Colonial Heights Presbyterian ChurchColonial Heights Presbyterian ChurchColonial Heights Presbyterian ChurchColonial Heights Presbyterian Church Annual Report 2019Annual Report 2019Annual Report 2019Annual Report 2019

Creatively Practicing Our Confidence in GodCreatively Practicing Our Confidence in GodCreatively Practicing Our Confidence in GodCreatively Practicing Our Confidence in God

and Caring in Communityand Caring in Communityand Caring in Communityand Caring in Community

2828 SE Stephens Street Portland, Oregon 972142828 SE Stephens Street Portland, Oregon 972142828 SE Stephens Street Portland, Oregon 972142828 SE Stephens Street Portland, Oregon 97214 (503) 236(503) 236(503) 236(503) 236----2430243024302430 officeofficeofficeoffice@@@@chpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.org chpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.orgchpcpdx.org

DDDDOCKET FOR ANNUAL MEETING OCKET FOR ANNUAL MEETING OCKET FOR ANNUAL MEETING OCKET FOR ANNUAL MEETING OF OF OF OF THE CONGREGATIONTHE CONGREGATIONTHE CONGREGATIONTHE CONGREGATION

January 26, 2020

(Alternate date in event of inclement weather, illness, etc.: February 2, 2020)

Our Annual Meeting will include, in addition to reviewing these reports:

• Opening Prayer, Quorum & Opening Time:___________.

• Notice of approval of the minutes of the October and December congregational meeting at the regular session meeting December 4, 2019; they are available for review today.

• Notice of Congregational Meeting on October 18, 2020, following worship for the election of elders and deacons for terms beginning in 2021.

• Notice of Annual Meeting of the Congregation and Corporation on January 24, 2021; the alternate date is January 31, 2021, if needed for inclement weather or other reason.

• Thanks and recognition.

• Election of Nominating Committee (must be one ruling elder currently on the session & two at large members). The Session member willing to serve is Patti Fish. 2020 ______________, ________________, _______________ No one is permitted to serve more than three years consecutively. Those who have served in previous years (the session member/chair): 2019: Debra Pulse, Kate Belt, Sue Clendaniel

2018: Sue Clendaniel, Emma Maley, Patti Fish 2017:Emma Maley, Anita Seely and Emily Hebbron 2016: Debra Pulse, Sue Clendaniel, Patti Fish

• Setting the 2020 Terms of Call for Rev. Linda Stewart-Kalen.

The Meeting of the Corporation – election of officers

Patti Fish has agreed to continue to serve as president if you wish this, and Emily Hebbron as clerk is willing to serve as your secretary. Nominations from the floor of others who agree to stand for election and serve.

• Concluding prayer and closing time: We begin and end our meeting with prayer. If you might like to offer one of those prayers, please let Pastor Linda know. Please notify Pastor Linda Stewart-Kalen or Emily Hebbron, Clerk of Session, if there is any other business you wish to bring before our congregation for this meeting.

TABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTS Pastor’s Greeting–Rev. Linda Stewart-Kalen, Pastor Clerk of Session Report–Emily Hebbron

Building Communities for the Common Good

Deacons’ Fund–from the bookkeeping, Sue Wallace Faith Community Health Ministry Letter of Welcome–PUN & Tim Winslea Hospitality Report–Patti Fish Mission and Outreach Report–from our Session records & newsletters Building Use Supports Many Ministries Matthew 25 Peace and Reconciliation MCC Partnership & Mission Increasing Our Stewardship of the Environment Mission Partnership Giving-Five for Five Congregation Presbytery Participation Report–Patti Fish & Linda Stewart-Kalen

To Worship & Know God

Worship & Music Report–Linda Stewart-Kalen Christian Education & Formation Report–Linda Stewart-Kalen Reading & Reflection Book Group-Kate Belt

Caring for the People & Resources Entrusted to Us

Church Office & Administration Report–Patti Fish & Sue Clendaniel Building & Grounds Report–from our records Stewardship & Finance Report–Sue Wallace & Linda Stewart-Kalen Proposed Terms of Call–Session Stewardship Projections for 2020 & 2019 Financial Report available on request

PASTOR’S GREETINGPASTOR’S GREETINGPASTOR’S GREETINGPASTOR’S GREETING

In a sermon just recently, I shared how scripture grounds us in principles from which our practices and In a sermon just recently, I shared how scripture grounds us in principles from which our practices and In a sermon just recently, I shared how scripture grounds us in principles from which our practices and In a sermon just recently, I shared how scripture grounds us in principles from which our practices and our patterns flow in the changing landscape of being a congregation now entering the 2020s. our patterns flow in the changing landscape of being a congregation now entering the 2020s. our patterns flow in the changing landscape of being a congregation now entering the 2020s. our patterns flow in the changing landscape of being a congregation now entering the 2020s.

In our denomination’s constitution, many of the In our denomination’s constitution, many of the In our denomination’s constitution, many of the In our denomination’s constitution, many of the principles are laid out and have stood the test of time principles are laid out and have stood the test of time principles are laid out and have stood the test of time principles are laid out and have stood the test of time since our founding in the 1700s. These are based both on scripture and the essence of what the since our founding in the 1700s. These are based both on scripture and the essence of what the since our founding in the 1700s. These are based both on scripture and the essence of what the since our founding in the 1700s. These are based both on scripture and the essence of what the “reformed tradition” is, essential tenets if you will. These principles are shared in our Book of “reformed tradition” is, essential tenets if you will. These principles are shared in our Book of “reformed tradition” is, essential tenets if you will. These principles are shared in our Book of “reformed tradition” is, essential tenets if you will. These principles are shared in our Book of ConfeConfeConfeConfessions (understandings of faithfulness for particular historic times and circumstances) and the ssions (understandings of faithfulness for particular historic times and circumstances) and the ssions (understandings of faithfulness for particular historic times and circumstances) and the ssions (understandings of faithfulness for particular historic times and circumstances) and the Book of Order (our quirky way of being a community together). I wish to lift up two particularly Book of Order (our quirky way of being a community together). I wish to lift up two particularly Book of Order (our quirky way of being a community together). I wish to lift up two particularly Book of Order (our quirky way of being a community together). I wish to lift up two particularly needed now and through our election year. Among these foundatneeded now and through our election year. Among these foundatneeded now and through our election year. Among these foundatneeded now and through our election year. Among these foundations we find:ions we find:ions we find:ions we find:

“God alone is Lord of the conscience, and hath left it free from the doctrines and commandments of people which are in anything contrary to God’s Word, or beside it, in matters of faith or worship. Therefore we consider the rights of private judgment, in all matters that respect religion, as universal and unalienable: We do not even wish to see any religious constitution aided by the civil power, further than may be necessary for protection and security, and at the same time, be equal and common to all other. F-3.0101

This kind of principle allows for a gathering of people with many different convictions. It recognizes This kind of principle allows for a gathering of people with many different convictions. It recognizes This kind of principle allows for a gathering of people with many different convictions. It recognizes This kind of principle allows for a gathering of people with many different convictions. It recognizes the strength of the community that cherishes diversity of voice and identity. It is where our the strength of the community that cherishes diversity of voice and identity. It is where our the strength of the community that cherishes diversity of voice and identity. It is where our the strength of the community that cherishes diversity of voice and identity. It is where our congregation see our calling congregation see our calling congregation see our calling congregation see our calling to honor diversity and support vulnerable people. Another foundation:to honor diversity and support vulnerable people. Another foundation:to honor diversity and support vulnerable people. Another foundation:to honor diversity and support vulnerable people. Another foundation:

Truth is in order to goodness; and the great touchstone of truth, its tendency to promote holiness, according to our Savior’s rule, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” And that no opinion can either be more pernicious or more absurd than that which brings truth and falsehood upon a level, and represents it as of no consequence what a person’s opinions are. On the contrary, we are persuaded that there is an inseparable connection between faith and practice, truth and duty. Otherwise it would be of no consequence either to discover truth or to embrace it. F-3.0104

Our commitment to finding truth and living it in the patterns of our community and the practices of Our commitment to finding truth and living it in the patterns of our community and the practices of Our commitment to finding truth and living it in the patterns of our community and the practices of Our commitment to finding truth and living it in the patterns of our community and the practices of our lives flows readily four lives flows readily four lives flows readily four lives flows readily from this belief. Our commitment to lifelong learning is a much needed calling rom this belief. Our commitment to lifelong learning is a much needed calling rom this belief. Our commitment to lifelong learning is a much needed calling rom this belief. Our commitment to lifelong learning is a much needed calling for our day and age. Maybe you would find this a good year to look through the other foundations for our day and age. Maybe you would find this a good year to look through the other foundations for our day and age. Maybe you would find this a good year to look through the other foundations for our day and age. Maybe you would find this a good year to look through the other foundations in our church constitution and ponder how these guide action into our life togein our church constitution and ponder how these guide action into our life togein our church constitution and ponder how these guide action into our life togein our church constitution and ponder how these guide action into our life together. I lift these up ther. I lift these up ther. I lift these up ther. I lift these up because it seems that this has been a year of putting our principles into new patterns of being a because it seems that this has been a year of putting our principles into new patterns of being a because it seems that this has been a year of putting our principles into new patterns of being a because it seems that this has been a year of putting our principles into new patterns of being a congregation and into new practices that call to us in our current circumstances. I suspect the year congregation and into new practices that call to us in our current circumstances. I suspect the year congregation and into new practices that call to us in our current circumstances. I suspect the year congregation and into new practices that call to us in our current circumstances. I suspect the year ahead will continue to require usahead will continue to require usahead will continue to require usahead will continue to require us to examine our convictions and set into action new paths for this to examine our convictions and set into action new paths for this to examine our convictions and set into action new paths for this to examine our convictions and set into action new paths for this new decade. Our national struggles groan with the weight our country’s loss of the ability to hear new decade. Our national struggles groan with the weight our country’s loss of the ability to hear new decade. Our national struggles groan with the weight our country’s loss of the ability to hear new decade. Our national struggles groan with the weight our country’s loss of the ability to hear diverse voices and honor the dignity of all people in our discernment of a shared future.diverse voices and honor the dignity of all people in our discernment of a shared future.diverse voices and honor the dignity of all people in our discernment of a shared future.diverse voices and honor the dignity of all people in our discernment of a shared future. Similarly, Similarly, Similarly, Similarly, the goodness that flows from recognizing and living the truth seems to be spare, even threadbare in the goodness that flows from recognizing and living the truth seems to be spare, even threadbare in the goodness that flows from recognizing and living the truth seems to be spare, even threadbare in the goodness that flows from recognizing and living the truth seems to be spare, even threadbare in our common fabric. I pray that our congregation will continue our pattern and practice of actions of our common fabric. I pray that our congregation will continue our pattern and practice of actions of our common fabric. I pray that our congregation will continue our pattern and practice of actions of our common fabric. I pray that our congregation will continue our pattern and practice of actions of love and mercylove and mercylove and mercylove and mercy--------actions that can set a wiactions that can set a wiactions that can set a wiactions that can set a winsome and beautiful model of our faith before our nsome and beautiful model of our faith before our nsome and beautiful model of our faith before our nsome and beautiful model of our faith before our neighbors, inspiring more hope filled and honest expressions of our common ground.neighbors, inspiring more hope filled and honest expressions of our common ground.neighbors, inspiring more hope filled and honest expressions of our common ground.neighbors, inspiring more hope filled and honest expressions of our common ground.

As you look through these reports, I encourage you to see how we are engaged in a witness that all As you look through these reports, I encourage you to see how we are engaged in a witness that all As you look through these reports, I encourage you to see how we are engaged in a witness that all As you look through these reports, I encourage you to see how we are engaged in a witness that all people may see the joy,people may see the joy,people may see the joy,people may see the joy, love, and challenge of our lives lived within the Body of Christ. We pray love, and challenge of our lives lived within the Body of Christ. We pray love, and challenge of our lives lived within the Body of Christ. We pray love, and challenge of our lives lived within the Body of Christ. We pray that in truth and goodness our neighbors might be loved into the new humanity that is God’s shalom. that in truth and goodness our neighbors might be loved into the new humanity that is God’s shalom. that in truth and goodness our neighbors might be loved into the new humanity that is God’s shalom. that in truth and goodness our neighbors might be loved into the new humanity that is God’s shalom. CCCChhhhrrrriiiisssstttt ppppeeeeaaaacccceeee aaaannnndddd bbbblllleeeessssssssiiiinnnngggg,,,, RRRReeeevvvv.... LLLLiiiinnnnddddaaaa SSSStttteeeewwwwaaaarrrrtttt----KKKKaaaalllleeeennnn

CLERK OF CLERK OF CLERK OF CLERK OF SESSION REPORTSESSION REPORTSESSION REPORTSESSION REPORT

Session Meetings: Stated meetings were held January 23, 2019; April 3, 2019; June 5, 2019; September 11, 2019; and December 5, 2019. Special called meetings were: September 4, 2019 for the endorsement of Kate Belt as GA commissioner nominee at the Presbytery of the Cascades, December 15 for final Synod transfer of Grant funds.

Session met jointly with the board of MCC on September 11, 2019.

Congregational meetings: We met Sunday, January 27, 2019, for our required annual meeting of the congregation and corporation, October 19 for a report from the Nominating Committee, and December 1 to elect ruling elders and Deacons.

Election of Officers Session: Emily Hebbron for the Class of 2021& Kate Belt for the Class of 2022 Deacons: Cary Carty for the Class of 2022 Many of you assist with the work of both boards and we are grateful. Both the Session and Deacons depend on our whole community (members, friends, & even our guests) to be active in participation and discernment for the life of the congregation.

Membership Active members as of January 1, 2019 18 Received in membership by letter of transfer John Larsen Total gains 1 Losses: Deaths of members: 1 (Alura Cain March 29, 1932 to September 29, 2019 service October 26, 2019) Transfer: 0 Removal from rolls 0 Total losses -1 Active Members as of January 1, 2020 18

In 2019, our community also experienced the loss of dear friends who encouraged and supported our efforts over many years: Patty Brown, Lee Barnhart, Joanne Nave (we hosted her service on July 12, 2019), and Bob Bates. Though not active members, their deaths are noted in recognition of our celebration of the Communion of Saints.

Sacraments We celebrated Communion on the 1st Sunday of each month, Easter Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, all Lenten and Advent Sundays; and also during special services on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Christmas Eve, and the first Sunday of Christmas. Pastor Linda was able to include Alura’s family in a bedside service of communion just days before her death. Leland, Alura, and their family and friends joined in singing and prayers in this special service. The Session authorized that on the days we serve communion in worship, any of the elders and deacons can bring communion to those who participate from home as requested. Baptism: None, though each week as we pour water in the font, we remember our baptisms with gladness! The Session Meetings for 2020 will likely continue on Monday or Wednesday evenings at 5:30 pm. Session met on January 13. The next meeting is scheduled for March 4. Remaining meetings will be scheduled for April, June, September, and November. We hope to meet jointly with the MCC Board at an appropriate time this year.

THE DEACONS’ FUNDTHE DEACONS’ FUNDTHE DEACONS’ FUNDTHE DEACONS’ FUND

This year the Board of Deacons Fund was administered through the US Bank general fund checking account. Two Deacons, or the Moderator & Pastor, approve expenses and reimbursements for the Board of Deacons. Deacon Anita Seely was added to the check signers for the general fund account to ensure access for the work of the Deacons. Income/Received: $1217 + January 1 balance of $232.00= $1449.00 total for 2019 Expenses: - $1398.77 for 2019

• Communion Supplies $123.21

• Care of Congregation $110.00

• Care of Neighbors in Need $148.00

• Hospitality and recognition $1017.56 (two Funeral receptions)

• Leadership development/Resources $0 End of year balance: $50.23

HEALTH MINISTRY LETTHEALTH MINISTRY LETTHEALTH MINISTRY LETTHEALTH MINISTRY LETTER OF ER OF ER OF ER OF THANKS & THANKS & THANKS & THANKS & WELCOMEWELCOMEWELCOMEWELCOME

In September, we celebrated a farewell to Judy Hubbard, our PUN Nurse since 2007. From

August to October, PUN began the work of envisioning what comes after Judy in our shared

ministry of health and wholeness.

We offer a huge “Thank you!” to Lake Grove for their 2019 Support of our health ministry!

PUN wrote a grant for continuing funding of this work, and in updating the grant request for

2020, they shared: We are writing on behalf of the PUN congregations to give thanks for your ministry with and through us through the Faith Community Nurse and the ministries of healing and wholeness in this Presbyterian Urban Network. When we shared our grant request with you this fall, we were in transition both with changes of pastoral leadership for some of the congregations in PUN and in the next steps in our health and wellness ministry leadership with the retirement of Judy Hubbard. We hope this letter brings you up to date and invites you as guests to celebrate and give thanks for our ministry. We have much to give thanks for in this partnership! God is faithful and the Holy Spirit guides us in these times as we trust in God’s calling for 2020. We are pleased to announce that Rev. Tim Winslea, RN was extended the offer to become our Faith Community Health nurse in 2020 and he has accepted this offer. The Spirit guided us to Rev. Winslea through his strong witness in the work of mental health advocacy, bible study for proclamation, and in his roles cultivating a new generation of health care leaders teaching in a number of nursing programs in the Metro area. We believe he brings a number of skills to help strengthen our Christian witness and expand the support for this ministry. From the beginning of this PUN health effort, the two-fold work of this shared ministry was to strengthen our faith communities for service, and to reach out in love to our neighbors with the Good News of God’s healing power. We rejoice that the example set in scripture in Jesus’ healing ministry serves to lead us in this ministry of compassion. We want our neighbors to experience the healing in body, mind and spirit that is promised in the abundant life to which Christ calls us.

An Invitation to you! To celebrate this new relationship we have set February 2, 2020 (yes! That’s 02022020) for a PUN Faith & Fun gathering from 1:30-3:00 pm. We welcome representatives of all PUN churches to be with us as we give thanks, honor our partnership, and commission Tim Winslea to his ministry with us. We have invited Rev. David Dornack in his new role as NE Region Vice Moderator, Rev. Clark Scalera, our Presbytery Advocate for Congregations and Leadership, and Rev. Winslea to share in this time of blessing.

BUILDING COMMUNITY WBUILDING COMMUNITY WBUILDING COMMUNITY WBUILDING COMMUNITY WITHIN THE CONGREGATIITHIN THE CONGREGATIITHIN THE CONGREGATIITHIN THE CONGREGATIONONONON’S ’S ’S ’S HOSPITALITY HOSPITALITY HOSPITALITY HOSPITALITY

Refreshments, Social GatheringsRefreshments, Social GatheringsRefreshments, Social GatheringsRefreshments, Social Gatherings

First of all I wish to thank Ann Fortescue, Sue Clendaniel, Leland and Alura Cain and Anita Seely for their monthly contribution to the Sunday morning refreshments.

I also wish to thank Denise and Corinne Hare, Debra Pulse, and Emma Maley.

We have discovered that with sharing the space on Sundays with MCC, we need to be sure to have our refreshment cart in the Narthex between 10:00 – 10:30 am, so we are not using the elevator when the MCC members are arriving or having their fellowship time.

We held four Pot Lucks: Our Annual Meeting in January, one in July, after our congregational Meeting in October, and our Annual Christmas/Advent pot luck, which was joint with the MCC congregation.

We held four Lunch Out! gatherings after worship: February at the H& K café, June at Mc Grath’s Fish House, August at the Black Bear Diner, and November at Heidi’s of Gresham. We plan to continue in 2020 and are open for suggestions of places to go. Please keep in mind we select places with parking and accessible entrances for those with disabilities. I also wish to thank all who helped with our Front Porch Party in August. From all reports it was a huge success and we had many helping hands from Common Ground and the MCC congregations.

We get all of our coffee from Happy Cup ($123.95 for 2019). This means every cup supports vocational and art programs for individuals with disabilities. If you see that we are running low on coffee when you make refreshments, please let Patti know.

Respectfully Submitted, Patti Fish

BLESSED BY OUR DEACOBLESSED BY OUR DEACOBLESSED BY OUR DEACOBLESSED BY OUR DEACONSNSNSNS

We thank our Deacons:We thank our Deacons:We thank our Deacons:We thank our Deacons:

Cary Carty, Emma Maley, Debra Pulse Cary Carty, Emma Maley, Debra Pulse Cary Carty, Emma Maley, Debra Pulse Cary Carty, Emma Maley, Debra Pulse and and and and

Anita Seely Anita Seely Anita Seely Anita Seely for their caring concern and for their caring concern and for their caring concern and for their caring concern and

leadership leadership leadership leadership through the yearthrough the yearthrough the yearthrough the year!!!!

MISSION AND OUTREACHMISSION AND OUTREACHMISSION AND OUTREACHMISSION AND OUTREACH REPORTREPORTREPORTREPORTSSSS

Building Use Supports Many MinistriesBuilding Use Supports Many MinistriesBuilding Use Supports Many MinistriesBuilding Use Supports Many Ministries

This year we invited our discipleship to reflect This year we invited our discipleship to reflect This year we invited our discipleship to reflect This year we invited our discipleship to reflect

a pa pa pa posture of osture of osture of osture of radiradiradiradiccccal hospitality in mission.al hospitality in mission.al hospitality in mission.al hospitality in mission.

We became a We became a We became a We became a Matthew 25Matthew 25Matthew 25Matthew 25 Congregation as we accepted Congregation as we accepted Congregation as we accepted Congregation as we accepted

the invitationthe invitationthe invitationthe invitation of ourof ourof ourof our PC(USA) leadershipPC(USA) leadershipPC(USA) leadershipPC(USA) leadership in 2019in 2019in 2019in 2019

Building congregational vitality The Session used the 7 marks of Vital Congregations to shape conversations at the opening

of their meetings throughout the year. Pastor Linda incorporated some of this material in her preaching throughout the year as well. Pastor Linda consulted with MCC’s consultants on Church Vitality.

Dismantling structural racism Common Ground co-sponsored with Hawthorne Family Playschool an Anti Bias Workshop

“Moving from Colorblind to Race Conscious Parenting and Teaching.”

A Land Acknowledgement Statement was adopted and used throughout the fall. This was one way to invite those using the building and grounds to recognize the past and present realties for our native neighbors and enter a posture of land use that begins to repair the invisibility of both our history and our current relationships with native people.

We shared the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address in our November newsletter, highlighting the wisdom and leadership of native traditions. Our congregation is learning postures of gratitude that may help us to weather our current climate of privilege and divisiveness.

Eradicating poverty We welcomed additional 12 Step Groups (DA, OA, ACA, MA) that work on the barriers that

addictive behavior brings to participating in a healthy and full life. We continued our work as a Community Service Alternative Site for Multnomah County. Fuller Bike Adventure hosted the launch and welcomed the return of the Biking to Build

efforts to raise funds for affordable housing. Our fellowship refreshments continue to serve Happy Cup giving support to those with disabilities.

Peacemaking & ReconcPeacemaking & ReconcPeacemaking & ReconcPeacemaking & Reconciliationiliationiliationiliation

We requested and received a grant from our presbytery. In 2020, through a series of six or more listening sessions, site visits, and conversations our Common Ground community will explore native and immigrant voices and experiences. Our goal is to find meaningful ways to be a part of healing efforts for immigrants and native people through art and deepening understanding. Art installations on our grounds will help us to complete an outdoor meditation walk that honors diverse voices. These will be a lasting witness and available to our surrounding neighbors on an ongoing basis. We seek to be better prepared as peacemakers through understanding the history of native and immigrant peoples and Christian communities. The series will include the following:

• Preparation for listening

• Listening to our native and immigrant neighbors

• Conversations for meaningful confession, repentance and reconciliation

• Expressions of celebration, recognition, and shared commitment to peacemaking,

• Art commissions on hospitality & welcome, peace, justice, earth care, and forgiveness Developing new and lasting partnerships and networks for mission and ministry.

Annual Summary MCC Partnership & Mission Projects for 2019Annual Summary MCC Partnership & Mission Projects for 2019Annual Summary MCC Partnership & Mission Projects for 2019Annual Summary MCC Partnership & Mission Projects for 2019 Can “Mustard Seed” congregations thrive through sharing ministry on common ground? Phase one of this project will seek a partnership with an historic LBGTQ? community and an interfaith partnership with another faith community in hopes of supporting their next steps in following their calling and our calling. Our community hopes to realize a shared witness and a more stable pattern to strengthen our effort as faith communities. Our desire is to strengthen each community for greater service through sharing common ground.

January Completed lease and partnership plan, submitted to PoC Trustees, received a transition payment. Pastor conferences developing transition plans Prepared Pastor Study for sharing- all joint space

February (gender pronouns-nametags, non-binary intro) Trustees approved our plans with MCC Transition plans completed Greetings from our congregation for use in their last worship on Broadway

March (March 3 first MCC use of chapel for worship) We hosted MCC for Ash Wednesday service and dinner MIR Concert featuring Nathan Meckley *Linda met with MCC building use partners for possible transition to CG. 8-12 meetings January to April

April (MCC closed sale of building) We received a New Member from MCC We hosted MCC for Maundy Thursday service and dinner We attended MCC’s Good Friday Service- The Way of the Cross Easter We attended MCC’s sunrise service We shared a jointly planned Easter service, Linda preaching, MCC style of blessing with communion

May (Began weekly pastor coordination meetings) Bike Blessing for the Sunday Parkways, Hosting the Fuller Bike Adventure, Community & Civic Life- Safety meeting & tour with MCC rep, CG rep & City of Portland

June (PRIDE support/prayers) Safe Space in a Violent World- Joint meeting with Homeland Security et. al., re faith community safety- MCC & CG reps

July Conversations of Care- three play dates and tours for parents of young children to listen for their needs as we prepared to hire a caregiver for children (not a previous practice of MCC). Child Safety Policy shared. Partner congregation hosting worship in pastor’s absence (CG-2, MCC-1)

August Front Porch Party- Neighborhood Salmon BBQ dinner for PUN, MCC & our neighbors Jointly hired Joy Rothi for children’s ministry

September Joint meeting with our two governing bodies Became a Matthew 25 congregation—focus on sharing the story Began using a Land Acknowledgement statement (EMSWCD classes, Concerts) Peacemaking Grant written & awarded Indigenous & Immigrant Voices and Experiences- shared space Consulting with MCC’s transformation consultants

October Blessing of the Animals (a traditional practice of MCC, new for our congregation) held on site. Joint purchase of a bike rack (soon will be installed by MCC folks)

November Hosting anti-bias training (HFP) Pastor Linda met with Aric Clark to review the project Received help with refrigerator replacement (stoves will be replaced soon with their help too) MCC Thanksgiving Dinner Transgender Remembrance Day- prayers

December Session met with Aric Clark (NMT) and Sid Birt (COM) Resonate Choral Arts- Preview of new musical- $103 for PIRC Warming Tree project Joint music proclamation service prepared Joint worship planned for Christmas Eve 7:00 pm Lessons and Carols 11:00 pm * ACA, MA, Confluence are the only new building use 2019/2020 related to MCC partnership.

Planned or emerging but not yet executed: Education & Worship 1st Aid CPR classes will be organized by PUN (for Parents, Children’s Ministry volunteers & Joy) Class on Alzheimer’s & Dementia (postponed due to the instructor’s accident) Possible joint evening service (Like our evensong experiment?)

OUR CONGREGATION’S SCHEDULED USE OF THE BUILDING IN 2019: Common Ground Presbyterian Church Worship followed by refreshments-Sanctuary 3rd Tuesdays- Reading & Reflection Book Group-Narthex or Friendship Rm Session Meetings- 4 to 6 times a year December 4 or 11 at 5:30 pm-Friendship Rm Our PUN Health Ministry--Tai Chi for Better Balance-Chapel Multnomah County Adult Diversion- Alternative Community Service Choir Practice-Sanctuary 2nd & 4th week Faith Community Health Clinic (January-September) Lenten Prayer Time- Sanctuary Our Musician in Residence Participants for 2019

• Megan Cronin-Fundraising Concert, adult & children’s’ Violin & Viola lessons, ensemble lessons, and recitals-Friendship Rm & Sanctuary

• Logan Thane Brown Fundraising Concert, Rose City Brass Quintet and new this year--Brassroots Movement-Sanctuary or Chapel

• Gregor McKee practice-Sanctuary, featured in our March concert, accompanist

• Felix Lilly piano storage for the first half of the year and practice-Sanctuary

Common Ground Outreach Activities in 2019 Equinox Concert Sunday Parkway Bike Blessing Front Porch Party Blessing of the Animals

Life Here on Common Ground Life Here on Common Ground Life Here on Common Ground Life Here on Common Ground

Common Ground is an effort of this Presbyterian Common Ground is an effort of this Presbyterian Common Ground is an effort of this Presbyterian Common Ground is an effort of this Presbyterian

Church USA CongregatChurch USA CongregatChurch USA CongregatChurch USA Congregation in the Colonial Heights ion in the Colonial Heights ion in the Colonial Heights ion in the Colonial Heights

NeighborhoodNeighborhoodNeighborhoodNeighborhood We believe that we hold this space in trust for what God is doing in our neighborhood and greater Portland Metro area. Our goal of honoring diversity and supporting vulnerable communities is central to this project. To welcome people of faith within the Christian community is a witness for which we have a heart. Acting on the welcome we sense God is calling us to see how interfaith and ecumenical partnerships can strengthen the work of our congregation to show the spacious welcome of God. Nearly 500 people a week and 1,285 individuals over the course of the year utilized this building for support and services of some kind. Total donated space and support (building use & staff support needed) $50,157

• Presbytery Use For 1001 New Ministries $300 Community of Pilgrims alternative site (not related to our efforts with MCC)

• Honor Diversity & Support Vulnerable Communities $11, 240 Alternative Community Service (1,200 hours made available), PVAP, DA, OA, ACA & MA

• Increase Stewardship of the Environment/Care of Creation $523 EMSWCD, Audubon

• Promote Music & the Arts $15,600 MIR program, other recitals & rehearsals

• Strengthen Families & Children $20,290 HFP, music lessons, art lessons

• Support Education (Lifelong learning) & Nurture Across Generations $2,200 Girl Scouts, Homeschool Co-op, Watercolor classes, Primetimers

DAILY/WEEKLY

Hawthorne Family Playschool (HFP) M-F 8:30 am-12:30 pm-Children’s Classrooms outdoor classroom and Playground Yoga (Tuesdays & Wednesday for HFP families only) Chapel MCC Worship-Chapel MCC Study Group-Social Hall PDXVox voice lessons-Chapel Debtors Anonymous-Social Hall Portland Veterans’ Acupuncture Project-Chapel Marijuana Anonymous-Friendship Rm & Social Hall Overeaters Anonymous-Social Hall Generations New ACoC-Friendship Rm Ain’t Misbehaving Dog Nose Training-all unused building & the grounds Ecumenical Lectionary Study Group-Chapel Homeschool Co-op Art & Geography group class-(January-June) Friendship Rm MONTHLY

Twice monthly- Sharla Sevy’s Adult Watercolor Classes (January-June)-Social Hall 2nd Wednesdays MCC Board Meeting-Social Hall 4th Sundays Primetimers-Social Hall 3rd Thursdays Diabetes Support Group-Friendship Rm OCCASIONALLY/ANNUALLY

Presbytery support for Company of Pilgrims worship & service projects-Social Hall, Kitchen, Narthex January 5- Audubon Christmas Bird Count-Social Hall February 9 North Portland Reevaluation Co-Counseling Training-Chapel

April 28 & December 10-Paloma Griffin-Hebert’s students’ violin recital-Sanctuary September-November- MCC Church Consultant (Vital Congregations work)-Social Hall, Friendship Room September & November, EMSWCD free classes Native Plants, Beneficial Insects, Naturescaping-Social Hall October 30-City Civic Life Bureau- Neighbors Together meeting-Social Hall November 10 Joel Klinebaum & Rey Abolofia students’ Clarinet and Bassoon recital-Sanctuary November 28 Thanksgiving Day Meal-70 folks served by MCC family!-Social Hall & Kitchen November 29-30, December 1 AIDS Quilt Display-Chapel HFP sponsored Anti Bias Workshop (Common Ground Co-Sponsored)-Chapel December 2 Resonate Choral Arts performs Tear Down This Wall! preview for original choral work December 10 Girl Scout Troop Simple Meal Badge-Kitchen & Social Hall December 14 Confluence LGBTQ Chorus Concert Winter Lights launch of 20th anniversary season-whole building Art Is Fundamental with Serene Green-three summer sessions M-F Afternoons- Children’s Classrooms LAST (Learning & Serving Together) Teens on two summer Mission trips, Sanctuary, Social Hall & Kitchen July 27 Tai Chi Intensive Saturday-Chapel Lewis & Clark College Beyond Portlandia-Young Adults exploring Economic Justice & Environmental Justice work in their new college home town, August Sanctuary, Social Hall & Kitchen Week of August 22-27

Three statements have guided our community in recent years. These set a pattern for our practice of radical hospitality. From scripture: Micah 6:8 God has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? From our vision statement: Creatively Practicing Our Confidence in God & Caring in Community

And from a long-time cherished charge to the congregation: Nourished at the Table, we are sent to be God's People in this place. We seek ways for the light of Christ to be visible within and beyond our church walls. May our door be narrow enough to keep out hate and prejudice, but wide enough to welcome all in God's love.

Increasing our Stewardship of the EnvironmentIncreasing our Stewardship of the EnvironmentIncreasing our Stewardship of the EnvironmentIncreasing our Stewardship of the Environment Nearly every worship service has elements of our earth care stewardship, and we were able to worship outdoors again this year. Below are some of the things accomplished in 2019.

Our Earth Care bulletin board shares information with our members and building partners as does nearly every newsletter. We invite folks to participate in events being held in the surrounding community by other organizations.

We hosted for another year the SE area coordination of the Audubon Christmas Bird Count. The group is increasing enough that we might need to move to the sanctuary to accommodate a larger gathering. Dan Strong, the coordinator, gave us a new bird box to house nesting birds.

Work with our new building partners- Our agreements and orientations include an invitation to join in increasing our stewardship of the environment, i.e., reusable vs. disposable, Land Acknowledgement, etc. Our trash has remained close to the same—about 5 extra bags were needed for the year—most of this is related to cleanup of encampment, not our building partners.

Continued the LED conversion: replaced lighting in Pastor’s Study & emergency stairwell lighting, and more of the exit lighting.

New recognition and work: We received the Metro Pesticide Free Zone Certification (see our medallion in the garden by the Stephens Street sidewalk), held a green recycling day for electronics with the help of Green Century. We had MCC join us for Sunday Parkways Bike Blessing & Ride Your Bike to Worship. A Blessing of the Animals was hosted with our building partner, MCC. A long prayed for Bike Rack was manufactured for us by a local company. MCC is helping with both the cost and installation.

We hosted groups that helped to extend the greening and justice work of our congregation: new to us was Fuller Bike Adventure in their Biking to Build Affordable Housing in their 4,000 mile journey around the western US. Returning were Learning & Serving Together teens & Lewis & Clark Environmental Justice teams who worked on many community wide projects.

A Statement of Land Acknowledgement was accepted, and we began using this in our welcome statement to visiting groups using the building and grounds.

Our Matthew 25 Initiatives and Peacemaking Grant include an active support of Native Artists to work towards completion of our Meditation Walk on the church grounds in 2020.

East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District free classes: 9/15 Introduction to Native Plants, 9/25 Beneficial Insects, 11/17 Naturescaping Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address Greetings to the Natural World was set as one way of approaching the coming year. A posture of gratitude is a Native practice we could all adopt.

Mission Partnership GivingMission Partnership GivingMission Partnership GivingMission Partnership Giving Our congregation continues as a Five for Five Congregation. We give a Mission Partnership Pledge (for Presbytery, Synod, and General Assembly Mission work) Theological Education Fund, and giving in the four national special offerings:

• One Great Hour of Sharing (hunger, disaster, community development)

• Pentecost (children & youth leadership development and support of children at risk)

• Peacemaking and Global Witness (ministries of reconciliation, peace & justice education world-wide ministries in partnership with the leadership of host communities)

• Joy (racial/ethnic higher education and church worker emergency support).

We have highlighted these connections and partnerships in our prayer life and in our newsletters.

Presbytery Participation ReportPresbytery Participation ReportPresbytery Participation ReportPresbytery Participation Report

Meetings of the Presbytery of the Cascades are open to anyone who would like to attend. Each meeting includes worship, education (leadership development & awareness of mission), and the business of the nearly 100 PC(USA) congregations that make up this region (SW Washington, Western & Central Oregon and one congregation in Northern California). We are able to have two ruling elders and the pastor (who is a member of the Presbytery) attend each meeting. Linda and Patti attended meetings in Ashland at First Presbyterian. Pastor Linda was able to attend the meeting in Beaverton at Southminster. Pastor Linda was unable to attend the Corvallis meeting due to illness.

In the coming year meetings will be held in Portland at Westminster in March and in Bend at First Church in the summer and at Lake Grove in November. Kate Belt attended all three meetings through the live streaming of the proceedings. All who have been ordained as elders can be elected by the session to attend these meetings with both voice and vote at the proceedings.

TO WORSHIP & KNOW GOTO WORSHIP & KNOW GOTO WORSHIP & KNOW GOTO WORSHIP & KNOW GODDDD

Worship & Music ReportWorship & Music ReportWorship & Music ReportWorship & Music Report Guest preachers: Aleida Jernigan, Chris Dugan, Emily Hebbron, and Nathan Meckley during shared services with MCC. Guest Musicians: Gregor McGee and Stephanie Cooke filled in as our accompanists in Ivona’s absences this year. We give thanks for the work offered that we may worship. No words can begin to convey the depth of our appreciation for Ivona Schacker’s care and support of our congregation through her leadership as our Music Director. We simply say, “Thank you Ivona!” Experiments in our worship life this year: A Bike Blessing was included on one of the Sunday Parkways in our region. Many in our congregation rely on bike transportation or recreation throughout the year. Praying for their safety and their care of creation was a blessing for our whole community. Shared worship with MCC Visiting our partner’s worship in our pastor’s absence (three opportunities), sharing Easter, our Advent music service, and the Christmas Eve Lessons & Carols We welcomed Musician in Residence Gregor McGee (piano & organ). We give thanks for new and continuing friends who make worship a special joy through their talent shared. Musicians in Residence Concert: In 2019, we launched Common Ground Collaborations, celebrating the gifted musicians in our midst. In March, Gregor, Logan’s new group (Rose City Brass Quintet), and Megan were joined by our new Building partner, Pastor Nathan Meckley, in this late winter, early spring event. We would like to make these concerts a three times a year effort, and need a person to coordinate the efforts. If you can assist with organizing the musicians, publicity or hospitality, please let Ivona or Pastor Linda know.

Education & Education & Education & Education & Formation Opportunities Formation Opportunities Formation Opportunities Formation Opportunities Lenten Study: Awakening to God’s Beauty Lenten Study: Awakening to God’s Beauty Lenten Study: Awakening to God’s Beauty Lenten Study: Awakening to God’s Beauty

Wednesdays & Thursdays in Lent we offered an opportunity to participate in an exercise of mindfulness and a prayerful reading of the Psalms. A copy of the Lenten resource “Awakening to God’s Beauty” was available to everyone for home, Sunday use, and participating in the Wednesday/Thursday prayer time. The Lenten gathering was a brief time of prayer and reflection. We began with a short exercise designed to teach basic practices of mindfulness— the heart of all contemplative prayer in the Christian tradition, and seen in other faiths as well. Our prayer time centered on the psalm for the week from “Awakening to God’s Beauty” and encouraged us to explore where we see God at work in the world that surrounds us.

Dr. John Dominic Dr. John Dominic Dr. John Dominic Dr. John Dominic Crossan:Crossan:Crossan:Crossan: The Contemporary Challenge of EasterThe Contemporary Challenge of EasterThe Contemporary Challenge of EasterThe Contemporary Challenge of Easter This was held at Southminster Presbyterian Church on April 5-6, 2019. Pastor Linda invited our congregation to participate as part of our Adult Education Program with the costs covered by continuing education. Session #1 Friday 7:30–9:00 pm Lecture: Jesus' Execution in the Gospel of Mark, Session #2 Saturday 9:00 –10:30 am Lecture: Six Questions on Jesus' Resurrection, Session #3 Saturday 11:00 am–12:30 pm Panel Discussion: Putting Easter into Action (Crossan & local religious leaders), Session #4 Saturday 2:00–3:30 pm Lecture: The Evolutionary Challenge of Jesus' Universal Resurrection.

One part of our PDA efforts in One Great Hour of Sharing:One part of our PDA efforts in One Great Hour of Sharing:One part of our PDA efforts in One Great Hour of Sharing:One part of our PDA efforts in One Great Hour of Sharing:

IntroductioIntroductioIntroductioIntroduction to Disaster Preparedness for Churchesn to Disaster Preparedness for Churchesn to Disaster Preparedness for Churchesn to Disaster Preparedness for Churches In May, the Presbyterian Urban Network sponsored a training to help us learn about what churches need to be aware of and plan to be prepared for emergencies and disasters. The training was held at Calvary Presbyterian Church in their Fellowship Hall on Saturday May 4, 2019 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and included lunch. It was led by Rebecca Jewel, who had been trained through the National office of our Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) program.

One Congregation, One Precinct; the City Office of Civic Life & Homeland Security One Congregation, One Precinct; the City Office of Civic Life & Homeland Security One Congregation, One Precinct; the City Office of Civic Life & Homeland Security One Congregation, One Precinct; the City Office of Civic Life & Homeland Security

help us offer Safe Space in a Violent World help us offer Safe Space in a Violent World help us offer Safe Space in a Violent World help us offer Safe Space in a Violent World Pastor Linda & Wave Mead (MCC) met with Mark Wells of the Office of Community & Civic Life Crime Prevention Program on June 10. We walked through the building, as we talked about the challenges of our neighborhood and creating a safe space for our communities of faith. We worked out ways to provide some training and planning that we hope will create safety & evacuation plans without raising fears and anxieties. We invited Mark to our Front Porch Party. At the end of June, Pastor Linda, Sue Clendaniel, and Wave Mead attended a briefing and received training materials in the wake of the shootings at Tree of Life Synagogue. In the fall, we hosted the city’s new representative of the Office of Civic Life “Neighbors Together” to give an update on city government changes in this program, a redesign of the Neighborhood Watch Program. Pastor Nathan (MCC) and Sue Clendaniel attended this meeting. Pastor Linda gave a welcome and land acknowledgement greeting as we met a few of the neighbors from the area who have been active in organizing block watch efforts.

Conversations of CareConversations of CareConversations of CareConversations of Care In July & August we invited every family raising children in MCC and our congregation to

come and share their ideas and hopes as we prepared to hire a children’s ministry person for

weekly work with both congregations. The conversations offered: a tour and play date, and

an opportunity to meet & greet new faces and these were held on Sunday, July 14 (after

worship), Tuesday, July 23 (with a brown bag dinner), and Saturday, August 3 10:00 am or

4:00 pm (Front Porch Party day).

Skills for DSkills for DSkills for DSkills for Dismantling Racismismantling Racismismantling Racismismantling Racism

Moving from Colorblind to Race Conscious Moving from Colorblind to Race Conscious Moving from Colorblind to Race Conscious Moving from Colorblind to Race Conscious Parenting and TeachingParenting and TeachingParenting and TeachingParenting and Teaching

Our congregation with Hawthorne Family Playschool cosponsored an evening workshop to build skills for dismantling racism on Wednesday, November 13. Teacher Susan Eisman offered the instruction for anti-bias parenting and education in this first of four event s. These 2.5 hour workshops are for parents and teachers of young children. Pre-registration is required (through HFP's website). The series is for adults only and is free of charge. Child care for the evenings is not available (see Pastor Linda if this is a barrier for you to attend in 2020). Susan will lead the remaining classes for 2020 on: Tuesday, February 18 in the Social Hall;

Wednesday, April 22 in the Chapel, and Wednesday, June 10 in the Chapel.

Learn about DemenLearn about DemenLearn about DemenLearn about Dementia & Alzheimer's and the Churchtia & Alzheimer's and the Churchtia & Alzheimer's and the Churchtia & Alzheimer's and the Church Our planned evening to learn about Dementia & Alzheimer's and the Church by Rev. Marsha Dempsey in November needed to be postponed—we hope to schedule this early in 2020. Keep an eye out in the newsletters and bulletin announcements for information about this opportunity.

Presbyterian Women of the Presbytery of the Cascades Fall Gathering wasPresbyterian Women of the Presbytery of the Cascades Fall Gathering wasPresbyterian Women of the Presbytery of the Cascades Fall Gathering wasPresbyterian Women of the Presbytery of the Cascades Fall Gathering was

Building Bridges of UnderstandingBuilding Bridges of UnderstandingBuilding Bridges of UnderstandingBuilding Bridges of Understanding The First Presbyterian Church of Woodburn hosted this daylong event led by Rev. Cynthia O’Brien. Cynthia’s work with Better Angels has received national recognition. Better Angels is a bipartisan citizen’s movement to unify our divided nation by bringing red and blue Americans into a working alliance and building new ways to talk to one another, participate together in public life, and influence the direction of the nation.

In 2020 Jane Kirkpatrick will be the PW Spring Gathering featured speaker at First Presbyterian, Portland. We will share the details for participating as soon as they are available.

Reading & Reflection Book GroupReading & Reflection Book GroupReading & Reflection Book GroupReading & Reflection Book Group

Our book discussions find a variety of themes such as relationships, inequality, social justice, healing, redemption, and hope. Nearly all of the 12 books read in 2019 related in some way to Common Ground's mission and ministry areas of focus

Kate and Sue sent out a survey asking about most and least liked books going back 3 years. Some people's most liked were others' least liked! Overall, we appreciate a wide diversity of stories, both fiction and nonfiction, so long as they are well written with strong character development and include characters with whom we can resonate.

We assemble the schedule for 12 months at a time compiled from participants' suggestions and voted on by the group. Kate Belt, her friend Pam (one of our regular participants), and Sue Clendaniel help with the process. Pastor Linda provides the layout and artwork for an attractive brochure to share with friends and neighbors. The complete schedule for the current year is posted on the church website. Each monthly selection appears in the Sunday worship bulletin and church newsletter. Kate sends a monthly reminder with meeting information that includes the book schedule and Multnomah County Library web links to each book for ease in placing holds. Pastor Linda, Sue, and Linda Brown provide hospitality at the church, setting up for meetings and providing refreshments. Thanks to all who make the group work. (No pun intended!)

Nine people participate on a regular basis, and it is rare to have all 9 there every month. All are welcome to come when they are able, whether or not they have read the book. Of the 9, 3 started coming as friends of Kate and 2 as friends of Sue, so this event allows s an opportunity to show others how we understand our calling as God's people in this place. Some are affiliated with other faith groups and some with none. Another 4 people who no longer come still request inclusion in the emails.

This Fall, a regular participant notified us that a close friend whom she'd introduced to the group in 2017 had died suddenly. We were blessed to hear what Gayle will miss about her friend and support her in her loss.

Joyfully submitted, Kate Belt

5-Teens 4- Elementary School 3-Preschoolers 3-Infants & Toddlers Participated in the education & worship activities of the church over the year.

Children’s Ministry Children’s Ministry Children’s Ministry Children’s Ministry HighlightsHighlightsHighlightsHighlights We said farewell to Debra Pulse (She continues worship with us & serves as a Deacon) who had shared with Anita Seely in the work of caring for our youngest members of the community. We welcomed Joy Rothi this year to the Children’s Ministry team. Each week these leaders ensure that there is an intentional welcome and support for families that regularly participate, or simply are occasional guests.

Art Literacy Summer Camp offered for a second year in our building by artist Ms. Serene Green gave a chance for children to receive art education during the summer. Four camps were held in our building. Lewis & Clark participants helped to clean the Children’s Classrooms with Ms. Greene’s direction.

Mostly, our children learn by doing. We are mindful of the Practices, Patterns and

Principles offered to our young people through their leadership and participation. As in past years, our practice of supporting leadership by all ages has our children reading scripture and liturgies, serving communion with the assistance of parents and the pastor, sharing information that we all reflect on in our Time of Wonder, lighting candles, and pouring water, to focus our attention in the work of worship. They share in music and many other activities. High school and middle school young people are invited to complete their community service for their school credit with us. We are led by even our youngest children as their journey around the sanctuary on most Sundays reminds us that here we seek to provide a safe environment, that a parent’s work of raising little ones is not simple or easy, that we are surrounded and surprised by the power of love at every age, that the journey of faith is an ongoing exploration.

STEWARDSHIP OF PEOPLSTEWARDSHIP OF PEOPLSTEWARDSHIP OF PEOPLSTEWARDSHIP OF PEOPLE AND RESOURCESE AND RESOURCESE AND RESOURCESE AND RESOURCES

Church Office and AdministrationChurch Office and AdministrationChurch Office and AdministrationChurch Office and Administration Patti Fish, Sue Clendaniel & Linda Stewart-Kalen staff and manage the office during scheduled hours (as did Debra Pulse until June). We supervise the ministry with the community service workers, calling on Peter & Seth Kalen when needed. Sue Clendaniel does most of the proofing with Kate Belt as backup. Sue Wallace continues as our bookkeeper. Some of our duties are: producing the Sunday bulletins and the newsletter, and preparing the bills for the bookkeeper. Patti Fish & Linda Stewart-Kalen are the only ones authorized to handle the mail, ensuring proper distribution for MCC & HFP and our own mail. If anyone is interested in volunteering in the office please speak with Pastor Linda.

Respectfully Submitted, Patti Fish

Building & Grounds ReportBuilding & Grounds ReportBuilding & Grounds ReportBuilding & Grounds Report Most of the improvements and maintenance have been noted in the Increasing Our Stewardship In the Environment Report (see above). Our community service workers do most of the routine cleaning under the supervision of Sue Clendaniel. Sue also works with building partners on their shared responsibilities. The session authorized using some of our grant funds for the increased needs of custodial services in the fall when our workers were not available. Pastor Linda replaced the faucet valves in the women’s restroom sinks to stop the leaks and installed motion and light sensor entrance spotlights on the Chapel and 28th Street entrances.

Our Peace Garden finally has a solid ground cover of succulents. We are working towards cleaning out the rain gardens to restore their best functions. Linda Brown has continued to care for the roses in our Northeast garden. The work she has done gave us one of the best years of growth and bloom. Thank you, Linda Brown, for blessing us with another season of your care.

One of the mugo pines was removed from the front garden to increase visibility at the parking entrance. The chestnut tree crown was taken out and the materials used to launch a new business by a local resident. Presbytery Barnabas funds were used for this work. The remainder of the tree will be one of the art commission opportunities. We began trimming the street trees for sidewalk access, growth habit, and health. This job will be completed in 2020.

Once our bike rack is installed, we hope to research adding an awning for some limited cover and some additional materials to help our guests secure their bikes, trailers, and panniers. We will phase out use of the inside of the building for bikes when these security efforts are in place. This will help us make our busy building safer and more spacious.

We continue to see signs of aging in our building and will soon need to conduct a full review of all capital improvements that will be needed in the coming five to ten years. This will help us plan for the fundraising and priorities in tackling projects.

Stewardship & Finance ReportsStewardship & Finance ReportsStewardship & Finance ReportsStewardship & Finance Reports

In our dedication of pledges, 7 households pledged a total of $32,000.00 for our next year’s needs in mission and ministry together. Twenty-five households have actively participated in our congregation. Thirty-nine households (this includes guests and neighbors and the special appeal and matching donations) donated to the work of our congregation. Building use contributions match our cost of operating the building at this time, but we continue to have little to build in reserves for an aging building (roof, furnace, major capital improvements or repairs).

In 2019, we received a Peacemaking grant from the Presbytery ($10,000 which arrived in 2019 and has been deposited in the Synod reserve account for use in 2020).

We thank Ashle Dixon, Emily Hebbron, Anita Seeley, Sue Clendaniel and Kate Belt who also participate as check signers. Leland Cain, financial secretary, continued to shepherd the count of our weekly offering and deposit until the Fall when he needed to resign. We are currently seeking a financial secretary and give thanks for Leland’s many years of service. Leland used the assistance of Peter Kalen to track the contribution records and issue statements that are available each year. Our 2020 per capita is $36.50 per member. These contributions ensure all congregations, regardless of size or means, can participate in the denomination at every level.

Pastor’s Pastor’s Pastor’s Pastor’s Proposed TProposed TProposed TProposed Terms of Call for 2020erms of Call for 2020erms of Call for 2020erms of Call for 2020 Each year the Session recommends to the congregation Terms of Call for pastoral compensation. These are set by what seems appropriate for the resources we are anticipating and the needs of ministry. The Presbytery sets minimum Terms of Call to guide our work. These will be reported to the congregation at the annual meeting. SECA for 2019 will be paid now that funds are available. At the January 13, 2020 meeting the session approved recommending that all other terms for 2020 remain the same as in 2019--the congregation pays ½ SECA and includes in medical payment the Spouse Premium, and Dental DMO. The annual leave is vacation-5 weeks, study leave-2 weeks, discretionary leave-1 week, Continuing education carry over from 2018: $695 and 2019: $1500 along with $1500.00 for 2020 this makes a total of $3695.65 (session will be discussing sabbatical plans at a later date).

Thank you!Thank you!Thank you!Thank you!

Nourished at the Table, we are sent to be

God's People in this place.

We are a people seeking ways for the light of Christ to be visible within and beyond our church walls.

May our door always be narrow enough

to keep out hate and prejudice, but wide enough to welcome all in God's love.