MINUTES OF THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL

OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

MARCH 16-17, 2012

THE RADISSON HOTEL CLEVELAND-GATEWAY

CLEVELAND, OHIO

FRIDAY MARCH 16, 2012

FIRST PLENARY

Call to Order and Declaration of a Quorum

The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Ms. Penny Lowes, presiding, the time

being 9:04 AM EDT, Friday March 16, 2012.

Acting on the advice of the Registrar, Ms. Denise Shimell, Ms. Lowes declared a quorum

present. At the quorum call there were 77 members present.

Members or Member-elect present or registered for the meeting; Ms. Jane Anderson, Mr.

Douglas Andrews, Ms. Jean Avison, Mr. Charles Barnes, Mr. Geoffrey Black, Ms. Dale

Bonds, Mr. Walter John Boris, Ms. Dorinda Broadnax, Mr. Glen Brown, Mr. Robert

Brown, Mr. Reuben Cedino, Ms. Marcia Charles, Mr. W. Mark Clark, Mr. Arthur Cribbs,

Ms. Megan Culbertson, Mr. John Deckenback, Mr. Michael Downs, Mr. Harold Drury,

Ms. Marjorie Ellis, Ms. Maren Elnes, Ms. Sylvia Ferrell-Jones, Ms. Kelly Forbush, Ms.

Kathleen Forman, Mr. Gilberto Garcia-Rodriquez, Mr. J. Bennett Guess, Ms. Barbara

Hanks, Ms. Christine Hanson, Ms. Alice Harper-Jones, Mr. Donald Hart, Ms. Ruth

Harvey, Mr. Richard Heiss, Mr. Ron Hildahl, Ms. Kathleen Hoffman, Mr. Brian

Holeman, Ms. Ann Ito, Ms. M. Linda Jaramillo, Mr. Stephen Keithahn, Ms. July Kilmer,

Ms. Hyo-Jung Kim, Ms. Katherine Lambertson, Mr. Richard Leavitt, Mr. David Long-

Higgins, Ms. Lowes, Mr. Doyle Luckenbaugh, Mr. Ioane Mailo, Mr. James Maki, Mr.

Kevin Manz, Ms. Corliss Marsh, Mr. Doug McClelland, Ms. Kimberly McKerly, Mr.

James Moos, Mr. David Moyer, Ms. Marilyn Pagán-Banks, Mr. Ronald Patterson, Ms.

Leslie Penrose, Mr. Herbert Perkins, Mr. Richard Pleva, Ms. Anita Louis Poole, Ms.

Shari Prestemon, Ms. Katherine Rogers, Ms. Susan Rotblat-Walker, Mr. Thomas Roust,

Mr. Dwayne Royster, Ms. Sheila Rubdi, Mr. Fred Schwerdt, Ms. Christine Shesler, Mr.

Bryan Sickbert, Ms. Kaji Spellman, Ms. Brenda Square, Ms. Carol Stanley, Mr. William

Sterrett, Ms. Kelly Stone, Ms. Jane Tedder, Ms. Libby Tigner, Mr. Fredd Ward, Mr.

Bernard Wilson and Mr. Douglas Wooten. Members or Members-elect excused; Mr.

Douglas Anders, Ms. Stephanie Doeschot, Mr. William Edwards, Mr. Carlos Floresca,

Mr. Robert Grove-Markwood, Ms. Lana Ka’opua, Mr. Bermin Langbata, Ms. Marta

Rodriquez, Mr. Joseph Vasarhelyi, Ms. Hattie Walker and Ms. Arlinda Wickland. There

were no members absent.

Adoption of the Agenda

Ms. Lowes invited the membership to adopt the printed agenda. Ms. Lowes indicated

that there were two scheduling changes. The report from the Council for Health and

Human Service Ministries (CHHSM) and United Church Funds (UCF) were being flip-

flopped. It was moved and seconded, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-01 to adopt the printed agenda as amended.

Election of Sheila Rubdi to the Local Church Ministries Board of

Directors and to the Executive Council

Ms. Lowes introduced Mr. McClelland, Co-chair of the Organizational Life Committee,

who moved the recommended action to elect Ms. Sheila Rubdi to both the Local Church

Ministries Board of Directors as an At-large Representative, Class of 2013, and to the

Executive Council as a representative of the Local Church Ministries Board of Directors,

Class of 2013, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-02 to elect Ms. Sheila Rubdi to the Local Church Ministries Board of

Directors as an At-large Representative, Class of 2013 and to the

Executive Council as a representative of the Local Church

Ministries Board of Directors, Class of 2013.

Introduction of New Executive Council Members

Ms. Lowes introduced Executive Council Members who were attending their first

meeting: Ms. Elnes, Ms. Ferrell-Jones, Mr. Perkins, Mr. Royster, and Ms. Ellis.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

Ms. Lowes directed the membership to the consent agenda and invited its adoption. It was

moved and seconded, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-03 to approve the Consent Agenda as found on the Agenda of the

March 16-17, 2012 Executive Council Meeting (EC-12-03-01).

The consent agenda included the following actions:

Grant voice without vote to the following staff members and others making presentations

before the March 2012 meeting of the Executive Council and its committees; Ms. Tracy

Carnes, Ms. Chris Cheline, Ms. Elizabeth Clement, Mr. Don Clark, Mr. Bentley

deBardelaben, Mr. Lee Foley, Ms. Ann Hanson, Ms. Jane Heckles, Mr. Don Hill, Ms.

Kathy Houston, Ms. Ann Kiernozek, Ms. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, Mr. Chris Noffke, Ms.

Ann Poston, Ms. Susan Sanders, Ms. Christina Sattler, Mr. Mark Thomas, Ms. Karen

Georgia Thompson, Ms. Susan Towner-Larsen and Ms. Kimberly Whitney.

Approve the Minutes of its November 2011 meeting, as posted and circulated by the

Secretary of the Corporation.

Receive appointments to the Governance Implementation Task Force by the Chair, the

creation of which was requested by the Collegium of Officers. The appointees are;

Associate General Minister Mr. W. Mark Clark Chair, 2009-2011 UGov Chair Mr.

Bernard Wilson-member from the Executive Council, Ms. Marilyn Pagan-Banks-member

from the Executive Council, Mr. Geoffrey Brace-member from the Justice and Witness

Ministries Board of Directors, Ms. Sue Artt-member from the Local Church Ministries

Board of Directors, Ms. Pat Barnes-McConnell-member from the Office of General

Ministries Board of Directors, Ms. Barbara Kershner Daniel-member from the Wider

Church Ministries Board of Directors, Mr. Rich Pleva-member from the Council of

Conference Ministers, 2009-2011 UGov facilitator Ms. Jacquie McLemore-member, A

Proposal for Unified Governance Co-Author Ms. Anita Bradshaw-member and

facilitator, Minister for Governing Body Relations Mr. Lee Foley-member, and staff and

Special Assistant to the Collegium of Officers Ms. Kimberly Whitney-member and staff.

Introduction of New Staff Members

Ms. Lowes introduced new staff members, Ms. Carnes, Ms. Cheline, Ms. Clement, Ms.

Poston and Mr. Thomas.

Community Building

Ms. Lowes called upon Ms. Avison for a process of community building.

Ms. Avison invited each member of the Executive Council to choose two M&M’s from

the bowl on each table, and passed out a sheet with questions for conversations related to

the color of each M&M.

The questions were:

If you could have a t-shirt printed with a message, what would it be?

What is your favorite parable? Why?

What has been the most significant event in your life in the last 3 months?

What is the title of the best book you have ever read? Why?

What person has influenced your life the most? Why?

When do you sense being the most alive?

Report of the General Minister and President

Ms. Lowes called upon Mr. Black, General Minister and President, for his report.

Mr. Black finds the state of the Church very much alive, dynamic and growing as he

moves about the UCC. “The spirit of the people I am encountering who claim the UCC as

their own are excited about where their Church is going.”

Mr. Black reflected that there is a sense that the Church is on the right track, “Signs of

faith, aspiration and hope abound. A new seminary building at Chicago Theological

Seminary says something about the stewardship of our environment and seminary

education, as well as the ability to let go of something that is dearly beloved as we move

to a new way and new shape.”

As further evidence of the creativity, Mr. Black shared that First Congregational UCC in

Washington, DC recently dedicated their building. “It was built as an office tower with

the church at the base of that building.” Mr. Black indicated that this was evidence that

churches are beginning to let go of the traditional church building.

Mr. Black shared that the new Collegium of Officers is hard at work on a wide range of

things.

Mr. Black indicated that they will be present at the National Youth Event in July. He

said the youth event has become an important focal point of wider ministry.

Mr. Black shared that a considerable amount of time has been spent on a Strategic Vision

Plan that will be shared in greater detail later in the meeting.

Mr. Black stated that not only has the national setting been involved in dealing with

change, but Conferences are also facing their own unique challenges, demographics,

shifting resources, and seeking a way forward. Mr. Black indicated that he is looking

forward to a visit from the Kansas Oklahoma Conference. The Conference, a small

Conference with wide geography, has been in conversations with the national setting

about how to partner as they seek to move forward as a Conference. The process is not a

rescuing process, but a rethinking about what it means to be a Conference and what is the

role of Conference Minister. The conversations will include the use of technological

tools as well as the management of financial resources.

An additional example of new rethinking was the recent call by the Southern Conference

of Mr. Edward Davis as Designated Conference Minister. The Conference was not ready

for a full search.

The former Conference of the Reformed Church of Puerto Rico has expressed a desire to

continue to be in relationship with the UCC. The Collegium (except Mr. Clark) will be

going to Puerto Rico along with Mr. Sickbert, President and Chief Executive Officer of

CHHSM, and Mr. Downs, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Pension Boards,

to engage in dialogue and to assist in the recertification of Rider Hospital to become a

CHHSM hospital.

Mr. Black shared that the Church House had enjoyed a great Black History Month

celebration. Mr. Black expressed hope that in the future such events would be streamed

to the rest of the Church.

The UCC’s Ecumenical and Interfaith work, through the efforts of Ms. Thompson, has

sought to re-establish ecumenical connections. In light of the resignation of Mr. Michael

Kinnamon as General Secretary, the members of the National Council of Churches have

sought to rethink their mission as an ecumenical body. During the transition, there have

been no denominational bodies that have pulled away or reduced their funding.

Mr. Black indicated that he had received numerous invitations to participate in various

ecumenical functions, including the Unitarian Universalist Association General

Assembly to address the Islamic community, the local Jewish organization’s invitation to

participate in a global diplomatic Seder, and the Kirchen Gemeinshaft General Assembly

(EKU).

On a personal note, Mr. Black indicated that he will be seeking re-nomination for a

second term.

Mr. Black indicated that the Collegium intends to share their vision plan later in the

meeting.

Given his schedule, Mr. Black was questioned about his self-care. Mr. Black responded

that the first two years self-care had not been a high priority, but in the past year he has

renewed his commitment to appropriate self-care.

Mr. Patterson asked how Mr. Black and the Collegium held prophetic vision and

institutional viability in creative tension. Mr. Black responded that sharing the burden of

institutional viability with members of the Collegium has made the burden bearable. As

far as prophetic voices, “hopefully we do it with a great deal of humility and grace as we

engage people. We hold these things in tension."

Ms. Prestemon asked about the changes and shifts at UCC seminaries. Mr. Black

indicated that the Council for Theological Education's core group is comprised of

seminary presidents, registrars and/or deans, and he said they met earlier this winter.

He reported Bangor Theological Seminary is no longer offering an MDiv or DMin

degree. Seminaries are in different places related to their viability and sustainability and

have been invited to be in conversation with each other about a shared future.

Mr. Guess indicated that it is clear seminaries are working more closely together. The

national offices have requested that seminaries articulate some over-arching issues they

are facing for competitive proposals for funding.

To the question of the creation of a Fund Development Team, Mr. Black responded that a

human resources data base is in development to identify and discover UCC members in

the pews who are excited about their Church and who might be enticed to share in very

special ways.

Appointment of an Ad Hoc Committee Regarding Reelection

(General Minister and President)

Ms. Lowes informed the Council of her appointments to the Ad Hoc Committee

Regarding Reelection (General Minister and President Geoffrey Black); Mr.

Luckenbaugh, Ms. Walker, Ms. Rubdi, Ms. Bonds, Mr. Anders and Ms. Rogers. Ms.

Lowes said she would also serve as a member of and Chair the Ad Hoc Committee.

Report of the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Council for

Health and Human Service Ministries

Ms. Lowes called on Mr. Sickbert, for the report of the Council for Health and Human

Service Ministries.

Mr. Sickbert indicated that the thirty pages at the back of the UCC Yearbook listed all

374 organizations affiliated with CHHSM.

Mr. Sickbert shared that CHHSM will be celebrating their 75th Anniversary in 2013,

although the origins date back 161 years to King Wilhelm III of Prussia who, through the

Evangelical Church of the Prussian Union, founded the first health and service

institutions of the UCC.

Mr. Sickbert indicated that CHHSM is launching a yearlong celebration, with a vision

toward the future as “we seek to celebrate out significant roots in the UCC."

The celebration will focus upon the three UCC values: Continuing Testament,

Extravagant Welcome, and Changing Lives.

Report of the General Synod Nominating Committee

Ms. Lowes called upon Mr. Foley for the presentation of the General Synod Nominating

Committee. Mr. Foley pointed members of the Executive Council to a letter in their

advanced materials signed by J. Matthew Deal, Chairperson of the Twenty-ninth General

Synod Nominating Committee, and Ms. Angela Myers, Vice-chair. The letter outlined a

protocol for self-nomination to the United Church Board. Mr. Foley, who serves as staff

to the Nominating Committee, said 12 members of the Executive Council and the four

ministry boards would be selected as “carry-over” members to the new United Church

Board. The deadline for application is October 15, 2012.

First Report of the Organizational Life Committee

Ms. Lowes called upon Co-chairs, Mr. McClelland and Mr. Ward, for the first report of the

Organization Life Committee for the purposes of presenting and moving the Standing Rules

to the Twenty-ninth General Synod.

Mr. McClelland directed the members of the Executive Council to the document entitled

“Amendments to Standing Rules of the Twenty-ninth General Synod” and moved its

adoption.

Mr. McClelland reported that most of the changes in the document were suggested by the

Committee of Reference. The changes were suggested to improve process, particularly

related to resolutions.

The Committee of Reference is appointed by the Chair of the Executive Council to consider

resolutions to be considered by the General Synod.

Mr. Manz questioned whether the process includes sufficient dialogue and interaction with

the proposers, as well as the process for someone disputing whether the content of the

resolution had been addressed in previous General Synods.

To the question of which body would be the implementing body, wording was added so that

the Collegium will determine the implementing body.

To the question of the timing of the assignment, it was reported that resolutions will be

assigned the summer after General Synod so that the Committee of Reference doesn’t have to

make the decision.

Mr. Cedino asked whether Synod voting by electronic means, which cost $20K, was

essential, preferring to save money for program funds. It was reported that there was a

signed contract for the use of electronic voting devices for two additional General Synods.

Ms. Kim noted that the rules related to exhibits had been deleted, and Mr. Clark responded

that exhibits were a business issue, and it didn’t make sense to include them in the Standing

Rules. A separate document will guide how exhibitors function.

The question was asked who decides what organizations are allowed at General Synod. “Are

we willing to allow staff to make those kinds of decisions?” It was suggested that Executive

Council needs not to be concerned with these kinds of decisions and it was collectively

agreed that these decisions related to exhibitor selections are an administrative issue, not a

governance issue.

It was moved to close debate, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-04 to end debate, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-05 the Executive Council adopts the Standing rules of the Twenty-

ninth General Synod as updated and revised.

Announcements

Mr. Moos invited members of the Executive Council to take a copy of the DVD set

"Discovering Islam". A letter of explanation is included in the set. Mr. Moos said it was

a gift in partial acknowledgement of the General Synod resolution addressing hostility

towards Islam.

Ms. Lowes reminded the membership that Standing Committees would be in session after

lunch and the Program and Planning Committee would meet during lunch.

Blessing of the Meal

Ms. Lowes called upon Ms. Kim for prayer for the blessing of the meal.

Recess

Ms. Lowes declared the First Plenary complete and the meeting of the Executive Council

in recess until 3:45 PM EDT at which time the Second Plenary would be called to order.

FRIDAY MARCH 16, 2012

SECOND PLENARY

Call to Order

Mr. Bernard Wilson, Vice-Chair, presiding, called the Second Plenary to order, the time

being 3:49 PM EDT.

Report of the Collegium

Mr. Wilson invited the members of the Collegium, Mr. Black, Mr. Clark, Mr. Guess, Ms.

Jaramillo and Mr. Moos, for their report.

Mr. Black introduced the conversation by speaking about the strategic vision plans

developed at the last meeting entitled “BIGS” (Bold Inspirational Goals). “These are

goals that will take the Church 10-30 years to achieve, but provide for shorter term

strategies along the way to move it incrementally toward the larger visions.”

“It is the intention to test six goals in the fall. The Core Purpose and Values will be

presented at the Annual Consultation in April in an attempt to develop the strategies for

making real the dreams for the UCC.”

“It is apparent from conversations that what the UCC needs most urgently is radically

new mission strategies. Our reason for being is not only “attractional”, but also

“missional.” “Our service to God is our service to God’s mission.”

“Part of the danger is that the Missional Church is tempted to become all things to all

people, and thus nothing. The invitation is to embrace a fresh imagination in joining God

in the work of the neighborhood. The task is to discern God's movements in our

neighborhoods, and ask the question, how can we join in?”

Mr. Clark continued: “Old Church questions have been the preoccupation of the UCC for

decades. This process of ‘letting go’ should fuel freedom rather than panic. Love, mercy

and justice, not counting the cost as we seek to be transformed by faith, should inform

our ministries.”

“New questions must drive us. Questions such as: what is God doing in my

neighborhood? How can I or my congregation or a group of congregations join God in

doing that?”

“Mission 1 was a major attempt to redefine our connection with churches.”

Ms. Jaramillo reflected: “The Bible's principle audience was those who were presumed to

know God. The biblical record demonstrates that Jesus takes great pain to invite people,

learning about their neighborhoods, market places, watering wells and dangerous roads,

asking what is God doing in the world, and how can I join in.”

“The UCC must exist for a purpose much larger than our own survival. We must

transform to become a bold effective responsive servant of a mission of God (Missio

Dei).”

“In a just and sustainable world it is important that we stop worrying endlessly about the

state of the Church.”

“Visions of the future of the UCC include:

1. The UCC is a bold, widely-known and respected public voice of Christianity in service

of God's ever-unfolding mission.

2. There is a welcoming UCC community of faith that is accessible to all, no matter who

they are or where they are on life's journey.

3. Every UCC member is well-equipped to be growing in faith, to be theologically

conversant, and to be active in the global mission of the Church.

4. The UCC has a wealth of prepared, excellent leaders that reflect the diversity of God's

beloved community.”

Mr. Moos spoke about leaders coming to grips with important and unavoidable realities

including but not limited to:

“1. Technology and on-line tools; it will be imperative to embrace God's mission in a

technological age which will depend on our effective use of technology.”

“2. Interfaith global community; leadership must maintain credibility and authenticity as

we remain theologically astute in interfaith conversations and context.”

“3. Embrace the locality of God's Mission; we are invited to be attentive to and in love

with the places where God has called us into mission. We are invited to put our whole

faith in those places that God has called us to serve. This mission will focus on how

members of the UCC view themselves and how we are viewed by others.”

Mr. Black shared that while the strategy of reaching the big goals is being developed, the

Collegium is not ready to tell all of the details.

“1. We will not have one strategy /goal. There will be, perhaps, as many as eight that

will advance more than one goal.”

“2. You can expect strategies that look and act like Mission 1. There will be measureable

goals that elicit participation and excitement. Some of the strategies will be less

“campaignish.” Others will focus upon the complexity of injustice in our world.”

“3. Points will be quite visible in our strategy including technology, interfaith knowledge,

and will speak to locality and proximity of our mission.”

“4. The Collegium agrees that it is important to identify signature issues that will capture

the imagination of our membership across the nation and that will make a noticeable

contribution.”

“Three overarching themes will guide us: environment, education and literacy, and

building the beloved community.”

Mr. Guess invited the members to spend 20 minutes talking around the tables about how

these “BIGS” impact them. “Words matter. How we say and phrase things matter. This

presentation represents the sixth radical edit of these goals.”

“The vision includes a bold public voice, accessible communities, engaged committed

disciples, and excellent leaders. “

“The questions before us are:

What is demanded of us to see these goals realized in 30 years?

What must happen immediately?

What culture changes would be required?

How does this excite you and inspire you to a deeper commitment to this Church?”

In a Q&A following the presentation the following items were shared.

Ms. Spellman expressed the hope that all UCC congregations be technologically

connected to one another.

Mr. Perkins reflected that the reference to the path to “multi-cultural” is not clear in the

presentation. Mr. Perkins expressed that, while there is interest, a real understanding of

cultures and differences and how racism enters our lives is important.

Mr. Patterson expressed the conviction that the way to enthuse each local congregation is

to invite them to be the best that they can be in mission.

Ms. Avison reflected that, “Part of the journey is to be able to put our message into

something that has depth behind it. How do we tell our story better?”

Ms. Stone suggested that it will be important to be willing to let go of traditional notions

of what it means to be Church, which includes buildings and other traditional sites of

Church. “A new vision would include moving out into the world, which is a long term

goal. Creative thinking will allow us to be aware that the local church is not the only

place where ministry is taking place.”

Mr. Black responded that one of the “BIGS” is that the Church will be accessible to all.

“There are other models of Church we need to lift up as visions.”

Ms. Pagan-Banks; “It will be important to engage in intentional conversations. The

words we use might be different, but the narrative is the same.”

Ms. Poole asked what the engagement process was going to be, and how did the process

take into account having conversations with local congregation to take ownership in this

process. Ms. Poole also reflected that the proposal makes an assumption that everybody

is theologically literate. She said, “The current proposal still feels as though leadership is

“telling” the local church.”

Ms. Jaramillo responded that this will be a journey. “There will be more specificity of

the strategies themselves. We are writing this proposal in the vision of a certain

community, but it does not exclude other communities from writing their own vision. It

is the intention that as we gather we have conversations around the question, how do we

get to our beloved community? It is hoped that these conversations will generate

hundreds of strategies.”

Mr. Black expressed the hope that as members share the text of the presentation, it will

become the beginning of many associated strategies that will come from local churches.

Ms. Jaramillo added, “Sometimes we get stuck. We effectively do one strategy over two

years and then think we're done. The process needs to be ever evolving renewal. The

world changes around us, and it will be important for us to be flexible enough to change

as needed. Our public witness in the world keeps the vision alive in hearts and minds.

Human beings need affirmation.”

Ms. Pagan-Banks commented, “God is already at work even without us. We need to

make this vision happen in our churches or we'll lose it.”

Blessing of the Meal

Ms. Lowes called on Ms. Poole for the blessing of the meal.

Recess

Ms. Lowes, presiding, declared the Second Plenary complete and the meeting of the

Executive Council to be in recess until 6:45 PM EDT.

FRIDAY MARCH 16, 2012

THIRD PLENARY

Call to Order

Vice-chair, Mr. Wilson, presiding, called the Third Plenary of the Executive Council

meeting to order, the time being 6:45 PM EDT.

Introduction of the Parliamentarian

Mr. Wilson introduced Mr. Thomas who will serve as the parliamentarian.

Report of the President of the United Church Funds

Mr. Wilson called upon Mr. Don Hart, President of the United Church Funds, for the

report of the ministry.

Mr. Hart reported that the ministry was formed in 1909. Originally formed to manage the

Pilgrim Memorial Fund which was established to augment pensions for ministers, the

fund currently has in excess of $40M from the original investment of $5M.

The original purpose expanded to invest money and hold property for churches in the

UCC. In 1950 the investment fund began to pool their investments. Currently the United

Church Funds manage $700M in 11 different funds for 1000 different churches.

All Covenanted Ministries use United Church Funds. Their investments comprise 50%

of the assets that are managed.

United Church Funds shares the Investment Officer with The Pension Boards. UCF has

become the fiscal agent for the denomination’s planning giving program, gift annuities,

and remainder trusts. There is approximately $26M-$27M in these future gifts to the

Church.

United Church Funds has developed guidelines for seminarian scholarships, representing

the seven UCC seminaries, members nominated by COREM, and providing resources for

continuing education and bi-vocational training. WCM and LCM administer these

scholarships. The fund now holds $6.5 million and has distributed close to $2 million in

the last 15 years.

United Church Funds has a common screening policy shared with The Pension Board for

corporate social responsibility issues, believing it is important to be active share-holders

for the stocks held. During the current year UCF will take a fresh look at the protocol for

social screenings.

United Church Funds is available for workshops about investments, endowments,

investment policy resources, and good practice endowment. UCF has an abundance of

resources available on their web-site www.UnitedChurchFunds.org.

The question was raised as to the relationship between United Church Funds and

Cornerstone. Mr. Hart responded that they were complimentary ministries.

Report of the Governance Implementation Task Force

Mr. Wilson called upon Mr. Clark for an update on the activities of the Governance

Implementation Task Force.

Mr. Clark said that as the Task Force goes about its charge it will also serve as a liaison

to the Covenanted Ministry Boards and serve in an advisory role to Collegium. The

committee is also prepared to provide ratification support, if needed, as the amended

Constitution makes its way through the ratification process.

It is anticipated that ratification will occur by late June. The amended Constitution and

Bylaws will be declared in force on a predetermined date, selected so that all the elements

of the transition are in place when the in force date arrives.

The Task Force has identified a number of internal structure items it will prepare for

adoption by the new board, and Mr. Clark said the new board may well have a brief

meeting after Synod to elect its officers.

Board orientation will be robust in anticipation that these new members will, in fact, be

new.

Mr. Clark said the Task Force will meet again in September and again in January of

2013.

Report of the Collegium Relations Committee

Mr. Wilson introduced Ms. Ito, Chair of the Collegium Relations Committee, for the

report of the committee.

Ms. Ito reminded the membership that proceedings of the Collegium Relations

Committee are confidential. The committee met over dinner and received updates from

each member of the Collegium.

Ms. Ito said, “We can confidently say we are seeing the "jelling" of the new Officers of

the Church.”

Second Report of the Organizational Life Committee

Mr. Wilson re-called Mr. Ward and Mr. McClelland, Co-chairs of the Organization Life

Committee, for the second report of the Committee.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-06 The Executive Council declares Jeanette Carpenter Schreiber and

Jane Tedder eligible for election to the Board of Trustees of The

Pension Boards-United Church of Christ, Inc.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-07 the election of Stephanie Doeschot to the Executive Council as a

non-voting representative of the Reformed Church in America,

Class of 2013;

the election of William Edwards to the Executive Council as a

representative of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Class

of 2013;

the election of Marjorie Ellis to the Executive Council as a non-

voting representative of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in

America, Class of 2013;

the election of Marta Rodriquez to the Executive Council as a non-

voting representative of the Presbyterian Church (USA), Class of

2013;

the election of Bermin Langbata to the Executive Council as a

representative of the Southwest Conference, Class of 2013.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-08 the election of Donald Barnes to the Justice and Witness Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of The Pension Boards,

Class of 2013;

the election of Roxanne Gould to the Justice and Witness

Ministries Board of Directors as a representative of the Council of

American Indian Ministries, Class of 2015;

the election of Lauri Hasler to the Justice and Witness Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of the Southwest

Conference, Class of 2013.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-09 the election of Douglas Lander to the Local Church Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of the Penn Northeast

Conference, Class of 2017;

the election of Frederick Young to the Local Church Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of the Penn Central

Conference, Class of 2015.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-10 the election of John Kleiman to the Office of General Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of The Pension Boards,

Class of 2013.

Mr. Ward, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-11 the election of Nicholas Berroth to the Wider Church Ministries

Board of Directors as a representative of the Kansas-Oklahoma

Conference, Class of 2013.

Report of the President and Chief Executive Officer of

The Pension Boards

Mr. Wilson called upon Mr. Downs of The Pension Boards for his report.

Mr. Downs, in his traditional Top Ten, offered the following report.

10 - 1914 The Pension Board was created on April 23, 1914. The 100th anniversary vote

was taken in March of 1922 in Southern California.

9 - 1918 represented the anniversary of the landing of the pilgrims. 1920 the fund was

tasked to raise pension monies for pastors for their faithful service.

8 – The UCC Pension Boards represents the 415th largest retirement fund in America.

Dell computer is 407th, Lowes is 421st. The fund is currently now $3 billion

7 - Investment returns are as follows: 11.31% equity, 1.29% bond, 7.56% balanced, .43%

stable value /money market all derived through the lense of corporate social

responsibility.

6. 30 – The next generation leadership target 20/30 clergy network, The Pension Board is

looking at the Church of the future, not the future of the Church. Two classes of 2021

and 2022, persons who are in their first call in their first 5 years of ministry. The Pension

Board has just recruited their 3rd class. 4-18 are selected for each year. Ms. Kaji

Spellman (member of the Executive Council) is one of the participants.

5. $43,747.48 is the amount received for the Christmas offering which serves as a

supplement to ministerial relief. The offering is 109 years old. Mr. Ron Patterson's

church in Naples, Florida is the largest single contributor.

4. Increases in costs have risen 2.3% for non Medicare, 4.5% for Medicare, 2.5% for the

dental plan. These increases have been at 1/2 the national increase costs in healthcare.

The Pension Boards serves 10 thousand people.

3. 50% The Pension Board has created five new tiers of rates for those below 40 years of

age in 2012 representing 50 reductions in costs.

2. 52 - 160,000 Church Benefits Association formed in 1915, currently there are 52

denominational entities representing 160K churches and synagogues who administer

benefits. UCC is 7th largest in benefits of these denominational entities.

1. 14 The Church Benefits Association has brought into effect 14 different laws (bills) in

last 17 years.

Report of the Budget and Finance Committee

Mr. Wilson invited Ms. Avison and Mr. Cedino, Co-chairs of the Budget and Finance

Committee, for the presentation of their report.

Ms. Avison, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-12 the Executive Council authorizes the Financial Services staff to

allocate the shortfall in Basic Support receipts ($85,639.16) from

the budgeted amount after adjusting for savings in the Executive

Council net revenues and expenses ($54,210.00) to the Covenanted

Ministries and The Pension Boards recognizing that the resulting

calculations will affect the approved percentages as presented at

the October, 2010 meeting of the Executive Council.

The resulting net charge to each is EC $54,210.00, OGM

$7,086.79, JWM $5,452.79, LCM $9,240.79, WCM $7,432.79 and

PB $2,216.00.

The resulting effective allocation percentages for 2011 are EC

9.863%, OGM 26.376%, JWM 15.385%, LCM 25.099%, WCM

17.257% and PB 6.019%.

Ms. Avison, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-13 the Executive Council establishes the registration fees for the 2013

General Synod at the following rates:

Adults

Full Registration: $225 for delegates, associate delegates, all staff,

exhibitors and visitors

Three Day Registration: $175

Partial Registration: $75 for visitors who attend for a single day.

(Available only to visitors)

Youth

$150 for youth ages 18 and under

Local Registration Fee

$75 for local area volunteers as designated by Conference staff and

planner

Meeting Space During Synod

Morning Caucus $75

Workshop Space $275

Sponsored Meals $375

After Hour Events $500

24 Hour Space $750

Exhibit Booths

National – 1st 10x10 $900

National – additional space $350 each

Outside – 1st 10x10 $500 (still pay $225 registration)

Outside - additional space $350 each

Pre Synod Events

All Day Event $600

Half Day Event $300

As the cost of the General Synod is supported in large part by the

cost of registration, all participants must register for Synod, thus

sharing in the support of this event in the life of the Church.

Ms. Avison and Mr. Cedino thanked Ms. Houston and her staff for their work on behalf

of the Committee.

Evening Prayer

Mr. Wilson called upon Mr. Cedino for evening prayer.

Recess

Mr. Wilson, presiding, declared the Third Plenary complete and the meeting of the

Executive Council to be in recess until 8:15 AM EDT, Saturday, March 17, 2012, the

time being 7:42 PM EDT, Friday, March 16, 2012.

SATURDAY MARCH 17, 2012

FOURTH PLENARY

Call to Order

Ms. Lowes, presiding, called the Fourth Plenary of the Executive Council meeting to

order, the time being 8:15 AM EDT, Saturday, March 17, 2012.

Announcements

Ms. Lowes urged the membership to use cabs rather than buses or rail service to the

airport as Cleveland was celebrating St Patrick’s Day and some 750,000 people were

expected in downtown Cleveland for the parade and other St. Patrick’s Day events.

Because the Council was concluding its agenda earlier than expect, worship will begin

early.

When the Executive Council gathers in October, it will use the same meeting format;

breakfast Friday to no later than noon Saturday.

Ms. Lowes thanked the staff and in particular Mr. Noffke, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Foley and

Ms. Sattler.

Mr. Black spoke about the Ecumenical Partners who were elected yesterday and re-

introduced Ms. Marjorie Ellis, representative from the ELCA, saying he wanted to make

certain the new ecumenical representatives know full-well how much their service is

appreciated and how welcomed they are to the body.

Report of the Development Committee

Mr. Wilson, presiding, introduced Mr. Patterson and Ms. Poole, Co-chairs of the

Development Committee for the presentation of the committee.

Ms. Poole indicated that the Development Committee was presenting no items for action.

Members of the Development Committee spoke about the success of the OCWM –

Mission 1 report. The project was coordinated by staff member Ms. Lizardy-Hajbi. A

large scale on-line survey was conducted that resulted in 873 responses representing a

92% completion. Two targeted response surveys were also conducted with congregations

both who did and did not participate. Results indicated that the campaign was

meaningful for all of them. In addition, an on-line survey of staff in the national setting

was taken exploring their thoughts about the initiative.

Conclusions received from respondents included:

The initiative was designed to engage the whole UCC, generating a sense of connection.

The initiative increased and deepened awareness of the injustice of food and hunger

issues.

In assessing the overall structure, goals were clear, there was a set time frame, and there

were a variety of different ways to engage the initiative.

The “not participating” congregations did not signal a lack of commitment to the mission,

rather these congregations were engaged in their community, just not with Mission 1.

Recommendations included:

This kind of initiative is replicable.

Greater clarity is needed about what is being given and to where. The campaign mingled

Neighbor’s In Need with Eastern Africa offerings. Clearer guidelines for future offering

efforts will be desired.

Mr. Patterson reported that while OCWM support fell $85,000 short of the national goal,

the Church’s giving is amazing, “The Development Committee is eager to take the

conversations taking place in local churches and develop new patterns of giving. A

strategy to support congregations and individuals will provide the context for new fund-

raising plans. “

Mr. Patterson shared the quote, “Extraordinary experiences inspire extraordinary

philanthropy. Giving does follow enthusiasm.”

Report of the Evaluation, Policy and Planning Committee

Mr. Wilson called on Ms. Spellman and Ms. Broadnax, Co-chairs of the Evaluation,

Policy and Planning Committee, for the committee’s report.

Ms. Spellman, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-14 The Executive Council affirms the Report on the Twenty-eighth

General Synod Adopted Resolutions and Other Business Items,

with two exceptions;

A.) No report on Covenant on Youth Ministries was submitted.

B.) No report on To Form a Theological Forum was submitted.

The Committee requests that the Executive Council create a task

force comprised equally of representatives of each of the

(Affirming Health Care Coverage for United Church of Christ

Authorized Ministers and Their Families) Resolution’s named

constituencies, including the sponsor of the resolution, the Pacific-

Northwest Conference.

Mr. Hart questioned why The Pension Boards was not included in the listing of

participating agencies and requested that it be included as a friendly amendment in the

resolution.

In preparation for the vote on the Report from the Committee on Disabilities, it was

suggested that members of the Executive Council consider what difficulties exist for

persons with disabilities by imagining:

Leading worship while using a wheel-chair.

Sitting through worship without being able to see the screen.

Reduce your ability to hear.

Walk and roll in our shoes.

Getting to church without the benefit of transportation.

In facing mental illness and/or brain disorder, do you tell or not, when and how?

The act of revealing yourself could cost you your seat in the pews.

There are architectural and attitudinal issues related to the Church’s response to persons

with disabilities.

Ms. Spellman, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-15 The Executive Council adopts the Report from the Committee on

Disabilities.

Ms. Spellman reported that a request for realignment of OCWM resources related to the

number of Synod resolutions assigned a specific Covenanted Ministry was discussed by

the Committee.

Ms. Jaramillo expressed gratitude for the discussion, noting the Justice and Witness

Ministry is often named as the implementing body for Synod resolutions, and she said

that since 1957 the Synod has passed over 1,300 resolutions. She said changes to the

General Synod Standing Rules adopted earlier in the meeting could help spread the

assignments, as the new rules provide for the Collegium of Officers, not the Synod, to

determine the implementing body for each resolution. Still, she said, the allocation

formula is going to have to be changed.

Ms. Spellman, on behalf of the committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-16 The Evaluation, Policy and Planning Committee (EP&P) of the

Executive Council (EC) moves to acknowledge and affirm Justice

and Witness Ministries' (JWM's) concern about Our Church's

Wider Mission allocations aligning with Resolutions of General

Synod. As JWM takes further steps to make more specific

recommendations to the EC, particularly around changes to the

General Synod Resolution process, EP&P, as the body that

monitors the progress and implementation of General Synod

Resolutions, would like to work closely with the appropriate

representatives of JWM, the Organizational Life and Budget &

Finance committees of the EC, The Pension Boards and the other

covenanted ministries, to report back to the EC at its April 2013

meeting with recommendations for next steps.

Ms. Broadnax, on behalf of the Committee, moved, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-17 The Executive Council authorizes a Designated UCC Calendar

Date Working Committee to consult on a needs basis to consider

and determine new named date requests as well as make any

updates or date shifts that are needed. The committee will consist

of staff working directly with the Calendar, Worship, and the

LCM Executive Minister or designee, consulting more widely if

needed and as appropriate due to the nature and special focus of a

request. The EP&P Committee requests a report from the

Calendar Date Working Committee at its fall 2012 meeting.

Report of the Program and Planning Committee

Mr. Wilson called on Ms. Tigner, Moderator, Ms. Bonds and Mr. Holeman, Vice-

moderators, of the Twenty-ninth General Synod for the report of the Committee.

Ms. Tigner reflected that food always seems to be an important topic of conversation and

spoke of the “cookie issue”. She said the Local Arrangements Committee was resisting

baking cookies in the numbers that have been provided for most Synods. She said the

resistance stemmed from a health concern. She said cookies will be available, but will be

limited, and not introduced until business meetings on Monday.

She promised the membership that the venue is a wonderful facility and reported all the

local arrangement teams are in place.

Ms. Tigner said there had been a meeting of the committee in February, and it discussed

the Synod format. It was decided to keep most of Saturday as a day of celebration.

However, Saturday morning will focus on light business.

The afternoon workshops will continue in their traditional format, with a major speaker

or other major event Saturday evening. This event will be separately ticketed for those

not registered.

Because of labor strife, two of the major downtown hotels will not be used during Synod,

and this will increase costs in transportation, as hotels further from the convention center

will be used. Outlying hotels as far away as six miles will be used.

The theme for Synod was chosen at the February Meeting. The theme is: “God’s

Vision:…” Ms. Poston, of the Communications Ministry circulated early drafts of art

work and Synod logo to the membership.

Ms. Tigner said the host Conference’s large Samoan membership will be hosting a luau

on Saturday evening, as a targeted fund raising event.

Ms. Ito asked about exceptions to booking rooms at the boycotted hotels for those with

disabilities and said there will be a need for sensitivity for those who will need to stay

near the convention center because of disabilities.

Mr. Wilson thanked the members of the committee for their efforts and said he was

certain Synod would be a memorable event.

Adjournment

Ms. Lowes, presiding, said that concluded the business before the Executive Council.

She thanked the members of the Council for the joy and vision they shared over the term

of the meeting. Thanks were extended to Ms. Lowes and Mr. Wilson for their leadership

and to the staff for its efforts.

Ms. Lowes reminded members of the Executive Council to hold the Collegium in their

prayers.

Ms. Lowes entertained and received a motion and a second to adjourn, and;

It was VOTED

12-03-EC-18 Following closing worship in the chapel, the Executive Council

stands adjourned, the time being 9:32 AM EDT, Saturday, March

17, 2012.

Respectfully Submitted;

Chris Noffke, Recorder

Denise Shimell, Registrar and Editor

Lee Foley, Secretary to the Corporation-The Executive Council of the General Synod of

the United Church of Christ

June 26, 2012