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MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska January 22, 2013

Bethesda Mennonite Church Mission Statement A community caring for all God's people,

Being transformed by Christ's love, Serving others as a witness of God's grace and peace.

Present: Gentry Friesen, Daphne Hall, Jeff Peters, Marlene Ott, Steve Michel, Blaine Friesen, Pastor Sherm Kauffman, Carol Janzen, Jay Goertzen. Absent: Lavonne Braun, Arlyce Friesen 1. Carol brought devotions encouraging us to be present in the moment and to ask God to continually dwell with us as we go about our days. 2. The Minutes from the December meeting were reviewed and one correction made to item 2 where there was an accidental repetition (...Arlyce moved to moved to accept...). Blaine moved to accept the minutes with that one correction. Jeff seconded. Motion carried. 3. The agenda was adjusted a little with the addition of a college scholarship question replacing item #6 and a discussion on the Ashland Church monthly offering for item #5. For future agenda items to be considered, a new pictorial directory is being considered and 2014 will be Bethesda's 140th anniversary. If any special programs/celebrations are to be planned we should begin thinking and working on that. 4. Larry Cox has agreed to do the Annual Church Audit for the 2012 tax year. A motion to accept was made by Jeff. Marlene seconded. Motion carried. 5. A request was made to add Grace University Band to the approved offering list. Discussion followed and the decision was made to table the request until further information is gathered. There was also a question brought to Church Council about our monthly giving to the Ashland Church which was discussed and determined to leave as it is for now. Any official action that may change how and the amount that Bethesda is currently sending on a monthly basis was tabled. 6. A question concerning Bethesda college scholarship recipients was brought to church council and after discussing and reviewing the situation it was determined that the scholarship in question was in line with the bylaws. 7. This was tabled until the next meeting citing the turn-over that will occur with the annual meeting.

8. A Church Council Policies Committee will be formed in the near future to review policies and amend and bring them up to date with our church's current needs and Church Council's function. 9. a. Deacon Report: -The Annual Deacon Retreat has been set for February 2, 2013. -There are 9 students in the new catechism class. -The Deacon Selection Revision Committee has been meeting and working on adjusting the selection process to better fit our current church size and needs. b. Board of Education: -Discussion was brought up about the security of the wireless internet in the youth room. More information is needed about whether or not it is currently password protected as well as what options are available for blocking/monitoring software. -The Safe Sanctuaries committee continues to go through the results from the walk through last year. Background checks for teachers were discussed especially for Sunday school teachers, Bible School leaders and other positions that work directly with children. c. Business Board: -The main topic of discussion was the new recent opening of the head custodian position. An exit interview is planned with Robert and should be helpful in hiring and training his replacement. The Business Board is in the process of interviewing at least 2 candidates for the position. Robert and Martha's service to the Church has been greatly appreciated over the years. -The Business Board is now planning to do a yearly formal review with all custodial staff to help keep communication open and give basis for pay raises etc. -There have been some issues concerning the sanctuary and the trash being left behind from the coffee spot. Therefore people are being asked to please not bring coffee into the sanctuary, and please dispose of empty coffee cups appropriately.

d. Board of Christian Service: Did not meet. e. Board of Outreach: -The Backpack Program is going smoothly and volunteers are lined up at least for a few weeks but more are constantly needed so if you are interested in helping provide backpacks of food to local children in need please contact one of the Board of Outreach members. 10. The Annual Meeting was discussed. Preparations are going well at this point and the biggest orders of business will be the full implementation of the new structure and the presentation of the newly integrated budget.

11. Carol Janzen closed with prayer.

The next meeting will be held February 26 at 7:30 p.m. with Arlyce Friesen sharing devotions. Church Council Chair: Steve Michel Vice Chair: Jeff Peters Secretary: Jay Goertzen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska February 26, 2013 PRESENT: Steve Michel, Daphne Hall, Shar Doell, Laura Steingard, Arlyce Friesen, Arlin Hiebner, Jeff Peters, Pastor Sherm, Gary Buller, Cindy Friesen and Royce Janzen. David Quiring was also present for a short presentation.

1. Arlyce gave the devotions based on Philippians 2, about the call to serve.

2. Daphne moved and Jeff seconded to approve the January 22, 2013, minutes. Motion Carried.

3. Agenda item addition is Pastor Andrea’s evaluation.

4. Reorganization of Council for 2013: Jeff moved and Daphne seconded to include in one motion the entire slate: Steve Michel, Chair; Jeff Peters, Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Secretary; Shar Doell, Business Board Representative; Gary Buller, Service and Outreach Board Representative; Royce Janzen, Education Board Representative. Motion Carried. One additional member is needed to serve on the Church Council Policy Committee. Jeff will serve as Chair with Daphne and Cindy as members. If anyone else on Church Council is interested in serving, they are to let Jeff know.

5. Pastor Sherm reviewed Church Council duties from the Bylaws. He said the Church Council

carries the administrative responsibilities for the church, like a board of directors. It was asked if the Deacons are under the Church Council, since all boards report to the Church Council? Should Church Council take the lead in stating Bethesda’s vision and shepherding that vision throughout the membership? What is the role of vision and who is responsible to call the organization to live into that vision? All parts of the organization should be encouraged to implement their part of the vision. Sherm is concerned about the visionary leadership of the congregation; there are some leadership discrepancies in our policies. Who integrates our mission statement into all boards? Are our Bylaws different than what we are doing? We are encouraged to have a Personnel Committee and a written Personnel Handbook (Employee Handbook). We could appoint a committee/task group from the Church Council who can do the leg work, coop a person who is trained in Human Relations who can help develop the handbook so that everyone is treated fairly. If we develop a Personnel Handbook, the section regarding Pastoral Reviews could be removed from the Bylaws and added to the handbook. Pastor Sherm observed the Bylaws does not include the role and function of pastoral leadership in the congregation.

6. Ashland, Montana Church Fellowship Support: David Quiring gave a presentation on the

Ashland, Montana Church Fellowship. Ed Kaufman, CPMC Minister, asked us to partner with Ashland, or to be their sister church, in 2008 and asked if we could give $1000 to them on a monthly basis. There were only 3 members when the church began, and now there are 30. Lori and Doug Bishop became the pastors and have had a difficult time in getting others to come to the faith. We have been giving them $1000 a month which was adequate until Doug quit his

mining job to devote his time more fully to the church. At that time David Boshart asked if Bethesda could give an extra $1000. We’ve been giving them $2000 a month, subsidized by church members, but giving this extra amount has never had Council action. A motion is needed to continue sending $2000 per month. Our contract dated November, 2008, was to send $1000 a month. This contract was good for 2 years, at which time we were to perform a review. This review was never completed. David Quiring said we could go to CPMC and to encourage other churches to also take hold of this project. David Boshart will be asked to have the conference get assistance from other congregations. Gary moved and Jeff seconded that Bethesda is committed to giving $1,000 a month to Ashland, Montana Fellowship and is open to forwarding any additional designations of gifts up to $2,000 a month. Amounts above the $2,000 will be used for the next month. Motion Carried.

7. Delegates to CPMC. Gary moved and Shar seconded to appoint Arlin as chair of the delegates.

Motion Carried. Arlin will select a Vice Chair and Secretary. a. Daphne is Chair of the Pastor Review Policy Committee and Jeff will serve in place of

Steve, and Deacons Marlene, Laura and David. There are also to be 2 members at large to serve on this committee. Daphne would like to have suggestions of names; they are to be information gatherers. David Breckbill will be the Conference rep.

8. Reports:

a. Deacon Report: Task force for upgrade to church security systems. Sherm would like to see if we can implement these upgrades by the end of March. Office computer network system, new telephone system, new website, overall facility security system, offices, preschool and door locking system. Sherm asked the Council’s permission to take on this project. Council agreed by consensus.

b. Board of Education: The Chair of Education Board and Preschool Committee should hire the Preschool employees and Council will set salaries for Preschool employees.

c. Business Board: The Fellowship Hall chairs and cart have been purchased. Monroe suggested a different cart which is cheaper and in turn, more chairs could be purchased.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: The Backpack Program is going well and there is a need to add another backpack for next year. There is a lot of need out there. Gary said they are currently looking for ushers. The role of the Mission Inquiry and Emissary Representative is to administer the funding for ministry opportunities. Council discussed moving it under the Board of Service and Outreach who would then appoint an individual to administer it. Kurt Goertzen has done this in the past and done a great job. It was decided we need a policy to do this change before we vote on it. Council needs to update our policy as well. Gary will bring his policy for next month.

e. Website Committee: The group has selected Clover as the website provider. The website could be up and running in as little as two weeks. Arlin moved and Laura seconded to go ahead with the Clover Website Provider. Motion Carried.

The monthly meeting devotional signup sheet was passed around.

The request to add Grace University to our approved offering list was not needed at this time. The Council will need to appoint a committee to plan for our 140th Anniversary next year. Steve referred us to a letter from Enole Ditsheko which we will defer until next month.

9. Arlyce Friesen closed with prayer. The next meeting will be held March 26 at 7:30 p.m. with Steve Michel sharing devotions. Church Council Chair: Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair: Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary: Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska March 26, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. PRESENT: Steve Michel, Jeff Peters, Daphne Hall, Arlyce Friesen, Laura Steingard, Arlin Hiebner, Shar Doell, Gary Buller, Royce Janzen, Pastor Sherm, Cindy Friesen

1. Steve Michel gave a short devotional based on 1 Corinthians 1:10 and John 12:12 based on vision/unity. Steve said in his experience on various boards it appears we have not done a good job of trusting each other. Each body has a specific function as it pertains to the whole. We should use our different gifts to help each other. He asked that we pray for other Christians, forget the small things that divide us and try to remember what unifies us, which is Jesus Christ.

2. Royce moved and Shar seconded to approve the February 26, 2013, minutes. Motion Carried.

3. Agenda item addition is Fellowship Hall Use, Preschool Hiring Report, Pastor Congregational

Review for Andrea, Wireless Internet Upgrade and Internet Filtering.

4. We discussed the request to add Eleven Apostles Church in Gabarone (Enole’s Church) to the Approved Offering List. The request is for Bethesda to assist 2 of their members to attend a conference on peace and reconciliation at a cost of $800 each. Royce and Norm’s Sunday school class will cover the cost of one person. Church Council approved this as a onetime special project. After the money is collected we will remove it from the list. Laura moved and Gary seconded to approve the request in the amount of $1,600. Motion Carried.

4b. Daphne moved and Cindy seconded to approve a request for a birthday party for an individual less than 70 years of age to be held in the Fellowship Hall and charge a fee of $40.00. Policy CC-60 states the church can be used for birthdays of 70 years and above. This Policy is in review by the Policy Committee. Motion Carried.

5. Phone System Upgrade Proposal: Arlin Hiebner and Brad Janzen worked on finding a suitable

phone system for the facility. This is a Digital Phone System that would be adequate for us. Individuals have donated the funds for this system. Gary moved and Laura seconded to approve the entire upgrade of the phone system. Motion Carried.

6. May 5, 2013 Leadership Training Workshop: The Deacons discussed the success of the Rick

Stiffney workshop. Pastor Sherm has done a lot of work with previous congregations he pastored at to strengthen them. We would invite the entire congregation to attend a workshop on May 5 from 3:00 to 8:30 with a Mexican meal being served and Pastor Sherm leading it. Unity and trust are essential and we need to work on rebuilding our trust and our identity. We will send a letter to the people in leadership roles in the church, but all others in the congregation are welcome.

7. There is a need for Bethesda governance conversation between the Board of Deacons and

Church Council to determine the roles of each board and who does what. Pastor Sherm said the Lead Pastor Job Description dated June 20, 2012, was likely updated by Pastors Mim and

Jim. Pastor Sherm’s concern is that there is no cross reference between the Bylaws and the current Lead Pastor Job Description. The Bylaws should be interfaced with this job description. Someone will need to sit down and sort through the various pieces we have so there is some clarity and some check and balance. We will plan for a separate time when deacons and church council can get together for a conversational planning meeting. Sherm, Blaine and Steve would decide how this would be facilitated. The Search Committee needs to see the updated version of the Lead Pastor Job Description. Sherm has a call in to Mim and Jim to determine when or if the lead pastor job description was revised. The Bylaws say nothing about the vision of the congregation and how the two work together. Each member of the Church Council is to let Cindy know when it suits us for this meeting.

8. Reports:

a. Deacon Report: The Deacons offered Pastor Sherm a 60 day extension on his contract thru June; he is not available in July. We so appreciate his leadership. Honorariums for visiting Pastors have been increased to $225 minimum. The Wood River Mennonite Church will host a Conflict Resolution Workshop on November 8 and 9, 2013 with The Lombard Peace Center in the leadership role. b. Board of Education: The Safe Sanctuary Policy will be ready soon and the board will bring it to Church Council at that time. c. Board of Business: Shar said a total of 100 new Fellowship Hall chairs were purchased. The board is working on locking the church, and trying to get panic bars installed a.s.a.p. Monroe will be driving the church van with a trailer out to the cemetery to mow. d. Board of Service and Outreach: The Board has changed the policy for the Sound System so as to be very clear concerning responsibilities. They plan to train additional people, so people know how to set up mikes in the Fellowship Hall, Christmas programs, etc. Church Council needs to approve the policy of each committee, to see that they all fit together. Jeff and committee will review the new Policy for the Board of Service and Outreach. e. Website Committee: Cindy said the Website is coming along well. She is looking for someone to build us a logo, also looking for someone who can take photos on a regular basis. Andrea is helping fill in the Youth parts. We could show people how to navigate the new site and might do this on a Sunday morning during the Sunday school hour. f. Structure Committee: Currently working on the Church Council policy. g. Historical Committee: No report h. Safe Congregation Policy Committee Report: They are working on the issue of locking the doors, security cameras, etc. They have completed the first draft. The culture in recent years has changed so the need to lock the church doors to protect our employees and children is more urgent; it is for people’s safety as well as the property. It is proposed that a lock box with an access code will be installed with appropriate people having that code. Arlin Hiebner, Cindy Friesen, Brad Janzen, Monroe Sawatzky, Tara Maltsburger and Pastor Sherm are working on this. i. Preschool Position: Brad said they have interviewed two very qualified candidates. Church Council will need to approve the salaries by the first of April. They are looking at moving to Jeff Selzer’s ideas that he had and other Preschools of having a base salary of $17,000 to $18,000 (a living wage) plus 10% of student’s tuition. Both candidates are applying for both the director and teacher positions. Last year’s total compensation was $17,500 combined. With last year’s student numbers, the total compensation would be $21,000 in the 2013-14 school year. This would be about a $3,500 increase from last year. Maximum capacity is 12 students per class per state statutes with no benefits. Church Council members will be getting emails so we can vote on the recommended compensation.

9. Committee Appointments: Mennonite World Review Reporter: Change of name noted of newspaper

Scattered Seeds Reporter: Margaret Hiebner (not Andrea Wall as listed on Agenda) Kitchen Supervisor: Steve will contact these people

10. Pastor Congregational Review: Daphne and her committee will be gathering information for the

Congregational Review. A lot has been accomplished the last few meetings concerning the basic tasks of Pastor Andrea. They want to be sure people understand the tasks, as well as consider the education level of the position. They are going to be finalizing the form which can be completed electronically or on paper. They hope to be done by May 1. Information will be assessed and given to the deacons. Another group will be formed later for the pastor review process for Pastor Jim also. David Breckbill is also helping.

11. Wireless Internet Upgrade: The present wireless internet system has one in the Youth area and

one in the Office area; a proposal has been given to add an additional wireless system in the Fellowship Hall/Education Wing area. We would isolate and secure the Office. We talked about what kind of controls and restrictions for access would be in place in the Youth area. Gary talked about antennas that will be providing internet access outside of this building and limit what is accessible. We should have everything else outside of the Office without a password. Gary moved and Arlin seconded to approve the filtering software and additional wireless coverage of the Education Wing and Fellowship Hall. Motion carried.

12. Security Camera Quote: Laura moved Shar seconded to approve the total cost of $700 for the purchase of the Security Cameras that have the capability of recording. Motion carried.

The next meeting will be held on April 23, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. with Shar Doell sharing devotions. Steve closed with prayer. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska April 23, 2013, @ 8:00 p.m.

Mission Statement “A community caring for all God’s people,

being transformed by Christ’s love, serving others as a witness of God’s grace and peace.”

PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Laura Steingard and Arlin Hiebner, Deacon Board; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administration; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach; Royce Janzen, Board of Education; and Pastor Sherm. Also attending as presenters were Penny Buller, Church Treasurer; and Jennifer Buller and Ron Goertzen representing Dayspring.

1. Shar Doell gave a short devotional and began by reading the Mission Statement and a portion from the “Yoke of Obedience” about the call to ministry and greatness of service, also the commitment of service and sacrifice. We must be servants first.

2. Cindy moved and Daphne seconded to approve the March 26, 2013 minutes. Motion

Carried.

3. Agenda item additions include: a. 9 h. Form Employee Handbook Committee b. 9 i. Pastor Review Process Update c. 9.j. Form committee for 140th Anniversary d. 9.k. Approve Kitchen Supervisor and Assistant Kitchen Supervisor

4. Dayspring concerning Pat and Rad Houmphan: Ron Goertzen and Jennifer Buller gave

an update on the Dayspring Board which includes Ron Goertzen, Jennifer Buller, David Quiring and Homer Friesen. He said that Dayspring operates loosely under the Church Council and they report once a year with updates. Dayspring is a 501c3 organization and was organized when Eugene Thieszen went back to Africa. Organization was done under the auspices of Church Council but operates autonomously of Bethesda. Mennonite Mission Network had no presence in Botswana at that time and MCC was backing off so Dayspring took over. Mennonite Mission Network encourages congregations to work with congregations in other countries. Jennifer said they are looking at partnering with Pat and Rad in their ministry in Thailand. Pat and Rad have been associated with Witness Canada and also Mennonite Mission Network but MMN is no longer affiliated with them. Pat has resigned from Witness Canada and is working on a business venture to send people from Thailand to North America to learn the English language and observe business practices then take their knowledge back to Thailand to

help their country. Pat and Rad have been there for 20 some years and have 2 to 3 churches started and want to continue that. Rad’s term with Witness Canada comes to an end this summer and Rad would like to continue in this area of church planting. Dayspring would be used as a conduit through which funds could be contributed for projects, such as planting churches where they are now. They would like to plant 12 more churches before they retire; this would primarily be Rad’s responsibility with some of Pat’s help since he has his other business. They hope to have Pat’s business help with funding in the future. Jennifer is coming to inform Church Council as to the projects they will be involved with and is hoping we can help support part of the budget for Pat and Rad. When things progress they will be asking for funding from our congregation. Dayspring is in Bethesda’s approved offering list. Several churches in Canada have been supporting them heavily and that money would come to Dayspring who would have the responsibilities and accountability, including setting a budget. They serve as the fiscal agent for these projects. The First Mennonite Church in Newton, Kansas is also interested in this project. Dayspring’s proposed budget for 2013 will be between $60,000 and $65,000 annually, but nothing is finalized yet.

5. Central Treasurer’s Report: Penny plans to report to Church Council on a quarterly

basis. Penny likes how the integrated budget is working. She would like to see a policy stating that only boards can dispense vouchers. The request for funds for Enole has changed because another church has decided to pay for his churches expenses for 2013. There is some misunderstanding as to our current commitment to this project, Bethesda will review a new request for funds next year but it is not something we have approved currently as a one-time project. Larry Cox asked for an Audit Policy. Penny is working on this. The church has switched the Payroll schedule to now pay semi-monthly.

6. Adding Reach Mission as a one-time project: E James Friesen asked to add Reach

International to our Offering Schedule to fund the remaining needs of the project. A total of $22,000 is needed but $16,500 has been raised and they are only in need of an additional $5,500. This is for the mission in the Philippines, doing medical work with Dr Sam Evans. Royce moved and Gary seconded to approve this one time request. Motion Carried.

7. May 5, 2013 Leadership Training Workshop for all Board and Committee members: this

will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Notices will be going out and they are asking for an RSVP as the youth will be serving the meal as a fundraiser.

8. April 28, 2013 Bethesda Governance Workshop for Church Council and Board of

Deacons: We will be using documents from Mennonite Church USA and the Berkey Avenue Mennonite Fellowship. The Berkey Avenue Church used this, which resulted in a new structure for them. Sherm said their Lead Pastor said it is working very well in their congregation since he had been there, as it streamlines the organization and clarifies who disseminates the vision of the church to the entire congregation. We are to inform ourselves of the Church Council and Board of Deacons Bylaws before this

meeting. We are also to look at the current revised version of Lead Pastor Job Description.

9. Proposed Limited Access Points to Church Facility: The Board of Education is now

facilitating the Safe Congregation Policy. There should be a staff person on this task force also. We need to have more work done reviewing staff concerns in an earlier document and come back with a revised version to bring back to Church Council. Sherm, Brad Janzen or Tara Maltsberger as Board of Education and Mike Friesen as Board of Business reps will meet to come up with a draft that ties the security of our building and the Safe Congregation Policy together and then bring it to Church Council for review.

10. Reports: a. Board of Deacons: Laura asked how our congregation would want to be represented on

the Immigration issue for the Phoenix Conference as she will be a delegate. She wants to know how our congregation feels.

b. Board of Education: Kori Lewis has been hired as the new Preschool teacher/director. There is enough money to complete the Preschool playground project. The Business Board will be signing the contract because it is a facility update.

c. Board of Business: Panic Bars will be installed on May 6. Monroe is working well with the board. The Board of Business is encouraged to have a meeting with all the custodial staff.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: The MIE account (farmland account), is not administered by a board at this time but Gary said it is under Church Council at this time but suggested it report to the Board of Service and Outreach. Gary moved and Jeff seconded that Church Council approve that the Board of Service and Outreach is the supervisor for MIE. Motion Carried. Gary asked if there is a reason to write a policy on the Brotherhood since there is no longer an organized Brotherhood. Jeff said “no”. The Canner Committee will be under the Board of Service and Outreach and will be a position without term limits. It would be handled as an annual appointment.

e. Website Committee: Cindy is ready to go live with the new website. f. Structure Committee: Jeff said they have completed the Church Council Policy. They

moved some things out of Policy and to a procedural area. Jeff would like to bring the updated policy to Church Council by the next meeting including a one page summary of the changes. They will then check all the policies to see that they mesh.

g. Employee Handbook: Daphne and Sherm have some ideas for a draft but they would like to have 2 or 3 people to work on this. Several names were suggested for Daphne to contact. She said this will be worked on later this summer.

h. Pastor Review for Pastor Andrea: Church Council members are encouraged to fill out the survey as the deadline is April 25. Daphne said their group will meet the first of May and will then give the information to the deacons. After receiving this document the Deacons will meet with Conference reps to work thru the document. Daphne’s committee will then start the same process for Pastor Jim.

i. 140th anniversary: We discussed what needs to be put into place. We would likely involve the Music Committee, Historical Committee, Staff and the Deacons. Steve will talk to the Historical Committee about beginning this process for 2014.

j. Kitchen Supervisor: Arlyce moved and Jeff seconded to approve the appointments of Jean Peters as Kitchen Supervisor and Brenda Hiebner as Assistant Kitchen Supervisor. Motion Carried.

11. Shar closed the evening with prayer. The next meeting will be held on May 28, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. with Cindy Friesen sharing devotions. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska May 28, 2013, @ 8:00 P.M. PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Arlin Hiebner, Deacon Board Rep.; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administration Rep.; and Royce Janzen, Board of Education Rep. Also attending was Blaine Friesen representing the Deacon Board for a portion of the meeting. ABSENT: Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Laura Steingard, Deacon Board Rep.; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Rep.; and Pastor Sherm Kauffman.

1. Steve called the meeting to order and Cindy led us in devotions by reading 1 Corinthians 3:1-9. Paul was talking to the people in Corinth and addressing their spiritual growth and conflicts in the church. It is up to us as leaders, pastors, etc. to plant the seeds and water them, then allow God to let the seed grow and take root. Cindy led in opening prayer.

2. Cindy moved and Royce seconded to approve the minutes of the April 23, 2013 meeting.

Motion carried.

3. Agenda: No additions.

4. Deacon Board and Church Council Strategy Meetings: Blaine joined the Church Council meeting and informed the group that Pastor Sherm encouraged additional meetings of the Board of Deacons and the Church Council. Pastor Sherm, Blaine and Steve met before the first joint meeting held on April 28, 2013. Blaine reported that Pastor Sherm feels these 2 boards are at the pinnacle of the congregation and would like to have both boards working together to determine the vision of Bethesda. The Deacon Board is willing to meet jointly, possibly on a Sunday noon with lunch and a joint meeting following. Blaine asked for feedback from our board in the next month or so. Steve said we should meet together to strategize. We talked about meeting a few months before and after the Annual Meeting, possibly in September and May. Sherm said the Lead Pastor Job Description triggered this discussion. We will want to have an agenda for the meetings.

5. Mennonite Church USA Letter: We reviewed a letter from Keith Harder concerning the Pastors’

Health Insurance and the possible changes to the current Corinthian Plan. The current plan remains in effect until 2014 but they do not know what effect the government health plan will have on the plan after that time.

6. Reports:

a. Board of Deacons: There will be a follow up meeting to the May 5 Leadership Workshop on Sunday, June 16, during the Sunday school hour. Arlin said the Deacons will have an extra meeting on June 6 to review looking for another Interim Pastor. There was a question on item 8 from the Deacon minutes which read “Pastoral Congregation Relations Committee hasn’t met – waiting on the Policy on the Pastor Reviews.” (Cindy asked for clarification following the meeting and Sherm stated that the item should read “Pastoral Congregation

Relations Committee. Committee hasn’t met due to health issues for Alan Janzen and the lead pastor search process. Pastor Sherm will check with Alan Janzen.”)

b. Board of Education: Pastor Andrea will be attending the Vibrant Faith Ministries; this is dealing with faith in our church. We were asked to be in prayer for her.

c. Board of Business: No written minutes were available. Shar said the Board of Business approved Faller Landscaping to complete work on the north and west corners of the church in the fall. The Sunday Evening Committee asked to approve the storing of a 32 inch nativity set they plan to purchase. This was approved. Panic bars have been installed on all the doors and the locks adjusted.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: There was a question about “user replacement by June 21” in the May 22, 2013 minutes. Cindy will check. (Cindy contacted the board and the minutes were corrected to read “usher replacement by June 21”.) This board is contacting a sound system company to determine how we can improve the system.

e. Website Committee: Cindy has logo designs from 2 individuals; the committee will bring their recommendation to Church Council for approval.

f. Employee Handbook Committee: No work has been completed at this time. g. Bethesda 140th Anniversary Committee: Steve has talked with a couple of members about

chairing this committee but has not had a volunteer yet. Kathy Friesen (Roger) is willing to help and has some ideas. We are to let Steve know of people who might have an interest.

h. Church Council Policy Committee: Jeff came to the Council for some guidance on how to handle certain policies that the Policy Committee thought could be eliminated. The council gave Jeff guidance for him to take back to the Policy Committee. Jeff indicated that he would bring the committee policy change recommendations to the June Church Council meeting to be approved. Items with dollars amounts will be moved to a Treasurer Procedure. The Policy Manual will be available online, in the Library and in the church office. In addition, the Church Council Chair and Moderator will get new Policy books. Jeff and Cindy will get these Policy changes updated and will email them to all council members for review before they are presented for approval at our June meeting.

7. Royce said that some have suggested live streaming our church service. This process should

come from the Board of Service and Outreach. We would encourage getting it to the Nursing Home first. We would need a camera, software, laptop and a video camera. Video streaming is the next priority and there are some funds available for this. Arlin said the phones are in, 1 camera is installed and they are waiting on back-ordered equipment for the wireless internet.

8. Security Camera Proposal: Jeff moved and Royce seconded to approve the following: a. Purchase of monitors (two to be mounted in the church office and one to be mounted in

the preschool) so cameras can be monitored during daytime hours by the office and preschool staff.

b. Any additional necessary equipment needed so the security camera system is able to record during non-office hours. Motion Carried.

9. Steve and Jeff said that in the Church Treasurer’s Procedure Book will state that only boards can dispense vouchers.

Cindy closed the evening with devotions from Ann Lott Graham and closing prayer. The next meeting will be held on June 25, 2013 at 8:00 p.m. with Pastor Sherm sharing devotions. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska June 25, 2013 at 8:00 p.m.

Mission Statement

“A community caring for all God’s people, being transformed by Christ’s love,

serving others as a witness of God’s grace and peace.”

PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Arlin Hiebner and Laura Steingard, Deacon Board Reps.; Shar Doell, Board of Administration Rep.; Royce Janzen, Board of Education Rep.; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Rep. and Pastor Sherm Kauffman. ABSENT: Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary

1. Steve called the meeting to order and Pastor Sherm led in a short devotional based on change, leadership and direction based on Luke 4:14-21. Pastor Sherm also led in prayer.

2. Daphne moved and Arlin seconded to approve the May 28, 2013, minutes. Motion carried.

3. Agenda: one addition about update on the custodial staff. The Agenda was approved as

amended. There will be a change in the devotion schedule. Arlin Hiebner will have devotions in July and Arlyce Friesen will have devotions in November. Steve will ask Cindy to take the minutes in July and August.

4. Ratify Kim Regier and Marlene Thieszen: Shar moved and Laura seconded to ratify Kim Regier and Marlene Thieszen for the at-large positions on the Pastor Jim Voth review Process. Motion carried.

5. Ratify Berdine Buller: Daphne moved and Royce seconded to ratify Berdine Buller as the

Interim Central Treasurer and her MOU through November 30, 2013. Penny has taken a medical leave of absence effective June 3. Motion carried with Gary abstaining.

6. Sound System: The new phone installer came during DVBS and later it was noted that the

center loudspeakers were not working. After checking, it was determined it was because a wire was cut and we also had a blown amp. We will have to spend some money in the years to come with our sound system because technology has changed so much. We discussed putting the sound booth on the floor and we may need some extra speakers. They will wait until this fall to work on the sound system. The Board of Service and Outreach will try to improve the communication with the Bethesda Sound System techs.

7. Special Church Projects: CC-031: We reviewed the updated list as of June 19, 2013, of the

Money in Estate Funds and Money in Special Projects.

8. Limited Access Policy: Pastor Sherm suggested that we set up a congregational meeting time when this Policy can be discussed. We will want to inform the congregation of the Safe Congregation Policy and how that changes access to the facility. We will discuss the key lock to get in after hours and also explain the rationale. The Board of Education has been working on the Safe Congregation Policy. This includes more oversight and background checks of those working with young people. We will want to see a plan of what the cameras are monitoring and that we are accomplishing our stated goals. We need to have this to protect employees and others using our facility. The purpose of the congregational meeting is a time for presenting this information and feedback from the congregation, but not as a decision needed from the congregation as to whether to proceed with this. We would like to get this information to the congregation as soon as possible. We just need input as to what we can do to make it work the best. The committee that has worked on the Safe Congregation Policy is: Mike Friesen, Brad Janzen, Arlin Hiebner, Monroe Sawatzky, Tara Maltsberger, Pastor Jim Voth, and Cindy Friesen. The doors are now all lockable, the lockbox is on the East exterior wall, and the lockbox in the old copy room with the key to the office are all in place. We are concerned for the safety of workers and volunteers and the Preschool. We need to have the Safe Policy and the Limited Access Committees meet together. Board of Education is taking charge of this with Tara, Brad and Pastor Andrea on the Safe Policy Committee representing the Board of Education. To speed up the process we will have a question and answer sheet anticipating all the questions the congregation will ask and then this list goes out to the congregation before the meeting. The planning meeting can be done during the weeks of August when Pastor Sherm is here, which is from August 6-20. We will plan to meet August 11 after Sunday School for the planning group. Shar will plan the noon meal. We need to have a core group meet before the planning meeting to define the purpose of the policy and set up an agenda for this planning meeting. Pastor Sherm will prepare a rough draft for a meeting and send to Steve Michel and Brad Janzen to do the preplanning. Sherm, Steve and Brad will appoint those who will participate in this preplanning process. We need to be clear about what goes to the congregation. We need to let the congregation know about the lock box and the place for the bulletins in preparation for locking the building. Pastor Sherm is back September 8 for the Congregational Informational Meeting. Two other items also identified are (1.) The Lead Pastor transition comes with high tension - what can we learn from it and how will we change that pattern and (2.) The 600 empty seats and the decline in membership - what are we going to do with that? What is the issue and with open congregational conversation we can talk about what has contributed to that decline and what we can do now. Pastor Sherm’s opinion is that it won’t change in great numbers because the cultural trend is showing a general decrease in attendance, so how do we adjust to this trend?

9. Custodial Staff: An employee policy is being worked on.

10. Reports: a. Deacons: The Deacons met with with our Conference Pastor Tim Detweiler. He asked if

we are a Missional Congregation. People need trust. We have done some good things in the congregation, including Pastor Sherm’s extension; Templo Alabanza Church was a good exchange at DVBS time, going to Montana for conference was good. The Cheyenne churches were so happy people came. Pastor Sherm presented a summary of proposed Bylaw changes for the Lead Pastor. He said if the Lead Pastor process continues it would be advisable to make adjustments in the Bylaws so the Lead Pastor’s

job description is consistent with the Bylaws. When we have this completed we will bring it to the congregation with a congregational vote on the Bylaw changes. This will build in accountability of the Lead Pastor and Deacons. We are to come back with suggestions and changes to the document. Pastor Sherm said the Pastoral staff has completed the preaching schedule thru early September.

b. Board of Education: The Bethesda Bible Series is scheduled for February 8 and 9, 2014 with Shane Clayborne as the speaker.

c. Board of Business: They are planning a work day in July to remove shrubs. The Preschool is working on their area.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: The MCC Canner will be here November 12-15. Jeff will see if we can possibly move the date to a better time since harvest could still be ongoing.

e. Website Committee: Cindy said she and Brad have agreed on a logo and will talk to Pastor Andrea before making a final decision.

f. 140th Anniversary. Steve is still looking for someone to chair this event. Kathy Friesen (Roger) wanted to do something at the cemetery like having families get together and do a walk thru and have a history lesson with that. We decided this may be the only event for the 140th Anniversary.

g. Church Council Policy Committee: Voted to implement all new proposed policies (they are all under review and can be changed). Laura moved and Daphne seconded to implement all new proposed policies with the understanding they will be reviewed to be sure there are no conflicts. Motion carried. Jeff would like to have a closing date on this item so we will discuss it at the August Church Council meeting. Cindy will resend all the new policies to us for review.

Pastor Sherm closed with prayer. The next meeting will be held July 23, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. with Arlin Hiebner sharing devotions. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska July 23, 2013 @ 8:00 p.m.

Bethesda Mennonite Church Mission Statement “A community caring for all God’s people,


PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representative; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administration Representative; Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative; Pastor Jim Voth, Penny Buller, Church Treasurer. ABSENT: Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Pastor Sherm Kauffman; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative; Arlin Hiebner, Board of Deacons Representative.

1. Steve called the meeting to order and read devotions prepared by Arlin Hiebner from Philippines 1:27 – 2:8 regarding Paul’s message to the Philippians on edification. To edify is to build one another up or to encourage one another in all we do.

2. Daphne moved and Royce seconded to approve the June 25, 2013, minutes. 3. Agenda addition…Steve will report on the Mennonite Mission Network workshop that Pastor

Jim, Royce, Steve and Shar attended. No other additions. Approved as amended. 4. The Quarterly Treasurer’s Report was given by Penny. Penny noted on page 2 of the handout

the Travel and Visitation Mileage Expense fund will possibly go over budget. This fund is primarily for the pastor’s traveling expenses. Since the church car was sold, we now pay mileage to the pastors. The other fund that may go over budget is the Worship and Catechism Materials. This fund is for baptism, communion, worship and other miscellaneous expenses. Items used during lent such as the Set Free banner and the use of special paper and colored ink may be the cause of this fund going over budget. Daphne wondered if it was possible to review the annual budget of the last two years of actual expenses to determine the budget more closely in the future. All other expenses were in line with the budgeted amount. Page 4 gave a summary of the report.

a. Total Operating Receipts – 37% of budget. b. Total Operating Expenses – 47.51% of budget. c. Receipt/Expenses Comparison – received 79% of funds expensed. Approximately

$42,000-$45,000 is spent per month. It is important to have a three month reserve or cushion. We are $61,000 short on general operating.

d. Penny reviewed how memorial funds are handled. Due to regulations at the bank, things are being handled differently than in the past. Checks made payable to another organization such as Henderson Health Care, are not able to be deposited to Bethesda’s account. Checks must be forwarded to the business and not run through our books. Check must be made payable to Bethesda in order to be run through our books. The total of the funds are reported in the Bethesda News.

5. Review and approve list of organizations and individuals supported by BMC (CC-032): Steve wondered if there is additional education we could offer the congregation when making checks

out to Bethesda versus organizations. Penny puts an announcement in the Bethesda News quarterly reminding members to make checks payable to Bethesda instead of the organization.

a. Add Backpack Program to Approved Designated Offerings List. b. Remove Brandon Rader, Kayla Ott, Emily Kliewer and Hannah Epp as their terms with

CRU, MCC and SALT are completed. Brandon will continue on as missionary in East Asia. See item h.

c. Change Trenton Friesen CRU to the year 2013-2014. d. Change Ted & Co. Bethesda Bible Series to Bethesda Bible Series. e. Remove the duplicate listing of Bethesda Preschool Playground Project. f. Remove Operating Funds from Bethesda Preschool. g. Remove Cemetery Directory (After further discussion with Kathy Friesen, it was

determined the Cemetery Directory should remain on the approved list until the project is totally complete. There is additional concrete work that needs to take place. Approved by Steve Michel, Chair.)

h. There are several individuals interested in supporting Brandon Rader throughout the next year. He is no longer with CRU and will be going back to East Asia as an independent missionary. Auditors do not allow checks to be written directly to individuals however it would be possible to have funds channeled through Dayspring. Penny will talk to the Dayspring Board to determine if this is possible for Brandon. Add Brandon under Dayspring if they accept him under their umbrella.

i. Leave Fellowship Hall chairs on the list in the event additional chairs are needed in the future.

j. To approve the list of organizations and individuals supported by Bethesda Mennonite Church as amended above to fulfill CC Policy 032.

6. Update plans for August 11 meeting: Pastor Sherm, Steve Michel, Brad Janzen and Blaine Friesen will meet on August 6 to set up the agenda for the August 11 meeting. On Sunday, August 11 following Sunday school, a meeting will be held to discuss ways to inform the congregation of the Safe Congregation Policy. This meeting will include the deacons, Church Council members and several other individuals who served on the Safe Congregation Committee. Shar will arrange to have a catered lunch from Subway and Steve will get the names of those to invite to Cindy. Cindy will send out an email to receive RSVP’s as soon as possible so we have an accurate count for lunch. Further discussion was held regarding the location of the congregational meeting on September 8, and it was determined it would be best to have it during the Sunday school hour in the sanctuary.

7. Board Reports: a. Board of Deacons: Laura informed members a Conflict in Church Leadership workshop

will be held November 8-9, 2013, in Wood River. Renee Neufeld will be sharing her Appalachian Trail Adventures Sunday, July 28 @ 7:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Deacon coverage while Pastors Sherm, Jim and Andrea are out of the office was set up for July 28 – August 5. The main goal of the deacons at this time is to give support to Jim and Andrea during transition time.

b. Board of Education: Pastor Andrea and Connie Bechtel attended the Vibrant Faith Conference in Omaha, Nebraska, and reported it was very beneficial.

c. Board of Business: The preschool courtyard is in the process of renovation. They are waiting on concrete installation and the installation of the playground equipment. The Board of Business will be installing new doors in this area as well.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: On Sunday, July 21, there was trouble with one of the microphones and members were having a hard time hearing. It turns out, the

microphone was backwards. It would be helpful to have an individual to unobtrusively take care of sound issues as they occur.

e. Website Committee: Cindy reviewed the Logo Proposal with Church Council members. The committee felt it was important to walk through the steps listed below to discern what visual we want to represent us in the community.

i. Determine what image you want the logo to convey. ii. Think about people’s perception of color and match colors in the logo with the

image you hope to convey. iii. Review the logos of surrounding churches to be sure that the logo selected for

Bethesda sets us apart from others in the area. iv. Review several different logos to compare them and select the one that best

represents Bethesda. v. Gather input on the logo recommendations from others.

vi. Select a logo and communicate to the office staff which logo we will be using on all materials.

vii. After consideration of the logos selected, the Church Council voted unanimously to select the BMC Cross Logo with one change. Change BMC to a vertical position with Bethesda Mennonite Church spelled out. Motion by Daphne to accept the BMC Cross Logo with the changes described. Second by Shar. Motion carried. Cindy will contact the designer to make the changes and then email the design change to all Church Council members.

f. Structure Committee: No report. g. Safe Congregation Policy Committee: Will be reviewed at the August 11, 2013, meeting

and presented to the congregation on September 8. h. Employee Handbook: Work will begin in August. i. Bethesda 140th Anniversary Committee: Alert the congregation from the pulpit about

the upcoming anniversary to determine if there are those who would like to have a celebration/recognition of some sort.

j. Church Policy Committee: Work is complete on the updated policies. They will be reviewed by Church Council at the August meeting.

8. Mennonite Mission Network Presentation by Kevin Goertzen: Steve reviewed the goals of the Mennonite Mission Network for Bethesda.

a. Prayer support: Encourage a goal of at least 10 persons participating in regular prayer support. Pastor Jim felt the Board of Service and Outreach could work to encourage others to make that commitment to pray for those in missions.

b. Participate in Mission Network programs: It was suggested that one person be involved in some type of program in mission.

c. Specific goals for increased financial support. Kevin would like to see us get back to the mid $40,000’s range of giving. Royce wondered where Mennonite Mission Network was included in the financials. Penny will address this question.

The next Church Council meeting will be held August 27, 2013 @ 8:00 p.m. with Royce Janzen giving the devotions. Steve closed in prayer. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Congregational Secretary, Cindy Friesen, pro tem

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska August 27, 2013 @ 8:00 p.m.



PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Arlin Hiebner and Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representatives; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administration Representative; Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative; Pastor Jim Voth ABSENT: Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Pastor Sherm Kauffman 1. Steve called the meeting to order. Royce Janzen opened with devotions which suggested that God

should be the focus of our worship. 2. July 23, 2013 minutes were approved as written. Laura moved to approve. Shar seconded. Motion

carried. 3. Agenda addition – 4a Facilities request. Jeff will report on all church policies after item #10. 4. Flora Mae Fund (Flora is the foster daughter of Dr. Sam and Shari Evans) was ratified as an addition

to the special projects list. This fund will not be ongoing. It will only be used to cover her most recent surgery. Jim Friesen had requested this of Steve Michel two weeks earlier, so as to get it in the bulletin as soon as possible and Steve gave him the go ahead. Motion to ratify made by Daphne, second by Royce. Motion carried. The Cemetery Directory will remain on the list. It had been taken off the list at our last meeting by vote as we were lead to believe that the expenses had all been paid. Kathy had more recently informed Cindy that there were still some expenses to pay. Motion to ratify made by Shar, second by Arlin. Motion carried.

5. Jim Voth presented a request from Erin Sams to use the Fellowship Hall on Friday, September 13, from 7-9 pm for a Mary Kay Party/Fundraiser. Half of the funds raised will be donated to Living Water Mission in York and the other half will be for Erin’s personal expenses. Erin feels deeply called to raise support and build awareness for women in poverty and is using Mary Kay as an avenue to raise money for these women. Gary moved to approve the request and Jeff seconded. Motion carried. Requests such as these will be looked at on a case by case basis in the future.

6. Mission Inquiry and Emissary Representative Report - Kurt Goertzen reported as representative of the Mission Inquiry & Emissary Fund. Kurt said it has been an amazing experience to be the representative and to see the funds used for youth and adults to be a part of mission projects. He thanked the pastors for tapping individuals on the shoulder. The pastors have also been helpful in offering other agencies or groups to assist with expenses. The Philippines project was a large undertaking and it was wonderful to see how the funds became available through additional giving. It was amazing to hear the story of a 16 year old that was asked to scrub up and assist in a surgical procedure in the Philippines! MC USA Conference was another venue where funds were used to assist youth this year. The MIE fund at this time has a total somewhere between $10,000 and $20,000. Kurt regretted having to say no to several projects, but felt it was important to offer

opportunities to first timers who wanted to go on a mission trip. Thank you to the Church Council for putting individuals on the offering list. Support was given by Church Council in saying that individuals who have had the support of the MIE account for a term longer than a year, need to be willing to find other avenues of support.

7. The Corporate Resolution was reviewed. The previous individuals that were signers on the Corporate Resolution were the Board of Business Chair, Church Treasurer and Berdine Buller. Over the last year with the structure change, the Board of Business is no longer in the position of handling accounts. Steve proposed as signers for the General Fund, Savings Accounts, Opening of the Safe Deposit Box, and the Night Deposit Bag either the Treasurer or the Church Council Chair. Only one signature would be required. Individuals who may open and close accounts include the Treasurer, Office Manager and Church Council Chair and would require two signatures, one being the Church Council Chair. Motion carried. Cindy abstained from voting.

8. Select delegate to Bethel College Corporation Meeting. Church Council questioned whether there is still a need for this policy? Arlin reported that he has been going for many years as the delegate. It continues to be an important connection to Bethel College. If there is a vote for a Bethel College board member, he represents Bethesda as a whole. Arlin is willing to be the delegate again. Shar moved that we accept Arlin as a delegate. Laura seconded. Motion carried.

9. Approve Child Protection Plan – there were questions and discussion regarding the following statements:

a. Section II, Letter D, #2d: “The head custodian will present any transportation concerns or needs to the Board of Business.” Church Council was unsure what part the head custodian plays in the Child Protection Plan.

b. Section III, Letter G, #1a: “Only people approved and authorized by Bethesda Mennonite Church are permitted to drive either a Bethesda Mennonite Church-owned vehicle or any other vehicle on the Bethesda Mennonite Church’s behalf. All approved drivers must provide proof of their possession of 1) a valid driver’s license, 2) an acceptable driving record, 3) personal automobile insurance.” Church Council wonders who will collect this information and will this information be collected on each and every driver, even if they drive their own vehicle. How will we know if their driving record is acceptable? Will we do a Motor Vehicle check on each driver?

c. Section III, Letter G, #2: “Driver Ineligibility - Those drivers who exceed the recommended guidelines for accidents or violations are ineligible to drive a vehicle owned by Bethesda Mennonite Church or to drive a personal vehicle on Bethesda Mennonite Church’s business. A driver will not be approved if he or she has in his/her driving record in the past seven years: a. 1 major violation or b. 3 or more moving violations or c. 2 or more accidents or d. 1 at-fault accident and 2 moving violations.” Church Council inquired how this will be enforced. Will a Motor Vehicle Records check be necessary each time someone drives their own vehicle with their own children on board?

d. Section III, Letter H, #1ai: “Two adult leaders will be present during any church activity involving minors… Young leaders (under age 18) may assist in classrooms with adult supervision, but may not substitute for the leadership of an adult and will never be left alone with child or group of children.” Church Council is aware that young persons (under the age of 18) at Bethesda are encouraged to attend teacher training classes in order that they might assist teaching Sunday School in the summer months. Will having this item in the policy, discourage or prevent these young people from helping/teaching?

e. The Child Protection Plan was approved, under the condition that the above listed sections be reviewed by the Church Safety Task Group. Motion by Arlin to accept the Child Protection Plan, second by Laura. Motion carried.

f. The Safe Congregation Limited Access Policy was approved. Motion by Royce, second by Shar. Motion carried.

10. September 15, 2013, a Congregational Meeting will be held during the Sunday school hour for presenting the declining worship attendance, lead pastor turnover trends and to consider the proposed Bylaws changes related to the updated lead pastor job description. Voting will take place. Motion by Laura, Gary second. Motion carried.

11. Church Council Policies were approved. Gary moved, Royce second. Motion carried. Jeff will meet with Cindy for editing and proofreading errors.

a. Policies for kitchen supervisor need to be moved from the Board of Service and Outreach to Church Council policies. Remove mission circle language.

b. Car policy – change wording to vehicle policy. c. BWM – There currently are minutes included in the BWM policy. These should be

deleted from the policies. 12. Reports:

a. Board of Deacons: A “Conflict in the Church” seminar will be held in Wood River, NE, November 8-9. The Board of Deacons will possibly meet with the Church Council on September 29 to work on generative governance. This date is subject to change.

b. Board of Education: Pastor Andrea and Connie Bechtel attended a Faith Formation seminar. They came away with excellent ideas to open up Faith Formation in a greater context with the use of a website that will be linked to the main website. This website will have education opportunities for studying a particular book of the Bible, videos, plus a host of other options.

c. Board of Business: The Preschool playground equipment was installed today and landscaping will be completed tomorrow. Monroe’s six month review took place.

d. Board of Service and Outreach: Two backpacks are being sponsored by Bethesda this year. The board will be hosting a BBQ at the home of Gary Buller for the children at Grace Children’s Home.

e. Web Site Committee: Blakely is continuing to work on the changes to the logo. The online giving link with MC USA is now up and operational.

f. Employee Handbook Committee: Daphne will begin work with Cindy, possibly in September.

g. Pastor Jim Voth Job Review Process: Daphne reported this was the first time to introduce a technology component to the pastor review process and the process worked fairly well. There is a need to correct the perception that a performance review is only done when there are performance problems. It is simply a time for the congregation to review that pastor’s job performance, covering areas of strength and areas that need improvement. It is also a good time to review with the pastor, what is going on in the culture of the church as a whole as well as to discuss better ways of communicating with each other. Deacon affirmation will take place in the next couple of weeks. Arlin will affirm running again. Marlene is still prayerfully considering. This will be the first time to use the revised policy.

13. Royce closed in prayer. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Acting Secretary, Cindy Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska September 24, 2013 8:00 p.m.



PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Arlin Hiebner, Board of Deacons Representative; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative and Pastor Jim Voth. ABSENT: Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administration Representative, Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representative and Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative.

1. Steve called the meeting to order and Gary Buller led us in devotions based on Jeremiah 21:11, concerning having a vision; we are called by God to pursue His purpose in our lives. Visionary people see the needs around us and meet those needs.

2. Agenda addition 4.1. Approve Live Streaming and 5.1 Approve Vacation Policy.

3. Arlin moved and Daphne seconded to approve the August 27, 2013, minutes as written. Motion carried.

4. Technology Management Team: The Pastoral staff is recommending and the Deacon Board has approved the development of this team. Board of Outreach was also contacted for input. It would be beneficial to have one team be responsible for the technical aspect of the church. The committee members should have the skills needed to envision the ongoing technology needs of Bethesda. The people needed to implement those ideas could be a wider group than just the committee members. It would be valuable to include a youth on the committee, and also use a number of youth in the wider group of techs. The Business Board needs to be kept informed when the facility or office would be impacted. This group would answer to the Church Council and would make recommendations for equipment needs Church Council agrees that the concept is a good idea with a little bit of tweaking. Pastor Jim said the present sound people need to know about this team being put together and could have the option to be a part of the committee. Gary moved to approve the formation of a Technology Management Committee that would report to Church Council. Cindy seconded. Motion carried. Daphne moved and Arlyce seconded to appoint Gary Buller, Brad Janzen and Arlin Hiebner as the initial members of the Technology Management Team. Motion carried. They will ask additional people of their willingness to serve and bring these names to Church Council for approval. 4.1 License for live streaming will be taken care of by the Technology Management Committee.

5. The September 29, 2013, joint meeting of Church Council and Board of Deacons has been

postponed to November 17, 18 or 19, if this works for Pastor Sherm. This will satisfy one of the 6 month joint meetings that we would like to implement where we continue conversation of

governance and other issues we need to visit about. We are to let Cindy or Steve know what issues we would like to address at that meeting. Pastor Sherm will be addressing the Journey Wall issues during the Sunday School hour in a congregational meeting setting on the 17th. 5.1 At the present time, unused vacation time has been carried over on an unlimited basis. We will act at a later meeting as to whether we should limit the number of days allowed to be carried over. It’s for the employee’s own benefit to use their vacation time. They should be able to carry over a week of vacation for sure. We will readdress this next month. Our Pastors are now at 16 ½ days of vacation and also 6 sick days, plus a weekend every quarter.

6. Follow up from Sept 8 or 15 meetings: none at this time. 7. Reports:

a. Board of Deacons: World Wide Communion will be held on October 6 at Bethesda. The board is also working on Staff Sabbatical Policies.

b. Board of Education: Reference was made to the Mennonite Educators Conference. c. Board of Business Administration: Pastor Jim had spoken with Shar Doell about 2 sets of

doors that do not have panic bars at this time. d. Board of Service and Outreach: This board will be working with the Technology

Management Committee. e. Website Committee: Cindy thanked the Church Council members for the feedback on the

logo ideas. Comments were varied, so we could not come to a consensus. The Website Committee is recommending design #4. Cindy will email both designs #1 and #4 to Church Council members and request that members vote for one with a reply all. We are to let Cindy know by next Monday.

f. Employee Handbook Committee: Has not met.

8. Memo of Understanding for pastors and staff: a. Pastor Sherm is a Consultant: This will be in effect from September 15, 2013 through August

31, 2014 or 6 weeks before the new lead pastor begins, whichever comes first. Gary moved and Daphne seconded to approve Pastor Sherm’s MOU. Motion carried.

b. Pastor Jim: Cindy moved and Gary seconded to approve Pastor Jim’s MOU for the period Sept. 15 thru Dec. 31, 2013. Motion carried.

c. Pastor Andrea: Arlyce moved and Daphne seconded to approve Pastor Andrea’s MOU for the period Sept. 15 thru Dec. 31, 2013. Motion carried. Jeff has agreed to be on the Salary Negotiation Committee along with Steve. 1 to 3% is the range that is being used in the business world for raises this year. Consensus was to be in that range in raises for the church staff. The inflation rate is 1.7%.

9. Gary closed the evening with prayer.

Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska October 22, 2013 @ 8:00 p.m.


being transformed by Christ’s love, serving other’s as a witness of God’s grace and peace.”

PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representative; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administrative Representative; and Pastor Jim Voth. ABSENT: Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative. Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative and Arlin Hiebner, Board of Deacons Representative.

1. Steve called the meeting to order and Daphne Hall led us in devotions based on Pastor Andrea’s sermon of how busy we are and how that reflects on our life. Scripture verses referenced were Psalm 42:5-6 and verse 11, Isaiah 41:10 and Micah 6:8. We are to be waiting on God’s call. We are to pause and hear His word. Daphne then led in prayer.

2. Agenda additions 9.g. Technology Management Team and also noted that Church Council is not

required to approve the Ballot Committee for Congregational Meetings. This item will be removed from the monthly calendar duties for the Church Council.

3. Daphne moved and Laura seconded to approve the September 24, 2013, minutes as written.

Motion carried.

4. The Preschool Committee is asking Church Council to approve assistance with paying the cost of three member’s attendance at the Mennonite Educators Conference in Leesburg, Virginia, February 6-8, 2014. The cost of the conference will be $444 per person and $250 round trip flight ticket per person. This is a total of $2,082 plus an additional $218 for one extra night of lodging. We will approve $2,300 total minus the $800 the Preschool Committee has in their account, totaling a need of about $1,500. Arlyce moved and Daphne seconded to approve to support this expense in the $1,500 range to come from the Board of Education fund. Motion carried. Steve also said that Arlin said the Preschool has requested to put up a plaque in memory of an individual whose memorial fund money has been given to the Preschool Peace Garden. This would set a precedent; we will make a decision next month with more information.

5. 2014 Salary and Benefit Package and MOU for all Bethesda Employees. The Church Council went

into Executive Session for this discussion.

6. Joint Church Council/Board of Deacons Meeting: Sherm Kauffman will be at Bethesda on November 17 and will lead us in a follow-up conversation on the Congregational Journey Wall Exercise regarding the repeated Lead Pastor turnover and the declining attendance pattern over

the past three years. This meeting will be held during the Sunday school hour. The Potluck will be held on this Sunday also. The adult classes will meet in the Fellowship Hall during the Sunday school hour meeting at round tables. After the noon meal the Church Council members and Board of Deacon members will meet in the Powerhouse room for the quarterly joint meeting.

7. Leadership Workshop-Conflict in the Church will be held on November 8 and 9 at Wood River.

The Deacons are planning to attend as well as the pastors and Cindy. Bethesda will host a Benefit/Fundraiser for Spencer Prentice. Church Council members voted for approval of this request by email with a unanimous decision to let them use the Fellowship Hall for this purpose and to waive the fee.

8. Annual Committee Appointments: Nominating Committee: The Nominating Committee consists of 6 members, one member from each of the four boards and 2 at-large members. The Church Council Representative, Jeff Peters, serves as the Committee Chair. We will fill these positions at our November meeting. Yearbook Committee - Office Staff Mennonite World Review – Margaret Hiebner Visitor Staff – Margaret Hiebner Scattered Seed Correspondent - Margaret Hiebner Chronologist (Historical Committee) - Kathy Friesen Bulletin Board Supervisor - Constitution Revision Committee – There was discussion for the need of such a committee or if we wanted to replace it with Parliamentarians.

9. Reports:

a. Board of Deacons: In the process of discussing Pastor Andrea’s ordination. They are also trying to work on a Sabbatical Policy with MC USA’s help. The preaching schedule is nearly completed through January. They will coordinate holiday services and will switch the Communion service usually held on New Year’s Eve to Epiphany Sunday, January 5, 2014. b. Board of Education: On November 10 and 17 there will be no Sunday school classes for adults. c. Board of Business Administration: Working to complete panic bars. The kitchen is in need of a better venting system but the ceiling repair will require removal of asbestos. There are no trusses in the ceiling which presents a problem for installing ceiling vents. Discussion was held regarding custodial positions at the church. The Board of Business completes the reviews of the individuals in these positions. d. Board of Service and Outreach: no report. e. Website Committee - The work is progressing and the logo is complete. The designer is finishing up the envelopes and stationery logo. f. Employee Handbook Committee - Has met and is beginning the process of developing an Employee Handbook. g. Technology Management Team – Nothing to report at this time. Yearbook question - discussion was held on the format of the yearbook for 2014.

10. Daphne closed with prayer. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska November 26, 2013 @ 7:30 p.m.



PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary; Shar Doell, Board of Business Administrative Representative; Arlin Hiebner and Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representatives; Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative; Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative and Pastor Jim Voth. Penny Buller, Central Treasurer, was present for part of the meeting.

1. Steve called the meeting to order and Arlyce Friesen shared items of concern for prayer in their family. “God is faithful and we just need to look to Him with our concerns and feel the peace of laying it all before Him.” Pastor Jim then led in prayer.

2. Cindy moved and Arlin seconded to approve the October 22, 2013, minutes as written. Motion carried.

3. Agenda addition 9.b. Discussion of email received from Enole. The Agenda was approved as amended.

4. Central Treasurer Report: Penny presented the January 2013, thru October 2013, figures which is the first full Integrated Budget. Penny explained that the Music Committee answers to the Board of Education. Any maintenance done in the church needs to be presented to the Board of Business Administration. We discussed the value of not being so concerned about what things cost, rather to look at what needs there are in the church and doing the work when it needs to be done. It’s the Church Council’s job to see that the money comes in to take care of the expenses. The boards should not have to worry about the finances but rather work at taking care of the facility. If we don’t ask for it, we won’t get it. The issue of asbestos in the kitchen ceiling needs to be taken care of as soon as possible, since it poses a health hazard. There was a suggestion that Church Council and Board of Business Administration members meet to clarify the expectations of the board as it relates to Church Council. We’ve been getting requests for funds from MC USA about items needing attention which are not included in our Offering List. The Children’s Christmas program is using one of these requests to help fund the local food pantries. Gary moved and Jeff seconded to approve the addition any local food banks to our Approved Designated Offerings List. Motion carried. There is interest from anonymous donors to set up a fund for Technology here at the church and would like to make the donation before the end of the year. There is also interest to set up a fund for office renovation to improve the efficiency of office set up. The Board of Business Administration would first of all have to approve the office project. A Facilities Renovation Fund could always be in place. We can’t guarantee the donor that we will go forward with these projects until the funds are all in place to complete that project. Gary moved and Royce seconded to leave the Fellowship Hall Chairs on the Approved Offering List and to add a Facilities Renovation Fund and a Technology Improvement Fund to the list of

Approved Designated Offerings. Motion carried. We can’t have plans drawn up for the office renovation before the end of year but hope the intent is good. Laura read the Board of Deacons note about a $30,000 Technology Fund which has been approved by the Board of Deacons.

5. Approve 2014 Church Council Budget: Daphne moved and Gary seconded to approve the proposed budget. Motion carried.

6. Authorize 2014 Offering Schedule for Congregational Approval at the Annual Meeting: An additional offering will be included on January 5, 2014, for the Benevolent Fund (to replace the one on December 31, 2013). The Board of Education needs to contact Church Council on how to raise funds for the Scholarship Fund. Laura made a motion and Daphne seconded to amend the Offering Schedule to include an offering for the Benevolent Fund as an extra offering on January 5, 2014. Motion carried.

7. Congregational meeting after Annual Meeting to continue Journey Wall Discussion: The consensus is to have this meeting take place on a Sunday morning during the Sunday school hour with a tentative date of February 23, 2014. Cindy will find out when Sherm Kauffman would be available to come to Bethesda so we can continue the Journey Wall discussion, possibly also along with the monthly potluck meal.

8. Preschool Committee Request for Memorial Plaque: The Preschool Committee asked for permission to place a plaque at the Peace Garden naming the donor of this project. Gary suggested we have a policy stating that we don’t put names on church property. Gary moved and Jeff seconded to create the following Policy: “All donations to Bethesda Mennonite Church including money, labor and real property should be given in the spirit of generosity and grace that God has freely given us. In recognition of this, Bethesda will not place the names of donors, estates or memorials on church property to recognize individuals, families or organizations. Recognition of estate designations and gifts such as flowers will only appear in the bulletin and not be permanently attached to any church property.” Motion carried.

9. A. Discuss Accumulated Vacation Policy: Tabled at this time. B. Request from Enole Ditsheko: Last year Enole Ditsheko requested money for people from

his church in Gabarone, to attend training in Canada. They have 6 candidates and would be happy if we could fund $625 Canadian which is about $575 US money per person. Norm Yoder’s Sunday school class sponsored this request last year. It is to attend a Canadian Mennonite University for a 2 week class. Arlin said they will talk to their Sunday school class and they will determine how many they can send

10. Committee Appointments: Form Nominating Committee: Jeff will contact the people who are currently on this committee. He is missing a representative from the Board of Service and Outreach. Current members include: Church Council Representative Jeff Peters, Chair; Ken Bergen, Jennifer Buller at large members; Lavonne Braun, Board of Education Representative; and John Huebert, Board of Business Administration Representative. They will meet the first part of December and should have only 6 positions to fill. The following positions have been filled:

• Mennonite World Review Reporter-Margaret Hiebner • Visitor Staff-Margaret Hiebner • Scattered Seeds Correspondent-Margaret Hiebner • Chronologist-Kathy Friesen, Mark Friesen • Bulletin Board Supervisor-Kerri Pankratz • Parliamentarians-Marc Peters, Norm Yoder

11. Reports: A. Board of Deacons: The December 5, 2013 “Conflict in Church Workshop” was good and

there is interest in doing the same workshop here as well. Bethesda has received a $30,000 anonymous gift designated for Technology. Arlin will recommend to Church Council to develop a special fund for the Technology Project so that the anonymous gift money can be transferred into the fund before the end of the year. A Deacon Retreat will be held on January 4, 2014. Arlin suggested having the Church Council meet with the Board of Deacons that morning and the Deacons would continue meeting in the afternoon. Church Council appreciates the invitation to meet with the Board of Deacons from 9 to 1:30 at the Aurora Leadership Center on January 4, 2014. We will be observing Communion on Epiphany Sunday, January 5, 2014.

B. Board of Education: Planning for the Bethesda Bible Series with Shane Claiborne on February 8 and 9, 2014. Also are working on the budget.

C. Board of Business Administration: the Board would like for Monroe to attend their meeting quarterly. Daphne was present at the last meeting and talked about the performance review process and gave suggestions. Justin Ott is gathering information and they will plan to meet with the employees prior to the next mtg. Two projects have been presented to the Board, namely the Office Renovation and a request to redo the upstairs Sunday School Room. It is frustrating to the board as how to deal with requests, how does the board approve the requests or do they need to go through the entire church and prioritize what needs doing. Who makes that decision? There is a need to start doing some of the projects each year. They should have a list of items that need to be done. We discussed how do we get to the point of giving freedom to do what needs to be done in the church, instead of doing only what we think we can afford to do? Steve said he would be happy to come to the Board of Business Administration to not focus only on the cost but to focus on what needs to be done. We should develop a plan of what needs to be done and the time frame for doing them. When the plan has been developed it needs to go in front of the congregation. Steve said he would help present the plan to the congregation so they know what the needs are.

D. Board of Service and Outreach: 525 Mission Mosaic books were ordered, but could only get 25 because there are no more copies being made. Pastor Jim will work on incorporating the missionaries and service people on Sunday mornings.

E. Website Committee: This Committee is no longer needed as the project is complete. Jeff asked if there are office hours listed on the website. Cindy will check and add them.

F. Employee Handbook Committee: Daphne received information David Boshart from the conference and will keep working on this.

G. Technology Management Committee: Will be formed soon.

12. Next month’s meeting will be held Wednesday, December 18, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.

Arlyce closed with prayer. Church Council Chair, Steve Michel Church Council Vice Chair, Jeff Peters Church Council Secretary, Arlyce Friesen

MINUTES CHURCH COUNCIL Bethesda Mennonite Church Henderson, Nebraska December 18, 2013 PRESENT: Steve Michel, Church Council Chair; Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair; Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary; Daphne Hall, Congregational Moderator; Cindy Friesen, Congregational Secretary, Shar Doell, Board of Business Administrative Representative; Arlin Hiebner and Laura Steingard, Board of Deacons Representatives, Royce Janzen, Board of Education Representative, Gary Buller, Board of Service and Outreach Representative and Pastor Jim Voth. 1. Steve called the meeting to order and Jeff shared a devotional about patience in waiting for a

pastor. Jeff finds he is not patient and is working on that. His reference to patience is found in Hebrews 5: 11. There is certainty of God’s promise to us. Jeff then led in prayer.

2. Jeff moved and Arlin seconded to approve the November 26, 2013, meeting minutes as written. Motion carried.

3. Agenda Additions: 3B. Remind everyone of January 4, 2014, meeting. 3C. Donor Recognition Policy. 7. Discussion and approval for a Wild Game Feed in the Fellowship Hall. 9A. Approve the Offering Schedule. 9B. Financial addition from Penny. 3B. Steve reminded us of the January 4, 2014, joint meeting with the Church Council and Board of Deacons at the Aurora Leadership Camp in Aurora. We are to let Arlin know this week if we will be attending. The scripture and agenda will be sent out the week before. During this time we want to look at what we do with the information from the Journey Wall conversation. 3C. Church Council approved the new Donor Policy via emails this past month.

4. The Sunday school class Arlin and Laura attend has agreed to pay the tuition of $850 for two people from Enole’s church in Gaborone to attend a Peace Seminar at Canadian Mennonite University in Winnipeg. Royce moved and Laura seconded to approve this Sunday School project. Motion carried. Steve will let Enole know.

5. Approve auditor for next year’s church audit: Daphne moved and Jeff seconded to appoint Jay Dee Janzen to prepare the audit. Motion carried.

6. Approve Maternity Leave Request: Gary moved and Arlin seconded to approve the maternity leave wording in Andrea Wall’s 2014 MOU (approved at the 10-8-2009 Board of Deacons meeting and the 10-27-2009 Church Council meeting). Motion carried.

7. Wild game feed request this year is similar to last year’s request. It was sponsored by the Young Men’s Bible Study group in the past and supported by the Board of Deacons. They request the use of the Fellowship Hall and kitchen and will open it up to those in the community. It will be held sometime in February. If they are able to secure a speaker this will need approval at that time. They had a wonderful response last year, and feel it is a great way of involving people in the community. Cindy moved and Gary seconded to approve this meeting. Motion carried.

8. Approve Agenda for Annual Meeting: Daphne will ask young people to entertain the younger children with movies, etc. so all teachers can attend the meeting. We will approve the Agenda as orally presented knowing there will be some minor changes. Shar moved and Laura seconded to approve the Agenda. Motion carried.

9. A. Offering Schedule: A second offering for the Benevolent Fund will be added at the close of service on January 5, 2014. We discussed the wording of the present Offering Schedule and specifically about the MC USA offerings and using a portion of those offerings for local church funding. Gary moved and Royce seconded that we change the Offering Schedule to state the MC-

USA offerings will go for that purpose only. The funds to support Bethesda members in Voluntary Service and Bethesda members working as staff and counselors at Mennonite Summer Camps will be taken from the local church offerings. Also the fund for subscription costs for various publications; such as “The Mennonite”, sent directly to members, will be taken from the local offerings. We will eliminate the sentence “An additional amount is retained in order to fund the annual budgets of the Bethesda Board of Service and Outreach” (they have their own budget). If you designate MC USA it will go to MC USA. Motion carried.

B. Penny received a letter of a $5,000 gift which the donor suggested using for purchasing more round tables and/or more chairs for the Fellowship Hall, $1000 to the Radio Fund, and possibly to purchase more music. Shar suggested round tables and more chairs for the $4,000. The Board of Business Administration will be the ones who make the purchases. Daphne moved and Arlin seconded to approve the purchase of $4,000 for round tables and Fellowship Hall Chairs and putting $1,000 into the Radio Fund. Motion carried. MC USA for online giving: MC USA is looking to make changes due to credit card compliance issues. We are able to make contributions to Mennonite Foundation and MC USA through this website. We discussed if we were open to paying an annual fee for this site. Gary moved and Laura seconded that we are open to paying them a fee in the amount $50 to $100 per year for this fee. Motion carried.

10. Review Church Operating Budget: The proposed budget is about the same as last year. Cindy moved and Royce seconded to approve the budget as proposed. Motion carried.

11. Reports: A. Board of Deacons: The Sabbatical Policy will be added. This is not something we have had before and will implement. This conversation will be done at the Annual Meeting. The Preaching Schedule has been approved. We are happy for Pastor Andrea who will have things in place to help Pastor Jim by the time she takes her maternity leave. More congregation members will be asked to help during this time. The Deacons have encouraged Pastor Andrea to pursue the Ordination process. We will have guest pastors, a short term interim pastor if needed and Pastor Sherm is still consulting during the maternity leave. The Deacons want to be diligent and not tax our staff. B. Board of Education: Time was spent discussing the Bible Series with Shane Claiborne and Pastor Andrea sharing the Technology Website and appealing to the younger generation thru Bethesda’s website. C. Board of Business Administration: The board decided to accept the Wolf Drywall bid of $3,412 to patch, skim coat, texture, and seal the kitchen ceiling. The board believes this is the best option to fix current peeling and seal the underlying ceiling without disturbing it. Church Council members asked about fixing the fan above the stove to help remove some of the moisture from the dishwasher. D. Board of Service and Outreach: Members enjoyed caroling at the Henderson Care Center in place of their meeting. E. Employee Handbook: The group will meet at the end of the month. F. Technology Management Team: Members are Gary Buller, Brad Janzen and Arlin Hiebner and have just begun getting organized. A $30,000 gift was pledged to the church to be used to update the technology. This group will be proceeding with various projects. Suggested purchases include: live video streaming, new video camera, updating TV’s and DVD players in the Educational wing, some updating in the Preschool area, digital camera, interactive white boards and overhead projector. We have some infrastructure needs that will allow us to do more after these needs are met. Wi-Fi is needed upstairs. We will move forward with purchasing cameras and monitors, which were approved earlier.

G. Nominating Committee: Jeff said it won’t be a complete member board but will have a quick meeting in the next few weeks. Discussion was held concerning our current policy allowing for nominations from the floor at the annual meeting. This may not fit with the new process being used to fill Board and Committee positions. We have a Nominating Committee made up of a person from each board giving us a good cross section. Jeff will put a notice in the bulletin this Sunday to invite anyone who is interested in serving on a committee to call Jeff. We will have a ballot that says “Affirm all” or they can mark “Affirm” or “Do not Affirm” for each position separately. Gary moved and Shar seconded to remove the sentence from the Policy stating that we will take nominations from the floor. Motion carried. We will change the policy to say “We will accept nominations prior to the ballot being printed.” 12. Steve’s meeting with the Board of Business Administration: Steve said he thanked the members for their time, and hoped to clarify their responsibilities and to relieve their stress. The board should not worry about the lack of funds, as the Church Council and the congregation have the responsibility to fund expenses. A decision to go ahead with a certain project should not be based on a concern for funding, but based on the need. The Business Board’s responsibility is to maintain the facility and not worry about how it will be funded. We need to communicate to the congregation what things need to be done and agree on a funding plan. With a building this size and age there should be a fair amount of work that needs to be done annually or we will get into trouble down the road. We need to prioritize what needs doing and put that amount into the budget. Steve said he did not tell them what needed doing, that’s their job. Some members of the Board of Business feel that we don’t have enough people to pay for the things that need doing. We don’t use this whole building because we have so few members. The council suggested that we should begin carpeting rooms that need carpeting and start improving Sunday school rooms. We want to think of office staff as professionals. Our office is not functional and attractive. Pastor Jim said our incentive is giving the first fruits, the first portion to God, how do we give to the church? We need to give from our heart, and we give first to God and then take care of the rest. God will bless us with shalom, community, and caring one for another. Our giving should be done with joy. We want to incentivize people to give from their heart; it is because of our faith that we give. We give out of thanksgiving for what God is doing in our lives. We could state what our budget is for the year and have everyone give accordingly. We gave up the dues and assessments. The Business Board could identify two projects a year which would be included on their annual budget, but the congregation needs to be aware of the need. The congregation needs to have the conversation of what we need to do with the facility. Pastor Jim said stewardship is also about generosity and caring for one another. It will take a while to change the way of thinking of the Board of Business so they feel free to spend the amount that is budgeted. Steve suggested we should change the name of the board to Facilities Team or Facilities Board. Sherm has suggested that our boards might be called teams. Steve said he would encourage our thoughts about these issues and we will continue to have conversation. Some of this discussion should be presented at the Annual Meeting. Facility needs that are identified by the Business Board should be communicated to the congregation for help in prioritizing the resolution of these needs.

13. Jeff closed with prayer

Next meeting January 27, 2014, @ 8:00 p.m. (instead of January 28, 2014) Steve Michel, Church Council Chair Jeff Peters, Church Council Vice Chair Arlyce Friesen, Church Council Secretary

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