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DRAFT

ROXBURY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHA Congregation of the United Church of Christ

Gathered 1731 - An Ecclesiastical Society May 27, 1743 “We are a Community Seeking To Share God’s Love”

ANNUAL REPORTS FOR THE YEAR 2019

Annual Meeting • February 9, 2020, 12:00 p.m.Roxbury Congregational Church

24 Church StreetRoxbury, Connecticut 06783-1703

Church Office phone: [email protected] www.roxburychurch.org

facebook.com/RoxburyChurch

Congregation’s Mission Statement“We are a Community Seeking to Share God’s Love”

Relational CovenantEvery one of us is an essential part of our church community.We will open our hearts and minds to one another.We will let God’s love flow through us. We will focus on God’s word.We will speak honestly and respectfully. We will speak to principles rather than personalities.We will seek to do God’s work.

A few ways to be informed about the life of your church here in Roxbury:Faith Matters: Our church newsletter is mailed monthly to those who subscribe. Or you can pick it up in the Narthex (entrance), in Fellowship Hall, or at the Roxbury Market. It is also posted on the church’s website and an email notice is sent to the church’s eFaith Matters list.

eFaith Matters : We send out an email each Monday with the latest announcements, prayer requests and an inspirational piece and a Call to Worship on Fridays. Subscribe by sending an email to [email protected].

Church Website: The Church’s website, roxburychurch.org, is chock-full of information and events. There are resources for the journey of life, including online Bible Studies, as well as pictures of our common life and links to related sites.

Facebook: Our church’s presence in social media is on facebook.com/roxburychurchHere you will find another source of information and news as well as shared topics of religious and spiritual interest.

Meeting Minutes & Reports Board: This special bulletin board is on the landing just outside the Office Library area. On it are posted the latest minutes and reports for all committees as well as financial reports.

As always, if you are seeking some information, please ask,as we strive to be as transparent and open as possible.

All Board and Committee meetings are open to members of the congregation. (voice without vote). The only exception is the Pastoral Relations Committee, which needs a prior notification.

Roxbury Congregational Church p. 2 Annual Reports for 2019

ROXBURY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHA Congregation of the United Church of Christ

24 Church StreetRoxbury, Connecticut 06783-1703

860-355-1978 The Reverend David F. Peters, Minister

Church Office email: [email protected]

ANNUAL MEETING, February 9, 2020

Notice and Call is hereby given of the 276th Annual Meeting of the Roxbury Congregational Church, Inc. of Roxbury, Connecticut, to be held Sunday, February 9, 2020 following the morning service of worship, beginning with a potluck luncheon in Fellowship Hall, for the following purposes: 1) To receive Annual Reports from the officers and committees for the year 2019; 2) To act upon any such business arising from such reports; 3) To act upon the proposed Budget for 2020; 4) To receive the report of the Nominating Committee; 5) To elect officers, boards, and committees beginning in the year 2020; 6) To act upon other such business that may properly come before the meeting. All members of the congregation are urged to attend. Childcare is provided. The meeting will begin with a potluck luncheon, and the business portion will take place during dessert. You are asked to bring a dish to share, large enough for 6-8 servings. The ovens are available to reheat food. Drinks will be provided. Please speak with Brian Neff, 860-354-3177 or Rev. Peters, 860-355-1978, if you have any questions.


http://www.roxburychurch.org/

ROXBURY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHAGENDA

Annual Meeting of the Congregation February 9, 2020 Fellowship Hall

11:30 Fellowship Hour11:45 LuncheonGrace Rev. David F. PetersCall to Order Brian Neff, ModeratorEstablishing a quorumConstituting Prayer Rev. David F. PetersCall to the Meeting Pat Fraley, Church Clerk Approval of minutes of the 2019 Annual & Semi-Annual Meetings

Reports of Officers, Boards and Committees (with comments and questions)Church Clerk Pat Fraley Moderator Brian Neff Minister Rev. David F. Peters Minister of Music Sandra Kleisner

Board of Deacons Charles Stauffacher Board of Trustees Charlie Meade Christian Education Committee (Deacons) Mission Committee Barbara Biafore Stewardship Committee Colby KalisherPastoral Relations Committee Pat Fraley, Colby Kalisher or Tina

Brockett Church Library Joan TempleFellowship Committee Jeanne Steers Men’s Fellowship Charlie StauffacherScouting Jason McKayConnecticut Conference UCC ReportAcceptance of Reports

2019 Treasurer’s Report & Financial Report Beverly WolmerProposed Operating Budget for 2020 Charlie MeadeAction on the 2020 Budget.Nominating Committee. Sue Stauffacher Nominations from the floor.Election of Officers, Boards and Committees

Appreciation of those finishing terms Rev. David Peters & Brian Neff

Other business to properly come before the meeting

Adjournment


Annual Meeting MinutesFebruary 10, 2019

The meeting was called to order at 12:25 p.m. by Moderator Brian Neff. The official notice of the meeting was read, a quorum established, and a prayer offered by Rev. Peters.

The minutes of the 2018 Annual Meeting were reviewed and accepted, along with the minutes from the 2018 Semi-Annual Meeting.

The reports of Committees referenced in the Annual Report were reviewed with additional comments from the following:

Deacons: Charlie Stauffacher thanked David Lincicome for completing his term as deacon. Linda Ross removed herself as deacon due to family obligations. Diane Meade will be returning as a deacon and Mark Kibbe will continue as youth deacon for 2019.

Fellowship: Jeanne Steers thanked families and friends for helping with coffee hour and the various activities throughout the year.

Boy Scouts: Brian Neff thanked Jason McKay as the scout representative.

Trustees: Chris Childs acknowledged the work done by Dumas & Company and Chris Steers for completing the handicap area in the church. Chris thanked the fundraiser coordinators for the various events, as well as the Stewardship Committee for securing an 8% increase in pledges for 2019.

The reports were accepted as written and seconded.

Budget: The proposed budget for 2019 was based on the actual figures from 2018. The church staff will receive a 2% increase in their salaries. There will be a significant savings in the liability insurance this year due to a change in provider. Major projects for 2019 include the removal of a tree between the parsonage and the church, and the removal of the underground 30-year old oil tank. The soils will be remediated, and new tanks will be placed above ground in a new shed.

The budget was reviewed and approved for 2019.

Nominating: Sue Stauffacher thanked everyone, including those volunteers accepting new positions as well as those leaving current positions.

Brian Neff & Rev. Peters acknowledged people leaving office and thanked everyone. Rev. Peters added his appreciation to the congregation on behalf of the church.

New Business: Rev. Peters mentioned the deacons have approved the possibility of a seminarian from Yale completing their field work at RCC. The application is due and must be received by Roxbury Congregational Church p. 5 Annual Reports for 2019

Yale before the end of March. Roxbury Congregational Church has agreed to pay $2000 towards the $4000 stipend offered by Yale. The Men's Fellowship Group has pledged $1000 and additional donations would be appreciated as this expenditure is not a budgeted item. David Lincicome offered the suggestion of raising enough to cover transportation costs as well. The seminarian would attend committee meetings, preach once a month and be offered visitation opportunities.

A motion to adjourn was made and seconded at 1:05 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Heidi Neff

Semi-Annual Meeting MinutesOctober 13, 2019

The meeting was called to order at 11:55 am by Moderator Brian Neff and a prayer was offered by Rev. Peters.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Deacons- Annual evaluation of Pastor will be completed today.- Laity Sunday – Oct. 20. - Bookmarks in pews with church info on them.- Placemats will be printed also with church info to be used at social events (eg.. c. cookoff)

Treasurer’s reportWe are in good financial shape. Nothing has been taken out of endowment, due to generous pledges. Beverly has created graphs with comparisons to last years.

Trustees- Thanks were expressed to all Trustees and the Pastor who has gone over & above.- They are working on next years budget.Please let them know of any new initiatives.- Fall work day – 2nd Sat. in Nov. All are invited to Mens Breakfast prior to working.- Discussion on more use of the building by groups.

Christian Ed.- Diane is working on gathering materials for church school . We also need church school

volunteer teachers.

Missions- Thanks to all who donated for emergency buckets. They will be assembled shortly.- They have approved all the giving projects.

Music


- Trustees have offered some money from Memorial Funds to be used for refurbishing Choir area . Choir members will provide input. Parish Relations

- meeting date needs to be set.

Nominating- Consider where you would like to serve.

Stewardship- Colby Kalisher and Mike Wilcox are chairing. Theme: Gotta Have Heart.

Youth Group – will meet Sunday at 2 pm.

Historian – Please add birthdays and anniversaries to book in Parish Hall.

Men’s Fellowship - Breakfasts are held 2nd Sat. of the month. All are invited and men come from the community as well. - Sue Stauffacher asked what they do with funds they collect.

Minister’s Report - Rev. Peters expressed thanks for the Mindfulness Group and Grief and Loss Group facilitators. On Sept. 28, there will be a public presentation by Sam Dexter called. “Getting Through the Holidays”.

- The oil tank has been installed and we have heat.

- On Oct. 23, our church will be hosting the Fall meeting of the Litchfield South Assoc. The meeting will include dinner and business meeting and program on Racial Justice Training.- Mary Elizabeth Peck left money to the church in her will.- Boy Scout Troop 65 of which we are the Institutional Sponsor. The church will own their trailer.- Ct Conference merger, CT, Mass and RI will be combined as one on Jan 1. It will be called Southern New England Conference of UCC. Rev. Mike Ciba –will still be our Regional Minister.- For 2020, our basic support and per capita contribution will total $6250.00-New Business- Planning is started for the Annual Christmas Fair , an important fundraiser for the Church.

Meeting was adjourned at 12:35 pm

Respectfully Submitted,

Pat Fraley Church Clerk


REPORT OF THE CHURCH CLERK January 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019

MEMBERSHIPCHURCH MEMBERSHIP – JANUARY 1, 2019 275

MEMBERS RECEIVED June 9, 2019: Confirmation (1):

Caroline Kibbe

June 9, 2019 New Members (4)Brett and Bernadette KibbeJonathan and Lauren Lord

+ 5 + 5

OFFICIAL MEMBERS REMOVED -4By Death (4)March 21, 2019: Mary Elizabeth (MacCallum) PeckApril 2, 2019: Susan C. CooperMay 14, 2019: Rev. Dr. Harry L. PeattOctober 27, 2019: Marian Cummings

Transferred to another church (0) 0

By established process, notice, and vote of the Deacons – (0)(Placed on the Historical Members Listing in Church Records)

By Transfer to another church: (0)By Own Letter of Request (0)

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP- DECEMBER 31, 2019 276

SACRAMENTS AND RITES OF THE CHURCHBAPTISMS (4)February 24, 2019 Kinsley Elizabeth Light, daughter of Zachari A. Light and Cara Anne

(Barkus) Light, born March 31, 2018 in Waterbury was baptized in the meetinghouse by Rev. Peters.

March 23, 2019: Brandt Reid Bedard, son of Robert Brendan Bedard and Samantha Travis (Pandolfi) Bedard, born May 11, 2018, in Danbury, was baptized in the


Meetinghouse by Rev. Peters. Troy Pandolfi and Erica Higgins are his Godparents.

May 19, 2019: Theodore Ross Lord, son of Jonathan Lord* and Lauren (Gully) Lord*, born August 28, 2018 in Danbury, CT, was baptized in the Meetinghouse by Rev. Peters. Jenna Downs and Matthew Rebillard are his Godparents.

July 5, 2019: Ava Grace Barrett, daughter of Andrew Barrett and Anne (Squire) Barrett, born January 19, 2018 in Melbourne, FL was baptized in the Meetinghouse by Rev. Peters. Kathy Baker and Steven Fortune are her Godparents

MARRIAGE SERVICES (3)April 27, 2019: Barbara M. Mousted* and Roy Edward Biafore were married by Rev. Peters

in the Meetinghouse.October 19, 2019: Sarah Emily Johnston and Alexander Lars Josefson were married by Rev.

Peters at the Mine Hill Distillery.December 21, 2019: Katherine L. Merrill and Mark J. Genua were married by Rev. Peters in

the Meetinghouse.

FUNERAL / MEMORIAL SERVICES (9) *= church membersJanuary 16, 2019 Anita “Mickey” Preston, 82, (mother of James Beckman) 82, died January 13, 2019 in Danbury, CT. A Funeral Service was held at the Cornell Funeral Home, Danbury with Rev. Peters, officiating. Burial was private.

April 12, 2019, Jamie Lynne (Beckman) Gorton, 31, died April 9, 2019 in Manhattan, NY. A Funeral Service was held at the Cornell Funeral Home, Danbury, CT with Rev. Peters, officiating. Burial was on April 13, 2019 in Center Cemetery, Roxbury.

April 13, 2019: Susan C. (Prescott) Cooper*, 61, died April 2, 2019 in Bethel, CT. A Funeral Service was held in the Meetinghouse with Rev. Peters, officiating.

April 22, 2019: Sara Michelle Sadler, 20, daughter of Corey and Heather Sadler of Brookfield. Died April 14, 2019 in Brookfield. A Funeral Service was held at the Danbury Memorial Funeral Home with Rev. Peters officiating. Burial was private

May 18, 2019: Autumn Ryan Jensen, 23, of Watertown. Died May 14, 2019 in Waterbury, CT from an auto accident. A Funeral Service at the Chase Parkway Funeral Home, Waterbury, with Rev. Peters officiating. Burial was private

May 24, 2019: Rev. Dr. Harry L. Peatt*, 79, died May 14, 2019 in Southbury, CT. A Memorial Service was held in the Meetinghouse with Rev. Peters officiating. Burial was private

September 14, 2019: Deborah Ann (Rocheleau) Chin, 67, died September 7, 2019 in Roxbury, CT. A Memorial Service was held in the Meetinghouse with Rev. Peters officiating. Burial was private.


October 30, 2019: Marian Cummings*, 93, died October 27, 2019 in Southbury, CT. A funeral service was held at the Carpino Funeral Home of Southbury. Burial was in the New North Cemetery, Woodbury.

November 23, 2019: David Sherman Hunicke, 63, died November 4, 2019 in Woodbury, CT. A memorial service was held in the meetinghouse. Burial was private.


Patricia Fraley Church Clerk

Annual Report of the Church Moderator, 2019

The Church Council met on a regular monthly basis throughout 2019. The Semi-Annual and Annual Meetings of the congregation were held in accordance with the Constitution and By-Laws.

The Church Council consists of representatives from all boards, committees and auxiliary organizations. Its primary objectives are to foster communication and promote long-term planning for the congregation. I thank all the representatives for their attendance and contributions.


Brian NeffChurch Moderator

Annual Report of the Minister, 2019The Reverend David F. Peters

I continue to be grateful to be able to serve as your minister here at the Roxbury Church. I give thanks to God for this privilege to be here in this time, place and among all of you.

2019 saw a continuation of the attendance trends evident nationally across denominational lines. Perceived busyness and a decrease in active church attendance as relevant to one’s life has moved some people from weekly worship attendance to every other week or monthly or less. Roxbury Congregational Church p. 10 Annual Reports for 2019

The encouraging thing in the midst of this is that loyalty by members of our church remains strong as well as financial giving, causing one not question how we “do” church. This has been a double edged sword for smaller churches as we seek to serve the members present and the wider community, and at the same time, to be relevant to those not attending. Our demographics here in Roxbury do not look good for young families and children, with the future of our district elementary school being looked at due to shrinking numbers. And this is evident here, as our church school is not active at this time.

With this downturn from an active church school, the focus has rightly shifted to adult nurture and support. Our Mindfulness and Grief and Loss groups have been offered with a large percentage of participants being from outside our congregation. A very good outreach and ministry! Thanks go to the leaders for their efforts and dedication.

Our congregation is acknowledged as a pillar in the Roxbury community providing opportunities of service, support and fellowship. Our dinners and fundraisers, while many times set up to provide needed funding, have the bonus of bringing people of the wider community together to talk and laugh and share, which is needed so much in our increasingly isolated age. The Trivia Night and Beef Barbecue are just two great example of this.

We continue to look outside of ourselves for ways to carry out the call upon us to share God’s love. I invite you to refer to the Mission Committee report and the ways that we carry out these efforts. The church continues to seek ways to reach out in support of those hungry, naked or afraid. We seek to bring a speaker each quarter to educate and inspire on some aspect of these ministries.

Recognizing our call to nurture our members in faith, and after consideration by the board of Deacons and approval of the Church Council, Diane Meade was appointed as the church’s Minister of Christian Nurture, where she will put her training and experience to work for children, youth, and most especially adult education experiences.

As Minister, I seek to inspire through worship and sermons and encourage you to stretch and lean into ways that you can be agents of caring, compassion and love. I know that this causes all of us, myself included, to be uncomfortable as times. I appreciate and thank you for joining me on this journey.

I am called on to provide a number of ministerial functions through sacraments and rites of the church and the personal connections to our church that arise out of them. You will note the number of times that I have been asked, on behalf of you, to be there in times of joy and sorrow. It is a privilege that I cherish and humbly honor.

I continue to be a presence in the Roxbury community and region on your behalf. I serve on the Roxbury Senior Housing Board, the Prevention Council of Bridgewater, Roxbury and Washington, as an EMT on the Roxbury Ambulance, as an alternate director for the Newtown Health District and on the Crisis Response Team at Shepaug Valley School.


In church circles, I continue as the Registrar of the Litchfield South Association, Delegate to the UCC General Synod (next one in 2021) and as the Convener of a Communities of Practice Clergy Group.

I could not be the presence and carry out the ministry that I do without the support of my wife, Susan, a wonderful church staff and dedicated church leadership. I thank you all. We are very blessed indeed and I do not take you for granted!

I begin the next decade knowing that our foundation is solid in Jesus Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit and made possible with your participation and support.

Grace and Peace,

Rev. David F. Peters

Annual Report of the Minister of Music, 2019

The music at Roxbury Congregational Church is an integral part of the service as a whole. The minister of music always strives to select music that both complements and adds to the spiritual essence of each service.

Choir: The choir has become a 10-11 member group of singers who are very committed to their participation in the choir. Monthly rehearsals have been held on Thursday evenings as early as Sandy’s schedule will allow. There have been times when additional rehearsals have been added for the occasional time when special music is planned. The confidence with which a well rehearsed piece can be sung is worth the time it takes to prepare, We continue to bring out our favorite well know anthems such as God, Grant Me to Be Silent as well as add new pieces to our repertoire. Email communications have been helpful in keeping al informed of rehearsals and any other necessary information.

Thank you to all the members of the choir who pitch in at all times for anything that needs to be done!

Soloists: We have had several soloists over the summer and during the church year. Mark Wolmer is always willing and able to share a solo from time to time and we are very grateful for his work. Vail Barrett has demonstrated his lovely tenor voice on occasion. David Lincicome shared his flute playing in the summer. A true highlight was having Mimi Ableles as a guest soloist for one Sunday in the summer. Then she and her daughter Lynne did duets including Pie Jesu by Andrew Lloyd Webber on another Sunday. It was a wonderful experience to have them both in our presence.

We have also heard solos from Sammantha Farrell singing You Say by Lauren Daigle and she also sang The Living Prayer. Rebecca Racz sang a beautiful arrangement of Away in a Manger for the Lessons and Carols service and joined the choir. A blessing to have these young singers share their talents with us!


Instruments: The piano is holding up quite well with regular tunings by Jim Birch. The organ has had some occasional inconsistent issues which should be attended to and there have been keys becoming unglued. A regular form of maintenance should probably be scheduled.

Chamber ensemble concerts: A professional chamber group entitled Long River Concerts has asked to do concerts at the church and their first concert will be held on April 26. Their program will include a Mozart violin sonata and a Brahms piano quartet.


Sandra Kleisner,

Minister of Music

Annual Report of the Board of Deacons, 2019

The Board of Deacons’ primary focus is the spiritual welfare and worship of the Church. We meet with the minister the first Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Church library. Our meetings are open to all members. We share with each other inspirational writings, our prayer concerns and how God’s presence has been felt in our daily lives. The minister provides non-confidential prayer concerns, highlights his activities of the past month and informs us of up-coming events. We conduct our business, and close our meetings by praying for members and friends of the congregation.

The Board of Deacons reaches out regularly on behalf of the Church to members and friends in times of need with calls, cards, and prayers. We appreciate all those who have visited members and friends of the Church in the past year who were sick or unable to leave home. If any others are willing to make such visits, please let us know.

We assist the minister with communion, baptisms, and confirmations. We plan the Laity Sunday service, held the third Sunday of October each year. This past year Charlie Stauffacher coordinated the service, which provided inspirational readings and special music. We perform an annual evaluation of the minister, discuss the evaluation with the minister and provide a copy of the evaluation to the Board of Trustees. We coordinate those who participate in our worship services as readers and greeters. We greet visitors during worship and at Fellowship Hour. We also assist with providing preachers when Rev. Peters is on vacation or sabbatical during the summer, in providing mission speakers during worship and in ushering for funerals. We prepare the sanctuary for worship Sunday mornings, marking scripture readings in the alter bible, and then, after worship, check the pews and turn off the lights.

This past year we sent letters to members who have been inactive in the Church for two years or more and removed from active status those who did not respond that they wished to continue as active or affiliated members. We met with the 2019 confirmand, Caroline Kibbe, at our March meeting and talked with her about her statement of faith. We sent letters to all families who


moved to Roxbury in the last 3 years, inviting them to worship with us and to participate in our other activities.

We completed an 11”x17” placemat for use at the Chili Cook-Off and other events, listing Church leadership, outreach and upcoming events. We also created a “Welcome Guests” bookmark for the pews listing leadership, mission activities and electronic resources.

Ray Fitch and Charlie Stauffacher continue to lead the group mindfulness/meditation practice every Saturday in the Church library from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Ray Fitch, Diane Meade and Sue Stauffacher conducted a 6-week session on grief and loss in May/June and a 4-week session in November. Diane Meade is coordinating Adult and Youth Christian Education on behalf of the Deacons.

We offer all of you blessings and encouragement in your faith journeys. Please feel free to contact any one of us with questions or suggestions regarding worship or ways to share, experience and grow in our faith.

Charlie Stauffacher will be leaving the Board in February 2020, after completing two three-year terms.


Charlie Stauffacher, Chair, Ray Fitch, Pat Fraley, Diane Meade, Michael Wilcox and Mark Kibbe, Youth Deacon

Annual Report of the Board of Trustees, 2019 The Trustees report for 2019 is a thankful, hopeful, and grateful one. We are thankful to the congregation for their ongoing and generous financial support, which allows our church and members to grow in faith and practice our ministries individually and collectively.We are grateful to all of you who contribute their time, talent and treasure to help keep faith alive in this church as well as share our faith with all we meet in our daily lives. Financially speaking, in 2019 our actual income and expenses came in very close to budget.

During the year we were blessed by Beverly Wolmer who provided financial updates which were very helpful and much appreciated. Of particular note, 2019 was the first year in several that we did not need to make a withdrawal from our Investment Account to meet operating expense needs. This allowed our Investment Account to grow nicely in 2019.

Thanks to all who participated in our workdays. Many hands do make light work.

The big facility related focus for the Trustees in 2019 was the Oil Tank Removal and replacement. The numerous steps and various powers to be were all coordinated by Rev. David


who deserves a big “THANK YOU” for assuming so many non-ministerial duties day in and day out. Thank You David, we are truly blessed!

Another big “Thank You” to Chris Steers for his excellent craftmanship in the construction of the above ground oil tank enclosure. And again thanks to Chris for his work placing a door window for the nursery and changing station in the multi gender restroom.

The large tree was taken down between the Chapel and the Parsonage before it fell and damaged any property.

In 2019 the Trustees also reviewed and approved the updated Safe Conduct Policy.

Respectfully,Charlie Meade, chair, on behalf of all trusteesTom Farrell, Chris Steers, Tina Brockett, Dale Pinchbeck

Annual Report of the Mission Committee, 2019

We are a most generous congregation and we are grateful! The Mission Committee has lived out its charge to support others in need, educate the congregation of what it means to live out one’s faith in a Christian manner and to have “hands-on” mission experiences.

Denominational SupportWe contribute to support the wider church and denomination through a number of different contributions in our church’s budget. They includeBasic Support, UCC – support towards our Connecticut Conference, UCC and a portion goes on to support the work of the national church and missionaries world-wide.Litchfield South Association, UCC – provides overhead support for this geographical association of UCC congregations and clergy in southern Litchfield county. It supports scholarships for church events, delegates to General Synod, the work of the Church and Ministry Committee and resourcing among member churches and clergy.

Special offeringsThis past year we have participated in a number of special offerings:

One Great Hour of Sharing Disaster Relief (United Church of Christ) $300.00 Strengthen the Church Local Church Development (United Church of Christ) $253.00 Mother’s Day Cards Blanket program (Church World Service) $225.00 Father’s Day Cards Tools of Hope (Church World Service) $140.00 Neighbors In Need Youth Ministries, Faith Formation, and Silver Lake

Conference Center $233.00


Santa Fund Children toys and clothing New Milford Social Services $189.00 Christmas Fund 2019 Retired Clergy assistance (United Church of Christ) $344.00

Discretionary GrantsIn addition, the Mission Committee makes discretionary grants to worthy organization who work within the framework of Christian mission. The are divided by area (CT,US, and International) This year’s grants went to:

ConnecticutRoxbury Resident Relief Fund $200Daily Bread Food Pantry $200Women’s Center of Greater Danbury $200Loaves and Fishes Hospitality House $200Association of Religious Communities $200Silver Lake Conference Center $200Brian O’Connell Homeless Project $300

United StatesBack Bay Mission $200Andover Newton Seminary at Yale $200Seafarer’s Friend – Boston $100Fuller Center for Housing $200Holy Joe’s Café – Chaplain’s ministry support $200InternationalSimply Smiles $200UCC Micro-loan Program (Wider Church Ministries) $200Church World Service $200Global Ministries -Family Village Farm/Day School – Child Sponsorship $200Heifer Project $200United Church of Christ Disaster Ministries $200

Total Distributions approved: $3,500$2900 from 2019 Budget, $600 from a directed gift

Each month on the fourth Sunday, the Mission Committee sponsors a Mission Moment during worship to educate and highlight one of our mission partners.We also collect nonperishables each month to be distributed at Daily Bread in Danbury.

Above and Beyond GivingWe are grateful to individuals who made special gifts beyond our congregation. They have gone to Daily Bread, Roxbury Fuel Assistance, to augment the Mission Committee’s discretionary giving, and numerous disaster relief efforts.

Hands-on OpportunitiesWe participated in a number of hands on mission projects this year. They included:Daily Bread Food Pantry in Danbury – monthly distribution of non-perishablesRoxbury Congregational Church p. 16 Annual Reports for 2019

Loaves and Fishes Soup Kitchen – served a meal monthly to approx. 26-30 peopleWeekend Homeless Breakfast – provided, cooked breakfast each Saturday and Sunday for the whole year in New Milford for homeless and working poor.Santa Fund Program Each December we commit to sponsor a number of children in New Milford and surrounding towns with a gift of a toy and an article of clothing. We also collect funds to pay for a Christmas meal for each family. This year we sponsored 23 children.Assembled Clean up Buckets and Hygiene Kits for Church World We sent 10 Buckets and 24 Hygiene kits to CWS

Thank you to our committee members and we look forward to the coming year. A special thanks for Beverly Wolmer for her help on many of these initiatives!

We are humbled and grateful for the continued generosity of our congregation as we seek to share God’s love!

Barbara Biafore, chair, on behalf of members Joan Temple, Chris Childs, Phil de Vries

Annual Report of the Stewardship Committee, 2019

The period of November through January is the busiest for the Stewardship Committee, and this year was true to form. We chose the theme, “You Gotta Have Heart” and sent out an annual appeal letter. Handwritten thank you letters went out to those who responded immediately. Then, came the dry season with only a few responses. Then, with a second letter and a generous number of continued pledges, the promises increased. At the time of this printing, we have reached $126,640 with 63 pledges received, shy of last year’s $134,672 for 59 pledges received.

Colby Kalisher and Michael Wilcox are thankful that we will have another member next year to add creative contributions and envelope-stuffing expertise! Now we shall work on a planned giving brochure.

Colby Kalisher and Mike Wilcox

Annual Report of the Pastoral Relations Committee, 2019

Thankfully, the Parish Relations Committee has enjoyed a year in which there have been no calls from the pastor and the membership for assistance. We say goodbye to Tina Brockett and will welcome a new member after the annual meeting. We anticipate meeting at least quarterly, to


review our calling and what it entails. We pray for another good year and trust God’s leading, should we be needed.

Colby Kalisher, convener, Tina Brockett, Patricia Fraley

Church Librarian’s Report for 2019

The Roxbury Congregational Church Library is open to all members of our congregation and community. The mission of the church library is to provide resources that celebrate our faith tradition, expand our understandings and knowledge of the church, challenge us to grow in our personal and collective faith journeys, increase social awareness, foster an appreciation of literature, and provide entertainment while honoring the virtues we value as Christians: those of love, encouragement, inspiration, appreciation for diversity, wisdom, insight, humor and hope.

The church library’s online catalog may be accessed at: http://www.librarything.com/home/RCChurchlibrary

There are currently 629 books in the church library collection.

Church members are encouraged to view the church library’s online “wishlist” and to consider donating a book to the library collection by following these steps:

Go to amazon.com Click on the Wishlist tab at the top of the page In the box titled “Find someone’s Wish List,” enter RCC If you want to purchase one of the books on the list, simply add it to your cart and check

out (it will then be automatically removed from the wishlist to prevent duplication) Drop the book off at the church library and notify Joan Temple at

[email protected] to let her know that you have made a donationRoxbury Congregational Church p. 18 Annual Reports for 2019

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.librarything.com/home/RCChurchlibrary

Please visit the church library before or after worship or anytime the church is open. You will find a treasure trove of good reads!


Joan TempleChurch Librarian

Fellowship Committee Report for 2019

Share the cup of life when it is full, and it will never be empty.

The members of the Fellowship Committee organize occasions for church members to share in good times so that they can better support one another if difficult times come along. Fellowship is at the core of church participation. Specifically, we recruit hosts for refreshments after worship and we aim to provide at least one additional activity each month.

This year’s members were Cathy Racz, Beatriz Conroy, Steven Ross and Jeanne Steers, Chair. I’d also like to thank David Lincicome for organizing the Progressive Supper, Sundaes on Saturday, and the Caroling Luncheon. He and Ray Fitch were so often there to step in to help with Fellowship and whatever needed to be done. Although not on the committee, you would think that that they are we greatly appreciate all their work and effort to help pull these events together for all of us.

Among the best-attended activities were the Ladies Luncheon in May and the Progressive Supper in the fall. We also set up the Annual Meeting Luncheon, Maundy Thursday Dinner and hosted the Easter Breakfast. Summer activities included, Sundaes on Saturday, our ice cream socials, in July and August. We celebrated the end of Sunday School with a picnic on the lawn June. Our 4th annual Victorian Christmas Service was organized by David Peters with Roxbury Congregational Church p. 19 Annual Reports for 2019

the help of Cathy Racz, Dawn Collette and I. It was a huge success, well attended and the church and hall were beautiful. We organized two parties during the Christmas season: a luncheon following the annual caroling in December.

Fellowship also ensures that we have hosts for refreshments after worship each Sunday. We offer our thanks to those who generously help us by hosting throughout the year. We are so grateful for the many people behind the scenes who bake, help with setup and clean up after events, and contribute with their time and talents. Thank you to all for your help and to the people who attended and enjoyed our Fellowship activities throughout the year.

As always, we welcome new members and ideas for new activities.

In Fellowship and Gratitude,Jeanne Steers

Annual Report of the Men’s Fellowship, 2019

The Men’s’ Fellowship meets for breakfast the second Saturday of the month in Fellowship Hall.Our meal is served at 8 a.m., and kitchen talk is at 7:45. Our breakfasts are attended by members of the Church and also by community friends.

This past year we contributed $215 to sponsor an award for the Church Juried Art Show. We also organized the Spaghetti Supper held in March.

All men are welcome to attend, but we do require a letter from your doctor saying that you are able to consume massive amounts of cholesterol once a month!

Our staff includes Charlie Meade at the stove, David Lincicome on set up and biscuits, Charlie Stauffacher on quality control and Mike Wilcox helping with coffee.

Please join us for good Christian Fellowship.

Charlie Stauffacher, for the guys

Annual Report of the Scouting Program, 2019

The Roxbury Congregational Church remains the chartered sponsor of Boy Scouts of America Troop 65 and of Cub Scout Pack 465. Scouting's objective is to provide an educational program Roxbury Congregational Church p. 20 Annual Reports for 2019

for boys and young adults to build character, to train in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and to develop personal fitness. The Pack and the Troop is comprised of Bridgewater, Roxbury, and Washington and mirrors the collective community we see in sports, the Middle School, and the High School. We continue to have an active program.

As part of our gratitude for being our sponsoring Charter Organization, we have helped at the church’s spring and fall clean up days and pitched in on various tasks around the church.

Special thanks go out to all the volunteer leaders, the communities of all three towns who make our scouting program a success., and the Roxbury Congregational Church who sponsors us and provides meeting and storage space. Thank you!

Respectfully Submitted, Jason McKayBoy Scout Charter, Organization Representative

The Ministry of the Connecticut Conference, UCC in 2019(as of January 1, 2020 – The Southern new England Conference, UCC)


Roxbury Congregational Church Nominating 2020 (#) = first or second term *= 2 terms max. DRAFT AS OF JAN. 31, 2020(20XX) = year that term ends at close of the February Annual MeetingBold Names are submitted for election at Annual Meeting February 9, 2020

OFFICERS (One Year Term)Moderator: Brian Neff (8) 860-354-3177 [email protected] Moderator: Charlie Meade (1) 860-898-0107 [email protected]: Pat Fraley (4) 860-868-0051 [email protected]: Cathy Racz (1) 860-799-0180 [email protected] Treasurer: Beverly Wolmer (1) 860-355-6922 [email protected]: Heidi Neff (1) 860-354-3177 [email protected]/Audit: Dumas & Co 860-355-2223 @dumascpa.com Librarian: Joan Temple (10) 860-350-0529 [email protected]: Dale Pinchbeck (4) 860-355-4297 [email protected]

Board Of Deacons (3 Year Term*) Michael Wilcox (2) (2023) 860-354-8821 [email protected] Kalisher (1) (2023) 860-355-8012 [email protected] Fraley (1) (2022) 860-868-0051 [email protected] Wolmer (1) (2022) 860-355-6922 [email protected] Meade (1) (2021) 860-355-1584 [email protected] Fitch (2) (2021) 203-586-9599 r [email protected] Kibbe (Youth) (3) (2020) 860-355-7574 [email protected]

Board Of Trustees (3 Year Term*) Charlie Meade (2) (2023) c. 860-898-0107

[email protected] Steers (1) (2023) 860-354-7210 [email protected] ________________ (1) (2022) ___________ _________________________Tom Farrell (1) (2022) 203-948-2833 [email protected] Pinchbeck (1) (2021) 860-355-4297 [email protected] Steers (1) (2021) 860-354-7484 [email protected]

Mission Committee (3 Year Term*) Phil deVries (2) (2023) 860-354-0062 [email protected] Fitch (1) (2023) 203-586-9599 [email protected] Mousted (1) (2022) 860-799-6501 [email protected] Temple (2) (2022) 860-350-0529 [email protected]________________ (1) (2021) ____________ ________________________Christopher Childs (2) (2021) 860-355-9067 [email protected]

Fellowship Committee (3 Year Term*) Beatriz Conroy (2) (2023) 860-354-2529 [email protected] Cover (1) (2023) ____________ ______________________Diana deVries (1) (2022) 860-354-0062 [email protected] Congregational Church p. 23 Annual Reports for 2019



Jeanne Steers (2) (2022) 860-354-7484 [email protected] Zappulla-Peters (1) (2021) 860-355-8830 [email protected]_________________ (1) (2021) ___________ _________________________

Stewardship Committee (3 year term) Michael Wilcox (2) (2023) 860-354-8821 [email protected] Ross (1) (2022) 860-799-5421 [email protected] Kalisher (2) (2021) 860-355-8012 [email protected]

Pastoral Relations Committee (3 Year Term) Jan Steers (1) (2023) 860-354-7210 [email protected] Fraley (1) (2022) 860-868-0051 [email protected] Kalisher (3) (2021) 860-355-8012 [email protected]

Nominating Committee (2 year terms)Nancy Callahan (2) (2022) 203-264-4037 [email protected] Childs (1) 2021) 860-355-9067 [email protected] Stauffacher. (2) (2021) 860-354-1274 [email protected]

Church Christmas Fair Committee 1 year term Cathy Racz (4) (2021) 860-799-0180 [email protected] Meade (1) (2021) 860-898-0107

[email protected] Collette (1) (2021) 203-947-1098 [email protected]

Flower Committee 1 year term (purposely left unfilled) (1)

Litchfield South Assoc. UCC Delegates 1 year term Diane Meade (3) (2021) 203-470-3686 [email protected] Meade (3) (2021) 860-898-0107

[email protected]

Southern New England Conference, UCC Delegates 1 year term Jay Pinchbeck (10) (2021) 860-355-2497 [email protected] Meade (7) (2021) c: 203-470-3686 [email protected] Lincicome (3) (2021) c: :203-948-2008 [email protected]

Boy Scouts Institutional Representative 1 year term Jason McKay (5) (2020) 860-868-2525 [email protected]

S taff Roxbury Congregational Church p. 24 Annual Reports for 2019


Minister Rev. David F. Peters 860-355-1978 h: 355-8830 [email protected] of Music Sandra Kleisner 860-868-9040 [email protected] Nancy Glover 860-355-1978. c:203-560-6093 [email protected] Bruce Rossiter 860-354-3065 c:203-770-3255 [email protected]

Fundraisers / MinistriesRummage / Bake Sale Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Sale Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Art Show Charlie Meade - 860-355-1584

[email protected] Barbecue Chris Childs 860-355-9067

[email protected] Cook-off Steve Ross 860-799-5421

[email protected] Charlie Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected]

Spaghetti Suppers Charlie Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Nights Chris Childs 860-355-9067

[email protected] Temple [email protected]

Cash for Causes (cash cards) Heidi Neff [email protected]

SERRV (third-world gifts) Susan Zappulla-Peters 860-355-8830 [email protected]

Daily Bread Food Pantry Sue Stauffacher 860-354-1274 [email protected] Homeless Weekend Breakfast Charlie Meade 860-355-1584

[email protected] & Fishes Soup Kitchen Charlie Meade 860-355-1584

[email protected] Shawls/Squares Jan Steers 860-354-7210 [email protected] Service Trips David Peters 860-355-1978

[email protected] Meditation: Charlie Stauffacher: 860-354-1274 [email protected] and Loss Ray Fitch 203-586-9599

[email protected]

GroupsYouth Group: Barbara Cover 860-354-5140

[email protected]’s Fellowship Charlie Stauffacher: 860-354-1274 [email protected] Scouts Brad Jones, Scoutmaster 860-868-5566

[email protected] Scouts Eliot Johnson 860-868-7528

[email protected] Congregational Church p. 25 Annual Reports for 2019








Yoga Suzanne Fitch 860-355-1764 [email protected]

cell: 203-994-0518

Church Treasurer’s Report, 2019

I am pleased to report that I was able to meet all the financial obligations of the church promptly. By keeping your pledges current, using electronic giving, and running many successful fundraisers throughout the year, you helped provide a steady cash flow. It was not necessary to tap the Endowment Fund as had been authorized in the budget.

Many thanks to Kevin L. Dumas CPA LLC, the Trustees, David, Nancy and Heidi for continuing guidance and support. Respectfully submitted,

Beverly WolmerTreasurer




Proposed Operating Budget 2020 as of 1/30/2020

Income 2019 Budget 2019 Actual 2020 Proposed Budget

2020 Proposed vs 2019 Budget

%Pledges $133,000.00 $127,536.81 $130,000.00 97.74%Plate offerings $2,200.00 $2,318.92 $2,300.00 104.55%Art Show $2,700.00 $3,796.22 $3,500.00 129.63%Cash for a Cause $2,900.00 $1,750.11 $2,000.00 68.97%Beef Barbecue $2,300.00 $2,226.94 $2,300.00 100.00%Directed Donations $344.00 $0.00 Christmas Fair $9,700.00 $9,179.95 $9,300.00 95.88%Rummage Sale $1,800.00 $1,975.49 $1,900.00 105.56%Tag Sale $800.00 $1,075.00 $1,000.00 125.00%Building Use $1,400.00 $1,065.00 $1,100.00 78.57%Trivia Nights $2,500.00 $3,230.00 $3,200.00 128.00%Interest $8.54 $9.56 $10.00 117.10%Miscellaneous Income $415.34 $0.00 Chili Cook Off $1,900.00 $1,335.00 $1,400.00 73.68%Spaghetti Dinner $1,300.00 $926.67 $900.00 69.23%

Jazz Concert $896.00 $400.00 $162,508.54 $158,081.01 $159,310.00 98.03%

PersonnelMinister - Salary $55,337.04 $55,337.04 $55,337.04 100.00%Parsonage Allowance $3,000.00 $3,000.00 $3,000.00 100.00%SS Reimbursement $5,503.00 $5,554.95 $5,503.00 100.00%Health/Dental/Disability $27,174.00 $30,985.90 $29,352.60 108.02%Pension Contribution $11,376.00 $11,502.14 $11,502.00 101.11%Reimbursed Professional Expense $3,500.00 $3,500.00 $3,500.00 100.00%

Minister of Music $13,824.00 $13,824.00 $13,824.00 100.00%Church Secretary $6,750.00 $6,111.84 $6,500.00 96.30%Financial Secretary $3,000.00 Payroll Tax Expense $1,800.52 $1,802.03 $1,900.00 105.53%Custodian $3,700.00 $3,510.64 $3,700.00 100.00%Guest Minister $1,400.00 $1,875.00 $1,600.00 114.29%Guest Musicians $0.00 $133,364.56 $137,003.54 $138,718.64 104.01%

Building/ Grounds/ OperationInsurance/Workers Comp $8,966.00 $10,018.25 $8,613.00 96.06%

Fuel-Church and Parsonage $9,500.00 $8,270.40 $8,500.00 89.47%

Electric-Church and Parsonage $5,500.00 $5,515.96 $5,500.00 100.00%

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