Annual Report - St. Aidan Anglican Church

2015
Annual Report
Annual Meeting, Sunday, February 7, 2016
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
Church Wardens:
Carla Hoffmann
Greg Salmers
Leona Shepherd
Priest:
Deacon:
Associate Priest:
Treasurer:
Vestry Members:
Reverend Dr. Dean Pinter
Reverend Arleen Champion
Reverend Dr. Cal Macfarlane
Janet Cockerell
Johannah Bird
Tara Gish
Michelle Josephson
David Warnock
Jr. Members, Mahri Macfarlane,
Jeremy Ratzlaff
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Agenda
1.
Opening prayer and call to order
2.
Minute of silence for those of our congregation who have died during the past
year.
3.
Election of Chairperson
4.
Election of Secretary
5.
Statistics of St. Aidan Anglican Church for 2015 ............................................p. 4
6.
Stories from 2015
7.
Minutes of Annual Meeting – held 8 February 2015 .......................................p. 5
8.
Rector’s report ................................................................................................p. 7
9.
Diaconal report ............................................................................................. p. 10
10. Church Warden’s report ............................................................................... p. 13
11. Reports of parish organizations. .................................................................. p. 14
These reports and their accompanying financial statements will be received with
one motion, dealt with one at a time to allow for comments, and then the whole
voted upon together.
12. Treasurer’s report ........................................................................................ p. 30
13. Budget ratification ......................................................................................... p.34
14.
Appointment of scrutineers
15.
Nominating committee report
16.

Election of Vestry members

Election of Warden

Election of four delegates and three alternate delegates to Synod

Election of Search Committee

Appointment of an auditor
St. Aidan general business
17. Renovation report
18. Member concerns
19. Announcements
20. Adjournment and closing prayer
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Statistics: St. Aidan Anglican Church
January 1, 2015— December 31, 2015
Baptisms
None
Marriages
Jillian Rebecca Peters and Gradyn McLean Childerhose
Kathryn Elizabeth Ceaser and Timothy John Robert Rains
Confirmation
Amanda Marie Hackney
Eric Nels Ortlund
In Memoriam—May they rest in peace
Ronald Andrews
Valerie May Andrews
Archdeacon Mary Ann Boote
Marjorie Damour
Franklin Harold DiBartolo
Lillian Eremko
Amie Mary Gardner
Rose Margaret Gusaas
Phyllis “Joan” King
Annie Kopeck
Loretta Fay Metcalfe
Raymond Pickering
Elizabeth (June) Read
Bishop Duncan Wallace
Winnifred Margorie Walters
Douglas Edward Wilson
Gertrude Annie Young
Helen Zaboysky
Total number of parishioners (includes 55 children and youth) 330
Total number of households, including single units 184
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St. Aidan Anglican Church
Minutes of the Annual General Meeting
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Vision: A caring community rooted in the word, living our faith, and sharing God’s love.

Mission: Responding to God’s initiative, we will build a loving community which fosters communication,
acceptance, and respect for all through worship, education, and fellowship. We will diligently administer
the resources of our church and fulfill our responsibility to the wider church community.
Opening prayer and call to order by Fr. Dean Pinter
Minute of Silence for those of our congregation who have died in the past year (2014).
Election of Chairperson
Leona Shepherd nominates Fr. Dean as Chairperson.
Carla Hoffmann seconds the nomination.
Carried.
Election of Secretary
Carla Hoffmann nominates Katie Rains as Secretary.
Johannah Bird seconds the nomination.
Carried.
Stories from 2014
Grant Poettcker, Bryce Boan, and Sarah Pouteaux share stories of how
St. Aidan greatly impacted and shaped their lives and circumstances,
particularly in 2014.
Minutes of 11th Annual Meeting held Sunday, February 9th, 2014
Robin Berthelet moves to adopt the minutes.
John Langford seconds the motion.
Carried.
Reports:
Rector’s report
Church Warden’s report
Deacons’ reports
Reports of parish organizations
Envelope Secretary’s report:
Discussion of envelop secretary’s report.
Carla Hoffmann moves to accept the reports as submitted.
Leona Shepherd seconds it.
Carried.
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Treasurer’s report:
Discussion of treasurer’s report.
Ratification of the 2015 budget
Janet Cockerell moves to adopt the 2015 budget.
Gwen Currie seconds the motion
Carried.
Appointment of an auditor
Leona Shepherd moves that Dan McCarron be hired as auditor for 2015.
Elsie Eade seconds the motion.
Carried.
Appointment of Scrutineers
Carla Hoffmann moves to appoint John and Sharleen Langford as scrutineers.
Chris Hoyes seconds the motion.
Carried.
Nominating committee report
Warden nominations are Leona Shepherd for re-appointment, and
Greg Salmers as a new warden as Brian Gobbett’s term is completed.
Vestry nominations for full vestry members are Michelle Josefson and Johannah Bird,
Mahri McFarlane and Jeremy Ratzlaff as junior members.
Nominations for synod delegates are the three wardens and Johannah Bird.
Nominations for four alternate synod delegates are Brian Gobbett,
David Warnock, Ellen Redshaw, and Nancy Hoyes.
Nominations for search committee members are the wardens,
the synod delegates, Deacon Arleen, and Luke Johnson.
Vivian Barber moves that the nominations cease.
Robin Berthelet seconds the movement.
Carried.
General Business
Discussion of general business.
Renovation Report:
Discussion of renovation report.
Announcements and Meeting is adjourned.
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The Rector’s Annual Report for 2015
Rev. Dr. Dean Pinter
St. Aidan Anglican Church
12 January 2016
Healthy Soil
As many of you know, in the summer I grow vegetables. It takes a lot of work and involves a
measure of expense, but as a wise professor of mine once remarked, “gardening is cheaper than
therapy.” While harvesting (and eating!) is always the most enjoyable part, the most important
part of gardening is caring for the soil. Without good soil, there is no good growth and no good
fruit. A similar principle applies to parish ministry. Good soil is vital for good fruit.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What are some of the marks
of “healthy soil” in a
church? Acts 13 describes
the church in Antioch, Syria,
which was the epicentre for
Christian mission and
ministry in the early Church.
Luke describes these
qualities that, by all
accounts, were the necessary
conditions for this
community to hear the Holy
Spirit speaking and to be led
by the Holy Spirit in acting:
1.
They were a learning
church (“there were
prophets and teachers”,
13:1)
They were a diverse church (they had people from various ethnic and social/economic
backgrounds)
They were a generous church (they sent their best people away on mission, supported
famine stricken believers in Jerusalem, and they were hospitable to visitors)
They were a worshipping church (“While they were worshipping the Lord …the Holy
Spirit said…” v. 2)
They were engaged in spiritual disciplines as a community (“fasting….fasting and
praying…”, vv. 2-3)
When I think about the parish of St. Aidan, I think we reflect these marks of maturity – not
perfectly of course, but they are at the core of what beats in this community. I see many people
in our parish seeking and acquiring knowledge and wisdom, but also learning more about
themselves and one another through our Lenten small groups, “Abbey School,” Aidan’s Table,
Youth Group, Godly Play, etc.
I see diversity in our parish in terms of age, gender, marital status, and socio-economic
background. One needs look no further than our vestry to see this reflected. I long for more
ethnic diversity in our parish, but even in this regard we are beginning to see families begin to
worship with us who brighten our community with their cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
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While I have no idea (beyond our own family) what anyone gives in financial terms to support
the ministry of this parish, I know that we have about 100 identified givers, I know that many
people give hundreds of hours of their time each year to maintain our building, teach our
children, visit the infirm and dying, balance the books, prepare the altar, practice music, etc.
On Sunday 10 January, our parish gave – in excess of our regular tithes – an offering of $1200
to our beleaguered and persecuted brothers and sisters in the Diocese of Muyinga. Bishop Rob
told me this would feed about 200 families for a week. Ours is a generous parish.
Finally, our parish is a worshipping and prayerful parish. I’m beginning to hear more and
more people say “we are gathering together for worship” and not “going to church” – that is
important, because that indicates people know the difference between what we do (we
worship) and who we are (we are the church). The Daily Office of common prayer is kept in
our chapel and on the campus of Briercrest College & Seminary, the latter thanks to Brody
Albers and Truitt Wienz; we have reinstated the ancient service of Compline prayer thanks to
the leadership of Lowana Porter and the faithful members of that choir; our parish prayer cycle
has over 30 people using it to pray which means everyone in our parish is prayed for on a daily
basis.
In all of this, I think we are also a parish that simply celebrates life well. We laugh together, we
read plays together, we join in Quiz nights together, we meet in one another’s homes for
fellowship, our Lenten Groups alone brought over 80 people together to read mystery novels,
talk about Harry Potter, watch and discuss apocalyptic films, bake bread, read poetry, discuss
the meaning of marriage, and read the Gospel of Mark. I think this all speaks to the health of
the soil in which the ministry of this parish grows.
A Healthy Parish
An annual report – and not just my report – should tell the story of our parish. While we have
much that we would like to
see improve and grow, I
think we are a healthy
parish. As a healthy parish, I
think our Annual Report
should look back with
gratitude in 2015; it should
look forward to 2016 with
hope; and it should attend to
the love of God that sustains
us today. I am grateful that I
work and worship, live and
laugh with a parish that is as
interesting, diverse,
generous, and godly as St.
Aidan is. We are not
perfect. I know I’m far from
perfect, but we are healthy
and we are growing in
Christ-like maturity.
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The ancient king Knute once reminded his people that he was just a man, with little control of life
around him, by taking his courtiers down to the seaside, setting his throne up on the sand, and
commanding the incoming tide not to wet his feet. Of course, the tide came in without respect for his
person. It was his way of reminding them that he was a man, not God and far from omnipotent.
I know I am far less a man than King Knute, but I do identify with his story in that as your priest
there is much that I know I cannot do. Furthermore, I am acutely aware of my own weaknesses just as
much I try to remind myself of the strengths and callings I do have. In all this, I also know that I don’t
walk alone and I don’t carry the ministry of this parish alone. We are one body with many parts and
together we are one expression of Christ’s beloved Church in Moose Jaw.
As I look back on 2015 I am grateful. I am thankful to work with a godly group of fellow clergy
(Deacon Arleen continues to be a joy and I am more than delighted to have Fr. Cal and Fr. Dustin
back in our midst!!), a faithful and fun-loving group of wardens and vestry, a conscientious and
caring assistant, a joyful and diligent community of ministry leaders, and a devoted and grace-full
parish of brothers and sisters in Christ. This gives me much hope for the future and the courage to
walk into each new day in the light of God’s love expressed through his Word, his Spirit, and his
people – you! St. Aidan is a healthy parish, with healthy soil, and much fruitfulness.
Respectfully submitted,
Fr. Dean
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Deacon’s Annual Report 2015
Recently I was asked to write an article about diaconal ministry at St. Aidan for the Canadian
Deacons’ Association newsletter, Salt and Light. This was prompted by a statement made by
Bishop Rob Hardwick to a meeting of deacons. He noted that diaconal ministry is taken
seriously in our parish and is evident even in the message recorded on our answering machine “You have reached St. Aidan Anglican Church.... If this is a pastoral emergency, please call
Deacon Arleen at 306 631-1001”.
The Examination of an ordinand for ordination to the Diaconate begins: “N, every Christian is
called to follow Jesus Christ, serving God the Father, through the power of the Holy Spirit. God
now calls you to a special ministry of servanthood, directly under the authority of your bishop.
In the name of Jesus Christ, you are to serve all people, particularly the poor, the weak, the sick
and the lonely.”
As a deacon at St. Aidan, I take a leadership role in this ministry but it is lived out by YOU, the
people of the parish. A picture is worth a thousand words..................
Diaconal Ministry at St. Aidan – A Parish Affair
Our Youth in action - Clean up at our
Outreach Lunch
Feeding the hungry
Bringing in the groceries
Knitting scarves and
mitts for the cold
Aidan’s Table
Young Adults Ministry
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Sunday Outreach Lunches at St. Aidan — Partnering with Riverside Mission
Summer Services at St. Columba Church located between Buffalo Pound Lake and Tuxford
St. Aidan Leadership Retreat hosted by the parishioners of St. Boniface, Assiniboia
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Threshold Ministry:
- Extending Hospitality
- Evangelism
Pastoral Care
This is but a small sample of the diaconal ministry that happens in and through our parish
every day. Hearts are touched and lives are changed by God working in and through each
and every one of us. It is a privilege and a joy to serve God and his people with such caring,
faithful servants of the Lord. I thank you and I thank God for you and your ministry.
Serving with you,
Deacon Arleen Champion
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Wardens’ Report 2015
Traditional roles of wardens include being liaison between vestry and the incumbent in the
case of the Rector's Warden, and liaison between the congregation and vestry in the case
of the people's Warden. St Aidan has three wardens due to the size of the congregation.
Wardens are also responsible for decorum during services, and on church property. They
also have a duty to ensure services occur and to account for church property.
Wardens participated in Living the Mission by attending meetings and visiting parishioners
to explain the campaign and appeal for contributions.
A hall rental survey of every church in the diocese was completed by one warden with a
view to providing the synod office with details which might help create a better insurance
arrangement for St Aidan, and thereby facilitate hall rental and income.
Wardens have taken an active role in the Lay Reader initiative, by delivering services at St
Aidan and St Columba.
Facilities initiatives have been the focus of much of Vestry's attention.
Part of this focus was on the Sexton role, its definition and succession planning. Another
initiative scripted the janitorial role in more detail.
A Communication plan was developed in late 2015 the elements of which will be
implemented in 2016.
Wardens also participated in the Retreat at Assiniboia in early 2015, which was enjoyable
and meaningful, and in Synod in the Fall.
Initiatives being carried forward from 2015 into 2016 include creation of a church directory,
efforts to complete the kitchen for the new hall, and completing an application to the
Anglican Foundation for funding for Youth programming.
Respectfully submitted,
Greg Salmers
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Pastoral Care Annual Report 2015
With the construction of the F.H. Wigmore hospital and its opening in October hospital visitors
experienced some changes. In mid-July clergy and lay hospital visitors and hospital staff
attended an orientation which included among other things - parking information, new
terminology for hospital areas, hygiene training and a tour of the facility. We began visiting in
the new hospital in November and in December we received new photo identification tags.
Clergy, and parishioners who are licensed to administer
reserved sacrament, provide communion in six care homes.
Easter cards and Christmas bouquets, along with Christmas
cards created by the St. Aidan children and containers
decorated by the Stitch and Chatter group, were delivered
to those in these care homes who are unable to attend
worship services at St. Aidan.
Sherril Land sends or delivers sympathy cards on behalf of
the people of St. Aidan.
The taxi service continues but with a change; we are asking
people to share in the cost of this service if they are able.
In November Father Dean and Deacon Arleen invited the pastoral care group to participate in a
training session. We began by sharing in the Thursday Eucharist, and followed that with lunch
in the lower hall.
Fr. Dean distributed copies of Tim Lawrence’s article “Everything Doesn’t Happen For a
Reason”, a powerful document in which the author takes aim at the “platitudes our culture has
come to embody” when talking with people who are experiencing grief. We read together this
piece as well as an excerpt from Eugene Peterson’s “Leap Over a Wall: Earthy Spirituality for
Everyday Christians.”
Deacon Arleen provided us with copies of the BAS “Service of Reconciliation” which contains
a declaration of forgiveness which may be used by lay persons to meet the needs of penitents.
The occasion was, as Fr. Dean said, “an opportunity to talk, think and pray together.”
Laura Westfall joined Carol Gerolami as an Extendicare visitor this year. She and Carol have
begun to use the booklet “Prayers for Seniors” in their ministry there.
We are encouraged in this ministry in so many ways; by those we visit, by the people in this
parish who care for one another and by the example set by our clergy Fr. Dean, Deacon Arleen
and Fr. Cal.
Pastoral Care Group:
Laura Westfall
Helen Smith
Sherril Land
Gwen Currie
Carol Gerolami
Elaine Deans
Vicki Bode
Linda Aird
Catherine Osachoff
Fran Rushworth
Lorraine Cushway
Respectfully Submitted,
Gwen Currie
Lorraine Cushway
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Children’s Ministry Report for 2015
In 2015, the children in the Godly Play groups were divided by age as follows:
Younger Godly Play group – Age 3 to Grade 1
Older Godly Play group – Grade 2 to Grade 5
As well we have Nursery for children under 3
Godly Play teachers for 2015 – Erin Ortlund, Cora Melanson, and Ellen Redshaw.
Lynnea Elsasser and Kelsey Goertzen, both Briercrest College students, joined the Godly Play
teaching team in September.
Nursery caregivers – Breanna Bowker, Sarah Trafford, Mary Calhoun, Rosalyn Poettcker, and
Kelsey Goertzen
Numbers for 2015 for each group were:
Nursery – 7 children
Younger Godly Play group – 11 children
Older Godly Play group – 8 children
Activity boxes have been added at the back of the church in the area of pews in the back
corner. Many of the families with younger children sit in this area when the children come up
during communion so these boxes are a quiet way to keep the children busy while at the same
time the children are a part of our worshiping community. Each plastic box contains animal
figurines, puzzles, books, coloring pages and crayons. I am extremely grateful to Robin
Berthelet for putting these boxes together for the kids. I have seen the contents of these boxes
being used by the children. I would ask that the children and their families continue to put
things back in the boxes and put the boxes back under the pews when church is over.
Ellen Redshaw
Children’s Ministry Leader
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MUSIC MINISTRY REPORT 2015
2015 saw the music ministry at St. Aidan continue in many good ways and new ways.
The number of people involved in the music continues to grow:
- Sandra Warnock, our main organist as well as Kelsey Hoff enthusiastically learning to
play the organ. Kelsey has played at a couple of services.
- Piano players – Sheila McCarthy, Rhoda Cairns, Cora Melanson, as well as Diane
Rhodes has helped out a few times.
- A dedicated choir that leads in the music for a good percentage of the year, and worship
leaders and worship teams sometimes lead in more contemporary worship style music.
- Flute players – Kyra van Hanegem, Lori Peters, Heather Gobbett, and Laura Peckham –
involved in various ways – prelude, during the services, and during Advent lessons and
carols. I look forward to the flute players in our church to be more involved, even if it’s
on a monthly basis.
- Lowana Porter – involved in the Compline choir and service, an extension of our
worship outside of Sunday mornings.
- Diane Rhodes,in the fall of 2015, began leading the anthem choir to prepare the choir
and others who wish to join in getting ready to sing an anthem at special services.
Lowana was looking after the anthem choir prior to Diane being involved. I look forward
to more anthems that Diane will teach and prepare those who are interested in being part
of singing an anthem every few months.
Ellen Redshaw
Music Ministry
Library Report 2015
Our library is now in its new location at the west end of the new hall. it bright and cheery
and it is exciting to be there. Thank you to all who helped with cataloging and moving.
At the time this report is being written there are still a few finishing touches to be
completed but we are almost there. If you haven’t done so already, take a few minutes to
visit and browse.
During the year a large number of books have been donated and some new ones bought.
There may be a book you would like to borrow for your daily or Lenten meditation.
If you have any questions or would like help in finding what you need please ask. I’d be
glad to help.
Respectfully submitted,
Catherine Osachoff
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Youth Ministry Annual Report 2015
St. Aidan Anglican Church, Moose Jaw, SK | Prepared by Luke Johnson
Purpose and Goals
The purpose of this ministry is to foster mature faith in the young people of St. Aidan Anglican
Church, and to equip them to become mature participants in its life and ministry. Our focus is
spiritual formation and community-building, seeking to help young people to grow deep roots in
the Church and to understand the importance and challenge of cruciform living. Our goal is not
merely to entertain; it is rather to walk with the young people of St. Aidan (and those from other
churches who make this youth group their own) as we learn together what it means to follow
Christ in all areas of our lives. As such, this ministry is characterized by three essential
components:
Taking God seriously: Each week we spend a significant amount of time reading and
discussing scripture, praying together and learning to pray, and challenging ourselves and
each other to follow Jesus.
Taking each other seriously: As a Christian community of young people, we want to learn
to appreciate who each other are, how we can support each other, and to learn to see
Christ in each other.
Taking our tradition seriously: The youth ministry year is structured according to the
Christian Year, shaping our time together by the “big questions” of each season. We
regularly celebrate and learn from the lives of the saints, feast days, liturgical rites,
creeds, and spiritual disciplines within the Anglican tradition (such as Compline prayer).
Youth ministry at St. Aidan takes place primarily in two settings:
Youth Group and Youth Sunday School.
Youth Group
Youth Group is crafted primarily for young people in grades 6-12. But since grade or age does
not always accurately gauge a young person's maturity, this is not a hard-and-fast ministry
boundary.
The following five elements are the foundation of youth ministry at St. Aidan.
Weekly youth nights: Tuesdays, 6:00-8:00pm, September to April, we meet most typically
at St. Aidan for time together, food, group activities, scriptural study, and prayer. Since
spring and summer schedules get busy after April, we will switch into “Youth Group
Lite” mode for May and June to celebrate our year together with more casual events.
Small groups: The larger group is split into age- or maturity-specific small groups led by
youth leaders. These small groups are designed to help relationships flourish between
young people of common age, and to be able to share in prayer, scripture, and each
other’s lives in ways that are not possible in a large group, or in mixed company.
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Socials: To encourage community-formation, we enjoy social events together roughly every
6 weeks. These prove to be effective ‘first-contact’ nights for newcomers. To date,
we’ve gone skating, swimming, bowling, kayaking, had “guys’ night” and “girls’ night”
and more.
Retreats: Twice a year we conduct overnight and multiple-overnight events during which
we can more intensely focus on growing together in prayer, worship, study, and fun. In
2015 we held our third annual Fall Retreat, this time at West Bank Bible Camp (near
Swift Current), and our second Lenten Retreat as an overnight event at St. Aidan.
One-on-One discipleship: Our youth leadership team seeks to connect with our young
people in a variety of ways outside of official, weekly meeting times for the joy of
encouraging each other, and to be able to more thoughtfully pray for one another.
Leadership
Youth Minister: Luke Johnson
306-313-4193 (cell), [email protected]
As Youth Minister, Luke is responsible for setting the long-term goals and vision for the
ministry, for training and equipping leaders, cultivating a safe and nurturing community
environment, pastoral care of the youth group as a whole, and for orchestrating and leading
youth events throughout the year. Luke’s role as Youth Minister is regulated by a Memorandum
of Understanding between himself and St. Aidan.
Administrative Support: Jennifer Johnson
306-313-1362 (cell), [email protected]
Jennifer provides administrative support, including weekly coordination of volunteers who
provide youth night snacks and leader suppers, logistical planning for socials and retreats,
carpooling, and the day-to-day management of the youth ministry budget. Jenn also provides
support to our youth leaders, making sure they are equipped with resources and information, and
facilitates youth leader appreciation.
Youth Leaders
Youth Leaders are responsible for leading small groups as part of weekly youth nights and on
small group nights, and for co-ministering with Luke in pastoral care and in fostering the
healthy growth of the youth group community. In 2014/2015 (Season 3), our youth leadership
team included Amy Bird, Matthew VanderKwaak, Steve Porter, and Shelby Peifer. In the spring
of 2015 we were joined by Megan Peters and Chuck Hackney. In Fall 2015 (Season 4), our
youth leaders included Steve Porter, Shelby Peifer, Megan Peters, Brooke Olmstead, Josiah
Nelson, and Ben Bird.
Communication





Weekly "Youth This Week" emails
Text messaging (event reminders)
Facebook Page: facebook.com/staidanyouth
Facebook Carpool Group: facebook.com/groups/staidanyouthcarpool
Website: staidan.ca/youth
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Budget
This past year we have operated on a budget of $3,000 which covered snack food and drinks for
Tuesday youth nights, event supplies, training materials, and volunteer youth leader
appreciation.
2015 Summary
Our youth group consists of about 27 young people from St. Aidan, The Gathering (in
Caronport), Caron Community Church, and other Moose Jaw churches. There are approximately
20-24 young people who regularly attend Tuesday youth nights. In 2015, we put on 22 youth
nights, 2 small group nights, 6 socials, and 2 youth retreats.
Highlights from 2015
West Bank Bible Camp
In early October we ran our Fall Youth Retreat at West Bank Bible Camp for the first time. We
were impressed by their facilities, and were greatly encouraged by their friendly support
throughout the weekend. Despite being rained out all weekend, the experience of the camp and
staff was so positive that we hope to make West Bank our regular Fall Retreat location in the
future.
Small Group Nights
As our youth group continues to grow in number, it is necessary to find ways to engage our
young people in smaller settings in order to continue to foster faith and friendship effectively.
This year we introduced “Small Group Nights”, taking place 5 times from October to April.
Currently our youth group consists of 5 small groups: Jr. Guys, Middle School Guys, Sr. Guys,
Jr. Girls, and Sr. Girls. Each group meets in a different home, hosted by parishioners and led by
youth leaders. These nights are more casual but intentional times of Christian fellowship, study,
and prayer. The response has been overwhelmingly positive from our leaders, young people, and
hosts, and we are planning to make the Small Group Night a more prominent part of youth
group in Season 5 (2016/2017).
Expansion of our leadership team
In response to the numerical growth of St. Aidan’s youth group, we expanded our leadership
team in fall 2015 to include 6 youth leaders. In 2016 we anticipate expanding the team further to
8 or 9 leaders. It has been an absolute joy to work together as a team as we seek to model mature
lives of prayer and service. Both Jenn and I have been so grateful for the dedication and energy
of Steve, Shelby, Megan, Josiah, Ben, and Brooke. Cultivating a community in which young
people are known, prayed for, and find belonging makes for a difficult challenge, but one met
with joy as we accomplish the task together.
Growing ‘Togetherly’
One of the great privileges of ministering to young people over a long period of time is to get to
watch them mature in faith, stature, and friendship. We have noticed remarkable growth in
maturity and leadership among our most long-term young people. As the Original Seven, they
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help to set the tone, to welcome newcomers, to interact maturely with scripture and prayer. It was
an honour to hear Luke Gobbett address the church, articulating why youth group has been
indispensible for him. The group was ecstatic to welcome Nate Resch home after his family’s
return this fall. As we piled into vans at the end of this year’s Fall Youth Retreat, a number of
boys were missing from the roll call -- only to be found playing basketball with Josiah (a
moment described by one of our youngest guys as his “favourite memory” from the retreat).
When we said farewell to Matt and Amy Vanderkwaak (and more recently to Brooke Olmstead)
as they headed off for further studies, there was an outpouring of good and funny memories as
young people and leaders alike reflected on fun moments and things learned as we pursue Jesus
together. 2015 has been a significant year in the life of this community of young people.
Opportunities to spur others on in ministry
This fall our youth group was asked to produce a video for the diocesan synod, showcasing our
youth ministry in order to encourage other churches to establish youth ministries of their own. It
was both profound and fun to hear how youth group has been an important part of our young
people’s lives, and it was exciting to contribute to the diocese’s ongoing work. (The video is
available on St. Aidan’s website.)
In November I was invited to speak to a class of youth ministry students at Briercrest on
“Liturgy in Youth Ministry”. Now that we have been at this for a few years, I am glad for
opportunities to help others to grow sustainable youth ministries.
"Mystery Epiphaners"
As part of our celebration of the revelation of Jesus in Epiphany 2015, our youth group was
visited by a number of "Mystery Epiphaners" from St. Aidan who shared how Jesus has revealed
himself in their lives. These Epiphaners included Emile Van Hanegem, Linda Aird, and Jo Bird.
After hearing these stories, our young people shared their own stories with one another in the
final week of Epiphany. Because this has become such an important time of encouragement and
reflection, we have made "Mystery Epiphaners" a regular part of our celebration of Epiphany
each year.
“Sustainable Youth Ministry” Proposal
In August 2015, I presented a proposal to Vestry for the future development of St. Aidan’s youth
ministry, outlining the need for an increase in resources to respond to a youth group of
increasing size. If you would like to read the proposal in full, please talk to a Vestry member or
to Luke Johnson.
Youth Sunday School
Sunday school is designed for young people in grades 6-12, taking place most Sundays from
September to June, from the dismissal in the service (just before the first reading) until The
Peace -- about 10:45-11:20. The Sunday school time is guided by a simple liturgy that proceeds
through similar elements as the service upstairs, seeking to remain in close continuity with St.
Aidan’s worship service. Sunday school takes a break on all high church days in order to
encourage young people to participate with the full St. Aidan body (e.g., Advent season,
Epiphany Sunday, Easter Sunday, baptisms, confirmations, etc.).
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Leadership
Sunday School Coordination: Luke Johnson (Youth Minister)
As Youth Minister, Luke Johnson is responsible for preparing each week’s Sunday school
liturgy and readings.
Sunday school Teachers
Teachers are responsible for leading the Sunday school liturgy and leading a discussion on the
morning’s readings. In 2014/2015 (Season 3), the Youth Sunday School teacher roster included
Luke Johnson, Johannah Bird, Steven Bishop, Jeremy Ratzlaff, and Chuck Hackney. In Fall
2015 (Season 4), the roster included Luke Johnson and Chuck Hackney.
Respectfully submitted,
Luke Johnson
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Welcoming Team Annual Report 2015
“The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born
among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers
in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.” (Leviticus 19:34 NKJV).
“Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to the
stranger, for by doing that some have entertained angels without
knowing it.” (Heb 13: 1-2 NRSV)
We take this seriously as we welcome guests into our midst every day at St. Aidan. This is an
important aspect of the ministry we are called to and we strive to be intentional about it whether
we are welcoming you to worship, to our church office, a meeting, or a class, be it of a spiritual
nature or young families coming for dance class or Brownies.
Research shows that when a guest arrives, the first thing they notice is if they are welcomed and
made to feel wanted. Their attention turns next to how we relate to each other - is there joy in
our fellowship. Once they are feeling warm, welcome and comfortable, they are then able to
open themselves to God in our midst.
Our Welcoming team is a very capable group of parishioners who
serve at worship services. They strive to create an atmosphere of
warmth, welcome and friendship where you can come and meet
God in our space, our liturgy and in each other.
I thank each member of this team and
I give thanks for each of them. It is an
honor to serve God and his people with
them. As a parish, I invite you to regularly
join me praying for God’s blessing on
these people. May they be filled with joy and love as they extend the
welcome of Christ and seek him in those they meet knowing that they
are welcoming Christ himself.
I encourage each of you in the parish to
discern if you are being called to this ministry. There is no such thing
as too much hospitality. If you do feel called to serve or would like to
at least explore it, please speak with me, Deacon Arleen, or any
member of the Welcoming Team. As we welcome people to our
church, we also welcome new members to our team.
Serving with you,
Arleen Champion+
Welcoming Team Ministry Leader
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ALTAR GUILD ANNUAL REPORT 2015
The ministry of the Altar Guild is to set and clean off the table each week or when it is required.
We arrange for flowers at Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter.
Thank you to Leona Shepherd for the wonderful job of decorating the church for these occasions.
The Guild works in two groups. The schedule is two weeks on and two weeks off.
If you wish to be part of this ministry it requires about 1 hour of your time.
We encourage you to prayerfully consider the Altar Guild Ministry.
You can contact Father Dean or Elaine Deans at 306-693-4496.
Respectfully submitted
Elaine Deans, President
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Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is an outreach program that St. Aidan has helped the Five Hills Health Region
with for a number of years. Meals are prepared at the hospital and as a volunteer, we pick up the
meals and deliver them to the addresses supplied. The city is divided into 2 routes with 6-8
meals per route. When all the meals have been delivered the containers are returned to the
hospital. St. Aidan volunteers do this twice a year. Our dates for this year are April 18 23 and Sept. 26 – Oct.1. Sign - up sheets will be out approximately 3 weeks prior to these
dates.
Thank you to everyone who faithfully signs up each time. If you have any questions, talk to
Sharleen.
Respectfully submitted,
Sharleen Langford
Annual Report Stitch & Chatter/ Dorcas Group
Our group meets the first and third Monday of most months in the Lower Hall at 1:15 pm. We
knit and crochet items to donate to the Gordon Reserve. Our last shipment went out in the fall and
we have decided to donate locally to the Multicultural Council for their use. This will assist with
the newcomers to Moose Jaw.
Our year started with a celebration as two of our members, Mona Jones and Madge Bennett,
turned 100 years young within a week of each other. On a sadder note a long-time member, Amie
Gardner, passed away.
We collect a toonie from each member and donate this money towards the church. This year we
donated to the Youth Group.
We welcome new members to the group so feel free to join us for a friendly get-together as we
share a cup of tea, some stitching and lots of chatter.
Respectively submitted by
Carol Gerolami
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PRAYER CHAIN 2015
St. Aidan’s prayer chain over the years has been made available to our parishioners who
want prayer support for themselves, family or friends. The request for prayers are made by
filling out a prayer card and putting it in the Prayer Box, (permission of the person for whom
the prayers are requested should be obtained whenever possible.) checking off the option
you would like:
1.
2.
3.
4.
To be put in the bulletin for the
intercessory prayers for “Prayer of
the People’ during the worship
service on Sundays and will
appear in the bulletin for four
weeks.
To be put on the prayer chain
and intercessors pray daily for two
weeks, unless notified to extend
the prayer time. Prayers put on
the prayer chain are confidential
and specifics may be given.
You can check both options.
You can also phone Linda Aird
(306-692-7221) with your prayer request and it will be passed on to the prayer chain.
Prayer request cards are available at the back of the church on the table behind the last
pew, and a Prayer Box is provided to put the card in.
The Parish Prayer Cycle booklet is available to use in your own personal prayer time and is
on the table under the large bulletin board. Please sign for your prayer booklet in order that
we may know how many parishioners are taking part in this ministry. To update your
booklet please check the master copy on the table. This is an opportunity for everyone in
the parish to be lifted up to the Lord daily when enough parishioners take part in this
personal ministry.
Thanksgiving to those prayer angels who intercede on behalf of those who so desire extra
continuous prayer for themselves or others.
If this is a ministry that you feel called to do, please do not hesitate to become a prayer
warrior.
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Aird
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Communications Annual Report 2015
Signage
In early 2015 the identifying words, St. Aidan Anglican Church,
were attached to the east side of the building.
Advertising
We advertised with CHAB for both Easter and Christmas in 2015.
The Easter ad Fr. Dean wrote appears below and was aired on
CHAB radio 16 times over eight days. Cost $100.
Journey through Holy Week-Palm Sunday to Easter - a passage
through the darkness of Christ's passion to the joy of His
resurrection- with St. Aidan Anglican Church, Moose Jaw. For service details visit the website at
st.aidan.ca or call the church at 306-694-5445. We also placed an Easter ad with Moose Jaw Express.
Fr. Dean also wrote the Christmas ad which was aired on CHAB 12 times. Cost $100.
Celebrate the coming of Jesus Christ with St. Aidan Anglican Church Christmas Eve Family Service at 7 pm
and a Mass at 11 pm. located on the corner of High Street and First Avenue Northeast, where the
Christmas bells will be ringing. Visit st.aidan.ca
Website
Report from web team leader, Luke Johnson:
St. Aidan assembled a “Web Team” in 2015:
Sonya-Rose Bremnes - content management and social media sharing([email protected])
Luke Gobbett - sermon audio ([email protected])
Luke Johnson - web development and web team leader ([email protected])
The development of St. Aidan’s mobile-friendly website is underway. We hope to launch the website
by the summer.
This year St. Aidan received a free, on-going subscription to “Google Apps for Non-profits,” equipping
our parish with sophisticated communication and education tools, and allowing us to create official,
customized “staidan.ca” accounts
St. Aidan’s office is experimenting with Podio as a cloud-based data-management solution (free for
approved non-profit organizations), allowing our parish to better organize and make better use of
parish data.
If you would like to have ministry news posted on the website please contact Luke at
[email protected] or talk to one of the communications people listed below.
Check out the website. You will find sermons, Sunday ministry schedule, information about ministries,
photos and more.
We are pleased to have Jeremy Ratzlaff join the communications committee.
Vivian Barber
Carla Hoffmann
Jeremy Ratzlaff
693-2698
696-2604
513-7574
Arleen Champion 694-0705
Gwen Currie
693-3470
Respectfully Submitted,
Gwen Currie.
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Building and Renovation Committee Report, 2015
1. Building renovation project:
Activities undertaken in 2015 include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Installation of windows and doors for the library.
Preparation and installation of window casings, door casings and baseboards.
Completion of ceiling in janitorial room.
Installation of shelving in the new library area.
Thank-you to those who provided volunteer labour relating to these and other facility related
activities in 2015.
Despite being unfinished, the parish hall is in regular use. We look forward to seeing it
completed so that it can enhance the life of the parish even more effectively.
The next major step in the renovation is the completion of the kitchen. This will proceed as
soon as funds are available.
2. Maintenance:
1. Late in the year, the parish was permitted to access and salvage items from the former
Moose Jaw Union Hospital. As a result, desks for the finance office and the library
and tables for the small conference room above the church office were obtained.
2. ‘Exit’ lights have been updated to meet current requirements.
3. Storage cabinets for janitorial supplies were installed in the hall.
We are thankful for the good work Brenda Francis does in keeping the church clean and tidy.
Please assist her, particularly in the winter, by ensuring that you clean your footwear at the
entrance before proceeding further into the building.
Committee Members: Bryce Boan, Janet Cockerell, Ken Deans, John Langford,
David Warnock, Glynn Wright.
Submitted by:
D. Warnock, for the committee and J. Langford, Verger.
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Renew/Restore/Release (R3) Campaign Committee
Annual Report for Year ending 2015
The R3 campaign held a Celebration Sunday on March 8th to note the pledges and gifts received
by then: $202,174 from 92 pledgers. The actual number of donors recorded since then is 96.
Below is a report of the actual receipts.
The R3 Committee’s workload after Celebration Sunday thankfully became much smaller. Our
role now is simply keeping parishioners informed on campaign results. The campaign is a fiveyear campaign. R3 proceeds are applied to church and hall renovations which are reported on
by the Building & Renovations Committee. Special thanks to Nancy Hoyes for confidentially
keeping track of gifts made in services.
We invite you to meditate on the following comments that reflect the spirit of our donors.
-St. Aidan is a home for me. I want to do my part to keep it strong.
-I am encouraged by the plans proposed.
-We must finish it. It is time.
-This is about community building, what programs can be enabled.
R3 Committee Members: Gwen Currie, Leona Shepherd, Pam Speir, Sandra Warnock, Arleen
Champion, Carla Hoffman, Tara Gish (Chair).
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ENVELOPE SECRETARY'S 2015 ANNUAL REPORT
Avg. Weekly Giving
# of Identifiable
to General Funds
$1.00
or less
1.01
2.00
2.01
5.00
5.01
10.00
10.01
20.00
20.01
25.00
25.01
30.00
30.01
40.00
40.01
50.00
50.01
75.00
75.01
- 100.00
Over
100.00
Givers in 2015
5
4
13
24
13
16
10
8
5
7
6
2
113
Total Identifiable Givers:
*
# of
Identifiable
Givers in
2014
9
7
17
15
17
17
4
11
8
10
4
1
120
*This reflects a decrease of 7 in the number of identifiable givers
from 2014. However, those 113 givers contributed $151,806.18 to
General Funds, which is almost $1300 more than last year.
→ This continues the trend of less parishioners giving more.
19 households are using pre-authorized debit (as of December 31, 2015).
Respectfully Submitted,
Nancy E. Hoyes, Envelope Secretary
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Treasurer’s Report
The financial statement of St Aidan has shown a small net income for the 2015 year,
mainly due to a mild winter with little snow, the receipt of a generous bequest , and an
increased use of our parish hall by outsiders.
Financial demands are increasing as we grow as a parish: the Youth Program is growing
by leaps and bounds, the Inklings evenings are becoming ever more popular, Godly Play
and the Nursery have shown an increase in numbers and the overall attendance at
services has increased. Hospitality and Pastoral Care and the Library are growing. These
are but a few of the many areas of ministry at St Aidan. These are the stories that our
financial statement tell about us, The Parish of St Aidan.
The 2016 budget itself, prepared by Vestry with much deliberation, fulfills the major
principles of Vestry, namely to present to you a balanced budget that reflects the
priorities of the parish with respect to programs and established practices.
In support of the Youth Program, Luke's honorarium is increased to more accurately
reflect the amount of time the program demands. As this program grows and develops it
requires more resources.
As more services are being held and attendance is up, there is an increase in all the
general expense categories as well as that of liturgical supplies.
It is important to note however, that though the 2016 budget is balanced, it is primarily
because of transfers in from investments set aside to provide funding for the youth.
These funds are rapidly becoming depleted however, and with that in mind, research into
support from outside sources, such as The Anglican Foundation, are being explored. This
would offer some relief for a limited time if it were successful.
There is a new line in the budget for 2016: 'Parish Fundraising'. This will require visionary
and exciting initiatives undertaken by the congregation as a whole to augment our
envelope giving and meet our budget needs.
When we give of our money or our time or talents, we don't give them to the church but
rather through the church to translate God's mission into action. As we reflect upon
what we will give, let us be reminded of the abundance and the endless generosity of
God's grace provided to us.
Respectfully Submitted,
Janet Cockerell, Treasurer
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