Mission: To Know and Share the Good News

of Jesus Christ

Vision: To Worship the Lord

Live by Christ's Example Reach Out Through

God's Love

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension

2012 Annual Report

to the Congregation

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension

460 Sunset Ridge Road

Northfield, IL 60093

847-446-8335

Fax 847-446-8308

www.Ascension-Church.org

www.facebook.com/Ascension Northfield

Staff Pastoral and Administrative Staff

Pastor Rev. Dennis Kelly Office Manager Diane Carlson

Special Thanks to Office Volunteers

David Burk, Donna Craven, Martha Dahl, Marianne Piraro

Volunteer Finance Group

Treasurer David Krone Financial Secretary Diane Carlson

Bookkeeper Steve Kollmann Bookkeeper Donna Craven

Consultant Ruth Newman

Program Staff

Directors of Music Mischa Zupko and Minkyoo Shin Health and Service Ministries Coordinator Gail Price

Director of Youth and Family Ministries Kathleen Borchers Children's Ministries Coordinators Beth and Greg Peterson

Sexton Tom Winfield N ursery Attendant Dalia Zaghal

Children's Activities Coordinator Sylvia Sluscrczyk

Mission: To Know and Share the Good News ofJesus Christ

Vision: To Worship the Lord; Live by Christ's Example; and Reach Out Through God's Love

www.facebook.com/Ascensionhttp:www.Ascension-Church.org

THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION

AGENDA

for the

Annual Meeting of the Congregation March 3, 2013

1. Meeting called to order in the name of the Triune God 2. Declaration of a quorum (10% of the voting membership) 3. Minutes of the Annual Meeting, March 4,2012 (p. 2-4) 4. Elections:

For 3-Yr Term on Congregation Council: Jessica George, Ted Kavadas, Alice Kosnik, Kurt Vining

For 2-Yr Term on Congregation Council: David Nahrwold For 3-Yr Term as Auditor: Craig Colmar For 1-Yr Term as Auditor: Lois Vining For 3-Yr Term as Celebration of Life Gardens Trustee: Duain Claiborne, John West For 1-Year Term as Nominating Committee: Nancy Ferguson, Pete Glowacki, Ellen Kollmann,

Gail Price, Tom Van Aman, David Ward 5. Adoption of the 2013 Budget 6. Report of the Pastor 7. Report of the Council President 8. Closing Prayer and Recess/Adjournment

Reports and Special Items of Interest Report of the Pastor page 5-6

Report of the Congregation Council President page 7

Report of the Worship Ministry page 8

Report of the Service Ministries page 9

Report of Health & Stephen Ministries page 10

Report of the Family Ministries page 11-13

Report of the Faith Development Ministry page 14

Report of the Hospitality Ministry page 15

Report of the Sanctuary Renovation Team page 16

Report of Renovation, Renewal & Capital Campaign page 17

Report of Communications Team page 18

Report of the Performing Arts Team page 19

Report of the Audit Committee page 20-21

Report of the Endowment Fund Trustees page 22

Report of the Celebration of Life Gardens Trustees page 22

Report of the Nominating Committee page 23

Pastoral Acts page 24

Attendance and Membership Trends page 25

Financial Reports page 26-37

Five-Year Financial Trends page 38

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THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation

March 4,2012

At 11 :28 A.M. the meeting was called to order by Richard Kreutzfeldt, Council President. Pastor Dennis Kelly offered the opening prayer.

The sign-in count of members present showed that a quorum was established.

Items Requiring Attention: Motion:

To approve the minutes of the Annual Congregational Meeting on February 27, 2011, and the

Special Congregational Meeting on May 1, 2011.

CCC.03.12.01. Approved.

Motion:

To approve the nominating committee's recommended list of people to fill the vacancies as

listed.

CCC.03.12.02. Approved.

Motion:

To adopt the 2012 budget as presented in the 2011 Annual Report to the Congregation.

CCC.03.12.03.

Approved.

The minutes for the Annual Congregation Meeting on February 27,2011, and the Special

Congregational Meeting on May 1,2011, were approved (see Motion CCC.03.12.01).

Election: The nominating committee (Duain Claiborne, Linda Clinton, Helen Costello, Kevin Hanus, Ruth Newman, Curtis Spillers, and Caryl Scott) presented the following slate of nominees: Congregational Council (3-year term)- Janice Greenwald, David Krone, Lisa Rude; Auditor (3-year term) -Ken Kosnik; Endowment Fund Trustee (6-year term) - Jill Reid; Endowment Fund Trustee (5-year term) - Dorothy Kinnaird; Endowment Fund Trustee (4-year term) - Steve Kollmann; Celebration of Life Garden Trustee (3-year term) - Tom Novak, Kathy McCorkle; Nominating Committee (l-year term) - David Burk, Nancy Nagel, Kathy McCorkle, Donna Craven, Diane Carlson, Marianne Piraro. All nominees were approved for their listed offices (see Motion CCC.03.12.02).

Duain Claiborne (Chair of the Nominating Committee) gave the list of nominees for officers of the 2012-13 Congregational council: David Ward - Vice-President, David Krone - Treasurer, David Burk - Secretary.

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David Ward (Council Vice-President) thanked the outgoing council members for their generosity with time and talent: Duain Claiborne - parking lot and sanctuary, Curtis Spillers - construction loan financing, and Ruth Newman - treasurer and her willingness to continue as the overseer of draws for the construction loan. On behalf of the council and the congregation he thanked Richard Kreutzfeldt for his efforts and leadership as president of the council and presented to him a bicycle shirt showing LCA's logo on the front and name on the back. The response by Richard was one of surprise and delight.

2012 Budget -Andrew McCune (outgoing Chair of Finance Committee): The church's income (membership giving) shows a decreasing trend since 2008. However the amount of the drop each year has leveled off and lessened since 2010. An overview shows the budget going to the four following categories: compensation (56%), facilities (23%), programs and administration (11 %), and benevolence (10%). Within the third category (programs and administration) $27,025.00 is targeted for ministry development (worship, hospitality, communications, faith development, and stewardship). To lessen the impact on the general budget, Designated Gift funds (DGF) will be used as part of the allotments for ministry development, facilities, and programs and administration. Extra expenses are expected in the facilities area: complete cleaning of sanctuary, organ loft, Fellowship Hall, and office area; replace carpeting in Fellowship Hall and office area; redo landscaping around parking lot; some catch-up maintenance. Our benevolence amount (10%) will depend on the amount of income received. However, the tithing amount will stay the same. In summary the 2012 budget is about the same as 2011. Although originally projected as a deficit, the 2011 budget actually produced a surplus due to reduced cost of facility maintenance. And the 2012 budget is basically a break-even budget since some DGF funds are being used. Richard Kreutzfeldt mentioned that LCA is very fortunate to have a substantial DGF for limited use with expenses. The question was asked "where is the borrowing cost (loan) coming from?" Richard Kreutzfeldt answered that a portion of it is coming from the budget and the rest is being paid out of the loan proceeds. Within two years it is projected the total loan cost will be part of the general budget. However, by then, the loan will be greatly reduced by funds received from the Capital Campaign pledges. The budget for 2012 was approved (see Motion CCO.03.12.03).

Report of the Pastor - Pastor Dennis Kelly: The pastor reflected that his first year at Ascension was a year of recovery. It took time to get over the uncertainty of pastoral changes. It was also a time to reassess and re-evaluate Ascension's ministry. The second year (2011) was a time of revisioning the future ("Imagine"), resetting the organizational structure, the physical projects (parking lot and sanctuary), and identifying and using financial and volunteer resources. Now, in 2012, we may face our greatest challenges - moving from a maintenance to a mission congregation and from a membership to a discipleship congregation. We need to identify and embrace the use of the best practices of a growing congregation. We must increasingly reach outward to the community.

Report of the Council President - Richard Kreutzfeldt: There are four priorities set by the council: 1) Renovation and Fundraising - the result have been fabulous - the pledges for the Capital Campaign were over $750,000 and about half of those funds have been received - costs must be monitored as well as the fundraising and borrowing - the parking lot is completed and the sanctuary is to be done hopefully by the end of March - we now have to focus on how to maximize the potential of these new facilities. 2) Ministry Development - it is all happening as

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there are well-developed programs is all areas - funds have been set aside to ensure continued investment - the momentum must be maintained. 3) Support the "New" Organization - greatly expanded involvement of members in all ministries but we must encourage more members to get involved - a ministry has been featured every month and we will continue to do this - the leaders are collaborating and exchanging ideas - we must constantly recognize, encourage, support, and thank all volunteers. 4) Focus on Growth - so far 28 new members - 10 to 15 children in worship - 4,000 participation in special events - we began to realize volunteering is part of spiritual growth - but we must build on completed renovations and renewal ministries - increase our visibility and outreach to the community. David Ward and Peter Glowacki, 2 members of the council, spoke about building on the past (retreats, children's activities, family activities, July 4th parade float, etc.) to develop relationships within and without the church. By making the community aware that LeA is active and invitational we will attract more people of all ages.

Misc.: The question was raised about the services of a seminarian as youth leader. Pastor Kelly stated that various staff models have been explored and a job description has been developed and publicized. It, however, is for a youth leader who may not necessarily be a seminarian.

A Year in Pictures - Shirley Kreutzfeldt: A computer slide show of all the various activities of the church members throughout 2011 was presented by Shirley Kreutzfeldt. It was fascinating and exciting to review all that took place last year.

The meeting adjourned at 12:28 p.m. Respectfully submitted by David Burk, Secretary

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REPORT OF THE PASTOR - PASTOR DENNIS KELLY

Journey to Renewal: All Are Welcome!

Now to him who by the power ofwork within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen! (Ephesians 3:14-21)

It has been three years since we began our journey to renewal and two years since we initiated our capital campaign theme: IMAGINE .. ! That theme was based on the above passage from Ephesians. We were challenged to imagine what could happen in our congregation when we let God work with us, in us and through us.

This theme helped us to move forward with our plans for renewal through ministry redevelopment, replacing our parking lot, and renovating our sanctuary. This theme inspired us to make generous commitments towards funding these projects through our capital campaign. This theme guided us to rework our organizational structure in order to facilitate creativity and greater participation in our ministries.

In 2012, we continued to see the fruits of God's work in the midst of us. The story of this work is contained in the reports that follow. New members are joining. Programs are expanding. Participation is increasing. Relationships between members, leaders and staff are growing stronger. We can indeed look back on how far we have come and say to "God is good!" We are blessed indeed.

However, our work is not yet done! As I shared in my sennon on February 10th , Transfiguration Sunday, the biggest challenges we face on this continued journey to congregational renewal will come as we move forward. We have repaired the parking lot and renewed our place of worship. These are significant accomplishments. However, the real work of ministry occurs not within the walls of our facility but outside in the community around us.

The "job description" for this work is found in our confinnation liturgy.

You have made public profession ofyour faith. Do you intend to continue in the covenant God made with you in holy baptism:

to live among God's faitliful people, to hear the word ofGod and share in the Lord's supper, to proclaim the good news ofGod in Christ through word and deed, to serve all people, following the example ofJesus, and to strive for justice and peace in all the earth?

There are a lot of expectations in this statement: to continue ... to live ... to hear. .. to share ... to proclaim ... to serve ... and to strive. There is nothing passive about our faith. Ours is an active faith. We gather for worship to be nurtured through Word and Sacrament. We are then sent forth to live an active faith.

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An excellent example of faith in action is found at the end of the Pentecost narrative in the second chapter of Acts:

Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill ofall the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

To me this is a vision of welcoming community. It reminds me of one of my favorite hymns: "All Are Welcome". The hymn begins with these words:

Let us build a house where love can dwell and all can safely live,

a place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive.

Built ofhopes and dreams and visions, rock offaith and vault ofgrace;

here the love ofChrist shall end divisions:

All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

What would it take for Ascension to be such a place where all are welcome? That is the question we should be asking in the years that lie ahead.

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REPORT OF THE CONGREGATION COUNCIL PRESIDENT - RICHARD KREUTZFELDT

President: Richard Kreutzfeldt (2/2014) Secretary: David Burk (2/2013) Vice President: David Ward (2/2014) Treasurer: David Krone (2/2015)

Members: Barb Ford (2/2014); Janice Greenwald (2/2015); Pete Glowacki (2/2014); Norm Lee (2/2014); Nancy Nagel (2/2013); David Nahrwold (2/2013); Lisa Rude (2/2015); Pastor Kelly

As we wrap up the latest "council year" and prepare for the annual meeting of the congregation, it is a good time for reflection on where we have been as well as for looking to what lies ahead for our congregation.

Reflections - The last couple of years have been an eventful time in Ascension's history, and we have much to be thankful for. Notably, during the past year: ~ We completed the renovation of the sanctuary and began worship in this wonderful new

facility in May 2012. ~ We converted our construction financing to a mortgage and made a major dent in paying it

down, using proceeds from our tremendously successful "Imagine" campaign. ~ We continued to develop and grow our ministries and deepen the involvement of our

members. Well over half of our members participated in at least one area of ministry during the past year.

There are many, many people to thank for these developments. If you read the reports elsewhere in this annual report - from the pastor, the team leaders and staff, and the leaders of various initiatives - you will get an idea of the some of the people who made all of this happen.

Looking Forward - Now that we have come so far on our renovation and ministry development, Pastor Kelly has posed a profound question for us all to consider: "What is the Spirit now calling us to do?" My simple answer to that question is that we should do all we can to invite others to share in what we have built. Think of all that we have to offer - worship in a wonderful new facility, excellent music, a range of service opportunities, warm fellowship, Bible studies and other faith development opportunities, and strong programs for children and families. It is up to each of us to reach out and invite others to join us. Inviting others is Jesus' Great Commission to "go and make disciples." Now is the time to make it happen.

As I wrap up my term as council president, I am deeply grateful to a long list of people and have warm memories of great fellowship and a shared commitment to Ascension. In particular, I wish to thank my wife, Shirley, for her steadfast support and wise counsel throughout this rewarding and often challenging time.

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REPORT OF WORSHIP MINISTRY - MARK SWENSON, Team Leader and MISCHA ZUPKO, Director of Music

2012 was a landmark year in the life of the Lutheran Church ofthe Ascension. The year started, as 2011 had ended, with the congregation worshiping in the Fellowship Hall as remodeling of the sanctuary continued. During Lent we tried out a new (to the congregation) music setting that focused on the concept of water, which tied into the Lenten studies as well. Accommodations had to be made for Palm Sunday, where we couldn't process into the sanctuary from the Fellowship Hall, and Easter, when we were concerned about the number of people that might show up for services against the number of people who could reasonably fit.

Although it had been hoped that we would be able to worship in the remodeled sanctuary on Easter, it was actually a few weeks later that services were able to resume there. From that point on we began a process of learning the new qualities of our space. Given the various technical difficulties of learning about the lighting and sound systems, it was perhaps for the best that the first Sunday in the remodeled sanctuary had not been Easter Sunday! On May 20, 2012, the Sunday following Ascension Day, the remodeled sanctuary was dedicated in a well-attended and joy-filled service featuring a sermon from Bishop Miller.

The summer was a time of continued adaptation to the new space. Rally Day was held outside using a couple platforms that had been saved from the old sanctuary layout as a stage. As Fall arrived and the regular schedule with the choir resumed, we found that the new space worked wonderfully. After an extremely long time of using the popular setting eight from the hymnal, Advent seemed to be a good time to implement a new cycle of rotating through different settings over the course of the year. To avoid problems like we've had in the past on the day of the Advent concert, the service that morning was a ceremony of Advent lessons and carols, a new service for us. The three Christmas Eve services were well attended and marked a last "first" for our new space for 2012.

2013 will offer even more beginnings for worship in the new space as well as many chances to improve on how we use our space with events we've now had there one or more times. Through this process we hope to enhance worship for members and visitors alike and bring renewed energy to our mission.

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REPORT OF THE SERVICE MINISTRIES TEAM - ALICE KOSNIK, Team Leader

According to Robert Schnase in Risk Taking Mission and Service, "Nothing is more central to our faith identity and to the church's mission than transforming the lives and conditions of people by offering oneself in God's name." During 2012 Ascension members have generously offered themselves in God's name to many people in need.

• Family Promise: As a host congregation, we have provided housing, fellowship and meals to homeless families during one week of February, July and October.

• The Night Ministry: Donations of personal items and the sewing skills of members made it possible to provide one hundred stockings to homeless youth at Christmas. Additional donations provided one hundred $5 gift cards.

• Bethel Christmas Family Sharing: Approximately 200 gifts were provided along with financial donations. Thirty people also provided hands-on service at Bethel by caroling, wrapping gifts, or organizing the store.

• A Just Harvest Community Kitchen: Faithful volunteers and food donors made it possible to continue serving a meal on the third Tuesday of every month to 150-180 hungry guests.

• Starbucks Harvest: The twice-weekly collection of day-old pastries has provided patrons at A Just Harvest with hundreds of additional food items.

• CROP Walk: In addition to hosting this annual event, Ascension donated $2200 for local and world hunger. Approximately thirty Ascensionites walked in support of hunger concerns.

• Food Drives: Over 1100 pounds of food was donated to Chicago's Lakeview Pantry at Thanksgiving along with generous regular donations to the Northfield Township Food Pantry.

• Refugee One: The Rai family from Bhutan was resettled in Chicago through the efforts and donations of many Ascension families.

• Habitat for Humanity: A faithful crew from Ascension continued to construct affordable homes for families in Lake County.

• ELCA and LSSI: Ascension families responded generously to the ELCA's Malaria Initiative, to LSSI appeals, and to Disaster Response.

In many of the above ministries, Ascension members have personally reached out in love to those for whom it is not automatic, easy, common, or accepted. Financial gifts are always needed and welcome, but our growth in face-to-face ministry with those in need is particularly exciting.

"Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers." (James 1 :22)

We are thrilled that Ascension members are taking James' words to heart and we pray for additional growth in our congregational passion for service during 2013.

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REPORT OF HEALTH & STEPHEN MINISTRIES - GAIL PRICE, Health and Service Ministries Coordinator

Are you hurting? Pray. Do you feel great? Sing. Are you sick? Call the church leaders together to pray and anoint you with oil in the name ofthe Master. Believing-prayer will heal you, and Jesus will put you on your feet. And ifyou've sinned, you'll be forgiven - healed inside and out. Make this your common practice: Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you can live together whole and healed. James 5: 13-16, The Message

The Christian Church throughout the ages has been an agent of God's healing power at work in the world. Today, Lutheran Church of the Ascension remains committed to serving as a place of health, wholeness, and healing for people in our congregation and communities. Health and wellness ministries enhance whole person health, physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual, through learning, self-care, support, serving and worship.

During 2012 people in our communities were invited to join us in a variety of health promotion programs. They attended

• weekly Yoga classes (6 of 18 participants were from beyond the congregation)

• Safe Sitter babysitting instruction for 11-13 year olds (a majority of the students were not members)

• Flu prevention clinic

Support ministries multiply pastoral care in the congregation and beyond. During the past year support was extended through

• Stephen Ministry, offered to people journeying through a time of transition and

accompanied by a skilled listener

• Confidential intercessory prayer, offered by Stephen Ministers during worship and by members of the Prayer Chain throughout the week

• Prayer shawls created for and given to people to "cover them in prayer" during

challenging times

• Bereavement ministry, funeral Imemorial service receptions (Support Team), intentional invitation to special worship services (All Saints, Service of Light), written bereavement resources (Journeying Through Griefand others)

• Hospital and home visitation

• Personal health counseling

• Monthly lay home communion visits to people unable to come to worship

• Weekly Home Touch mailings to shut-ins

• Transportation to worship when appropriate (Support Team)

Responding to perceived needs, Health Ministry intends to offer varied support groups to the congregation and community with the hope of restoring wholeness in Christ.

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REPORT OF FAMILY MINISTRIES TEAM-PAM CARLSON, Team Leader, KAT BORCHERS, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, GREG & BETH PETERSON, Children's Ministries Coordinators

Children's Ministry: January - December

Throughout the year, Sunday School families had opportunities for Christian education, music, worship, service and fellowship. Before each Sunday School class, Minkyoo Shin met with the children to sing son~s they would share with the congregation during worship. In January and February, pre-K - 51 grade children learned the story of Jesus and John the Baptist through the gospels of Matthew and Luke and also learned about Jonah. Children in 3rd - 51h grade and their parents participated in First Communion classes learning about the sacrament of Holy Communion and making bread for their First Communion, celebrated mid-February. Though the sledding party was cancelled due to lack of snow, the Sunday School families enjoyed the fun, exercise and fellowship at the Pump-it Up party in February.

During Lent, Sunday School children continued their study of the Gospels, learning about Jesus's miracles and Holy Week. On Easter Sunday, there was an Easter egg hunt on the front lawn and the week following, the children continued exploring Easter by meeting Doubting Thomas. In the spring, pre-K-S1h grade children worked together to grow wildflowers and raise Painted Lady Butterflies, learning about Jesus' Resurrection and Ascension through nature. Students released their butterflies to celebrate the day that Christ, in the presence of His apostles, ascended into Heaven. For their service project in May, the Sunday School students contributed donations they had been bringing during the year to ELCA's Malaria Campaign. In June, children explored the story, art and science of Noah's Ark at Summer Sunday School. Over the summer, Dalia Zag hal and in the fall, Sylvia Slusarczykjoined the Children's Ministry team. Dalia oversees our Nursery (for 6 month olds up to age 3) and Sylvia works with children ages 4 and up in our Activity Room. Both are welcome additions to the Ascension community.

Sunday School children participated in the September Rally Day service by reading and participating in song and dance. During the activity time, Sunday School children experimented with 2 liter bottles launchers - connecting it to the rally day theme: With God, All Things are Possible. Children were amazed that they got bottles to soar higher than the pine trees. Prior to starting classes, preschoolers and 2nd graders were presented their story Bibles and new study Bibles, respectively. Throughout the fall, in art, drama, science, food and storytelling rotations, students explored the lives of Adam and Eve, Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Rebekah, and James and John, seeing how God makes all things possible. Sunday School teachers included Patty Cain, Diane Carlson, Pam Carlson, Jan and Moe Hincapie, Kevin Hanus, Brenda Husfeldt, Heather and Pete Glowacki, Fran and Aaron Meder, Lisa Nathaus, Lisa Rude, Beth and Greg Peterson, and Sue Peterson.

Camp Ascension was held in September, at which members of our Sunday School families enjoyed dinner, an outdoor movie and camping on the front lawn of the church. In October, the Halloween Party with families carving Pumpkins and making homemade pizza was a very special event because the Family Promise families were able to join us. In October and November, the Sunday School Families hosted a shoe drive for Sole4Souls in which almost 250

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pairs of shoes went to help Hurricane Sandy victims as well as those in need in Haiti, the Appalachian Mountain Region and the Hopi Native American Reservations. The Friday after Thanksgiving Movie Matinee wrapped up the month of November by giving parents a couple hours off after a busy holiday week.

The Sunday School children and their families participated in Ascension's celebrations of Advent and Christmas. In addition to the children and youth choir participating in the Advent/Christmas Concert, Sunday School families and children participated in the St. Lucia Festival and presented the story of the Nativity during services in December. In the Nativity Story, Eve Nathaus played the role of Mary, Michael Glowacki was Joseph, Faith Hincapie was the Angel and Michael Meder was the Emperor. Preschool to 2nd grade children participated as angels, shepherds and animals. Maddie Peterson, Spencer Peterson and Wallis Peterson narrated the Nativity Story for the Sunday School Children. For their service project in December, the Sunday School children made snowflakes for Sandy Hook School. The snowflakes were part of the Snowflake Drive by their PTA to create a winter wonderland at the new school for children returning after the December tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut.

8thYouth Ministry [Confirmation: grades 6th - ]: January - May With the resignation of the previous Youth Director in the spring of 2011, Beth and Greg Peterson added onto their role as Children Ministry Coordinators, the position of Interim Confirmation Coordinator. January to May, Beth and Greg Peterson, along with Mary Kelly and Lisa Rude, taught the confirmation classes on Sunday mornings. The Confirmation students studied Jesus' Baptism along with learning about decision-making from a Christian perspective. They engaged in Bible Skills and activities that allowed them to explore questions like "How do I stop doing things I know I shouldn't be doing?" and "What ifmy friends aren't Christian?" During worship throughout the spring semester, confirmation students were encouraged and scheduled to be readers, acolytes and communion assistants. Outside of the classroom in January, Confirmation families engaged in friendly competition on the ice at the Watts Center in Glencoe, with approximately 35 participants enjoying exercise, dinner and fellowship.

In February, the Confirmation students participated in the "Souper Bowl of Caring" by going on a supermarket scavenger hunt and donating the food they purchased to the local food pantries. In March, the Confirmation students attended the Lutherdale Retreat in Elkhorn, Wisconsin where their worship and Bible studies focused on Creation. Bringing some of the excitement back to Ascension, they presented a video of the retreat to the congregation, and the Confirmation students led the Sunday School children in a song that they learned while at Lutherdale. During Lent in the classroom, the Confirmation Students continued to tackle more tough questions like "Why do bad things happen?" and "Does God ever stop loving someone?" exploring them from a biblical perspective. On the first Sunday in May, 8th grade confirmation students: Carmen Alvarez, Liam Hamilton and Ethan McCune celebrated their Confirmation. At the end of May 2012, Beth and Greg Peterson completed their service as the Interim Confirmation Coordinators, continuing their work as Children and Family Ministry Coordinators.

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Youth Ministry [Confirmation and High School]: September - December

At the end of September, Kathleen Borchers, joined the Ascension team as the Youth and Family Ministry Director. Kat is responsible for Confirmation and High School Ministries. She works together with Beth and Greg Peterson to continue to build a congruous program for children, confirmation and high school youth from birth to adulthood.

Throughout the fall, Confirmation classes met on Sunday mornings for Bible lessons and activities. They studied the Lutheran perspective to Confirmation, getting to know one another, and continuing to tackle those "tough questions." In November, for monthly fellowship and service, the Confirmation students volunteered at A Just Harvest Community Soup Kitchen the Tuesday night before Thanksgiving.

With the help of Shirley Kreutzfeldt, the Family Ministries website has been reconfigured to have a central page as well as individual pages for Children, Confirmation, and High School. Other features include calendars and downloadable forms . We hope it will prove to be more user-friendly and a helpful means of communication. Please check it out!

Coordinated Ministry Efforts In June, Ascension co-sponsored Vacation Bible School, held at St. David's Episcopal Church in Glenview. Ninety children and over 50 volunteers participated. Beth and Greg Peterson served as co-directors along with Laura Dillon of Holy Trinity and Julie Howie and Marybeth Darr, both of St. David's. Ascension's 6th graders through adults served as volunteers and pre-K_5th

graders attended the week-long event as participants. The VBS theme of "The Sky is the Limit when you Believe" was continued in Ascension's participation in the Glenview Fourth of July parade. Headed by Pete and Heather Glowacki, Ascension's participation in the parade allowed for some great connections to the community as children along the parade route sang along as the VBS theme played from the float. Approximately 25 members from multiple ministries marched in the parade, surviving the heat and humidity. In August, Family Ministry teamed up with Pastor Kelly to have a "Blessing of the Backpack Service." Students entering pre-K through medical school participated.

Family Ministry was also involved in Ascension's celebration of the Advent/Christmas Season. Children in kindergarten through high school and their parents joined the Worship Team, Service Team and Choirs at the Bethel Family Store, through volunteering their time or by singing Christmas carols for the shoppers. The children and youth choirs joined with the adult choir and the Performing Arts Committee for the Advent/Christmas concert. Pre_K_gth grade students brought the St. Lucia tradition to life during a mid-December service. Sunday School children participated as Jule Tomtens, Starboys and St. Lucia assistants. Maddie Peterson was St. Lucia with primary assistants, fellow i h graders Wallis Peterson and Ava Althoff. Accompanied by Mischa Zupko, Spencer Peterson and Liam Rude were vocalists (part in Swedish) and Wynton Rude played viola. Alex Merrill and Kayla Reeves were narrators. Beth and Greg Peterson organized the event. Pam Carlson, Heather Glowacki, Kristen Merrill, Lisa Nathaus, and Justyne Reeves helped the children get ready for the service. Jan and Moe Hincapie provided Scandinavian food, music and decor during Fellowship hour, enhancing the St. Lucia tradition and the symbolism of Jesus as our light through darkness.

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REPORT OF THE FAITH DEVELOPMENT TEAM - JOAN LEE, Team Leader

The Faith Development Team charge includes the following objectives: • Offer diverse opportunities for Bible studies and discussion groups

• Explore adult education opportunities via online media

• Coordinate with the Communications team to promote awareness of faith development opportunities

In 2012, thanks to the efforts ofteam members and other discussion leaders, we are pleased to report that there were 126 opportunities for Bible studies, small group discussions, and Sunday adult education. There were 1,060 participations in these opportunities over the calendar year. Specific accomplishments include the following:

• Diverse program of Adult Education each Sunday beginning in the Fall

• Changes to First Sunday Discussion Groups to ensure opportunities for all members

• Sunday guest speakers for 8 of the Adult Education sessions

• Pastor-led weekly Bible study continues to grow in participation

• Women's weekly Bible study and Men's Bible study bi-weekly

• The first Spiritual Retreat in several years in March

• Maintenance of the Adult Library in the Augustana Room

• "Fun Faith Facts" added to weekly bulletin

• Daily Scripture Readings and Prayer List included each week in bulletin

• Up-to-Date information on Faith Development opportunities on the church website

• Daily devotions available for delivery to member's e-mail

• Weekly Bible study available on website

14

REPORT OF THE HOSPITALITY TEAM - DEBBY SCHWAB and ELLEN KOLLMANN, Team Leaders

Our Hospitality Team is dedicated to providing opportunities for social interactions in a faith based envirorunent. To help foster community here at Ascension, we have the following dedicated group of volW1teers.

• Ushers: Tom Novak • Coffee Hour: Ellen Kollmann • ABC Book Club: Alice Kosnik • New Members: Debby Schwab & Ellen Kollmann • Ascension Women's Lunch: Jan Leverenz • Guess Who's Coming to Dinner: Pat Socha • Ruth Circle: Mary Saletta • Coffee Hour hosts and ushers are acting as greeters

This coming year we are planning many opportW1ities for growth in fellowship. Some of these include:

• potluck dinners • brW1ches & IW1ches • receptions after concerts

This year to enhance our visibility we have added:

• umbrellas and stands at both doors • new coffee mugs with logo used during coffee hour every SW1day and included in

Welcome bags for visitors and new members • fans with logo for the 4th of July parade and as centerpieces for May potluck

We are all workers in the kingdom of God, willing to tell others about Jesus and invite them into His wonderful Kingdom. To help Lutheran Church of the Ascension move forward with our mission and goals, Invitational Hospitality is key. With that in mind, we have 2 challenges for all of you in 2013:

Challenge 1: Make an effort to greet someone you don't know ~ a newcomer, a new member, a familiar face with whom you haven't connected.

Challenge 2: Invite 2 people to share in our ministry this year ~ it could be a worship service, a concert, a Bible Study, Ruth Circle, Book Group. We have so many choices!

We've all been blessed with many treasures. Now it's time to share them with others!

15

REPORT OF THE SANCTUARY RENOVATION TEAM - KURT VINING & CHRIS RUDE, Team Leaders; David Krone, Dennis Kelly, Duain Claiborne, Jan Funk, Jon

Leverenz, Nancy Nagel, Mischa Zupko

Project Partners Serena Sturm - Architects Build Corps - General Contractor New Holland - Pew Contractor Pentegra Systems - Audio/Video Contractor Holtzmacher - Liturgical Furniture Contractor

Proj ect Costs General Construction (electrical, floor, doors, $464,209

fire detection & safety, lights & sconces, wall & ceiling treatments, permanent & portable platforms)

Pews & Chairs 63,296 AudioNideo 54,350 Furniture (altar, font, lectern) 31,100 Architect Fees 69,915 Acoustician, Permits, etc. 17,836

TOTAL $700,706

On February 20, 2010 the Congregation Council charged the Sanctuary Renovation Team with addressing the deficiencies of the pews, lightening the overall appearance of the sanctuary, enhancing the acoustics of the sanctuary, and improving physical access within the sanctuary. On March 27, 2010, the Sanctuary Renovation Team held their first meeting to carry out their charge. For the next 21 months the team met weekly to select contractors, approve colors, pick out fabrics, select tile patterns, review light fixtures, sit in pew samples, select types of wood, and approve end cap, platform, altar and font designs.

When construction began in late December, 2011, the team and architect Bill Sturm had made all the choices necessary for installing new wood and tile flooring, new lighting, new solid-cherry pews, new liturgical furnishings and new sound and video systems.

The project resulted in a gloriously open, light-filled worship space enriched with a beautiful new acoustic. The flexible floor plan accommodates a variety of worship and performance configurations ranging from an intimate Lenten Service to a Holiday Concert with choir and full orchestra.

The renovated Sanctuary was dedicated on Sunday, May 20, 2012.

16

UPDATE ON RENOVATION, RENEWAL AND CAPITAL CAMPAIGN As of February 10,2013 - RICHARD KREUTZFELDT on behalf of the Sanctuary Team, the Parking Lot Team, and the Capital Campaign Team

We have come a long way in the past two years on our Renewal Initiative begun in 2010. The renovation projects have been completed, ministry development activities continue with great success, and we had a very successful "Imagine" capital campaign. So this seems like a good time to give you an update on the financial status of these initiatives.

Project Costs - First, here is an update on project costs:

Projects Approved Budget Actual Costs

Sanctuary 660,000 700,706 Parking Lot Ministry Development * Fundraising and Other Costs

400,000 100,000 40,000

395,975 100,000 39,198

Total Costs 1,200,000 1,235,879

* Through January 31, 2013, we had incurred a total of$16,935 for ministry development costs and the remaining funds will be utilized over the next few years.

As you can see, the projects were very well managed. The parking lot was completed on budget, and the additional costs for the sanctuary were primarily for a planned upgrade in the liturgical furnishings. See separate report from the Sanctuary Team elsewhere in this annual report.

Project Funding - Here is a summary of how these projects were funded:

Funding Sources Original Estimates Current Totals Funds on Hand at Beginning of Projects 200,000 200,364 Imagine Capital Campaign 800,000 660,044 Borrowing * * 200,000 375,471 Total Funding 1,200,000 1,235,879

** The congregation approved borrowing up to a maximum of$250,000. The current balance as of February 10,2013 is a net amount consisting of the current mortgage balance of$513,566 less fund raising proceeds on hand of $138,095 that will be applied to the mortgage.

As this table indicates, funding of the projects was very successful. We were fortunate to have about $200,000 offund on hand at the outset from bequests and other contributions. The Imagine campaign was a great success, and capital pledges and designated giving now total well over $800,000. While we are only just over halfway through our three-year campaign, we are already 83% of the way toward our original goal of $800,000. As we receive the remaining capital commitments over the next year, we should be able to reduce the mortgage to well under the $250,000 level approved by the congregation.

17

REPORT OF THE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM - LOIS VINING, Team Leader

In the past year we continued to expand communications to our members and increased our focus on promoting Ascension in the community. In addition to the newspaper announcements, banners, Ascension's website and Facebook page to promote our activities we had new projects to tackle.

• The electronic bulletin board was added to celebrate programs and special events as well as announce the schedule for the future concerts, speakers, service projects, youth events and special worship services.

• Using direct mail postcards, new residents of Northfield, Glenview, Northbrook, Winnetka and Wilmette were invited to worship at Ascension. In addition to those invitations each month, the lists were used to send invitations to our annual Rally Day Celebration and Advent Concert and Services.

• We greeted new visitors on Sunday morning and welcomed them with Ascension logo coffee mugs and information about our church community and programs.

• We created a New Sign Task Force whose task is to improve visibility ofthe sign on our property.

• Electronic media guidelines were developed for consistent use of authorized photos and approved electronic recording of events.

In the coming year we plan to continue our emphasis on making Ascension better known in the community using methods we can determine are cost effective. We are currently looking into the metrics to evaluate the impact of the work and money invested in the direct mail program in

place.

18

PERFORMING ARTS TEAM - DAVID BURK, Team Leader

Chris Casey, Helen Costello, Chris Forte, Pastor Dennis Kelly, Chris Rude, Minkyoo Shin, Mischa Zupko

The first meeting and formation of the team was on April 15, 2012. It was formed to expand and enhance the current concert series, "One Tree, Many Branches." The team adopted the following as its mission: "The performing arts are a precious treasure and gift given to mankind by God. The tradition of excellence in music and drama has long been a part of Ascension's worship milieu. The concert series is an extension of that excellence and provides various performance media of high caliber for its members and to support Ascension's outreach to the local community and environs."

To cement its identity the team adopted a logo and a template to standardize the printed program. A brochure listing all the concerts for the 2012-13 season was developed and is used for advertising. Other advertising includes flyers distributed locally, fliers for each concert mailed to those on our mailing list (about 150), articles in local new media, and two banners (one on our property and one in downtown Northfield). All this is done with the generous help of our Communications Team.

For our first year it was decided to fund the series with individual donations and an offering at each concert. At this point, it is projected the season will be financially in the black. Plans for the future include talk of selling program advertisements and corporate sponsorships. To keep our outreach philosophy of making the programs available to all, we are avoiding the thought of ticket sales and relying on these other revenue sources.

We were able to achieve our goal of program variety with the concert schedule for the 2012-13 season. These were and are the Knight Caps- an all-male a cappella ensemble -in October, 2012, Christmas/Advent Cantata in December, Minkyoo Shin - organ concert - in February, 2013, Ruiz and Warren - classical guitar duo - in March, Jennifer Armstrong - singer and storytellerin April, and just added to the series is the Chicago Camerata Orchestra in May. The two concerts already given (Knight Caps and Christmas/Advent Cantata) were extremely successful. Attendance the Knight Caps was 319 and at the Christmas/Advent Cantata 228. It is hoped this enthusiasm will continue for the remaining four programs.

Plans for the 2013-14 season (September - May) are beginning to take shape. Jeffrey Zeigler, a cellist with the Kronos Quartet is being approached for a program in September. It is possible he will have as co-artist Glen Koche, drummer with Wilco. October 12 is set with Peder Eide and his trio presenting an afternoon of Christian music. The annual Christmas program in December is yet to be finalized but will happen. We are reaching out to college choirs to see if any of their touring schedules will mesh with our season. The Mastersingers of Chicago are in our minds as well as a jazz pianist and Howard Levy, a famous harmonica player.

19

REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE - February 10,2012

LOIS VINING, Team Leader (2013), Ted Kavadas (2014) and Ken Kosnik (2015)

General

The Audit Committee reviewed the church's operations for the calendar year 2012.

None of the Audit Committee is a certified accounting professional and therefore we cannot state with certainty that Ascension's policies, procedures, and practices conform to generally accepted accounting standards. Suggestions for procedure changes have been made to those impacted and have been documented and sent to the Church Council and the Finance Committee. We are of the opinion that the financial operations and governance of Ascension are conducted in accordance with good management practices and ensure proper stewardship of the assets of the congregation. Specifically:

• The financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2012 appear to fairly represent the actual financial condition and operations of the church for that period given the NotFor-Profit accounting standards utilized by the Church, i.e. cash method of accounting.

• Monthly reconciliations are prepared for receipts, disbursements, expense classification, budget reconciliation, and valuation of non-physical assets

• Accounting records are well organized with supporting documentation and are restricted to appropriate staff and volunteers.

• Disbursements by check are documented with appropriate receipts and have necessary approvals. Contributions are deposited and recorded in a confidential manner and with appropriate checks and balances.

• Records retention appears appropriate and adequately secured. • Ascension uses ACS accounting software to record income and expenses, prepare

monthly and annual financial statements, and produce other reports as necessary to manage financial operations. Access to ACS Applications and data files is restricted commensurate with job responsibilities and is password protected.

• Ant-virus software is in place on all PCs, but is overdue for updating. The network is backed up automatically.

• The mortgage and payment schedule resulting from the Capital Campaign contributions, parking lot replacement and sanctuary renovation has been verified.

• Vendors and contractors for the capital projects were paid according to materials used and labor performed as contracted and with sufficient oversight.

Audit Procedures We performed reviews and tests based on the "Lutheran Church of the Ascension Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual--Annual Audit section" (version February 27, 2007).

Our review and preliminary testing was conducted late in 2012, and concluded in January 2013 once the books were closed. As part of the review processes, we met with and observed paid staff and volunteers executing both manual operations and procedures required by the ACS computer system. Review of files, documents, and processes included income counting,

20

recording, and depositing; expense handling, approvals, and disbursements; records retention; computer system security; and access to sensitive/valuable materials.

The Parking Lot and Sanctuary Renovation expenses, as well as the related Imagine Campaign pledges and receipts, encompassed many different aspects. Financial structure resulting from this activity, including various accounts and subaccounts, was complex. The audit included reviewing various facets of the entire process in order to ascertain if the activities appear to have included sufficient review, approvals, procedures and documentation. In addition the mortgage balance and payment schedule was verified. Overall, the review of these aspects shows that from an audit perspective - actions taken were appropriate.

21

REPORT OF THE ENDOWMENT FUND TRUSTEES Michaela Ward (2/2013), Donna Craven (2/2014), Carol Mueller (2/2015), Kristin Merrill (2/2016), Steve Kollmann (2/2016), Dorothy Kinnard (2/2017), Jill Reid (2/2018)

The year-end balance of the fund stands at $32,872 of which $27,000 represents principal and $5,872 represents accrued interest.

The fund enables members of the congregation to give to the future work of the church through bequests in wills, charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts, assignments of life insurance, transfers of property (i.e., cash, stocks, bonds, and real estate), and memorial gifts. The principal of the fund is to be preserved through safe, secure investments, and only income on the principal is authorized to be disbursed by the trustees. Grants of income from this fund can only be made to worthy Christian causes at the discretion of the fund trustees.

During calendar year 2012, no disbursements were made from the fund. A proposal for disbursements to three local hospice agencies was received in late 2012 and is currently under review by the trustees.

REPORT OF THE CELEBRATION OF LIFE GARDENS TRUSTEES Leroy Botkin (2/2013), Duain Claiborne (2/2013), Fran Gustafson (2/2014), Justyne Reeves (2/2014), Tom Novak (2/2015)

The following interments occurred in 2012: Frank "Ken" Koepke, Elsa J. Krone, Mildred L. Mohrman, and Jarvis R. Peterson.

The balance in the Celebration of Life Gardens fund as of December 31, 2012 was $61,611.42 consisting of the following investments in the ELCA Mission Investment Fund: (1) a money market certificate of deposit that serves as the fund's checking account. Its balance at year end was $5,322.82 and (2) 4 investment certificates of deposit totaling $56,288.60. Income to the fund during 2012 totaled $5,928 and consisted of$5,000 for plot and interment fees from 3 families, $100 in memorial garden contributions and $828 from interest. Disbursements for the year totaled $1,509. This included $765 for engraving fees and $240 for interment ground preparations.

Packets of information about the Memorial Garden are available in the church office or from any trustee.

22

http:56,288.60http:5,322.82http:61,611.42

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE - NANCY NAGEL, Team Leader David Burk, Diane Carlson, Donna Craven, Kathy McCorkle, Marianne Piraro

The following is the result of the Team's search for volunteers to fill vacant positions consistent with the Constitution of the Lutheran Church of the Ascension.

Church Council Three-year term expiring February 2016:

Jessica George

Ted Kavadas

Alice Kosnik

Kurt Vining

Two-year term expiring February 2015:

David Nahrwold

Audit Committee Three-year term expiring February 2016:

Craig Colmar One-year term expiring February 2014

Lois Vining

Memorial Garden Trustees Three-year term expiring February 2016:

Duain Claiborne

John West

Nominating Committee One-year term expiring February 2014:

Nancy Ferguson

Pete Glowacki

Ellen Kollmann

Gail Price

Tom VanAman

David Ward

23

PASTORAL ACTS -2012

Baptisms Emily Gabrielle Vining, Kaitlyn Grace Ward, Elan Hansoo Pattie

Youth Confirmations Carmen Alvarez, Liam Hamilton, Ethan McCune

New Members Munifa Baba, Aaron and Francesca Meder (Michael & Ava); Tiffany Myers (Zachary & Jacob);

Mary and L. Roger Casty (7/8/12-Affirmation); Jim & Marcia Faltinek (from Inactive

11/13/2012)

Funeral, Memorial and Interment Services (Members in italics)

Janet Borja, Elsa Krone, F. Kenneth Koepke, Mildred Mohrman, Jarvis R. Peterson

Death and no service:

Edna Pearson, Charles Young

24

2012 ATTENDANCE AND MEMBERSHIP TRENDS

2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 WORSHIP ATTENDANCE:

Full Year Average 162 151 136 138 130 First Service Average 100 123 112 116 125 Second/Third Service Average * 126 27 24 29 Summer Worship Average 140 121 100 103 100

Full Year Average Worship Attendance as % of Baptized Membership 28.6% 28.1% 24.7% 25.8% 24.3%

Easter Sunday Attendance 264 383 339 402 326 Christmas Eve Attendance 381 477 467 424 366

MEMBERSHIP: Baptisms 6 4 9 1 3 Confirmations 5 7 8 5 3 Members Received 16 18 7 15 8 Members Transferred 26 17 7 21 11 Death of Members 7 7 6 6 4 Moved to Inactive 7 27 0 8 0 Adjustment to Baptized Inventory -66 +10 Baptized Membership 566 537 550 536 535

PASTORAL ACTS: Weddings 0 1 1 0 0 Funerals 8 7 6 6 7

* We had three worship services prior to September 14, 2008, at which time we changed to two services. Since June 4, 2011, we have had a single worship service.

25

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION STATEMENT OF ASSETS, LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCES -- ALL FUNDS (UNAUDITED) As of December 31, 2012

Special General Purpose Property 2012 2011

Fund Funds Fund Totals Totals ASSETS:

Cash and Investments (Note 4) $86,698 $515,960 $0 $602,658 $824,800 Property (Note 5) 0 0 3,618,202 3,618,202 2,632,575 Total Assets $86,698 $515,960 $3,618,202 $4,220,860 $3,457,375

LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCES: Prepaid Giving (Note 6) $21,627 $0 $0 $21,627 $37,705 Accounts Payable 4,370 0 0 4,370 3,900 Long-Term Debt (Note 7) 0 0 515,832 515,832 5,110 Fund Balances 60,701 515,960 3,102,370 3,679,031 3,410,660 Total Liabilities and Fund Balances $86,698 $515,960 $3,618,202 $4,220,860 $3,457,375

The accompanying notes and exhibits are an integral part of these financial statements.

26

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION STATEMENT OF INCOME AND DISBURSEMENTS -- ALL FUNDS (UNAUDITED) For the Year Ended December 31,2012

General Fund

Special Purpose Funds

Property Fund

2012 Totals

2011 Totals

INCOME Pledged Giving $478,618 $0 $0 $478,618 $509,095 Other Giving 75,069 360,885 0 435,954 456,136 Loan Proceeds 0 647,676 0 647,676 5,110 Interest and Other Income 4,536 7,761 0 12,297 14,945

Total Income 558 ,223 1,016,322 0 1,574 ,545 $985,286

DISBURSEMENTS Core Ministries Worship Ministry 123,836 16,355 0 140,191 138,379 Hospitality and Communications 10,313 0 0 10,313 9,326 Faith Development 13,405 0 0 13,405 13,278 Service Ministries and Pastoral Care 45,826 1,201 0 47 ,027 54,199 Family Ministries 55,394 17,052 0 72,446 60,954 Ministry Development 0 11,694 0 11 ,694 1,182

Benevolence Giving Benevolence Giving 56,400 22,731 0 79 ,131 80,133

Support Ministries Care of Facility, including renovation costs 129,329 1,015,536 0 1,144,865 276,635 Mortgage/Construction Loan Payments 15,000 143,728 0 158,728 9,931 Leadership and Administration 101,478 221 0 101 ,699 109,335 Special Purpose Disbursements (Other) 0 1,579 0 1,579 6,235

Total Disbursements 550,982 1,230,097 0 1,781,079 759,587

INCOME OVER (UNDER) DISBURSEMENTS 7,241 (213,775) 0 (206,534) 225,699

TRANSFERS IN (OUT) (5,000) 5,000 0 0 0 PROPERTY ADDITIONS 0 0 985,627 985,627 111 ,054 LONG-TERM DEBT DECREASES (INCREASES) 0 0 (510,722) (510,722) (5 ,110)

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN FUND BALANCES 2,241 (208,775) 474,905 268,371 331 ,643

BEGINNING FUND BALANCES 58,460 724,735 2,627,465 3,410,660 3,079,017

ENDING FUND BALANCES $60,701 $515,960 $3 ,102,370 $3,679,031 $3,410,660

The accompanying notes and exhibits are an integral part of these financial statements.

See Exhibit 1 for detail for the General Fund, Exhibit 2 for the Special Purpose Funds, and Note 5 for the Property Fund.

27

LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION STATEMENT OF INCOME AND DISBURSEMENTS -- GENERAL FUND (UNAUDITED) Budget vs. Actual for 2012 and Proposed Budget for 2013

Proposed Budget Actual 2013 2012 2012 Budget

INCOME Pledged Giving $483,068 $478,618 $444,364 Other Giving 76,500 75,069 110,037 Interest and Other Income 4,000 4,536 4,000 Total Income 563,568 558,223 558,401

DISBURSEMENTS Core Ministries Worship Ministry 123,103 123,836 132,294 Hospitality and Communications 11,765 10,313 8,639 Faith Development 16,110 13,405 13,878 Service Ministries and Pastoral Care 45,897 45,826 46,875 Family Ministries 59,994 55,394 70,950 Ministry Development Costs 27,025 11 ,695 12,750 Ministry Development Funding (27,025) (11,695) (12,750)

Benevolence Giving Benevolence Giving (Synod and ELCA) 56,400 56,400 55,840

Support Ministries Care of Facility 131,321 129,329 119,721 Mortgage/Construction Loan Payments 15,000 15,000 15,000 Leadership and Administration 104,379 101,478 111,927 Total Disbursements 563,968 550,982 575,125

INCOME OVER (UNDER) DISBURSEMENTS (400) 7,241 (16,724)

TRANSFERS IN (OUT) 0 (5,000) 17,000

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN FUND BALANCES (400) 2,241 276

BEGINNING FUND BALANCES 58,460 58,460 60,701

ENDING FUND BALANCES $58,060 $60,701 $60,978

The accompanying notes and exhibits are an integral part of these financial statements.

See Exhibit 1 for financial detail for the General Fund.

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LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION STATEMENT OF INCOME AND DISBURSEMENTS -- SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS (UNAUDITED) For the Year Ended December 31, 2012

Beginning Balance 1/1/2012

Received During 2012

Transfers In (Out)

2012

Disbursed During 2012

Ending Balance

12/31/2012

Interest Included in Receipts

Worship Ministry Funds

Family Ministries Funds

Service Ministry Funds

Leadership/Administration Funds

Designated Benevolence Funds

Memorial Funds

Capital Project Funds

$444

8,547

10,680

104,874

10,007

188,908

401 ,275

$11,303

12,088

698

2,897

21,159

63,623

904,554

$8,000

5,088

0

63,912

2,000

(75 ,000)

1,000

$16,355 $3,392

17,052 8,671

1,201 10,177

11,915 159,768

22,731 10,435

1,579 175,952

1,159,264 147,565

$40

124

158

2,389

154

2,455

2,441

TOTAL Special Purpose Funds $724,735 $1,016,322 $5,000 $1 ,230,097 $515,960 $7,761

The accompanying notes and exhibits are an integral part of these financial statements.

See Exhibit 2 for financial detail for the Special Purpose Funds.

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LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) For the Year Ended December 31,2012

The following footnotes are an integral part of these financial statements:

(1) Fund Accounting - Ascension uses fund accounting to account for its transactions and balances. The following funds are used: - General Fund: The general operating fund of this congregation, which receives and disburses

funds in accordance with the approved General Fund budget. - Special Purpose Funds: Designated for special purposes by the donors or by the Congregation Council:

• Worship Ministry Funds - Support ongoing and one-time programs of the Worship Ministry. • Family Ministries Funds - Support ongoing and one-time programs of the Family Ministries. • Service Ministry Funds - Support ongoing and one-time programs of the Service Ministry. • Ministry Development Funds - Temporary funds used to invest in expanding and improving our ministries. • Leadership/Administration Funds - Support ongoing and one-time programs that are not related to a specific ministry. • Designated Benevolence Funds - Enable members and friends of the congregation to contribute to causes outside the congregation.

• Memorial Funds - Receive contributions in memory of deceased persons and disburse them in accordance with the wishes of the donors or the direction of the Congregation Council. • Capital Project Funds - Designated for property additions or improvements and the related funding. • Property Fund - Account for major property balances, as well as related long-term debt balances

(2) Auxiliary Organizations - Ascension has several auxiliary organizations whose financial decisionmaking is controlled by separate governing bodies. The Endowment Fund and Celebration of Life Gardens Fund are included in Ascension's financial statements because the trustees for these funds have elected to use Ascension's accounting system and investment vehicles (see Special Purpose Funds for details).

(3) Basis of Accounting - Ascension uses the cash basis of accounting to account for income and disbursements. Under this method, income is recorded in the period received, and disbursements are recorded in the period the payments are made. See note (6) for a description of prepaid giving, which is an exception to this method.

(4) Cash and Investments - Ascension pools its cash and investments for all funds, except for the Celebration of Life Gardens Fund. Cash and investments as of December 31,2012 consist of:

Balance Interest Income Pooled Funds:

Petty Cash $18 $0 Checking: Northview Bank 102,879 57 Certificates of Deposit: ELCA Mission Fund 127,994 5,597 lVIoney Market: ELCA Mission Fund 268,881 2,038 Money Market: Northview Bank 17,988 53

Total Pooled Funds 517,760 7,745 Money Market: Thrivent Financial 23,286 195 Celebration of Life Gardens Fund:

Certificates of Deposit: ELCA Mission Fund 56,289 799 Money Market: ELCA Mission Fund 5,323 29

61,612 828 Total Cash and Investments $602,658 $8,768

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED) (continued)

(5) Property - Ascension's property includes land, building and equipment. Property additions and improvements in excess of $5,000 are capitalized at original cost, while smaller amounts are expensed. The original costs , together with current values based upon a 2012 appraisal , as of December 31, 2012 are as follows :

Original Current Cost Value

Church site, bu ilding and improvements $3,339,681 $5,861 ,571 Church organ and pianos 154,900 384,700 Church equipment 123,621 322,038

$3,618,202 $6,568,309

(6) Prepaid Giving - At the end of each calendar year, certain members of Ascension have prepaid their pledged giving for the next calendar year. Such amounts are recorded as Prepaid Giving and not included in the General Fund balance at year-end and are amortized into income in the subsequent year at a rate of one-twelfth per month.

(7) Long-Term Debt - The long-term debt balance of $515,832 as of December 31 , 2012 represents the current balance on a mortgage loan from Thrivent Financial dated August 7, 2012 for use in financing the renovation of the parking lot and sanctuary. The loan has an initial interest rate 3.75% that is adjustable after 5 years .

(8) Compensation and Benefits - Compensation and benefits costs for the various programs and ministries include costs for staff assigned directly to these areas as well as allocations of the pastor's compensation based on his or her current and planned allocation of time. The total amounts allocated to the General Fund are set forth in the table below. See also note (a) to Special Purpose Funds Detail Report on page 37 for additional compensation charged to the Concerts fund.

2012 2012 Proposed Budget Actual 2013 Budget

Compensation: Pastor $88,333 $88,333 $91 ,500 Compensation: Staff 154,127 152,624 176,645 Social Security and Medicare Taxes 25,306 25,542 27,513 Health Insurance: Pastor 12,625 11,314 12,625 Health Insurance: Staff 18,000 15,732 20,000 Retirement Contributions: Staff 3,535 3,535 4,212 Pension Contributions: Pastor 12,222 12,386 12,660

$314,148 $309,466 $345,154

(9) Net Worth - The "Net Worth" or current value of Ascension's assets and liabilities as of December 31 , 2012 is as follows:

Cash and Investments (see Note 4) $602,658 Property (see Note 5) 6,568,309 Prepaid Giving (21 ,627) Accounts Payable (4,370) Long-Term Debt (Note 7) (515,832)

$6,629,138

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EXHIBIT 1: GENERAL FUND DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 1 Budget vs. Actual for 2012 and Proposed Budget for 2013

INCOME

Pledged Giving Non-Pledged Giving New Member Giving Seasonal Giving Non-Member Giving Prior Year Pledged Giving Other (including interest of $1,007 in 2012)

TOTAL INCOME

DISBURSEMENTS

Core Ministries:

WORSHIP MINISTRY Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) Special Music Guest Preachers Guest Organists Guest Musicians Music Supplies and Services Worship/Altar Supplies Altar/Seasonal Flowers

TOTAL

HOSPITALITY AND COMMUNICATIONS Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) Coffee Hour Fellowship Events Publicity

TOTAL

FAITH DEVELOPMENT Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) Adult Forum Adult Education Library-Adult Devotions & "The Lutheran"

TOTAL

SERVICE MINISTRIES AND PASTORAL CARE Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) Health Ministry Hospital Flowers Northfield Assistance Fund A Just Harvest Service Ministry Stephen Ministry Transfers from Service Ministries Funds

TOTAL

2012 Budget

$483,068 45,000

7,000 11,000 10,000 3,500 4,000

563,568

108,253 5,000 1,050

600 2,000 3,200 2,000 1,000

123,103

6,335 1,500

650 3,280

11 ,765

12,670 0

2,500 100 840

16,110

44,997 800 400 300 500 200 350

(1,650} 45,897

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2012 Proposed Actual 2013 Budget

$478,618 $444,364 44,596 81,037

4,332 7,000 14,032 11,000 11,259 10,000

850 1,000 4,536 4,000

558,223 558,401

108,260 117,444 5,051 5,000

875 1,050 150 600

2,250 2,000 4,376 3,200 1,369 2,000 1,505 1,000

123,836 132,294

6,277 6,539 1,083 1,100

115 300 2,838 700

10,313 8,639

12,555 13,078 0 0

274 0 (23) 100 599 700

13,405 13,878

44,825 46,075 · 668 0 217 300 300 300 519 0

58 200 628 0

(1,389) 0 45,826 46,875

EXHIBIT 1: GENERAL FUND DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 2 Budget vs. Actual for 2012 and Proposed Budget for 2013

2012 Budget

FAMILY MINISTRIES Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) 53,694 Children's Ministry 4,000 Vacation Bible School 900 Confirmation 1,000 Youth Nite L YFE 500 Youth Retreats/Camps 200 Youth Leadership 500 Youth Supplies & Subscriptions 200 Youth Service Programs 500 Transfers from Family Ministries Funds (1,500}

2012 Proposed Actual 2013 Budget

50,722 66,450 3,166 3,500

0 0 1,506 1,000

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TOTAL 59,994 55,394 70,950

MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT (a) Worship Ministry 1,500 Hospitality 5,000 Communications 8,900 Stewardship 500 Faith Development 6,775 Family Ministries 2,850 Service Ministries 1,500 Transfers from Ministry Development Funds (27,025)

1,000 2,000 975 0

7,437 9,350 142 0

1,590 1,400 503 0 48 0

(11,695) (12,750) TOTAL 0 0 0

Benevolence Giving

BENEVOLENCE GIVING (b) Synod and ELCA 56,400 56,400 55,840

TOTAL 56,400 56,400 55,840

Support Ministries:

CARE OF FACILITY Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) 4,521 Gas 12,000 Electric 18,000 Water & Sewer 3,000 Care of Grounds 22,000 Janitorial Supplies 2,500 Property Insurance 13,000 Maintenance/ Repairs 32,800 Computer Maintenance/Support 0 Service Contracts (c): - Telephone Service 6,000 - Custodial Services 12,000 - Copier Services 5,500 - Church Information System Services 3,000 - Facilities Inspections & Services 9,000

Transfers from Property Contingency Fund (12,000)

4,467 4,521 8,449 9,000

14,884 15,000 3,639 3,600

18,253 15,000 3,467 3,500

13,431 9,000 24,372 24,200

2,746 2,000

9,288 3,210 11,531 11,000

5,500 5,500 3,100 3,100

10,857 11,090 (4,655) 0

TOTAL 131,321 129,329 119,721

33

EXHIBIT 1: GENERAL FUND DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 3 Budget vs. Actual for 2012 and Proposed Budget for 2013

2012 2012 Proposed Budget Actual 2013 Budget

MORTGAGE/CONSTRUCTION LOAN PAYMENTS (d) Principal 0 0 0 Interest and Fees 15,000 15,000 15,000

TOTAL 15,000 15,000 15,000

LEADERSHIP AND ADMINISTRATION Compensation and Benefits (Note 8) 83,679 82,359 91,047 Worker's Compensation 2,700 794 2,000 Auto and Other Expenses 1,500 1,080 1,200 Payroll Expenses 1,800 2,050 2,100 Copier Fees, Supplies & Maintenance 4,000 5,021 5,000 Supplies 3,500 3,975 3,700 Postage 3,100 2,903 3,080 Other Personnel-Related Costs 500 388 500 Continuing Ed. - Pastor 1,000 713 1,000 Continuing Ed. - Admin. Staff 100 0 0 Council/Delegates 500 1,153 1,000 Stewardship 1,500 557 800 Membership Fees & Other Expenses 300 75 300 Security Sale Expenses 100 154 100 Bank Charges 100 256 100

TOTAL 104,379 101,478 111,927

TOTAL DISBURSEIVIENTS 563,968 550,982 575,125

INCOME OVER (UNDER) DISBURSEMENTS (400) 7,241 (16,724)

TRANSFERS IN (OUT) (5,000) 17,000

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN FUND BALANCE (400) 2,241 276

BEGINNING FUND BALANCE 58,460 58,460 60,701

ENDING FUND BALANCE $58,060 $60,701 $60,978

34

EXHIBIT 1: GENERAL FUND DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 4 Budget vs. Actual for 2012 and Proposed Budget for 2013

(a) As part of Ascension's "Ministry Development" initiative begun in 2010, plans were made to develop our ministries, and funds were set aside for this purpose. Each ministry team submitted plans and related costs for ministry development activities in 2013. These costs will be funded from ministry development funds of which the balance was $84,013 at 12/31/12 (see "Ministry Development Fund" on page 36). The planned activities and estimated costs in 2013 include:

Worship -- Good Friday string quartet (1,000), Easter additional vocalists to augment the choir ($1,000).

Communications -- Google ad ($600), holiday worship ads ($850), banners ($200), Yellow Pages ad ($315), Winnetka Talk subscription ($25), Constant Contact ($200), Miscellaneous ($160), invitation cards ($4,000); Ascension t-shirts ($400); ACS upgrade to allow on line access to a members only membership directory ($1,250); Family Festival banner and invitations ($350) and new media options for members and staff ($1,000).

Faith Development -- adult forum ($400), adult education ($200); adult spiritual retreat

($200); adult leader training ($600).

(b) Ascension has a rich tradition of giving to benevolence causes: Ascension seeks to give a tithe, or 10%, of its General Fund income each year to benevolence

causes. Actual giving for 2012 was 10.1% of income, and giving for 2013 is budgeted at 10%. These amounts are contributed to the Chicago Metropolitan Synod.

In addition, Ascension members contribute additional funds through Ascension to various benevolence causes. In 2012, giving to these causes totaled $22,731 as shown on page 37. As indicated on page 38, designated giving for benevolence causes ranged from $18,933 to $40,993 over the past five years.

Finally, many Ascension members serve as volunteers and make financial contributions to

some of these same causes, such as LSSI and Holy Family.

rc) All fixed contracts have been moved to Service Contracts. This now includes the contract

costs for ACS software maintenance, pest control, copier machine, fire and safety inspections,

HVAC inspections, custodial service, postage meter rental, roof inspection, sprinkler system

winterizing, waste removal and health inspections. The Maintenance and repair line will only

contain variable costs.

(d) The General Fund budget for 2013 includes $15,000 for principal, interest and fees. Actual

mortgage payments will be approximately $45,000 during 2013. The $30,000 additional costs

will be funded from borrowing proceeds, thereby keeping the General Fund impact to a

manageable level.

35

EXHIBIT 2: SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 1 For the Year Ended December 31,2012

Beginning Balance 1/1/2012

Received During 2012

Transfers In (Out)

2012

Disbursed During 2012

Ending Balance

12/31/2012

Interest Included in Recei~ts

WORSHIP MINISTRY FUNDS: MUsic Discretionary Fund $272 $4 $0 $0 $276 $4 Flowers: Altar and Seasonal 0 1,976 0 1,813 163 0 Program Videos 172 0 0 0 172 0 Performing Arts 0 5,284 3,600 6,103 2,781 36 Concerts (a) 0 4,039 4,400 8,439 0 0

Total Worship Ministry Funds 444 11 ,303 8,000 16.355 3,392 40

FAMILY MINISTRIES FUNDS: Children's Library 598 9 0 0 607 9 Vacation Bible School 386 6 0 0 392 6 Family Festival 0 11,964 5,088 17,052 0 0 Youth Discretionary Fund 473 7 0 0 480 7 Youth Events (NTD) 4,169 63 0 0 4,232 63 Youth Events (TO) 181 0 0 0 181 0 Youth Camps/Retreats 220 3 0 0 223 3 Youth Mission Trip 488 7 0 0 495 7 Youth Mission Trip Donations (TO) 87 0 0 0 87 0 Youth Auction TO 523 8 0 0 531 8 Youth Auction NTD 1,422 21 0 0 1,443 21

Total Family Ministries Funds 8,547 12,088 5,088 17,052 8,671 124

SERVICE MINISTRIES FUNDS: Health Discretionary Fund 1,063 15 0 370 708 15 Health Education (NTD) 219 3 0 0 222 3 Health (TO) 681 10 0 0 691 10 Safe Sitter 61 442 0 292 211 2 Support Team 1,001 115 0 74 1,042 15 Stephen Ministries 7,655 113 0 465 7,303 113 Total Service Ministry Funds 10,680 698 0 1,201 10,177 158

LEADERSHIP/ADMIN. FUNDS: Senior Pastor Discretionary Fund 10,055 255 0 54 10,256 147 Ministry Development Fund 24,114 1,681 69,912 11,694 84,013 1,281 Scholarships for Seminary Students 457 7 0 0 464 7 Weddings/Funerals/Baptisms 1,645 25 0 167 1,503 25 Miscellaneous (NTD) 39 0 0 0 39 0 Operating Contingencies Fund 68,564 929 (6,000) 0 63,493 929

Total Leadership/Admin . Funds 104,874 2,897 63,912 11 ,915 159,768 2,389

MEMORIAL FUNDS: Memorial Fund 3,352 193 0 70 3,475 48 Bequests to Ascension 80,999 56,830 (75,000) 0 62,829 907 Sering Memorial Fund 14,492 207 0 0 14,699 207 Celebration of Life Gardens Fund 57,192 5,928 0 1,509 61 ,611 828 Endowment Fund 32,873 465 0 0 33,338 465 Total Memorial Funds 188,908 63,623 (75,000) 1,579 175,952 2,455

36

EXHIBIT 2: SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS DETAIL REPORT (UNAUDITED) -- page 2 For the Year Ended December 31,2012

Beginning Balance 1/1/2012

Received During 2012

Transfers In (Out) 2012

Disbursed During 2012

Ending Balance

12/31/2012

Interest Included in Recei~ts

DESIGNATED BENEVOLENCE FUNDS: Local Hunger 0 1,740 (1,300) 440 0 0

Lakeview Pantry 0 1,136 250 1,386 0 0 A Just Harvest 1,493 1,860 2,100 2,081 3,372 35 Crop Walk 0 200 0 200 0 0 Souper Bowl 0 552 0 550 2 0 Northfield Pantry 0 400 1,050 1,450 0 0

Total Local Hunger 1,493 5,888 2,100 6,107 3,374 35

ELCA World Hunger 0 2,506 0 2,506 0 0 ELCA Disaster Fund 0 4,125 0 3,975 150 0 ELCA Malaria Campaign 0 45 0 45 0 0 Habitat for Humanity 533 2,292 0 2,000 825 11 Family Promise 586 1,399 0 941 1,044 4 Heifer Project International 10 0 0 0 10 0 LWR - Coffee Project 164 304 0 326 142 0 Holy Family 0 1,250 0 1,250 0 0 Global Mission Sponsorship 5 0 0 0 5 0 LSSI 0 400 0 400 0 0 Night Ministry 150 728 0 691 187 3 Bethel New Life 1,536 508 (1,500) 544 0 8 Agape (support for the needy) 754 8 0 300 462 8 Ascension Family Fund 3,652 72 1,500 1,500 3,724 72 Refugee Resettlement (LlRS) 863 1,734 0 2,146 451 13 Sunday Church School Offerings 61 0 0 0 61 0 Miscellaneous Outreach 200 (100) (100) 0 0 0 Total Designated Benevolences 10,007 21,159 2,000 22,731 10,435 154

CAPITAL PROJECT FUNDS: Projects: Parking Lot Renovation 12,544 0 349,091 361,635 0 0 Sanctuary Renovation 0 400 623,592 623,992 0 0 HVAC Replacement 38,166 280 0 24,940 13,506 280 Funding: 0 Fundraising Proceeds 277,849 240,705 (514,575) 3,979 0 Loan Proceeds/Payments 5,542 647,676 (422,381) 143,728 87,109 1,668 Pew Upgrade 6,226 3,900 (10,126) 0 0 0 Legacy Gifts 24,751 2,250 (27,001) 0 0 0 Supplemental Legacy Gifts 0 8,936 0 314 8,622 86 Property Contingency Fund 36,197 407 2,400 4,655 34,349 407

Total Capital Project Funds 401,275 904,554 1,000 1,159,264 147,565 2,441

TOTAL SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS $724,735 $1 ,016,322 $5,000 $1,230,097 $515,960 $7,761

(a) Disbursements from the Concerts fund in 2012 include $6,000 paid to the Directors of Music related to their roles in arranging and conducting the concerts . Under this arrangement, payments of $500 per month began in July 2011 and continued through December 31, 2012. In 2013 these costs are covered by the General Fund Budget.

37

EXHIBIT 3: FIVE-YEAR FINANCIAL TRENDS (UNAUDITED)

INCOME TRENDS

GENERAL FUND INCOME 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Pledged Giving $598,831 $531,908 $535,913 $509,095 $478,618 Giving for Prior Year 350 100 1,750 3,651 850 Non-Pledged Giving 25,490 38,015 23,152 33,045 44,596 New Member Giving 986 8,469 2,560 6,895 4,332 Seasonal Giving 31,740 8,205 12,012 9,577 14,032 Non-member Giving 10,894 17,974 10,188 9,751 11,259 Other (including interest) 7,929 6,175 5,336 3,791 4,536

TOTAL $676,220 $610,846 $590,911 $575,805 $558,223

SPECIAL PURPOSE FUNDS INCOME

Ministry Funds $41,201 $16,834 $17,526 $12,907 $26,986 Designated Benevolence Funds 27,376 23,784 39,655 17,963 21,159 Memorial Funds 28,857 58,323 137,648 10,135 63,623 Capital Project Funds 3,458 4,654 6,008 368,476 904,554

TOTAL $100,892 $103,595 $200,837 $409,481 $1,016,322

ALL FUNDS TOTAL INCOME $777,112 $714,441 $791 ,748 $985,286 $1,574,545

DISBURSEMENT TRENDS

ELCA and Synod Benevolence $72,000 $63,600 $61,200 $61,200 $56,400 Additional Benevolence $33,598 $29,637 $40,993 $18,933 22,731 Total Benevolence Giving 105,598 93,237 102,193 80,133 79,131

Total Disbursements: General Fund $610,724 $609,567 $610,735 $565,355 $550,982 Special Purpose Funds 83,280 55,602 139,368 194,232 1,230,097 All Funds $694,004 $665,169 $750,103 $759,587 $1,781,079

INCOME VS. DISBURSEMENTS TRENDS

Income Over (Under) Disbursements: General Fund $65,496 Special Purpose Funds 17,612 All Funds $83,108

$1,279 47,993

$49,272

($19,824) 61,469

$41,645

$10,450 215,249

$225,699

$7,241 {213 , 775~

($206,534)

ASSET AND LIABILITY TRENDS

Cash and Investments $535,004 $556,502 $590,085 $824,800 $602,658 Property (current value) 6,189,500 6,189,500 6,189,500 6,189,500 6,568,309 Prepaid Giving (42,250) (36,750) (27,200) (37,705) (21,627) Accounts Payable (26,175) (3,901) (5,389) (3,900) (4,370) Long-Term Debt 0 0 0 {5, 110~ {515,832~ Net Worth (Note 8) $6,656,079 $6,705,351 $6,746,996 $6,967,585 $6,629,138

38

The Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Ascension

460 Sunset Ridge Road

Northfield,IL 60093

847 -446-83 35

Please bring your copy of the Annual Report to the

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION

Sunday, March 3,2012 11:15 a.m.

Worship Service -10:00 a.m.

(Special program for children during Annual Meeting)