Annual Report 2013 - Nelson United Church

“We dare to live the Way of Jesus,
embodying the Love of God”
Annual Report 2013
AGM March 9, 2014
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2013 Annual Report AGM March 9, 2014
Table of Contents
Annual Report
Ministers’ Report ............................................................................................... 4
Board News 2013 Annual Report ...................................................................... 6
A Story of New Direc ons in Nelson United Church 2013 ................................ 7
NUC AGM Minutes March 3, 2013 .................................................................. 10
NUC Congrega on Special Mee ng November 24, 2013 ............................... 14
NUC 2013 in Pictures ....................................................................................... 16
Nelson United Church 2013 Financial Report .................................................. 18
Nelson United Church Dec 31, 2013 Income Statement and 2014 Budget .... 21
Nelson United Church Compara ve Balance Sheet as at 12/31/2013 ............ 24
Deferred Revenue/Reserve Funds/Trustee Loan 2013 ................................... 25
Memorial Fund Report 2013............................................................................ 25
UCW Report 2013 ............................................................................................ 26
UCW Financial Report 2013 ............................................................................. 27
Men’s Club Report 2013 .................................................................................. 28
NUC Facility Report 2013 ................................................................................. 29
NUC Recogni ons 2013 ................................................................................... 30
Membership Report 2013 ................................................................................ 31
Scholarship Report ........................................................................................... 31
Church Community and Pastoral Care Report 2013 ........................................ 31
NUC Outreach Report 2013 ............................................................................. 32
Trustees’ Annual Report Ending Dec. 31, 2013 ............................................... 32
NUC Trustees Balance Sheet as at September 30, 2013 ................................. 33
Trustees’ Accounts as at December 31, 2013.................................................. 34
Scholarship Accounts ....................................................................................... 35
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Ministers Report
As I looked back at other reports from the previous 18 ½ years that I’ve been in ministry with you (and since our amalgamation in 1995) we usually suggested that this year was a remarkable year. We have experienced a great deal of change over the past nearly 20 years!
When people around BC Conference ask me how it is that we’ve bucked some of the national trends with respect to declining numbers in congregational membership and increased financial struggles, I usually say something about the fact that we’ve reinvented ourselves a number of times over the years. We spend a fair bit of energy reviewing our ministries and when things are not working well, we try something different. In conversation with others around the Conference and Presbytery, I would suggest that the congregations that do not review their ministries regularly and engage in significant change when necessary do not flourish. There are, of course, demographic considerations that come into play, but congregations need to take the risk in substantive and transformative change.
We are currently into the third year of our new constitution, and it has been a breath of fresh air. We hold town hall meetings regularly so that there is free exchange of ideas from Board to congregation and vice versa. We held 3 meetings in 2013. Our team ministries are having fun and doing the work of the congregation without bureaucratic red-tape. We have a new Décor Team that is having fun envisioning the visuals of our worship space. The Staff Team and the Board continues to engage in the hard work of planning and review (Board) and implementation (Staff Team).
Much of the early part of 2013 involved preparation for my Sabbatical, both on the part of the Board and on my part. Most of you know where my preparations took me—to Nepal, Istanbul and Israel and Palestine. Most of us also know where your preparations took you—a journey with community agencies and conversation about where we might partner in the future. Part of the journey this past fall involved the decision to become part of Affirm United and realize our Mission Statement and in fact that all persons are welcome to be members of Nelson United Church, all LGBTQ folk in particular.
Just before I conclude, I want to say thank you. I want to thank Carol for coming out of retirement to provide pastoral leadership during my time away. I want to thank the Sabbatical Planning Team—Morgan, Liz, Peter, Robin, and Nancy—for their leadership up to and including the sabbatical time. I want to thank the Staff Team for keeping things going, and all of the teams who took on extra responsibilities. I want to thank Lois who took over the Treasurer’s duties for Kootenay Presbytery and who did many extra things while I was away. I want to thank Janet for keeping the home fires burning and being an anchor while I was away. I want to ultimately thank you, the congregation of Nelson United Church, for the opportunity to take a sabbatical. I know not everyone has this privilege;; it was a wonderful experience for me, life-changing and humbling. Thank you!!
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I’ll conclude with some of the learnings from my sabbatical that informs my ministry into the future. These thoughts are from my Mustard Seed article. For a more comprehensive report please see the January, 2014 Mustard Seed.
I’ve learned how the manner in which we live here in Canada has vast implications for the people living in Nepal and Israel-Palestine.
I experienced first-hand dire poverty in Kathmandu and injustice in Palestine as well as Nepal.
I experienced the sheer joy of the Himalayan Mountains and the manner in which people live on the land there. I’ve been left with the deep sense of seeing the spirit/
the divine in the other—Namaste. I’ve learned that I can be remote and aloof in my own demeanor. Connecting with other people of other traditions has humbled me and helped crack open my own protective armour. Being in the Aroub Refugee Camp near Bethlehem and hearing stories of the deep commitment to neighbour and community was inspiring. I’m also more optimistic about the world. Hearing people who live in the midst of injustice, like Daoud Nasser of The Tent of Nations near Bethlehem, was humbling and amazing to me.
I learned a great deal in attending the Sabeel Ecumenical Palestinian Liberation Theology Conference in Jerusalem about the importance of partnerships.
May God bless us in 2014 as we continue the journey together.
E
es mas i
r
T n bo
M nas
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Board News 2013 Annual Report
The Board of NUC has had a very busy year. With 4 important strategies in mind---spirituality, Art and Music, Health and Out Reach, initiatives were planned to keep our congregation engaged and looking to the future. Financially, we “kept afloat” and the congregation responded well to our stewardship campaign in April. A large focus was David’s sabbatical and Sunday services. Thank you to Carol Prochaska and members of the Nelson Community for providing exciting Sundays during David’s absence. Topics on Sundays included Youth, Liturgical Dance, Buddhism, Spirituality and Peace, Homelessness, Transgendered issues, and service to others. This initiative will be continued in 2014. Other accomplishments included the determination of support to children and families and the designation of Nelson United as an Affirming congregation. The formal naming of the church as Affirming will occur on March 9, 2014.
The Board continues to be committed to the 4 strategies listed above and plans to continue to suggest ways to “reach out” to the greater community. Plans also include the implementation of a communication team, exploration of new stewardship and legacy giving strategies, evaluation of fundraising and support to the music ministry.
We will have a purpose of raising our visibility in the community and building a platform for community involvement within NUC. More people will become aware of our walking the Way of Jesus. The Board welcomes your input and looks forward to their last term working on vital, energizing strategies.. We hope you all will join us on the journey.
We will have a purpose of raising our visibility in the community and building a platform for community involvement within NUC. More people will become aware of our walking the Way of Jesus. The Board welcomes your input and looks forward to their last term working on vital, energizing strategies.. We hope you all will join us on the journey.
submitted by Nancy Jones, Board Chair
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A Story of New Directions in Nelson United Church 2013 The Board is charged with creating strategic purposes to follow our 2011 statement “We dare to live the Way of Jesus, embodying the love of God”.
We launched a new constitution early in 2012, and the new structure with board, staff and ministry teams.
We voted and approved to become an Affirming Congregation in November 2013 During David’s sabbatical, we began to strategically position ourselves within the Nelson area community, and engage the community in our space. Community service group leaders were invited to speak to us about their passions, be part of our worship and meet the congregation.
We enlivened worship with varied art forms to reflect the Christian year through the new Decor Team.
We have planned significant new re-direction for 2014 in our Family Ministry. The Church Board
It is worth repeating the responsibilities and composition of the Board: Honey Bellman and Liz Knox joined Chair Nancy Jones, Treasurer Morgan Gould, Secretary Peter Lee and Presbytery reps Leah Gray and Peter Busby, as well as Minister David Boyd as Staff Team representative on the Board. Responsibilities of the Board
1. Identify, discern and clarify the mission of our congregation 2. Engage in strategic planning 3. General Policy Development re governance, discernment and strategy (ref. “Governance and Ministry” 4. Operational Policy Development re management and oversight 5. Liaise with trustees, ministry & personnel committee, and memorial committee 6. Elect a chair, secretary and treasurer from within the board 7. Meet at least quarterly 8. Coordinate the narrative budget report for the AGM 9. Manage the resources of the church (i.e. national business, building, finances) 10. Lead congregational meetings and report to the congregation via town hall meetings and updates in The Mustard Seed
11.Carry out program evaluations. The Story of Service in the Nelson United Church Community 2013
Worship and Music David Boyd, our full-time minister, experienced a sabbatical leave from August to early December. Carol Prochaska led worship, as well as some of our lay folks, and we followed David’s footsteps to Nepal and Palestine by blog. The Worship Planning and Staff teams faithfully organized the prayer writers, scripture readers, prayers and vigils, communion servers, baptisms, special Christmas and Easter services, Sunday music, seniors’ outreach worship services, power point volunteers and seasonal sanctuary décor. Taize services have been discontinued for the time being. This past year a new group has arisen that provides dramatic visual support for special services. It is known as the Décor Team, and the group created winter fabric draperies and a treescape in the sanctuary for advent and Christmas, and removed awkward choir pews and hymn boards.
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Music: J ohn and David or ganized the music management. A special choir event in December , “Christmas Remembered”, was presented with our Jubilate Deo Handbell Choir and our Chancel Choir in conjunction with Stephanie Judy’s Bon A ccord;; the proceeds supported the Nelson Grans to Grans and the Nelson Food Cupboard. A new recorder group is rehearsing regularly with Robyn Murray. Our music life continues to be enriched by the occasional solos gifted to us by Shirley Moon, Thabi Pratt, Marion Bergevin, Rachel Berg and the congregation has occasionally been led in music by Robin Murray, Leah Gray and Roy Nelson. A big thanks to the handbell and chancel choirs for leading us in music throughout the year.
Liturgical Dance was pr ovided by Quinn Fr iesen for two Sundays and she has embar ked on workshops for 2014.
Church Community and Pastoral Care Pastoral Care team members visit those who are unable to get out, the grieving, the lonely and the ill. Joan Cunningham, on behalf of the congregation, sends cards of sympathy or congratulation. A Prayer Circle for specific concerns is coordinated by Judy Cameron. The Prayer Shawl Ministry of congregational knitters has lovingly created well over a hundred shawls, and the recipients have found great comfort wrapped in warm prayers. Frozen casseroles have been provided to folks in emergency times, poinsettias delivered, and transportation to church events for those who have difficulties getting out. The Men’s Club meets monthly for fellowship, contr ibutes skills and money to much needed maintenance jobs, and raised funds through annual events like the Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday and our Annual Garage Sale. They are always on hand to assist with event help at the church. Due to challenges, the Fowl Supper was not held this past fall.
The United Church Women, the lar gest UCW gr oup in Br itish Columbia, suppor ts the activities of the congregation by providing funeral teas, after-church coffee times (also supported by the Men’s Club) and other events that needed refreshments or meals. The annual Christmas bazaar, garage sale, tea and coffee fundraisers added vitality and funds to our congregational life and UCW mission projects. The Fall Kootenay Presbytery meetings were hosted by our church this year, lovingly cared for by the UCW.
The Building Team car es for the Chur ch building itself, and suppor ts the congr egational and community use of the facility;; this last year drainage issues were solved, thanks to Bob Steed, in order to allow the Food Cupboard and hall events to continue comfortably. A list of building improvements is enclosed in this AGM report, and many individuals and teams have risen to the challenges of the facility. It is aging, but much effort is dedicated to its maintenance and enhancement. It is estimated that 25% of our operating expense goes into the building, while 75% of budget expense goes to church programs and worship.
Fundraising teams managed a sale of spr ing plant baskets and hosted the Alber ta Univer sity choir both as church fundraisers. Christian Development and Communication Development: Lear ning and spir itual gr owth oppor tunities wer e pr ovided by David and Car ol in 2013. The Intentional Community group has been a vital and life-giving group for those who attend, both community and congregational members. Lenten study groups and Bible study also allowed congregational members to grow and be challenged. Quality spiritual development 8
opportunities for adults were provided through regular Book Club meetings, Bible Study, Adult Education and Contemplative Prayer/Meditation groups. The Family Ministries Coordinator Michelle Sylvest resigned in March 2013 and the Board is redirecting the funds allocated for youth ministry in other ways. The Sunday School classes were relocated into the Fairview room and St. Paul’s room with new storage, while the church hall area was subdivided to accommodate a youth space and Food Cupboard more effectively.
Communication has been enhanced thr ough the weekly bulletins, our chur ch website, The Mustard Seed, the Observer subscriptions, programming brochures, church information pamphlets, weekly advertising in the Nelson Star, occasional advertising in The Express Online, and keeping our Church Library updated and inviting. Donna Strongman continues an email newsletter from the church. Jody Dudley has again served as our thoughtful “Webminister” at www.nelsonunitedchurch.ca;; he revamped our website to be more interesting and user friendly.
Outreach: local and international The Outreach Team had sever al focus pr ojects this past year , planting the gar den box again and hosting a peace festival. Through Fran and Ken Flesaker, we supported a Baja community, through Mary Ann Morris a nursing class sojourn in Guatemala, and others keep us informed about projects around the world. Outreach co-initiated the Nelson Refugee Committee which welcomed two women refugees from Burma in the summer of 2012 and continued to support them in their local integration. The team has also helped to raise funds for the AIDS walk. We have members involved in the Nelson Grans to Grans which holds a fundraiser African Feast dinner here each year.
In looking at ways to better support Nyanyadzi Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, David Boyd and Ann Alma have corresponded with Reverend Nomatter Nikisi. In 2013, $330 was received in donations for this project. Irene McIlwaine continued to correspond with Rachael Malposa and received updates on Rachel’s mother, Eleanor Maposa.
The Outreach Team is currently not meeting;; reaching out, while still an important part of our congregational focus, took on a more local emphasis in 2013, with speakers from our community groups sharing their passion. The Board has taken more of a coordinating role with respect to Outreach. Our Sabbatical Journey at home included David Reid fr om the Eco-society, Nadine Podmoroff from the Doukhobor Community, Joyce Dahms-Whiffen from Cicada Place, Christine Schmidt of The Nelson and Area Youth Centre, Stacey Locke, a homelessness worker, Rona Parks from Nelson Community Services, artist Amber Santos, Christopher Moore from ANKORS, teacher Don Warthe who has led students into Central American community service, Cameron Wenhaus from the Buddhist Community, and environmental worker Nadine Reynolds. Jazz music was provided by a high school ensemble led by Tim Bullen. The Board survey of the speakers showed the congregation appreciated the new thrust.
The community use of the church, another for m of outr each, was managed by the Chur ch Administrator and volunteers, providing regulations, technical assistance, and a congregational presence at many of these functions, welcoming users whose purposes fit our mandate – concerts, festivals, cooking classes, daycare, and the Food Cupboard, to name a few, sometimes supported by receptions from the United Church Women. The Church is now home to three community choirs: Corazon, Lalin and Voix Vive. A small team manages community events in the sanctuary as needed. The community use of the church was presented to the City of Nelson in order to maintain permissive tax exemption on a small amount of our property;; the process defined more clearly to the City and to ourselves how much of a vital community centre our church really is. ...submitted by Marg Stacey
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NELSON UNITED CHURCH
ANNUAL GENERAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
MARCH THIRD, TWO THOUSAND AND THIRTEEN 12:10 P.M.
CHAIR: Nancy Jones
RECORDER: Peter Lee
CONGREGATION: Approximately 45 people
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order by NUC Board Chair Nancy Jones at 12:10 P.M., following the Sunday morning worship service and a potluck luncheon.
OPENING PRAYER AND SONG: David Boyd led with leading the members in singing MV #44, Shadow of Substance.
DECISION MAKING VOTING PRIVILEGES: Nancy spoke to the consensus-based decision making process to be following at the meeting AND, that all present have voting privileges at this meeting.
Order of Business:
AGENDA:
That the 2013 AGM Agenda be approved.
Approved by Consensus ACCEPTANCE OF THE CONGREGATIONAL MEETING MINUTES TO RECEIVE THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE JOINT NEEDS ASSESSMENT COMMITTEE (JNAC): That the minutes of the Congregational Meeting of the JNAC dated March 4, 2012 be adopted as presented. Approved by Consensus
ACCEPTANCE OF THE MARCH 25, 2012 AGM MINUTES: That the minutes of the Annual General Meeting of March 25, 2012 be adopted as presented.
Approved by Consensus
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGM REPORT OF 2012:
That the report of the Congregational AGM meeting of March 25, 2012 be adopted as presented. Approved by Consensus
MEMBERSHIP REPORT AND PRAYER OF REMEMBRANCE/CELEBRATION:
David Boyd led us in a prayer of recognition and blessing, celebrating the baptisms, new members and marriages of our community of faith, and remembering those members who died in the past year.
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FINANCIAL REPORT:
Morgan Gould, Treasurer, presented the 2012 financial statements and 2013 budget. Altogether, other revenue sources are declining. We could have looked at raising revenue through stewardship but the Board has decided to focus on other sources of revenue. Our 2013 operating budget represents an 11% increase over 2012. The 2013 budget is only .08% over the 2012 expenditures.
We have set a target of raising $9,000 for 2013. We are asking for members to consider increasing their donations by 2% to cover inflationary costs for 2013.
Resolve to agreement to Treasurer’s Report for 2012:
Approved by Consensus
Resolve to accept the 2013 budget:
Approved by Consensus
REACH OUT STRATEGIC PLANNING;; “We’re in Transition”:
Nancy introduced the planning discussion to focus on NUC being in transition in a time of change. Refer to page 24 in the 2012 AGM report. This is the official launch of Board’s reach out strategy.
In April we will launch a stewardship campaign to reach out to those who were previously attending church to ask why they aren’t, for example. A table group session was organized and the following comments reported out:
Table group session-What are your greatest fears around this time in transition of NUC?
Brian McLachlan-this church is very accepting to host activities and look at the rentals, for the hall and to look at the sanctuary upstairs.
A time to reach out. Reach out to our community for a common purpose. Who has the energy, passion, drive and skill to fund raise and to reach out to the community.
Ron-sell indulgences;; concern that we have very ambitious outreach programs and how do we finance this.
Bill – we are most fearful of being forced out of our comfort zone.
Carol-biggest fear that people will have burnout due to aging process, are we reinventing the wheel with fundraisiers? Competition with other churches.
Leah-attendance at church, young people come to church but don’t keep coming, burnout factor, maybe this could rejuvenate us.
Morgan-look I have lots of ideas but what is the process to bring ideas forward to get them implemented, energy cannot be just with the Board it must be with the congregation.
Doug-if you have been doing good things in this church and have been doing great service, it is the fear of it not being picked up.
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Andrew-fear is that people will not hear that;; fear of becoming bothersome secular environment, do we have the confidence of Lois-fundraising concern –make sure we include members from outside of the church to fundraisers.
Carol-what does the art and music mean and where would we experience art and music? If we don’t speak with one another and don’t speak and share contacts we will be wandering around in the wilderness for another 40 years.
Brian-young families;; young people are texting one another;; how do you reach out to those people, getting a table at Shambala and getting one of David’s sermons on YouTube. Economic market is difficult, we are competing for young people’s time, we used to have time to go to the cottage for a month and today is not like that. It is fantastic we are even having this discussion. What supports in NUC do we need to address those fears?
Harold-fact that we are all here today and this is a start
Lou Costain-young people involved in their electronic methods teaching us Carol-evangelizing, fear of comfort zone, for me it is great exercising that faith.
Peter B.-if you build something they will come;; Baptists at UVIC, Selkirk College student union has their own food distribution system. Mary Ann-a process that is really transparent, for ideas coming forward, and how are they vetted and
Joe-for those who volunteer could we have an email list and Joe would be interested in setting it up and supporting it.
Thank to everyone who brought potluck lunch
Sing 216 Wherever you may go and blessing Joe-maybe we could invite friends who are not Invite musicians here who are not churched.
Lynn-If we have one small success in this we will have been successful
Doug-concerned about the process. Direct process, ideas can be presented to the Board and they can have the presenter provide the fullness of it.
Carol-Another gathering is needed to get together and talk more and pledging.
Mary Ann-hope, there is a lack of hope. People who are spiritual are out there and they should be in here, we have a message of hope that, have our youth person participate at Selkirk College;; space upstairs should be considered a multi-use space.
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Nancy-we will definitely consider having presenters come to the Board.
Church facebook is active, we would welcome ideas coming in through our facebook.
TERMS OF BOARD MEMBERS- RECCOMENDATION TO AMEND NUC CONSTITUTION:
Peter Lee, Secretary, presented an amendment of the NUC Constitution to read that Section C.5. be amended from: “Board members will normally be appointed for 2 year terms, renewable up to 6 years.” To: “Board members will normally be appointed for 3 year terms, renewable up to 6 years.” Approved by Consensus
RESOLUTION TO APPOINT HONEY BELLMAN TO THE NUC BOARD:
Approved by Consensus
RESOLUTION TO APPOINT LIZ KNOX TO THE NUC BOARD:
Approved by Consensus
RESOLUTION TO APPOINT NANCY JONES AS 3rd LAY PRESBYTERY REPRESENTATIVE:
Approved by Consensus
RESOLUTION TO APPOINT TOM JOHNSTON TO THE NUC BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Approved by Consensus
RECOGNITIONS:
Gratitude was extended to the members of all of the NUC teams for their steadfast efforts to enrich the community of the Nelson United Church.
David presented an entertaining multi-media presentation on Images and Thoughts from last year. OTHER BUSINESS: Nancy thanked David, on behalf of the congregation for his ministry.
CLOSING: David Boyd led us in a song and closing prayer circle.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:35 P.M. 13
Nelson United Church Congregation Special Meeting November 24, 2013
To Consider Affirming Church Status
In Attendance: approx. 76 members of the NUC Congregation.
Meeting commenced at approx. 11:25 AM.
1.
Nancy Jones, Chair of the NUC Board, introduced the purpose of the meeting is to: Support applying for Affirming Church status and, to restate our purpose, by amending our NUC Mission Statement, to include wording to support the Affirming status. 2.
Nancy introduced Therese DesCamp, from New Denver who is a Presbytery representative and who will preside over the meeting.
3.
Nancy and Therese explained that the decision making process would be by a consensus based model. Members would have 4 choices within this process:
Accept wholeheartedly
Accept with reservations
Pass, and request further information
Block the decision
This would allow room for all voices and take in the needs of everyone in the congregation.
All other conditions for Affirming status, including an inclusive marriage policy, 4. Resolution 1- All those present may vote at this meeting.
Approved by Consensus (ABC).
5. Therese introduced the resolutions for consideration:
Resolution 2- Be it resolved that:
We support NUC applying for and obtaining affirming church status through Affirm United.
ABC
Resolution 3- Be it resolved that:
We support acceptance of a new mission statement which reads:
“God calls us to be a loving, inclusive and compassionate people, who following Christ’s teachings, gather to worship, celebrate the gift of love, live with respect in creation and seek justice and welcome for all regardless of age, race, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or physical and mental ability.”
(Continued on page 15)
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Summary of Discussion/Questions:
- We wish to look at previous statement, adopted in 1996. The mission statement adopted in 1996 was:
“God calls us to be a loving and compassionate people, who following Christ's teachings, gather to worship, celebrate the gift of love, enrich our lives and seek justice for all creation.”
Why are we having these questions regarding insertion of this information-isn’t there an endless list of things that we could pass?
The national church in partnership with Affirm United requires this.
Still feel a little uncomfortable when we start defining things that leads to excluding other things.
Affirm United is really all about Gay, Lesbian and Transgendered people.
Maybe that is all that needs to be acknowledged in the statement
If you are going to broaden this, why not just increase it to reflect the human rights law around this country? One that comes to mind is marital status.
Couldn’t have protection where the church is omitting these things.
Simply reflect the legislation. Conversations with Affirm United suggest this wording.
About the specifics, if we want to be more inclusive;; broad statements don’t work
-this is more of a document of how we show our love to the community.
We stay open to those who would say that I am marginalized by this and we would deal with this, just as we did during the time when women needed to be named. Still not comfortable;; What has been said covers all aspects of support and concern;; reassess some of the wording;; David should be part of this process;; He is informed and supports the process.
It is important that we move forward on this and then come back to it For example, we don’t have homeless people, economic injustice
Support this provided it went back to the Board for further review We appreciate the comments and concerns that have been raised
It is understood that a committee will be struck to reword this in the future.
ABC
Meeting adjourned at 12:01 PM
______________________
Therese DesCamp, Presider
_____________________
Peter Lee, Secretary
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NUC 2013
Valentine Tea - Feb
St. Patrick Day Tea - March
AGM - March 2013
Caritas Retreat - May
Spring
Garage Sale - June
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in PICTURES
P
r
e
s
b
y
t
e
r
i
a
l
L
u
n
c
h
Picnic
Thanksgiving
Christmas/Advent
17
18
19
20
Nelson United Church December 31, 2013 Income Statement and 2014 Budget
21
22
23
Nelson United Church Comparative Balance Sheet As At 12/31/2013
24
Deferred Revenue, Reserve Funds, Trustee Loan 2013
Deferred revenue, reserve funds, trustee loan
January 1, 2013 to December 2013
Nelson United Church Opening Balance Building – windows fund
Benevolent fund
Endowment Donations
Paul Wood Fund
Refugee Fund
Bell Choir
Mission and Service Fund
World Development & Relief Fund
UCC Emergency Response
Nelson Food Cupboard
Special Project
Received 0
1,088.63
0
1,554.70
0.00
80.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1,654.70
800.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
-22,858.55
-1,574.50
-1,585.00
-1,960.00
0.00
100.00
1,652.93
0.00
2,199.70
1,649.85
80.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
330.00
85.00
-85.00
0.00
1,950.00
6,595.00
-2,750.00
-6,595.00
0.00
0.00
25.00
-25.00
0.00
3,523.33
42,376.90
-39,887.75
6,012.48
-16,600
1,800.00
0.00
-14,800.00
0.00
800.00
0.00
Memorial Donations
0.00
Repayment on loan from trustees
Closing
Balance
100.00
2,219.00
800.00
645.00
1,649.85
0.00
22,858.55
1,574.50
1,585.00
1,960.00
330.00
Kenya Project
Scholarships (Women, Brett, Allen)
Camp Koolaree
Expended Remitted Memorial Fund Report 2013
Account held at Bank of Montreal #0730 8300-618 Community Account
DATE
DEBIT
CREDIT
Jan. 1, 2013
BALANCE
1081.51
Jan. 4, 2013
2012 donations
795.00
1876.48
Jan. 9, 2013
Recommended that this deposit be included in 2013 report
25.00
1901.45
Invested with Coat Capital:
1 year term matured May 31, 2013 4276.37
6177.85
(Maturity Value May 31, 2014 = 4366.17)
December 30, 2013`
6177.85
There were no requests for funds in 2013.
*Sadly in 2013, Ruth Chambers, a longtime committee member died and a new member was re-­
quired. Mildred Anderson has agreed to come on the committee, Other members are Marg Stacey, David Boyd (ex officio), and Lois Berg (as a signing officer)
submitted by Bill Costain, Co-ordinator of the NUCMFC
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UCW Report - 2013
The UCW branch of Nelson United Church meets once a month, on the third or fourth Monday of each month. Four women’s groups comprise the UCW: Caritas, 56 Unit, Jubilee, and Unity. Most of the original “Good Companions” unit have joined one of the other existing groups. We always welcome new members to any of our UCW units.
As usual, this has been a busy year for the UCW, with many various fund-raising and support activities. We organized a successful joint Garage Sale with the men’s club in June, and our annual Christmas Bazaar in November. We assisted with the World Day of Prayer in March;; facilitated an Alzheimer Coffee Campaign in October;; held a Spring Coffee Party;; provided dinner for the University of Alberta Mixed Chorus in May;; and provided refreshments for the Dickens reading in December, and the Friendship Tea in October. In August we hosted a 50th Anniversary gathering for Enid and Maurice Corbett. Throughout the year, events included: a hot-dog lunch, and a spring congregational brunch hosted by Caritas, as well as various dessert offerings for a refugee dinner and an outreach dinner;; the Valentine coffee party hosted by 56 Unit;; the Top ‘O The Morning coffee party hosted by Unity;; and a soup and bun lunch hosted by Jubilee. Our UCW group facilitated several finger-food pot-luck congregational lunches through the year, as well as funeral receptions. We provided home-baked and decorated cakes for several occasions, including baptisms and graduation. Each unit, along with the men’s club, took their turn, a month at a time, to provide Sunday beverages for the congregation. At least once each month goodies, now including a gluten-free option, were provided as well.
The Fall meeting of Kootenay Presbytery was held at Nelson United in October. The UCW, under the able direction of Donna Strongman, provided excellent meals. Well done, Ladies!
At our AGM in November, we dispersed funds of $7,750.00, supporting not only the week
-by-week work of our church, but also the Nelson Food Cupboard, Mission and Service, and several community and provincial groups such as the Women’s Centre, Nelson Community Services, First United Mission, Naramata Centre, Camp Koolaree, and Kootenay Lake District Hospital.
This year the UCW purchased a good used fridge to replace the old one in the back room. A UCW “protocol” book has been created (Thanks Donna Strongman and Judy Cameron for all the work done on this) and is kept in the kitchen. It’s a useful reference for the various UCW events. The annual “deep cleaning” of the kitchen and back room was done in November. We are researching long tables and plastic table clothes for future purchase.
Sadly, we lost our dear friend, Rosalie Gower, this year. We hold her memory in our hearts. And we often fondly recall Caroline Hopwood, Jane Slawson and Teresa Hall who have moved away from the area.
We are always thankful for assistance from the men of the church, who take their turn at preparing coffee;; help us to set up for various events;; respond to repair and building requests;; and haul off truckloads of recyclable material following the annual garage sale. In spite of losing many members over the past couple of years, we still have 76 names on our UCW membership list. May we continue to serve with a song in our hearts!
Respectfully submitted by Leah Gray (UCW President)
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NELSON UNITED CHURCH WOMEN- FINANCIAL REPORT-2013
Submitted by Grace Smith
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Men’s Club Report - 2013
Our club’s membership is comprised of 19 dedicated men with exceptional experience,
moderate energy and considerable talent who meet on the 3 rd Tuesday of each month.
The primary activity of this club has three purposes: a) To plan and execute church repairs, renovations and improvements. b) To stimulate social activities, some of which will generate revenues to contribute to the “general operating fund” of the Church.
c) To foster and encourage friendship.
The Repair and Renovation activity that was accomplished 2013: Renovations to two of the church washrooms, repairs to kitchen appliances and cupboards, shelving in the UCW locker room, additional shelving in the shop area, major modification to the Sunday school room in the basement and repairs to the Communion Table.
Our club is also the principal energy to set up tables and chairs for the many events that take place throughout the year in the Church Hall. Last spring our members participated in the Meals on Wheels program, the annual Garage Sale and Plant Sale.
Twice annually (May & December) we prepare and serve coffee/tea for our Sunday social following the Worship Service.
With the assistance of Caritas the Men’s Club will, once again, host the annual Pancake Supper, to be held on March 4th and in November our renowned Fowl Dinner!
Last Summer Sharon and Rich Drew kindly hosted the Men’s Club Summer Social at their Beasley home. Over 60 attendees enjoyed perfect weather and delicious food!
A very successful Christmas Social took place in mid December at the Nelson Seniors Centre on Vernon St. We always encourage our Nelson United Church male members to join our active group!
I’d love to hear from you especially if you are under the age of 75!
Respectfully, Ralph Elliot, on behalf of the members of the Men’s Club.
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NUC Facility Report 2013
Policies
Updated rental rates and policies
Capital improvements and space enhancement
Upgraded space for youth, moved Sunday school to second floor rooms, pur-­
chased cabinets, cupboards reconfigured in youth area, food cupboard divider wall built, room re-carpeted and painted
Decor team removed pew ends and hymn boards, enhanced the sanctuary for advent
Stair railings installed Acquired second couch
Washroom improvement
New crèche acquired from Bethlehem
Repair and Maintenance
Engineer hired to assess water drainage and pipes from church to road
Carpet quotes and window quotes acquired
Fairview room heating repaired
Outside Tap fixed
Locks inspected and new ones on food cupboard door and roof hatch
Flood mitigation: after dye testing and root removal and finding pipes we didn’t know about, catch basins cleaned, Bob prepared an excellent drainage map of our church for future reference. Still some slight ground water seepage in base-­
ment but it’s random and chronic and will not cause any problems.
Inspection of boiler, repairs and final certification – needs to be done annually now
Cleaned storage upstairs
Garden planted by David and Janet and maintained by Joe Woodward and crew
Sanctuary cleaned Reorganization and cleaning of back room behind the kitchen – shelving built
Bell was repaired
Organ tuned
Sound system repaired
Administrative
New website
Permissive tax exemption acquired for three years with the City of Nelson
Insurance confirmed for future as a result of compliance with facility upgrading Facility use up from last year, weddings and funerals down, computer lease complete last year so cost is down this year, copier contract and maintenance up, phone & internet up, repair and maintenance way down due to not needing to dig for new drainage, no flood expense. Five year capital plan prepared for Board consideration
submitted by Marg Stacey
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Nelson United Church 2013 Recognitions
Church Staff
David Boyd
Lois Berg
John Pengelly
Barbara Couch (relief secretary)
Sabbatical Minister
Carol Prochaska
Worship and Planning Team
David Boyd
Lynne Busby
Roy Nelson
Verna Kidd
Judy Cameron
Carol Allan
Judy Cameron
Staff Team
David Boyd
Lois Berg
Leah Gray
Margaret Stacey
Presbytery Representatives
Peter Busby
Leah Gray
Nancy Jones
Church Board
Nancy Jones, Chair
Peter Lee, Secretary
Morgan Gould, Treasurer
Honey Bellman
Liz Knox
Peter Busby and Leah Gray, Presby-­
tery Reps.
David Boyd, Staff Team Rep.
Ministry and Personnel Team
Peter Busby
Linda Hoskin
Bill Potkins
Donna Strongman
Pastoral Care Team
David Boyd
Charlotte Nelson
Dianne Harke
Dorothy Wayling
Edna Whiteley
Irene McIlwaine
Joe Woodward
Judy Cameron
Wendy Steed
Diane Holt
Building Team
Lois Berg
Marg Stacey
Jean Elliot
Ralph Elliot
Bob Steed
Steve Marshall
John Pengelly
Trustees
Roy Nelson
Mike Berg
Ralph Elliot
Mel Ferraro
Elaine Henderson
Bess Rathbone
Bob Steed
Tom Johnston
United Church Women Executive
Leah Gray
Grace Smith
Lynne Busby
Bess Rathbone
Donna Strongman
Charlotte Nelson
Bev Robertson
Men’s Club Coordinators
Ralph Elliot
Brian Strongman
Church Envelope Secretary
Donna Strongman
Offering Counting Team
Lou Costain
Gordon Mackie
Anne Corbett
Mustard Seed Editor
Kathy Baker
Webminister
Jody Dudley
Technical Assistance
Kevin MacAskill
Dave Haynes
Sunday School Teaching Team
Janet Boyd
Honey Bellman
Riordan Bellman
Judy Cameron
Michelle Sylvest
Marg Stacey
Gratitude goes to the many beautifiers, decorators, artists, power point preparers & operators and gardeners of the Church: we would look plain without them!
Gratitude goes to the many voices, readers, dramatists, choir singers, sound techs, bell ringers and writers: we would sound empty without them!
Gratitude goes to the many bakers, food preparers, coffee time hosts and meal organizers of our Church: we would not celebrate without them!
Gratitude goes to the many greeters, ushers, promoters, event managers, shawl makers, drivers, home visitors, emergency call out folk: they are the front line faces of Nelson United Church.
Gratitude goes to the prayer vigil-keepers and prayer circle people of our church: they are the underlying and over-arching support to our congregation.
Membership Report 2013
2013 Baptisms
Uma Jean Lynseko-Doraisamy, April 7, 2013
Pheona Mary Tatlock, July 21, 2013
2013 Weddings
Viola Mittelstadt and Randy Craig, June 23, 2013
Kenda Bath and Justin Currie, July 19, 2013
Alyxa Tatlock and Justen Hoetten, July 20, 2013
Lea Dodds and Ryan Martin, August 3, 2013
2013 Memorials
John Hopwood, February 12, 2013, Memorial May 18, 2013
Peter Howie, February, 2013
Kay Swanson, September 17, 2012, Memorial June 7, 2013
Dennis Carroll, June 1, 2013, Memorial June 12, 2013
William Kalyniuk, September 6, 2013, Memorial September 14, 2013
Ruth Chambers, September 8, 2013
Rosalie Gower, October 13, 2013, Memorial November 5, 2013
Scholarship Report 2013
Women’s Scholarship: Alli Buss $800
Brett Scholarship: Jennifer Matosevic $250
Allen Scholarship: Adam Berg $800
Church Community and Pastoral Care Report 2013
With care and sensitivity, the Pastoral Care Ministry Team promoted the wholeness of congregational members and worked with our minister to provide support to those in need. Members regularly visited those at home, in hospital and in Mountain Lake and Jubilee Manor residences, and at Christmas time, delivered poinsettias to forty of these folks. We sent cards expressing congratulations, care, concern and sympathy. When needed, members delivered frozen casseroles prepared by the Caring Casseroles Committee, arranged transportation to church events for those requesting it and provided other help as needed.
A group of people pray for specific and immediate concerns as part of a Prayer Circle.
The Prayer Shawl Ministry of congregational knitters has lovingly created 148 shawls with 127 recipients since starting 4 years ago.
In widening outreach, another team held a Newcomers' Dessert Party.
submitted by Diane Holt
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Nelson United Church Outreach Report 2013
Outreach Team worked throughout the first few months of 2013 to plan and hold the "Festival of Peace", held on the afternoon of April 27 and co-sponsored by the MIR Centre.
There was good attendance at NUC that day. Speakers included Randy Janzen, Madelyn McKay, Maddy Murphy and others. The Silver King Choir, Marion Bergevin, Soniko Waira and others sang for this event. Later, there was an open mike time to share thoughts, more music and poetry. A delicious potluck meal and happy, positive thoughts concluded the gathering.
Besides the Peace Festival, Outreach provided Sunday readings of United Church of Canada's Mission and Service stories during Lent and again at Advent.
Outreach has morphed into an 'ad hoc' group, taking on projects and giving help when the need arises.
Respectfully submitted, Joe Woodward
Trustees’ Annual Report - Ending Dec. 31, 2013
There were no significant concerns facing the trustees during the past year. Our financial position is stable and returns on investments are meeting our requirements to fund our portion of church costs.
We welcomed Tom Johnston as a new Trustee and with regret accepted the resignation of Richard Drew. Letters were sent to each.
The Trustees appreciate the dedication of the Church Board and management committee to the upkeep of the real and personal property of your church. At the same time we recognize the ongoing contributions to the church maintenance from the congregation at large.
On a more personal note I want to express my thanks to each of the Trustees for their dedication to the role of Trustee and its charge. They bring thoughtful and wise counsel to all matters before them. I am grateful for the astute financial contribution and advice of Mike Berg out treasurer and Elaine Henderson’s competent work as out secretary.
Your Trustees are:
Mike Berg Ralph Elliot
Mel Ferraro Elaine Henderson
Tom Johnston
Roy Nelson
Bess Rathbone
Bob Steed
825-9327
825-4354
352-6769
352-6180
352-7025
352-6208
352-9918
Respectfully Submitted by Roy Nelson deputy to act as chair
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NELSON UNITED CHURCH—TRUSTEES
BALANCE SHEET AS AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2013
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NELSON UNITED CHURCH
TRUSTEES’ ACCOUNTS
AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2013
NELSON UNITED CHURCH
NOTES TO TRUSTEES’ ACCOUNTS
AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2013
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A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God's world.
We believe in God:
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh,
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God's presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
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