2014 Annual Report - Northminster Presbyterian Church

NORTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
2014
ANNUAL
REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
Church Statistics
List of members of Northminster for 50 years or more
New Members joining in 2014
II.
Staff Reports
Pastor
Associate Pastor
Director of Outreach and Communications
Crosspoint Worship Director
Director of Christian Education
Church Business Administrator
Interim Director of Student Ministries
Director of the Family Life Center
Missions Director
Volunteer Coordinator
5
7
8
10
11
11
12
14
15
15
Ministry Units
A. Administrative Council Reports
Board of Trustees
Communications
Endowment
Nominating Committee
Planning, Budget & Stewardship Team
Staff Development
17
18
19
20
21
22
III.
2
3
4
B. Discipling Council Reports
Children and Family Ministry
Deacons
Discipleship Team
Fellowship
50+ Planning Team
Presbyterian Women
Student Ministry Team
Traditional Music Ministry
25
27
28
28
28
29
30
31
C. Missional Council Reports
Missional
Family Life Center
Troop Support Team
35
36
42
IV. Minutes of 2014 Congregational Meetings
45
V. Financial Reports 2014
Statement of Financial Position
Summary of General Receipts and Disbursements
Details of General Disbursements
Summary of Balances in Designated Funds and Reserves
Presbyterian Women
51
52
53
53
54
CHURCH STATISTICS
January 1, 2014
855 Active Members
Received by
Profession, Reaffirmation, Restored
Transfer
18
5
Dismissed by
Transfer
Death
Removed (inactivity, by request, etc.)
0
21
4
Membership, December 31, 2014
Members lost by death - 2014
Betty Becker
Elaine Eisert
Rose Casey
Verna Feith
Russell Champlin
Mickey Sellins Gibbs
Cliff Crane
Carolyn Gougeon
Margaret Dittmar
Doris Gould
Pat Earley
Baptisms
853 Active Members
Willa Hansen
Dell Harvey
Kelley Hickey
Ray Hummel
Wayne Neely
7 Child
1 Adult
Weddings
15
Funerals/Memorials 22
Church School Enrollment:
January 1, 2014
January 1, 2015
Number of Elders
18
Number of Deacons 30
Number of Trustees 9
2
952
831
Bob Reardon
Russ Schuster
Carl Seyfried
Ruth Summerly
Carolyn Tiersch
People who have been members
of Northminster Presbyterian Church
for 50 or more years
62 Years
Ruth Bache
Hubert & June Huelsebusch
Don & Carolyn Lincoln
61 Years
Emmy Myers
60 Years
Mildred Davis
Kathy Lemmerman
Jimmie McNulty
V.J. Schuster
Bettye Seyfried
59 Years
Bob & Vera Franks
Dottie High
58 Years
Vi Ruebel
Bill Troy
Lois Whitney
56 Years
Helen Abbott
Helen Buckshorn
Edie Fahr
Evans Foertmeyer
Joe & Allee Hamilton
Emmy Lou Hansen
Ben & Ginny Lawrence
Diane Shuler
Helen Wood
55 Years
Bill Gould
Dick Haberstroh
Eileen Hafer
Jim & Donna Hartman
Karl Kovach
Mary Lang
Nell Pasley
Evelyn Rentschler
Marilyn Spreen
Marion Thompson
54 Years
57 Years
James Bordicks
Nancy Brown
Allen Feith
Hazel Crosset
Bernie Humason
Dottie Eichenberger
Jean Kratohvil
Jim & Jan Golan
George & Marianne McLain
Summers & Jeannette Hageman Lewe & Mary Mizelle
June Kutzko
Mary Frances Roll
Audrey O’Connor
Stan & Pat Stanford
53 Years
Bob Earley
Bill & Marlene Falhaber
Dorothy Gase
Sandra Hill
Flo Kraushar
Charlene Mecklenburg
52 Years
Ed & Barbara Ebrite
Janet Newton
Louise Ramsey
Tom Speckman
Cindy Tabar
Carol Trent
Dick & Charlene Uhlenbrock
51 Years
Dana Glasgo
Nancy Grabo
James Newberne
Janice Rook
Toby Tolson, Jr.
Rosalind Walter
Doug Wood
50 Years
Al Campbell
John & Mary Gibson
Mert & Ruth Ann Heusinkveld
Hilda Hunter
3
New Members at
Northminster Presbyterian Church
In 2014
Linda Admire
Ray Bauman
Sharon Bauman
Charlene Breidster
Lois Bruck
Brady Brunsman
Ivan Byers
Janet Byers
Linda Carter
Lynda Caster
Thomas Dashley
Jim Dingle
Carol Drees
Paul Drees
Philip Fahr
Cami Kershner
Sara Kraner
Bob McMahan
Tara McMahan
Barbara Mecklenborg
Grace Plaut
Robert Wittenbach
Cindy Wolford
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REPORT OF THE PASTOR / HEAD OF STAFF
On the first day of January, 2014, I was bundled in many layers, but still shivering, during a trip to the
emergency room. My temperature, measured above 104° at home, was still over 103° when we arrived. I felt shockingly weak and my heart was beating so rapidly that I accepted a wheelchair ride into the ER. They quickly diagnosed H1N1 flu which had also turned into pneumonia. I was badly dehydrated and had experienced some febrile delirium. The wonderful staff administered fluids and antibiotics. They kept me long enough into the wee hours of the next day to ensure I was on the right
track. Meanwhile, my wife Bobbi had been the champion attendant, chauffeur, and comforter. And
she concurred with my request to go home rather than be admitted. After she got me settled into
bed at home, she drove to the other side of town to a 24-hour pharmacy to pick up the prescriptions I
would need. What an inauspicious start to the new year!
For one accustomed to being active and healthy, the beginning of 2014 was most humbling. Instead
of going to the hospital to visit others, I was being wheeled in, feeble and unfocused. I’d like to believe
that’s not my norm! It was more than a week before I resumed work activities, and several months
until I fully recovered my strength and stamina. However, the most frustrating aspect of that illness
was being forced to miss two funeral services for long-time, beloved church members. In more than
thirty-five years of pastoral ministry that was the only time I was not able to “answer the bell” for
such a major pastoral responsibility. The haunting disappointment reinforced in my heart the relationships in Christ that we share as pastor and congregation. Of course, the families involved were
most understanding and gracious. And my beloved colleague Nancy conducted those services with
her customary brilliance. Furthermore, in the isolation of recovery, I felt your prayers and support,
grateful for each card and message. In my vulnerability, I rested within the protection, the strong fortress that God erected around me by your care. In weakness, I sensed God’s strength coming from so
many of you. In my own grief, I witnessed the buoyancy and resilience of our faith community.
How thankful I am to share life with you at Northminster. Another example came in July, when I was
elated to lead my daughter and her husband through their wedding vows. And our family delighted in
sharing that occasion with so many of you at the open house reception for Rachel and Jeff Dollard on
the weekend of their wedding. Bobbi and I have had the pleasure of watching our three children
grow up, blessed by this congregation. We still hear them reflect on how this community encouraged
and shaped their faith. So it was exhilarating to fill the Fellowship Commons with Northminster love,
a spirit that again blessed our family, including my parents who were able to be in Cincinnati for the
first time in many years. I continue to marvel at the privilege and joy of serving Jesus Christ with you.
Clearly 2014 had profound highs and lows and everything in between. While forced to miss two funerals, I was still called to lead sixteen funerals or memorial services. I am continually alongside many
who are grieving. Often those relationships trace back twenty years, so I experience the loss very personally. Then, in the case of weddings, the joy is also magnified because the ties are strong, such as
the marriage of Ashley Ross and Claude Cassion. How about that—the weddings of two daughters of
the two NmPC pastors within two months in 2014!
The story of this past year includes challenges like the icy weather that forced cancellation of services
on the first Sunday of March. We have contended with strategic and financial questions related to
our future. We had a medical emergency for one of our mission team members, requiring an immediate return from Guatemala; that was one of the most memorable and harrowing days I’ve had in min5
istry. We held a prayer meeting that filled the library, surrounding a former staff member who returned to Cincinnati in the midst of crisis. We launched two new Councils of Session: Administrative
and Discipling. We adjusted our Sunday morning schedule, which is still being evaluated and tweaked.
The most significant alteration discontinued the 11:30 AM Crosspoint service. We hosted a meeting
of the Presbytery of Cincinnati, and I was invited to lead worship at another church in our presbytery
as they moved through a complicated, painful transition.
Of course, we have had our own staffing changes at Northminster. As Head of Staff, I worked with
the Session, the Staff Development Team, and other groups to discern and implement at least four
major changes. First, we developed a plan and timetable for Rich Jones to leave his Associate Pastor
position. This culminated nearly two years of discussion and reflection. In October we had a fabulous
celebration with Rich and Debbie and their family, thanking them for countless contributions to our
community. Then in November I was blessed to attend his installation as pastor at the nearby Immanuel Presbyterian Church. Second, we affirmed the work of Janelle Fair who’d been an intern for
the previous year. We proposed that she serve as the Interim Director of Student Ministries. She
took the reins of that program this fall with her typical energy. It has been wonderful to observe her
growing relationships with the middle school and high school students, as well as her enthusiastic collaboration with other staff and ministries at NmPC. Third, we rewrote the position description for
Troy Bronsink to maximize his strengths for outreach and communication. This was part of a larger
process of discerning our worship “portfolio” or offerings. The Discipling Council clarified the desired
style of each of the services, including a new, exploratory “Alternative Worship Gathering.” The
AWG, now “All Who Gather” as they renamed themselves, meets weekly on Sunday afternoons. Troy
is providing leadership for that fledgling group and their direction for the future. The other half of his
work is developing NmPC artwork, thematic communications, the weekly electronic newsletter, and
other ways to promote spiritual formation or discipleship. Finally, we recruited Jeff Holmes to fill the
part-time position of Crosspoint Director. Jeff is a talented musician who had served as the
Crosspoint intern, raising his own money to work with us while also finished his Master’s degree in
worship leadership. He’s off to a great start since September with his new responsibilities, coordinating details of the service, leading the band, and providing regular up-front leadership for
Crosspoint.
I still relish sharing God’s good news. Last year I prepared thirty-four new messages. Teaching opportunities are also precious; for example, I appreciated the forty people who wanted to spend eight
weeks studying Romans 12 together. And one hundred and fifty sixth-graders from Wyoming Middle
School came to our sanctuary with teachers and chaperones as part of their study of religion to hear
the basics of the Christian faith. How wonderful it was to administer a baptism renewal for one of
our members following the death of his mother, when it was so clear the Spirit of God was at work in
him. I rejoiced to add my signature to the mission partnership agreement with the new church in Coban, Guatemala. And I get to witness or participate in God’s loving work through NmPC all around
our city. One of the highlights this past year has been the Family Life Center progress toward a nonprofit corporation that will still be a featured local mission partnership with Northminster.
Start to finish, this has been a remarkable year, perhaps one of the most challenging leadership years
I have faced. Certainly it has been a year in which I have sensed the Lord fortifying, encouraging,
guiding, and renewing my call to ministry in the name of Jesus Christ. I thank God we get to band together as we seek to follow Him more closely in 2015.
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Jeff Hosmer
REPORT OF THE ASSOCIATE PASTOR
I was blessed to experience the profound goodness of the Lord in unusual and routine
situations this past year, and as always I begin a new year looking back and giving thanks to
God for this faithful congregation of long-time members, recent members and faithful friends
who try to live out their lives as followers of Jesus. And, I give thanks to God for the joy of
serving on such a gifted and committed staff and for the tremendous team of volunteers that
support Northminster ministries throughout the year.
The routine duties which filled the year for your associate pastor included: planning
weekly Sanctuary worship, serving as liaison with our dedicated Deacons, led by Karen Emig,
as well as Veteran Deacon and Congregational Visitor, Jim Dickerson, who serves faithfully as
a visitor to many who are in need, coordinating with our talented Sanctuary Musicians,
meeting with our New Member Classes, officiating at weddings, funerals and baptisms, and
preaching monthly.
The unusual “highlights” of 2014 for your associate pastor include:

Stepping into a new role as Convener of the Discipling Council; a council which
guides worship, discipleship, congregational care, fellowship, children and youth.
Working alongside dedicated elders and staff we have felt the Spirit’s guiding as we
have boldly made significant proposals to Session, which resulted in difficult changes
for many. Included in the changes were reducing our Sunday services from four to
three, eliminating the 11:30 service, which though small in number was important to
those who regularly worshipped there. We felt and heard the desires of worshippers
who wanted the chance to visit with pastors after the 9:00 service and so the Discipling Council proposed moving the 10:15 service back 30 minutes to 10:45, thereby
allowing much more time for those conversations to happen. This fall, we began initiating monthly gatherings for all ages, to encourage community building so that we
can be “inwardly strong”. Troy Bronsink, along with the Discipling Council, proposed
launching the Alternative Worship Group (AWG), an off-site group of people who
may or may not be connected to Northminster, or any church. This first year of the
Discipling Council has been challenging and at times incredibly exhilarating. I give
thanks for the commitment and faithful listening of the members of the DC. One of
the events planned by your Discipling Council was held on November 16 and was
called, “Dream Catchers”. This church-wide gathering on a Sunday evening drew
nearly 70 participants - with 7 decades represented! The participants young and old,
were asked to share their dreams for both inside the church building and their
dreams for outside our walls.
The 3 dominant themes shared focused on
1. Community (both building within our walls, as well as getting acquainted
with those in our neighborhood)
2. Meals (intergenerational meals inside our building, feeding the hungry,
addressing hunger in our neighborhood and a community garden)
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3. Multi-generational gatherings (including meals, Bible studies, faithsharing and service opportunities).
Northminster’s staff and elected leaders have heard the voiced dreams and are working to bring them to fruition.


Leading a group of 12 pilgrims to the island of Iona for a life-enriching Holy Week experience. The group met monthly at our home for a meal, group building, trip planning and study. Our book for study was “Listening for the Heartbeat of God”, by J.
Phillip Newell. Once on Iona, our team lived in community with others from around
the world, and together we washed dishes, cleaned bathrooms, planned worship,
baked bread, led services, met in sessions for teaching and study, explored the tiny
island and engaged in countless conversations and random walks alongside our newfound friends in Christ. It was a marvelous experience. Thanks be to God! Our team
was glad to welcome John Bell from the Iona Community to Northminster in September. John led a city-wide seminar on Saturday and preached in our services on Sunday
morning. A church-wide dinner was held on Sunday night, during which the Iona
team presented their report; with banafee pie for dessert, the evening was a sweet
ending to this first Iona Pilgrimage for Northminster.
Directing our 12th Choir Camp! This year’s camp proved again, to be a highlight of the
summer! Over 100 campers and high school CIT’s led us in worship in August as they
shared the story of “Adam’s Apple”. Speaking for the other staff Choir Camp leaders,
Mary Hensey and Lissa Ray, we are humbled and amazed at the way the community
turns out to support this week of music, friendships, fun and learning. Thanks to God
for the wonderful team of staff and volunteer adults who make this week possible!
DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATIONS
What a year this has been for Northminster’s Outreach! Many outreaches well beyond
my purview, such as Wizkids, Student Ministries, and Family Life Center, have seen growth and
development. But it has been my privilege to specifically oversee the development of the AWG.
What began as an idea by the name of “Alternative Worship Gathering” has now taken on a
personality, weekly habits, a lead team, and we’re now called “All Who Gather.” In September
the session commissioned Rev Troy Bronsink to spend 7 months building a team to lead an alternative approach to worship that would be intentionally conversational, inclusive, and built
upon spiritual prayer practices. At the time of this annual report we are half way through that
journey.
Our initial goal was a team of 12 gathering weekly, and were surprised when 18 interested individuals varied in race, age, orientation, and faith backgrounds, joined arms to begin the
seven month incubation. Our next goal was a retreat with goals and initial planning for pro8
grams and stewardship, which went off with great success thanks to the help of AWG leader
Carolyn Grant and many others. We began to describe our hopes for how we might grow as a
community in the Way of Jesus seeking to bless Northern Cincinnati, and Northminster.
The next goal was an event for 30 and we were thrilled to have 34 people at a public
Advent event called, “Just Breathe.” The evening was held at the Springfield Township Senior
and Arts Center, and everyone pitched in to make a great night, Deb Shelton adding her artistic touches! Then, at the initiative of our student members, we collected gifts for two local
families in need: one surviving a house fire, another unemployed due to multiple expensive
surgeries. It was such a joy to see kids and adults work together to be the church, organizing
relief and delivering assistance in person!
On Epiphany Sunday we partnered with Northside Abbey at the Bronsink’s house for
Beer and Hymns and had over 45 adults plus almost a dozen scurrying children as we sang old
hymns, played instruments, fellowshipped and enjoyed some local craft beers.
Our weekly gatherings happen in homes across Finneytown, Wyoming, Northside and
even Clifton. We benefitted greatly from the childcare provided by Alicia McMichael and others. Sept-December our weekly gatherings entailed discussing the book of Acts and the structure of community. We practiced centering prayer, sang songs old and new, communed over
meals and discussed our callings, faith and doubts, and prayed for one another. As a pastoral
presence I’ve also had the privilege of join families in their day-to-day lives of marriage, family, job searches, to provide counsel and spiritual direction and to mark those moments as they
take steps of faith or take up transformational habits.
The first quarter of 2015 will bring some new opportunities, including other public
events, an Ash Wednesday service, and weekly Lenten worship gatherings. During that time
the group will be learning leadership skills, and spiritual disciplines to enable us to scale this
model and invite others into Christian community. Come Easter the participants who cocreate the AWG as well as the Discipling Council, who oversees outreach and worship for
Northminster, will begin discerning what Summer programming and a Fall launch would entail. A lot will be known then that we still cannot fully predict at this point—possibilities ranging from a new weekly Northminster Sunday worship offering to a cluster of house churches
to a church plant of some sort.
Please keep us in your prayers as 2015 begins. And, now as we are hopefully more developed in our habits of hospitality, please drop in some Sunday evening with a friend (maybe
someone uninterested in conventional church) and check out “All Who Gather” for yourselves.
It is such a joy to be forming new fresh things thanks to the vision and support of the
session and leadership here at Northminster!
Troy Bronsink
Director of Outreach and Communication
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CROSSPOINT WORSHIP DIRECTOR
Carrying the Banner:
This year has certainly been a continued year of change and formation for Crosspoint. I had
the privilege of coming on board during the summer of 2013 as an intern to work with Troy
and the Staff. Since then I have had an inside look at the formation of Crosspoint’s worship
language. It is wonderful to see the congregation learning to express itself in many different
ways of prayer practices, conversations, testimony to God’s work the lives of so many of our
church family, and an ever broadening repertoire of music. Troy carried the mantle of leadership for Crosspoint until the fall of 2014, at which point God moved in our leaders and members to launch the AWG as a way to reach those who might not feel comfortable getting to
know God and worshipping within the walls of the church. Troy’s transition to leading that
initiative left a gap in Crosspoint which God led me to step into.
Summer Changes:
This summer, the Discipling Council made the decision to eliminate the 11:30 Crosspoint service. I know this was a hard decision for those who relied on the later service to allow for
some Sabbath Rest. I greatly appreciate the sacrifice that many have made to continue worshipping with the Crosspoint family at 9:00, and I understand that the need for God’s rest has
led some to worship at the later Sanctuary service or at other later services. I know that
wherever you choose to worship, we worship the same Lord! At 9:00 in Crosspoint, we continue to strive to make space for those who may come to encounter the Spirit of our Lord and
grow in relationship with him.
Continued Goals for Crosspoint:
Having heard the need for more accessible music, Troy and the leadership team began cycling
back into our repertoire what we call “Crosspoint Classics” which span the history of
Crosspoint. We continue to work toward having music which is singable and communicates
the fullness of God’s great story. We are also trying to be intentional about having space for
teaching and practicing the spiritual disciplines that were introduced over the past two years.
My hope and prayer is that these practices, such as Lectio Divina, Breath Prayer, and Body
Prayer become part of our worshipper’s life during the week and that they would be listening
for where and how the Spirit is speaking and moving. We also want to continue encouraging
Crosspoint attendees to see themselves as co-creators of worship. Worship is the action of
God’s people, both those up front and those in chairs. Worship is not a spectator sport! So I
trust you are bringing your full self to worship “in Spirit and in Truth.”
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Looking toward the future:
I’d love to share with you some of my hopes and dreams for the future of Crosspoint! I would
love to see everyone using their gifts in building the kingdom. That may or may not be in
Crosspoint itself, but I hope the joy of the work will be shared with our Crosspoint family. I
dream of Crosspoint members reading Scripture, leading prayers, worshipping in ways ancient
and new, singing songs both familiar and from other cultures – that we might co-create a
space where those different than us would feel welcome and valued. And I dream of seeing
you share your dreams and together bring them into reality. The Kingdom of Heaven is near,
it is now. What will it look like as we dream and build together?
Jeff Holmes
CHURCH BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR
(See Board of Trustees Report on page 17)
DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY
Northminster continues to strive for excellent programs that help to develop spiritual
growth in children and their families. That commitment is revealed every day through Sunday
morning worship, Sunday school, quality nursery care, mid-week programs, preschool, Whiz
Kids and other outreach opportunities. Reaching out into the neighborhoods is the goal for
the Children and Family Team and me, as the director, as we approach a new year and new
opportunities.
Programs for children are continuing to encourage and nurture the spiritual development for our youngest Northminster participants. The elementary Sunday school curriculum
continues to be quite successful and the children are learning in many different ways. With a
focus on the teachings of Jesus, curriculum has been specially selected to support the congregation wide effort. Preschool children have care and learning at the 9:00 and 10:45 services.
Infants and toddlers are loved and cared for by dedicated volunteers and our Nursery Coordinator, Diane Siegel. The addition of a fellowship time has given children and their parents the
opportunity to engage with members between services. Some parents have found the extended time a challenge but others have embraced the opportunity to share fellowship with
people from multiple services. Music is regularly scheduled for children in 1st through 5th
grade on Sunday morning.
Other programs meet the needs of families through Dinner Time Rescue, Children’s Coop and the start of a book discussion group. Furthering the mission of Northminster is the
motivation for program decisions made by the team. It is amazing to see the number of children and their families who are blessed in a variety of ways.
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Mid-week programs for children have included Bible study, music, worship leadership
and fellowship. Children in 1st -5th grades meet with their peers for classes geared for their
specific age and developmental stage. The Children’s Co-op is an effective link between
Northminster and the community. The addition of two new classes has brought more young
families into the building. This has opened up opportunities to invite and include the families
into the worshipping and program life of Northminster With five committed teachers and the
support of the church family, children and their families are being ministered to everyday.
Northminster has become an integral part of the Whiz Kids tutoring program in the Finneytown school district. My involvement increased in 2014 as I became the staff liaison between the church and the program. The Lead Team meets at Northminster monthly and I
serve on that team, schedule and plan for the Bible story component each week, support the
program coordinators, make purchases on behalf of the Finneytown program with consultation of the Missional Council. Long range planning is underway as the needs of the program,
coordinators and children are changing.
In an effort to insure the safety and protection of all children and youth, I have been an
integral member of a team looking at the Northminster Child Protection Policy. It has been in
the development stage for a year. I feel that the policy will be ready for a final Session vote in
February. New safeguards are in place that have been included in the policy. Background
checks are conducted on all adults who provide childcare or teaching at any time at Northminster. Windows have been installed in office doors where the staff member would have
contact with minors.
As a new Council system was developed, I have been participating in the Discipling
Council. As a staff member I represent the needs of the children and their families. I have also worked closely with the survey and data interpretation concerning the Sunday morning
schedule.
I continue to listen for God’s call and direction for this ministry. It is a privilege to be a
member of the worshipping community and staff of Northminster.
Mary Hensey
Children and Family Ministry
REPORT FROM THE INTERIM DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MINISTRY
There has been one major theme that has continually surfaced in my life and in the life
of Northminster Student Ministry this past year; change and the opportunities that arise from
it. When I mentally page through the months of 2014, it is remarkable to see where we have
been, what we have done, where God has been in all of it, and how it was all made possible
through the love and support shown to us during this transitional year.
And that is exactly what it has been; a time of transition. We pushed through January to
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August with energy and momentum from the past 13 year of leadership that Rich Jones’ has
dedicated to our program, all the while recognizing that as of September, 2014, a new chapter
of his journey would begin as God was calling him elsewhere in his ministry. NSM has truly
been blessed by the stability and love Rich has poured into students, and we know his gifts and
passions are taking him great places.
With his departure NSM began navigating a transitional period as I became the Interim
Director of Student Ministry; and it has been a blast! We began by re-evaluating our resources,
our program, tweaking old programs and adding new, and we bull-dozed full force into a new
ministry plan. I could not have asked for better student leaders, adult leaders, and other NSM
Team members who creatively embraced this opportunity God has given us to explore our ministry.
There are four main objectives that comprised who and what we feel God is guiding
NSM to be. The objectives are:




To make disciples and deepen the faith of our youth.
 NSM aims to look at what it means to be a Christian in our world today and how
faith and life relate, tackling the deeper questions to help students grow in their
faith in practical ways.
To be multi-generational and fully intergraded with other ministries and the community life of the church.
 This is through whole church events (which are now included into our Sunday
evening programming once a month like the Iona Sharing Night and Journey To
Bethlehem), service projects, mission trips, interacting with leaders, etc. Our goal
is to share our gifts with the larger church body and community, as well as take
advantage of the gifts and opportunities God offers us through others.
To be a service centered program.
 Every month we try to incorporate some sort of service event. This gets us out
helping others in our community and learning what it feels like to be the hands
and feet of Christ.
To be built on relationships
 We want to continue to be a relational ministry and we recognize the importance
of interacting with others and how God uses that to draw us closer to Him while
building foundations for further growth in faith. This happens through our invested and valued leaders who meet students where they are at, by creating the space
for relationships to flourish in a safe atmosphere, and by inviting God to be present in all relational interactions.
These four objectives listed above then grew and morphed into the model and basic
foundation we are using to stabilize and grow our ministry. In September we started doing a
service project once a month. These have included projects like landscaping work around the
church, Christmas Caroling and delivering Christmas cookies in the neighborhood, participating
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in the Spring’s Clean-Up day, and taking a group to the local Thanksgiving Box Project.
Another change that has developed out of our goals has been our involvement in church
wide activities. For instance, our youth and leaders served dinner and then participated in the
Iona sharing night, attended Rich Jones’ Celebration Dinner, served dinner for the “Dream
Catchers” event, and were active participants in the Journey to Bethlehem. It has made my
heart smile to see the enthusiasm from the youth to participate in these multi-generational
events, as well as been such a blessing to have the rest of the congregation so eagerly welcome our program and students. God is doing great things at Northminster!
On the weeks where NSM is not out serving or participating in Church Events we have
our “normal” Sunday Evening Programming. These have also taken a difference face this fall.
We have combined our middle school and high school programming. This is partly due so we
can best utilize the time of our leaders, but also to build momentum in the programming.
While the games, worship, and message are given to both groups at the same time, we then
split into grade and gender designated small groups each led by a volunteer adult leader. This
allows us to dive deeper into our faiths as well as creates a safe and accountable group for the
students to open up and get real with their faith.
So, as you can tell there are a lot of new things happening with NSM! And honestly,
change can be scary at times. But I believe that we encounter times of change to remind us
how important it is to let God be in control, to allow him to guide us, and then to experience
all of the wonderful blessings he gifts us with; most of which are better than our own minds
could have ever imagined.
My life has been deeply impacted by NSM and Norhtminster this past year. I truly have
found a family in the comfort of this community which has allowed me to embrace many my
own personal changes. In the last 12 months I have moved into my own apartment (many
thanks to Jerry Fischer and her family for hosting me this past year!), purchased my first car on
my own, made the pilgrimage to Iona with Nancy and the gang, obtained a new job title, gone
on a mission trip to Philadelphia which brought back old memories as well as created new,
formed new relationships, made the transition from softball player to softball coach, discovered what it feels like to have to pay bills (still not liking this one), and I uncovered new things
about myself and my leadership that never would have happened if God had not lead me here.
Northminster Student Ministry is growing, it is establishing who it wants to be in the
eyes of God, and most of all it is having fun! We have an outstanding group of youth and volunteers who continually surprise me with their love and dedication to their faith, their eagerness
to grow and serve, and it is guaranteed that any interaction with them will bring a smile to
your face.
Thank you again for all of your love and support; God has great things in store for us this
next year.
In God’s love,
Janelle Fair
Interim Director of Student Ministry
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DIRECTOR OF THE FAMILY LIFE CENTER
It has been my privilege this year to work with a gifted and generous team toward the
next phase of the Family Life Center’s life. The team has worked hard alongside me, meeting
twice a month for most of the year, discerning a new vision, a new name, a new kind of relationship with Northminster and a new operational model.
It’s also been a blessing to have the Missional Council (Laurie Laning, Gary Lord, Jan Rue,
Harry Stone, John Williams and Jeff Hosmer along with FLC Team chair Dan Winters) as a tremendous resource group. They have also been a source of encouragement in the more challenging moments and have generously met with the FLC Team several times this year!
I would be remiss if I did not mention what a blessing the coach training I’ve received
over the last three years has been. Little did I know in 2010, when I asked the Staff Development Team to carry over my Professional Development funds to afford the training, that in
2014 we would find so many applications at the FLC. As you’ll read in the Family Life Center’s
report, we have several coaching groups going – and more are on the way!
As we transition into Journey to Hope in 2015, it is my prayer that all of our activity
serves to glorify and honor God. May His purposes be served as we seek to promote health,
positive relationships, and provide support for life’s transitions to our greater Cincinnati community!
Soli Deo Gloria,
Diane Kinsella
MISSIONAL DIRECTOR
(see Missional Council Reports on page ???)
VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR
The year of 2014 has been a year of transition. Our "very actively involved" volunteer
coordinator, Kathy Dolle, resigned her position in early 2014, as she needed to focus her energy on her family - and she has been greatly missed - much gratitude for all that she is and all
that she's done.
As a busy church with a vibrant presence, our group of volunteers is essential to our mission. That said, 2014 posed many challenges from a volunteer standpoint - from an aging population to people on the move - our volunteer base is not as robust as it once was. This puts a
strain on those who give so much of their time to fulfill the volunteer needs of our church.
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We have been fortunate to have these dedicated people step forward to help in programs such as Whiz Kids, VBS, Choir Camp, office assistance, the Angel Tree and hosting the
Presbytery meeting - to name just a few.
But, for Northminster to be true to its mission of being Inwardly Strong and Outwardly
Focused - we need the next generation of volunteers to feel God's call to the program life of
our church.
Look around on a Sunday morning, stop by during the week - be aware of those helping
at church events - and picture yourself enjoying the joy, fellowship and community that volunteering provides. You won't be sorry.
Kate Eberlein.
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Northminster Trustees ere very engaged with Multiple projects to keep the church
property in sound condition.
Many thanks to the congregation members who ever night assured the property was
locked and secure. Thanks also to the trustees who collected and secured all funds and each
service.
Additional plans carried:

Heavy snow continued in to January, resulting in an additional $4,000 in expenses for
know removal and salting. The colder than normal weather also adversely impacted
our gas and electric bills.

The roofs on the shed and scout barn were replaced at a cost of $2,000.

We completed the exterior re-glazing and painting of the windows in Founders’ Hall.
This labor intensive project involved 256 window panes at a cost of $4,300.

This summer you may have seen the large lift in front of the Sanctuary. Our maintenance manager, Mike Houston, with the volunteer help of Bobby Emig tackled the
painting and caulking of the Sanctuary steeple. In addition, with the help of volunteer
and paid labor, much of the white trim on the building facing Compton Road as well as
the Sanctuary and Founders’ Hall pillars were painted. Total cost $6,000.

It was a good year or our heating and air equipment. With the exception of the replacement of the control panel on our boiler, no major repairs were necessary.

Because of the funds pledged and contributed during our capital campaign last fall, we
were able to re-pave the west parking lot. The cost was $52,000.

The Trustees completed an Emergency Action Plan for Northminster which was approved this fall. The comprehensive plan covers Fire, Evacuation procedures, Intruders,
and identifies all emergency exits, and equipment locations (ADE; Fire extinguishers;
First Aid Kits]. All staff and ushers have received copies of the plan. Additional electronic copies are available through trustees or the office.
Memorial Committee

New Hammers for Sanctuary Grand Piano $1,800.

Passports for the “Follow Me” program $737.00

Stamps for passport for the “Follow Me” program $58.58

Wooden Advent Set $200.00
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TRUSTEES
Ralph Sinks
Lynne Steel
Deb Wriston
Ron AcAfee
Gary Miller
Tom Turner
Jim Long
Cliff Mecklenburg
Dale Hinrichs
Gary Lord, Session Representative
Thanks to all NmPC members who participated in the projects and expecially Steve Jacobs and
Kevin Albrecht
Gary G. Miller, Trustee President
COMMUNICATIONS AND CURATION
In June of 2104 the communication committee set four objectives:
1. promote communication that is multi-directional
2. establish our brand identity and ‘style’ book.
3. promote a unified brand.
4. use communication methods that enable leadership to intentionally listen.
Several small steps have been taken in this direction but larger ones will unfold in 2015.
The Communication Committee, led for six years by elder Linda Coffman, was dissolved in
September 2014 with the desire to form an advisory team that can assist the staff (Director of
Outreach and Communications (DOC), the Technology Director, and Communications Administrative Assistant) in developing and benchmarking goals within these four objectives. That
advisory team is still being formed and will convene within the first quarter under the leadership of Troy Bronsink (DOC) and reporting to Discipling Council.
In 2014 we implemented a church-wide email news service beginning with daily Lenten
devotionals and then transitioning to weekly eNews. The curators developed the
“Experiencing God: Words to Explore our Faith” series with weekly social media inputs using
Instagram and Facebook that were posted along the walls of Founder’s Hall. This was followed
by the “Postcards from the Edge” series in which congregants took cards about Generosity,
Surprise, Joy, among others, and mailed them back to the church from home or vacation to
report on God’s work in our wider world. This multi-directional approach to church communication was integrated with the weekly eNews, Facebook, and well as sermons. Susan Smith
helped display new cards and their content in the commons and on the website as they arrived as well.
The fall series of “Followers of the Way: Practices of Solitude, Community and Ministry”
was a major step towards our alignment objective as student and adult education emphasized
the same subjects and practices were added to weekly worship in Crosspoint to help the con18
gregation deeply engage the challenge to take up practices in all three of these areas.
Then in Advent we launched a 13-month-long series entitled “Follow Me: Journey with
Jesus” following the Gospel of Matthew as an entire congregation. Original artwork was displayed throughout Founder’s Hall. Supporting the series, worship participants in all worship
services were given passports to serve as year-long journals to note their developing understanding of who Jesus is and what God’s kingdom is. This was met with huge initial success as
over 500 passports have already been picked up in worship. These additional worship materials were printed thanks to the Northminster Memorial Fund.
2015 will continue the “Follow Me” series, with the monthly passport journaling as well
as stamps to mark each new subseries. In addition, the church will develop its next picture directory (first in 5 years) and begin to further integrate web and print materials to reflect the
unified brand and overall discipleship goals of the church. There is much to be done in engaging social media and in deepening the multidirectional learning that innovative medium provides. Please continue to follow us and provide feedback on Facebook, to visit the website, and
to subscribe to and engage in our weekly eNews. These, in addition to the conventional tools
of the Grapevine and bulletin, are designed to further our congregation’s objectives: growing
faith, sharing hope, and showing love.
Troy Bronsink
Director of Outreach and Communications
ENDOWMENT FUND REPORT
Gifts to the Endowment Fund can be given for any reason, but most donations to the
Fund come as memorial gifts, wills, bequests, or ongoing planned contributions. The church's
Endowment Fund Team invests these gifts with the objective being to preserve the invested
principle and use the investment income to provide grants to support specific church projects.
Any church member can request a grant and these requests will be considered by the Endowment Fund Team with grant awards being given to those projects which the team feel best support the ongoing mission of the church. The current Endowment Fund Balance is approximately $686,000. Grants made in 2014 include $1,100 to support training for the Family Life Center
Director, $7,000 to remedy the acoustics in the Fellowship Commons, and $27,000 to support
the Capital Campaign. The funds have been invested in Presbytery Foundation Mutual funds to
date, but the team plans to actively engage experts and evaluate other investment options that could be considered for the future. Members of the Endowment Team include: Advisors- Ben Lawrence, Jim Golan, and Wally Holzman; Staff- Steve Jacobs; and Members- David
Addison, Mike Brooks, Pat Hasler, Karen Albrecht, Greg Coffman, and Kay Carran.
Submitted by David Addison for the Endowment Fund Team
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NOMINATING COMMITTEE
With prayer for guidance, patience, and discernment, the Nominating Committee placed the
following individuals into nomination. The congregation unanimously elected the nominees at
the September 28, 2014 congregational meeting. May they serve with passion?
CLASS OF 2015
Deacons
Bob Brockfield (2nd term)
CLASS OF 2017
Deacons
Sharon Bauman
Kathryne Brockfield (2nd term)
Claire Dingle
Bob Friedhoff (2nd term)
Marcia Jones
Alice Lee
Joyce Merritt (2nd term)
Rich Reder (2nd term)
Shirley Reder (2nd term)
Elders
Jim McGrath
Elders
Don Bahr
Kim Besserman
Dave Decker
Karen Friedhoff
Rick Merritt
Noele Williams
Trustees
Al Neumann
Marilyn Schwarz
Ervena Weingartner
Endowment Fund
Karen Albrecht (2nd term)
David Addison (2nd term)
CLASS OF 2015 Nominating Committee
Elected by the congregation:
Representatives:
Bobbi Hosmer
Jeff Hosmer, Staff Liaison
Denise Swearingen
Karen Friedhoff (Elder)
nd
Jan Golan (2 term)
Carolyn Geglein (Veteran Elder)
nd
Richard Haberstroh (3 term)
Trustees Representative
nd
Mark Kremzar (2 term)
Deacon Representative
Additionally, the following were previously elected on January 26, 2014 to immediately fill unexpired terms: Sue Ahlrichs to fill a one-year unexpired Elder term, Diane Milazzo, for a twoyear unexpired Deacon term (Class of 2015), and Dave Addison to fill a one-year unexpired
term on the Endowment Fund Committee (Class of 2014). Jan Rue was elected at the May 4,
2014 congregational meeting to serve an unexpired Elder term (Class of 2015), as well as Mark
Kremzar and Jan Golan to serve unexpired terms on the 2014 Nominating Committee.
The following nomination will be respectfully submitted during the Annual Congregational
Meeting on January 25, 2015: Janet Tobin, Class of 2017 Deacon.
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The Nominating Committee continues its ongoing effort to seek and identify potential officer
nominees. Each church member is encouraged to suggest at any time anyone who would be a
good nominee for us to consider. Suggesting a family member or any other faithful and committed church member (including yourself) is acceptable and encouraged.
Respectfully submitted,
2014 Nominating Committee:
Nancy Brown, Kay Connell, Jan Golan, Richard Haberstroh, Mark Kremzar,
Carolyn Geglein (Elder), Laura Horn (Co-Chair), Jeff Hosmer (Staff Liaison),
Tom Spindler (Deacon), Jim Long (Trustee)
PLANNING, BUDGET & STEWARSHIP TEAM
The Planning, Budget, and Stewardship Team (PBS) is responsible for long range planning
and setting budget priorities while monitoring the monthly progress of our financial statements. In addition, the team plans and executes the annual stewardship campaign .
Team members this year included Greg Gibson (elder co-chair), Ralph Sinks (Trustee),
Jeff Hosmer (head of staff), Steve Jacobs (business administrator), Gary Miller (President of
Trustees), David Addison (chair of Endowment), John Zimmermann and Doug Smucker (Staff
Development Team co-chairs), Sean McCabe (technology team chair), Jim Golan, and Ron
Stoerker (elder co-chair).
The capital improvement campaign raised a total of $423,000. We recommended to Session the following allocation of funds: building and grounds $232,000, technology $161,000,
and the mission project in Guatemala $30,000. A general scope of projects was defined in each
area but the prioritization and timing of the projects will remain with the Trustees and technology team. The Mission Council will monitor the progress and use of funds in Guatemala. It is
generally recognized that the total funding for these projects will exceed the available funds
creating the need to further refine the list of projects or seek additional funding. The final decision in all cases rests with Session.
The stewardship campaign this year, Followers of the Way, focused on choices we need
to make in 2015 and beyond. While our membership is steady, Sunday morning attendance
and number of pledges are decreasing presenting the need to make hard choices in the future.
The Session will begin a strategic planning process in early 2015 to set priorities which will lay
the foundation for those choices.
The financial decision making at Northminster needs to be a more collaborative process.
That is why the PBS team included representatives from Trustees, technology, and Endowment.
In addition, we have not been able to fully devote attention to the stewardship area because of
other demanding items requiring time and commitment. Therefore, we recommended to Ses21
sion a different financial planning team beginning in 2015. The Administration Council will be
the new financial team with 2 elders specifically assigned to be the point persons. The stewardship responsibilities will be assumed by the Discipleship Council. As a result, the current
PBS team will cease to exist at the end of 2014.
Respectfully submitted,
Ron Stoerker and Greg Gibson, Co-chairs
STAFF DEVELOPMENT TEAM
The Staff Development Team (SDT) effectively functions as the human resource arm of
Northminster Presbyterian Church. Northminster continues to blessed by God with a wonderful team of staff members which works well together and exemplifies our aim to be “internally
strong and outwardly focused.”
The major SDT events during 2014 included a number of transitions:





In January, John Zimmerman and Doug Smucker joined the SDT as new co-chairs. We
thank Rich Schafermeyer, previous SDT chair, who graciously remained on the team
for a number of months in 2014 to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
After months of prayer and discussion, the SDT announced in May that Rich Jones,
Associate Pastor to Students and Families, would be leaving the staff of Northminster
by the end of 2014. With tremendous gratitude, the congregation gathered on October 12 to celebrate more than 13 years of the wonderful ministry of Rich and Debbie
Jones at Northminster, and rejoiced with Rich in his acceptance of a new call to ministry that began October 19 as Pastor of Immanuel Presbyterian Church in Clifton.
After serving the first year of her 2-year assignment as a Student Ministry Intern, we
were very pleased to hire Janelle Fair as the full-time Interim Director of Student Ministries beginning September 1.
We guided a revision in Troy Bronsink’s position description to become the Director of
Outreach and Communication beginning September 1. In this newly developed position, Troy directs communication efforts for the congregation, and is leading the development of an alternative worship group (current named “All Who Gather”) as part
of the revised Northminster worship portfolio approved by Session in 2014.
We also created a new position description entitled Crosspoint Worship Director, and
were blessed to hire Jeff Holmes to fill this part-time position beginning September 1.
In addition to preparing and overseeing the personnel budget for Northminster, the SDT
manages annual reviews for full- and part-time staff. The following table lists all 18 paid staff as
of December 31, 2014. Each staff member is assigned an SDT liaison for staff support and annual review:
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Full-Time Staff Members
Jeff Hosmer
Nancy Ross-Zimmerman
Troy Bronsink
Mary Hensey
Janelle Fair
Diane Kinsella
Steve Jacobs
Susan Smith
Trudy Teemley
Mike Houston
Position
Pastor and Head of Staff
Associate Pastor
Director of Communication and Outreach
Director of Children and Family Ministries
Interim Director of Student Ministries
Family Life Center Director
Church Adminstrator
Office Manager
Ministry Assistant
Manager of Maintenance
Part-Time Staff Members
Jeff Holmes
Rob Eberhardt
Marianne Lord
Karen Balogh
Lissa Ray
Gary Tyler
Carolyn Miller
Diane Siegel
Position
Crosspoint Worship Director
Technical Director
Financial Secretary
Organist
Bell Choir Director and Children’s Music Director
Music Assistant
Music Assistant
Nursery Coordinator
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CHILDREN AND FAMILY MINISTRY
We are pleased to report:
Nursery and Sunday School
The Team continues to staff and oversee the Infant/Toddler Nursery, 2’s and 3’s
class and 4’s and kindergarten class, elementary Sunday School, Kid’s Connect
and Caring Activities. Parents, teens and others lead the 9:00 Kid’s Connect
class. Sunday school for elementary children meets at 10:45 in two classes: Rich
and Linda Humason in the 1-3 grade class and Debbie Jones, Laura McGrath and
Beth Cahill in the 4-5 grade class through May and Teri Spindler taught the 1-3
grades beginning in the fall. Laura McGrath has continued with the 4th and 5th
grade students. Our 11:30 Kid’s Connect ended when the Sunday morning
schedule changed in the summer. The elementary children are now using a new
curriculum, Walk with Me that focuses on the life of Jesus. The preschool children are still using Gospel Light. Aly Williamson, Finneytown High School student
continues teaching the preschool/kindergarten class each week. Laura Holmes
started teaching the toddler Sunday school class this fall when long time teacher,
Emily Pine left to work with Americorp. We feel so blessed to have permanent
teachers in place for all of our Sunday school classes. Lissa Ray, Children’s Music
Director, continues to lead the children in singing, instruments and movement.
Children help lead in worship several times through the year.
Diane Siegel continues as the Nursery Coordinator, providing consistent care for children during the services. Diane works with parents and other volunteers to create and safe and positive childcare environment. She also helps with scheduling
and staffing our infant, toddler and preschool/kindergarten classes.
Summer Programs
The summer programs included Vacation Bible School and Choir Camp. VBS was
very successful again this year. Our theme was SonTreasure Island. We had
many children from the community as well as northern Kentucky. Northminster
continues to bless families by being able to offer VBS at no cost to families. The
children donated $200.00 to our treasure chest. That money was sent to the PC
USA – Gift of the Heart to provide school kits to children impacted by natural disasters. Preschool Summer Camp was held for three weeks during June and July.
These themed camp weeks were very successful. Choir Camp was another huge
success this year. Mary Hensey provides the leadership for the Bible study component. Many parents and teens volunteer to help make this an extremely successful program.
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Mid-Week Programs
JAM Club and Club 45 meets in 3 sessions through the year. After a big
“graduation” of 6th graders our numbers fell back some. Even with the reduced
numbers the groups have developed a close bond and are growing in their faith.
We were blessed to have Wednesday night dessert provided by our friend “Miss
Beth” Mizelle. This mid-week offering for elementary children is meeting a huge
need for Northminster and area children. All groups have Bible study, Games,
Music and Dinner.
Bible study for 4th and 5th grade girls continues twice a month. The group of 6-8
girls meets for study, fellowship, crafts and snacks.
Inter-generational
A new program was introduced for the kickoff of the Advent season. Call to Bethlehem gave an opportunity for participants to join the caravan with Mary, Joseph,
and the shepherds to travel to Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus. Four stations
were created to portray the various encounters along the way. Each station included scripture reading, dialogue and music. Stations were located both inside
and outside the building. The caravan concluded in the sanctuary with a complete tableau and carol sing. Dinner was a simple supper provided by Craig Zimmerman. The program was well attended and will be considered for Advent
2015.
Children’s Co-op
Northminster Children’s Co-op serves children and families in the community
with a high quality preschool program. This Co-op continues as a quality rated
program. The Co-op again held a Donuts with Santa event in early December.
The event is always well attended and brings many community members into the
building. The Co-op added an additional 2 day a week 2’s program in addition to
the 2 day Mixed age class. This brings children into the building all five days of
the work week. Many new families are being exposed to a quality early education program and into our facility. Teaching assistants were hired for all classes
except the 2’s. Mary Hensey provides Chapel Time every Friday morning for the
Co-op children. Chapel Time includes a Bible story and prayer and takes place in
the classrooms.
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Families
The difficult decision to discontinue the Mops program was reached by the Mops
Steering Team in May. The program was not attracting enough interest to justify
the impact on budget, space and time. Families are being reached through meal
planning and a book discussion group that are currently in place or occurring in
early 2015. Intentional relationship building is occurring with Co-op families as
well as Whiz Kid families. The Children and Family Team is continually looking for
ways to support the needs of families in our congregation and community.
Team News
The Children’s Ministry Team continues to provide strong leadership for all children’s programs. We look forward to serving the children of our congregation
and community for many years.
The Children and Family Ministry Team
Mary Hensey, staff
Ervena Weingartner
Gina Brooks
Sara Ruffner
Diane Siegel
Teri Spindler
DEACONS
Thirty people served on the Northminster Board of Deacons to provide compassionate
care for Northminster members in 2014.
The Ministry Team is composed of twenty-two (22) deacons. These deacons focus on
an assigned group (or "zone") of church families, contacting each family several times
throughout the year by making phone calls, sending cards or notes, and visiting with members
of our congregation. They delivered flowers and meals throughout the year, and provided
food for funerals and receptions when needed. Our Vice-Moderator, Tom Spindler, provided
back-up support for Deacons who were out of town.
Other Deacons make up the Service Team. Service Team members also delivered flowers, maintained the prayer chain, provided meals for those who had been ill, and coordinated
house-sitting and receptions for funerals. The Service team providing meals was led by Julie
Schubert, Flower Delivery by Elizabeth Hasler. We experienced a number of illnesses and
deaths within our church community, and the service team did an outstanding job organizing
and providing support to those families affected.
Vice-Moderator, Tom Spindler, represented the Deacons on the Nominating Team.
Moderator, Karen Emig, assigned representatives to attend Session meetings. Sara Ruffner
was representative to the Planning, Budget, and Stewardship Team for most of 2014.
While we look forward to the year ahead and the addition of newly-elected deacons,
we wish to acknowledge the wonderful contributions of our “retiring” deacons: Ann Furthmiller, Tom Spindler, Denise Swearingen, and Toby Tolson. Bob Brockfield will be taking Sara Ruffner's final year, as she needed to step down from serving.
I am blessed to lead and work with this enthusiastic, caring group of Christians, and I
pray God’s guidance and discernment for our new and returning deacons of 2015.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen Emig
Moderator, Board of Deacons
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DISCIPLESHIP REPORT
In 2014 the Adult Discipleship Committee was melded into the Discipleship Council. Steve Jacobs remained the staff person in this area of adult discipleship but the Council will now
provide the guidance for integrating adult discipleship activities into the bigger picture discipleship for the entire congregation. Therefore, 2014 was a transitional year with some ongoing
discipleship activities which occurred in previous years and some tailored to the larger vision of
the Discipleship Council.
Ongoing groups which continued to meet included the Bible Believers Sunday School
Class, Parents of Teens and Beyond Sunday Morning Group, Friday Morning Men’s Bible Study,
WOW (Women of the Word) Monday Morning Bible Study and Wednesday Morning Bible
Study.
During the winter the Wednesday Night Lenten series took place where Jeff Hosmer led
a series on Romans 12 and Troy Bronsink led a series on worship. The goal was to model a
small group experience with a significant worship and study experience. In addition an Alpha
Marriage Course was led by Sara and Jeff Ruffner. The evening provided couples an opportunity to get great biblical teaching on marriage, and then have the time to talk together one on
one. It was given very high marks by the participants
The Fall ushered in the Beth Moore series which has always been popular and well
attended. In addition four men’s small groups were formed involving about 25 men. The purpose of each group was to deepen relationships between the men while studying what the Bible had to say about specific questions.
Finally the Northminster University had another stimulating offering. Troy Bronsink and
Sibyl Towner led a series based on the book “Sacred Rhythms”. The series focused on the spiritual disciplines of Solitude, Community, and Ministry. This is also the theme in which the Discipleship Council is leading the congregation which will extending into 2015.
FELLOWSHIP TEAM
(see Nancy Ross-Zimmerman’s report on page 7)
50+ PLANNING TEAM
The group meets monthly on the third Thursday of the month for lunch at noon followed
by a program. There are no meetings in January and the summer months of June, July, and August.
50+ provides opportunities for life enrichment, adventures in learning, and interaction
with others in a spiritual atmosphere. This year our programs have included –“Origins of
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Stuff”, “Plants that have shaped History”, “Confessions of a Steelerholic”(football), and several
exciting musical programs. We usually have 50-60 in attendance.
Our 2014 programs were enhanced by our delicious lunches cooked by “Chef Craig Zimmerman. The price of lunch was raised to $6 in September which is a real bargain.
The planning team meets on the first Wednesday of the month to plan the lunch menu,
table decorations, and future programs.
Edie Harper
Bernie Humanson
Al & Margaret Neumann
Team Members
Patty Payne
Rich Reder
Marilyn Schurig
Fran Wooledge
New team members are Suellen Peirano, Joan & Erv Lipps
Carolyn Miller, Chairman
PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN REPORT
Northminster’s PW had two circles meeting in the past year, the Uhlenbrock Circle and
the Cooke Circle.
The Uhlenbrock Circle meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from September through
May at 10:00 am in the Family Life Center. Their attendance ranged from 5 to 10 depending on
the weather. Although there are 15 on our Circle list in the yearbook, several can no longer
attend and will be eliminated on their next list.
The Bible Study started with their continuing study of a book on “Hope”. When that was
competed, they began the study of “John’s Letters”. Various members lead the study. The two
outreach missions are continuing with Bingo at Llanfair and Children’s Hospital. The December
meeting is always a Christmas Communion meeting led by one of ministers followed by a
luncheon.
They pledge their Circle money collections each month to Northminster’s Presbyterian
Women’s Association treasury. The Circle allotment from the budget was sent this year to
Scott Quay and his wife in Los Angeles to help them in their mission work there.
The Cooke Circle meets on the second Tuesday evening in the church lounge with coffee
and dessert. They average attendance of 12 to 14. They begin and end their year with a salad
and dessert picnic at the Grove of Maple Knoll in September and June. In December they meet
in a member’s home and celebrate communion with one of the pastors leading the service.
The Bible study this past year finished in June “An Abiding Hope: The Presence of God in
Exodus and Deuteronomy” provided by Horizons. In September they started “Reconciling Paul:
A Contemporary Study of 2 Corinthians”, another Horizons publication. The circle’s mission
project is the collection of sample sized toiletry items packed in bags for Welcome House in KY
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for their women’s shelter. 100 bags were delivered during the year. If needed, our mission allotment is given to buy needed supplies to fill the personal care bags. Donations of unused
travel samples from all members are welcome for this project. Please leave in the volunteer
office.
Submitted by Judy Laning, Vice-Moderator
STUDENT MINISTRY TEAM
In 2014, Northminster Student Ministry transitioned from one chapter to another. As we celebrated all of the time, dedication, and love Rich Jones poured into the program, we also started
to explore a change in leadership as Janelle Fair stepped into the position of Interim Director of
Student Ministry. We are so grateful for all who have been involved and supportive through
this process of change and continue to see God providing and working in beautiful ways in
NSM; growing students, volunteers, and staff’s faiths along the way. We are excited to explore
this next chapter of student ministry.
Student Leaders
Conner Zimmermann, Amberly Leigh, Luke Kremzar, Savannah Suer
Adult Leaders
Pat Hasler, Jake Towner, Mike Houston, John Suer, Alicia McMichael, Tracy Amann, Karen Kershner, Jeff Holmes, Laura Holmes, Dan Chambers, Kathryn Kraner, Chris Ewald, Andy Auffrey,
Janelle Fair
18/28 Leaders
Janelle Fair
NSM Team Members
Student Leaders, Adult Leaders, Laurie Lanning, Sara Kraner, Barb Smucker, Karen Kremzar, Joy
Dreyer, Julie Schupert, Janelle Fair
Volunteer Student Ministry Coordinator
Karen Kremzar
2014 Summer Intern
Alicia McMichael
Interim Director of Student Ministry (as of Sept, 2014)
Janelle Fair
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Events/Trips
HS Spring Hill Retreat, MS Spring Hill Retreat, Art Fair Snack Stand Participation, CoSi Museum
Trip, Midnight Mania, HayStack Family Event, HS Urban Plunge, MS Urban Plunge, After Prom
Room Sponsorship, NSM End of the Year Picnic, Carwash, Rootbeer Stand Trip, Philadelphia
Mission Trip, Summer Pool Party and Aquatic Day, Summer Service Projects, Red’s Giving Back
Game, Connect Day, Iona Sharing Nights, Journey to Bethlehem, Rich Jones’ Appreciation Dinner, Thanksgiving Box Project, Homecoming Parade Food Sponsorship, Dream Catcher’s Church
Event, Christmas Caroling, Monthly Service Projects (as of Sept 2014)
Ongoing Programs
MS/HS Sunday Morning Programming: 22
NSM Sunday Evening Programming: 26 + adult leaders
MS Confirmation Class: 5
MS Golden Girls Bible Study: 13
High School Bible Study: 4
18/28 (young adult): 6
Continuing College Outreach: 13
TRADITIONAL MUSIC MINISTRY
Sanctuary Choir: The Sanctuary choir has a membership of 55+ members. The choir meets
every Thursday evening for rehearsals (7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.) and fellowship. The choir participated in thirty-five (35) morning worship services plus four (4) additional worship venues: 2
Christmas Eve services, one (1) Good Friday Service (Requiem by Bradley Ellingboe), and one
(1) Christmas Lessons & Carols Service. The Choir also participated in the annual spring Pops
Concert. A wide variety of music is offered by the choir, i.e., contemporary, traditional, classical, Baroque, original works, etc. This group is truly blest to be a blessing.
Outreach Choir: The Women's Outreach Choir rehearsal is on Tuesday mornings from 9:3011:00 AM in the Sanctuary. We sing a wide variety of music from church hymns to Broadway
and some of the golden oldies. We present entertaining programs at various retirement communities, nursing centers, and for church groups. We have between 15-20 ladies and always
welcome new members. We work hard at rehearsals and have great fellowship with one another. Our lives are enriched by the love we share with others when we perform.
Bell Choirs: The Bell choir ministry, under the direction of Lissa Ray, has expanded into a remarkable department:
 Minster Ringers meets Monday evenings from 7:00-8:30. This group of sixteen musicians leads worship once a month at the 10:45 service. In addition to the sixteen
members there are eight capable substitute ringers who fill in when a member needs
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to be away. Each rehearsal includes prayer, fellowship, laughter, concentration, focus,
and chocolate. God is doing good things with this group of volunteers.

Ring of Peace is a new handbell ensemble. Meeting Mondays from 4:00-5:00, this
group encompasses eight ringers of varying experience. Ring of Peace has led worship
at Crosspoint, at the 8:00 traditional service, and during the Journey to Bethlehem,
collaborating with P.Y.R.E. Three of the ringers also ring for Minster Ringers and two
are staff members. The grace and support for one another in this ensemble transcends the music.

Presbyterian Youth Ringing Ensemble (P.Y.R.E.) is in its second year. Using five octaves of bells, this group has eleven ringers from age 10 to adult. The intergenerational aspect of P.Y.R.E. speaks to God’s gift of music reaching everybody. P.Y.R.E.
meets Sunday afternoons from 4:00-5:00. This group reaches into the community
and embraces all who are interested in ringing. P.Y.R.E. worked with Ring of peace for
a double bell choir piece during the Journey to Bethlehem.
Northminster Recorder Consort is a new ensemble. Consisting of eight members, flexible combinations of players lead worship quarterly. Soprano, alto, tenor and bass recorders are
used. The group is made of musicians that are Northminster members and some from the
community. This is another example of including interested people from the surrounding
neighborhood and giving them a chance to experience God’s grace at Northminster.
Children’s Music on Sunday mornings, depending on the schedule, meets once or twice a
month from 9:00-11:45. Children from first to fifth grade come and go depending on their parents’ worship or class attendance. Included in the instruction are music games, singing,
chimes, and Orff instrument accompaniments (xylophones, glockenspiels, percussion). Also
addressed is improvisation and creativity. These children lead worship quarterly.
J.A.M. Club (Jesus And Me) meets for three five-week sessions. Included in the experience is D
-group, music class similar to that of Sunday mornings but with more individual attention and
freedom to explore, and a pizza dinner. This program includes children grades one-five. Mary
Hensey plans the D-Group lessons and the music is coordinated with the theme.
Creative Worship was offered for the first time last spring. Children began each session with
prayer, studied Psalm 8 in a variety of ways, and actually wrote a song based on the text of the
Psalm that they used to lead worship. This endeavor was not only enriching for the participants
but also for the staff members involved.
Club 45 meets on the same nights as J.A.M. Club but after the pizza dinner. Children in grades
four and five have a chance to go deeper into the lessons, both D-Group and music. These ca32
pable children have the opportunity to find their voice through music and discover where their
gifts are strongest
Choir Camp: The 12th Annual Choir Camp, under the direction of Rev. Nancy RossZimmerman, was held during the week of August 4-8, 2014. The Musical, Adam’s Apple, was
presented during the Sunday Morning Worship Services ( 9:00 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.). The campers’ Friday afternoon visit to Brookdale Place to present musical selections from Adam’s Apple
to the residence was cancelled due to heavy rain. More than one hundred (100+) campers,
high school CIT’s, and adult helpers participated in the week’s activities, which included: singing, staging, movement to music, crafts, games, snacks, and good times.
Christmas Concert: Carolyn Miller and Karen Balough presented their annual piano / organ
Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 14, @ 2:30 p.m. Traditional Christmas music and a
Christmas Carol sing-a-long filled the program.
Pops Concert: The Annual Pops Concert was present on Sunday, May 19 @ 7:00 p.m. A variety of musical groups and musical styles were presented to a packed Sanctuary. Each year, this
concert has raised between $1500-2000 in support of a variety of local charities. Last
year, $1500 was raised for LINKS (Provides musical instruments for needy children). Groups
participating Women's Outreach, Sanctuary Choir, Childrens' choir, bells, members from the
Crosspoint service, some of the youth, and various instrumental players and announcers.
Satellite Choir: The Cincinnati Children's Choir is a choir program in residence at the CollegeConservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. In addition to the eight resident choir,
twelve Satellite Choirs are offered in locations throughout Greater Cincinnati. This 8-10 week
program for children in grades 3-6 is meant to provide an introduction to choral music and the
philosophies of the Cincinnati Children's Choir. The Northminster Satellite meets on Tuesdays
from 7:00-8:00. The current director, Jenni Koenemann, teaches general music in Fairfield and
is a member of the Northminster Recorder Consort. Accompanying the Northminster Satellite
choir is Brenda Hartman. The twelve Satellite Choirs combine to sing as one choir of 150 children for the Cincinnati Children's Choir concert, Celebrate Youth, in March. Lissa Ray has been
a staff member and board member of the Cincinnati Children's Choir since its inception 22
years ago. She was instrumental in bringing this service to the community to Northminster,
joining the church's rich history of choral music with the leading children choir program in the
Greater Cincinnati area. Lissa currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the
Cincinnati Children's Choir. The board meetings are also held at Northminster. The Cincinnati
Children's Choir is grateful for this valuable and meaningful partnership.
Keyboard Instruments: The three keyboard instruments that are housed in the Sanctuary
have needed attention throughout the year. The repair is due, in part, to the extremely low
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humidity in the Sanctuary during the cooler times of the year. Currently, the humidity in the
Sanctuary hovers around sixteen percent (16%). This lower humidity creates a situation where
wood shrinks and cracks, and leather (organ) becomes dry and brittle, resulting in leakage from
air chambers, etc. Below, please note the status of each of our keyboard instruments:
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
Piano: The sanctuary piano had all of the hammers replaced. This solved the problem
with recurring sound adjustments, i.e., bright and brassy sounds requiring additional
tuning & work, etc. The touch was effected by this change. We are currently working
with the piano technician to ‘relax’ the action.

Organ: The organ requires tuning at least twice a year. Recently, it has developed leaks
in the reserve chamber. The solution is to re-leather the box. Cost of this project is
about two thousand five hundred dollars ($2500). A similar repair was provided this instrument a few years ago (5 years?). The leathers had dried out and all leathers needed
to be replaced. Low humidity is harmful to acoustic instruments.

Harpsichord: The harpsichord has been placed in the sanctuary. While not ideal conditions, it does make the instrument available for use. Maintenance is currently donated;
however, there are numerous cracks in the sound board (due to low humidity). The largest of these has ‘grown’ over the past year. These cracks do not hinder the sound of the
instrument yet. Once the soundboard slips against the jacks (plucking mechanisms), the
instrument will need to have major repair. It is currently working well.
MISSIONS DIRECTOR & MISSIONAL COUNCIL MINISTRIES
2014 was my 7th year as Missions Director. What a joy it is! Northminster continues to grow
and learn how to be a missional church where we balance our efforts to be both internally
strong and externally focused.
One of my responsibilities is to chair the Missional Council. This council consists of our externally focused ministries. Below is a 2014 summary of some of these major outreach ministries:
1. Angel Tree – For well over 15 years, NMPC has participated each Christmas in the Prison Fellowship program known as Angel Tree. Each year close to 100 children, whose
mom or dad are in prison, have presents purchased, wrapped and delivered by Northminster members in the name of the child’s mom or dad. A food basket for the families
is also provided. Wayne and Kathy Anderson stepped in to coordinate the program for
Christmas 2014.
2. Art Fair – Northminster hosted it's 9th annual art fair on February 1st 2014. The fair
attracts many visitors to our church every year and we hear back often about the welcoming atmosphere our volunteers create. We also enjoy a good reputation among
artists and fair trade vendors for how special we treat them while they are with us. The
2014 fair was our best ever in terms of artist and vendor sales. As in past years, we donated profits to City Gospel Mission with a designation for Whiz Kids. Our donations
from the past 5 years have totaled $4,400. Our tenth fair will be held on February 7,
2015.
3. CONNECT - On August 9, 2014 Northminster held our 7th annual CONNECT work day.
The objective of CONNECT is to have a large number (approximately 200) of Northminster members experience a one-day hands-on service work day where we share the
love of Christ by working in our community. We met that goal in 2014. This year we did
projects with ReThreads ministry in Fairfield, North Presbyterian Church in Northside,
the Reading Lockland Presbyterian Church, and our anchor organization – Finneytown
schools.
4. Global Missions - Northminster is building a powerful set of relationships with the Presbyterian church in Guatemala and specifically in the northern city of Coban. Coban is
the regional capital for the Q’eqchi people group. The objective of our partnership is to
help establish the first Presbyterian church in Coban. In July 2014 a small group of 5
Northminster members traveled to Coban on our second annual missions trip there.
The NMPC team met with Guatemala national Presbyterian leaders and signed a Covenant between Northminster and the Guatemala Presbyterian organization. The team
also assisted in the construction of a storage building on the complex site and began
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construction on the manse for the pastor for the Coban church. The third trip to Coban
is scheduled for July 2015.
5. Jail Ministry- Northminster has two teams of adults that hold worship services eachmonth on the 4th Sunday and one additional Sunday each quarter at the River City Correctional facility here in Cincinnati. We meet and pray and sing with both men and
women inmates. It is a humbling experience every time! In 2014 we held 17 worship
services for 151 inmates.
6. Scouts- Northminster continues a long tradition of sponsoring both Cub and Boy
scouting programs. Our boy scout troop is healthy with over 30 boys active in the
troop. Equally encouraging is the large number of cub scouts active.
7. VITA Tax Assistance- From late January to April 15th each year, Northminster trained
volunteers provide free assistance in filling out income taxes for anyone who asks. It is
a tremendous outreach into the community and helped nearly 500 people in 2014!
FAMILY LIFE CENTER REPORT
The Family Life Center Team met two times per month, except during the summer, to continue the work of the ministry while also planning for a new organizational structure. The leadership team consisted of: Ted Barrett, Lee Ann Hamilton (Recording Secretary), Charlene Mecklenburg, Cliff Mecklenburg (Vice-Chair), Lynn Saul, Ed Sawyer, Nancy Shahan, Mary Specht,
Denise Swearingen, Julie Winters, and Dan Winters (Chair).
FLC Transition Work:
2014 has been a transitional year for the FLC. The FLC team was pushed on a path that was
foreign to where we’ve been or ever thought we’d go. Through Diane’s stellar leadership and
guidance, combined with the core strength of the FLC team, and invaluable input from church
members and friends of the FLC, in 2014, a distant idea became closer to fruition. As a team
we rallied with Diane and held many extra meetings to tease out the essence of who we were
and what we wanted to become. Coming into 2015, we are blessed with Diane’s leadership
and our incredibly strong and committed FLC team. As a team, we are ready to commit our
time, energy and resources to open new doors and meet the many new and unexpected challenges that lay before us. Submitted by: Ted Barrett
All of the aforementioned work has led to the development of Guiding Principles.
Guiding Principles for Our Future
 The FLC will remain a Christ-centered mission, not a secular counseling entity.
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



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The FLC will be a main mission of Northminster, in such a way that the strong relationship does not create barriers to exploring new opportunities for funding.
The FLC will be a sustainable ministry, based on written principles and practices that will
outlast any personal relationships or bond that are currently in place.
The FLC Director will be a member of the Northminster staff to ensure the healthiest
possible synergy.
To the extent that it makes sense, services (including administrative and technical, for
example) would be shared.
The FLC and Northminster will establish a Covenant Agreement to reflect the guiding
principles and operational model details to ensure that the intents and practices will
outlast any personal relationships or bonds that are currently in place.
Special Events in 2014:
 Stewards of Children, an educational program on child sexual abuse prevention was
scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd. We had no registrations and we cancelled the
program. According to the presenters, this is not extraordinarily uncommon. It’s an uncomfortable subject people do not typically want to talk about.
 Community Seminar: End of Life Issues was a three week program presented by Kay
Walters, a Family Service Advisor for Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, and Connie Springer, a portrait/editorial photographer and feature writer who loves to explore
human interest themes.
 Coping with Grief through the Holidays was again offered as a stand-alone event on
Tuesday, November 5th.
Participation information:
 Overall, non-member participation rate in groups was 89.6%
 Non-member participation rate in seminars was 90%
 There were a total of 1097 “touch points” with 344 individuals through our groups and
seminars.
 Our Preparing for Marriage mentors worked with 13 couples married by Northminster
pastors.
 The VITA tax program touched another 497 individuals.
FLC Group Reports:
A significant shift in some of the work of the FLC has been re-formatting some of our groups
as coaching groups as opposed to support groups. This shift has been extremely well received
in the groups where we have made the change. It’s an attempt to remain more relevant and
approachable for a changing culture at large and the effort is certainly paying off.
Blessings of Aging was a four week group inspired by the work of Sister Joan Chittister, who
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describes aging as a great adventure and an opportunity to deepen and enrich our spirituality.
After a short teaching video segment from Sister Joan, the group discussed and reflected on
her unique and encouraging approach to aging in her own life.
Branding & Marketing YOU in your Job Search continued in its second year as a wellreceived, three week group offered in the summer offered. Participants left with concrete
tools ready to employ in their job search.
Caregivers’ Support Group continued to meet on the first Sunday of every month from 3:30 –
5 PM, except for July. Our facilitators attended four CAN Facilitator Meetings at the Hyde Park
Community Methodist Church for training and collecting educational materials for distribution
to members. The biggest change for the year was the addition of a speaker to each month’s
program. The speakers addressed topics important for caregivers and presented a short talk
from 3:30 – 3:45. After a brief question and answer session the speakers left and the group
shifted into a time of mutual support. This was a significant and very well-received change!
Attendance varied from four to eleven members monthly. Facilitators: Mary Specht and Jan
Weber
Coping with Depression saw a new professional facilitator this year in David Perlaki, when
Brenda Sing-Ota could not lead the group due to her seminary work load. David exudes
warmth, calm, and a deep faith in his interactions with the group. He also leads some groups
at the Vineyard Tri-County. Unfortunately we did not have enough people to make a group in
the fall. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
Couple Check-Up did not have enough participants to become an active group this fall. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
Crohn’s Colitis Support Group:
The Crohn's-Colitis Support Group completed its 7th year with the meeting in October. Unfortunately the meeting scheduled for November 17, 2014 was cancelled due to snow.
This year the group only scheduled eight rather than the accustomed nine meetings. Those
meetings met as usual on the third Monday of the month at 7:00 p.m. As customary,
meetings were not scheduled for January, July, and December. Due to a significant drop in
attendance the leadership cancelled the planned August meeting to “regroup” and brainstorm about causes for the drop in membership and devise ways to improve our meetings to
bring members back.
In 2014 we had two speakers. We had a gastroenterologist and a nutritionist speak. A colorectal surgeon was scheduled to appear at the November meeting that was snowed out. In
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2013 we had 68 individuals attend meetings during the year. This year marked our first drop
in attendance with only 35 persons coming to our group. We continue to draw from a wide
geographical area. The 35 participants came from the following zip codes: Dearborn County,
Indiana - 47025, Boone County, KY – 41017, Miami County, Ohio – 45373, Butler County –
45011, and Hamilton County - 45215, 45247, 45211, 45230, 45231, 45233, 45229, 45239,
45244, 45248 and 45140. This year we did draw from a more wide-spread area, attracting
participants from Indiana, Kentucky, and Troy, OH, as well as new parts of Hamilton County.
We are entering 2015 in a period of transition. My longtime partner in facilitation, Bob Mayer
has chosen to resign. Bob was a tremendous asset to the group and will be greatly missed. I
will be welcoming a new co-facilitator in 2015. Joni Preston, who has attended many
meetings with her husband over the last couple of years, has agreed to co-facilitate the group.
She will be providing the same perspective as Bob provided, that of family member. Facilitators: Charlene Mecklenburg and Bob Mayer.
The Daniel Plan was a NEW group in 2014! This is an holistic, healthy lifestyle program from
Saddleback Church. We had a full group of eight women who loved the program and were sad
to see it end. We will definitely offer this again in 2015. Facilitator: Julie Winters.
Diabetic Support Group had five dynamic speakers, most of whom were dietitians who presented interesting aspects of nutritional therapy for patients with diabetes. Our small but loyal group of followers continues to help one another with the most challenging aspects of caring for their diabetes. Facilitator: Caroline Pritchard.
Divorce Support Group had a false start in the spring with an unhealthy make-up of group
participants. The group was cancelled after the first session. We offered another five week
group in October but did not have enough participants to make it a group. We plan on offering a Divorce Coaching Group in 2015. Facilitators: Dale Elliott and Lynn Saul.
Everyday Spirituality had a delightful dozen members who explored ways to be reminded of
God and our spirituality throughout the course of our normal days. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
Financial Peace University: This fall we offered another FPU with one new facilitator. Though
a smaller group, the members retired debt and left with new tools, resources, and techniques
for their financial life. Facilitators: Ted Barrett and Dan Winters.
Grief, as a general category, had a number of transitions itself this year. We offered one Grief
101:New to Loss session in April and determined that the needs of the community had
changed because of the continually declining participation. In the winter and spring we
offered two sessions of Finding Your Way through Loss, a five-week group utilizing Dan Moseley’s book Lose, Love, Live. After Diane attended the International Coaching Federation Mid39
west Conference in June, she came back with resources for a totally new concept – a Grief
Coaching Group. We developed our own curriculum and workbook, which was extremely well
received by a full group of participants. We will continue this next year. Facilitators: Carol
Moore, Jamie Palmer and Nancy Shahan.
Guided Meditations on Forgiveness did not have enough participants this year for the group
to form in July, which is unusual for this group. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
Holistic Health and Wellness drew a delightful group of ten participants. Jackie Eyre again
came to share some Guided Prayer Imagery. Each person who participated experienced something new to use in their self-care. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
How to Change Yourself (in ways you want) and How to Change Others (in relationship with
you) was not scheduled in 2014 due to the other work that Diane had to complete. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella.
Job Search Group: This group was offered twice, in the winter/spring and then in the fall, as an
eleven week series of speakers. The size of the groups was about the same size as last year,
which meant that we were able to hold the groups at the Family Life Center. Attendance
ranged from six to twenty-three throughout all groups. We were again blessed with a number
of outstanding speakers: Dr. Ted Barrett, Karen Friedhoff, Dana Glasgo, Ned Heeger-Brehm
from the Cincinnati Library, Denny Krause, Steve Long, Valerie Plis, Dan Winters, and Diane Kinsella. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella and Mary Ann Meale.
Made to Crave was scheduled for March and did not have enough participants registered. Because participation rates were dwindling we went back to the drawing board and found a new,
healthy living program to offer instead: The Daniel Plan, which we offered in the fall. Facilitator: Julie Winters.
Motherless Daughters Ministry was a new partnership for the FLC. This ministry serves women who have either lost their mother or never knew the nurturing love of their mother. It is a
twelve week, life-altering program of liberation. Facilitator: Mary Ellen Collins.
Now What was a new group offered in the fall. It holds the record for being the group with the
most sessions we have ever offered. It is a thirteen week coaching group for finding a new direction in life that is limited to ten participants with a book, a workbook, and a high degree of
accountability within the group. Each person had an accountability partner with whom they
spoke at least once during the course of the week. Deep relationships were formed! Though
scheduled for thirteen weeks, the group found at two points during the program that they
needed an extra week with the material. It actually met for fifteen weeks and has the best
attendance record of any group we have ever offered. The group has chosen to meet monthly
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in 2015 to encourage one another on their paths. Coach: Diane Kinsella.
Preparing for Marriage continued to use the Prepare-Enrich assessment and mentor couples
as a way to support couples going into their marriage. There were thirteen couples who went
through the program this year. Mentor couples were: Sue Ahlrichs & Jim Dingle, Ted & Laurie
Barrett, John & Diane Kinsella and Dan & Julie Winters.
Strengths-Based Career Management was offered times three this year, once in the evening
and twice as an adjunct group to the Job Search group during the day. The May group, scheduled in the evening, was so large that we split the group into two sections. We added an afternoon option, which Participants gained a greater understanding of how they were uniquely
created and how that impacts what makes a job a uniquely good fit for them. The first three
groups had 13-14 participants and the final session had nineteen. Facilitator: Diane Kinsella
Success Team was our first experiment with a coaching group in late May, followed by a second
group in late July. We met for six weeks of job search coaching and accountability. The group
was limited to ten participants, each of whom was assigned an accountability partner. Participants made significant progress in their searches. Coach: Diane Kinsella.
Surviving Pain with Grace & Hope was a new group led by Donna Stothfang, a community
member and life coach who has experience chronic pain for seventeen years. As part of her
journey she has sought out many different healing modalities, which she also shared with the
group. We first offered it in the spring and did not have enough for a group, but offered it again
in the fall and had a small but mighty group. Facilitator: Donna Stothfang.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA): The Northminster team of tax return preparers is an
incredibly efficient and dedicated group that makes an enormous impact on our community.
They began filing returns at the end of January and worked all the way through April 15th. This
year they completed a total of 465 returns! The Deacons funded lunch for volunteers which
was prepared weekly by volunteers from the Wednesday Morning Bible Study. Susan Smith did
all the grocery shopping and set up coffee and cookies for clients & preparers weekly. The tax
return preparers included: Jim Albert, Jim Golan, Tom Gougeon, Janet Heiden, Bill Kramer, Jim
McGrath, Lewe Mizelle, Rick Prairie, Like Telljohnn, Bob Webbink, Mary Jane Willke and John
Zimmermann. Joan Fulton continued to serve as the hostess, registering people as they arrived.
Dan Winters, FLC Team Chair
Diane Kinsella, Director
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TROOP SUPPORT TEAM
In 2014 we changed the focus of the Troop Support ministry from working with Operation Thank You to working with the Veterans’ Administration (VA) to support our troops returning home from deployment.
The three goals of the Troop Support Team are to reach out to Veterans and their families in the community, to support veterans through the VA and the Red Cross, and to honor our
NmPC Veterans
Reaching out to veterans their families in the community (outwardly focused)
In 2014 we created a new seminar series with the Family Life Center for supporting
troops returning from war and their families. We have invited speakers from the VA to lead
seminars on VA Benefits in a series of quarterly meetings. FLC will publicize these seminars in
our local community.
The following nine VA Benefits will be presented by VA representatives in 2015: (1) Disability Compensation, (2) Education and Training, (3) Employment Services, (4) Health Care, (5)
Home Loans and Housing-Related Assistance, (6) Life Insurance, (7) Memorial Benefits, (8) Pension, and (9) Spouses, Dependents, and Survivors.
We also participated in “Operation Stand Down” for the second year. This is an annual
event sponsored by the DAV, Goodwill Industries and the VA to assist homeless veterans in the
Greater Cincinnati area. Members of the Troop Support Team from NmPC worked at a table
handing out personal care items, candy and Bibles. It gave us a venue for meeting homeless
veterans, listening to them and understanding their needs. We were blessed.
Transition from working with OTC to the VA and Red Cross
Howard Kruger organized the effort to write over 600 greeting cards this year to troops
deployed overseas and in VA hospitals. He was responsible for (1) getting the cards printed, (2)
reaching out to the NmPC community to write notes on those cards and then (3) sending the
cards to our troops through the Red Cross. The Troop Support team would like to thank the
congregation for this outpouring of love.
Carol Alexander, manager of Operations for OTY, has asked me to share this note with
you. “I want to personally thank the membership of Northminster for the years of love and
support that has been given to Operation Thank You. It would not be possible for us to serve
our troops the way we do, if it were not for support such as you’re over the years. OTY closed
their operations in June, because the troops are returning home from Afghanistan and Iraq.
Honoring on NmPC Veterans (inwardly strong)
Our annual Veterans’ Day luncheon has been very popular in the last few years. About
45 veterans and their spouses attend the luncheon. Our speakers again this year were Col. Da42
vid Leist, who is an Air Force Chaplain at the VA. and Colonel Dean Smittle, who is a popular
speaker on WLW about military affairs.. These luncheons provide an opportunity for us to recognize their service to our country. Dana Glasgo and her team of volunteers have provided the
leadership for this event for the last several years.
We made financial donations to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), USO, and Wounded
Warriors again this year to honor our veterans.
We Remember
In December 2013 we lost Phil Glasgo to an accident on his farm. Throughout 2014 he
was sorely missed by his family, his friends and his fellow veterans on this team. His contributions to the Troop Support Team were invaluable and we consider them to be his legacy to us.
Troop Support Team members were: Bob and Kathryne Brockfield, Bob Earley, Dale Elliott, Dana Glasgo, Bill Hull, and Howard Krueger. We meet on the second Sunday of each
month at 12:00 in the Lounge. Guests and new members are always welcome.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Brockfield, Chairman
Troop Support Team
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NORTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING in the sanctuary
January 26, 2014
MODERATOR: Rev. Jeffrey A. Hosmer
CLERK: Thomas W. Gougeon
Moderator Hosmer called the meeting to order at 11:37 AM.
A quorum was present.
Associate Pastor Nancy Ross-Zimmerman offered an opening prayer.
Note: copies of Northminster’s 2013 Summary Annual Report were made available to all meeting attendees.
Note on action items: MSC = Moved Seconded and Carried.
MSC to approve the minutes of the annual congregational meeting of January 27, 2013, and the congregational meetings of May 19, 2013, and September 15, 2013.
MSC to approve the 2013 statistical report as presented on Page 7 of the 2013 Summary Annual Report.
Moderator Hosmer called on Ron Stoerker and Greg Gibson, Co-Chairs of session’s Planning Budget & Stewardship
Team, who presented the 2013 financial report. Ron reported that the state of Northminster’s financial condition is good,
but that warning signs exist which point to the need for reduced budget costs in order to continue on a solid financial
foundation.
Financial results for 2013 showed income of $1,300,000 and expenses of $1,178,000, leaving a surplus of $122,000.
While this was a good result, Ron pointed out that budgeted expenses have been growing faster than the Consumer
Price Index (3.0% per year versus 2.4% per year) so that we cannot plan on ongoing surpluses like the one in 2013.
Other factors putting pressure on our finances are that we are staffed for growth but are not growing; the number of
pledges received each year is declining even though the average dollars per pledge is growing; the cost of staff benefits
continues to grow even though we have held staff salaries level; costs to provide and maintain technology to enhance
worship experiences, and operate our office efficiently will be $30,000 in 2014.
Ron summarized the 2014 budget that session has adopted. It projects pledge income of $1,038,746 (245 pledges), and
other income of $161,000, or total income of $1,199,746. The budget estimates expenses of $1,250,734. Thus we need
an additional $50,988 to balance the budget. The PB&S Team believes that we can work with this financial picture,
based on experience from recent past years showing giving in excess of pledges and expenses less than budgeted.
Looking beyond 2014, the downward trends in worship attendance and number of annual pledges means session must
identify additional ways to increase income and/or reduce expenses. Session is looking at various ways to reduce costs
related to: the Family Life Center; Student Ministries staffing; Crosspoint; and Children’s Ministries.
Ron reported that $395,000 has been pledged toward the $555,000 goal of the Capital Fund Campaign. Along with a
$22,000 commitment from the Endowment Fund, this will put us in a position to handle major repairs and/or equipment
replacements.
Ron, Staff Development Team Co-Chair Rich Schafermeyer, and Jeff Hosmer answered several questions from the congregation. Responding to a question, Rich said that over $11,000/year is being saved by eliminating the part-time secretary’s position. Answering a question about declines in worship attendance, Jeff said that total worship attendance is
down; that attendance is not shifting from one service to another. Jeff said that growth has to come from God; that we all
have responsibilities for growth; we do benchmark with other congregations looking for ideas for growth. Jeff concluded
saying that many congregations in the Presbytery would “love to exchange problems with us.”
Note: Pastors Hosmer and Ross-Zimmerman and their spouses left the room during discussion of pastoral terms of call.
Pastor Jones was away on a middle school trip to Spring Hill Michigan but followed the meeting via FaceTime on his
wife, Debbie’s phone. Tom Gougeon moderated during this period.
Using Power Point slides, SDT Co-Chair Rich Schafermeyer showed that all three pastors had received no raises during
2012 and 2013. Rich also discussed pastors Hosmer and Ross-Zimmerman’s salary ranking among Presbytery churches; both ranked third among their peer pastors. Associate Pastor Rich Jones ranked eighth among the eight full-time
associate pastors in the Presbytery. Northminster’s is the fourth largest congregation in the Presbytery.
Staff Development Team Co-Chair John Zimmermann presented the attached 2014 terms of call for Senior Pastor and
Head of Staff Jeffrey A. Hosmer with the aid of Power Point slides.
MSC (unanimously) to approve the attached 2014 terms of call for Rev. Jeffrey A. Hosmer.
45
Again using Power Point slides, John Zimmermann presented the attached 2014 terms of call for Associate Pastor Nancy Ross-Zimmerman.
MSC (unanimously) to approve the attached 2014 terms of call for Rev. Nancy Ross-Zimmerman.
Again using Power Point slides, John Zimmermann presented the attached 2014 terms of call for Associate Pastor Richard L. Jones.
MS to approve the attached 2014 terms of call for Rev. Richard L. Jones.
Discussion of this motion covered the fact that Rev. Jones came to Northminster as a non-ordained Director of Student
Ministries. Later, with Northminster’s financial support and time off to pursue seminary studies, Rev. Jones completed
preparation for the ministry and was ordained and, with Presbytery agreement, installed as a called pastor at Northminster. This history forms the basis for Rev. Jones’s salary being lower than Rev. Ross-Zimmerman’s. Rich Schafermeyer
said that to assess Rev. Jones’s salary ranking in the Presbytery, one would have to compare with other full-time Directors of Student Ministries. However, Presbytery does not keep statistics for Student Ministries Directors.
MSC to call the question.
Main motion carried unanimously.
At this point, pastors Hosmer and Ross-Zimmerman returned to the meeting room to a round of applause.
Ron Stoerker presented a slide showing possible cost reducing strategies for 2015 and beyond. One suggestion was to
change the status of the Family Life Center to a 503 (c) entity. This provoked a lively discussion that Moderator Hosmer
closed noting that “we are trying to discuss this before we have complete information or a plan.” He anticipated that
there would be an upcoming opportunity for the congregation to discuss the Family Life Center options in much greater
depth.
Jeff Hosmer introduced Elder Carolyn Geglein, Co-Chair of the Nominating Committee who nominated three individuals
as follows: Sue Ahlrichs to fill an unexpired term in session’s class of 2014; Diane Milazzo for an unexpired term on the
Board of Deacons’ class of 2014; and David Addison for a two-year term on the Endowment Fund Committee. Jeff then
called for nominations from the floor. There were none.
MSC (unanimously) to elect the three individuals named above.
Carolyn Geglein thanked outgoing members of the Nominating Committee. She also recognized the service of outgoing
elders, deacons and trustees with small gifts.
All sung Hymn 417 Christ is Made the Firm Foundation.
Motion carried to adjourn at 12:50 PM.
Elder Scott Steel offered a closing prayer.
46
______________________________
_________________________________
Jeffrey A. Hosmer, Moderator
Thomas W. Gougeon, Clerk of Session
Terms of Call for Northminster’s Pastors as Approved at the
Annual Congregational Meeting on January 26, 2014
Rev. Jeffrey A. Hosmer
2013
2014
Notes
Salary & Housing Total
$97,397
$97,397
No change
Salary = $39,929;
Housing = $57,468
Benefits:
Medical Reimbursement *
$1,948
$1,948
Pension; Death and Disability Ins. *
11,921
11,921
Medical Insurance *
20,862
22,849
802
854
$35,534
$37,573
$2,000
$2,000
300
300
1,500
1,500
$3,800
$3,800
$136,731
$138,770
Dental Insurance
Total Benefits
Allowances:
Continuing Education
Books
Professional Expenses
Total Allowances
Total Terms of Call
* % of salary and housing, as set by
the Board of Pensions
5.7% increase
Other Benefits:
Vacation:
6 weeks (30 days)
Study Leave:
2 weeks (10 work days)
Mileage reimbursement
1.5% increase
Rev. Nancy Ross-Zimmerman
2013
2014
Notes
Salary & Housing Total
$61,594
$61,594
No change
Salary = $20,128
Housing = $41,466
Benefits:
Medical Reimbursement *
$1,232
$1,232
7,539
7,539
13,193
14,450
802
854
$22,766
$24,075
$2,000
$2,000
Books
300
300
Professional Expenses
500
500
$2,800
$2,800
$87,160
$88,469
Pension; Death and Disability Ins. *
Medical Insurance *
Dental Insurance
Total Benefits
Allowances:
Continuing Education
Total Allowances
Total Terms of Call
* % of salary and housing, as set by
the Board of Pensions
5.7% increase
Other Benefits:
Vacation:
1 month (22 days)
Study Leave:
2 weeks (10 work days)
Mileage reimbursement
1.5% increase
47
2013
2014
$46,976
$46,976
Medical Reimbursement *
$940
$940
Pension; Death and Disability Ins. *
5,750
5,750
Medical Insurance *
10,062
11,020
Dental Insurance
1,446
1,540
$18,198
$19,250
$2,000
$2,000
300
300
500
500
Total Allowances
$2,800
$2,800
Total Terms of Call
$67,973
$69,025
Notes
Rev. Richard L. Jones
Salary & Housing Total
No change
Salary = $20,930
Housing = $26,046
Benefits:
Total Benefits
Allowances:
Continuing Education
Books
Professional Expenses
48
* % of salary and housing, as set by
the Board of Pensions
5.8% increase
Other Benefits:
Vacation:
1 month (22 days)
Study Leave:
2 weeks (10 work days)
Mileage reimbursement
1.5% increase
NORTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING in the Sanctuary and in Founders’ Hall
May 4, 2014
MODERATOR: Rev. Jeffrey A. Hosmer
CLERK: Thomas W. Gougeon
Session called this meeting for the purpose of electing persons to fill one vacancy on Session and two on the Nominating Committee.
This meeting was called to order during the 8:00 AM sanctuary service, continued through the 9:00 AM Crosspoint service and the 10:15 AM sanctuary service, and concluded following the 11:30 AM Crosspoint service.
A quorum was present.
Moderator Hosmer called the meeting to order with prayer at the 8:00 AM service. At each of the four services, either
Moderator Hosmer or Associate Pastor Nancy Ross-Zimmerman explained that the Nominating Committee had nominated Elder Jan Rue to fill an opening in Session’s class of 2015, and Mark Kremzar and Jan Golan to fill two openings
on the Nominating Committee. They then explained that the sole action of the meeting would be for members to vote
paper ballots on which the names of each of these candidates had been printed along with lines for write-in candidates.
Finally, they explained that each ballot should be signed by the member voting it. Signing assures that each voting
member completes only one ballot and that only members’ votes are counted. After voting, members deposited their
completed ballots in a ballot box. The box was made available in Fellowship Commons so that the same ballot box was
used by members attending all four services.
The signed ballots were tallied by Elder Carolyn Geglein and Clerk of Session Tom Gougeon following the 11:30 AM
service on Sunday, May 4, 2014. The voting produced one hundred six (106) ballots duly signed by a member. The
tally of votes was as follows:
Candidate
Votes Tallied
Jan Rue (for Elder)
106
Mark Kremzar (for Nominating Committee)
105
Jan Golan (for Nominating Committee)
103
Accordingly, all candidates were duly elected.
Moderator Hosmer closed the meeting with prayer at the conclusion of the 11:30 AM service.
______________________________
_________________________________
Jeffrey A. Hosmer, Moderator
Thomas W. Gougeon, Clerk of Session
49
NORTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING – held at church for the following purposes:
Electing church officers
Closing the Associate Pastor position previously held by The Rev. Richard L. Jones
September 28, 2014
MODERATOR: Rev. Jeffrey A. Hosmer
CLERK: Tom Gougeon
Moderator Hosmer called the meeting to order at 7:07 PM in Founders’ Hall and offered an opening prayer.
A quorum was present.
Moderator Hosmer introduced Nominating Committee Co-Chairs Carolyn Geglein and Laura Horn who presented the
following slate of nominees for office.
Trustees Class of 2017
Elder Class of 2015
Deacon Class of 2015
Endowment Class of
2017
Al Neumann
Jim McGrath
Bob Brockfield*
David Addison*
Marilyn Schwarz
Karen Albrecht*
Ervena Weingartner
Nominating Class of 2015
Elders Class of 2017
Deacons Class of 2017
Jan Golan
Don Bahr
Kathryne Brockfield*
Sharon Bauman
Dick Haberstroh
Kim Besserman
Bob Friedhoff*
Claire Dingle
Bobbi Hosmer
Dave Decker
Joyce Merritt*
Bernie Humason
Mark Kremzar
Karen Friedhoff
Rich Reder*
Marcia Jones
Jim Long
Rick Merritt
Shirley Reder*
Alice Lee
Denise Swearingen
Noele Williams
*These persons were nominated for a second consecutive term
Moderator Hosmer called for nominations from the floor. There were none. Moderator Hosmer then called for a motion
to elect the entire slate by voice vote.
Moved, seconded and carried (unanimously) to elect the slated listed above.
Carolyn Geglein thanked the members of the 2014 Nominating Committee for their work: Laura Horn, Nancy Brown, Kay
Connell, Jan Golan, Dick Haberstroh, Mark Kremzar, Jim Long, and Tom Spindler.
Moderator Hosmer called for a motion to close the Associate Pastor position previously held by Rev. Richard L. Jones.
Moved, seconded and carried (by voice vote) to close the Associate Pastor position previously held by Rev. Richard L.
Jones.
Motion carried to adjourn at 7:40 PM
Moderator Hosmer offered a closing prayer.
50
______________________________
_________________________________
Jeffrey A. Hosmer, Moderator
Thomas W. Gougeon, Clerk of Session
2014 Financial Report
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION - MODIFIED CASH BASIS
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Northside Checking
Note receivable
Northside Checking-Capital Campaign
Total current assets
ENDOWMENT FUND
NORTHMINSTER SEMESTER FUND
JANZEN MISSION FUND
PROPERTY & EQUIPMENT
Land and Buildings
Woodview Property
Equipment, including Sanctuary
Organ (Note D & E)
Organ
Total property & equipment
TOTAL ASSETS
31-Dec-12 31-Dec-13 31-Dec-14
610,141
664,627
708,424
29,128
26,464
23,800
0
96,635
215,337
639,269
787,726
947,561
580,974
48,287
0
650,767
51,025
24,214
683,082
53,380
24,996
2,508,300 2,508,300
133,200
133,200
2,508,300
133,200
395,772
395,772
395,772
3,037,272 3,037,272
3,037,272
4,305,802 4,551,004
4,746,291
LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS
CURRENT LIABILITIES
State & Local Taxes Payable
Vendors Payable
716
9,784
-38
19,829
13
6,927
10500
19791
6940
3,505,898 3,599,064
789,404
932,149
3,536,875
1,202,476
Total net assets
4,295,302 4,531,213
4,739,351
TOTAL LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS
4,305,802 4,551,004
4,746,291
Total current liabilities
NET ASSETS
Unrestricted
Temporarily Restricted
51
SUMMARY OF GENERAL RECEIPTS
AND DISBURSEMENTS
2013
2014
2014
ACTUAL BUDGET ACTUAL
2015
BUDGET
Pledges and other contributions
Loose Offerings
Interest
Other Income
1,223,054* 1,230,734 1,197,872
9,924
10,000
11,835
1,271
5,000
1,152
6,038
5,000
4,579
1,202,173
10,000
2,000
5,000
TOTAL GENERAL RECEIPTS
1,240,287*
1,219,173
GENERAL RECEIPTS
1,250,734 1,215,438
GENERAL EXPENSES
MINISTRY SUPPORT
Leadership Development
Planning, Budget & Stewardship
Communications
Staff Development
Trustees Operations
Technology
Total Ministry Support
CONGREGATIONAL MINISTRIES
Children Ministry
Adult Discipleship
Youth Ministry
Congregational Care
Fellowship
Senior Ministry
Sanctuary Worship & Music
Crosspoint Worship & Music
Marriage & Family
Total Congregational Ministries
1,028
1,000
2,038
3,400
777
2,000
792,577
796,064
168,267
184,100
23,243
30,000
987,930 1,016,564
1,088
3,017
1,803
783,634
180,159
21,539
991,240
1,000
2,400
3,200
794,600
178,000
25,000
1,004,200
12,129
3,497
27,735
4,864
3,521
241
11,300
7,802
62
71,151
14,150
4,200
21,750
5,100
3,920
500
11,600
9,800
0
71,020
12,622
2,941
14,120
4,842
3,920
0
11,483
9,778
0
59,706
15,150
4,200
15,750
5,100
4,000
500
12,000
8,600
0
65,300
1,646
90,806
4,142
22,806
119,400
2,000
105,000
8,350
22,800
138,150
0
95,499
4,923
24,573
124995
2,000
89,750
8,350
24,573
124,673
0
25,000
25,000
25,000
1,178,481 1,250,734 1,200,941
1,219,173
MISSION
Evangelism
Mission Relations
Family Life Center
Presbyterian Gov't & Issues
Total Mission
CAPITAL RESERVE FUND
TOTAL GENERAL EXPENSES
RECEIPTS less EXPENSES
61,806*
14,497
* These figures were corrected to remove $60K in 2015-16 prepaid giving that was mistakenly put in 2013
52
DETAILS OF THE MISSIONS DISBURSEMENTS
2014
Missions Expenditures from Budget
Global Missions
USA Missions
Local Missions
Family Life Center
Total Missions Budget Areas
43,267
14,388
21,660
4,923
$84,238
Zilpha Curtin Fund (disbursements for short term missionaries)
Thanksgiving baskets
Special Giving for Missions (Second Mile)
Guatemala mission trip
One Great Hour of Sharing
Crossroads Health Ctr
Whiz Kids
(also in mission budgHunger Fund/Valley Interfaith
et)
Christmas Offering for Missionaries
Angel Tree
Back to School
Total Special Giving for Missions
$15,000
$2,970
839
5,789
745
401
915
3,805
363
661
$13,518
Grand Total Mission Spending
$115,726
SUMMARY OF BALANCES IN FUNDS AND RESERVES
Year End 13 Year End 14
Held at Northside Bank
General Fund (Working Capital)
Trustee Operations Reserve
Technology Fund
Zilpha Curtin Fund
Endowment cash on hand
Memorial Fund
Mission reserve
Miscl giving funds
Deacons Fund
Family Life Ctr
Youth Scholarship/Project fund
Pastors/staff study carryovers (not used in prior yrs)
Cookbook (transferred to General Fund in 2014)
Visitation Pastor Fund balance
Worship & Music Fund
Art fair balance
Troop Support Fund
Miscl Other funds
Capital Campaign Fund (2014-18)
Capital Reserve (2019 & Beyond)
Commons Acoustics project (Endow grant and donations)
Prepaid Giving Holding Fund ( 2016 & beyond)
TOTAL
New Covenant Mutual Funds
Endowment Fund
Northminster Semester Fund
Janzen Mission Fund
TOTAL
GRAND TOTAL
532,150
23,048
6,300
26,925
2,522
11,471
7,956
273
3,365
5,833
16,036
10,519
-10,126
7,063
5,435
2,985
1,631
11,241
96,635
0
0
0
761,262
472,055
23,048
8,295
9,280
3,254
19,604
9,697
1,141
3,167
7,393
17,808
8,135
0
7,063
3,887
3,825
2,051
4,845
193,297
52,000
15,775
75,000
940,620
650,767
51,025
24,214
726,006
$1,487,268
683,083
53,380
24,996
761,459
1,702,079
53
NORTHMINSTER PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
January 1, 2014 – December 31, 2014
BALANCE FORWARD
Income
Circle Pledges
Opportunity Giving
$403.45
$1341.00
106.95
$1447.95
Total income including balance
EXPENSES
Benevolences
Presbytery Pledges
Local Pledges, Thank
Offering, Birthday offering,
Least Coin
Christmas Mission Giving
TOTAL EXPENSES
ENDING BALANCE 12-31-14
Judy Laning, Treasurer
54
$1851.40
$500.00
181.95
800.00
$1481.95
$369.45
OFFICERS FOR 2015
ELDERS
Class of 2015
Bobby Emig *
Greg Gibson
Jim McGrath ****
Jan Rue **
Harry Stone
John Williams
Class of 2016
Gary Lord
Lynn Saul
Doug Smucker
Scott Steel
Bob Webbink *
John Zimmermann
Class of 2017
Don Bahr
Kim Besserman
Dave Decker
Karen Friedhoff
Rick Merritt
Clerk
Tom Gougeon
Class of 2016
Dale Hinrichs
Jim Long *
Cliff Mecklenburg
Class of 2017
Al Neumann
Marilyn Schwarz
Ervena Weingartner
Asst. Treasurer
Class of 2016
Colleen Ehrnschwender
Karen Emig *
Linda Frisa
Diana Gase
Jane Janzen
Carl Kappes
Kip Loucks
Julie Schubert *
Olaf Strom *
Sue Wagner
Class of 2017
Sharon Bauman
Kathryne Brockfield *
Claire Dingle
Bob Friedhoff *
Alice Lee
Marcia Jones
Joyce Merritt *
Rich Reder *
Shirley Reder *
Janet Tobin
Class of 2016
Patrick Hasler *
Greg Coffman *
Class of 2017
Dave Addison *
Karen Albrecht *
Treasurer
Sandy Holzman
TRUSTEES
Class of 2015
Ron McAfee **
Gary Miller *
Tom Turner
DEACONS
Class of 2015
Jim Bowles
Edie Harper *
Elizabeth Hasler *
Bill McMillen ***
Diane Millazzo **
Pattie Payne
Bob Brockfield ****
Nancy Runck
Julie Turner
Jenny Williams
ENDOWMENT FUND
Class of 2015
Mike Brooks
Kay Carran ***
Jim Golan, Financial Manager
*
**
***
****
Second Term
completing a two year unexpired term
completing a three year unexpired term
completing a one year unexpired term
Advisors
Jim Hartman
Wally Holzman
Ben Lawrence
For I know the plans I have for you,
declares the Lord
Plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future.
Then you will call upon me
and come and pray to me,
and I will listen to you.
You will seek me and find me
when you seek me with all your heart
Jeremiah 29:11-13
List of Staff
(as of 12/31/14)
Pastor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff Hosmer
Associate Pastor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nancy Ross-Zimmerman
Church Administrator/
Adult Discipleship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Jacobs
Crosspoint Worship Director . . . . . . . . Jeff Holmes
Director of Outreach
and Communications . . . .
Troy Bronsink
Educational Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary Hensey
Family Life Center Director . . . . . . . . . . Diane Kinsella
Interim Director of Student Ministries . Janelle Fair
Missions Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Laurie Laning
Technical Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rob Eberhardt
Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Don Bahr
Assistant Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandy Holzman
Financial Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Don Crose
Financial Assistants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beth Mizelle
Financial Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marianne Lord
Organist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Karen Balogh
Music Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn Miller
Music Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gary Tyler
Director of Children’s Music/
Bell Director. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lissa Ray
Nursery Coordinator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diane Siegel
Volunteer Coordinator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kate Eberlein
Office Staff: Susan Smith & Trudy Teemley
Maintenance Staff: Mike Houston