of the Animals, Oktoberfest, Advent Wreath- Making hosted by the Loest Family and Altar Guild, and the Parish Christmas Party and Sing-Along. We also added a new Christmas Eve tradition of Luminaries purchased in memoriam, in gratitude or as a prayer offering. All the paths leading to the church were lined with light.
This year we added a few new events including: Holy Things for Holy People – a Lenten retreat hosted by the Altar and Flower Guilds, Experiential Stations of the Cross, A Country Hoe Down, Walking the Way Spirit Festival hosted by the Stewardship Committee, and Christmas Caroling Outreach and many of our members participated in a community theater production of Pirates of Penzance. After months of planning, coordinating and fundraising, we sent a group of 6 of our High School Youth along with three of their adult leaders on a pilgrimage to Ghana, Africa. The journey was led by the Rev. Canon Doug Edwards. We were very pleased to welcome the Right Reverend Diane Jardine Bruce who came for our annual bishop’s visit and confirmed 4 people, reaffirmed 2 and received 1 into the church. A lovely lunch reception was hosted by the Hospitality Ministry. Yes, the mission and ministry of St. Paul’s continues and our future looks bright. We strive to honor all of the people, dates, times, places, celebrations, relationships, tragedies, services and prayers that make up the fabric of this church as we remember that St. Paul’s is not a building, it’s a community; a community of people who continue to follow Jesus, nurture ministries and welcome all. My thanks to all of you for making St. Paul’s the great place that it is. Thank you for your faithfulness, your prayers, your participation, your dedication, and your support. It is a great honor and privilege to be with you on this wonderful journey. May God continue to bless the people, mission and ministry of this parish. Respectfully submitted, The Rev. Susan Bek
7
Deacon MattersThe Rev. Ed Steever
January 25, 2015
This annual report to dear Saint Paul’s by the deacon should not be boring.So I write this work in doggerel unless you’d all be snoring.Ten years ago I came to serve and have had no regret.I’m blessed to know you more and more. (Though some names I still forget.)I’ve served most Sundays this last year, the services one hundred three,And six Sundays did I preach to you; how lucky can I be?Acolytes and ushers have been working hard this year,The Eucharistic ministers and lectors keep good cheer.Sonya, Ralph and Lori do their best to schedule all.I can’t believe the work they do so our service doesn’t stall.
In closing I would be remiss not to let you knowThat weekdays I teach high–school kids; to Moorpark I do go.It is a ministry that I do find fulfilling to the core,To lead those kids to think and feel and want to learn some more.But this will be my last year of fighting ignorance,I will retire and find some new pursuit or dalliance.I thank you all for making me so welcome from your hearts.I hope to serve you well next year, performing all my parts.
8
SENIOR WARDEN’S REPORTRuth McCool
Looking back over this past year I see St. Pauls as a vibrant, exciting place with many ministries and activities through which we try to follow God’s plan for our parish. There have been times of great joy and some difficult times, each handled with prayer and devotion. I am so pleased to see the spiritual growth and the enthusiasm of our members – longtime members and new folk – as we move forward into a new year.
Your vestry is tasked with gathering together all of the ideas and information offered to us by parishioners and our clergy, along with the bills to pay, and offerings received, and molding that information into a workable plan for the year. We begin by meeting together at a vestry retreat early in the year at a place away from the church. This gives us an opportunity to get to know each other better in an informal gathering and to talk about where each of us can best use our gifts and talents to enrich the work set before us. There is time set aside for reflection, prayer, communion, business, laughter, meals, rest and relaxation .During the year the vestry meets once a month for a formal meeting which includes reports from all of the committees, information about problems which appear, discussions of new ideas presented, and reports from the wardens and from our priest.
We have had some difficult times this year and some exciting times. Because of the age of our facilities we do have problems which stretch our budget out of shape. We have instituted a Reserve Study which lists all of the areas and items on the property which need maintenance and an approximate “life time” of each item. This report will help us to prioritize the many maintenance items our committee manages. On the up side, we have been given a magnificent grand piano in memory of, and in thanksgiving for, the life of Christine Wied. What a wonderful addition to our sanctuary! Along with that special gift, we have had our organ refurbished and its sound is greatly improved. What joyful additions to our worship services!
Some of the accomplishments and activities this year included a lovely garden growing vegetables and flowers by the Gooden Center, increased digital communication, Vacation Bible School, our youth’s Pilgrimage to Ghana, St. Patrick’s Day dinner, Octoberfest, a Hoe Down, 4th of July Picnic, and a Homecoming service to bring together our wide-spread family to honor those who have served in the school and church over the years.
It is a great honor and pleasure to work with Susan, she leads us with joy and the Spirit’s power. Many thanks to our assisting clergy Ed, Doug, Dick and Anthony for giving of their time and gifts. Special thanks to Paula who keeps us all in line.
In closing I want to thank each member of the Vestry for faithfully coming to meetings, assisting where ever and whenever they could, and for helping to guide our church family into this new year. Thank you Nate Alday, Ralph Armstrong, Woody Bretz, Carol Brewer, Lori Burke, Lynn Edwards, Marilyn Hass, Rose Hayden-Smith, Roger Mann, Heidi Trevisan and Joanne Wakelee.
JUNIOR WARDEN’S REPORTRoger Mann
It has been my privilege to serve as the people’s warden for the past year. I have had the honor of meeting and getting to know a lot more of our little church family and I am continually amazed at the number of truly gifted, generous and talented people that surround us and worship with us.
I am grateful to the Vestry for its support and for the courage it has shown in dealing with some sensitive administrative matters, tight budgetary restrictions and the challenges to be good stewards of the gifts the Lord has entrusted to us.
9
TREASURER’S REPORTDavid Hill
You, the members of this congregation, have encouraged me, members of the Vestry, as well as Church staff through your generous financial donations and commitment. As the Treasurer, I chair the Financial Committee on a monthly basis, prepare the monthly Treasurer’s Report which is submitted to the Vestry for approval, ensure that the annual audit is done, and prepare the budget for the next year.
We have ended the year with net ordinary income of negative $690. Which means that looking at the financial picture in its entirety, our income matched our expenses. Income received was greater than projected due to receiving larger Giver of Record and Plate Offerings donations than expected. This was offset by a loss rental income from a vacancy created when Little Tree Preschool moved to another property. We also posted the 2015 pledges of $20,500 received in 2014 to the 2014 income statement which is the standard for cash basis accounting. The financial summary for 2014 as well as the previous year is shown below.
A summary of the 2015 approved budget is shown in the table below.
Projected income is less than 2014 due to a decrease in Pledge commitments and loss of one tenant. The Little Tree Preschool moved in August to a property they purchased. We are actively looking for additional tenants to lease our space. Expenses are also projected to be less than 2014 actuals, primarily due to the Communications Director and Youth Director positions being eliminated. An important component to the 2015 budget is fundraising. We project a net fundraising income of $17,000 to assist in meeting expenses. In addition, funds may be drawn from the Seminarian Scholarship Account to offset the contribution to Bloy House ($1000) as well as miscellaneous program expenses. The rental reserve account may be tapped if additional tenants are not found in a timely manner and the Alfriend Memorial Sunday School Fund will be used to purchase curriculum for Sunday School.
Mission Outreach5300 Diocesan Pledge 47,423 5305 Theological Ed./Bloy House 1,000 5310 Project Understanding 1,800 5315 Family to Family 1,800 5318 Abundant Table 1,000 5326 Wiawso Sister Congregation 1,200 5330 Deanery One Dues 330
Total Mission Outreach Expenses 54,553
Program Expenses5415 Altar Supplies 845 5425 Hospitality 600 5430 Misc Program Expenses 2,000 5440 Music & Choir Supplies 870 5450 Organ Maintenance & Repair 2,000 5460 Piano Maintenance 1,150 5465 Stewardship 500 5470 Sunday School 6,300 5473 Youth Group 500 5475 Fundraising Expense 6,800
Total Program Expenses 21,565
Total Operating Expenses 408,001
Net Income (12,811
)
Offsets:Rental Reserve 3,011 Seminar. Scholar: Misc Prog, Sunday School, Youth 7,300 Alfriend Mem. Sunday School Fund: SS Curriculum 1,500 Seminar. Scholar: Bloy House 1,000
0
14
15
16
17
FinanceFundraising Committee Roger Mann, Chair
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. In 2014 we embarked on a new ministry at St. Paul’s. In light of the economic challenges that face the church today, we thought that it would be prudent to begin a group whose sole purpose was to concentrate on raising money to supplement the budgetary needs of St. Paul’s. It is our intent to help meet the needs of the church as it exists today, but also to begin building toward the future.
We began this project with four hearty souls who have a passion for this special undertaking. Along the way, one of our number drifted away, but the rest have remained steadfast. They are Drew Darby, Lori Burke and myself. In 2014, we raised over $10,000.
What is your vision for 2015? In 2015, the Fundraising committee has a more ambitious calendar of events in the works which include social teas, Mystery Dinner Theater, Art Walks, Dinner dances, Open Air concert, organ and/or piano recitals, Oktoberfest, Hoedown, Holiday Boutique and Bake sale and the St. Paul’s bookstore, to mention a few. We are looking for more folks with fresh ideas and enthusiasm to join us in this critical ministry. We are looking for folks to help on the entertainment crew, on the food crew, the holiday boutique crew, the music crew and much more. We need folks to help us get the bookstore up and running. If you’re interested in finding out more, ask one of us.The goal for the Fundraising group for 2015 is $17,000, so you can see that we could really use your help.
Counters & Contribution StewardsLynn Edwards
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. Counters and Contribution Stewards, subsets of the Finance Committee, are volunteers who work under the direction of the Treasurer and Parish Administrator to count and record income. Counters work in teams of two to count and note the Sunday donations. Thank you to Louise Bretz, Drew Darby, RoseAnn Hill, Doris Weinert, Katie Weldon, Rod Weldon, Dave Whaley, and Doug Wied, and substitute Pam Owens, for your faithful service and conscientious attention to detail. Contribution Stewards verify the Sunday count, count all income that comes to the parish, post the income to our financial records, take the deposits to the bank, write thank-you notes to donors, maintain files and records for use by the parish and auditor, and evaluate parish financial practices in accordance with IRS, Episcopal Church, diocesan, and parish guidelines. We assist the Treasurer, Parish Administrator, Finance Committee, and Stewardship Committee. Pam Owens, Cathy Sexton, and I serve as Contribution Stewards. Thank you to all who make financial donations to the parish. We like to keep busy! Please note on the memo line if your check is for anything other than your pledge. If you use an envelope in the pew, please write your intention on the memo line, and there is no such thing as too much information.
What is your vision for 2015? In 2015 we hope to be accurate in our postings and to easily incorporate donations via the parish website in our financial records. We are happy to answer questions.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? We're good, but we are not mind readers, so please give us notes about how you want your donation to be credited.
18
Buildings & Grounds
Building & Grounds CommitteeShirley Myers, Secretary
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. The B&G Committee met monthly and had one ad hoc meeting this past year. Committee members are: Jim Kneeland; Sexton, Greg McCombs; Chair, Roger Mann; Junior Warden, Woody Bretz; Vestry Representative, Paula Robertson, Parish Administrator, Larry Myers, Shirley Myers; Secretary and Art Wahl.
A summary of some of the issues addressed by this committee follows:
A new railing was installed on stairway in Kahler Hall Fruit trees on San Pablo Street were pruned Light Standard in parking lot was repaired & photo cell relocated Garbage disposal in San Pablo rental replaced & sliding glass door lock replaced Exit lights in Sanctuary were replaced Benches in preschool play yard were sanded and repainted All benches (permanent & movable) on campus were sanded and re-varnished A sump pump was purchased to be used for emergency flooding issues Boy’s bathroom outside Youth Center had flooring repairs and waterproofing of subgrade on
building’s exterior outside the restroom GFI outlets were placed in San Pablo rental Drainage lines on upper patio were examined by camera. Lines required excavation, removal of root
ball and replacement with new pipe Pre-school bathrooms had flooring replaced, and toilets repaired and/ or replaced Missing roof shingles on Gooden Center were replaced Interior walls of pre-school rooms were repainted A faulty pressure valve was replaced on water line Melaleuca trees on upper patio were pruned M&M’s worked with pre-school staff & parents to remove soil from outside classrooms. School
placed playground approved mulch in area Plans are being drawn to re-do planter area on West side of Kahler Hall. Some plants have been
removed or relocated Stairs leading to Administration building were repaired and repainted Kahler Hall kitchen door was repaired –had not been closing completely
The committee arranged for a “Full” Reserve Study of the entire campus which has given insight for current and future reserve allocations and allowed for prioritization of on-going maintenance. At this time, funds are not available to add to the reserves.
The committee used this study to forecast projects for 2015 for a total of $11,000 for top priority items and an additional $18,600 for secondary items. The B&G team will continue its work in seeking cost-effective bids, selecting quality contractors, making recommendations to Finance Committee, and working within the budget while maintaining, repairing and enhancing the 6 buildings, sanctuary, hall and grounds.
What is your vision for 2015?Projects under consideration for the 1st quarter are security fencing at parking lot entrance of the campus, replacement of Gooden Center fencing, painting of wrought iron throughout the campus, and replacement of gutters and downspouts. [And as of January replacement of the water heater in the rental house ($900) and a new furnace for Kahler Hall ($3900)].
Congregational Garden19
Rose Hayden-Smith, Chair
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. During the Lent season of 2014, a congregational garden formed in the gated area of the Gooden Center (previously the Sunday School garden site). The focus is on vegetable production. Donations were secured to undertake the work. The Pilgrims and their families, along with gardeners, cleared the space. Boy Scout Troop 179 volunteered time to clean out the garden shed, improve the tree well, and pull weeds. The soil was amended, and raised beds were constructed. There are currently five raised beds. Some in-ground planting was done. The result? Corn as high as an elephant’s eye…and higher than the building eaves! We were able to share produce with other members of the congregation, including taking tomatoes and herbs on pastoral care visits. We have discovered – and found great joy – in the talents of one another: Felix and Woody are our construction experts; Felix is also our irrigation specialist; Tara has a highly aesthetic sense and documents our work for posterity with photographs; Nathaniel brings a sense of vitality and wonder to all of us; Jo is dedicated and consistent (the best kind of gardener!); Lori helps us procure things we need and provides encouragement; Annie is a professionally trained agronomist; and Rose advocates for the ability of mulch to improve the world. The experience has brought us great joy.
Congregational gardeners are Nathaniel Barnaby, Josephine Barnaby, Annie Reynolds, Tara Eisenhauer, Felix Eisenhauer, Woody Bretz, Lori Burke and Rose Hayden-Smith.
What is your vision for 2015? We hope to expand our food production capacity to be able to provide some food items for Family to Family. We’ll be having a winter workday in the next few weeks. We envision some improvements on the east side of the garden that will enhance the area for use as a place for reflection. Some additional growing projects - including vertical gardening - will be undertaken. Some members of the group plan to expand the work into larger food justice themes, with the notion of hosting some talks at the church, and developing stronger links with the Diocesan Seeds of Hope initiative. (We welcome the talents of Kay Armstrong into this aspect of our expanding ministry). We will be discussing whether we can share some space with neighborhood members who are interested in gardening, and what that kind of partnership might require. We are deeply appreciative that the proposed budget includes some funding for this frugal and handy group. Thank you!
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? Help us grow it. If you would like to garden, please contact Rose Hayden-Smith.
Emergency PreparednessWoody Bretz, Chair
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. The Emergency Preparedness Committee is in the process of reviewing the existing emergency and disaster procedures.
What is your vision for 2015? The procedures need to be revised this year.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? The committee is seeking members. Please contact Woody Bretz if you have interest.
20
Worship
8am Sunday ServiceWe continue to offer a traditional, Rite I Holy Eucharist with music every Sunday at 8am. The service is led by the Rector and our deacon, The Rev. Ed Steever with assistance from our Lectors, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Ushers, Altar Guild, our 8am Acolytes (Jo Ellen Heil and Heather Cruser), and supporting clergy. Attendance ranges between 25-40 people.
10:15am Sunday ServiceThe main worship service each Sunday begins at 10:15am. It is a Rite II service with music and choir. The service is led by the Rector and our deacon with assistance from our Lectors, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Ushers, Altar Guild, Acolytes and supporting clergy. Attendance ranges between 90-125 people.
Weekday Eucharist and Healing ServiceEach Wednesday morning we offer Holy Eucharist with prayers for healing and the laying on of hands. The service is led by the Rector, Jo Ellen Heil and Ruth McCool. The service includes a Litany for Healing, the opportunity to ask for prayer as well as the offering of prayer on behalf of one another and the wider community. We offer prayers of thanksgiving and we lift those who suffer in mind, body and spirit. The service is attended by 8-15 people.
Worship CommitteeRuth McCool
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. This Worship committee meets to discuss and prepare for worship services. They meet every other month on the third Wednesday of the month. Representatives of the Clergy, Alter Guild, Choir, Ushers, Lectors, Lay Eucharistic Ministers and Vestry make up the membership. Evaluation of each season’s services, new ideas to enrich our services and logistics are discussed. Current members of this committee are The Rev. Susan Bek, The Rev. Ed Steever, Ralph Armstrong, Carol Brewer, Sara Edwards, David Hill, RoseAnn Hill, Ruth McCool, Roger Mann, and Katie Weldon.
What is your vision for 2015? Our vision is to enhance the opportunities for worship that we may encourage and strengthen our congregation as we gather to seek a deeper relationship with our God and each other.
Eucharistic Prayer MinistryRuth McCool
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. Our Ministry was designed to offer those attending the 10:15 am service an opportunity to share prayer concerns for themselves or others with one of our prayer ministers during the time of the distribution of communion. The ministers are trained to pray for others and they work under the rule of complete confidentiality. Our hope is that we can assist by strengthening one another and easing the burdens of any who come to us for prayer. Our team of prayer ministers includes Charles and Marjorie Cole, Ruth McCool, Gonnie Stouthamer and Rod Weldon.
21
What is your vision for 2015? As our group is small we serve once or twice a month. We would like to increase the number of prayer ministers in the coming year.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? If you or someone you know is interested in this ministry, please contact Ruth McCool or the Rev. Susan Bek for more information.
AcolytesSonya Griffith
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. The acolytes assist in the 10:15 AM worship services every Sunday. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our current roster of acolytes: Daniel Griffith, Kaler Jackson, William Alday, Andrew McCombs, Ryan McCombs, Robert Rose, Caitlin Sexton, Nathaniel Barnaby, D’Andre Washington, Gaby Jackson, Gabe Lamola and Richard Robertson We would like to extend a special thanks to Richard who has been serving at St Paul’s for many years, and who will be graduating this spring! We are always looking for more youth who would like to help out. Anyone who is in the 6th to 12th grade is welcome. If you are interested in finding out more information, please feel free to contact me, Sonya Griffith at 386-2301 or my email, [email protected].
What is your vision for 2015? We would like to increase the number youth involved in the acolyte program
Music MinistrySara E. F. Edwards, Music Director/Organist
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. Plan/prepare/perform/direct music for 2 weekly services plus extra services in Holy Week, St Francis Blessing of the Animals, and Christmas Services and caroling. A gift for brass ensemble enhanced our Easter morning service, and relationship with choir members from choirs outside St Paul's resulted in additional singers to fill the choir ranks for the extra-special services of Homecoming, and Christmas Eve. Brought in highly skilled organ technician to perform the organ refurbishment for which the church members had worked very hard to raise the money. An organ professor said, "We got our money's worth." Exciting addition of a 7' performance-quality new piano for the sanctuary through a memorial donation. Planned for dedicatory recital to become an annual pre-Lenten event, open to musicians within St Paul's and the Ventura community.
What is your vision for 2015? Continue to form and maintain relationships with musicians and in churches in the Ventura community; focus on building a core of singers and instrumental musicians within St Paul's community. See our sanctuary become more and more of a place of enriching and uplifting music, arts, and theatre events. Uphold and strategize ways to keep the continuing work on the organ's tonal enhancement of priority--i.e., money for a solo oboe rank. Music for the Liturgy: continuing to research and build repertoire to meet the worshiping needs of St Paul's congregation and the vision of the rector.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? A solid core of choir members and of instrumentalists is needed. If you feel called to this ministry, your talents and participation would be welcomed!
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. We began to meet monthly to discuss the goals and activities of the music department at St. Paul's and how to progress the department and increase involvement in this ministry.
What is your vision for 2015? To gain more insight into what is working and what could be enhanced in regards to music ministry. To better fulfill and minister musically. To build and progress the music by trying new things and getting people involved.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? If the music department had funding to hire professionals to fill in the gaps until the program is built up, then we may be able to attract more musicians in the congregation and in the community to build the program. Plus, the music would be enhanced for the spiritual ministry of the service.
St. Mary's Altar Guild Carol Brewer, Director
The work of the Altar Guild includes preparing for two services each Sunday of the year for one service each Wednesday and for the occasional weddings, funerals, memorial services, baptisms and special happenings. A group of volunteer members set up for all these services and also care for the linens, vestments, and holy things with reverence and dedication.
The Floral Arts Guild, an auxiliary of the Altar Guild, prepares three flower arrangements for every Sunday except during Lent and for memorials and special events.
This year the guild was honored to host a Lenten Retreat Day on March 29. Rev. Susan and members presented an explanation of the history and work done by the guild and a demonstration and “backstage” tour. Floral Arts members showed arrangements and each participant had the opportunity to make and take a small arrangement. The day ended with Holy Eucharist in the Church followed by a salad luncheon.
Work schedule for the Altar Guild was reorganized this year into a three week rotation due to the loss of a few members. We welcome interested parishioners to come on any Saturday morning to watch and see if this may indeed be the ministry for you! New members are much needed and always welcome.
Members of our team are Peter Bowers, Gigi Denniston, Lori Burke, Pauli Powers, Heather Cruser, Carol Brewer, Rose Hayden-Smith, Jo Ellen Heil, Roger Mann, Maggie Kennedy, Kay & Ralph Armstrong, John Borneman, Lee Molesworth, RoseAnn Hill, roger Crow, Janet Koehn, Amanda Holden, Ernie Fickerson, Drew Darby, Tara Eisenhauer, Katie & Rod Weldon, David Whaley, Carolyn Dolen and Woody Bretz.
Many thanks to Art & Muriel Wahl who served faithfully and recently moved to Orange County.
23
UshersDeacon Ed Steever, Lori Burke
Members of our team are Lynn Edwards, Jim & Dela Parker, Peter Bowers, Sally Weimer, Jay & Patti Widdows, Sheila Fattarelli, Carl Helms, Lou & Jim Matthews, Roger Myers, Lori Burke, Bev Brown, June Kaler, Maggie Kennedy, Jeff Brown, Shirley & Larry Myers, Woody Bretz, Steve Jones, Dan Wakelee, Tamara Nerdrum, Katie Weldon, and Elizabeth Rose.
Many thanks to Michael Watling for years of service. Welcome to newcomers to the team Dick Goodman, Woody Bretz and Josephine Barnaby.
Pastoral Care Ruth McCool
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved.The Pastoral Care Ministry is a group who assist Rev. Susan Bek in caring for our church family. We meet once a month and go over a list, prepared by Susan and our members, of those in need of prayer, notes, phone calls, house calls or home communion. Our mission is to keep in touch with those who are home-bound for a short or long time, encourage those who are enduring a difficult time, rejoice with those who are healing and make contact with those who have been missing for a while. Our members are Lillian Alfriend, Connie Baer, Kathleen Crookston, Marjorie Cole, Rose Hayden-Smith, Ruth McCool, Pam Owens, Dela Parker, Liz Rose and Gonnie Stouthamer.
What is your vision for 2015? We would like to expand our resources by gathering together some folk who would be available to give rides to those in need and others who might like to prepare food when needed.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? If you have someone to add to our list please give the information to Paula, Rev. Susan or one of the members. If you want to be a driver or prepare food please notify Paula, Susan or one of the members. Your help will be greatly appreciated!
Tai Chi – Health & Wellness MinistryKatherine Steever
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. March marks the third anniversary of the beginning tai chi class, and February is the second anniversary for the intermediate class. The beginning class continues to grow with several members of our very first class still attending, deepening their tai chi practice and assisting the new members in learning the movements. Class members are continually stepping forward to report how the tai chi has improved their health.
What is your vision for 2015? The need for beginning Tai Chi for Health Classes, especially for Venture’s growing senior community, is great. Through word of mouth and advertising in The Star’s Community Briefs, my vision is to see Kahler Hall filled at each class!
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? The congregation can assist with promotion by speaking about the class with friends and neighbors at every opportunity.
24
Communications & Social Media
Communications CommitteeRose Hayden-Smith
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved.We re-launched our communications committee in the second half of the year. Our first success was outreach to the Ventura County Star, which resulted in print and online coverage of our 125th anniversary (and our organ). The communication team’s focus plays to our professional strengths and personal interests in social technology. Our new communications emphasis is on “Digital Discipleship” and “E-vangelism.”
St. Paul’s has a Facebook group (mostly comprised of Parish members), and a Facebook page (which is visited by both members and the general public). The team was able to formulate an editorial calendar for the Advent season that featured daily posts and engaged the community. Members of our committee continue to post content on both Facebook sites several times a week, including a weekly calendar of events, information about ministries, etc. Among the most popular social media posts in the last several months have been those about the Little Library, the garden, and the Advent meditation series. The images from the Christmas cards were also very popular. You’ll see members of our team at services using our cell phones to take photos, make postings on Facebook, and to Tweet using the hashtag #stpaulsventura.
Members of our team are Tara Eisenhauer, Drew Darby, Amanda Holden, Paula Robertson, Rev. Susan Bek, John Bek, Miles Sexton and Rose Hayden-Smith…and perhaps you?
What is your vision for 2015? To share the light of Christ and the unique ways our parish meets the world with love with our community. We are grounding our work in digital discipleship using best professional practices, and a growing body of spiritual scholarship relating to the use of social technologies in church ministry. We hope to continue to expand our work in digital discipleship, which we believe makes us more accessible and known to the community, and which also strengthens ties among members of our parish. We will also be working with Paula and Rev. Susan on ways to improve and facilitate communication within the parish (i.e., providing input about various technologies and web-based systems, including Realm).
Needs that the congregation should be aware of?If you’re on Facebook, please join our St. Paul’s group, and like the church’s page. If you see a post that resonates with you, please share it on your wall. If you like to write press releases, please consider giving us a hand. If you’re leading a ministry that has information you’d like to share, please let us know and we’ll post content for you, including photos, announcements, etc. We appreciate the congregation’s understanding that the respectful use of our phones during services and events is our way of being evangelists and sharing the good news. Our next meeting is Sunday, February 8th at Noon in the Library.
25
Christian Formation
Sunday School – Kindergarten-5th GradeHeidi Trevisan, Director
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved.I'm pleased to report that the 2014 St. Paul's Sunday School program was a strong, cohesive group of youth and teachers with a strong curriculum and lots of fun activities. The Sunday School teachers and chapel leaders were Heidi Trevisan (director), Bridget Nahabedian, Jen Crittendon, and Jon Bek. We used CELEBRATING THE GOOD NEWS as our chapel curriculum, and WEAVING GOD'S PROMISES as our Sunday School curriculum. The chapel service includes a weekly gospel lesson (lectionary based), prayer circle and sharing time, and activities to support the gospel lesson. The Sunday School portion of our program takes place after Communion, and includes biblical storytelling, and a craft activity or game that further explores the bible story. During the summer, we offered a VBS called Weird Animals that the children and adult volunteers thoroughly enjoyed. It was a 5-week Summer Camp that took place each Sunday from 10am-12pm. We sang a lot, played a lot, and offered interactive bible story experiences. Throughout Advent, we prepared for and then presented our Christmas Story slideshow at the Dec. 24th Family Service.
What is your vision for 2015? Now that our children are getting older and familiar with our worship and Sunday School lessons, I would like to give them more ownership of their Sunday School program. They will be more engaged and excited about coming each week if they collaboratively help with the teaching and sharing. I would like to use audio/visual equipment to share music videos, and bible stories from the Internet with them. We will do another VBS and the Christmas program, and hope to do some field trips with the Sunday School families. I would also like to do twice annual community service projects.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? I would like to have one or two additional members on our teaching team. They would be asked to teach once a month.
Youth Group – 6th-12th GradesRoger Mann
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. 2014 was a big year for our youth group, in June we embarked on a pilgrimage to Ghana, West Africa. However the journey began 10 months beforehand, as we planned, prepared, studied, prayed and work hard to make the trip come to fruition. As with the other two pilgrimages; Greece in 2009 and Scotland in 2006, the experiences were life changing. As we recently represented at the reception for parish, we enjoyed some varied and unusual foods, we met some amazing, loving, giving people and we saw some awe inspiring sights, all the while walking in the steps that God had lovingly prepared for us. It was the help, love and support that we received from our parish family that gave us this amazing gift and we are humbly thankful for your generosity.
This year we were also blessed with several new students, who “graduated” from the Sunday school program and came to the youth group. Which allowed us the opportunity to become two separate classes, one for the high school aged youth and another for the middle school aged youth.
What is your vision for 2015? We are looking forward to a very busy 2015, with two retreats and a camping trip on the calendar as well as a series of movie nights and at least one “fun” trip every month. I hear we might be digging up dinosaur bones, but that could just be a rumor.
26
Women’s Friday Morning Bible Study GroupSuzanne McCombs, Facilitator
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. The Friday morning Women's Bible Study group completed three group studies this year. We started with a study of Paul's life by Beth Moore, To Live Is Christ. We then studied the life of John, as presented by Beth Moore in The Beloved Disciple. We also read Boundaries, When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of your Life by Henry Cloud and John Townsend, a biblical based study of boundaries and why they are important. The group includes members of St. Paul’s, young (in their 30's) and experienced (those over 80), as well as other Christian women from the local Ventura community. We typically have 10-16 women in each study and average 8-10 in attendance each week. Members are welcome to join us at any time. We also have several women that "follow along" reading the book selected that are unable to attend and we welcome participation in that way as well.
What is your vision for 2015? We plan to begin our studies in 2015 with Women of the Bible, Their Words and Why They Matter by Lindsay Hardin Freeman, an Episcopal priest. We would love to have you join us.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? If there are others that would like to join our bible study but need either child care or a different time to meet, please let us know and we will try to facilitate an additional group.
Wednesday Morning Bible StudyThe Reverend Susan Bek
A dedicated group of 10-12 people meet each Wednesday morning at 10:30am for Bible Study in the Library with Rev. Susan. This year we have been studying the lessons for the coming Sunday worship service. We also discuss current events and topics of interest to the members. The topic and format change as needed to best meet the needs of the people who attend. During Advent we used a guide called A Thrill of Hope which combined passages from the Gospel of Luke with the beautiful artwork of John August Swanson and commentary from the members of the faculty at Candler School of Theology. All are welcome to join this delightful group of people who meet regularly to discuss scripture and seek a deeper relationship with Christ and one another.
Wednesday 4:30PM Bible StudyRoger Mann
We are currently studying Ephesians and using a book of the same name written by Max Lucado. All are welcome. Meet us in the Library every Wednesday afternoon.
27
Hospitality Ministries
HospitalityWoody Bretz, Chair
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved.The Hospitality Committee went through several iterations trying to come upon a better way to share the coffee hour duties for the 10:15 service. The earlier service is supported by Carol & Bill Brewer, Dela & Jim Parker, Gigi Denniston, Euncie Koch, Marilyn Hass to name a few. The current plan for the 10:15 service is for 8 teams of 3 families to alternate weeks. Current team members are Shirley & Larry Myers, Miles & Cathy Sexton, Marjorie & Chuck Cole, Louise & Woody Bretz, Nate & Anne Alday, Judy & Bruce Kelly, Sonya Griffith, Elizabeth Rose, Karyn & Greg Jackson, Amanda Holden, Doris Weinert and Gonnie Stouthamer.
The Hearts for Hospitality Ministry was formed in support of the Hospitality Committee. The ministry is a place of peace, sharing and worship for those with a “Heart for Hospitality” and is seeking new participants.
What is your vision for 2015? Continue with the new team approach and add new members throughout the year.
ChildcareHeidi Trevisan
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved.Wendy Olivier has been providing exemplary care for the young children in our parish and visitors each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. We average one or two toddlers or preschoolers each week. Wendy reads them a preschool Bible Story each week (usually something that coincides with the Sunday School bible story), and they're presented with an arts and crafts project or a game to play.
What is your vision for 2015? I hope to see more young children at St. Paul's in 2015. We have a great nursery program, so tell your friends.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? I would love to have a list of substitute nursery caregivers that could work in the nursery on the rare weeks that Wendy is unavailable. Please let Heidi know if you're interested.
28
Outreach Ministries
Mission Outreach CommitteeJoanne Wakelee, Chair
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. The Mission/Outreach Committee is an umbrella committee for various ministries of the church. Marilyn Hass kept the food pantry here at the church well supplied as an outreach to those needing immediate help. Roger Mann faithfully organized the Family-to-Family lunches provided to the homeless once a month at Catholic Charities. (Volunteers are always welcome!) Roger also kept us updated on the Ghana Pilgrimage preparations. Dan and Joanne Wakelee organized CROP Walk (hunger walk), which was held in October in Ventura; several of our members walked together. RoseAnn Hill kept us updated on the outreach of Project Understanding and kept us informed as they moved from the Vince Street site to Thompson Blvd. She invited the director to attend one of our meetings to give us an overview of the ministries of Project Understanding. Joanne Wakelee and the Rev. Susan Bek organized a holiday gift basket for the Project Understanding fundraising dinner. Joanne Wakelee and Marilyn Hass worked with ACTION on the Christmas Shoppe, which was held Dec.13 at Orchard Community Church. Thank you to all for the wonderful gift donations to needy children in our community. Marilyn Hass and Ralph Armstrong have worked on the new Step-Up ministry for homeless pre-school children. This is a new non-profit to help homeless preschoolers have a preschool experience with wrap-around services. We have re-connected with the Abundant Table and several members have signed up for CSA boxes again. Our church hosts a Safe Sleep Program through the City of Ventura. We are one of two churches offering this outreach to homeless people in our community. Ralph Armstrong has attended meetings regarding transitional housing in Oxnard to keep in touch with the City Center. No decisions on continued financial support have been made. Joanne Wakelee, Rose Hayden-Smith, and Marilyn Hass attended a rally in support of immigrant children fleeing Central America during the summer. We had the opportunity to hear Bishop Bruno speak along with many pastors and community leaders from Ventura and Los Angeles. As you can see we have an active parish.
What is your vision for 2015? Our vision is to continue to follow God's calling in our community and around the world.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? The Mission/Outreach Committee always needs more volunteers to organize and lead various events and ministries.
St. Paul’s PantryPaula Robertson
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. Our pantry continues to serve 6-15 guests each week. We have a reputation for providing great sandwiches, a delicious sack of food and clean socks with the respect deserving for each person. Special thanks to our sandwich maker, Bill Brewer, who creates sandwich combinations that stay flavorful when frozen. Marilyn Hass and Maggie Kennedy do the shopping when the pantry is low and Maggie makes up the bags on a weekly basis.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? St. Paul’s received a monetary donation from the Boy Scout Troop when the pantry was rebuilt a couple of years ago. We have focused on using those funds to supplement the donations received from the congregation this year. Now that the monies are spent we will be relying on your always generous donations. Announcements for needed supplies will once again be placed in the weekly service bulletin.
29
Family to FamilyRoger Mann
After nearly thirty years of service, Family to Family is going strong. In 2014, 47900 meals were served at the dining room on the Avenue. Throughout the years, this valued ministry has simply provided a hot meal, 5 days a week to anyone who is hungry, no questions asked. In providing this service, Family to Family has become an advocate for the rights of the hungry and homeless in Ventura and as such, has come under fire from the City Council, Catholic Charities and the West Side Development group. But through all this, as a group we carry on.
St. Paul’s offers lunch on the third Monday of every month, we are blessed with a variety of volunteers, who work dutifully and joyfully to prepare an excellent meal every month, nothing fancy, just good wholesome food. Some of our volunteers help every month, some help when their schedules allow, some help when they are out of school and we can always use more help, if you are interested in this outreach. In no particular order, this is a list of our voluteers Larry Myers, Shirley Myers, Art Wahl, Marilyn Hass, Gloria Burke, Ralph Armstrong, Kay Armstrong, Woody Bretz, Jim Parker, Gonnie Stouthamer, Delores Powell, Heather Cruser, Dan Wakelee, Joanne Wakelee, Anne Alday, Doug Wied, Ernie Fickerson, Pennie Mann, Cathy Prince, Mary Lee Ings, Bev Brown, John Bourneman, Linda O’Neill, Carol Wright, Alix Walker and Rev. Susan Bek. We have also been blessed with the help of many youth, when school schedules permit, Noelle Mann, Ben Mann, Dixon Mann, Caitlin Sexton, Will Alday, Emma Wright, Dan Griffith, Ana Barnaby, Izzy Harrick, and Clay Harrick. Every December we are further blessed with two of Santa’s helpers who give out sets of toiletries and socks, donated by all of you, Marjorie Cole and Chuck Cole. If I have forgotten your name on this list please forgive me.
We are also blessed with many folks who support us financially throughout the year, so that we can continue to provide hot, good food for our guests. Some donate loose change, some donate hundreds of dollars and God enables us to convert those offerings into the food that we provide.In the new year, we are also going to be using some of the surplus from St. Paul’s community garden to supplement the fresh vegetables that we prepare.
God always provides.
Safe Sleep/Salvation ArmyPaula Robertson
We continue to offer our parking lot as a safe haven for participants in the Salvation Army Safe Sleep program. This was the 5th year of hosting the vehicles. We are one of only two locations in Ventura. The Salvation Army screens the individuals and registration and insurance must be up-to-date. We have hosted about 20 vehicles in 2014 some for a few weeks and others for many months. Please continue to pray for the current residents whose names appear in the Sunday service bulletin.
Boy Scouts of America Troop #179Larry Myers
St. Paul’s is proud to sponsor a very active and successful Boy Scout unit which has been using our facilities for many years. The unit meets twice a week in Kahler Hall in addition to using the parking lot for assembly for special outings. Unit 179 has approximately 50 boys including 6 earning Eagle rank. This past year several from our unit attended Philmont Ranch Training Center in New Mexico for a week. One of our scouts was selected for National Youth Leadership Training, a very competitive and prestigious award. The scouts have performed several service projects at St. Paul’s.
30
Alcoholics AnonymousPaula Robertson
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. St. Paul’s continues a long-standing tradition of providing meeting space for several AA groups. The Sunday meeting averages 35 attendees, the Monday evening group is 75 and the Wednesday evening meditation group is 10-12. During the summer there was an additional Wednesday evening study group for 12 weeks that drew as many as 100 participants. Currently there is a Wednesday evening Traditions in Relationships workshop that hosts 20-30 people. Although the individual meeting donations are small, the total income received from the various AA groups exceeded $5,000 in 2014. We received a letter of appreciation from one of the participants who became a leader. It is included below.
Dear Church,
My name is Cindy. I am in AA. I have wanted to thank you for a long time. I got sober about 3 years ago. When I came out of rehab, I started attending AA meetings.
I have been attending meetings that are held at St. Paul’s church. I want you all to know how my life had been blessed. Because of your generous church, my life and hundreds of others are being changed. I am amazed how we are able to come in to your building week after week. The Faith you all have is strong, allowing a bunch of recovering addicts to use your facility. We are so blessed. There are no words to really express my gratitude for your gift of love. May God richly bless your church family in all you do.
Love in Christ, Cindy
Sister Congregation – Cathedral Church of Ascension, Sefwi WiawsoPaula Robertson
This was the 4th year St. Paul’s has provided an annual donation of $1200 to support the building of the lodge for our sister congregation. The relationship was formed after Bishop Bruno and Bishop Ackah of the Diocese of Wiawso entered into a covenant relationship and our pilgrims visited the cathedral for services in 2010. Our most recent pilgrims also had an opportunity to visit and meet the Canon Solomon Ohene Williams, priest in charge. I have enjoyed receiving communications from the Canon Solomon. He keeps us up to date on what is going on in his world. He recently accepted a new position in the diocese and one of his recent e-mails is below.
Needs that the congregation should be aware of? The 2015 Vestry will decide during their retreat on continuing the contribution. Your donations are welcome. Note Wiawso and/or Sister Congregation in the memo line.
1/1/2015Beloved Sister in Christ,
I cannot go it without you as we are ushered into a new year. The Lord has been so gracious unto us. In all our shortcomings, difficult situations, He was all around to save, indeed the Lord deserve our thanks and praise.
Another day, another month, another year, another smile, another tear, another winter,a summer too, but there will never be another you!
May lovely, happy times decorate this time of the season.May warm, special memories brighten your new year. How was your X'mas activities, I believe you had a nice time with the Lord as we did here. The holidays was full
of activities. We started from the 24th Dec. with 9 Lessons and carols, 25th X'mas service, 26th St Stephen, 27th St. John, 28th the 1st Sunday after X'mas and in the evening we had the mass of the Holy Innocents, watch night on the 31st and as we ushered into the new year after 12 midnight we had the mass of Naming and Circumcision of the Baby
31
Christ born to us. At 4 pm today we had a get together/love feast with some indoor games as well as brass band music, it was a time of fun. (I will try my best to get you pictures of the program God willing in my next mail)
It is my wish that this year will see us becoming closer than ever before and that we shall be bound together with the cords of love, both of us and our families. My regards to your husband, my brother (your son) and all the brethren at St. Paul's, wishing them all a happy and gracious new year. Do endeavor to let me hear from you in the soonest. God bless you.
I am,Your brother,Rev. Canon Solomon Ohene Williams. Parish Priest, Corpus Christi Parish & Archdeacon of Wiawso.
Diocese of Wiawso SeminariansPaula Robertson
The Rev. Canon Doug Edwards brought a request to the vestry to consider supporting 1st year and 3rd year seminarians who attend the St. Nicholas Seminary in the Diocese of Wiawso. The vestry approved the request of approximately $590 per year per seminarian and the monies are drawn from the Seminarian Scholarship Fund over the 4 year period.
Prayer & Service Ministries
St. Paul’s Men’s GroupRoger Mann
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. In the simplest terms, we are a group of men from St. Paul’s, who meet Friday mornings at 6:30AM for fellowship, prayer and worship. There are few limits to our discussions other than we respect the right of all of us to have an opinion about matters in our families, our faith, our church, our city and the world as a whole. Most Fridays, we have a time of good natured fellowship, telling stories about our week or some situation that has occurred, then Borneman tells us a joke we’ve heard a dozen times before, that is followed by a time of prayer and reflection, during this time we offer prayer requests, concerns and thanksgivings for whatever is on the hearts of those in attendance, breakfast follows. After breakfast we read, discuss, consider and reflect on the Scripture readings for the upcoming Sunday and as schedules dictate, depart as needed.
We meet at Coco’s on the corner of Ashwood and Telegraph roads.
Participants over the past year have been Nate Alday, Will Alday, Ralph Armstrong, Jon Bek, John Borneman, Fr. Anthony Guillen, Greg Jackson, Ben Mann, Greg McCombs, Larry Myers, Miles Sexton, Gabe Vega, Art Wahl, Dan Wakelee, Rod Weldon, Doug Wied and Gethin Wied.
During the past year, we have been involved and support many groups and activities within St. Paul’s community. We have supported the Abundant Table, the acolyte annual thank you party and the pilgrimage to Africa financially as well as spiritually, We host the St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Oktoberfest and we hosted the 125th anniversary celebration. Throughout the year we have paid for the new banners that hang in the parish hall. We are also involved in work projects around campus, most recently helping clear out the yard area next to the pre-school classrooms.
32
Daughters of the KingPaula Robertson, President
Below is a brief description of the year’s activities, including accomplishments and who was involved. Last year marked the 37th anniversary of the Bishop Gooden Memorial Chapter at St. Paul’s. The Daughters of the King is an international order of women devoted to prayer, service, and evangelism. The 22 active members pray daily for healing, support and guidance from requests by parishioners and members. We come together to serve at Baptism and Funeral receptions. Members also serve on the Altar Guild, Welcome Committee, Choir, Hospitality Team, CMH Auxiliary and take up leadership roles as Acolyte chair, Vestry member, Congregational Garden leader, Public Librarian, Usher, Lay Eucharistic Minister, and Temple Forte Musician to name a few. All members serve as they are called. Our members support evangelism with contributions to funds for the national order’s sponsorship of overseas missionaries. We also wear our crosses daily to encourage conversations with those around us.
Last summer we installed 4 new members, Marilyn Angelo, Sonya Griffith, Elizabeth Rinnander and Katie Sebenius. We elected our current officers in the fall. They are Paula Robertson, President, Christine Smith, Vice-president, Eunice Koch, Secretary, and Katie Sebenius, Treasurer. We also began to study Continuing the Journey: The Spiritual Formation Guide, which is a resource developed by the national office. Several members attended the Province Fall Assembly held at Prince of Peace in Woodland Hills.
What is your vision for 2015? In 2015, we will explore a chapter service project as well as ways to interact with nearby chapters. We will hold a Women’s spring retreat on a Saturday in April and continue our studies, prayers, service and evangelism. We will follow with a 3-month study for women interested in exploring joining this amazing, diverse, spiritual, joyful group. Talk to any of us if you are interested.
Motto of the OrderFor His Sake…
I am but one, but I am one.I cannot do everything, but I can do something,
What I can do, I ought to do,What I ought to do, by the grace of God I will do.
Lord, what will you have me do?
33
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEEREPORT OF 2014 TO ANNUAL MEETING 2015
Holy God, it is your will that we walk the way Jesus leads. Guide us as we stumble forward and learn to walk more fully with your Son,
our Savior. As we tread your path of service, fill our hearts with grace and gratitude for your abundance; that we may give
generously of ourselves in hope and strength for the journey ahead. Amen.
St. Paul’s is blessed to be a community rich in faith, walking the way Jesus leads us. Your Stewardship Committee meets monthly year round to plan and promote the pledged financial support of the parish in the context of our ministries and mission. St. Paul’s is funded by the generosity of financial
commitments from our worshipping community and our pledged income is the basis for our parish budget. In 2014 the Stewardship Committee continued to highlight various parish ministries each month, as we had done in 2012 and 2013, hosted guests from Deanery One to view presentations from The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) 2014 Stewardship Conference webcast from Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, and we conducted a campaign for 2015 pledges which resulted in 91 pledges totaling $243,219.
Are you called to imagine St. Paul’s in 2015 and beyond? Join our committee! We’re looking forward to building on our programs of the last few years, and welcome your participation and fresh ideas. Coming soon is a regional stewardship seminar, one of a series called for by Bishop Suffragan Diane Jardin Bruce, stewardship officer for the L.A. Diocese, with the help of the Program Group on Stewardship. The seminar, focusing on year-round stewardship, planned giving, and capital campaigns, will be held at St. Mark’s Church in Glendale, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16th.
WALKING THE WAY – 2015 GIVING CAMPAIGN
Inspired by TENS, the Stewardship Committee chose the theme “Walking the Way” for the 2015 Giving Campaign to focus on our journey of faith. We adapted the specifics of the campaign for our parish, planning the details from writing the stewardship prayer above, creating a host of materials for the campaign for print and electronic distribution, and planning the many details of the campaign. We are proud of our custom St. Paul’s “Walking the Way” logo! It was used throughout our stewardship materials, was adapted for the 125th anniversary celebration of the parish, and continues to be used in other parish communications. We are grateful for Drew Darby sharing his graphic art talent in creating beautiful artwork for our communications, a visual reminder of our mission. We are grateful for Paula Robertson, Parish Administrator, for going the distance with us throughout production and campaign.
The campaign began October 5, 2014, with the distribution of pledge packets before worship services, each given with a St. Paul’s Walking the Way reusable bag.
The annual giving campaign is a time to reflect on how this community has nurtured you and your family in the walk of faith. During October church services we heard a variety of heartfelt
34
perspectives about the practice of giving to the parish, ranging from a cradle Episcopalian to one of our newest members. We are grateful for Eunice Koch, Ralph and Kay Armstrong, Amanda Holden, and Bridget and Aramis Nahabedian for sharing their giving stories.
A common refrain said on the journey of the pilgrim is “the Way is made by walking.” There are many pilgrims among us who had the courage to travel afar, sometimes facing discomforts, being among different cultures, and walking where Jesus sacrificed for us. We are grateful for Rev. Susan, Marjorie Cole, John Borneman and Jon Bek for sharing their pilgrimage stories to the Holy Land and Eastern Sierras.
The first Sunday evening in the Giving Campaign, pilgrims journeyed around campus, experiencing spiritual pauses along the way such as a chapel art introspection, lingering on the labyrinth with poetry, designing prayer flags and ringing hand bells. Colorful prayer cards and a journal deepened our participation during the Spirit Festival and left us with more tools for the greater journey of living in faith. We enjoyed a light Mediterranean-inspired supper and address by Rev. Susan. We are grateful for all who helped prepare food, decorate, clean up and organize the event: Shirley and Larry Myers, Josephine Barnaby, Isabella Herrick, Marilyn Hass, RoseAnn Hill, Carol Brewer and the Floral Guild; we are grateful for our Health Ministry, Katherine Steever and her assistants for teaching Tai Chi; we are grateful for our Music Ministry and Sara Edwards for teaching the pilgrims about hand bells.
We hope your giving will come from a deep abiding sense of gratitude for the gift of this community and the gift we have in Jesus, the one who does not leave our side in our walk of faith. In gratitude for St. Paul’s blessings, the Stewardship Committee hosted a Celebration Dinner to close the Giving Campaign on Sunday, November 2nd. It was a celebration of all who have committed to funding St. Paul’s mission and ministry in our 126th year. All members were invited to the complimentary, fun-for-all-ages event held in 1940s-decorated Kahler Hall. Big Mann BBQ served blue-plate-special dinners. Covenant Players, an interdenominational drama ministry headquartered in Oxnard, entertained the crowd, communicating the love of God and the Good News of Jesus Christ through drama. We are grateful for Roger Mann and his crew Pennie Mann, and Nate and Anne Alday, for preparing a wonderful meal and cleaning up after; David and RoseAnn Hill for tending bar, Ruth McCool and Katie Weldon for greeting, and the Covenant Players for keeping us laughing.
With thanksgiving for you as fellow pilgrims in walking the way of Christ Jesus,
Lori Burke, Stewardship Committee ChairpersonThe Rev. Susan Bek, Lynn Edwards, David Hill, Ruth McCool, Roger Myers, Katie Weldon
