The Episcopal Church

of the Transfiguration

Lake Saint Louis, Missouri

Annual Report for 2016 and the

Annual Meeting of the Congregation

January 29, 2017

A Prayer for the Parish BCP 817

Almighty and everliving God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth, hear

our prayers for this parish family. Strengthen the faithful, arouse the

careless, and restore the penitent. Grant us all things necessary for our

common life, and bring us all to be of one heart and mind within your holy

Church; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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2016 Staff Members

Rev. Lu-Anne Conner, Rector

Nancy Day, Parish Secretary

Barry Luedloff, Music Director

Laurie Mercurio, Nursery

Diocesan Delegates

Jennie Kelly

John Purcell*

Claire Reynolds

Cathy Murphy-Maijer, Alternate*

Vestry

Rev. Lu-Anne Conner, Chair

Ron Howden, Senior Warden

Jon Sanders, Junior Warden*

Judy Ducar, Treasurer

Carrie Mares, Clerk and Secretary

Carolyn Giles*

Chuck Laney

Lisa Olson*

Kerry Quinlisk

Kerri Robertson

Peggy Sloan

Kathy Strautz

*Terms Expire

Ministry/Committee Contact Person

Acolytes Jeff Veenstra

Adult Forum Mary Drew

Altar Guild Louise Howden

Bible Study Paul Godt

Book Study Janet Morris

Buildings and Grounds Jon Sanders

Chalice Bearers Rev. Lu-Anne Conner

Children’s Chapel Alice Foster

Coffee Hour Paul & Sherri Richardson

Counting System/Training Bob Daniels

Episcopal Church Women (ECW) Rev. Lu-Anne Conner (ex-officio)

Eucharistic Visitors Rev. Lu-Anne Conner

Fall Fundraiser Paul Jokerst

Social Committee (was Fellowship) Jennie Kelly

Finance Committee Judy Ducar

Greeters Rev. Lu-Anne Conner

Lectors Rev. Lu-Anne Conner

Martha’s Ministry Judy Kirby

Men’s Club Steve Ducar

Ministry Scheduling Sherri Richardson

Music Ministries Barry Luedloff

Nursery Alice Foster

Newcomer’s Ministry Terrie Brittingham

Parish Website Paul Jokerst

Prayer Shawls/Knitters Carrie Mares, Janet Morris

Schnucks Escrip Program Judy Ducar

Shepherds’ Ministry(Caring for the Flock) Kerry Quinlisk

Stewardship Committee Bill Robertson

Teen Group Jon Sanders, Carolyn Giles

Ushers Rev. Lu-Anne Conner

Various Outreach Ministries

Bread for Life Rick MacIvor

Community Services Pam Fadler

Episcopal City Mission Pam Fadler

Laundry Love Paul Jokerst

LINC (Love in Name of Christ) Pam Fadler

Reading is Fundamental (RIF) Janet Morris, Bette Hammond

Support Our Troops/Patriot Packages Judy Ducar

The Lord’s Table (Motel Meals) Dawn Henry, Tammy Schuster

Third Tuesday for Seniors Pam Fadler

United Thank Offering Diane Cox

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2016 Annual Report to the Congregation of

The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration

Sunday, January 29, 2017

The mission of the Church of the Transfiguration is to be a Christian

community; Accepting and inviting all persons to share in worship,

witness and service as disciples of Jesus Christ in the world.

Table of Contents

Who’s Who for 2016 (a directory of contact names) 2

Agenda of the Annual Meeting 4

The Minutes of the 2016 Annual Meeting 5-6

Nominees for Vestry & Delegates 7

Rector’s Report 8-10

From the Parish Register 2016 10

Wardens Reports 11-13

Treasurer’s Report for 2016 14-16

2017 Budget 17-18

Stewardship Report 19-21

Music Ministry Report 22

Ministry/Committee Reports 23-37

175th Convention Report 38

Lines of Communication Chart 39

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Minutes from the 2016Annual Meeting January 31, 2016

The annual congregational meeting for Church of the Transfiguration was held January 31, 2016.

A total of 68 persons were in attendance.

Meeting was called to order by Fr Al Jewson at 10:35 am

Opening prayer: Fr Al Jewson led those in attendance in an opening prayer .

Minutes

The minutes from the 2015 annual meeting were presented to the congregation by Carrie Mares, vestry clerk.

A motion was made by Alice Foster and seconded by Dawn Henry to accept the minutes as presented. With

all in favor the minutes were accepted.

Acknowledgements

Alice Foster thanked the 2015 vestry and diocesan delegates.

A special thanks was given to outgoing vestry and delegates.

Vestry nominations

The nominating committee presented the slate for the vestry and delegates.

Four names were presented for three vestry positions. One name was presented to the congregation as a delegate nomination. One name was presented to the congregation as an alternate delegate nomination.

There were no nominations from the floor. Dawn Henry moved and Bill Robertson seconded the nominations

be closed. With all in favor the nominations were closed.

Ballots were distributed to the assembled congregants. Upon completion of voting, Paul Jokerst and Alice

Foster retired to tally the votes.

Ministry reports

Fr Al requested the members of Transfiguration read the ministry reports included in the annual meeting

package. He reminded the congregants that much prayer and thought has gone into the reports.

No questions were asked concerning any of the committee reports.

No remarks from committees or ministries.

Treasurer’s report

Judy Ducar, treasurer, presented the 2016 budget.

The treasurer made special note of the following items

The budget reflects Fr Al as our interim priest for 6 months and a new rector for 6 months. This is

reflected in the pension and health insurance budget items. A new item in the budget is the Building Mortgage. The mortgage payments will now come from the

general operating fund. There is also now a maintenance fund. This year’s budget also contains the cost for the search committee. This cost has been estimated at

$20,000. Another new expense listed in the budget is sabbatical expenses. This will be a fund for the future priest.

A question was entertained from the floor concerning the possibility of renting the rectory. At present the

rectory is empty and being repaired. Transfiguration was advised to retain the rectory until a new priest is

called.

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Carolyn Daniels asked why health insurance was eliminated. The insurance will be reinstated when a new

rector is hired.

Dawn Henry noted the 2016 Diocesan Convention is out of town and this is reflected in the higher expense

budgeted for convention attendance.

* note to correct to the budget date to 2016

Special presentations

Paul Jokerst made a presentation of our new website. Paul pointed out the exciting new features and

encouraged all members to the look at new website at home. Paul also noted that the Pastoral Care Ministry is now the Shepherd’s Ministry.

Tammy Schuster made a presentation for search committee. Tammy highlighted the parish profile which is featured on our newly updated website.

All search committee updates are posted on the website.

Peggy Sloan made a special presentation to Alice Foster our outgoing senior warden. The congregation

joined in thanking Alice for her service to Transfiguration. Fr Al noted that Alice Foster has been

instrumental in holding Transfiguration together during the past few years. Thank you, Alice!

Rector’s report

Fr Al drew attention to the updated parish records. Fr Al read the job description for the senior warden from the Vestry Resource Guide.

The senior warden is the rector’s warden. Fr Al noted that our outgoing senior warden, Alice Foster,

willingly gave herself to the congregation and as a congregation we are grateful. However, the new

senior warden will follow the Vestry Resource Guide job description.

Fr Al announced Ron Howden will be the new senior warden and Jon Sanders will be the new junior

warden. The junior warden will now chair the new Building and Grounds Committee. He will oversee the projects.

Bill Robertson will be the Stewardship chairman. Transfiguration will once again implement the Pony

Express Stewardship program.

Election Results

Fr Al announced the election results.

Cathy Murphy-Maijer will be the alternate delegate. Claire Reynolds will fill the delegate position. New vestry members: Chuck Laney, Kathy Strautz, Kerry Quinlisk

Closing prayer: Fr Al led the congregation in a prayer .

The meeting was adjourned at 11:50 am.

Respectfully submitted,

Carrie McEachern-Mares

Vestry Clerk

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Report from the Nominating Committee

The 2016 Nominating Committee was tasked with seeking qualified candidates for three

open Vestry seats (3-year terms), one Diocesan Convention Delegate (3-year term), and one

Convention Alternate (1-year term).

Nominees for Vestry

Chad Elledge

Jim Furgason

Tom Modde

Nominee for Diocesan Convention Delegate

Larry Hopen

Nominees for Diocesan Convention Alternate

Cathy Murphy-Maijer

Daniel Smith

Respectfully submitted by the 2016 Nominating Committee:

Lisa Olson

Kerry Quinlisk

Jim Furgason

Craig Curry

The Rev. Lu-Anne Conner (ex-officio)

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Rector’s Annual Report

January 29, 2017

Dear Friends,

New Beginnings

At this time last year I had just begun as interim priest-in-charge at Christ Church in Gardiner, Maine.

Christ Church was in the middle of a rector search, and I was in the middle of a parish search.

Meanwhile, the search committee at Transfiguration was just about to go “live” with its parish profile

and job listing for its next rector. Five months and several interviews later I received a phone call

from Ron Howden advising me that the vestry at Transfiguration had called me as its next rector, and

would I accept? It didn’t take long for me to say “yes,” and at the end of August Kate and I arrived in

Lake St. Louis to begin a new chapter in our own lives and in the life of this great parish.

Kate and I had no idea how warm and deep your welcome would be, which helped us make a smooth

transition into parish life and life in Missouri. While we’re still getting used to some of the local

cuisine, and learning to say “40” instead of “64,” and finding our way around the alphabet of

highways, we remain quite certain that this is the place that God means for us to be.

A Whirlwind of Activity

My first several weeks as your new rector were a whirlwind of meetings with ministry chairs, bringing

communion to shut-ins, spending time with as many of you as possible, and generally getting a feel

for how things work at Transfiguration. I experienced my first-ever Trivia Night, and was impressed

by the time and energy expended by an army of volunteers to make it such a success. A few weeks

later we were blessed with perfect weather as we celebrated the Feast of Francis of Assisi with an

outdoor Eucharist and pet blessing. On November 6th we gathered for All Saints Sunday, and I had

the privilege of baptizing Zachary Darden at the 10:15 service that day. On December 14th the parish

came together to participate in the Renewal of Ministry service, led by Bishop Smith, during which I

was “officially” welcomed as your new rector. During that service we all recommitted ourselves to the

ministry that we share in Christ’s name. Finally, the Christmas Eve services were a delight, including

the magical Christmas Pageant that Barry Luedloff directed at the early service. These are but a few

of the highlights that I will remember from my first few months as rector.

The Daily Life of the Parish

While highlights are important, much of the ministry of this parish is carried out quietly, persistently,

and faithfully from day to day. Whether offering nourishment and fellowship at Third Tuesday

luncheons, knitting prayer shawls, administering the chalice, meeting with teens, singing in the choir,

engaging in the work of the vestry, leading Children’s Chapel, greeting all who come to worship,

visiting the home-bound and those in hospital, delivering bread to those in need, and dozens of other

activities, the people of Transfiguration take seriously the ministries to which they have been called. I

encourage you to read the rest of the reports in this Annual Report, as I’ve only touched on a fraction

of what this congregation does.

Looking Back

I am completing my fifth month as your rector, and while five months is a relatively short period of

time, it has allowed me to make some initial observations about the parish. Transfiguration is a

relatively “new” community of faith, having first met together for services in September 1980; its first

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annual meeting was held on January 25, 1981. Over the past thirty-six years the tasks of the

congregation have changed, from struggling to survive as a small worshipping community, then

acquiring property to build a sanctuary and a later addition, laboring mightily to achieve parish status

in 2009, and more recently undertaking an intensive rector search while continuing to faithfully

worship and serve under the direction of interim rector Fr. Al Jewson.

What’s Next?

The Catechism in our Book of Common Prayer tells us that “the mission of the Church is to restore all

people to unity with God and each other in Christ” (BCP p. 855). All Christians are called to

communicate the reconciling love of God to others, by word and deed, so that our lives point to the

gracious things that God is doing among us, rather than focusing on our own agendas. In other

words, Christians are communicators, and it seems to me that communication needs to be a primary

focus for this particular time in our life together.

Communication

Communication can be thought of in all sorts of ways. For instance, what are we communicating to a

newcomer who has never before experienced Episcopal worship? We will certainly give that person a

warm greeting, but is he or she expected to manage a prayer book, hymnal, bulletin and

announcement sheets while trying to enter into our corporate worship? Perhaps he or she will keep

coming back to learn how we Episcopalians do things, but for many people that is simply too much to

ask. Are there ways that we can be flexible in presenting our liturgy while still maintaining our

identity as a “prayer book people”?

How well do we communicate with one another? How well do we know one another? Conversations

at coffee hour will only take us so far. There are folks who faithfully attend Sunday services at

Transfiguration but are not yet fully integrated into the life of this parish. Could there be intentional

opportunities to gather together in small groups, perhaps over a simple shared meal (kind of like what

Jesus did), where newcomers and those who have been here awhile can get to know one another

better? (Hint: the Rector would like some help with this).

In what ways do we communicate what’s going on in the parish? If you turn to page 39 in this report,

you will see the current Lines of Communication chart that informs the work of the Staff and the

Vestry. The chart is simply a way to organize and understand the many different facets of our

common life. Each Vestry member is assigned to one of the standing commissions of the parish (i.e.

Administrative, Buildings and Grounds, Stewardship, etc.) in accordance with parish by-laws. Each

Vestry member makes a monthly report to the Vestry about what’s happening in their particular area

of oversight. This internal communication helps the Vestry to keep current with parish life, allowing

it to respond more quickly to areas that need assistance.

In his sermon at the Renewal of Ministry service, Bishop Smith shared Archbishop William Temple’s

famous description of the Church: The Church is the only organization in the world that does not

exist primarily for its own sake. In light of this description, the bishop reminded us that our life

together as a parish is not finished until we look around and ask, “What is it in this backyard of ours

that needs Christ’s touch, and ours?” What are the needs that surround us? How might we

communicate through word and action the love that Jesus has for all sorts and conditions of people?

Curiosity, imagination and persistence are required (and will be given by the Holy Spirit if we but

ask) so that we are able to continue asking these questions and responding to what we find.

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Thank-you's

Parish Secretary Nancy Day works hard at preparing weekly bulletins and announcements, and

cheerfully handles so many other tasks that come her way; she has an intuitive pastoral presence

which puts people at ease. Music Director Barry Luedloff is a gifted musician; he and I work well

together, and I have appreciated his advice and suggestions as we continue to plan our way

liturgically through the church year. Treasurer Judy Ducar has been especially helpful in orienting me

to the financial practices and procedures of the parish, and always with unfailing good humor. It has

been a great delight to work with Louise Howden and the Altar Guild; Louise has a rare ability to

combine high standards with an infectious enthusiasm for her work. I have appreciated Jeff

Veenstra’s oversight and training of the acolytes, and his liturgical savvy has been invaluable to me.

Bill Robertson oversaw a successful stewardship campaign; Bill taught us that the words Monty

Python and Estimate of Giving can be used in the same sentence, and to great effect.

Finally, I owe a great deal of thanks to Senior Warden Ron Howden. Ron has gone out of his way to

assure my seamless integration into parish life, and continues to advise me with wisdom and deep

experience. Much of what he does on behalf of this parish is done quietly and behind-the-scenes, and

we all benefit from the skill and dedication with which he watches over so many aspects of our

common life. I am very pleased that he has agreed to serve as Senior Warden for another year.

Faithfully,

The Rev. Lu-Anne Conner, Rector

From the Parish Register for 2016

Baptisms Transfers In

Zachary Carl Darden Gary Sanders

Laura Sanders

Faith Collins

Burials Tyler Collins

Brad Young

Sally Ann Millfelt Mary Young

Nancy Rediger

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Senior Warden

January 2017

The Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration started 2016, the second year of our transition, under the

guidance of a very committed and capable Interim Rector with all knowing that the year would be challenging.

Your Vestry, with 3 new elected members, 1 new Delegate and new Alternate Delegate quickly set to work

ensuring that all required planning was on schedule and committing total support to the effort of the Search

Committee.

Eight Vestry members attended the 2016 Diocese of Missouri Leadership Conference in March at St Martins

in Chesterfield. The topic was “What the Modern Missionary Church can learn from the Book of Acts”. All of

us were pleasantly surprised that the world as outlined in Acts was very similar to our world today. One of the

underlining themes was that “the Church does not need people, people need to hear Jesus”. As follow up to

this conference, a Vestry Retreat was held on April 9th lead by our Interim Rector focusing on clarifying goals

for 2016, orienting leadership members to work as a cohesive team, most importantly planning for a smooth

transition and developing strategies for welcoming a new rector into our parish. The primary goal and outcome

from the retreat was to ensure a seamless and smooth transition.

To support and build on the ongoing Search Committee work, Vestry training was provided by Canon Joe

Chambers for all Vestry members at April’s Vestry Meeting. The role of the Vestry in the interviewing and

final rector selection process was reviewed in detail and how a successful transition would depend entirely on

the Vestry acting as one. As shared before, our Search Committee worked very hard over 10 months to

conduct a search worthy of our parish. The Search Committee shared in May with the Vestry the results of

their search and presented 3 candidates for consideration. The Vestry interview process with all candidates was

scheduled over very compressed 26-day period in June requiring Vestry members meeting with candidates

during a 3-day window during each of those weeks. After much discernment and deliberation, the Vestry

unanimously selected Rev. Lu-Anne Conner and commenced the calling on June 24th. Rev. Lu-Anne accepted

the offer and became our new rector effective September 1st, 2016.

Our parish, with a considerable sadness but anticipation of our future, bid Fr. Al a farewell after his last service

on August 28th. There was a great outpouring of appreciation with more than a hundred parishioners bidding

goodbye to Fr. Al and Deacon Danya, thanking him for his wisdom, guidance and certainly belief in our parish

during the past 18 months.

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This year has not been with some upsets. To the dismay of all, our church was broken into during the late

evening hours of Sunday April 25th. Extensive damage was done to windows, office doors, office furniture

with multiple pieces of computer equipment stolen. The Lake Saint Louis Police Department have an ongoing

open investigation into the incident but no individuals identified and no items have yet been recovered. Repairs

and replacement equipment have been completed in all areas. A church insurance claim was filed, accepted

and all repair expenses reimbursed less the $1000 deductible. The Vestry decided to investigate the feasibility

of a church security system to deter and protect against future occurrences. A Security Monitoring System was

approved by the Vestry and installed to protect critical areas in the church containing valuable assets and vital

information. This monitoring system will provide additional protection against future events.

Also, this year, negotiations were held at the request of St Charles County Public Water District #2 involving a

new city sewer line to be installed across the front our property. These negotiations involved an easement of

church land and reimbursement for disruptions and restoration after construction. Negotiations were concluded

in November with all legal documents signed and financial compensation made to the church. This

construction timing for this project will be either starting mid-2017 or perhaps early 2018.

An ongoing priority of your Vestry has been the continued improvement and strengthening of our lines of

communication between the Vestry and all ministry groups. The key to this communication is the alignment of

each Vestry member acting as a liaison to a group of ministries. This has been a 3-year effort and is shown on

the Vestry Lines of Communication Chart posted on the bulletin board. Every month each Vestry member

submits a written summary to the Vestry summarizing their Ministry’s ongoing activities and future planning.

These reports are becoming much more detailed and comprehensive permitting better coordination for all

functions. In turn this allows the calendar planning meeting to quickly identify and coordinate the scheduling

of all activities in the entire year. I encourage all members to visit the Communication Chart and see which

Vestry member is your important liaison contact.

Transfiguration entered 2016 in a stronger financial position than 2015 due to the positive stewardship

response from our entire congregation with improved forecasted income while balancing projected expenses

through the transition. Although we experienced some unanticipated costs, our financial position ended 2016

with an operating surplus allowing the replenishment of several reserve funds. This is all presented in the

financial report provided by the Treasurer and all parishioner are encouraged to review this important financial

information.

Finally, I would like to recognize and thanks a very dedicated leadership team and the entire congregation for

helping the parish through this final year of transition. Rev. Lu-Anne has worked very hard over the last 4

months, spending countless hours meeting with each ministry, pastoral visits to every home bound member,

guiding the staff and certainly getting to know and understand our strengths and weaknesses. I have shared

before that I believe we are starting a new chapter for the Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration. I am very

confident of our direction and look forward working with everyone during the very exciting upcoming year.

Faithfully submitted, Ron Howden, Senior Warden

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Junior Warden

The year began with many projects pending, notably the updates and remodeling of the rectory. Paul Jokerst

deserves my great thanks for getting the ball rolling with the rectory project. Paul was able to secure a

discounted rate through Lowe’s for new carpet in the basement. Jeremy Knestaut of The Home Artisan LLC

did a fantastic job on new kitchen tile, new laminate flooring on the main floor, and other projects. I personally

took on the updating of fixtures and door hardware throughout, and the rectory went from a dated 1990s look

to a more modern, brushed nickel and hardwood aesthetic. Peggy Sloan deserves a thank you for coordinating

the cleaning and detailing. Rev. Lu-Anne and Kate are quite thrilled with the rectory updates.

Thanks to all who participated in the spring cleanup days. Work was undertaken on the interior and exterior of

the church, and over thirty bags of leaves and overgrowth was hauled away to the St. Peters recycling center.

The church was also, unfortunately, the scene of a burglary in May. Unnamed scalawags broke a window in an

unused Sunday school room and absconded with computer equipment, televisions, and other items. Insurance

paid for the damage, which included the replacing of windows and doors. After this break-in, the vestry

decided to leave the exterior lights on overnight and investigate an alarm system.

Thanks as well to the volunteers who ensure the bedding plants and memorial garden are watered in the

summer.

In the fall, Hoff Heating and Cooling installed a new exterior air conditioning unit.

Renovations to the downstairs restrooms were begun to better suit the needs of parishioners and guests with

disabilities.

Several future projects await the new Junior Warden in the coming months. The mailbox post is cracked and in

need of replacement. The secondary ramp by the sacristy needs to be replaced as the wood is in disrepair and

spongy. Even though we have ADA-compliant access via the narthex, we are required to have a second access

point from the parking lot. Finally, Norm Fadler, Transfiguration’s resident wood artisan, has crafted wooden

racks for the prayerbooks. These need to be assembled and stained, a project a hardy group of handy people

could tackle on a Saturday.

It has been my honor to serve on this Vestry for the last three years and this year as Junior Warden. I am

indebted to Ron Howden for keeping me apprised of ongoing needs and offering his organizational magic. I

will continue to offer up my time and talents as a member of the congregation. I am grateful for the

opportunity to serve this church.

Faithfully,

Jon Sanders

Junior Warden

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“The one who sings . . . prays twice…” (St. Augustine) Looking back at 2016 . . . September 2016 marked the beginning of my 10th year as your parish’s

Music Director. It also marked the beginning of working with our new Rector, Lu-Anne. What a blessing

both of these things have been to me personally.

Of course, my thanks to each of you, for singing from the seats in the congregation! KEEP SINGING

so we can continue to make a truly “joyful noise” into the many coming years!

Our Parish is blessed to have each wonderful musician gracing us with their gifts of music. MY PERSONAL

THANKS… to those who have offered their musical gifts this past year , to each and every per son who

has participated in providing special music.

MUSIC GROUPS & MUSICIANS: Adult Sanctuary Choir / Ecumenical Choir (adults & students 18 years and older)

Adult Hand Chimes Ensemble (adults & students, now 12 years and older)

Children’s Chapel Choir (children attending Children’s Chapel or the 10:15am service)

Celebration Choir (adult singers who gather , rehearse and sing at specific celebrations)

Special admiration… to our very dedicated r ingers Sally Klaskin and Judy Kirby (and thanks to Dana

Delibovi for volunteering to sub when needed)!

Along with this, my thanks to John Hess and Joe Hess for offering their piano and organ skill at various times

this past year. Please encourage these two as they develop and offer their gifts of music to our parish.

STATISTICS:

Transfiguration’s adult Sanctuary Choir sang during10:15am Mass throughout the year. They participated

in this year’s shared Thanksgiving Eve service at Trinity – St. Charles, combining both vocal choirs.

The Ecumenical Choir of Lake Saint Louis (the Ecumenical Choir) sang the National Anthem at the final

home game of the St. Louis Football Club (Soccer), to the largest crowd the franchise had ever experienced

(+ /- 8,000).

Several of our younger parishioners offer their musical gifts during various worship services.

Thanks to the participating children and youth of the Christmas Eve Pageant for a great job in sharing the story

of Christ’s birth at the 4:30pm Christmas Eve Mass! A special treat was including “visiting” children as the

multitude of “fluttering” Angels! My thanks to all the adults backstage who helped the children and youth

present the pageant. This never works without each of the adult volunteers.

NON-PARISH RELATED MUSIC:

We continue to offer use of our facility to the Concert Arts Association, both for regular rehearsals and for

concert venues. Transfiguration’s facility is their weekly rehearsal home, Monday evenings during September

through May.

I would enjoy speaking with anyone who is able to contribute to our Music Ministry, so if you have any

questions, please see me! Meanwhile . . .

. . . be healthy, and remember to sing, pray and praise! See you at the next rehearsal!

Barry K. Luedloff – Music Director / barry.luedloff@transfigurationchurch.org

Music

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Ministry Reports

Acolyte/Servers

The ministry of acolytes exists at the heart of our worship services. The ministry itself, the vestments, the

titles, and the duties they perform in assisting a priest to prepare for Holy Eucharist are directly tied to almost

two thousand years of history. Thank you to everyone who has served in the ministry over the last year.

Bob Daniels

Mary Drew

Pam Fadler

Alice Foster

Carolyn Gordon-Giles

Dawn Henry

Ann Ivory

Kaleik Jokerst

Paul Jokerst

Judy Kirby

Paul Kirby

Abigail Robertson

Bill Robertson

Jack Robertson

Jon Sanders

Jack Taliaferro

Renick Taliaferro

Jeff Veenstra

Mary Wagner

Altar Guild

In 2016, seventeen parishioners were part of the Ministry of the Altar Guild including our new member, Dawn

Henry. Each week these dedicated and responsible members have prepared all things necessary for the

Celebration of the Eucharist and, if needed, for any other Sacraments and Offices.

Under the guidance of our new Rector, Rev. Lu-Anne, came some changes in the preparation for the Worship

Services. Each team on the Altar Guild was eager to adjust to these new guidelines and preparations were

done without a glitch.

A welcoming change came for the Clean Up of our Worship area and the polishing of the Silver and Brass.

These tasks, which are done twice a year (Christmas and Easter) in the Nave and Sanctuary areas were divided

among the parishioners who signed up to help the Altar Guild. The response was heartwarming and a big

“Ah! Ah!” moment. Again, thank you to all of you who made these tasks so much easier. Same can also be

said for the Hanging of the Greens, couldn’t have done it without you all!

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This year the Altar Guild added the weekly responsibility of preparing the Communion Kits for the Eucharistic

Visitors. A special thank you to Alice Foster who although not a member of the Altar GuiId, prepared kits

during my absence in the summer months. In addition to the Communion Kits that were donated, three more

were purchased using the Altar Guild Special Funds. Speaking of which, 2016 was a great year for our Annual

Fundraiser, we sold seventy-seven (77) Gift Certificates to Daniel’s Farm for a profit of $385. We use these

funds for “extraordinary” expenses related to the Altar Guild. “Extraordinary” like cleaning of the chairs in

the Nave, purchasing Communion Kits, linens and/or any articles needed for the Worship and other

Sacraments and are not part of the Altar Guild regular budget. We hope to get all your support in 2017 as we

already know that we will rely on these Special Funds to replenish and beautify our Church. On a last note,

please know that Daniel’s Farm has also been a contributor to all our Church wide fundraisers efforts for many

years.

All the members of the Altar Guild deserve a special thank you for all they do during the year. In 2016, we

were also very grateful to Judy Ducar, Alice Foster and Judy Kirby for their seamstress skills in sewing linens

for our Worship Services and Communion Kits. Thank you also to Mary Ruth who stepped back this year but

is always willing to lend a helping hand. Fay Wehmeyer continued to support our Ministry with her

knowledge as she has done over many years.

The members of the Altar Guild are deeply committed men and women dedicated to serving our Lord. The

work is done efficiently and reverently by all to make this Ministry run smoothly. We would welcome new

members to be part of our Ministry: if you like to be part of a team (total 2 or 3 members) and divide the work

the best way that fit your schedule, prepare for the Worship Services, once or twice in a three-month period

and prefer the “quietness” of serving, this most important Ministry is for you. If you are interested please talk

to Rev. Lu-Anne, Louise Howden or any member of the Altar Guild. You can also indicate your desire to do

so on the Stewardship Time & Talent sheet. Training is provided and you will be part of a team. Also, if you

are interested in doing only the Set Up or the Clean Up for the Worship Services, because of travel or schedule

but not all the steps, do not hesitate to talk to us. We are always in need of helping hands.

Thanks to you, members of the Altar Guild, your commitment and desire to serve and help at all times makes

this Ministry so special.

Faithfully yours,

Louise Howden

Members of the Altar Guild 2016

Rosemary Bagin Roxane Jablonski Sherri Richardson

Theresa Brittingham Judy Kirby Carol Rushing

Margaret Chopra Sally Klaskin Jennifer Rushing

Carolyn Daniels Carrie Mares Janice Trendley

Dawn Henry Karen Modde Jeff Veenstra

Louise Howden Paul Richardson

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Bible Study

We meet on Wednesdays at 3:00 pm at the church. We use the lectionary scriptures for the coming Sunday as

a guide. On the beginning of the church year, the First Sunday of Advent, we started Year A of The Revised

Common Lectionary. All are welcome. Rev. Jim Erdman, Fred Tiliinski, Mary Ellen Antonio, Mike Wiejacz

and Paul Godt make up the group. We keep Mary Ellen in our prayers as she cares for her husband John.

Paul Godt

Bread for Life Ministries

The Bread for Life Ministry has been an ongoing ministry for about 7 years and is a small outreach program

that touches lives with bread and pastries that are picked up at the Panera Bread Company Community Café in

Clayton and then distributed to the following facilities: Our Lady’s Inn, Defiance, MO (a home for abused and

unwed mothers and their children); The O’Fallon Senior Center; Church of the Transfiguration as needed;

Local fire fighters and public service personnel in the Defiance/New Melle area. Note: Some of the bread

supplied to Our Lady’s Inn is redistributed by them to other Our Lady’s Inn facilities.

Because of the efforts of all the volunteers, we are able to provide bread and pastries that are picked up at the

Panera Bread Company Community Café in Clayton and then distributed to these groups. We incorporate a

rotating schedule to divide up the responsibilities throughout the year. Bread is picked up on an every other

Monday schedule.

It is a joy and a blessing to know that our efforts are helping a broad spectrum of need.

Big thanks goes out to the volunteers; Steve Ducar, Dawn and Bill Henry, Don and Bette Hammond, Bob

Stewart & Bud Jablonski, Carolyn Giles, Marty Mares and Rick MacIvor. Thanks to all who have volunteered

their time and resources to help with this ministry.

If you feel you would like to offer your time to assist in this ministry, please contact Rick MacIvor for

additional details.

Respectfully submitted,

Rick MacIvor

636-398-5251

Rmac13@centurytel.net

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Camp Phoenix

Transfiguration sent 8 campers to Camp Phoenix the week of July 24th--July 30th. Once again it was a

wonderful experience where the campers enjoyed several new activities this season along with our regular

program. This year (2016) Camp Phoenix hosted 88 campers & 33 staff members.

Available funds to help defray cost for parents was $1728.00. The parents of our campers & Camp Phoenix are

deeply grateful for our continued support of this wonderful ministry. The breakdown of where the money came

from is as follows:

Pancake supper- $631.00

Mouse Race allocated- $500.00

Car wash- $464.00

The goal each year is for the church to provide one third of the cost per camper. The camper should provide

one third of the cost by holding fundraisers & the parents are responsible for the final one third.

Mark your calendars for next year's week of camp, July 30th - Aug. 5th. Campers be sure to tell your family

and friends how much fun you have at camp & invite them to attend in 2017.

A note to our grandparents. Did you know your grandchildren that do not belong to Transfiguration are

welcome to attend camp at the same reduced cost as our campers? For discount eligibility campers are required

to fundraise. Pam Fadler

Children’s Chapel

This has been a year of transition and growth for Children’s Chapel. Although several of our leaders from the

past few years stepped down over the summer due to other commitments, we had several new volunteers from

last year’s Ministry Fair, so we have still been able to maintain full coverage. Our current Chapel Leaders are

Bob Daniels, Mary Drew, Alice Foster, Karen Modde and Tammy Schuster, and our Assistants are Cathy

Murphy-Maijer, Kelly Murphy-Maijer, Sue Stabenow, Marsha Thompson and Jan Trendley. (It should be

noted that Karen Modde and Sue Stabenow regularly attend the 8:00 service and then come back to help with

Chapel on their assigned days!) We would also like to acknowledge Kari Cornelius, Jennie Kelly and Claire

Reynolds for their work as leaders and assistants from January through May.

The best news, however, is the recent growth in attendance of the children. With 3 children having “aged-out”

of the nursery during the year and a new family now attending quite regularly, we actually have 10

Transfiguration children eligible for Chapel, and in the past few months our attendance has been ranging

between 4 and 7 each Sunday – and we actually have had 9 of them here a few times. This is an encouraging

scenario as opposed to the usual 1 – 3 children we experienced at the beginning of the year. I have been told in

the past that a church goes through “cycles’ of age groups in terms of their youth programs, so hopefully we

are at the beginning of a new “cycle”.

We also offer a special thanks to the parents for making this a priority in the spiritual development of their

children!

We intend to set up a meeting with Rev. Lu-Anne and the Chapel volunteers after the Ministry Fair to discuss

the “curriculum” portion of Chapel moving forward. Alice Foster

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Coffee Hour

Coffee Hour is a ministry of hospitality. It has been a weekly event for people to gather, to visit and to indulge

in coffee, tea and a light snack after the second service each Sunday morning. In 2016 the Coffee Hour

ministry was expanded to include the first service, and now first service attendees also enjoy meeting for

coffee and conversation afterwards in the Narthex. All members are encouraged to sign up to lighten the load

for the current volunteers.

Thank you to all those who served in this ministry in 2016:

Rosemary Bagin Mary Drew Alice Foster

Jeanette Hollman Larry Hopen Jennifer Kelly

Matt Munro John Purcell Claire Reynolds

Paul Richardson Sherri Richardson Carol Rushing

James Rushing Jennifer Rushing Tammy Schuster

Peggy Sloan Dan Smith Kathy Strautz

Tom Wagner Henry Wasmer

The Lord’s Table

Six years ago, we approached the Vestry for their approval and blessing to begin a new ministry that would

have us bringing a hot meal to homeless individuals at the Budget Inn in Wentzville on the second Monday of

each month.

Seventy-three second Mondays and over 2,300 meals later, we have come to the realization, after much prayer

and reflection, that this ministry has served the purpose God intended and it is time to listen and be open for

the direction that the Holy Spirit is moving us toward next.

We are celebrating the gifts this ministry brought to so many and feel fortunate that we are members of a

church that encourages living the gospel out in the world.

Thank you again for supporting this ministry through food and money contributions, helping hands and

prayers.

Dawn Henry & Tammy Schuster

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Fall Fundraiser

We brought back Trivia Night for our Fall Fundraiser in 2016 after trying our hand at Mouse Races for the

previous two years. The event was held on September 16th, and thanks to the planning team, the volunteers at

the event, and all those who attended, we experienced a fun-filled and very successful event. We sold 28

tables, provided 30 raffle items, and raised $7601.72!

We also added something new to the event this year. After seeing the success of the Plinko Board that had

been supplied by the Mouse Race company the year before, Mark Schuster and George Kirby built one for us

that is now the property of Transfiguration for use at future events.

The Trivia Night planning team consisted of Terri Brittingham, Jessie Clawson, Chad Elledge, Alice Foster,

Carolyn Giles, Louise Howden, Paul Jokerst, Cathy Murphy-Maijer, Jennifer Rushing, Becky Trier, and we

congratulate them for a well-planned and very successful event. We also wish to offer a special thanks to

those who volunteered at the check-in table, as judges and emcees, as raffle ticket sellers, as managers of the

technology or running the games and Plinko; and a special thanks goes out to all of you who did such a great

job of recruiting friends and family to join us for the event; it really made a difference!

So –believe it or not - it’s now time to start working on our 2017 Fall Fundraising Event. The hall has already

been secured for Friday, October 13th (no we aren’t kidding) so get it on your calendar now! If you would

like to be part of the planning process, please contact Alice Foster. We will start enlisting volunteers for the

2017 committee at the Ministry Fair and will plan an organizational meeting early in February to determine

our co-chairs and the type of event. One thought has been to alternate years between Trivia Night and Mouse

Races, but we have also heard some people say we should try something totally new. So if you have any

ideas to contribute, then watch for announcements soon to attend an initial planning meeting. We can always

use new hands on deck and new ideas! See you then!

Respectfully submitted by the 2016 Fall Fundraiser Team

Laundry of Love

Please accept this report regarding the Laundry Love Ministry for the 2016 Annual Report.

This new ministry has continued to grow since we first received the grant for this joint venture with Trinity

Episcopal Church in St. Charles. The first Tuesday of every month, one or two members from each church

gathers at the StarCrest Laundromat located in St. Charles where we wash and dry the clothes of those who

may need a little assistance. This ministry is not only designed for the homeless but those who may be

struggling to make ends meet.

Laundry Love is a ministry that began at an Episcopal congregation in Ventura, CA and slowly but surely,

it’s spreading. Now more than 70 churches, mosques and synagogues around the country have adopted the

practice and we are proud to be a part of this ministry.

To date, we have washed and dried almost 400 loads of laundry for those in need. Each month this ministry

continues to grow and we are currently looking to expand to a laundromat in the Lake St. Louis area. This

will allow us to help those in St. Charles as well as Lake St. Louis.

Faithfully,

Paul E. Jokerst III Tammy Schuster

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Martha’s Ministry

From time to time, needs arise in the congregation for help in preparing food, such as following surgery,

injuries, births or deaths in the family. It is the call of our Martha’s Ministry group to provide such help.

If you request a reception for a funeral, contact Rev. Lu-Anne Conner and she will contact Martha’s Ministry

to prepare for the funeral reception.

How You Can Help: Currently, the Martha’s Ministry has approximately 19 volunteers ready to help but they

are always looking for new volunteers. Volunteering would include helping provide the support mentioned

above and would be based on an individual’s schedule and availability.

Rosemary Bagin Dorothy Harrell Darci Hillyer Fran Caradonna Ann Ivory

Jodie Sanders Roxane Jablonski Carolyn Daniels Joan Schmidt Bette Hammond

Terri Brittingham Judy Ducar Fay Wehmeyer Deb MacIvor Pam Fadler

Karen Modde Margaret Chopra Judy Kirby Janet Morris

Men’s Group

The Men’s Group was organized to serve the Church family and community while strengthening our faith,

learning and enjoying our fellowship as men in the church. Our aim was to encourage the men of the

congregation to come together in fellowship and service. Over the years we have struggled to foster growth,

attract new members and determine who or what we want to be. We have not folded our tent and gone

away. We are in a period of reassessment and our service projects will be on a case by case basis, as needs

arise, and dependent on the availability of volunteers.

During the past year Mother’s Day flowers were sold and the Star Spangled BBQ was a huge success. Our

service project was to assist a parish family moving.

Steve Ducar

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Newcomers Ministry

Welcoming new individuals and families is the responsibility of our Newcomers Ministry. We do that by

providing them with information about the many activities and ministries at Transfiguration. In addition we

include other information on the Diocese of Missouri, the Episcopal Denomination and the Anglican

Communion.

During 2016, we made visits with the following eleven families.

Lisa Smith, sons, Jacob and Joey

Diana Shaw

Michael McKenna and Chad Elledge

Earlene Clapp

Brad and Mary Young

Michael Mendenhall

Gayle Jennison

Dorothy (Dot) Weimer

Michael Wiejaczka

Patricia (Trish) Dunn

Tammy and David Wasem

It is good to report that a number of these new members are active participants in a variety of church activities.

Last Fall I decided it was time for someone new to lead this ministry. I am happy to tell you that Terri

Brittingham stepped forward. I plan to continue working with her and the other members of our Newcomers

Ministry which includes:

Carole Price

Andrew Bartlett

Kari Cornelius

Jeanette Hollomann

Jessie Clawson Rosemary Bagin

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Various Outreach Ministries

This is the thirteenth (13) year for a formalized Outreach Program.

Food Pantry

Transfiguration supports the pantry located in the LINC St. Charles County facility, in Wentzville. We chose

to collect items not covered by SNAP/Food Stamps. Working with their management we identified eleven (11)

items required for good hygiene. Tooth paste, toothbrushes, floss, laundry soap, dish soap, body soap,

shampoo, diapers, razors, toilet paper, and feminine hygiene products. Each month we collect an identified

item for that month and one of our twelve (12) volunteers deliver the items.

Our Lady’s Inn in Defiance

For Thanksgiving we donated gift cards for staff to shop at their local store of choice. This year was our 3rd

year helping with their Thanksgiving.

LINC St. Charles County

Gift cards were purchased & distributed through LINC allowing the recipients to purchase items they

would like to prepare for their Thanksgiving dinner. Our gift combined with other contributors allowed

LINC to help 85+ families celebrate Thanksgiving.

In June we purchased food for lunches to help feed the children out of school for the summer.

We also made a monetary donation to this program.

During July & August our church collects school supplies and delivers the items before school starts.

Before Christmas we delivered 56 hats, 4 head bands, 102 gloves/ mittens, 22 scarves, 41 pairs of socks, 12

pairs of slippers for a total if 237 items to be distributed by LINC for the local children in need.

Episcopal City Mission (ECM)

Reading is Fundamental (RIF) - On the second Tuesday of each month, our RIF volunteers went

to the Lakeside Detention Center & gave the students a choice of two or three books. See RIF

report.

Birthday Party- This was our eighth year for the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) to sponsor

the birthday party in June for the kids in detention.

Christmas in July- This was our first year for trying this concept, our gift to ECM was $677.00.

Chaplains Request- Each month we collect current calendars, playing cards, and journals to be

issued by the chaplains upon request from the kids.

Gift Wrapping- Several volunteers attended the Christmas Gift Wrapping party.

Community Support

Lake St. Louis Lions Club donated $1500.00 to our Outreach Program to be used at our discretion.

Services Hosted by Transfiguration for Members & Community

Identified items are collected to support our troops ( see report)

Life Line Screening scheduled 2 events in our facility this year. We have been working together since

2008.

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Be Fit Health Service Inc. 17 members took advantage of this service and received their flu shot

in September.

Third Tuesday- A free lunch is served along with three hours of social time for our seniors in

our church & the community. ECW sponsors this ministry. See Third Tuesday report.

Coat Drive- This was our 7th year for participating in this program held in January each year.

Laundry of Love- Transfiguration shares this ministry with Trinity in St Charles. See Laundry of

Love report.

Within Our Church Family

In addition to our Outreach, we also assisted members of the parish with their Thanksgiving

dinner.

The Rector used discretionary funds to assist members with their financial needs.

Patriot Star Packages—Supporting Our Troops

In 2016 we were able to ship over 1500 military appreciation packages to our deployed military around the

world. In March we also did a packing of over 400 dozen cookies to send to our deployed men and woman.

We received many emails thanking us for all we send.

With the support of the Missouri National Guard and the cooperation of Scott Air Force Base, Ft Leonard

Wood and Jefferson City, we have been able to send packages to various deployed units from Missouri and

Illinois. This year we have also received several requests from Unit Commanders to send packages to their

units. These are young men and women away from home in a foreign country, many risking their lives for our

freedom. These packages show we care, appreciate, and support them.

Although many items were donated, we rely on grants from businesses and donations from individuals

to cover the cost of shipping. Grants were received from Boeing and Express Scripts. Donations were

received from Harmonie Church in Innsbrook and Transfiguration. We also held our 2nd annual fundraiser

with Sam's Club that provided about 90% of the food items that are shipped.

The American Legion of Missouri unanimously passed a resolution recognizing Patriot packages as the one

organization to receive support from its 44,000 legion members and auxiliaries.

At Transfiguration we began selecting a specific item needed each month and posted it in the weekly bulletin

and monthly newsletter. Many items were generously donated, enabling us to pay for postage to ship to more

units.

We will continue supporting these men and women in 2017. How can someone help?

Volunteers to pack are always needed. We meet usually the second Friday of the month at the National Guard

Armory in Warrenton from 9 am to about 10:30 am.

Seamstress – all our items are placed in a simple draw string bag to be mailed. All materials and instructions

are provided.

Donations – our website patriotpackages.org lists all the items we send. Items can be left in the bin in the

narthex. Cash donations can be mailed or made on our website.

Judy Ducar

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Prayer Shawl Ministry

The Transfiguration Prayer Shawl Ministry formed in 2016. This is a ministry of quiet service; we knit shawls,

the shawls are blessed, and then we trust that the spirit will lead each shawl to the person they are intended to

embrace. The prayer shawl ministry had fifteen prayer shawls blessed during 2016.

Knitting is love, looped and warm. Each prayer shawl is a gift. A gift of our love, time and prayers for our

fellow parishioners. The prayer shawls we knit are simple; however, each shawl contains almost 14,000

stitches. Each stitch a prayer filled with hope and love for our church family members. Shawls are distributed

to parishioners as a warm, tangible reminder of our prayers for them.

The prayer shawl ministry always has room for new members. We meet the first Sunday of the month between

services for a knit a long. We use this time to knit together; weaving together a community with our hearts,

hands and yarn. Whether you knit, crochet or would love to learn we will enjoy having you in the

Transfiguration Prayer Shawl Ministry. Carrie Mares

“You created every part of me,

knitting me in my Mother’s womb.

For such handiwork I praise you.

Awesome this great wonder.”

Psalm 139; 13-14

RIF Report

On December 21, 2016, Lakeside Detention Center closed their doors and the young people who were living

there have been relocated to other facilities or have returned home. Our last RIF distribution was on Tuesday,

Dec. 13, and we were able to place five books in the hands of each of the twelve students who were awaiting a

return to their homes on Dec. 21. The remaining books will be distributed by the Lakeside Reading Specialist,

to the students who were placed at Marygrove Children's Home in Florissant.

At the present time there are not any concrete plans for a RIF distribution at the new facilities. Any remaining

2016 Transfiguration budget dollars donated to Episcopal City Mission for RIF, will be used for the students

as Episcopal City Mission chaplains see fit. A very special thank you to everyone from Church of the

Transfiguration who donated books, calendars, playing cards and helped distribute books at Lakeside

Detention Center over the course of the years we were affiliated with this very special ministry.

Janet Morris and Dawn Henry

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Sshnucks Escrip Program

Since 2007 we have been a participant in the Escrip Program. In 2016 we received $249.61.

It is a very easy way to donate to Transfiguration. Simply present you card to be scanned before checking out.

We receive from 1% to 3% of your grocery purchases with no additional charges added to your bill and

payment can be made with check, cash or credit/debit cards without affecting any cashback or air miles

normally earned.

The earnings from Escrip have been used for our music program and to help with some repairs in the church.

If you do not already have a card, consider picking one up at the local Schnucks store. Invite friends and

neighbors to sign up also. And remember to scan your card each time you shop. You will be donating to

Transfiguration each time you do.

Judy Ducar

Shepherd’s Ministry

The mission of our Shepherd’s Ministry is to coordinate compassionate caring to the Transfiguration

community through prayer, action, and encouragement; respecting the dignity and confidentiality of those we

serve. Some of the services we will help with are providing meals, making calls, respite care, transportation,

resource referral, and grief support.

The primary duties of the team leaders, or “shepherds,” are to keep in touch with each family, and pass their

needs along to the appropriate ministry leaders, then follow up with the family to make sure that needs are

being met.

During the past year, we have developed twelve flocks which hopefully include all families in the parish. We

will be doing some rearranging of these lists, to assign new church members and hopefully bring new

shepherds onboard, in the near future.

You should have been contacted by your shepherd at least once during the past year. If you have not, or do not

know who your shepherd is, please contact Kerry Quinlisk, and we will make sure you are on our lists! With

the growth of the parish family, some people may not have been assigned to a flock, and we want to make sure

everybody is included!

Kerry Quinlisk

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Social Committee

The Social Committee (formerly known as Fellowship Committee) had a very busy year! Luckily, we have

many people on the committee (thanks to last year's Ministry Fair) so many hands made mostly light work! In

February, we helped Bob Daniels and some kids with the Pancake Supper to help raise funds for Camp

Phoenix. This summer, the Social Committee donated funds to help with sprucing up the flower beds and rock

area outside of the church! After all was completed, the curb appeal of our church was greatly improved! Then

in August, we had a Farewell Celebration for Father Al - many folks were present to help thank him for all he

did for Transfiguration Church during our Pastoral Search. Next, in September, we had a Welcoming

Celebration for our new priest, Lu-Anne, and Kate. We had another great turn-out as everyone was excited to

welcome our new rector!

Next, in October, the Social Committee hosted the Blessing of the Animals with a Mass on the Grass. Treats

were served, animals were blessed and tails were wagging! We started the New Year with our annual

Christmas Brunch on Epiphany Sunday since it had to be postponed in December due to weather. Over 80

people enjoyed the food and beverages. Sweet treats were brought by many parishioners and everyone seemed

to have a great time socializing and eating in spite of the cold weather outside! Although the year has been

very busy, it has been rewarding and enjoyable! Jennie Kelly

Social Media

Transfiguration had a lot of material to work with over the last year: a packed Lent/Easter schedule, the last

stages of the Rector Search, Father Al’s final weeks with us, our big fall fundraiser, Rev. Lu-Anne’s first

weeks with us, Social Media Sunday, the Blessing of the Animals, Rev. Lu-Anne’s Renewal of Ministry and

several Advent/Christmas posts.

Our Facebook page has 279 followers (do YOU follow us on FB?). We were not as actively engaged on

Twitter and Instagram as in years past, but we plan on correcting that in 2017.

Paul Jokerst continually updates our website. Please remember two important areas on our website: a prayer

request section and an online giving section.

As always, Jon Sanders and Carolyn Giles will be posting a variety of things on social media, and we’re happy

to include your pictures and stories.

Carolyn Giles

Teen Group

The Teen Group’s regular 3 members meet once a month with the group leaders. Our philanthropic project

last spring involved donating books to the children at Our Lady’s Inn and making a monetary donation to RIF.

On October 30th, the teens visited the St. Louis Islamic Center’s Open House. We had a terrific tour of the

facility and some interesting discussion on the way home.

We anticipate finishing the final chapter of My Faith, My Life: A Teen’s Guide to the Episcopal Church

during our January meeting. At that point, the group leaders will meet with Rev. Lu-Anne on how to move

forward with the group.

Carolyn Giles

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Third Tuesday

In 2016 we hosted 326 guests. This was our thirteenth year feeding & entertaining seniors in our congregation

and community. We cancelled two events due to weather and voting. Our average monthly attendance is 33.

Our guests continue to support this ministry with monetary donations, homemade desserts and bingo gifts.

Because of their generosity and the volunteers donating some luncheons each year, we have been

self-supporting for the past couple of years.

Volunteers are listed by years of service:

Pam Fadler- 11

George Kirby- 10

Judy Kirby- 10

Paul Kirby- 10

Hank Wasmer- 10

John Purcell- 9

Larry Hopen- 9

Mary Ruth- 8

Rosemary Bagin- 7

Terri Bringham- 3

Linda Long - 3

Anna Scorsone - 2

Cathy Murphy- Maijer- 2

Chuck Laney - 1 alternate

Chad Elledge - 1 alternate

This ministry is supported by the Episcopal Church Women (ECW).

Pam Fadler

United Thank Offering

It has been a very good year for UTO! For the Spring ingathering we collected $674.14 and for the Fall we

collected $904.00. This brings our 2016 total to $1578.14. Many good deeds can be done with this kind of

thankfulness!!

Thank you one and all. Diane Cox

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Website

2016 saw a few changes to our website that the congregation can take advantage of. We launched an online

donation capability which is designed for all monetary donations to the church such as supporting outreach

ministries, memorial donations, and special categories which are outside the normal pledges. Membership also

has access to an online Prayer Corner. Through this section of the website members can post prayer request so

that anyone who wishes can answer the request with prayers for our fellow family members.

There has been numerous improvements to the scrolling communication screens on our church monitors which

draws information directly from the web site, a more user friendly reading format, and added information to

keep our congregation current on upcoming events. The large parish hall wall monitor has been activated to

allow the same messages as the upper level monitors.

There will be a lot more coming in 2017 for our church website and suggestions, concerns and questions are

always welcome. If you have a question or comment about the website please contact Paul Jokerst.

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The 177th Convention of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri took place on November 18 and 19, 2016.

The entire Convention was held at the Doubletree in Chesterfield, Missouri.

The theme for this Convention was The Dying and Rising Church. The Rev. Canon Elizabeth (Liz) Easton,

Canon to the Ordinary in the Diocese of Nebraska, was present to help frame honest conversations about

challenges facing all our congregations—and the hope and new possibilities available to us.

The convention went very well. Bishop Smith began the convention talking about how the church typically

does not involve itself in politics but we do get involved in public policy. He put out a call for us to be more

active in these challenging times - have a voice, be more active and stand up to hatred, bigotry and

intolerance and to not be afraid to ask for help when we need it. We can not be passive. He talked about

declining attendance to Sunday services, financial stress in the diocese, and declining number of clergy but he

also spoke of positives happening in our diocese including a new church building in Eureka, Deaconess Anne

House, lots of food ministries, our partnership with the Diocese of Lui and South Sudan and 12,000

Episcopalians making a difference in Eastern Missouri.

To read his speech, go to www.diocesemo.org/news/2016/11/18/dying-and-rising-allow-honesty-and-hope-

cross-and-resurrecti

The Rev. Canon Liz Easton of Omaha, Nebraska gave 3 speeches in which she told stories about her own

diocese and the churches and parishioners overcoming struggles and celebrating successes. She talked about

facing keeping lines of communication open in our churches even when there are “hard truths” that need to

be discussed and dealt with.

We voted on 2 resolutions (minimum wage of $15/hour for diocesan employees and a minimum clergy

compensation - both resolutions passed). Both of these resolutions were passed with the understanding that

congregations are “strongly encouraged” to implement these resolutions. However, some of the smaller

congregations who may not be able to afford the salaries that come with these 2 resolutions were reminded

that these are simply encouraged, and congregations will not be forced to implement these.

Jennie Kelly

177th Convention

EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF MISSOURI

November 18 and 19, 2016

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