January 2006
Dear All Saints’ Family,
Happy New Year! For many it is
a time of reflection on the past as well as a time of anticipation for
what is to come. 2005 was a challenging year for us. Overall attendance
fell somewhat but participation in programs and ministries rose
significantly. Giving increased; unfortunately so did operating expenses
such as utilities and repairs. The ministry leaders and vestry did a
tremendous job controlling expenditures notably lowering our projected
budget deficit. A sincere thank you to all. We will be sharing details
of the events of the past year at the annual meeting on January 15,
2006.
The annual meeting of the
parish is a very special and important time in our life together. It is
the only time of the year when we gather the entire congregation
together to report, celebrate, and discuss the state of the church. It
is the time when we celebrate the entire ministry God does among and
through us. I am repeatedly overwhelmed at the number and quality of
activities reminding us how blessed we are to have such a remarkable
group of people devoted to the work of God.
This year we will gather with
our traditional potluck luncheon, share ministry reports, and elect
three new members to serve on the vestry. Bernice Culver, Susan Ryder,
and David Waite rotate off of vestry after serving their three year
terms. I wish to thank them for their dedication and wisdom. At the
annual meeting we will share the 2006 budget passed by the vestry and
answer any questions pertaining to finance. We will also share the
outcome of the Evergreen Program which has resulted in a marked increase
in giving.
After a brief report from the
Rector, the remainder of our time will be spent in an open forum
focusing on the tension within the Anglican Communion and issues facing
the Episcopal Church as we respond to the recommendations of the Windsor
Report. I invite you to make every effort to come to the annual meeting,
and participate in this discussion so that we can be well informed on
the issues that we will face in the months ahead.
Finally, the by-laws of the
parish will be posted on the bulletin board in Groff Hall detailing the
qualifications for status as a voting member. If there are any questions
please see our Senior Warden Clay Lawson or me. May God continue to
bless you in the New Year.
Fr. David+
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