St. John’s Episcopal Church2018 Annual Meeting Report

July 22, 2018

…We all share in God’s work of calling, forming, sending, and supporting Christians as agents of love, justice, and peace as

shown through the life of Jesus Christ…

St. John’s Episcopal ChurchPO Box 262, 4 Church Street

Essex, NY 12936

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHTABLE OF CONTENTS

JULY 22, 2018

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Agenda

August 27, 2017 Annual Meeting Minutes

Warden’s Report

Rector’s Report

Financial Reports – 2017 Calendar YearTreasurer’s ReportIncome StatementBalance SheetStewardship ReportInvestment Committee Report

Election of Slate of Warden, Officers and Vestry

Written Committee Reports:AcolytesAdirondack Friends of Refugees and ImmigrantsAltar FlowersAltar GuildBuildings and GroundsChalice BearersContemporary Bible Discussion GroupCrucifersGenesis Bible StudyGreeters/UshersHistoryHospitalityMissions Outreach

Missions Committee ReportEcumenical Community Food ShelfLibros Para Los NinosReNew

Meditation GroupMusicNew Testament Study Group

ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

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ANNUAL MEETING AGENDAJULY 22, 2018

Opening Prayer

Call to Order

Approval of Minutes of August 27, 2017 Annual Meeting

Warden’s Report

Rector’ Report

Financial Reports

Election of Warden and Vestry Slate

Committee Reports (Attached)

New Business

Questions and Answers

Closing Prayer

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHDRAFT ANNUAL MEETING MINUTES

AUGUST 27, 2017ST. JOHN’S CHURCH PERSELL HALL

Call to OrderThe meeting was called to order at 11:35 AM. Senior Warden, Dick Perez, opened the meeting with prayer.

Approval of the Minutes of the July 24, 2016 Annual MeetingJeff Moredock moved that the minutes of the 2016 Annual Meeting be approved as presented in the Annual Report. Jim VanHoven seconded the motion. The motion carried.

Warden’s ReportDick Perez, Senior Warden, and Carole Harsh, Junior Warden, prepared the written Warden’s report. Dick noted that the various reports in the current Annual Report clearly indicate that the church has grown in numbers of new members as well as activities, including the expanded Choir Boy Camp. They reflect the way that the Parish as a whole has pulled together to successfully steer the church during the three years without a rector. He said that he found it truly humbling to think about how much has been accomplished and how much everyone has done to make it work. This is thanks to each and every member of our parish.

Treasurer’s ReportAugusta Gladding, Treasurer, reported that this was another very good year for St. John’s and its financial position remains solid despite the fact that our pledges for the year were down somewhat. She reported that our statement of activities undertaken this year, including our amazing outreach, is an outstanding example of the commitment of our parishioners. However, she warned that the 2018 fiscal (calendar) year will be very different because we will have a full-time rector. The Diocese sets the guidelines for the Diocesan assessment, as well as the rector’s financial package. She stated that it will be very helpful to have our new rector working with the Finance Committee as they prepare a fiscally responsible budget for 2018.

Augusta pointed out that pledges are the most predictable source of revenue for the church, and predictable investment income is also important. Finance Committee member, Jim VanHoven, estimated that if every pledge is increased by 10% next year the church will remain financially stable. Bill Finucane noted that in order to keep our finances on an even keel we must cease to be dependent upon a very few major pledges because the loss of one can have a direct negative impact. In closing, Jim pointed out that although our success with the organ fund campaign has been great we need to be sure that this does not negatively impact annual pledging.

Election of Vestry and Warden SlateThe Slate was amended to include the fact that Jan Bedoukian is up for election to a second three-year term. Bill Finucane noted that, in accordance with NY State law, the Clerk to the Vestry and the Treasurer are elected by the Vestry and should not be included on the Slate. The Slate will be revised accordingly in 2018. Katharine Preston moved that the slate be accepted as amended. Jon McBride seconded the motion. The motion carried. Committee and Activities ReportsDick then offered an opportunity to those who wrote these reports to add anything to what they have written in the Annual Report.

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Acolytes – Darcey Hale expressed her hope that others will perform this very important role in our worship service. She thanked Dick Perez for coming forward as the first male acolyte in many years.

Altar Flowers – Lynne said that this important role brings true spiritual meaning into the lives of those who participate in this ministry, and pointed out that giving altar flowers is a perfect way in which to honor someone.

Calendar – Teresa Sayward said that this is always challenging and it is especially difficult to find coffee hour volunteers. She asked for the help of everyone in getting more volunteers.

Chalice Bearers – Bill Finucane said that in this role one works very closely with the Rector and he hopes that others will step forward for this spiritually meaningful participation in the worship service.

Choir Boys – Carole Harsh recapped the success of the camp this year and thanked everyone who participated. She had a Choir Boys Camp slide show running throughout the meeting. She thanked Jennifer Moore for the special role that she played.

Contemporary Bible – Jon McBride noted that this is the 8th year for the program. It brings the Bible to life. He thanked Jim VanHoven for leading this group when he is not here.

Food Shelf – Katharine pointed out that St. John’s participation makes a significant contribution to the success of the Food Shelf in Elizabethtown. Sadly, although we are offering very important support, we are not getting to the root of the problems that too many people in our community face.

Genesis – Claudia pointed out that this is the 13th year for this group, which is ecumenical in nature. They have studied various aspects of the Bible and for the last two years they have been reading and discussing books by various theologians.

Greeters – Rick was not present to talk about this important service, but his report is included. History – Darcey Hale reported that a $1,500 grant was received from the Essex Community

Fund and matched by the church. Nora Nadire has been engaged to organize and digitize the church historical records.

Hospitality – Claudia Caveney thanked all who have made this important means of fellowship after the Sunday service happen. John Bingham also mentioned the Tuesday evening Potluck that has been going for 35 years and is truly ecumenical and the presence of the Monday evening Yoga group that has met in Persell Hall for many years.

Libros Para Los Niños – Jan Bedoukian said that the program will be expanding into Haiti this year and six volunteers will be going on this mission. The program helps teachers to do their jobs better by providing them essential supplies and equipment. As an example, she noted that it takes $3,500 to $5,000 to outfit a science lab.

Meditation – Bobbi Perez recapped her report and noted that this fledging group that started in January has coalesced. They discuss the daily readings as part of their gathering.

Missions – Jan Bedoukian talked about the upcoming Diocesan Missions conference that will be held at CFES and the ways in which the various missions of the church are chosen and supported.

Music – Dean thanked the attendees for their support of the Organ Fund and welcomed Jennifer Moore back as our organist and choir director. The new organ will be installed on Sept. 14th.

New Testament Study – Claudia Caveney and Fr. Craig will be working on a new program that she will introduce in October. It will focus on the four traditions – Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Refugees – The group will continue to work with the Diocese and may get involved in helping refugees who are fleeing into Canada from the United States.

ReNew – Mary Anne was not present but her report tells an eloquent story. Safe Church Policy – Jim VanHoven reported that statistically churches are not always the safe

haven we think they are. Lynn Barrett and Carole Harsh have been working on a policy for St. John’s.

Search – Jon McBride distributed Fr. Craig Hacker’s resume and thanked the Search Committee for their tireless work throughout a lengthy 3-year search, which has finally come to an end. He

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pointed out that now the work for the parish as a whole begins. In the months ahead, our vestry, parishioners and Fr. Craig will get to know each other as they seek ways in which to work together in a positive, productive Christian spirit. He said that our goal was “to find an individual who will effectively lead St. John’s, a person who will inspire us intellectually and theologically, an individual who will help us to grow as a faith community, someone who will see and appreciate us corporately and individually and, most of all, a person whose own deep spirituality will be a model for us all”. The Search Committee is confident that Fr. Craig is all of these. He noted that Fr. Craig and Bp. Love have known each other for some time and have developed a mutually respectful relationship, as have Bill and Jon with the Bishop during the past year or so.

In closing, Jim VanHoven stated that we are a good parish and a good church family. He went on to say that we are what we are because we have Dick and Carole as our leaders. Carole’s 10-year-old grandson Kyle read the closing prayer.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 12:40 PM.

Darcey HaleClerk to the Vestry

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHWARDENS’ REPORT

August 2017 - - July 2018

The highlight of this past year was the arrival on September 7, 2017 of Father Craig and Linda Hacker and their family members, cats Storm and Josie. Several church members were on hand to help them move into the rectory. Beginning with his first service on September 17th and continuing every week since then, the congregation and the community have been blessed by Father Craig and Linda’s presence. Father Craig’s installation service was held on October 7 with Bishop Love officiating and Bishop Ely co-celebrating. Seven of the twelve priests who had served us as interim and supply priests were in attendance as well as many local clergy.

In his ministry to St. John’s and Essex, the spiritual nourishment that we were hungry for has been satisfied many times over with thoughtful homilies, home visits, private spiritual counseling, active engagement in all church activities and meetings and outreach into the community. This annual report reflects many of the new initiatives and growth of our community during this past year. Father Craig’s ministry goes beyond what is recorded here as he has a quiet and loving way of being present to all who need to have the benefit of his active listening and concern. St. John’s is very blessed to have Father Craig and Linda in our parish.

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Sundays: Worship - 9:15am in the summer and 10am in winter followed by coffee hour.Mondays: 8:30am - Morning Prayer.

5:30pm - Essex yoga club in Persell Hall.(All are welcome...no teacher provided, simply folks and their mats.)

Tuesdays: 8:15am – Silent prayer for peace9:30am – Contemporary Bible study.6:00pm - Community potluck supper (all are welcome to bring a dish and share)

Wednesdays: 8:30am – Holy Eucharist Service10am – Genesis class – led by Claudia Caveney5pm – St. John’s meditation group (World Community for Christian Meditation)7pm – (First Wednesday of the month) Veterans Overcoming Wounds

Thursdays: 8:30am Morning prayer.10:30am (fall and winter) Bible study class led by Claudia Caveney3:45PM (Third Thursdays) Vestry meeting

Fridays: 8:30am – Morning Prayer6pm – St. John’s Supper Club

SPECIAL EVENTS

Thanksgiving Day service; Lessons and Carols during Advent; Christmas Eve service and meal; Christmas Day service; Shrove Tuesday pancake supper; St. Patrick’s Day dinner for the

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community; Spring Adopt-A-Highway Clean-up Day, Armenian coffee hour to honor victims of 1915 genocide; Lenten services on Ash Wednesday; Holy Thursday; Keeping of the Hours; Good Friday service; Ecumenical Sunrise Service; Easter service and brunch; Mother’s Day and Father’s Day brunches for the community; Memorial Day service; annual church party at Westport Yacht Club; July 4 Patriotic hymn sing; Evensong and Sunday brunch during choir camp.

OUR WIDER CHURCH

Our priest and parishioners are active in both the Vermont and Albany dioceses with participation in the Vermont Diocese Alleluia golf tournament; attendance at the November Vermont convention by two church members; safe church trainings in Vermont and at Albany convention; attendance in June at 150th Albany diocese convention by seven church members; hosting in Essex the annual mission conference of the Albany diocese; visit to St. Mary’s Convent at the Spiritual Life Center to explore ways to bring their spiritual practices to Essex; return visits to Essex by Mother Miriam; attendance by Father Craig at diocesan trainings; vestry planning sessions with Canon Lynn Bates of Vermont diocese; and Holy Listening session to provide input to the Vermont diocese as they begin to search for the bishop to follow Bishop Ely after his retirement.

LOCAL OUTREACH

Father Craig has been visible in the community as he participated in ecumenical worship services at Thanksgiving and Lent and Easter; attended local clergy association meetings; provided leadership with four parishioners and other church leaders at Vacation Bible School; attended the annual Veteran’s Day dinner and blessed animals wherever he finds them.

At Christmas a generous donation of hats and mittens was made to Families First. Membersof St. John’s provide leadership and technical support to Adirondack Friends of Refugees and Immigrants, along with members of other churches and other interested citizens.

During Advent, the St. John’s meditation group offered a mini-retreat to the community. An Ecumenical retreat is being planned by and for the community focusing on prayer and spiritual direction. Lessons and Carols always brings members of the wider community to St. John’s. Christmas in Essex included a concert and visit from Santa at St. John’s. The dedication concert for our new organ in February drew a large crowd for the concert and reception. A Thanksgiving Day service was held in November and a Memorial Day service was held at the end of May. Several meals were offered to the community: Shrove Tuesday pancake supper, brunches or receptions on Christmas Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, Mother’s and Father’s days.

Bobbi Perez has provided Sunday school when children arrive for the service. Youth acolytes are given a bag of treats, poems and prayers when they serve at morning worship.

Publicity of all activities has been greatly enhanced by posters created for events, as well as up-to-date information added to the website by Rose Kaszuba. Father Craig has worked weekly with Carole Harsh and Laura Steenburg to create information-packed Quick News digital

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newsletters. More than 140 recipients of this weekly publication have been able to keep informed about life at St. John’s from any location. Hard copies are printed for local distribution as well. Jim Shepherd has created visitor cards and calendars for guests and members to keep informed of St. John’s activities and mission.

NEW ACTIVITIES

As mentioned earlier, Morning Prayer on three weekdays and Wednesday Morning Eucharist arenew activities started in early 2018.

Other initiatives included: a bulletin insert for weekly announcements; LARGE print bulletins; an overhaul of our website and inclusion of current events (by Rose Kaszuba); an active campaign to raise money for a new organ; a stewardship campaign that included personal contacts; approval of a Safe Church policy; a Halloween presence by Father Craig with candy for 40 children; a potluck style coffee hour; moving of the sacred furniture closer to the altar; initiation of a Veteran’s Overcoming Wounds meeting; inclusion of children trained as acolytes and active participants in the worship service; themed potluck dinners to highlight Lenten discussions, celebrate ReNew and the choir boys and to extend our hospitality to the community; during Lent, keeping the hours between Maundy Thursday and Good Friday; home visits to bring communion to shut-ins by trained laity as well as Father Craig; formulation of an emergency response policy for the church.

NEW PROJECTS

The biggest project was the purchase of a new organ (see Music section). A banner to represent our church was designed for the 150th Albany Diocese Convention (by Reagan Monarch) and will remain on display in the sanctuary. Other projects/purchases included a new stove and a new dishwasher for kitchen of Persell Hall and new toilet for Persell Hall; review and repair of the electrical system in the sanctuary; roof/hatch installed over compressor on back wall of office. Rectory upgrades included repair and painting of deck and porch steps; replacing smoke detectors; repainting kitchen; replacing sump pump in rectory cellar; and extermination of pests. Exterior upgrades included correction of information on signboard; new Episcopal flag; handicapped parking area designations; and beginning of plans for upgrade of the Sherman garden with a contribution from the family.

HISTORY

Linda Hacker and Darcey Hale continue to organize church historical records. Thanks to our grant from the Essex Community Fund, and the support of the church, Craig Cummings is transcribing records from its inception and putting them into digital format. Under Jan Bedoukian’s leadership the inventory of furniture, furnishings, altar hangings and vestments has been digitized and photographed. The earliest vestry book has been restored.

MUSICIn May of 2017 a fund drive commenced with a very significant contribution from Tilly and Dick Close with the goal of purchasing a new organ for St. John’s. With an outpouring of love

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and generosity from friends and members of St. John’s and the work of a very spirited committee of Dean Caveney, Jim Van Hoven and Jon McBride, this project was completed in record time. The new Allen organ was purchased and installed in time for the first service at St. John’s by Father Craig Hacker on September 17, 2017. A dedication concert was held on February 11, 2018, with organist Vaughn Watson showing the many beautiful musical capabilities of our new instrument. A plaque was placed on the wall opposite the organ on that day with the names of the many donors to the organ fund.

Jennifer Moore continues to be our organist, and on the rare occasions when she is not available,Linda Hacker has played the piano for worship services. What a blessing to have both of them.Dean Caveney continues as Music Director and enriches our worship with beautiful anthems chosen for our choir, as well as music for special services such as the organ dedication concert; lessons and carols; the annual patriotic hymn sing; and music for special church holidays.

UPDATED CHURCH DIRECTORY

A new directory is in the works and will be published in late summer or early autumn. Those who wish to be included are asked to make sure that Darcey Hale is given their correct information.

EDUCATION

Bible Study classes are held on Thursdays at 10:30am during the fall and winter. The most recent Thursday class under the leadership of Claudia Caveney studied the New Testament using The New Testament: a Historical Introduction to the Early Writings by Dr. Bart. D. Ehrman. All year long the contemporary Bible study is held at 9:30am on Tuesday mornings, led by Jim Van Hoven, Jeff Moredock, Jon McBride and Father Craig. Genesis class meets at 10am on Wednesday mornings, led by Claudia Caveney. Beginning on Thursdays at 9:30 am in July, 2018 a class in healing prayer will be led by Lyn Barrett using the book Stretch out Your Hand: Exploring Healing Prayer by Norberg and Webber.

MISSIONS

In continuation of our emphasis on local, national and international missions, the following projects continued to be supported by the parish: ReNew and the food shelf provide assistance to families in our local area; the annual choir camp for the Ashmont Boys’ choir is our national mission and Libros Para Los Niños is our international mission.

ReNew and the food shelf continue to help meet the needs of local individuals and families. ReNew supplies grants to meet the needs that are not covered by other agencies, and the food shelf distributes food to families and individuals from the food bank in Elizabethtown. This year ReNew celebrates ten years of service to the community. A special fundraiser will be a brunch at the Pink Pig on July 15.

We are looking forward to the August 1 arrival of the choirboys from All Saints Ashmont. This will be the 6th annual choir camp and will include an afternoon with Bishop Ely, time for

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recreation, a meal and Compline. This initiative is funded by donations from St. John’s and in kind contributions of members.

Other charitable causes involving St. John’s include: annual contributions from the Genesis study group to support the tuition of a student at the Sega school in Zambia, Africa; donations of hats, scarves and gloves at Christmas for Families First; donations of Christmas food baskets for the food shelf; a new initiative in 2016, Adirondack Friends of Refugees and Immigrants, had a very active year with a rally in support of DACA “dreamers” in October; a visit that same month to a worship service with Anglican bishops in Canada in support of immigrants to that nation; and two fundraisers this spring: “Tea and Thee” in Essex and an informational meeting at the Whallonsburg Grange to raise money for Plattsburgh Cares.

MISSION CONFERENCE

On September 23rd, St. John’s hosted the annual Mission Conference for the Albany Diocese in Essex at the conference center of College For Every Student. A very active mission committee headed by Jan Bedoukian planned the day with speakers, displays, and films representing all parts of the diocese. Host families from the parish provided meals, lodging and hospitality. Father Craig had an opportunity to welcome participants and connect with many parishes throughout our diocese. This was a very well received event and helped St. John’s become known among other parishes near and far. SPECIAL SERVICES

One baptism and two memorial services were held at St. John’s between August 1, 2017, and July 31, 2018.

All in all, this was a very active year, supported by the initiative, faithfulness, and concern of a vibrant St. John’s congregation rejoicing in the leadership and example of Father Craig Hacker. God is good!

Submitted by,Dick Perez, Sr. WardenCarole Harsh, Jr. Warden

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHRECTOR’S REPORT

2017 - 2018

The community that comprises St. John’s is a spiritually diverse, deeply compassionate and dedicated group of faithful individuals. It is an honor and a privilege to serve and represent St. John’s as your Rector. I am especially impressed by the depth of the leadership skills and knowledge shown throughout the community. This is quite remarkable considering the fact that St. John’s is a small, yet thriving rural church.

Since September 2017, until the present, we have celebrated one baptism, conducted two memorial services, and had an increase in our Average Sunday Attendance. We have instituted a children’s acolyte program. Additionally, our faith community has gathered for Friday night potluck suppers, and celebrated St. Patrick’s Day, Father’s and Mother’s Days, Christmas and Easter together. The St John’s Annual Party was held at the Westport Yacht Club and was a great success.

I am deeply impressed and moved by the generosity of the St. John’s Community. We support one another, in time and talent, through a variety of ministries and missions, both internationally and locally. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for the wonderful and supportive community that you have been to Linda and me as we settle into our first year in Essex.

Respectfully Submitted

Rev. Craig A. HackerRector

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHFINANCIAL REPORTS

Treasurer’s Report 2018

First and foremost, a huge vote of appreciation goes to Augusta Gladding for her many years of service as the Treasurer of St. John’s. Her attentive oversight, as well as her wise counsel and guidance to the vestry and the parish, kept the church financially stable throughout the years without a rector. Thank you Augusta!!

As was true for past three years, the church’s financial condition improved in 2017, the result of not having to support the salary and benefits of a rector for a full year. (Father Craig began his ministry here in October.) The result was a net increase in operating income of about $35,000. This was the last year this situation existed, and the Vestry again took advantage of it to sequester these funds in an operating reserve for future use when a full time rector is appointed, and to make certain physical plant improvements.

The current year (2018) is presenting a different financial picture since our rector is now here on a permanent basis. Expenses have risen accordingly. The good news is that revenues from pledges have also increased substantially from the previous year (See Stewardship report.) At present we are projecting a very modest negative balance between expenses and revenues – and will cover that with funds from the operating reserve set aside in previous years. As we go forward our expenses will continue to grow as the church institutes new programs to serve our congregation and the broader community. The challenge will be to increase our revenues to keep pace with this growth. Projections for 2019 are already showing this challenge will be substantial. The operating reserve that was set aside will help but it is finite.

The church enjoys having substantial financial reserves in addition to the operating reserve. Some are earmarked for future capital projects; most of the rest to produce investment income. It is also advantageous to have such funds available for unanticipated emergencies if needed.

It is important to note that no funds are included in the operating budget for Outreach or missions work – ReNew, the Choir Boys, Los Niños, the food shelf, etc. These programs are for the most part supported by restricted donations. The Vestry also appropriates some church funds occasionally for these purposes upon the recommendation of the Missions Committee.

Respectfully SubmittedJames B. Van Hoven, Treasurer

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Statement of Financial Condition 2018

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Statement of Activities

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Stewardship 2018

2018 was a very good year for Stewardship.

This year we received 46 pledges totaling $135,466 – a significant increase in both participation (up 14%) and amount pledged from last year (up 20%) when 38 donors pledged $112,827. Pledges ranged in size from $50 to $20,000. The average pledge was $4105, up from $2970. This substantial increase can be attributed to three factors: the successful completion of our search for a new rector and our collective positive impression of Father Craig, the effort of the Stewardship Committee and Vestry members to personally contact as many church attendees as possible, and the public statement that we hoped each current donor would increase his/her pledge by 10%.

The distribution of donors was as follows:

Gift Size 2018 2017 2016 2015

$10,000+ 4 3 4 4

$5,000-$9,999 1 2 2 2

$2,500-$4,999 14 11 12 12

$1,000-$2,499 15 11 11 9

$500-$999 7 6 5 7

Under $500 5 6 4 4

Total 46 38 38 38

Total Pledged $135,466 $112,877 $132,710

In addition, a special committee solicited funds to purchase the new organ so that it would not be necessary to tap into existing cash reserves. A total of 46 donors contributed $58,411, more than enough to cover the cost of the organ.

Respectfully submitted:

Stewardship CommitteeRichard WalkerDaphne HallowellJames Van Hoven

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Investment CommitteeThe Investment Committee members met twice in 2017 to address the investment needs of our parish. The committee recommended a plan, which the Vestry adopted, to gradually draw down some of St. John's funds invested in the Albany Diocesan Investment Trust (ADIT).

Augusta Gladding, ChairFr. Craig HackerCarole HarshJon McBride

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

ELECTION OF WARDEN AND VESTRY SLATE

JULY 22, 2018

To Be Elected

For a 2-year term as Senior Warden Dick Perez

For a 3-year term as Vestry Augusta Gladding

Dean Caveney

Ongoing

Junior Warden: Carole Harsh

Ongoing Vestry: Jan Bedoukian

Bill Finucane

Teresa Sayward

Jim VanHoven

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ST. JOHN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCHCOMMITTEE REPORTS

AcolyteThis was a very exciting year for the acolyte program at St. John’s with several remarkable innovations. Senior Warden, Dick Perez, joined our four longstanding women acolytes, and assumed his new role with grace and dignity. Not long thereafter our organist and choir director Jennifer Moore identified two local school children as potential acolytes and introduced them to Fr. Craig. Since then Gavin Coonrod and Katlyn Feimann have grown into their roles beautifully. They take their responsibilities very seriously and arrive every Sunday ready to put on their robes and assume their many duties.

With the addition of children as acolytes the roles of acolyte, crucifer and chalice bearer have been redefined. The acolytes have been assigned some of the very important responsibilities that were formerly covered by the chalice bearer and adult acolyte. Gavin and Katlyn light the altar candles, ring the bell before and after the service, process behind the crucifer carrying torches as part of the processional and recessional, do the same thing when the Gospel is being processed, assist Fr. Craig in the preparations before Communion and after it is administered, and extinguish the altar candles and ring the bell at the end of the service. It has been a great joy to have them with us.

Darcey Hale, Leader

Adirondack Friends of Refugees and ImmigrantsWebsite – A complete listing of our objectives and activities is available on our website at adirondack-friends-of-reugees.com, that was created and is now managed by St. John’s member Laura Steenburg. The website also includes links to the Plattsburgh Cares website and to another activist group in the Keene Valley/Lake Placid area.

Cooperation with Plattsburgh Cares – Realizing the need to assist not only vetted refugees locally, but also undocumented immigrants desperately fleeing to Canada for asylum, we’ve aligned with Plattsburgh Cares and have now contributed nearly $700 to their work.

Advocacy – Much of our energy and concern is focused in our public presentations and demonstrations, which have included a 2016 rally at the Underground Railroad Museum in Keeseville and additional public information sessions in the community on refugee legal and resettlement concerns, In October 2017 we sponsored a rally on the lawn of the government buildings in Elizabethtown to bring attention to the problems of over 700,000 DACA students and workers, exempt earlier from deportation, but in the new administration about to lose their opportunities to study and work in this country. Along the way we’ve traveled to Canada to meet with advocacy groups there, while four of our members this month demonstrated in Plattsburgh against the Trump policy of separating immigrant children from their deported parents.

In June of this year we sponsored two very well attended public events: 1) Tea and Thee, which included a luncheon at the church and a garden tour to raise money to sustain our organization,

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and 2) Asylum Seekers – Film and Speakers at the Grange that was very well attended and raised over $450 for Plattsburgh Cares, our partner organization that provides humanitarian and legal assistance for undocumented immigrants seeking asylum in Canada across the border north of Plattsburgh.

Days Away – Working with vetted refugees settled in the Burlington area, we welcomed fifteen Nepalese refugees to a 2016 afternoon of relaxation and sharing of ethnic foods, dances, and songs at Camp Normandy in Westport. We will now host another Day Away on July 20 at member Bobbi Perez’s home on Willsboro Bay that will include swimming, boating, mountain climbing, and lunch for fifteen Nepalese refugees and fifteen of our members as hosts.

Membership/Organization – This year we’ve added four new members to our steering committee who have contributed their skills to both new projects and continuing activities. Also, St. John’s member Lyn Barrett led an effort to more fully define our purpose and objectives as we move forward in growing and broadening the work of our organization.

Finances – This year we received a welcome contribution of $500 to our organization from the St. John’s Mission Committee. We’ve used these funds to support our service programs and fundraising activities that have successfully maintained our own current fund balance for additional programming at $446.61 while allowing us to donate $680 to the work of Plattsburgh Cares, effectively doubling the Vestry donation to over $1,000 in activities supporting the refugees and immigrants we serve.

Steering CommitteeRobert Harsh, ChairLyn BarrettJoseph KoehringBobbie Perez Cynthia Poppino Vivian Reiner Jim Shepherd Lynn Shepherd Carole Slatkin Laura SteenburgMonique Weston

Altar FlowersPreparing the altar for Sunday worship involves a variety of special duties that are performed by the altar guild. The final "touch" is the addition of flowers. A few volunteers generally provide St. John’s high altar flowers. We would like to encourage our parishioners to consider giving flowers in remembrance of a loved one, or in recognition of someone important in their lives. The "Flower Guild" always welcomes parishioners who wish to be part of this rewarding ministry of giving flowers to the altar.

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These flowers are symbols of the Resurrection and add beauty to the setting. This summer, as in previous years, we have enjoyed the lovely arrangements provided by summer members. Lately "Boquet Valley Flowers" has been asked to decorate the altar for Christmas, Easter, andMemorial Day. The arrangements have certainly enhanced "glory" in our worship! 

Lynne Goepper, Chair

Altar GuildI would like to thank all who have helped with this very important service now and in the past. Our committee continues to see that all the details that go into making our church beautiful for Sunday worship are taken care of. We change the colors in the church in accordance with the church calendar, make sure that linens are properly taken care of and oversee replenishing supplies, and replacing linens, altar hangings and vestments, as needed. Each week a different Altar Guild member comes into the church, usually the evening before the Sunday service, and sets the altar, prepares the gifts, and lays out the offertory plates and Bulletins. It is this committee’s responsibility to see that all is in proper order for the service.

Kalora Finucane, Chair

Buildings and GroundsThe B&G committee at St John’s is happy to report that the Church and Rectory continue to remain in good condition, look terrific and are well taken care of, thanks to our many volunteers and contract maintenance workers. Thank you all.

What we have been doing - This year the Building and Grounds committee (Dick, Harold, Dean and Lou) completed several projects around the Rectory and the church, which are identified in the Warden’s Report. These projects included a few capital purchases such as a new dishwasher for Purcell Hall and additional fire extinguishers for the rectory and the church. Most of the projects were routine maintenance and were done in-house.

The short range plan - There are two projects coming up, scraping and painting various areas of the church exterior and resetting some of the patio stones. Planning is underway for both of these projects. We’re hoping to do the painting in-house (volunteers welcome) and we’ve been receiving competitive bids for the patio work.

The long-range plan - We continue to monitor the condition of the church and rectory, and perform routine maintenance where needed. There are many small energy efficient measures that are considered with new projects. The last energy audit was done in 2014 and listed primarily minor projects, which have been completed. We combine bids for fuel with other local churches and have been receiving great deals on both heating oil and propane over the past few years. This 2018-2019 heating season supply contract has been awarded to Avery Energy. There hasn’t been a formal structural evaluation performed for some time but the church and rectory are visually evaluated on an ongoing basis and all appears well.

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Funding - The capital campaign of several years ago has been used for the office renovation, heating/cooling units and the repair of the bell tower supports as well as some electrical upgrades. Money remains in that account as a reserve. Routine maintenance is a budget line item and is used on an as-need basis with vestry approval.

Dick Perez, Chair

Chalice BearerThe role of the chalice bearer, along with that of the acolyte and crucifer, has been redefined. The chalice bearer’s primary role is now to administer to the communicants the wine that has been blessed by the priest. This is a very sacred role, one that brings him or her into a special and deeply meaningful relationship with each individual to whom he is administering the wine. Each time that the chalice bearer says, “The blood of Christ, the cup of salvation” both he and the recipient are brought closer to Christ, and their lives as children of Christ are nurtured and continue to grow.

Bill Finucane, Leader

Contemporary Bible Discussion GroupContemporary Bible Study began about ten years ago under the leadership of Jon McBride. At the weekly meeting (all are welcome) those attending discuss the lectionary readings for the following Sunday with the aims of acquiring deeper understanding and relating them directly to participants’ everyday experiences and events in the broader culture. Meetings are held in Persell Hall at 9:30AM on Tuesdays and generally last an hour.

Jon chairs the meetings when he is in Essex during the summer. During the past two years Jim Van Hoven has chaired the meetings during the fall, winter and spring months. Several individuals have stepped up, including Craig Hacker, Carole Harsh and Jeff Moredock when Jim has not been available.

Attendance this year has ranged from a high of twelve during the summer months to a low of three in mid-winter. Average attendance is about six.

Jim VanHoven, Jon McBride, Leaders

CruciferAs the result of having children act as acolytes there is now a specific crucifer role. The former adult acolytes are no longer serving as acolytes, but have assumed the specific role of crucifer. They are now responsible for carrying the cross during the processional, recessional and the processing of the Gospel. They are also responsible for assisting the acolytes, when it is needed.

Claudia Caveney, Darcey Hale, Linda Rockefeller and Teresa Sayward are to be commended for their loyal participation in the Sunday Service as acolytes for many years, and now transition

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in to the position of crucifer. Dick Perez has joined their ranks, and it is wonderful to have a man as part of the group. Each crucifer carries the cross with the reverence and dignity that helps us to bring focus to the beauty and deep meaning of the service as it unfolds before us.

Darcey Hale, Leader

Genesis Bible StudyThe Gospel of Matthew tells us the words of Jesus concerning the power of praying in a group: “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matt. 18:20)

The integration of prayer and Bible study has been an important and ongoing program at St. John’s for the past 14 years. It is comprised of women from many different religious backgrounds – Episcopal, Protestant, Roman Catholic, and the Judaic tradition. The studies engaged in over the years included a focus on the Old and New Testament, exploration of the five great world religions - Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and the reading of various books that dealt with religious and spiritual issues.

During this upcoming year, the members of this Bible study group will embark on an extensive and in-depth study of the Hebrew Bible also known to Christians as the Old Testament. The Hebrew Bible has been for thousands of years, the most important literary and religious work in the world, and foundational to all three Abrahamic religions - Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Examining the Hebrew Bible in the context of the history in which it was written, allows us to understand how truly powerful these biblical narratives are.

Genesis has always provided its participants a safe place to share commonalities, concerns and differences in a respectful atmosphere. The objective is to contemplate the fundamental tenets of our faith in God through education and to gain a better understanding of God through His Word.

Claudia Caveney, Leader

Greeters/UshersThe greeter/usher crew continues to soldier on.  We welcome both men and women who have an interest in joining us in order to include more of our church family.  Should you have an interest in helping out, please contact Father Craig or me. There will be a short course in ushering "101" as a quick refresher for the current ushers, as well as a tutorial for new volunteers.

Rick Rockefeller, Chair

HistoryWe continue to move forward in our efforts to organize the church records, ensure that they are properly cared for, and digitize them. Fortunately, we have been able to house them in the Willsboro School where there is wonderful space in which to work. Linda Hacker has done an outstanding job of organizing everything, which was a huge endeavor. Much to our disappointment Nora Nadire was not able to work on the digitization but we were blessed that Craig Cummings, husband of our accountant Teresa Cummings, has undertaken this project. He has finished digitizing the very earliest vestry records and is now working on the second volume.

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In the meantime Jan Bedoukian has digitized the inventory of the contents, furniture, furnishings, altar hangings and vestments of the church and has photographed these. All of this is very time consuming but is absolutely fascinating to those of us who have been involved. We hope to begin sharing our findings with our parishioners in the near future.

Darcey Hale, Church Historian

Hospitality“See you at coffee hour,” is a familiar greeting heard at St. John’s each Sunday morning when we gather in Persell Hall for fellowship and conversation following each service. Hospitality also hosts fabulous and well attended Christmas and Easter brunches during the year. Each summer, Hospitality and generous volunteers from our congregation provide and serve wonderful lunches to the choirboys from All Saints, Ashmont during our 3-day summer choir camp at St. John’s.In the winter of 2017, our coffee hour took on a new “flavor.” A potluck theme was instituted on Sunday mornings. The person or team in charge of that day is responsible to have the coffee ready, and be in charge of cleanup. Thank you to the many volunteers who have so generously contributed food offerings each week. This technique has so far been very successful.

Claudia Caveney, Chair

Missions OutreachOn September 23, 2017 St. John’s Church hosted the Albany Diocesan Mission Conference. The theme of the conference “Be the light. Let it Shine,” reflected the great work that the Albany Diocesan Mission teams do throughout the world. There were 64 attendees. The feedback from Bishop Love was that St. John’s Mission Conference was outstanding.

For 2018 the Missions Committee received grant requests from Choir Boys, Champlain Valley Friends of Refugees and Immigrants (Adirondack Friends of Refugees and Immigrants), Protestant Campus Ministry, and Libros Para Los Niños. The Missions Committee voted to recommend to the vestry that a total $6,000 be awarded to these missions. The Committee received the requested funding.

Janice Summers Bedoukian, Chair

Libros Para Los NiñosIn 2017 Libros Para Los Niños made its eleventh mission trip to the Dominican Republic. After receiving requests for aid from the Episcopal schools in Haiti, Libros added Haiti to our itinerary. The team traveled over 900 miles and worked with ten schools in the two countries. The traveling team was composed of Sue Armstrong, Sandy Trombley, Bobbi Perez, Wendy Susi, Julie Wever and Jan Bedoukian.

This year Libros Para Los Niños was the recipient of a Stewart’s Holiday Match grant. The funds of this grant had to be spent locally. Libros contributed to the publishing of a children’s book on the life of Harriet Tubman.

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From July 14 to July 19, Libros Para Los Niños hosted the Ven. Padre Antonio García and his wife Iris. Over the past ten years the Libros team has worked very closely with Fr. Tony, as he is affectionately known throughout the Dominican Republic. Fr. Tony has been our mentor and spiritual guide and has directed us to the neediest of schools.

Janice Summers Bedoukian, Leader

Ecumenical Community Food ShelfSt. John’s continues to be a vital supporter of the Community Food Shelf in Elizabethtown. Our support is manifested in two ways: through generous donations of money and through the weekly delivery by volunteers from the parish of the fresh vegetable share from Full and By Farm during the summer/fall season for distribution to the clients.

Cash donations make it possible to purchase food from the Regional Food Bank in Albany where the prices of the food ordered once a month are significantly lower than in our surrounding stores. This is why we encourage cash donations over simple donations of food. Donations of feminine hygiene items and other toiletries, on the other hand, are very welcomed, as they are expensive and cannot be purchased from the Food Bank.

The fresh vegetables from Full and By Farm are a welcomed addition for people who are not able to maintain a garden of their own. They help to bring good nutrition to children who, during the summer, are often without the free lunches provided during the school year. There are some summer lunch programs – but they start after a hiatus of a couple of weeks. To try to bridge that gap, just last month, the Food Shelf prepared 34 boxes to go to families identified by the school that could use help. As it turned out – not all of those families could access the boxes – but the effort to organize, buy, pack and deliver was not lost, as those that did not go to those families went to other needy folks – seniors and families identified by other support groups in our area.

About 1100 individuals were served in 2017. These people are the elderly on small fixed incomes, the disabled and many families where the salaries of those working are simply not sufficient to keep food on the table. Volunteers have noticed a small increase in younger folks – usually parents with small children at home. These people are our neighbors. As the government tries to save money by cutting programs – it is on their backs.

We pray that the Farm Bill that emerges from the Congressional Conference committee does not cut the SNAP (food stamp) program that is so vital to many of the clients that we serve. 15% of the people in this Congressional District rely on SNAP. By far the majority of these people work – some at multiple jobs. But making ends meet is very hard.

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We are often oblivious to the depth of the poverty right down the street from us. I encourage members of the parish to occasionally volunteer at the Food Shelf (Monday or Thursdays, 5-7) as a way to gain more understanding of the struggles people face, and the programs that are so vital to their lives.

Katharine Preston, Chair

ReNewReNew, for the tenth year, reports again that it’s mission to provide hope and financial aid to the needy in Willsboro, Westport and Essex has been achieved. All requests for financial and non-financial aid have been addressed in a timely manner. ReNew thanks all of its volunteers for their faithful service to our community outreach mission.

Mary Anne Schultz, Chair

ReNew Financial Statement-see below-

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MeditationThe St. John's chapter of the World Community for Christian Meditation is averaging 10 persons weekly in attendance as we meet for 20 minutes of meditation followed by a unique form of scripture discernment called Lectio Divina. Fr. Craig, Lyn Barrett and I have been commissioned to help design a local ecumenical prayer retreat with meditation being one of the key elements..."be still and know that I am God".

Thank you to St. John's faith community for a place to welcome all those persons seeking to find our God within.

Bobbi Perez, Leader

MusicIn the fall of 2018 we replaced our 35-year-old organ with a new Allen three manual, 38-stop organ. The new organ delivers improved sound and the flexibility of nine organ specifications in one console. In February of this year Vaughn Watson gave a dedicatory recital.

The Service Music is changed several times during the year. The psalm is chanted using a variety of tunes and settings. On Sundays the St. John’s choir sings a Communion Anthem performing music by composers from the Fifteenth to the Twentieth century. In December, our choir, with the assistance of some extra singers presented A Festival of Lessons and Carols in the style of King’s College, England.

Dean Caveney, Leader

New Testament StudyAs part of the Christian education ministry at St. John’s, a program entitled, “A Historical Introduction to the New Testament Writings,” was offered this past winter and spring. This study entailed an extensive and comprehensive look at the 27 books contained in the New Testament, the rise of the early Christian church and the formation of our Christian canon of scripture. Our goal was to better understand the emergence of Christianity in its own historical context and to gain a fuller appreciation of the struggles and diversity that these early Christians experienced.

The study examined the life and ministry of Jesus through the traditions of the four Gospels, enabling one to recognize the different perspectives that each gospel author had about Jesus – his life, ministry, death and resurrection. We also engaged in a comparative study of the three Synoptic Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke to discover the different sources these authors used. The course continued with a study of the spread of Christianity as written in the Acts of the Apostles, and the writings of the Apostle Paul and concluded with a study of the seven Universal Epistles and finally, the Revelation of John.

Each weekly class was well attended by both St. John’s parishioners and also members from other ecumenical churches. Future classes of New Testament study will be planned in the coming year.

Claudia Caveney, Leader

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