TABLE OF CONTENTS Annual Meeting January 29, 2017 – 9:30 a.m. Light of Christ Lutheran Church 3976 County Line Road SE, Delano MN 55328 Page 1 Roster of Council and Committees 2 Agenda 3 Minutes of January 31, 2016 Annual Meeting 4 Pastor Bruce Kuenzel 5 Director of Music – Sue Quist 6 Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministry – Rachel Bash 7 Volunteer Coordinator – Brenda Schroedl COMMITTEE AND GROUP REPORTS 7-8 Christian Education Committee, 3 years through Grade 6 8-9 Christian Education Committee (YEC), Grades 7-12 9 Community Life Committee 9 Evangelism Committee 9 Library Committee 10 Mission Committee 10 Mutual Ministry 11 Property Committee 11 Small Group Ministry 11-12 Stewardship Committee 12 Worship and Music Committee 12 Altar Guild 13 Birthday Party Ministry 13 Women of Light of Christ 14 Women of Light of Christ Financial Report 15-16 Youth Fund Financial Report 17-20 Treasurer’s Report 21 Membership Statistics
Transcript
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Annual Meeting
January 29, 2017 – 9:30 a.m.
Light of Christ Lutheran Church3976 County Line Road SE, Delano MN 55328
Page1 Roster of Council and Committees
2 Agenda
3 Minutes of January 31, 2016 Annual Meeting
4 Pastor Bruce Kuenzel
5 Director of Music – Sue Quist
6 Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministry – Rachel Bash
7 Volunteer Coordinator – Brenda Schroedl
COMMITTEE AND GROUP REPORTS
7-8 Christian Education Committee, 3 years through Grade 6
8-9 Christian Education Committee (YEC), Grades 7-12
9 Community Life Committee
9 Evangelism Committee
9 Library Committee
10 Mission Committee
10 Mutual Ministry
11 Property Committee
11 Small Group Ministry
11-12 Stewardship Committee
12 Worship and Music Committee
12 Altar Guild
13 Birthday Party Ministry
13 Women of Light of Christ
14 Women of Light of Christ Financial Report
15-16 Youth Fund Financial Report
17-20 Treasurer’s Report
21 Membership Statistics
22 Constitution and Bylaws Update Notes
23-24 ELCA Stewardship “Where Does My Offering Go?”
25 Bishop’s Annual Report
CHURCH COUNCIL & COMMITTEE ROSTERJanuary 24, 2016 to January 2017
Light of Christ Lutheran Church, Delano, Minnesota
CHURCH COUNCIL(3 year terms)
Term expires Jan. 2017:Janine Holter, V. Pres.Dan LangnerStacy VanCura, Pres.Adam Wortz, Sec’y.
Term expires Jan. 2018:Bonnie Lotzer
Term expires Jan. 2019:Bruce BeltrandTim LeonardRobin OlsonAndrea QuandtJohn Schroedl
TREASURER:Erin Johnson
COMMITTEES:(Committees are 2-yearterms, with exceptionsnoted.)
CHRISTIAN EDUC.Preschool - Grade 62nd Tuesday, 6:00pmCouncil Rep: Andrea Quandt
Term expires Jan. 2017Holly CapleBillie ChockCaron IhdeSusan LarisonRobin OlsonAndrea Quandt
Light of Christ Lutheran Church - 3976 County Line Road SE, Delano, MN 55328
1. Call to Order: 2. Devotions: Pastor Bruce Kuenzel3. Approval/Additions to the Agenda4. Minutes of the January 31, 2016 Annual Meeting5. Pastor Report6. Committee and Group Reports
A. Christian Education Committee, 3 years through Grade 6B. Christian Education Committee (YEC), Grades 7-12C. Community Life Committee D. Evangelism CommitteeE. Library CommitteeF. Mission CommitteeG. Mutual MinistryH. Property CommitteeI. Small Group MinistryJ. Stewardship CommitteeK. Worship and Music CommitteeL. Altar GuildM. Birthday Party MinistryN. Women of Light of ChristO. Youth Fund Financial Report
7. Treasurer’s Report8. Proposed Budget for 20179. OLD BUSINESS10. Elections
A. Church Council and CommitteesB. Synod Assembly DelegatesC. Nominating Committee
11. NEW BUSINESSA. Constitution Updates
12. Adjournment with Lord’s Prayer
2
Annual Congregational Meeting MinutesLight of Christ Lutheran Church
3976 County Line Road SE, Delano, MN 55328January 31st, 2016
Meeting called to order by Jeff Rubertus at 9:30am.Devotions by Pastor Chris Hagen.Approve Agenda – Additions include Call Committee Update and Computer System Update. Tim Current made a motion to approve, John Zerull seconded, motion passed.January 25th, 2015 Council Meeting Minutes – Darrell Egly made a motion to approve, Sue Fink seconded, motion passed.Pastors Report – Located in the Annual Report pamphlet. CYF Task Force Update – Presented by Annette McClelland. Job description was reviewed and the job posting plan was presented. Call Committee Update – Presented by Sue Fink. Site profile draft is complete and under review.Treasurer’s Report – YTD 2015 report in pamphlet. Highlights reviewed by Jeff Rubertus. Wes Aylsworth made a motion to approve, Steve Crosby seconded, motion passed.Proposed Budget for 2016 – Presented by Jeff Rubertus. Tom McKay made a motion to approve, Brian Harstad seconded, motion passed.Old Business
1. Computer System Update was presented by Adam Wortz.
Elections – Additions to the ballot include:Synod Assembly – Bridget Mielke
Stewardship – Penny Bailey, Billie ChockNominating – Holly Caple, Laurie Langner, Bob GielauMission – Brenda SchroedlProperty – John McClelland, Mike BoyackChristian Ed (7th-12th grade) – DeeAnne PalanChurch Council – Tim LeonardWorship and Music – Dee Beilke, Julie ImamuraCommunity Life – Sandy Schansberg
Heidi Wuerger made a motion to approve, Laura Jaunich seconded, motion passed.New Business
1. Constitution updates presented by Pastor Chris Hagen. Updates include general compliance to ELCA guidelines, electronic notification of meetings, Treasurer as officer, council action via electronic means, and financial contribution as a requirement for membership
a. C10.01.02 – Added electronic means as an acceptable form of communication in addition to mailing, Darrell Egly made a motion to approve, Bob Gielau seconded, motion passed.
b. C8.05.01 – Accept change to add financial contribution of record to membership minimum requirements. Darrell Egly made a motion to approve, Penny Bailey seconded, motion passed.
Closing Prayer and AdjournRespectfully submitted by Adam Wortz
3
REPORT OF THE PASTORBruce Kuenzel, Pastor
Although I have been here at Light of Christ only for the last four months of the year there are still several accomplishments that I’d like to note in my annual report.
The first is that I am continuing to put together names and faces. That’s my highest priority for my first year here at Light of Christ. I’ve made a good start but I still have a long way to go. So I encourage you to participate in the “Getting to Know You” gatherings in this coming year. It will be a great help to me in getting to know you personally.
The second accomplishment is that we’ve reaffirmed the strategic objectives that were identified during the pastoral interim. The Holy Cow survey, which was taken during the interim, identified four priorities: 1) stronger worship services; 2) greater generosity; 3) inviting, welcoming, and incorporating new members, and especially young families, into our congregation; and 4) healing those broken by life circumstances. The Council, at its retreat in October, affirmed these priorities and added one more: a vibrant, transformative youth and family ministry. These five objectives will focus our time, energy, and resources in the next several years, with the first objective – strengthening our worship life—receiving the most attention in 2017.
The third accomplishment is that we’ve started to move toward a more collaborative model of leadership between myself and the congregation. “Shared leadership” is the watchword for how we want to make decisions and live out our mission and ministry as a congregation. We will continue to move into this model of leadership in the year ahead.
Finally, Cynthia and I want thank you for the warm and gracious welcome you have given us. We appreciate it immensely, and we give thanks to God for you, and for our partnership in the Gospel.
Grace and peace always,
Pastor Bruce Kuenzel
4DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
Sue Quist
Light of Christ Lutheran ChurchThe Year in Review…..Music in 2016
2016 was a Musically Wonderful Year at Light of Christ:
37 Worship Days in 2016 included Special Music from congregation members. The choir sang 12 times in 2016. Praise Team played 8 Sundays in 2016. Special Music included singing and playing 12 different instruments. Special Music included music spanning 200 years. 11 Sundays of Special Music were by youth under the age of 17.
God has richly blessed our church with much talent. Thank you for sharing your gifts in God’s glory.
The Adult Choir continues to sing a wide variety of music. The choir is about 15 strong this year…with church members joining for special Sundays. Future Goals for the Adult Choir in 2016:
1. Continue our exploration of a wide variety of music.2. Invite congregation members to join us to sing for as much or as little as they wish to commit to.3. Sing a larger work that utilizes soloists and instrumentalists.
Lessons and Carols brought the opportunity to bring together instrumentalists, solo singers, Adult Choir, 2-piano 8 handed music, and brass solos, vocal solo and solo piano by confirmation students. This was a memorable worship day at the church.
Sue Quist Director of Music
5Director of Children, Youth and Family Ministries
Rachel Bash
The disciple Paul once wrote to Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). Throughout my life, it has consistently been children that have taught me most about forgiveness, brave faith, and unabating compassion. Here at Light of Christ, we want our kids to be fearless in their faith, in their search for justice, and in their expressions of kindness and generosity towards others so that they can be leaders and peacemakers in their lives at school, in Delano, and in the world. We accomplish this goal by providing avenues and resources for faith development at all stages of their life, from Sunday School, to Confirmation, to High School Ministry.
During my first few months as the Director of Children, Youth, and Family at Light of Christ, I decided to prioritize better engaging two specific age groups: High Schoolers and 5th/6th graders. I sensed that these two groups have been lacking age-appropriate ministry and attention, and I hope that through retreats, leadership and service opportunities, and fellowship time, I can get these kids more involved in their faith and community life at Light of Christ.
5th and 6th graders are at a time in their lives when Sunday School is becoming less relevant and Confirmation is just on the horizon. For the past few months, 5th and 6th graders have been stepping into a leadership role among the children by ushering and handing out children’s bulletins before worship services. In January, the 5th and 6th graders participated in an afternoon-long retreat to further team building, fellowship, and leadership skills. I hope to make camp an important element of faith-building for this age group by offering a week of summer camp made specifically for them. These kids are at a critical point in their faith lives where they move away from asking “what?” and move toward asking “why?”, and I hope t0 equip them with the tools and resources to begin to find answers.
Creating a safe space that is fun and inviting is a top priority of mine when it comes to developing programming for middle schoolers and high schoolers. For example, Light of Christ hosted a lock-in for 28 High Schoolers in October that was a great success. In November, 20 middle and high schoolers participated in a Sleep Out that raised awareness for homelessness in Minnesota. Combining elements of fun and fellowship with learning and service opportunities is a necessary component of ministry when engaging these age groups.
In order to better serve the High School youth of the congregation, the starting time for Confirmation on Wednesday nights was shifted to 6:30-8pm so that fellowship specifically for High Schoolers can follow Confirmation at 8pm. High School Fellowship is a time for high schoolers to build community in the Youth Room through games, devotions, and worship. Continuing to provide engaging opportunities for our older youth is paramount to keeping these kids active in their faith and in Light of Christ. 17 High Schoolers went on last summer’s Mission Trip to New Orleans, and I hope to double that number in 2017.
Thank you to the entire congregation for being so welcoming this past fall as Pastor Bruce and I have entered the community. Your support of me and the Children, Youth, and Family Ministries at Light of Christ is so appreciated, and it has been a joy and privilege to work with the fantastic Children’s Education and Youth Education committees as we develop programming for our children and youth. I look forward to growing in continued fellowship in Christ in 2017.
Peace,Rachel Bash
6Volunteer Coordinator/Office Assistant
Brenda Schroedl
- Connect members to service opportunities at Light of Christ in ways that use their spiritual gifts. - Along with committee input, briefly summarized & published each committee's role at Light of Christ. The purpose of this was so that members not familiar with what each group does might have a better understanding and be able to match up their interests and gifts as we prepare for the annual meeting and look for more volunteers. - Worked with Pastor Bruce and Penny Bailey to update the Usher's Manual so that responsibilities are more consistent and clear. We will also be offering several opportunities for brief "training" in January so that anyone who is interested in serving in this way will feel comfortable. We are hoping to attract a wider range of volunteers, including youth and families with children. - Formation of a "Getting to Know You" Steering Committee. This group will organize and recruit volunteer hosts for dinner/dessert gatherings with Pastor Bruce, Cynthia and 4-6 other members, then maintain an ongoing schedule.
Respectfully submitted by Brenda Schroedl
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE – 3 years through Grade 6
Committee Members: Rachel Bash (starting in Aug), Sonja Nelson (ending in Aug), Tara Olson, Laura Jaunich, Shannon Durick, Susie Larison, Caron Ihde, Billie Chock, Holly Caple, Andrea Quandt, Robin Olson, Amber Becker
We are so thankful to those members who served on the committee in the past year. Everyone is busy, so we are so appreciative of the time these Light of Christ members have given!
In 2016, we had a goal to do 3-4 big service projects each year through our Sunday School. Our first was on Valentine’s Day, where we made fleece tie blankets, and donated them to Camp Noah through Lutheran Social Services. Camp Noah is a camp for kids who have experienced a natural disaster. Sunday School students, with their families, showed up during the Sunday School hour on Valentine’s Day and helped cut and tie these blankets. We received very generous donations of cash and materials from the congregation and quilters to help us make these blankets. Thank you!
Around Easter, we did our second service event which was filling Easter Baskets for the food shelf. Each class did a few Easter baskets with donations from the congregation. These were all donated to the food shelf for families to take for their children.
At the end of the Sunday School year, we had kids and their families paint flower pots and plant flowers. The children also helped plant pumpkin seeds for the youth pumpkin patch. These flower pots were then delivered to area nursing homes for the residents.
We welcomed Rachel Bash the first week in August, and she dove right in. Vacation Bible School was held July 31-August 3rd. This year’s theme was Cave Quest through Group Publishing
and we were able to partner with multiple churches to share decorations, and pass them on to other churches when we were done. It was held in the evening from 5:30-7:30 to accommodate working parents. We found that we had more volunteers and participants by offering the evening camp. We had 60 kids register with about 52-55 kids attending each night. We received $230 in donations for attendees.
We needed a new Sunday School curriculum as our current curriculum “Witness” was discontinued. We formed a subcommittee who chose the “Whirl” lectionary curriculum through Sparkhouse. This curriculum is a three–year curriculum that follows the Revised Common Lectionary and helps kids understand the church year and its seasons. It also contains fun videos each Sunday which are shown during large group time. So far, we have had good feedback, and it is easy for teachers to prep, follow, and teach. As part of this new curriculum, we needed new Bibles for all Sunday School Students. The younger children received hardcover story Bibles, and the older children received study Bibles which can be used for confirmation as well. Due to overwhelming donations from the congregation, ALL of these Bibles have been paid for. Thank you SO much!
We kicked off the 2016-2017 Sunday School year with Rally Sunday which included games, prizes, bounce house, face paint, and food (through the Community Life Committee). We had approximately 149 children registered for Sunday School. Because of the increasing cost of Sunday School curriculum and to help with the church’s
7 continued on next page
continued from previous page
overall income, we charged a fee of $15 per child and $30 maximum per family. A technology tool we have been able to use is that through the Whirl curriculum, teachers can look up their lesson online from home. This has been a blessing for us all! Another change for 2016-2017 is that each grade is in one room this year, and each grade has 4 teachers that team teach. This has provided great flexibility for the teachers, and also provides for more dynamic classes and discussion!
We are grateful for our Sunday School teachers! Our 2016-2017 teachers are:o 3/4/5 years olds: Laura Lundquist, Tara Olson, Katie Horeis, Elisa Carson, Emily Lindgren, Julia Eglyo K: Mike Boyack, Rachel Halbersma, Shannon Durick, Brenna Duricko 1st Grade: Amber Becker, Cynthia Kuenzel, Mathea Schafer, Laura Jaunicho 2nd Grade: Billie Chock, Diane Schmidt, Kelly Froehle, Caron Ihdeo 3rd Grade: Kim Wortz, Kristy Klaphake, Sarah Spanier, Kristy Cardinalo 4th Grade: Holly Caple, Andrea Quandt, Robin Olson, Jodi Lindo 5th Grade: Loree Kinney, Gina Neeo 6th Grade: Maria Menz, Britta Reierson, Anne Rothstein, Sydney Stroblo Large Group Opening/Music: Rachel Bash, Shannon Durick, Marcus Hanson, Laurie Brown
Christmas Programs: This year the Christian Education committee formed a subcommittee to plan and put on the Christmas program which was held on December 18th at 8:15am and 10:45am. We decided to tell the story of the birth of Jesus through traditional Christmas songs and readings of scripture. We found a free simple script and music online, and had all of the costumes already from previous years. We are trying something new, and had families sign up for which service they wanted their child to perform at. This made it easier for families so they only had to attend one service. We have approximately 50-60 children signed up for each service. Thank you so much to all of our volunteers!
Respectfully submitted by Laura Jaunich
YOUTH EDUCATION COMMITTEE (Grades 7-12)Committee members: Annette McClelland, Anne Rothstein, DeeAnn Palan, Peter Grant, Bruce Beltrand, Jennifer Fink, HS youth representative
2016 was a year of renewal and rebuilding. In August, we welcomed Rachel to Light of Christ as its Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries. With a permanent, full-time staff member finally in place, we hope that the youth ministry will begin to take steps toward growth and revival.
In the first few months of the year, the youth began to sell coffee along with cinnamon rolls to raise money for the summer trips they were ready to embark on. Several students also helped with the Annual Spaghetti Dinner either by being servers, helping set/clean up, or doing the dishes. The youth were, and still are, eager to fundraise in order to lower the cost of their summer trips.
In January there was a retreat to Sugar Creek Bible Camp, about 10 High School youth went. Together they spent the weekend throwing snowballs, playing games, and growing together in their faith.
Culture Keeper meetings at the beginning of the year were about deciding who should be added to the group (noting that several youth had simply stopped showing up) in order to make the meetings more diverse. Many of us mourned the leaving of Per and Pastor Lee, but the Culture Keepers saw this as an opportunity to work hard during the transition to make the youths’ voices heard and to come together as a community rooted in resilience and faith.
During the summer, 17 High School youth, as well as 3 adult leaders and the interim Youth Director, participated in the Mission Trip to New Orleans, Louisiana. Here they broke into different groups to help the community around them. Half the fun was simply the bonding that took place to and from New Orleans with worship in hotel rooms to seeing the beauty of the country. 5 High School youth also went to Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp in Montana for an adventure week filled with rock climbing, kayaking, and connecting with God in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.
Towards the end of summer, Vacation Bible School took place. Along with the younger children, many High School and Middle School youth helped the adult volunteers. This was a great way to introduce Rachel to some of the children and parents at LOC during her first week here.
In August, Rachel accompanied 9 High School youth on their adventure to St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church in St. Paul for their annual Coptic festival, where we learned about their traditions and ate some good food. The summer mission trip
8continued on next page
continued from previous page
in 2015 was responsible for bringing our two churches together. The youth enjoyed getting to catch up and talk with their old friends.
Confirmation started off strong this year with 69 7th through 9th graders and 19 high school Junior guides. We are grateful for the parent volunteer support in this ministry as well! In the fall, there were 28 tenth graders that were Confirmed by Pastor Bruce.
Rachel has led and organized various other events for middle school and high school youth, such as a trip to Feed My Starving Children, a High School Lock-In, a Sleep Out to raise awareness for homelessness, and a day spent at the Soul Sisterhood Summit, a camp for girls.
The youth at Light of Christ are thankful to have many opportunities to be in fellowship and serve God together. We hope that 2017 will bring even more Christ-filled experiences!
Submitted by Isabel Fink12th grade Youth leader
COMMUNITY LIFE COMMITTEE
Committee members: Bonnie Czanstkowski, Anne Farniok, Heidi Goldbeck, Jennifer Grant, Angie Green, Kelly Harstad, Bonnie Lotzer (council rep), Melanie Paulson, Krista Reske, Tamara Schafer, Sandy Schansberg, John Zerull
2016 Activities for this committee:New Members: Assisting Pastor with welcoming and hosting the new members throughout the year including the orientation and welcoming Sunday, taking pictures of new members and their families and posting them in the church entrance.
Easter and Christmas mailings: Assisting as needed with selection and funding of this activity.
Additional funding from this budget go toward advertising (i.e. Easter and Christmas mailings to area residents) and an annual payment to the Delano Chamber of Commerce.
Respectfully submitted by Lona Jose, Chair
LIBRARY COMMITTEE
Committee members: Midge Amend, Sue Fink, Carol Heyen, DeeAnne Palan
The LOC library has been completely overhauled in the past five years, due to generous anonymous donations and the work of a loyal committee. This past year saw completion of a computerized cataloguing system, and labeling of categories of books on the shelves to make it easier for members to locate books of their interest. Funding of the library is not part of the church budget. Past donations have allowed the library to purchase new shelves, books and DVD’s.
Respectfully submitted by The Library CommitteeCarol Heyen, DeeAnne Palan, Midge Amen, Sue Fink
9MISSION COMMITTEE
Committee Members: Jessie Aylsworth, Holly Caple (Chair), Val Donahue, Jodi Lind, Brenda Schroedl, John Schroedl (Council Rep.)
Our mission for this committee is to support our church, our community, and all those in need through community outreach services.
2016 Initiatives and Goals
● NEW Buck-A-Chick program through the ELCA, ran through Lent Season. Paper chicks were available to purchase between services for $1.00. The money goes to third world countries to purchase actual chicks for those in need. Each person had the opportunity to color the paper chicks and hang them around the Narthex. $269.00 was collected.
● NEW Meal program. Mission committee set up a Meal Train (mealtrain.com) service to support our congregation in need. Congregation members interested in helping can submit their contact information for future use. Once we are aware of a need an email goes out to this group asking for meals on specific days. We supported one person in 2016.
● NEW Grocery Cart in the fellowship hall to encourage continuous giving of food and personal care items for Helping Hands Food Shelf and Love, INC.
● Committed to volunteering at Helping Hands Food Shelf twice a month, sorting and packing food as needed. Helping Hands Food Shelf is Delano’s local food shelf that supports those in need in Delano and surrounding communities. They are located in the basement of the Community Education building on Elm Street.
2016 On-going Committee Activities● Fifth Sunday Offerings. A special offering is offered on months that have a 5th Sunday. This year the
offerings went to: LOC sponsored missionary Karen Anderson, moving expenses for Pastor Bruce, and our Sister church in Nigeria.
● Love, INC donations. LOC supports Love, INC in many ways.○ 1% of all LOC offerings is given to Love, INC. ○ Support their Back to School Supply Drive in August○ Christmas Sharing in December. LOC is the drop off site for the donations given to Love, INC
clients. The next day these recipients come to LOC to pick up their donations.○ Many from our congregation volunteer at Love, INC’s two locations - Delano and Howard Lake.○ Helped support the restocking of the Birthday Ministry toy shelves with a Birthday party in
September for the congregation and Sunday School program.● Food Drives to support Helping Hands Food Shelf in Delano
○ ELCA’s Pack The Pews food drive in March raised 450 pounds ○ ELCA’s World Food Day in October raised 587 pounds of food in just one Sunday!
Respectfully submitted by Holly Caple
MUTUAL MINISTRY COMMITTEE
Committee members: Paul Ludwig, Rene Moen, Sue Schultz, Jinnelle Weis
This committee meets with the called staff (pastor) approximately once per quarter, or as needed, with the task of confidentially listening, encouraging and supporting.
Respectfully submitted by Rene Moen
10PROPERTY COMMITTEE
Committee members: Aaron Amdor, Mike Boyack, John McClelland (co-chair), Tom McKay, Brandon Mitchell (co-chair), Tom Sebelien (secretary), Dan Torfin, Adam Wortz (council rep)
2016 has been a busy but good year for the property committee. We did not experience any major issues this year. We continue to work to maintain and improve the campus and facility to serve the members and community.
Areas addressed by the Property Committee during 2016 include:
organizing a church wide work day furnace, well, and water heater repairs plumbing repairs general interior and exterior maintenance updating our LOC maintenance schedule, vendor list, and data base work on the long-term facility maintenance and replacement plan (i.e. roof, HVAC equipment) have an energy and lighting audit completed review contracts for lawn mowing and snow plowing
Some of our goals for 2017 include: strive to be more energy efficient (lighting, heating, and cooling) paint exterior of garage paint cross on top of steeple improve outdoor areas (volleyball, baseball, church grounds) new roof and HVAC equipment (3-5 year plan)
We are always looking for new members for the Property Committee. The committee is involved with performing or overseeing maintenance activities to maintain and improve our facility and campus. If this is an area that interests you, please talk to one of the members or come to a meeting.
Submitted by John McClelland
SMALL GROUP MINISTRY COMMITTEE
Members: Oda and Roland Carlson, Lisa Hemmer and Penny Bailey. Robin Olson council rep.
Worked with interim Pastors Dave and Chris to continue Adult Education. Added summer adult educ.classes. Helped Pastor Bruce start teaching our classes. Worked with the Stewardship Committee on the “Return to Macedonia” campaign. Continued the new book club. Put Peace and Justice on indefinite hiatus until there is more interest.
Respectfully submitted by Penny Bailey
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE
Committee members: Brian Harstad, Penny Bailey, Billie Chock, and Dan Langner (Council Rep.)
The primary goals for the committee this year included:- Promote Automated & Online giving options- Create Stewardship awareness & communicate needs & opportunities- Support increased giving to meet the 2016 budget commitment- Lead a successful fall Stewardship campaign which increases Stewardship understanding
The committee began the year with two new members and the need to maintain the church’s awareness of our giving levels to close the gap to our approved church budget for 2016. The church membership approved the 2016 budget with a shortfall in committed giving to planned expenses of over $30,000. The committee worked to
11
maintain awareness of the budget needs through the newsletter, bulletin and church service updates, including a new weekly bulletin status on weekly giving levels. We also promoted the new online Automated Giving system and encouraged members to move to this automated method. Use of that system has increased gradually through the year.
The 2016 fall Stewardship Program was titled “Rediscovering Macedonia”, which was an ECLA resource program focusing on the joyful spirit of giving. The program focused on 2nd Corinthians regarding the great joy and spiritual growth experienced by the church of Macedonia as they graciously gave beyond their means to support the early church. Thanks to the members who shared their own stories of stewardship and faith to
continued on next pagecontinued from previous page
help connect these messages to our own church life here at Light of Christ. The church has responded to the message and needs of the church. As of December 8th, 113 members/families have returned their faith commitment cards for 2017 for a total commitment of $327,000, which is an increase of 13% over the commitments for this past year. Combined with expected cash and other income, this is now only about $20,000 short of the 2017 budget goal, but we hope to receive additional commitments before completing the year. The church has also been closing the gap between 2016 income and expenses as we hope to end the year near a balance budget position.
The committee thanks the membership of Light of Christ for their continued support, gifts and service to the church. We have much work to do for God’s church going forward!
Respectfully submitted by Brian Harstad
WORSHIP & MUSIC COMMITTEEMembers: Dee Beilke, Brad Bruhn, Ken Chock, Cheryl Gielau, Janine Holter (council rep), Julie Imamura, Loree Kinney (co-chair), Jon Olson, Brad Pappas, Barb Russell (co-chair), Pastor Bruce Kuenzel, Sue Quist
What an adventure the Worship and Music Committee has been on this year. After the changes in purpose and function of the previous year, we have worked with other committees and the Council in planning, oversight and policy-making in the area of worship.
Worship and Music has implemented changes including a year-round worship calendar, committee meeting agenda (still a work in progress) and greater responsibility of the budget, including planning and oversight. As we work closely with Pastor Bruce to integrate all things involved with worship, hymn scheduling and advising council on issues related to worship, we continue to grow as a Committee to better serve Light of Christ, the Council and the Lord.
We are keenly aware that one of the top goals for Light of Christ is to “Deepen our sense of connection to God and one another through stronger worship services.” The committee will continue to make this its primary goal in the coming year.
The committee would like to thank Sue Quist, who has been instrumental (pardon the pun) in helping us understand the budget and the separation between committee and staff.
Blessings and Joy,Loree Kinney, Co-Chair, Worship and Music
ALTAR GUILDAltar guild began its duties on November 18, 1997. At present time, we have 10 members. We sign up quarterly using SignUpGenius. Our duties consist of preparing the communion table, setting up for baptism, caring for the banners, maintaining oil for candles, paraments and robes for the acolytes. We set up for the Christmas Eve candlelight service and the candelabras. The altar guild purchases the grape juice and communion bread from Coborns grocery store in Delano, and the wine is purchased from Delano Wine & Spirits, with all items being charged to the church. All other supplies were ordered from CM Almy company.
Kim Wortz and Kylee Amdor share the duties as chairpersons for altar guild.
The Light of Christ Birthday Ministry is in collaboration with Love, INC and will facilitate “shopping appointments” for persons that are referred to LOC from Love, INC.
LOC is responsible for securing donations for birthday supplies including – Birthday gifts appropriate for boys and girls ages 10 and under
o Suggested maximum cost per gift of $10.00
Gift bags, wrapping paper, bows, scotch tape, etc. Birthday invitations, paper plates, napkins, balloons, candles, favors, etc.
A “birthday party” was held in September to promote the ministry and solicit donations for the birthday store. This was a huge success! In 2016, the Birthday Ministry has provided birthday party supplies and presents for a total of 49 “shoppers.”
Respectfully submitted by Terri Reuter
WOMEN OF LIGHT OF CHRIST
Our purpose as Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and Light of Christ:
As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, society and the world.
Services and Events 2016 June 3rd - Green Lake Annual Quilt Auction…LOC Quilters donated $100 July 16th - LOC Women hosted The Golden Living Center Birthdays –Music-Sue Quist September - clean kitchen ranges November - Women of Light of Christ hosted the Advent Brunch at Wild Marsh, Buffalo, MN November - served coffee & pastries at Delano Community Thanksgiving Service Served three funerals Quilts donated to “Project Linus” Several quilts near completion for various organizations
God’s Blessings to all who answer the call to serve.Respectfully submitted by Ginny Iverson
YOUTH ACTIVITIES 4569.07Sugar Creek Retreat 450.00 525.00High School Lock-In 140.00Halloween Party 55.21Checks 21.12Food-Activities 58.96Transfer from Individual Accounts 642.59Interest 3.54
YOUTH ACTIVITIES 4569.07Sugar Creek Retreat 450.00 525.00High School Lock-In 140.00Halloween Party 55.21Checks 21.12Food-Activities 58.96Transfer from Individual Accounts 642.59Interest 3.54
2016 Member Deaths: Joseph Griffiths d. 1/24/16David Nelson d. 5/1/16Michael Czock d. 7/9/16Cheryl Thomas d. 10/10/16*please note: other funerals were held in 2016 for non-members
CONFIRMED – 10/30/16Emma Andreasen
Special FundsBeginning balance Income Expense Ending
Balance
5th Sunday 835.00 7,921.06 7,802.84 953.22
Capital Improvement Fund (503.73) 0.00 0.00 (503.73)
2016 NEW MEMBERS: 30Adult Members: 867Baptized Children: 277TOTAL MEMBERSHIP: 1144
21
Constitution and Bylaws Update Notes, Nov. 2015
ConstitutionItems in red and stricken through indicate items removed.Items in blue indicate items added.Asterisked * items are mandatory and cannot be reworded.
The additions and changes in Chapter 6 come out of congregations recently desiring to leave the ELCA. Clarification is needed for the steps to take.
Termination of a pastor’s call in Chapter 9 has added clarification.
C10.03 allows for announcing congregation meetings electronically instead of by postal mail where possible.
C11.01 includes the Treasurer as an officer of the congregation. Because the Treasurer has fiduciary duties and responsibilities to the church, the position is included among the officers.
C12.13 permits council meetings and decisions to be conducted by electronic means.
Bylaws
The bylaws are moved from the end to those sections to which they pertain, as recommended in the model constitution.
C8.05.01, (discontinuance of membership) added is “financial contribution of record” as stipulation for membership.
C11.01.01 under both President and Vice President, deleted are “unless the meeting decides otherwise.” Synod reviewer noted this is too vague, that there is no process for deciding when the President or Vice President does not preside over a meeting. Also, there is no process for anyone to conduct a meeting if not the President or Vice President.
C13.02.01 is deleted in entirety. The pastor ought not participate on the Nominating Committee since the committee recruits members to council, i.e. the pastor’s “supervisors.”
C13.04.01 removed from the responsibility of the Mutual Ministry Committee is authority for staff review and salary recommendations. Those tasks properly belong to the Personnel Committee.
C13.07.01, greater clarity and direction is given to the description of the Personnel Committee.
C13.07.01, the Missions Committee is separated from the Stewardship Committee.
Steps1. Nov. 2015, Council reviews and approves draft. 2. Dec. 2015, Dee Cole Vodicka (Executive Assistant to the Bishop, Minneapolis Area Synod)
reviews changes and sends comments to LoC council.3. Dec. 2015, if council agrees to Dee’s recommendations, revisions are made public to the congregation, C.17.01.4. Jan. 2016, at regular annual meeting, congregation votes whether to accept the changes. 5. Feb. 2016, submit final changes to the constitution for Mpls. Area Synod Council approval. 6. Jan. 2017, at regular annual meeting, congregation ratifies the changes and they become in effect.
