September 20, 2022

Church Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, September 20,2022 6:00 – 8:00 PM Present: Judy Evans, Tom Bernth, Pam Shaw, Steve Bauer, Kristin Crawford, Pastor Luther Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau

Welcome Back to Pastor Luther: Pastor will be with us on Sundays and Wednesdays and lead the Wednesday morning adult class as well as have a role with the students in confirmation classes. We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Devotions - Tom Bernth
  3. Thank You Cards to Pastor George Koch, Pastor Dave Dalzell as well as our musicians
  4. Meeting minutes – August 18, 2022 – attached and accepted

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report - See report.
  2. Secretary Report - No report
  3. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl: See Sunday bulletin with report b. Grow in Faith – Tom Bernth: See report c. Come Together – Pam Shaw: No report

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church – Follow-up • Call Process Update - Meeting will be held in person with Pastor Steve Wilco on Monday Sept. 26th at 7:00 • Leadership for Property Team – update: no new information regarding property team chair. • Plan to update by-laws: Have not been updated since 2006-06. Judy and Steve will contact Russ to initiate a by-laws committee to begin this much needed work. • Cross for the Sanctuary: on hold for now. • RIC update: Committee has dissolved; however looking for an annual date to celebrate RIC Sunday. • Coffee Making - To increase number of members who can make coffee; directions will be written out so any member can follow them to assist in coffee making on Sunday mornings. • Adult Education - Pastor Luther will talk to Mark Edwards and Russ Hilliard. He plans to begin a class on Sunday October 16th.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church – New Business • Safety Concerns - Police Officer met with Judy and others and shared a safety plan that included defining a safe place to meet outdoors after exiting the building, with the key component regarding safety being to exit as quickly as possible, no matter what the emergency is. Various options were discussed, such as educating some members to become safety officers (who are aware of all exits to direct others to safety) o Fire Evacuation Plan o Active Shooter Evacuation Plan - o Safe Church policy – draft from 2018 attached, link to ELCA guidance - will contact the SYNOD to determine present Safe Church Policy. https://www.elca.org/About/Churchwide/Office-of-the-Secretary/Legal-Issues/Sample-Policies • Homeless person concerns: Pastor Luther will assist in guiding people in need of food and shelter who come to our church for help. There has been an increase more recently. • Stewardship brochure - question if the brochure was for new members? • Upcoming Events October 23: Stewardship, Time and Talent Sunday, Work day at Operation Blessing

We Look to the Future • To-do’s for next month: • Agenda Items for next month: • Next Council meeting – October 18, 2022 • Council Retreat will be held October 29th at Manchester by the Sea and led by Pastor Luther.

Closing Prayer

August 18, 2022

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Agenda Thursday, August 18, 2022 6:00 – 8:00 PM

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. In attendance: Judy, Paul, Steve, Tom, Pam
  2. Blessings:
  3. Devotions - done by Judy. A reflection of Hebrews series preached in the month of August
  4. Thank You Cards- Lara Scammon, Bonnie and Jill for VBS,
  5. Meeting minutes – July 17, 2022 – approved on line We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past
  6. Treasurer Report : Doing well in finances due to expenses being down. Offering is only $700 below our annual average to date.
  7. Office: a. we have deleted 600 from the Elexio to prevent scams or theft attempts from our membership b. Mark said we are getting more requests for financial help and gas cards from outside people i. Asking social ministry to offer a recommendation. This was typically addressed by pastors
  8. Secretary Report – Is Pastor Larson available on September 18th? TBD
  9. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl: o Caring Connections- Cheryl doing follow up temple talk again in September o Making phone calls to people who may want visitation o Social Ministry: Jessica Feely computer is down. Wants to have all email addresses and contact info from all teams b. Grow in Faith formation– Tom Bernth
  10. Confirmation a. 1st meeting is Sunday September 11th to explain the program i. Proposed meeting for confirmation class to lay out the schedule for confirmation for the year. b. Confirmation class is each Sunday 10:45 to 11:45AM c. Confirm: Is Pastor Luther committing to teach Confirmation at least during his contract? YES d. There are 5 kids in 9th, 10th or 11th grade who would be confirmed in May near pentecost i. Nobody is confirmed this October ii. There are currently (2) 1st year confirmands e. The confirmation program is from Augsburg Fortress. “Here We Stand” with a bible f. Canoe Trip in the works (Tentatively) for confirmation class either Sept 18 or 27th. The hope is at Camp Calumet g. There are 2 Camp Calumet confirmation events in late winter/ early spring. (attend just 1)
  11. Faith formation Sunday proposed idea a. 1 Sunday each month b. Pastor to present a program to adults, and people of all ages
  12. Sunday school a. Only a max of 5 kids to potentially attend each week b. Decided to not have a Sunday School program for K-6
  13. Come Together – Pam Shaw a. Pam suggested there is a need for new member classes i. Discussion followed b. Recognize people who are moving away from the congregation with a blessing

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church • MSP Team Update o New welcome statement clarified that we embrace our RIC philosophy and plan to continue to enhance our welcome statement o Liquid assets are about $360,000 o Submit the MSP this week • Leadership for Property Team – TBD • Pastor Luther’s contract, starting September 25 • Plan to update by-laws : Address this in fall with Russ Hilliard • Cross for the Sanctuary: Table till fall • Active shooter preparation: Local chief of Police coming to church to meet with Mark, Dave M, Judy • Church insurance – Dave Smith not continuing, looking for replacement • Indonesian Church concerns discussed regarding their pastor • One worship service or two – refer to Worship Team: At this time Pastor Luther supports 1 service. Hold for now • Good News Garage presentation – refer to Social Ministry: Want to have temple talk, approved • Pastor George’s last service with us – September 11 (possibly the 18th) He has been a great asset and friend

Upcoming Events There will be a singing group on Wednesday Evenings called Amare We Look to the Future • To-do’s for next month: • Agenda Items for next month: • Next Council meeting – September 20, 2022 (Pastor Luther may attend) Closing Prayer

July 19, 2022

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Wednesday, July 19 6:00 – 8:00 PM Present: Judy Evans, Tom Bernth, Steve Bauer, Kristin Crawford, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau Pastor Dave Dalzell Absent: Pam Shaw

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Devotions - postponed
  3. Thank You Cards - Paul will write cards to our homebound church members.
  4. Meeting minutes – June 22, 2022 – approved on line We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past
  5. Treasurer Report - Q & A
  6. Secretary Report – no report
  7. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl • Cheryl Brigham is looking for a replacement for Pat Woolett, to do the college care packages that go out in the 4th quarter b. Grow in Faith – Tom Bernth • See report c. Come Together – Pam Shaw • No report.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

• MSP Team Update – 6PM o Dot Kasik shared that the narrative portion is for the most part complete. Other descriptor items need to be checked off as well as the compensation package included. • Leadership for Property Team – Update provided by Steve. No new team leader at this point. • Summer Schedule – Plan made previously are being implemented successfully with lay people sharing various faith endeavors and missions. • Time and talent –Under development by Steward Team • By-laws revision – revision to begin in the fall • Cross for the Sanctuary – This will be actively explored in the fall after summer vacations. • Active shooter preparation – Judy will contact the Newington Police Department as well as our insurance agent to explore if there are any criteria in place. The Synod is presently working on developing a protocol or guide to address this need. Presently all doors are locked after the service begins, with the exception of the large glass door entry. • Request for financial support – Opted to solicit funds by inviting church members to financially contribute to help support the medical needs of one of our members. • Team member lists need updating – All team leaders will send Judy and Mark Donahue a list of present team members from their various committees. Upcoming Events • Plans for the fall o Pastor Luther will return to leading us in worship on Sunday and on Wednesdays as in the spring. His first Sunday will be the Sunday September 18th. • We Look to the Future • To-do’s for next month: • Agenda Items for next month: a. Appreciation Sundays for staff and volunteers. b. Develop a historical record of gifts given to Holy Trinity Church by members. c. With revisions of by-laws address the need for some committees to have a team leader (e.g. Stewardship Team, Library, etc.)
d. Explore having the Hospitality team return as a way to connect members and develop a sense of belonging. • Next Council meeting – Thursday August 18, 2022 Closing Prayer

June 22, 2022

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Wednesday, June 22, 2022 6:00 – 8:00 PM

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Devotions - Kristen
  3. Thank You Cards: Musicians and Temple Talk Speakers: Ade and Tommy Monareh, and Jill Schock
  4. Meeting minutes – May 17, 2022 – approved on line We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past
  5. Treasurer Report – see reports
  6. Secretary Report – no report
  7. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl • No report b. Grow in Faith – Tom Bernth • See report
    c. Come Together – Pam Shaw
    • No report

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church • Covid Protocol Review – continue as is, masks are optional. • MSP Team Update – working on drafting the statement for completion by mid-July • Call committee update – Will meet with Steve Wilco once MSP is completed • Leadership for Property Team – update • Summer Plans – Worship schedule, VBS, camp scholarships • Enlisting worship assistant volunteers, volunteers for other ministries – ongoing challenge • Follow-up from semi-annual meeting • Constitution update, need to update by-laws. Will initiate in the fall, with focus of updating membership qualifications. • Cross for the Sanctuary – Consul set up with Andrew Lane o Discussed need to develop a formal historical list of gifts given to the church by members over the years • Active shooter preparation – discussion o Will contact Synod to see if protocols have been developed

We Look to the Future • Next Council meeting – July 19, 2022, Tuesday, 6:00 Closing Prayer

May 17, 2022 Meeting Minutes

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, May 17, 2022 In Person at Church

Present: Judy Evans, Tom Bernth, Pam Shaw, Steve Bauer, Kristin Crawford, Pastor Dave Dalzell Zoom: Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau

We Gather In God’s Name

Opening Prayer

  • Blessings – Steve’s grandchildren’s needs

  • Devotions – Paul Karl a. Plans for future devotions: June – Kristen, July – Judy, August – Tom, September - Erlinde

  • Thank You Cards: Pastor Luther, Pop Up Pantry

  • Meeting minutes – April 19, 2022 – approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report – See report. Perhaps share with the congregation that if their Elexio givings are consolidated to every other week versus weekly, costs would be reduced since the church is charged per transaction. Have shared that the use of a credit card is at higher cost for us, with positive results from the congregation.
  2. Secretary Report – See report a. Mark will be taking some vacation over the next few months. Will determine a plan for someone to pick up messages and check email during his absence.
  3. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl, No report. Discussed how information from members is shared, so Ministry teams can respond to needs as they arise accordingly. Cheryl will be giving a ministry minute talk in the near future. b. Grow in Faith – Tom Bernth, See report. • Confirmation discussion.: Four events planned. Pastor Dave shared there are online confirmation programs: Spark House: Re:Form c. Come Together – Pam Shaw, No report. Discussion on occasionally supplementing worship with speakers vs. a sermon to support Pastor Koch.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  • Covid Protocol Review – no change. Continue as mask optional. If others have extra test kits, share them with others at church.
  • Follow-Up from the “Why Us” Workshop plans for MSP. We have all the information needed except for the information: What kind of Pastor do the members desire? Also are considering shortening the service this coming Sunday to encourage attendance. On “Why Us?” workshop, Pastor Luther emphasized infinity groups and/or small groups, also capitalizing on Sunday mornings.
  • Call committee update: Met on 5/9/22, Personal introductions and Dick Topping has agreed to be our chairperson. Next meeting will be with Pastor Steve Wilco, TBD.
    • Call Committee: Erlinde Beliveau, Bobbie Febbo, Stephanie Goupil, Julie Moore, Dick Topping, Dave Smith, Tina Maiorino
  • Leadership for Property Team – Steve Bauer. See Report. Dave Mercer developed list of responsibilities, will add this to dropbox.
  • Summer Plans
    • Worship Schedule. Very few supply Pastors available; Worship Calendar updates discussed.
    • VBS: See Grow in Faith Report.
    • Camp scholarships: Shared in Tidings.
    • Pastoral care emergencies. Schedule summer set up. Both Pastor Koch and Pastor Dalzell are covering.
  • Enlisting Worship Assistant Volunteers, volunteers for other ministries: Provide hard copies for members to sign up, set up aisle near the Welcoming table and at the church picnic.
  • RIC follow-up, banner: Glen Oswald submitted article to synod. Discussion of next step since it is an ongoing process. ? RIC committee/coordinator. Perhaps invite original committee to discuss ideas with Council when new Pastor arrives.
  • Safe Church Policies – Seminars available to look into developing church policies.
  • Agenda for semi-annual meeting, June 12th . Discuss what will be reviewed.
  • June 12th picnic plans – discussion including sign-ups for prep and food.
  • Building Use procedures, compensation guidelines – continue to be explored
  • Steeple Update – no further info
  • Fall Retreat – will discuss dates in the future
  • Discussed exploring options to purchase a cross for the sanctuary

Upcoming Events

  • May 22 – MSP Workshop
  • Bike and Build – June 6 -12, departing on June 12
  • Semi-annual meeting, picnic – June 12

We Look to the Future

  • To-do’s for next month:
  • Agenda Items for next month: Discuss new cross for sanctuary.
  • Next Council meeting – Wednesday June 22

Closing Prayer

April 19, 2022 Council Minutes

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, April 19, 2022 In Person at Church Present: Judy Evans, Paul Karl, Tom Bernth, Pam Shaw, Steve Bauer, Erlinde Beliveau, Kristin Crawford Zoom: Pastor Luther

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

• Blessings

• Devotions – Steve Bauer

a. Plans for future devotions: May – Paul, June – Kristen, July – Judy, August – Tom, September - Erlinde • Thank You Cards: RIC committee, Julie Moore (for altar guild service), Lara Scammon (for cards to youth), Lara and Jill Schock for making crosses from palms for Palm Sunday) • Meeting minutes – March 15, 2022 – approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report – See report
  2. Secretary Report – See report
  3. Pastor Luther’s Report • Shared plans for baptism this coming Sunday and graveside service on May 18th • Shared plans to shorten service on May 1st to make time to discuss “Why Us?” • Shared reflections on observations of our church body and our future chapter
  4. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul Karl, No report b. Grow in Faith – Tom Bernth, See report c. Come Together – Pam Shaw, No report

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

• Covid Protocol Review – no change

• Transition Team Update –Reviewed by Paul, see meetings below • Call committee / MSP writers – finalize, plan to convene

o MSP Team: Dot Kasik, Linda Edwards, Mark Beliveau, Jo Whiting

o Call Committee: Erlinde Beliveau, Bobbie Sebow, Stephanie Goupil, Julie Moore, Dick Topping, Dave Smith, Tina Maiorino

o Plan to share these committee names to congregation in the Tidings this week.

o Call committee will be reached out to, to set up meetings.

• Leadership for Property Team – Steve Bauer will now represent the Property Team to Council instead of Erlinde Beliveau

• Summer Plans – Council approved plans for Grow in Faith Team to move forward with VBS this summer

• Constitution – Draft to be distributed to Council and then to congregation by May 1st, with plans to be voted on at the Semi-annual meeting. After that point in time, by-laws, as well as chart flows regarding church leader roles, need to be revised since last updated in 2005.

• Review of proposed changes to building use procedure – draft attached

o Council approved draft with the exception for exploration of cost revisions.

  1. Supply pastors – Judy will call to set this up beginning May 22nd through the summer. Pastor Koch is available.

  2. Mark Donahue received phone call from non-members visiting from out of state who attended Easter service with us. They were wearing masks, did not attend breakfast. One of these visitors had tested positive for Covid. Plan to share this info in Tidings on Thursday to inform congregation. No other action needed.

Upcoming Events

o May 1– “Why Us” Workshop

o May 15 – Pastor Luther’s last Sunday at HTELC

o May 22– MSP Workshop

o Bike and Build – June 6 -12, departing on June 12

o Semi-annual meeting, picnic – June 12

We Look to the Future

• To-do’s for next month: Revised costs for Building Use

• Agenda Items for next month: Steeple Update, Fall Retreat

• Next Council meeting – May 17, June 21

Closing Prayer

March 15, 2022

Council Meeting 3/15/22 - Zoom

Present: Judy Evans, Paul Karl, Tom Bernth, Pam Shaw, Steve Bauer, Erlinde Beliveau

Zoom: Kristin Crawford, Pastor Luther

We Gather in God’s Name

Blessings and Devotions (by Tom) were shared.

We celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report – Offerings low to date this year; have also had higher expenses (utilities, oil, snowplowing).
  2. Secretary Report – No report (Agenda item of Property Team Leader listed below)
  3. Interim Pastor Luther’s Report a. Will continue to restore liturgy to pre-covid practices, including the offering. As members re-integrate back into a fuller worship service; need exists for ushers, deacons, and greeters. b. Pastor will begin streaming a 15-20 minute devotional service on Wednesdays at 12:30 during Lent. c. The Rouleau family have asked for Pastor to baptize their baby. (April 24th) d. Confirmation classes on hold for now due to a number of reasons, one of which includes only one family is interested and available at this point in time.
    Plan: Tom will bring this to the education committee’s attention. The possibility of this family as well as other families attending Calumet’s Confirmation Camp June 21-25th will also be explored.
  4. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul i. Reviewed the two branches of “Serve the Lord” – Social Ministry (meets needs outside of the church body) and Caring Connections (meets needs within the church body). ii. Caring Connections has started to resume in person visits of people in need. b. Grow in Faith – Tom i. Council supported VBS to meet Wednesday nights for one month this summer. Dates and program to be determined. ii. Confirmation alternatives to be explored through Calumet or other area churches. iii. Sunday School presently on hold.
    c. Come Together – Pam i. Plan to resume Easter breakfast as well as the Annual Picnic. Tables of Eight will resume this fall. We Seek God’s Direction for our Church
  5. Review of Covid data - Masks will be now be optional. Plans include reinstating the coffee hour.
  6. Transition Committee Update - Paul a. Plan to meet this Thursday at 6:00 to review CAT results with Steve Wilco. b. Rebecca Schrumm needed to step down as chair of the Transition Team and Dan Scammon has stepped in.
  7. Call Committee/MSP writers – discussion took place regarding potential members invited to be a part of either committee.
  8. Leadership for Property Team a. Dave continues to fill in due to not being able to find a person to meet this need. Plan to talk with Dave and see if he would be willing to tie up the loose ends on the most important projects already set in motion before he formally steps down. This need for a replacement will be brought to the congregation’s attention again. b. Unfortunately due to the nature of the many facets of this role, having a job board (for members to volunteer for) does not necessarily reduce the amount of work a team leader would need to do.
  9. Request for new member class/process a. Plan to hold a new members class in the spring after Easter.
  10. Vacation Bible School – see above
  11. Welcoming people to worship, name tags, greeter. a. Pens will be removed with only markers available to use so others can see name tag. Also we will look into buying bigger nametags. b. Need for greeters will be included in the sign up Genius.
  12. Response to email scam: Mark will send out an email educating members to not respond to these emails requesting help from the Pastor or others within the church.
  13. Need to design and initiate process to review membership rolls annually a. Plan: Smaller group of Scott Carson, Judy Evans, Mark Donahue, and Erlinde Beliveau will meet to discuss how this may be done and return to Council with a possible plan.

Upcoming Events

  • Thursday, March 17, 2022, - CAT Interpretation, 6-8 zoom meeting
  • Sunday, March 27, 2022 – Presentation of CAT results to congregation
  • RIC Celebration – April 3, 2022
  • Holy Week and Easter Worship Plans
  • May 1 – “Why Us” Workshop
  • May 22 – MSP Workshop
  • Bike and Build – June 6 -11, departing on June 12

We Look to the Future

  • To-do’s for next month:
  • Agenda Items for next month:
  • Next Council meeting – April 19, 2022

Closing Prayer

February 15, 2022

Council Meeting 2/15/22 - Zoom

Present: Judy Evans, Paul Karl, Tom Bernth, Pam Shaw, Steve Bauer, Erlinde Beliveau, Pastor Luther

Absent: Kristin Crawford

We Gather in God’s Name

Introductions, Blessings, Thanksgiving and Devotions were shared. Welcome to Pam, Steve, and Tom! Thank you cards – recipients identified.

We celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report – Offerings low in January. Will wait to see how we fare in February before taking action.
  2. Secretary Report – See report a. Erlinde will talk to Mark re: host finding process for events held at Holy Trinity. Next event is March 30th: Amare Cantare Concert, host needed.
  3. Interim Pastor Luther’s Report a. Will perform brief prayer of commissioning of new council members at next Sundays’ service. b. Recommended restoring some of the liturgy we celebrated prior to Covid (all lessons, hymn of the day). Also discussed restoring practice of communion, along with retaining present practice of communion at one’s chair. Pastor offered to use homemade bread and wine would be offered in plastic cups. Council approved this to begin the first Sunday during Lent. Pastor Luther will engage in conversation with the Worship team to finalize details. c. Pastor Luther offered to provide a 15-20 minute Lenten devotion on Wednesdays around midday/lunch. This would be offered either through zoom or streamed via Facebook.
  4. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul, No Report. b. Grow in Faith – Tom, No report. Committees reviewed under Grow in Faith. c. Come Together – Pam , No report . Committees reviewed under Come Together. We Seek God’s Direction for our Church
  5. Review of Covid data - Numbers are decreasing. Services will be expanded starting in Lent. See above.
  6. Transition Committee Update - Paul a. In the next month CAT report will be done and an interpretation provided. Two more items will be completed by the Transition Team: a “Why Us?” meeting and the Ministry Site Profile Workshop. b. As the Transition Team has gone forward independently in an efficient and productive manner, Pastor Elizabeth’s services are no longer needed. Council supports this decision after discussions have already taken place at different times with Judy, Paul, Pastor Luther, and Steve Wilco. Steve Wilco will let Pastor Elizabeth know that we will release her from the contract. c. Tentative timeline is the MSB be done around the end of May with the Call Committee starting up early in summer.
  7. Call Committee/MSP writers – discussion took place sharing ideas
  8. Our contact Pastor Dave Dalzell – Update a. Plan to pursue Pastor Dave’s services on a per diem basis versus a weekly salary. Will see if this is an option for him.
  9. Leadership for Property Team, challenges of filling leadership a. Erlinde will review and meet with some Property Team members to tease out what jobs can be done by unskilled members on a regular basis through a sign up board or online system. Also the Council recommended making this positon a 1-2 year term. Need to continue to address vacant position.
  10. Request for new member class/process a. Plan to hold a new members class in the spring after Easter.
  11. Upcoming Events a. Rescheduling the RIC Celebration – April 3rd b. Supply Pastor for March 8: Pastor George Koch c. Lent and Easter Worship Plans i. Ash Wednesday Services: noon time and 7 pm ii. Holden Services offered Wednesday evenings, 15-20 minute lunch Lenten devotional online with Pastor Luther iii. Easter Services: Pastor George Koch will officiate; times are to be determined d. Bike and Build – June 6-11, departing June 12th
  12. Other Items: a. Tom brought up the need to return to using name tags. All agreed. Greeters will encourage people to use name tags. b. Next Council meeting will be in person. Paul will contact Mark regarding pricing out a large monitor so that those who cannot attend can view the “whole” meeting with greater ease and connection.
    We Look to the Future
  13. To do’s for next month:
  14. Agenda items for next month: Continue discussion on service leaders
  15. Future dates of Council Meetings/Events: a. March 15 b. April 19th? (two days after Easter)

January 11, 2022

Council Meeting 1/11/22 - Zoom

Present: Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Julie Moore, Paul Karl, Linda Edwards, Erlinde Beliveau, Pastor Luther, Kristen Crawford

We Gather in God’s Name

  • Blessings, Thanksgiving and devotions were shared.

We celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report – will be submitted in the next day or two
  2. Secretary Report – See report
  3. Interim Pastor Luther’s Report – grateful for Mark Donahue’s assistance in the orientation process.
  4. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul, See Report • Pop Up Pantry will be kept as an in/out fund 
    b. Grow in Faith – Julie, See report. In addition
    • Faith will oversee virtual monthly Sunday School through the fall. Faith will also be meeting with Pastor Luther to support faith formation. 
    c.    Come Together – Linda, No report
    We Seek God’s Direction for our Church
  5. Review of Covid data a. Plan: to continue “masks are highly recommended,” limit our worship to a 45 minute service, and no coffee hour (to be re-evaluated monthly). Also add a sign in at the welcoming table reminding people to socially distance.
  6. Nomination Committee Update a. One out of the three openings are filled.
  7. Transition Committee Update a. Have met 3 times with focus being on completing CAT in January.
  8. Our contact Pastor Dave Dalzell – Update a. Pastor Luther and Pastor Dave will talk/meet to discuss needs that arise.
  9. Ministry Allocation Plan a. Some specific items in budget reviewed. Kristen will present plan to the congregation during the Adult Forum 1/16/22.
  10. Discussion on filling service leaders vacancies a. Paul shared some creative ways (possibly co-leadership) for various service leader positions. This would offer some flexibility and decrease the time/responsibility commitment. Discussion will continue.
  11. Question about New Members – Pastor Luther will research what the current requirements or recommendations are for new members to join our church.
  12. Reconciling in Christ Celebration Plans – Cristina reviewed the plans for 1/30/22.
  13. Adult Forum Planning 1/16/22 – Ministry Allocation Plan will be shared. Forum will also be streamed for those who will not be able to attend next Sunday.
  14. Annual meeting planning – Reviewed agenda, recognition of individuals, and plans for voting. Next Sunday will announce openings for 2 delegates to attend the 2022 Synod Assembly in Worcester June 9-11. We Look to the Future
  15. To do’s for next month: Determine new member guidelines. Obtain supply pastor for March 8 and April 17 (Easter).
  16. Agenda items for next month: Continue discussion on service leaders
  17. Future dates of Council Meetings/Events: a. Sunday, Jan. 16th, 10:30 am, Adult Forum Annual Meeting – Preliminary b. Sunday, Jan. 23rd, 10:30 am, Annual Meeting c. Sunday, Jan. 30th, 9:30 am Reconciling in Christ Celebration and concert d. Sunday, Feb. 6th Snow date for Annual meeting instead of Jan. 30th
  18. February and March Council meetings tentatively set for February 8 and March 8. This will be reevaluated once new members join council.

December 12, 2021

Council Meeting 12/21/21

Zoom

Present: Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Julie Moore, Paul Karl, Kristen Crawford, Linda Edwards, Erlinde Beliveau, Pastor Elizabeth Nees

7:30-8:30

Zoom meeting held with Pastor Elizabeth.

Introductions completed. Pastor provided an overview of what we can expect. This Transition process can be a time of opportunity to become clearer as to who we are as a congregation. She will work together closely with the Transition Team. Her contract was reviewed. Pastor Nees left the meeting and the council continued to meet.

8:45 Decisions made

  • Accepted Pastor Elizabeth’s contract – to coach and provide support to the Transition Team
  • Accepted Pastor Luther’s contract to work one third of the week – Will be at Holy Trinity in person on Sundays and Wednesdays, with a mutually agreed upon time for confirmation to be held.
  • Will continue to employ Pastor Dave Dalzell to handle any emergency needs of the congregation through February. Will re-evaluate at that time.

November 18, 2021

Council Meeting 11/18/21

Present: Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Julie Moore, Paul Karl, Kristen Crawford, Linda Edwards, Erlinde Beliveau

We Gather in God’s Name Blessings, Thanksgiving and devotions were shared.

We celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

1. Treasurer Report – see report

a. Discussed results of Audit Report – will address inefficiencies of interplay of Elexio with Quick books at a later date. Finance procedures are in the process of being written. b.Dan Scammon gave a preliminary report re: pledges. 75% of pledges received totaling $177,000. Projected amount once all pledges are received is $238,000. c. Angie is being trained by Barry re: the financial process.

  1. Secretary Report – See report
  2. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul
  3. Cheryl Brigham is heading up Caring Connections.
  4. Bonnie Sanders last month of serving as the Soup Kitchen Leader is this month. b. Grow in Faith – Julie, See report
  5. Faith will continue the kids church, the website and portions of Sunday School through next May. c. Come Together – Linda
  6. Holden Advent vesper services will be at 5:30 on December Wednesday evenings
  7. Christmas Eve services: 4:00 and 8:00
  8. January 30th – RIC Celebration We Seek God’s Direction for our Church
  9. Review of Covid data – numbers of cases are rising. Plan: to move from “masks are optional” to “masks are highly recommended”
    1. Membership Review Plan: Cristina will send us the excel spreadsheet to review the names that are recommended to be taken off the membership roll due to death, relocation, or other life changes
      1. Nomination Committee Update – in process of scheduling a meeting
      2. Transition Committee Update – a. Team has been formed: Paul Karl, Cheryl Brigham, Byrl Short, Jessica Feeley, Eileen Kackenmeister, Jeff Morrison, Dan Scammon, Rebecca Shrumm, Audrien Soeun b. Plan is to start advertising about the CAT in December and then in January will complete the CAT
      3. Pastoral Leadership Discussion – Cristina will email Steve Wilco letting him know we are open to all options available to us to locate an interim minister.
    2. Supply Pastor -David Dalzell will be our emergency supply Pastor
      1. Ministry Spending Plan – Council will plan to maintain what is in place, using a conservative approach. Budget meeting occurring through zoom on Jan. 4th
      2. Housing Insecurity situation on Propert -This has been resolved in a humanitarian manner.
      3. RIC Update – Jan. 30th Celebration at church that morning as well having a concert in the afternoon.
      4. Constitution – Cristina will email council the revised Constitution. If all looks good, please email Cristina by nexty Tuesday letting her know that! Revamping the bylaws will be done on a later date.
      5. Other Considerations: a. Plan to have a council member here when Pastoral sub is working on a given Sunday arriving by 8:45. 11/21 – Julie; Nov. 28th - Erlinde, Dec. 5 – Judy, Dec. 12 – Paul, Dec. 19 – Cristina, Dec. 24 – Paul/Julie/ Judy We Look to the Future
  10. Future dates of Council Meetings: Dec. 14 at 6:00, Jan. 4th (zoom) to discuss budget, Jan. 11 at 6:00, Jan. 16 – Adult Forum, have all reports completed by then, Jan. 23 – Annual Meeting

November 8, 2021

Council Meeting 11/8/21 Present: Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Julie Moore, Paul Karl, Linda Edwards, Erlinde Beliveau

  1. Nomination Committee Update: • Tom Bernth and Jonathan Boch will be on the Nomination committee, along with Linda Edwards and Julie Moore.

  2. Discuss Pastoral Leadership • After reading Steve Wilco’s email regarding the high rate of vacancies open in churches as well as the limited number of candidates, it was decided to begin the Transition Committee process as soon as possible. • When Steve is with us on December 19th, a “Questions and Answer” session will be held during the Adult forum.

  3. Update on filling Transition Team, MSP Team, Call Committees • A list of members to call for the Transition team was developed and these people will be called. • Other teams and committees were discussed.

  4. Discuss any timeline changes • Plan that Transitions Committee meet ASAP with the goal of completing the CAT by January 9, 2022.

  5. Godspeed celebrations solidified.

November 1, 2021

Council Meeting 11/1/21 Present: Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Julie Moore, Paul Karl, Kristen Crawford, Linda Edwards, Erlinde Beliveau

  1. Update from Cristina: • Advent Vespers – Franklyn Vosburg will coordinate. • Christmas Eve services at 4:00 and 8:00. • Annual Congregational Meeting date set for 1/23/21, with snow date being 1/31/21 • RIC (Reconciling in Christ) celebration - the last Sunday in January (1/31/21) • Rebecca Febbo may cover some of Mark’s vacation days he is taking around the holidays • Mark is continuing to update membership list • Bonnie Sanders is stepping down from her years of service with the Soup Kitchen this month.

  2. Nominations Committee Update (from Linda and Julie) • Tom Bernth and Jonathan Boch will join the Nomination committee

  3. Pastoral Leadership Options beginning 1/2/22 – Cristina spoke to Steve Wilco from the Synod • Steve will let us know if there is a person who can fill a “transition eligible call”. This is someone who has finished a roster and is open to a new call. This person may not be trained as an interim but is trained in conflict mediation skills, has a good track record and life experience. • Steve will also contact the UCC Church Synod and the Episcopal Diocese to see if there are any interims available. • Plan: In 1-2 weeks, Cristina will email Steve to find out results of his phone calls. A decision will be made during our November 18th council meeting as to who we will reach out to, to serve as our interim pastor.

  4. CAT key Points – Judy • This assessment is completed by church members and best completed by email. • Requires 2 weeks of congregational preparation and then the online questionnaire stays open for 3 weeks to complete. • It provides information to prepare for the MSP • We can add 5 questions of our own

  5. Key Responsibilities of Transition Committee – Cristina o Transition Committee in 2015/2016 comprised of 7 members plus the Pastor • Hosting and organizing 6 events, 4 of which are required: o CAT o Needs Assessment o Why Us? o Review Mission Sustainability

  6. Formation of Transition Team, MSP Team, and Call Committee • Potential members for each committee were discussed with plans to call respective members to determine interest in involvement of these positions.

  7. Timeline for Transition Team Formation and CAT Roll out • Determine composition of Transition Team at November 18th Council meeting, with plans for this team to meet once in December before formally starting up in January. • CAT Rollout – January and February of 2022

  8. Pastor’s Celebration – 11/14/21 • Litany – Judy will review with Pastor Tim’s input • Refreshments after service • Book of farewell wishes or memories available to sign

October 21, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Thursday, October 21, 2021 6:00pm Held in person at church

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau Julie Moore (Welcome back), Linda Edwards, Kristine Crawford

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings: Kristen is engaged to Chris – Congratulations! Paul enjoyed playing in his golf league and did well! Julie is back with us! We are grateful for this wonderful weather.
  2. Thank You Cards - to Jim McKenna who has helped us once again with our heating system. To the Audit committee who has made helpful recommendations.
  3. Devotions – Pastor has recently read the book, “Without Oars”. Premise: The journey and the process is more important than the outcome or end goal. Just as the journey of trusting our Lord in the process is the key that opens doors and hearts.
    Read Luke Chapter 24: the Road to Emmaus: Disciples’ life changes - not sure where they will end up, but trust in the breath of God to guide their journey. How do we not fight against this breath of God?
  4. Meeting minutes September 16, 2021 - approved on line.

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report o See attached report. o Deposit for highway sign sent. 
    2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report.
    1. Pastor’s Report • See attached report. • Getting things ready for transition: Tim’s resignation accepted with last day being Nov. 14, 2021.
    2. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul • No report b. Grow in Faith- Julie • No report. • Early Bird deadline for Youth Convention in Minneapolis is 11/14. c. Come Together - Linda • No report. • Permission given to end midweek worship service. Pastor will directly contact regular 3 attendees.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Review of Covid Data: maintain present policy.
  2. Did not have conversation about book, How to Lead.
  3. Funeral policy will be tabled until the future. Present plan is that if a funeral needs to be covered by a supply Pastor, s/he will be reimbursed, including mileage, as part of HT’s spending plan.
  4. Nominations Committee comprises of 2 people from council and 2 people from the church. Open positions include the vice president position (was Judy; however she will be moving to the president’s position), Grow together position (was Julie), and Come together position (was Linda). Thus far nominating committee members from council are Julie and Linda as well as Pastor Tim.
  5. Audit report accepted. Thank you!

We Look to the Future

  1. To do’s for next month: • Develop Transition Team
  2. Agenda Items for next month: • Update on Audit Committee • Design Spending plan.
  3. Council Meetings – Will meet at church: third Thursday of the month November 18th, second Thursday of the month December 9th. Closing Prayer Council met with Steve Wilco (virtually) from the New England Synod following the Council meeting to learn about the transition process. Will meet virtually as a council on 11/1/21 at 7:00 to further discuss next steps.

September 16, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, September 16, 2021 6:00pm Held in person at church

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Judy Evans, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau Absent: Julie Moore, Linda Edwards, Kristine Crawford

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings – Julie is back at home after an extended caregiving visit to help her mother.
  2. Thank You Cards - to Cheryl for all her efforts in coordinating and helping others through Social Ministry.
  3. Devotions - Pastor Theme: Focused on knowing your “why?” Pastor Tim asked “What has been a favorite meal?” It is not necessarily solely about the family china or tablecloth but what do these “things” facilitate? Are they vehicles to our “why?” Can our facilitation methods change deriving the same outcome?
  4. Meeting minutes August 10, 2021 - approved on line.

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report o Funds are available to fill out the requirements of the investment policy stating we will have 3 months operating expenses in CDs. Logistics will be worked out by Barry and TD Bank. o Anggrin "Angie" Sihombing has expressed an interest in learning the QuickBooks way of recording our offerings and expenses, to assist in the process to “backup” the financial team’s wonderful expertise that we are relying on. 
    2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report. • Cristina shared an image of the final sign design.
    1. Pastor’s Report • See attached report. • Youth: Next summer’s Youth Gathering Plan to include 10 people (both youth and adults), cost = $15,000. 50% from Church fund, 25% from attendees, 25% from attendee’s fundraising events. • Youth: Confirmation will be held this year, either outside or inside with masks.
    2. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul • See report. Cheryl has stepped down from her Social Ministry role. All programs continue to operate. b. Grow in Faith- Julie • No report. C. Come Together - Linda • No report. • Inquiring about interest/resources for bell choir. • October 3rd – Church Octoberfest

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Review of Covid Data: Masks wearing highly recommended but not mandated at this time. This will be continued to be monitored.
  2. Conversation about book, How to Lead – refer to devotional content.
  3. Continued discussion regarding policy guidelines for funerals took place. Outcome: No fees will be charged at this time except for food costs unless people would like to “bestow an honorium or gift” as they so choose.

We Look to the Future

  1. To do’s for next month: • Pastor is working on Stewardship.
  2. Agenda Items for next month: • Begin the process of a Nominating committee. Cristina will conclude her service as president. Judy will be staying on! Vice presidency opening. • Design Spending plan.
  3. Council Meetings – Will meet at church: third Thursday of the month October 21st, third Thursday of the month November 18th, second Thursday of the month December 9th. Closing Prayer

August 10, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes Tuesday, August 10, 2021 6:00pm Held in person at church

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Kristen Crawford, Judy Evans, Linda Edwards, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau Absent: Julie Moore

We Gather In God’s Name Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings – filled with times with family and friends as well as vacations. An update on how Julie’s extended visit to help her mother was shared. Prayers sent her way.
  2. Thank You Cards - to Martha Belanger for organizing food/kitchen prep/ordering for Len Klein’s funeral.
  3. Devotions - Pastor Theme: Discussion focused on sharing and knowing some of our individual faith stories. These stories are the foundation of exploring “Why are we doing what we are doing now? How do these stories lead us into our next faith chapter?” For more reflections refer to Chapter 5 of How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going by Susan Beaumont.
  4. Meeting minutes June 8, 2021 - approved on line (no meeting took place in July 2021)

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report • See attached report • Offering is lower for the month of July and spending is low as well. • Kristen also said she will call Kara regarding a CD up for renewal. 
    2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report. • David requested feedback regarding the highway sign design. Feedback was shared and Erlinde will convey this to David.
    1. Pastor’s Report • See attached report.
    2. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord – Paul

• No report. Paul will be meeting with Cheryl and Jessica tomorrow. • Kristen questioned if we could get together youth for service projects. b. Grow in Faith- Julie • No report. C. Come Together - Linda • No report. Will be meeting next week with plans to meet quarterly. • Discussion focused on maintaining one service or returning to two services on Sunday. Decision was made to maintain one service for the time being. Linda will talk to our musicians regarding how this would impact them. • Discussed special event which would be a fall church picnic. Possible dates are 9/12, 10/3? Pastor will talk to the Bernths to see if they would like to head up the food organization of this event. We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Review of Covid Data: For the next couple of weeks we will not have a mask mandate but continue with our “self-policing”. People for the most part have chosen to mask up for indoor services. This will be continued to be monitored as Covid data is updated.
  2. Conversation about book, How to Lead occurred in devotional time with individual faith stories shared.
    We Look to the Future
  3. Discussion regarding policy guidelines for funerals took place. Pastor shared on how in the past he worked closely with funeral homes who would charge one unit price which encompassed specific line item payments to the musicians, church administrative personnel, pastor, as well as food purchases. His past church involvement also included a fee to use the church kitchen. Often funerals take place on a Saturday (not a work day for staff). Much discussion ensued. There was a range of past experiences: Some council members come from practices where they have assumed these costs as part of the funeral expenses. Others have paid some of these costs but not as an official line item but as a donation. Others assumed the church absorbs these costs as one of the church’s functions/roles. Some discussion pursued about making line items to cover costs of food. Linda shared that churches are looking to pay to have their financial work out serviced, this maybe the case for some of the funeral process as well, due to our societal shift of less volunteer hours being available overall. Pastor suggested to develop guidelines that include paying the musicians, administrator/technology ($50), and food ordering ($75), with an optional and suggested donation to the Pastor of $200.
    Plan: To wait a month to allow members to think about this before guidelines are firmed up and decided upon.
  4. Agenda Items for next month: Funeral Guidelines.
  5. Cristina would like to have the Council over for dinner. Date of Friday Sept. 10th was chosen.
  6. Council Meetings – Will meet at church: Tuesday September 14th; Tuesday October 12

Closing Prayer

June 8, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, June 8, 2021 6:00pm

Held online via Zoom

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Kristen Crawford, Judy Evans, Linda Edwards, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau Absent: Julie Moore

We Gather In God’s Name

Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Thank You Cards - to Franklyn for helping out when Mark was unavailable and to Mark for putting together the service.
  3. Devotions - Pastor Theme: Discussion focused on the fourth chapter of How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going by Susan Beaumont, titled Deepening Group Discernment. Pastor shared video clip on meditation. Discussion followed and he invited us to engage in 5 minutes of stillness or quiet awareness each day.
  4. Meeting minutes May 11, 2021 - approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report • See attached report • Offering is a slightly lower, despite there being 5 weeks in May; however, expenditures are down. Nothing significant, but will monitor giving. • Kristen also said she will delay some changes in investment policies. She is monitoring these as well. 
    2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report. • This Friday 6/11 the alarm system will come to completion. • Erlinde will plan a follow-up with Dave regarding a task board (such as picking 2 tasks) and/or ask Pastor to make specific announcements when help is needed for a specific project. • Regarding vacant tent on church property, Pastor and Mark will take it down and leave a note, should someone return to it and claim it. Also Pastor knows Monica; a woman who is living out of her car and at times stays in the church’s parking lot. He has reached out to her.
    1. Pastor’s Report • See attached report. • Synod Assembly is virtual and coming up. • Pastor has a full weekend which includes a funeral and baptism.
    2. Ministry Team Reports a. Serve the Lord - Paul • See attached report • Paul and Pastor met with Cheryl and came up with a plan. Mark will be helping to recruit members as needed. • October is designated as Social Ministry month with the intention of increasing members’ awareness of the programs in place and how to be a part of them. • God’s Hands Weekend maybe 9/12? b. Grow in Faith- Julie • Backyard Wednesdays organization going well. C. Come Together - Linda • See attached report • Sign up for Tables of 8 to begin. • Discussed food for gatherings/worship. Council will provide food on Sunday June 20th. • Len Klein’s funeral set for July 22nd.
      We Seek God’s Direction for our Church
  2. Review of Covid Data: Protocols will remain in place for now.

We Look to the Future

  1. Redundancy of the church – Cristina spoke about how having other people as backup to carry out the various tasks of the church is needed. Two examples were discussed: the task of the handling the finances which Barry carries out and the role in technology that Mark performs. Franklyn filled in for Mark one week. Plan may include asking Barry and Dan to interchange information, should an emergency arise. Erlinde will forward Cristina and Mark the responsibilities that Dave Mercer outlined recently for the Property Committee. The plan also includes asking Julie for guidelines at a later date. The goal of writing the responsibilities or guidelines on how things get accomplished will help us in times of transition or when unexpected needs arise.
  2. Semi-Annual Meeting 6/13/21 • Plans are in place. Since Erlinde will not be present, Judy offered to take minutes. Thank you!
  3. Summer Events – Discussed different ideas – Council hosting a picnic or make your own sundae event. Another possibility is a smaller gathering at a restaurant/pub.
  4. To do’s for next month • Constitution and Bylaws review: Russ Hilliard is organizing a smaller group to develop a plan to do this. • Audit review will occur in August.
  5. Agenda Items for next month: None identified.
  6. Council Meetings – Will meet at church: Tuesday July 13th (Cristina may not be here), Tuesday August 10

Closing Prayer

May 11, 2021 Council Minutes

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, May 11, 2021 6:00pm

Held online via Zoom

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Kristen Crawford, Judy Evans, Linda Edwards, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau

Absent: Julie Moore

We Gather In God’s Name

Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Thank You Cards - to Cheryl Brigham for the many tasks she does.
  3. Devotions - Pastor Theme: Viewed video...thoughts on “Where is the church?”
  4. Meeting minutes April 13, 2021 - approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report
    • See attached report
    • Fees for electronic giving have decreased since last year.
    • Paul asked what percentage of members give electronically. Kristen will find that answer.
    • Question about scholarships - how often are payments distributed? Thus far $5500 has been given to St. Paul’s who then forwards this to Tanzania. Helen Gorranson works with Barry on this. $6800 was in the line time due to previous deposits.
  2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report.
    • Erlinde will plan a follow-up meeting with Dave and Tim to determine what would be the best way to delegate the tasks he outlined after the initial meeting.
  3. Pastor’s Report
    • See attached report.
    • Shared plans for VBS to occur weekly on Wednesday evenings this summer (6-6:30 worship, 6:30-7:45 VBS). Comment: confirm Indonesian congregation was invited.
  4. Ministry Team Reports
    • Serve the Lord - Paul
      • See attached report
      • Paul is concerned about how Cheryl is assuming responsibility for many tasks and feeling spread very thin. Tim suggested Paul, he and Cheryl meet and discern what she would like to do and can do, and what can be dispersed to other interested members.
      • Paul also would like to invite more people to assist in the task of “counting” after the service. There presently are only 2 sets of counters (he and his wife, Barry and Phyllis). Tim recommended that he, Paul, and Mark meet to set up a workable schedule and reach out to previous counters.
      • Linda commented on how we can hopefully explore how the intersection of coming together and the caring team can overlap and wonders what this could look like in our church activities.
    • Grow in Faith- Julie
      • See attached report
    • Come Together - Linda
      • See attached report
      • Discussion on resuming some level of Tables of 8. Kristen shared she thought offering something for teenagers to reengage is needed as well.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Update about reviewing Church’s Constitution and bylaws Plan: Russ Hilliard will be moving ahead with this but he is very busy now and will start this process in the near future (this year).
  2. Audit Committee Discussion - review 2020 Plan: Pastor shared that both Matt and Kurt Kasik are able to do the audit. This will be completed by the end of this year.
  3. Review of Covid Data: Protocols will remain in place as is for now (5/11/21). Paul shared his thoughts/feelings on his readings and perceptions of worshipping during this liminal season as we emerge out of Covid. Plan: This summer our services will be outdoors at 9:30 with people wearing masks with singing. This service will be livestreamed and be offered on Zoom. If inclement weather, the service will move indoors. At this writing, on 5/13/21 CDC came out with new guidelines that will expand our worship options. What this will look like will be determined over the next week.
  4. Discussion focused on the third chapter of How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going by Susan Beaumont. The soul of a church institution is not something we can develop by following a certain task list but more so emerges from our faith practices. That being said, the question arises what will help us pass our faith to the next generation?

We Look to the Future

  • Upcoming calendar review (next month)
    • Council Meetings - Tuesday evenings 6-8: June 8th (possibly at Paul’s home), July 13th (Cristina may not be here), August 10
    • Semi Annual Meeting: June 13th, rain date - June 27th Following an outdoor service, there will be a 15 minute break for coffee/ cookies /fellowship, then the meeting will occur with Cristina and Tim sharing reports. Kristen will provide a brief financial update as well.
  • Erlinde will provide follow up report on Property Team delegation process.
  • Paul will report on Caring Ministry’s options to expand coverage needs.
  • Read Chapter 4 in How To Lead and be prepared to discuss.

Closing Prayer

ADDENDUM: Met on Monday, 5/17/21 to discuss how new CDC guidelines impact our decisions for worship.

Outcome: Starting 5/23/21, the 8:30 indoor service will increase its capacity to 60, attendees will wear masks and can participate singing. On 6/13/21, transition to single outdoor service at 9:30, masks are not required. This service will be streamed on line and recorded. If inclement weather, the service will occur indoors.

April 13, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes

Tuesday, April 13, 2021 6:00pm

Held online via Zoom

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Kristen Crawford, Julie Moore, Judy Evans, Linda Edwards, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau

We Gather In God’s Name

Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Thank You Cards - for memorial gift in honor of Stu Wemple; David Ronka for all his efforts to produce seminar during Lent
  3. Devotions - Pastor
    • Theme: The church is always asking ourselves what expresses the love of God to one another? Are we revealing His/Her love to ourselves and others? We do not want to be held back by our anxieties and we do not want to be limited by our expectations. Whole group activity - completed and shared.
  4. Meeting minutes March 18, 2021 - approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report
    • See attached report
    • Offering is back up. Some families are sending their giving annually.
    • HT did not qualify for a PPE loan.
    • Kristen - The Good Samaritan Fund was moved to Pastor’s Discretionary Fund to streamline items (since both line items serve the same purpose).
    • A number of families (5) responded to the request to switch from giving gifts via credit card to online banking. Some other families offered to give more to offset the cost of giving via credit card. There is a 55% increase for online giving compared to last year.
  2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report.
    • Erlinde will plan to contact David Mercer to explore how to lighten the load of the Property team since their size is dwindling. This will be reported during the next meeting.
  3. Pastor’s Report
    • See attached report.
    • Easter services went well.
  4. Ministry Team Reports
    • Serve the Lord - Paul
      • See attached report
      • Linda offered to step into the role of organizing and sharing information for the intercessory online prayer team. Cheryl is temporarily taking over Donna Huot’s responsibilities in this area.
    • Grow in Faith- Julie
      • See attached report
      • There will be no confirmation camp at Calumet this year but confirmands are invited to attend the 1 week session this summer as a camper.
    • Come Together - Linda
      • No report

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Initial discussion about reviewing Church’s Constitution and bylaws
    • Plan: Pastor will contact Russ HIlliard.
  2. Audit Committee Discussion - review 2020
    • Plan: Pastor has reached out to Matt. Matt said he would help out in this area. Pastor will also contact Kurt Kasik to see if he can assist in this process, with the goal of getting it done this year.
  3. Review of Covid Data: Protocols will remain in place as is for now.
  4. Planned date of church council meetings to be the second Tuesday of the month.
  5. Snippets/Strands from discussion focused on the second chapter of How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going by Susan Beaumont.
    • Paul: Shared part of an article that he read in Investor’s Digest. This article aligned with themes of the second chapter. One needs to work on being unbiased and listen to the needs of others (consumers, in this case). It is important to not be locked into the same way of doing things.
    • Judy: Reminded us that no one masters the art of leading with Presence 100% of the time. The concepts of Advocacy vs. Attending resonated with her. Advocacy has an assumption that “you know better”

We Look to the Future

  • Upcoming calendar review (next month)
    • Council Meetings: May 11, 2021
    • Semi Annual Meeting: June 13th, rain date - June 20th
  • Pastor and Cristina will provide a summary of where we are via video through zoom. Will include a written financial report.
  • SISC (Seacoast Interfaith Sanctuary Coalition) - Team is active at our church and no need for further involvement from Council. Scott will drop down the line items to support groceries for April-June.
  • Erlinde will report on options to expand coverage needs for Property Team.
  • Read Chapter 3 in How To Lead and be prepared to discuss.

Closing Prayer

March 18, 2021

Holy Trinity Council Meeting Minutes

Thursday, March 18, 2021 6:00pm

Held online via Zoom

Present: Tim Krick, Cristina Dolcino, Kristen Crawford, Julie Moore, Judy Evans, Linda Edwards, Paul Karl, Erlinde Beliveau

We Gather In God’s Name

Opening Prayer

  1. Blessings
  2. Thank You Cards
  3. Meeting minutes February 10, 2021 - approved on line

We Celebrate and Give Thanks for the Past

  1. Treasurer Report
    • See attached report
    • Linda continues to clarify the requirements for Payroll Protection. Although she has inquired several times, she has not heard back from them. March 24th is the deadline.
    • Kristen - A motion was made and seconded that the monies in the Good Samaritan Fund be moved to Pastor’s Discretionary Fund to streamline items (since both line items serve the same purpose).
  2. Secretary Report
    • See attached report.
  3. Pastor’s Report
    • See attached report.
    • Internet coverage needs to be better by improving upload speeds. To do this, costs an additional $100 a month. Initially plan was to go with Comcast but cost vs. goods was not accurately represented. The church will remain with Firstlight as the provider.
  4. Ministry Team Reports
    • Serve the Lord - Paul
      • See attached report
      • Donna Huot is stepping down from heading up the Prayer Tree email chain. Cheryl will be searching for a member who is interested in heading this up.
      • Jessica is recommending continuing to financially support low income /minority peoples to obtain interest free loans. Linda mentioned that a while back, Ed Mallon had someone from the interest free loan company come in for an Adult Forum to educate the church members regarding this great program. Perhaps this could be done again.
    • Grow in Faith- Julie
      • See attached report
      • 25 Easter lilies were ordered.
    • Come Together - Linda
      • No report
      • Linda is exploring ideas for safe ways to gather together.

We Seek God’s Direction for our Church

  1. Initial discussion about reviewing Church’s Constitution and bylaws
    • Plan: Tim will check with the Synod to see if there is a process by which other churches have completed a review and update, so we do not reinvent the wheel. This will be done before putting together a committee to undertake this process. Also ELCA has a new updated form to use as a resource.
  2. Audit Committee Discussion - review 2020
    • Plan: Pastor will reach out to 2-3 people with this skill set to see if they are interested and available to complete an audit. An audit was not completed in 2019.
  3. Church member request: Holy Trinity sign on to a Covenant to Care for Creation.
    • Plan: To respond in the affirmative and encourage church members to pursue this at a level that works for them. Council supports working towards becoming more green and aware of how we use our earth’s resources.
  4. Returning to in-person services data analysis and discussion.
    • Pastor Tim - Since in person services have started, attendance is sparser than last October (where 30-35 people were in attendance). Pastor is not concerned about this and plans to continue as is. Attendees wear masks and do not sing. Singing with masks will be allowed in the outdoor services.

Sources of local data below for review prior to meeting: Here is the most recent information for Strafford County https://covidactnow.org/us/new_hampshire-nh/county/strafford_county/?s=1550490

Here is the most recent information for Rockingham County https://covidactnow.org/us/new_hampshire-nh/county/rockingham_county/?s=1550490

Here is the most recent information for the state of New Hampshire https://covidactnow.org/us/new_hampshire-nh/?s=1550490

  1. Snippets/Strands from discussion focused on the first chapter of How To Lead When You Don’t Know Where You’re Going by Susan Beaumont.
    • Pastor Tim: No action plan needed, just breathe through this and increase one's awareness of everything that is going on.
    • Paul: No matter what we will make people uncomfortable..if change or no change.
    • Metaphor: “We need to drive a bus in a direction - some people will get off at certain stops”
    • Ultimate goal is to “be” the church and not to grow the church. We “are “ the church when we live transformed lives. Our goal is not to sustain an institution.
    • Julie: Resonated with “a place for liturgy”.
    • Erlinde: Resonated with “God is in relationship with space and time and nature” vs. a 3 tiered system of understanding the Universe.
    • Cristina: Helpful to know and understand what do people crave?
    • Judy: Church is slowly lagging behind, trying to catch up.
    • Paul: Church is permission giving. Challenging job for Pastor during this liminal process!
    • Pastor: We are providing comfort during Covid.
    • Linda: Spoke of the important role of Communitas and where she has experienced this.

We Look to the Future

  • Upcoming calendar review (next month)
    • Council Meetings: April 8, 2021
    • Easter (April 4th)
  • Read Chapter 2 in How To Lead and be prepared to discuss.

Closing Prayer