our vision statement - st. andrew's episcopal … · response of the parish to our feasibility...

2 St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

OUR VISION STATEMENT

“St. Andrew’s is a joyous, growing, inviting, and caring Episcopal Church. As such: Our worship balances traditional liturgy with new and innovative ways to connect with God, each other and the community. We have dynamic programs for those exploring their journeys as

Christians. We provide an environment that allows children to enjoy worship and

Christian education. We are learners and doers with opportunities for all to become

involved.”

Staff The Rev. Dr. Jenny Montgomery Rector Mr. Brandon Heishman Director of Music and Organist Ms. Diane Wright Coordinator for Family Ministry Ms. Aubrey Virakone Family Service Pianist Ms. Susan Lobachyov Parish Administrator

Vestry Mr. Craig Lawrence Senior Warden Ms. Claire Jones Junior Warden

Ms. Emily Armstrong, Ms. Jen Madsen, Ms. Sarah Petcher, Ms. Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz, Ms. Libby Schollaert,

Ms. Doris Smith, Ms. Mary Youman Mr. Dana Madsen Treasurer Ms. Marie Hone Register

Trustees Mr. John Bartlett Mr. Rhett Petcher Mr. Richard Knight

Annual Report 2016 3

INFRASTRUCTURE OF ST. ANDREW’S

2016 Ministries of St. Andrew’s—Updated April 2016

Communications—Vestry Liaison—Claire Jones Communications Ministries—Chair

Website, E-News, Social Media, Signage/banners, Parish Directory, Annual Report, Worship materials, Pew Cards

Finance—Vestry Liaison—Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz & Doris Smith

Finance Ministries—Rob McDonald; Counters—Joy Oakes; Golden Jubilee Trust—Tom Cassidy; Memorials Committee—Lloyd Starns;

Sacred Spaces—Warren Marton; Budget & Stewardship Christmas Trees Sale—Bob Len

Formation—Vestry Liaison—Mary Youman

Formation Ministries—Chair FISH, Glorious Companions, Renewal Retreats

Baptism/Confirmation Preparation, Adult Forums

Outreach—Vestry Liaison—Libby Schollaert Outreach Ministries—Jen Gowetski

Endowment Human Need, Outreach Projects: Haiti partnership, APAH, Arlington Street People/ASPAN,

AFAC Garden/Orchard, Meals on Wheels, Arlington Food Assistance, Christmas Angel, Doorways, Cherrydale Healthcare Morning Prayer

Parish Life—Vestry Liaison—Emily Armstrong

Parish Life Ministries—Chair Welcome & Fellowship—Jean Lynn

St. Andrew’s Players—Jane Massant; Shrine Mont Parish Weekend—Leslie Harrington St. Anne’s Guild—Trudy Koczyk; Congregational Care—Priscilla Carey

Physical Spaces—Vestry Liaison—Sarah Louppe Petcher

Physical Spaces Ministries—Chair B&G Committee—Jim Williams

Memorial Garden; Community Building Usage Playground—Marcela Scott

Worship—Vestry Liaison—Jen Madsen & Craig Lawrence

Worship Committee—Chair Music/Choirs; Family & Choral Worship

Altar Guild—Ronnie Doherty; Contemplative Worship Lay Worship Leaders—Ana White; Feast Days & Special Services

Ushers & Greeters; Supply Clergy


SAINT ANDREW’S PARISH MINISTRY Table of Contents With Christ at the center of all we do and believing that all baptized persons are gifted and called to minister to others in the name of Christ, we at St. Andrew’s Church work to offer a variety of ministry opportunities for all who want to grow in faith. Pledging our support of these ministries, the Vestry commits to providing guidance, resources, and encouragement for these groups to carry out their mission and ministry.

Ministries of Leadership Rector’s Report 5 Vestry Report 6 Mutual Ministry Review 6 Parish Office 7 Communications 7

Ministries of Worship Music 8 Altar Guild 8 Lay Worship Ministries 8

Ministries of Formation Family Ministry 9 Glorious Companions 11 Adult Formation 11

Ministries of Outreach Endowment for Outreach and Human Needs 12 Outreach Projects 13 Community Partners 15

Ministries of Parish Life Welcome and Fellowship 17 St. Andrew’s Players 17 Shrine Mont 18 Congregational Care 18 St. Anne’s Guild 18

Ministries of Finance Finance Committee 19 Stewardship 20 Counters 20 Golden Jubilee Trust 21 Memorials Committee 22 Christmas Tree Sales 22

Ministries of Physical Spaces Buildings & Grounds 23 Sacred Spaces 26 “Plot Against Hunger” Garden and Apple Orchard 27

Photo Highlights 28


MINISTRIES OF LEADERSHIP

RECTOR’S REPORT The Rev. Dr. Jenny Montgomery If you ask me, “Surprise” could very well be a name for God. Throughout 2016 God kept showing up at St. Andrew’s in surprising ways. The first surprise came in January when Brandon Heishman came to be our interim organist/music director. Through listening sessions, a parish-wide survey, and an extensive search process it became clear that Brandon was the right person to fill the permanent position. Then remember when Rosalie Boxt, the Jewish cantor, came on Pentecost to lead our singing? What a surprise to sing a new song with such gusto accompanied by a guitar!

An unexpected surprise came in the spring when Day told us she was relocating to Durham, North Carolina. While we were sad to see her leave, we blessed Day with lots of love and well wishes. Another surprise followed with the energetic leadership of Charlotte Greeson who, before moving to California with her family, ably facilitated several listening sessions about family ministry and helped us bridge the gap between Day’s leaving and Diane’s arrival. Diane Wright’s coming to St. Andrew’s from many years as a strong lay-leader at St. Mary’s was another wonderful surprise of 2016.

God surprises us with the exceptional gifts of our seminarians and Michelle Roach was no exception. After graduating in May, several from St. Andrew’s flew to Orlando for Michelle’s ordination and came back raving about that glorious worship service.

And who knew the Annual Giving Campaign could be so much fun! Thanks to the stellar stewardship training of The Rev. Julie Simonton, our “Walk In Love” campaign was effectively led by Bob Len and Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz. Another surprising fact was the overwhelming response of the parish to our feasibility study regarding the possibility of a capital campaign. Fifty surveys were received with the overall impression of St. Andrew’s being excellent. Church-wide involvement is also excellent. (A more detailed report will be given in the annual meeting.)

Other surprises came from a donation of eighty thousand dollars to our Golden Jubilee Trust, followed by another twenty-thousand-dollar donation. Money was given to the Memorial Fund so that a new advent candle stand could be purchased along with a new processional banner that surprised us with its colorful artistic creativity.

Our All Saints Day celebration held the surprise of seven baptisms in one service! And remember on April 24 when we baptized Tobias, Raphael, and Logan? The night before a gospel concert was hosted by the Jones family and those of us who attended were surprisingly blessed by the Spirit’s outpouring in this place!

Yes, God’s name could surely be “Surprise.” When things happen that surprise us we can always count on God’s goodness, God’s strength, and God’s presence to carry us through with blessing and joy. And so it is with my new call to go and serve Trinity Episcopal Church in Newtown, Connecticut, that I pray God will continue to surprise St. Andrew’s Church in many wonderful ways! Be open to these surprises and welcome them as they come your way especially during this time of transition.


VESTRY REPORT Mr. Craig Lawrence, Senior Warden The vestry and St. Andrew's have been blessed with a very strong, productive and forward-looking year. The Vestry has been a vibrant, collegial, and energetic group inspired by God’s presence for its effort for the parish.

The effort was reflected in an increase from 56 pledging units in 2015 to 65 in 2016. Our active households numbered 85 and there were at least 191 active individuals throughout the year.

One major achievement was the selection of new additions to our great staff. Our new Music Director, Brandon Heishman, and our new Coordinator for Family Ministries, Diane Wright, have been outstanding additions to St. Andrew’s superb staff.

After an exhaustive inquiry into a Capital Campaign to renew St. Andrew’s and embark on a significant effort to address needs and improvements to our worship home, we selected Kirby- Smith Associates to lead our effort. We are initiating the project with the feasibility study to determine how St. Andrew’s can best proceed on the recommended phased approach to satisfy what would suit us best.

The Vestry is impressed and very grateful for the tremendous efforts in all areas of our ministries by the leaders who do so much for our parish in directing these essential elements of who St. Andrew’s is in God’s community. And we appreciate all who give graciously of their time and talent to see that St. Andrew’s reflects God’s presence throughout our area.

MUTUAL MINISTRY REVIEW The Rev. Dr. Jenny Montgomery On Saturday, October 1 the vestry along with Jim Williams, Warren Marton, Tom Cassidy, Lloyd Starns, Jane Massant and Mother Jenny were led in this year’s Mutual Ministry Review by The Rev. Julie Simonton. Serving on the diocesan staff for congregational development and stewardship, Julie invited us to take a congregational inventory based on our behaviors as a church. When answering the seventy questions we were to focus on how our congregation behaves currently, not how it used to be or how we wished it could be.

The findings were interesting. For example, in terms of how we put our vision into practice we were more toward the “spontaneous” end of the scale, meaning we tend to be open to God’s leading and responsive to emerging opportunities and needs. To move us more toward a “planned” strategy it will be useful to set goals and priorities as a congregation. We also learned that in our current structure there is a solid sense of shared leadership among clergy and laity. There is also a strong commitment to working cooperatively and collaboratively when making decisions. A growing edge will be to address conflict openly without judgment and encourage people to state clearly what they need from others to do their work. It was also interesting to see how strong the vestry is on the “managerial” end of leadership and the rector on the “transformational” end of the spectrum. According to Julie (and the vestry and rector agree) this has been very effective in moving us forward. On the other hand, we would do well to put more policies and procedures into place and develop a plan for successive leadership training.


PARISH OFFICE Ms. Susan Lobachyov The parish office maintains a welcoming, inviting space for parishioners and others who visit or call the church. The office is responsible for day-to-day coordination of church events along with Encore Stage & Studio rehearsals and over a dozen outside groups all maintained on St. Andrew’s electronic calendar. Each week communications to the parish are produced including the Sunday bulletin, announcements, Shining the Light e-news and correspondence. Other tasks fulfilled by the parish administrator include entering and posting donations/income, maintaining bill payments, payroll, reimbursements and reporting. COMMUNICATIONS Ms. Claire Jones 2016 saw continued growth at St. Andrew’s and a parallel need for more tailored, consistent and strategic communication with the current congregation, potential parishioners and the larger Arlington community.

After the 2015 annual meeting, parishioner Mark Seip conveyed an interest in creating a strategic communications plan for the church as part of his final project for the Georgetown School of Continuing Studies Public Relations/Corporate Communications program.

Under the stewardship of Junior Warden and Communications Liaison Claire Jones and Mother Jenny, Mark undertook an audit of all the ways the church currently communicates, from the e-newsletter to bulletin boards. In addition, with input from staff, he designed a comprehensive survey to understand what the congregation values about St. Andrew’s and to assess the best ways to communicate with parishioners. The survey was also designed to gather basic demographic information.

To complement the survey data, Mark interviewed Mother Jenny, other staff and parishioners, some lifelong members and some relatively new. He also analyzed how other local Episcopalian churches communicate and delved into the church’s storied history.

The result of his efforts: a comprehensive strategic communications plan for 2017. Mark delivered the plan after he submitted it as his final project. We are currently in the process of reviewing his findings and recommendations to determine how best to proceed in the New Year. Be sure to stay tuned!

Over the course of the year, other communications efforts included continuing to grow our Facebook followers, taking over maintenance of the church website to enable more timely updates and trying to capture events visually to share on the website and on Facebook, since videos and photos get significant feedback on social platforms.

Needless to say, there is a lot to do in the coming year, and it’s all very exciting! If you have communications skills, such as graphic design, photography and video know-how, website development or public relations experience, don’t be shy. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated. Please contact Claire Jones at [email protected].


MINISTRIES OF WORSHIP

MUSIC Mr. Brandon Heishman This has been an exciting and developmental year for music at St. Andrew’s. The music director search began the year, sparking a campaign to uncover what music is important to us, and its meaning to us as a church. Listening sessions in April allowed for everyone to have a voice, and many great ideas were presented.

Since then, guest musicians have joined us in worship on the cello, oboe, trumpet and guitar. Cantor Rosalie Boxt also visited with us at Pentecost to lead us in song, and with her, we talked about the importance of congregational singing in our worship. I hope you have noticed how well we are singing together!

The Adult Choir is enjoying fellowship and the benefit of extra preparation as we now meet one evening per month to prepare anthems and other service music. Yet another great idea from the listening sessions.

In December, SAY (St. Andrew’s Youth) teamed up with the adult choir to host a night of caroling. Though it was a chilly night, many came out to share the Christmas spirit with nearby families, and we brightened a very lonely season for one neighbor who was in need of our fellowship. Truly God works through us when we put ourselves to work for His glory!

We warmed ourselves with hot cocoa and cookies decorated by SAY, and continued to sing inside because we were having so much fun. ALTAR GUILD Ms. Ronnie Doherty During 2016, the Altar Guild continued its ministry of altar preparation for every regularly scheduled service, creation of flower arrangements and care of altar linens, vessels and clergy vestments. Guild members also took on extra duties, including preparation and clean-up, for the special times of the liturgical year, such as St. Andrew’s Day, Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Holy Week, Easter and Pentecost. Other services, such as the Bishop’s visit and the Annual Meeting Service also required the efforts of the Altar Guild. The Guild also prepared for and, on many occasions, participated in several baptisms and funerals, all of which were held at St. Andrew’s.

All of these “labors of love” are performed by a group of 16 dedicated and hard-working members: Tierney Bates, Janey Cartmell, Ronnie Doherty, Joyce Fall, Joan Fern, Suzanne Glenn, Leslie Harrington, Debbie Healy, Mark Hone, Laura Ingles, Carol Kiranbay, Joan Lawrence, Leida Nemir, Lloyd Starns, Ana White and Karen White. Without their commitment and perseverance, it would not be possible to perform all the tasks necessary to preserve the liturgical heritage of St. Andrew’s.

We welcome any member (male or female) of St. Andrew’s who would like to be a part of this vital but behind the scenes ministry. There are many varied tasks and there is a place for everyone’s talent. Please contact me or any other member of the Altar Guild for more information. LAY WORSHIP MINISTRIES Ms. Ana White The year 2016 has been one of little change for the Lay Worship Ministries. Our 8:00 a.m. service is still greatly understaffed, while our 10:00 a.m. service is more robust. In order to make the scheduling of the Lay Worship Ministries more efficient we really need more volunteers, especially at the 8:00 a.m. service.


MINISTRIES OF FORMATION

FAMILY MINISTRY Ms. Diane Wright 2016 has been a year of transitions in the area of Family Ministry as the long-serving coordinator, Day Pritchartt, “retired” in May. During the search process, Charlotte Greeson (who worked at VTS) served as Interim during June and July but she too moved. During the gap time until a replacement for Day was hired, the service was ably led by parent volunteers who rotated duties. In late August, Diane Wright was hired as the new Coordinator of Family Ministry and she began serving in September. This report focuses on activities between September through December 2016.

FAMILY SERVICE OF THE WORD During the school year, attendance at the Family Service of the Word typically comprises about 30 people, half children and half adults. The highest attendance this fall was on September 18, the day of the Community Picnic when attendance was about 50.

Each service is led by a Worship Leader (typically Diane) and a Song Leader (an adult from the congregation). As Worship Leader, Diane plans the service, selects the music and readings, and leads the lesson and discussion. The Song Leader (one of five volunteer adults who rotate) leads the congregation in song together with the pianist. Our regular pianist, Aubrey Virakone, was on maternity leave from mid-September through mid-November. Her friend, Kayla Morris, competently filled in as a substitute during that time. We also have an adult “Acolyte Supervisor” who helps the children light and extinguish the candles.

The typical Service of the Word comprises joyful singing, a reading of scripture or retelling of the scripture story, followed by a short message/lesson. Worshipers then join in a simplified version of the Creed followed by Prayers of the People in which all (children and adults) are invited to share their petitions and thanksgivings. We end by singing our Recessional (which is the same as the Hymn of Welcome in the Choral Service).

During Pentecost, the readings followed Luke’s Gospel and its many parables and stories. We discussed different ways of exercising our “faith muscle” and in that conversation have focused on gratitude and giving. During Advent, we followed the readings from Isaiah and discussed hope, peace, joy and love as we prepared for the arrival of the Christ Child.

GODLY PLAY In early October, Diane attended a three day Godly Play Core Training at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Washington. This training was quickly put to use in three Godly Play sessions offered concurrent with Mother Jenny’s Adult Forum in October. The first session was on Creation (five children participated); the second was on The Flood and the Ark (three children participated) and the last one was on Baptism (eight children participated including three baptismal candidates). Godly Play was again offered on December 11 during the meeting with capital campaign consultants (the theme was Advent and five children participated).

YOUTH GROUP The St. Andrew’s Youth group (SAY) kicked off on Sunday, November 13, with a gathering after the 10:00 a.m. service in the undercroft in which seven youth (five parishioners and two guests) and four adult sponsors met to begin establishing this community. A scheduled event during Advent (Pancakes, PJs and The Polar Express) had to be rescheduled since several of the youth had conflicts. On December 18, SAY met for cookie decorating (with eight youth participating and six adults “helping”) before joining the choir and other parishioners for caroling (the caroling was co-sponsored by SAY and the choir with SAY providing the cookies and hot chocolate). This was a


successful event with over 20 people participating—perhaps a new St. Andrew’s tradition! Plans are underway for at least one monthly youth activity in 2017 (some involving outreach, in-reach, faith conversation and plain fun).

LISTENING SESSIONS Mother Jenny and Diane held two Listening Sessions in November to which all parishioners were invited. In total, 12 people attended. There was strong support for the current format for the Family Service of the Word and a robust discussion about additional offerings with mixed opinions about the FISHing website and the FISHing Sundays. There was interest in activities families can take home and do (such as “Lent in a Box”). There is interest in activities that bring families together outside the Family Service and plans are underway for providing opportunities for families to gather and strengthen community among parents and children.

COMMUNICATIONS There is a weekly Family Ministry update in Shining the Light that reviews what we discussed on Sunday, includes a Family Discussion Starter and a Prayer, along with a preview of what’s upcoming. There has been positive feedback and some families are having the conversations as the children chime in when asked what we talked about last week as Diane ties in to the theme for the week. However, some adults only skim the weekly newsletter. We will continue to experiment with best ways to connect. Diane has set up Mail Chimp accounts for the Family Service and Youth Group, which will be used for targeted emails. Families have indicated a preference to receiving email. Diane is striving to keep the FISH website current with basic resources for each season with Epiphany 2017 being the next one.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES There is interest in continuing to have all parish activities that are intergenerational and family

friendly. Diane will continue to explore opportunities to bring everyone together. Next possibility is a Shrove Tuesday pancake supper.

Advent Wreath Making: Ordered materials for wreath making and prepared various resources for advent prayers.

Coordinated youth involvement in Advent Wreath lighting during Choral Service. Christmas Eve 5:00 p.m. Service: Prepared 60 ornaments which were distributed as gifts to

children attending the 5:00 p.m. service; remade dangling stars. Conversations are underway for setting up a Family Ministry Advisory Committee to support

Diane and be a sounding board for new initiatives. Researching resources for Confirmation classes (next class may begin in Spring 2017 with

confirmation occurring in 2018). St. Andrew’s is blessed with committed, joyful parishioners and faithful leadership. I personally am thrilled to be serving as Coordinator for Family Ministry in such a vibrant church. I look forward to working together as St. Andrew’s continues to “shine its light” in the community—Diane Wright.


GLORIOUS COMPANIONS Ms. Carol Kiranbay The Glorious Companions, a study group of 11 women, continue to meet on Wednesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in the lounge for fellowship and discussion of our current book. The books are chosen by consensus and are generally related to spiritual growth. We are a relaxed group; intermittent attendance is NOT frowned upon. This year Karen White and Mary Youman joined the group.

Mother Jenny joins us for the final discussion of each book to share some of her insights on the book and/or its subject and to get our reactions and opinions.

Our upcoming book is The Flames of Rome: A Novel. We welcome new members…try it, you’ll like it!

Books we’ve studied in 2016 include: The Secret Chord: A Novel Things Seen and Unseen: A Year Lived in Faith The Power of Their Glory: America’s Ruling Class, the Episcopalians

ADULT FORMATION The Rev. Dr. Jenny Montgomery Lent offered several new opportunities for adult formation this year. Morning prayer was led by Marc Hone each Wednesday at 6:15 a.m. and this practice continued throughout the remainder of 2016. Using the curriculum Growing a Rule of Life, on Saturday afternoons Bruce Pickle and Mother Jenny taught about creating a Rule of Life and practicing contemplative prayer. Additional opportunities for practicing contemplative prayer were offered during the year.

Seeking to more fully integrate our spiritual life with social action a book group met at the Rectory on Wednesday evenings during Lent to discuss the book Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson. Mother Jenny facilitated the discussion and participants bravely entered into sharing stories about their prejudices, racism and white-privilege.

In preparation for Good Friday, our seminarian Michelle Roach, led an adult forum discussing the question, “What was so good about Good Friday?” Then as part of her senior leadership project, she planned and led our Good Friday service. Our former seminarian, The Rev. Sarah Colvin, MD, came and led an adult forum in March about gun violence. Sarah’s senior thesis at VTS was "The Episcopal Church's Response to Gun Violence" and she has since completed her MA in Ethics in the Department of Religious Studies at UVA

Politics, Jesus and Prayer was the topic of a three-part adult forum led by Mother Jenny in the weeks leading up to the presidential election in November. Discussions were based primarily on the writings of Jim Wallis, Parker Palmer, Miroslav Volf and John Danforth. In the words of Jim Wallis, "God is not a Republican or a Democrat" and we practiced listening to one another as we engaged in this important conversation of incorporating our faith with our politics.

During the four Wednesdays in Advent Mother Jenny led the Glorious Companions in a Bible study looking at the birth narratives found in the gospels of Matthew and Luke. Referencing the work of Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan, as well as Raymond Brown, the group discussed what the stories about Jesus's birth have to say to us today.


MINISTRIES OF OUTREACH

ENDOWMENT FOR OUTREACH AND HUMAN NEEDS Mr. Richard Knight The Endowment had another outstanding year under the leadership of Jennifer Gowetski as the Chair of the Endowment, and the Committee distributed a $1,000.00 scholarship and divided $4,200.00 in outreach among six deserving recipients.

At its December meeting, Marcela Scott became the Chair for next year, Dave Smith became Deputy Treasurer and Richard Knight continued as Treasurer. The Committee Members are Marcela Scott, Joyce Fall, Harry Amos, Priscilla Carey, Ruth Duvall, Richard Knight, Peter Wehmann, and Dave Smith.

The Endowment is a separate legal fund, recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c.)(3.) entity, and having its own tax number and authorized to receive tax-deductible contributions.

As a separate fund from Parish funds, it is managed by a Committee appointed by the Vestry. It provides another opportunity for Parishioners to give through the Parish for outreach and human needs through bequests in wills, and transfers of cash, stocks, bonds, real estate.

Investments owned by the Endowment are managed by a professional financial advisor with Wells Fargo Advisors, who annually reviews the portfolio and makes recommendations each year for re-investing part of the income generated from its investments. During 2016 the Endowment earned 4.84 % on its investments. The policy is to distribute 80% of the income generated and to invest 20% for long term growth in conservative income producing investments. The Endowment has grown from its inception in 1991 to $ 130,671.43 on December 31, 2016.

A FINANCIAL ACTIVITY: January 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016. Investment Assets—January 1, 2016 $ 120,927.49 Contributions from Parish $ 867.15 Dividends & Interest $ 5,851.90 Increase in Investment value $ 9,743.94 Grants, Distributions and Expenses—2016: Expenses $ 125.00 Scholarship $ 1,000.00 VOICE $ 700.00 OAR $ 700.00 Haiti Outreach $ 700.00 AFAC $ 700.00 THRIVE $ 700.00 Phoenix House $ 700.00 Total $ 5,325.00 Investment Account—December 31, 2016 $ 130,671.43


OUTREACH PROJECTS Ms. Jennifer Gowetski ANGEL TREE PROGRAM: For a fifth year, St. Andrew’s has participated in the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program. The purpose of the program is to provide new clothing, shoes and toys for children of the neediest families designated by The Salvation Army in the Arlington, Virginia area to receive Christmas assistance. We adopted 45 angels again this year. (Chair: Jennifer Gowetski) ARLINGTON FOOD ASSISTANCE CENTER (AFAC) NON-PERISHABLE FOOD COLLECTION: Canned goods for the Arlington Food Assistance Center are collected every Sunday in baskets placed at the doors to the church. A total of 936 pounds of grocery items were delivered to AFAC in 2016, which matched donations in 2015. Our 2016 and 2015 donations fell 200 pounds short of our contributions for the previous four years. Please remember the baskets at the church doors for your donations of groceries to this important community ministry. If every family could bring just one can of beans each week, we would easily reach 2000 pounds a year in donations. In addition, a $700.00 check was sent to AFAC from the Endowment for Outreach and Human Needs. (Chair: Warren Duvall) AFAC “PLOT AGAINST HUNGER”: St. Andrew’s completed its ninth year of vegetable gardening, growing tomatoes, cabbages, squashes, and other hearty vegetables. The garden produced 2860 pounds of fresh produce. This, along with 406 pounds from the Sinclair’s Farm, and 13 pounds from the Church of Covenant’s children’s garden, came to a grand total of 3279 pounds, which was donated to the Arlington Food Assistance Center. (Chair: Dave Smith) ARLINGTON PARTNERSHIP FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING (APAH): This is the fourth year that St. Andrew’s has partnered with the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing’s Backpack Program to provide backpacks and school supplies to the children of their residents. Our families with school-aged children were asked to involve their children in the selection of one additional backpack for a child who needed one, and other parishioners were asked to donate a variety of needed school supplies. We donated over 30 backpacks and many school supplies. (Chair: Jennifer Gowetski) ASPAN’s BAGGED MEALS FOR THE HOMELESS: In 2016, we gathered in the St. Andrew’s kitchen about once a month to assemble 50 meals in support of ASPAN (Arlington Street Peoples’ Assistance Network). We spread the peanut butter and fill the sandwich bags as we give thanks for all of the blessings afforded to us. All ages are welcome and it is always a great teaching moment for our young people. We would like to thank the Smith family (Dave, Doris, and Diana) for picking up most of the food with which we fill each bag; AFAC (Arlington Food Assistance Center) for donating the bread; and each and every person who has provided their time to assemble sandwiches, fill bags, organize pint-sized volunteers, and deliver the meals to the park on N. Oakland Street where the homeless gather. We are looking forward to more afternoons of fellowship and service in 2017. (Chair: Marcela Scott) ARLINGTON THRIVE (formerly AMEN): Arlington Thrive is the only organization in Arlington County, Virginia that provides same-day, emergency financial assistance to County residents who experience sudden financial crisis such as temporary unemployment or illness. A $700.00 check was forwarded to Arlington Thrive from the Endowment.


HAITI OUTREACH: This was the fourth year of our partnership with St. Peter’s School in Berault, Haiti, and with Pere Frederic Menelas. Our contributions for the school lunch program (and, to a lesser extent, for teachers’ salaries) have grown from $2,200 provided in 2013 to $10,450 provided in 2016. In addition, in October 2016, we sent $1,239 from an emergency loose plate offering for hurricane relief in Pere Fred’s parish.

This means that in 2016, we provided lunches for the 153 students and 10 staff members of St. Peter’s School for almost the entire school year, and we ensured that the teachers received at least some salary payments. In 2016, the Blue Ridge School, a boys’ boarding school in St. George, VA, has joined our partnership with St. Peter’s School. After an initial mission trip in November, they are financing a roof for one of the school buildings and additional wooden benches for classrooms. We are looking forward to exploring ways in which we can cooperate with and complement each other as we support our Haitian brothers and sisters in Christ in this rural, mountainous region of Haiti. This cooperation includes the possibility of St. Andrews’ representatives joining a Blue Ridge School mission trip in the spring of 2017.

It’s worth noting that none of these funds for our partnership came from the St. Andrew’s operating budget. They are funds raised through the sale of coffee and Christmas ornaments, our annual Advent bake sale, the St. Andrew’s Players musical revue, the Endowment for Outreach and Human Need, the bake-off, the St. Anne’s Guild, and the personal contributions of members of our parish. Thank you to one and all for living our baptismal vow to “strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being”. Please continue to generously support this outreach effort! MEALS ON WHEELS: St. Andrew’s assists people in need beyond our parish by volunteering through Meals on Wheels (MOW) of Arlington. This service allows people unable to cook/shop for themselves to maintain a nourished life with independence and dignity. It also provides a check-in on those who live alone as any unanswered delivery is reported. Each Monday through Friday, a commercial kitchen prepares and packages a hot meal and a cold meal for each client, and then trucks them to the First Presbyterian Church (Ballston area). Volunteers pick up the meals and deliver them to homebound individuals. There are approximately fifteen routes across Arlington, each serving 7 – 12 clients. St. Andrew's volunteers include Ken and Tierney Bates, Janey Cartmell, Leida Nemir, Jane Massant, Libby Schollaert, Peter Wehmann, and former parishioner Karen Auchter. OFFENDER AID AND RESTORATION MOVEMENT (OAR): The Offender Aid and Restoration movement began in 1968 when a group of citizens in Charlottesville, VA envisioned an improved criminal justice system in which restorative justice was the driving force. In 1974 OAR was established in Arlington, VA. Their mission: “OAR, a community-based restorative justice organization, blends compassion and accountability to assist offenders in leading productive and responsible lives, to the benefit of all.” A $700.00 check from the Endowment was sent to OAR. PHOENIX HOUSE MID-ATLANTIC: Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic offers a pathway to sobriety through more than 20 treatment plans provided by its Arlington-based facilities. It is a regional provider meeting the needs of adolescents, veterans, men and women challenged by substance addition and co-occurring mental health issues. Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic is working to expand and renovate the Boys Recovery Lodge and build a new health and fitness center for the use of all residential clients. A $700 check from the Endowment was sent to Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic.


SCHOLARSHIPS: St. Andrew’s awards scholarships for post-secondary education by The Endowment for Outreach and Human Needs. Students graduating from high school and going on to post-secondary education are eligible, as are older students currently enrolled. This year the Endowment for Outreach and Human Needs awarded a $1,000 scholarship, which went to a student in our congregation. VIRGINIANS ORGANIZED FOR INTERFAITH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT (VOICE): VOICE is a nonpartisan citizens’ organization of almost 50 faith and civic institutions in Northern Virginia. VOICE believes that people working together have the power to change their communities and their country for the better. Its aim is to unite people across lines of race, class, religion, political party and geography. VOICE takes action on key issues in its communities, including immigrant rights, foreclosure accountability, affordable housing preservation, development and youth investment. A $700 check from the Endowment was sent to VOICE. STOP HUNGER NOW: During Lent St. Andrew's participated in this outreach project hosted by all the churches in Region 3. Ages 4+ participated and 10,000 meals were packed with parishioners from other Arlington Episcopal churches. This same project is being planned for this Lent on Saturday, March 25, 10:00 a.m.–Noon (set-up at 9:00 a.m.), at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, 4250 North Glebe Road. Ages 4+. Contributions or participation (or even better, both!) are welcome. Please contact John Seggerman at [email protected] to sign up and/or contribute. COMMUNITY PARTNERS For nearly 50 years, Encore Stage & Studio has given children an opportunity to grow and discover themselves through theatre: onstage, backstage, in the classroom, and in the audience. By involving young people in all aspects of theatre arts, Encore builds a life-long appreciation for live theatre, while also imparting critically important life skills including teamwork, leadership, creativity, literacy, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence. Our sharing-space partnership with Encore is going well and there is a strong hope for a long-term lease arrangement.

The Northern Virginia Bridge Association (NVBA) is a non-profit organization, founded in 1961, whose goal is to promote bridge and support local bridge clubs. The geographical area is roughly Fairfax county out to Manassas and Leesburg to the south, and north to the Potomac river including Arlington and Alexandria. Eugene Schuyler leads the group at St. Andrew’s on Wednesday mornings and on most Federal holidays.

The Arlington Kids’ Stuff Sale is a premier consignment sale is held twice a year at St. Andrew’s—in the Spring and Fall. Over 100 consigners participate in each sale. A wide selection of seasonal kids' clothes and shoes, toys, books, movies, small equipment, strollers, bicycles, maternity clothing and lots more are offered! For close to 25 years, this consignment sale is trusted by many of regular customers as a well-organized, reliable source of all kid-related items!

Empty Bowls is a luncheon fundraiser for AFAC featuring uniquely designed handmade bowls. The event is held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church on Super Bowl Sunday. Bowls are created by potters at local ceramics studios and students from local high schools and university art departments. Delicious chowders, soups and breads are made by local restaurants chefs and desserts are baked by AFAC volunteers. Tickets are sold for this event and guests get to take home a handmade bowl.


As part of a nationwide network of chapters, the Alzheimer's Association National Capital Area Chapter provides help and hope to more than 66,000 people with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and their families and caregivers in the District of Columbia, five counties in suburban and Southern Maryland and eleven counties in Northern Virginia. For more than 30 years, they have provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced changes in public policy. The Arlington County group meets at St. Andrew’s on the first and third Thursday mornings of each month.

The mission of the International OCD Foundation is to help everyone affected by obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders to live full and productive lives. Their aim is to increase access to effective treatment, end the stigma associated with mental health issues, and foster a community for those affected by OCD and the professionals who treat them. This group meets on Monday evenings at St. Andrew’s.

Potomac Valley Watercolorists based in the Maryland/Virginia/D.C. area, is a juried society of watercolor painters. This is a nonprofit organization that seeks to promote the art and excellence of watercolor painting. Members include many watercolor instructors and artists who exhibit at prominent galleries, museums, and nationally acclaimed shows. Some serve as jurors; others give demonstrations and programs for art and community groups. Workshops are held in the spring and fall at St. Andrew’s as well as their annual art show and sale.

The Northern Virginia Bird Club was founded in 1954 as the Northern Virginia Chapter of the Virginia Society of Ornithology. The Club is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization which provides nearly 600 members the opportunity to conserve, watch, enjoy, study and understand birds and their habitats and interactions with people. The primary method of achieving these educational aims is by having more than 100 bird walks each year. Their meetings are held at St. Andrew’s.

Offender Aid and Restoration of Arlington County, Inc. (OAR) was established in 1974 by a local group of women from Arlington, Virginia, who volunteered in the jails and saw a need for ongoing support of prisoners and ex-offenders who remained largely ignored and forgotten by society. OAR continues to serve the county of Arlington and the cities of Alexandria and Falls Church. Their annual Christmas Wrapping Party is held each December at St. Andrew’s with over a hundred volunteers participating.

The Arlington Artists Alliance is a non-profit organization serving and supporting artists in Arlington County. The Alliance works with participating local businesses, churches, and educational institutions to hold art shows in their spaces. The Alliance also provides a support network to members, allowing regional artists to share ideas. The Alliance’s annual art sale is held at St. Andrew’s.

Sinclair Farm CSA brings farm fresh foods to subscribers’ tables each week through convenient local pick-up in the upper parking lot of St. Andrew’s. Members of the Sinclair Farm CSA program receive a weekly market share of seasonal fruits and vegetables grown on their farm. They also have eggs from their chickens and milk and meat shares available from other local farms. Their Mission: to grow and produce safe, healthy, flavorful food that will encourage folks of all ages to know and appreciate local food "harvested at the peak of flavor" and treat our customers with respect and integrity while improving our land. Debbie and Allen Sinclair, met in Maryland, Debbie's home state. Allen grew up on a hay and cattle farm in Georgia. After successful careers in the health care industry in the Metro DC area, they say they couldn't wait to make a career change to be farmers.


MINISTRIES OF PARISH LIFE

WELCOME AND FELLOWSHIP Ms. Jean Lynn Members of the Committee are Jean Lynn—Chairperson; Carol Kiranbay, Debbie Green, Karen White, Craig Lawrence, Corttney Roan, Jonathan White, Peter Wehmann. Vestry Liaison—Emily Armstrong.

The Welcome & Fellowship Committee met approximately 4 times during 2016. The committee hosted the following events:

Bishop’s Reception January 31 St. Andrew’s Players Reception March 5 Welcoming dinner July 8 Parish Picnic September 18 St. Andrew’s Reception November 20

In addition to hosting the above events, the Welcome & Fellowship Committee prepared 20 Welcoming bags for the parish. Unfortunately, no pictures were taken of these events to my knowledge. Will try and do better for 2017! ST. ANDREW’S PLAYERS Ms. Jane Massant and Ms. Helen Ely The Players led off their performance year in January with a staged reading of Freud's Last Session by Mark St. Germain. The play is based on psychiatry professor Dr. Armand Nicoli's book The Question of God: C.S. Lewis and Sigmund Freud Debate God, Love, Sex, and the Meaning of Life. The resulting two-hander featured Craig Lawrence as Lewis and Robert M. Watson as Freud. Helen Ely directed, Joan Lawrence did costumes, and Andrew Watson handled sound effects. The play mixed humor and philosophy, challenging both the actors, who rose to the occasion, and audience, whose lively conversations during the post-performance reception suggest that they found the work stimulating as well as enjoyable.

On March 5, 2016, the St. Andrew’s Players presented Broadway—Then and When, a revue which included scenes from past shows (Man of La Mancha, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, The King and I, etc.) as well as scenes from shows on the “one-day” list (Annie, Oliver, Into the Woods, Camelot, etc.) The program was directed and produced by Jane Massant, choreographed by Sarah Edwards, costumed by Joan Lawrence, and under the musical direction of our accompanist, Barbara Wilkinson. John Craig and Steve Pearson did their usual brilliant job with sound and lighting. Our Mistress of Ceremonies, Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz kept things woven together onstage while Karen Colmie held things together backstage. In total, 15 adults and 18 youth and children entertained an audience of over 100 for two hours. Dozens of supporters helped cook and serve chili and cornbread for this dinner-theater style event. The success of the event was measured not only by the talent and camaraderie, but by the hefty proceeds, $1,517 which all went to St. Peter’s School in Haiti.

Planning for a 2017 production began on October 2, 2016, when 15 former Players met to discuss interest, options, and availability. The need to expand our pool of offstage players for directing, producing, stage management, and set design was recognized as an important factor in securing the future of the St. Andrew’s Players. While several adult plays are under consideration for both fully staged performances or readings in the spring, no decisions have yet been made. There is a strong possibility that a mini Broadway Then and When—Part II, will provide entertainment for our annual St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser. We will soon begin recruiting all ages, but especially our younger Broadway fans for this event.


SHRINE MONT Ms. Leslie Harrington The annual Parish Weekend at Shrine Mont took place in July 2016. 28 people braved the heat wave and we had a great time (as usual). One of the highlights was the Saturday program led by Brandon Heishman. I'm still singing “Happiness Is…”

The dates for this year's weekend will be announced in early Spring. CONGREGATIONAL CARE Ms. Priscilla Carey Our work continues to make St. Andrew’s a caring community. We work beyond the confines of a committee structure and lead by example as we identify a need and attempt to meet that need. This year the entire congregation was called on to drive parishioners to doctor’s appointments and provide meals to those in need. With our committee funding, we support a “flower ministry” sending greetings to those in need from the entire parish family. ST. ANNE’S GUILD Ms. Janey Cartmell St. Anne’s Guild, an established women’s group of over 50 years, meets quarterly in the Lounge for Christian fellowship and service. Meetings are held in March, June, September and December on the third Tuesday of the month. All are welcome to attend. The meeting starts with a short business discussion, followed by lunch and a program. Voluntary contributions provide the means for inreach and outreach. In 2016, the programs included a travelogue of a guild member’s trip to Vietnam; an account of the Labyrinth Prayer Walk at St. George’s Episcopal Church; selected readings from "Jesus Today", by Sarah Young, and discussion on how the Holy Spirit is applied to daily living; and a Christmas ornament exchange. St. Anne’s Guild outreach support included monetary support to the Haiti lunch program and to the Society of St. Margaret for its mission in supporting the elderly in Haiti.

Members include Trudy Koczyk (Treasurer), Janey Cartmell, June Dudley, Ruth Duvall, Joyce Fall, Joan Fern, Heather Fitzgerald, Debbie Green, Carol Kiranbay, Leida Nemir, Lloyd Starns, and Karen White. For more information, please contact Joyce (2017 Chair) at [email protected] or Janey (2017 Secy/Treas) at [email protected].


MINISTRIES OF FINANCE

FINANCE COMMITTEE Mr. Rob McDonald St. Andrew’s Finance Committee is chaired by Rob McDonald. Members include our Treasurer, Dana Madsen, Bob Len, John Bartlett, and Danielle Metzler. The Finance Committee is required by the Canons of the National Church and the Diocese to advise the Rector, the Vestry, and the Treasurer on financial matters. We view this charge to the committee as involving several major responsibilities including advising the Vestry on our church’s most important financial issues, advising the Treasurer and overseeing St. Andrew’s finances and annual budgetary process, and engaging in finance related projects at the request of the Vestry.

2016 was a notable year for St. Andrew’s Finance Committee and the church’s financial health. Several financial initiatives have improved St. Andrew’s financial position. Recognizing the need in 2015 for improved communication with the congregation, the Finance Committee has worked more closely with the Vestry to communicate the intra-year financial position more frequently and through new means. Also, Dana Madsen was appointed St. Andrew’s Treasurer in 2015 resulting in significantly improved monthly oversight of St. Andrew’s finance statements and financial operations. Other initiatives and priorities for the St. Andrew’s Finance Committee include:

Working more closely with the buildings and grounds committee to identify long-term strategy needs of the St. Andrew’s campus and proactively allocating annual reserves to meet these needs. Annual reserves have now been implemented in anticipation of capital funding needs for as many as 15 years into our future. Significant examples include: Annual allocation to Donnelly Building Fund for long-term maintenance was instituted

in 2016. Recommendation to Vestry of prudent allocation of bequests for long-term needs of St.

Andrew’s. Reserves for other purposes have now been incorporated into the annual budgetary process. Completion during the Fall of 2016 of a successful 2017 budgetary process and Stewardship

campaign. Continued management of St. Andrew’s invested assets and consideration of matching St.

Andrew’s expected long-term needs with its invested assets. Coordination with St. Andrew’s Sacred Spaces initiative in 2016 with regard to financial

issues. Identification of the need for a Deputy Treasurer for continuity and ultimate succession

purposes. Other special projects and financial research conducted in 2016 at the request of the Vestry.

Thanks to all the St. Andrews Finance Committee members and to the 2016 Vestry liaisons Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz and Doris Smith who participated in Finance Committee meetings and initiatives. Also, a special thanks to Janey Cartmell who provides invaluable weekly and daily financial operations support to St. Andrew’s.

A 2016 Summary of our financial performance will be forthcoming and presented at the Annual Meeting in January 2017.


STEWARDSHIP Ms. Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz and Mr. Bob Len WALKING IN LOVE FOR ST. ANDREW’S St. Andrew’s parishioners “walked in love” as part of our stewardship efforts in the fall.

Following the Diocese of Virginia’s “Walk in Love” theme for annual giving, St. Andrew’s Stewardship Team organized a campaign complete with branded buttons, thank you notes, and plenty of food to fuel our success.

On September 30, we kicked off the campaign with a festive dinner in the Undercroft, featuring a live rock ‘n roll band called Smalltown, karaoke, and a delicious meal from District Taco. The evening revealed hidden talents among singers of all ages, and many of the nearly 50 attendees also enjoyed multi-generational dancing. It was a great evening of fellowship and fun!

A month later, we bookended the campaign by finishing up with a great chili cook-off, to show we know how to put the “stew” in stewardship. Our wonderful chefs prepared numerous kinds of chili, accompanied by cornbread and other goodies.

Throughout the campaign, the Vestry provided critical support, including pledging early and e-mailing parishioners to announce the start of the giving campaign. Bob Len and Mark Seip also gave powerful testimonials about the importance of pledging during the Sunday services. And Mother Jenny sent handwritten thank you notes to all who made pledges for 2017.

There are plans for more stewardship activities, so stay tuned for additional information. Thanks to everyone whose generosity helped St. Andrew’s make our church, our community, and our world a more joyous, growing, inviting, and caring place in 2016. COUNTERS Ms. Joy Oakes The Counters Ministry empowers individuals to provide a necessary service for the parish, while also building relationships with our fellow parishioners. The time commitment currently averages between 30–60 minutes per month.

No calculus necessary—although occasionally an eraser comes in handy.

Each Sunday, a two-person team counts cash and checks received during the week and the contributions collected during the two services. We also serve at special events, such as the Player’s performances and Christmas tree sales.

Our tasks are straightforward—counters categorize the checks, and photocopy all checks and any envelopes containing cash. We fill out a tally sheet for the treasurer, and prepare and deliver the deposit to our nearby bank.

The counters team currently includes: Jane Bartlett, John Bartlett, Janey Cartmell, Warren Duvall, Ted Edwards, Joyce Fall, Joan Fern, Bob Len, Warren Marton, Joy Oakes, Lloyd Starns, Steve Pearson, and Dana Madsen, Treasurer, (ex officio).

Want to learn more? Interested in joining the Counters Team? Please contact Joy Oakes at 703.465.1685.


GOLDEN JUBILEE TRUST Mr. John Williams KEY FINANCIAL DATA (as of September 30, 2016, the end of the Trust’s fiscal year)

* Amount potentially available for reinvestment or distribution.

DISTRIBUTIONS MADE: The Golden Jubilee Trust distributed $3,500 to St. Andrew’s in fiscal year 2016 to pay for the new banner. In the previous fiscal year, the Trust distributed $6,000 toward the cost of the playground.

PURPOSE: To create a permanent endowment from which earnings can fund and support activities and interests of the Parish.

MISSION: The Trustees of the St. Andrew’s Golden Jubilee Trust are committed to the prudent stewardship and growth of the Trust and to working with the Vestry to fund capital projects beyond the routine and ordinary expenses of the Parish.

FUNDING: The Trust is funded by voluntary contributions, gifts and bequests outside of the Parish’s operating budget. All contributions to the Golden Jubilee Trust are deposited to a Trust account separate and distinct from the Parish’s other financial accounts, and then invested. All contributions to the Golden Jubilee Trust are counted as principal. All investment income - including dividends, interest and realized capital gains from asset sales - are counted as income.

GOVERNANCE: The Golden Jubilee Trust is governed by a Constitution adopted by the Parish in 1996 and revised in 1999 and 2010. The Constitution establishes the rules for the governance and administration of the Trust, including its investment strategy and operating and use strategy.

MANAGEMENT: The Golden Jubilee Trust is managed by a Committee of three Trustees, appointed by the Vestry upon the recommendation of the Rector. The Committee meets quarterly.

The 2016 management team is: Trustees Tom Cassidy (Chair), Bruce Pickle and Doris Smith; Secretary-Treasurer John Williams. Tom Cassidy’s term expired at the end of 2016, and Bruce Pickle is going off the Committee.

The 2017 management team and their term expiration dates are: Trustees Doris Smith (Chair)—term ending December 31, 2017; John Williams—term ending December 31, 2018; and Sarah Petcher—term ending December 31, 2019. The incoming Secretary—Treasurer is Danielle Metzler.

ITEM FY 2015 FY 2016 CHANGE

Income $7,215 $9,920 +37%

Expenses $0 $304 [brokerage fees]

Contributions received $275 $105,446 TBTG!!

Net Asset Value $196,798 $324,120 +65%

Distributions made $6,000 $3,500 -42%

Accumulated income and appreciation* $75,734 $97,250 +28%


MEMORIALS COMMITTEE Ms. Lloyd Starns The purpose of the committee is to administer Memorial Fund donations and to assist parish members and others who wish to make memorial or celebratory gifts to Sr. Andrew’s.

Active members for the 2016 year have included Ruth Duvall, Carol Kiranbay, Trudy Koczyk and Warren Marton. We were saddened to lose long time member Jean Tienken who died in April.

The following projects were funded and completed during 2016:

Two polished brass altar flower vases In memory of Jean Tienken

Polished brass Advent Candelabrum In memory of Chan and Nancy von Schrader Stand, Advent liquid candles and Liquid Christ Candle.

Oak banner pole and floor stand Unrestricted memorial funds for the new St. Andrew’s banner

At the end of 2016, Memorial Funds totaled $5,428 of which $4,000 is available for future projects, and $1,428 is reserved for the Memorial Garden. As always, committee members look forward to exploring new ways to support the life and ministry of St. Andrew’s and will welcome suggestions from parishioners as well as volunteers who wish to join us.

CHRISTMAS TREE SALES Mr. Bob Len We had a successful tree selling season this year and found that the vast majority of buyers are families who have come to us for years and years. One of the more rewarding aspects of being a part of this ministry is the widespread support from the congregation and the way the group comes together to help out over those two weekends. This year, more than 18 of your fellow parishioners were involved on the two weekends when we sold trees. While the sales of Christmas trees each winter raises some funds for our church, this ministry also demonstrates the community and comradery at St. Andrews and our relationship with the broader neighborhood community.


MINISTRIES OF PHYSICAL SPACES

BUILDINGS & GROUNDS Mr. James Williams

“A wop bop a loo bop a lop bam boom!” —Little Richard The past year challenged B&G with many maintenance and repair issues at the Church, Rectory, 2310 house, and grounds of the St. Andrew’s campus. Happily the Rectory garage presented no problems. St. Andrew’s was blessed by angels who funded three major projects: installation of a sprinkler system, 10 maple saplings around the Playground, and repairs to the portico walkway. The cost of other contracted work exceeded funds in the three M&R accounts [Church, Rectory, 2310 house]. We used the Donnelly Building Fund to cover part of that gap.

Our dramatic acquisition was an inground sprinkler system for the consecrated ground of the Church, a gift from Harry and Peggy Amos. In January 2016 Affordable Lawn Sprinklers & Lighting Systems [ALS&LS] installed a 12-zone system around the Church, and a single-zone system in the Memorial Garden. Mother Jenny dedicated both systems in early April. They worked flawlessly all year and were winterized on Halloween. ALS&LS will put them back in operation this spring.

B&G had the same members in 2016: Harry Amos, Richard Knight, Joan Lawrence, Dave Smith, and Jim Williams [chair]. Sarah Petcher served as Vestry Liaison. In Jim’s absence on several occasions, Richard ably led B&G.

FIAT LUX Outside lighting issues have plagued the Church building for years, due to the short life of outdoor incandescent bulbs and the time-consuming process of replacing them. That process entails wrestling with ladder + hex key and/or Phillips-head screwdriver + bulb + housing + seal -- then reverse the order. LED options brought big changes. Last year our electricians installed 20 LED replacement fixtures/bulbs in the roofs above the Office Entrance and Main Entrance, and 12 LED replacement bulbs for the ground spots in front of the stone portico. Those bulbs are rated for 25,000 hours. The sodium bulbs attached to masonry walls facing the Lorcom Lane Parking Lot, Military Road, and the Rectory Parking Lot usually last a few years. So, too, do the incandescent spotlights across from St. Anne’s Garden and the pole light in the Garden. That leaves one problematic outdoor lighting system: the 12 25-volt incandescent bulbs atop the stone walls of the front portico. Those bulbs burn out with annoying frequency, a problem that is exacerbated by moisture in the stonework. B&G is consulting on the best way to convert these fixtures to LED mode.

PAINTING This was a banner year for inside painting of the Church. Manuel Membreno stained the frames of our main-floor bulletin boards and painted the main corridors, stairwells, Old Youth Room, downstairs bathrooms, and Choir Vesting Rooms. The old Treasurer’s Office was recarpeted by Dominion Floors and repainted by Rely-On Decorators, Inc. Those two steps transformed that office from Tobacco Road to the XXI. century. It is now the Music Director’s Office. B&G has similar plans for the old Music Director’s Office [now the Business Office] and the Counters’ Room. Those plans will be reviewed once it is clear how the Sacred Spaces process will unfold.

FIRE MARSHALL VISIT The annual spring visit of the Fire Marshall prompted several overdue steps:

First, in April our electrician restored the legacy fire-alarm system which had been dead for years, even decades. The Church has 10 pull stations to trigger the alarm; on the right wall as one enters the locked boiler room is the cutoff switch, marked with a large white tag. Once the alarm sounds, the only way to turn it off is to use that switch.


Second, we upgraded to LED level the EXIT lights in the ceilings of the Renehan Center, hallway outside the main entrance to the Undercroft, and hallway outside the kitchen. Those lights have battery backups, a feature that proved its worth one evening when the whole area suddenly lost power. For a few hours there were no street lights, no home lights, and virtually no car lights. The many adults and children in the Church were able to make a safe exit, thanks in large part to illumination from those battery-powered signs.

Third, our handyman, Bruce Buchanan, installed eight battery-powered smoke/fire detectors on the ground floor.

LARGE MAPLE SAPLINGS B&G worked closely with Curtis Powers of Greenview Landscaping to install and maintain 10 large-caliper maple trees: eight around the new Playground, and two in front of the Rectory. Curtis planted these trees in May at cost, so St. Andrew’s reaped a huge savings. B&G expresses its deep thanks to Curtis for this generous gift, and to the many parishioners who funded the trees. This whole project was done off-budget.

For the rest of 2016 B&G liaised with Curtis and the Playground Committee to maintain a watering schedule for the saplings, each of which has two gators around its trunk. That schedule was tweaked in accordance with how each maple responded to the climate, the sandy soil, and the frequency and volume of water. The maples seem likely to survive their first winter on the St. Andrew’s campus.

2310 HOUSE AND RECTORY In June the 2310 house was rented to a young couple with a toddler. B&G spent much time, energy, and money in painting that old structure and fixing problems there. These included an infestation of field mice, which were living in the stove. After several visits Conner’s Pest Control sealed the many points of entry. That done, B&G installed a new gas stove. Due to heavy traffic in the Upper Parking Lots, we cautioned user groups to ask their members to drive slowly, especially near the 2310 house, and to be alert to children and four-legged critters. That message appears to have sunk in.

The Rectory remained our most durable, cheapest-to-maintain structure. Beyond routine cleaning of gutters/downspouts and plumbing repairs, we only had to fix the dishwasher door and replace a new motor in the fancoil unit of the family room.

NEW CLEANING COMPANY Last year was the first full year for Spring Cleaning & Maintenance [SCM], Inc., with which St. Andrew’s signed a contract in late 2015. Jim spent a lot of time sending feedback to the owners/managers of SCM, who in turn instructed their workers. Parish Administrator Susan Lyobachov, who spends more time in St. Andrew’s than all B&G members combined, was extremely helpful in liaising with SCM staff and vendors. This fall we bought from SCM eight bags of a new product to combat ice/snow buildup on our walkways and treadstones.

HVAC SYSTEMS Carrier maintained our aging HVAC systems under its annual maintenance contract. In consultation with B&G, Carrier in August proposed to add annual maintenance of [a] the 41 fancoil units on all three floors of the Church and [b] the eight convection units in the ceilings of the Renehan Center classrooms. At $ 4,580.00, this proposal is pricey but still cheaper than our current course of fixing and replacing legacy units on an ad hoc basis. This proposal may be implemented in 2017. For large, unexpected HVAC bills B&G continued to draw on the Donnelly Building Fund. For example, we used that Fund to pay a Carrier bill of $ 2,427.00 to replace the broken metal float in the cooling tower.


ADVENTURES B&G had many other adventures in 2016, e.g.:

—In March we moved ‘A. J. Oakey,’ a sapling descended from the Great White Oak that once towered over St. Andrew’s, from the rear fringe of the Upper Parking Lot to the Memorial Garden, where it first left acorn hood. Harry Amos inspired and supervised this return.

—In June, using funds provided by an angel, Billy Nunley of Great Outdoors Landscaping repaired the dilapidated treadstones of the front portico. Result: a safer, more attractive walking surface. [B&G also received from Billy a proposal to do similar masonry repairs for the front stoop and walkway of the Rectory.]

—In August, we moved two long pews from the Undercroft back to the Chapel, from which B&G had taken them several years ago when the Family Service wanted more floor space. This year the Family Service wanted more seating space. These pews were taken originally from the Nave when the Vestry decided to create more space by removing a few front rows. Other pews still line long walls of the Undercroft; they date from a much earlier Vestry decision to expand floor space in the rear of the Nave. There is always some use for solid cherry pews.

—In October, we resolved a problem showing the linkage of issues in our old building. The ceiling of the ladies’ bathroom near the kitchen had long shown water stains. We discovered that those stains were caused by water not from the Memorial Garden, as first surmised, but from a leaking fancoil unit in the Rector’s office on the floor above. Various workers blew clear the drainage tube of that unit, cleaned its condensate pan with a wet vac, and shimmed its housing to tilt in the right direction. Once the area dried out, our painter repaired the ceiling and installed a spring-loaded hatch so that henceforth one can peer easily into the vast space between floors.

—In December a plumber from Chandler’s diagnosed the cause of bad odors emanating from the piscina in the Main Sacristy. He prescribed baking soda, vinegar, and frequent flushing with H2O. If those steps fail to dispel the fumes, he may have to install a water trap under the counter.

—Not every adventure ended well, due to the law of unintended consequences. Two examples make this point. In late January Artin Services removed massive snow from the flat roof of the Lounge. The eager shovelers pushed heavy masses down onto the boxwoods and shrubs in the Memorial Garden, causing major damage. Last spring Artin put grids on the mouths of large downspouts hidden inside the Nave wall that faces Military Road, in order to deter buildup of organic matter. A few months later the grids were clogged with leaves, leading to a total blockage in the recessed gutter that caused rain water to pour down the inside of the Chancel wall. In both cases B&G has, one hopes, learned its lesson.

PROACTIVE STEPS As opportunities arise, B&G tries to be proactive. The Undercroft offered several occasions this year. Our electrician replaced burnt-out ballasts and fluorescent bulbs in the legacy ceiling fixtures. For the first time in decades all lights in that huge ceiling work -- even those above the stage. Our handyman rehung the large black-and-white pictures on the much-used [and sometimes abused] rolling dividers, to ensure that they beautify the Undercroft for years to come. In the Nave, B&G inspected the many hinged kneelers and found some 35 that had loose screws and/or total separation on one side. Our handyman fixed those small problems before they became big ones.

Led by Joan Lawrence, B&G is exploring inexpensive ways to replace the long legacy counter in the kitchen. In an ideal world that item, like the cabinetry and indeed the whole kitchen, would be replaced with modern equipment. The counter is hard to clean, and it sags at the seams and around the sinks. We have learned that most replacements would be costly. A second hurdle is the uncertain status of the Sacred Spaces process: B&G does not want to buy a kitchen counter that will be


subsumed in a major expansion of the rear entrance. Once the status of Sacred Spaces becomes clear in 2017, we may look again at that long counter.

The future of our parish depends on many variables. A big one is how the St. Andrew’s relationship evolves with Encore Sound & Stage, now in the second year of its two-year contract to rent the Renehan Center and use the Undercroft and other areas. St. Andrew’s and Encore complement each other: we have rooms large and small, generous off-street parking, and prime location that they rent to support their growing menu of programs for young thespians. Both sides are starting to ponder what more could be done in the context of a new rental contract or a longer-term commitment. To paraphrase what Rick Blaine told Captain Renault at the end Casablanca, St. Andrew’s and Encore have started what may become a beautiful friendship.

FOUR EXHORTATIONS TO READERS First, donate to the Donnelly Building Fund, still a listed option on the weekly pledge cards. Such gifts ensure that St. Andrew’s has the means to keep its physical plant in good condition.

Second, knowing that angels walk among us, some very discreetly indeed, fund special projects that transcend the M&R mandate.

Third, come to B&G’s monthly meetings. We gather in the Lounge at 9:00 a.m. on the first or second Saturday of each month. We offer coffee and pastries, a solid agenda, and good discussion. Attendance is not taken.

Finally, join our ranks. No prior expertise or experience is required. B&G’s plate is full of challenges—some routine, but many exciting. We need an infusion of new blood, because our Old Guard is getting—how to write this delicately?—old. SACRED SPACES Mr. Warren Marton FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR A CAPITAL CAMPAIGN By the end of 2015, the Sacred Spaces Team, with professional assistance from the architect Cox, Graee & Spack, completed the concept design and program planning for a project that addresses the highest priority needs identified by a survey of the congregation in late 2014. The project improves accessibility at the rear entrance of St. Andrew's, including an elevator, and upgrades the undercroft, kitchen and nearby bathrooms. It consists of a set of integrated renovations that could be accomplished by means of a single project, costing $2.1 million, or a series of smaller projects implemented over a longer term.

The project was presented to the Vestry and congregation in late 2015. The Vestry indicated they liked it. However, they were not ready to proceed at that time with the recommended next step of obtaining the service of a professional capital campaign consultant until the annual budget and annual pledges and income became stabilized. They put the project on the table and not on the shelf.

After considerable discussion within the Vestry in the first half of 2016, a decision was taken to carry out a Feasibility Study for a Capital Campaign to fund the proposed project. After evaluating competitive proposals, the Vestry selected the firm of Kirby-Smith Associates with consultants Richie and Rachael Musser. In order to obtain the necessary information for such a study, Richie and Rachael launched a survey of the congregation in mid November 2016 followed by personal interviews. Based upon the survey/interview results, they will be able to gauge the amount of money to be raised and feelings, thoughts and comments from everyone regarding the feasibility of initiating the project.

At year-end most of the survey/interviews were completed, and in January 2017, at the Annual Meeting, Richie will provide a summary of the results and his recommendations for next steps.


“PLOT AGAINST HUNGER” GARDEN & APPLE ORCHARD Mr. Dave Smith St. Andrew’s has been sponsoring a “Plot Against Hunger“ garden for 9 years and our partners at AFAC note that the garden fresh vegetables are well received and greatly appreciated by their clients. Every pound is needed because of the growing client base and the garden is a major contributor to the Plot Against Hunger program for AFAC.

This outreach project attracts volunteers from the Parish along with a substantial number of volunteers from the community (the majority this year). From a 'community gardening' perspective, the Garden has promoted awareness of wholesome, sustainable organic gardening practices among our children and their families and has helped AFAC reach their goal of providing fresh vegetables and fruits for their clients. St. Andrew’s is blessed with a large campus and the garden has been a wonderful way to share our bounty with the community. It has also been a great opportunity for many new gardeners to enjoy the pleasures of gardening while knowing their work and resulting yield will be sincerely appreciated.

Our “Urban” apple orchard consisting of 24 trees, continues to grow. We will need to replace two trees in the Spring, one that did not successfully make it over winter and one that unexpectedly died in the middle of the growing season. Otherwise, the trees are flourishing and yielded a bushel of apples this year. The orchard yields are expected to grow each year as the trees grow and mature.

In 2016, we began the season relatively early on Saturday, April 2 and 9 when we planted kale and cabbages grown in the Smith basement under lights along with donations from local merchants arranged by AFAC. Also in April, the garden was the recipient of a new grape plant along with a treasure trove of seeds from AFAC. We planted radishes, carrots, beets and parsnips. The early crops were deemed a great success. We have continued to pick kale, collards, carrots, and beets throughout most of growing season from these early plants and we are still waiting for the parsnips to mature.

Starting in May we hosted a number of work days and were again the recipient of wonderful pepper plants from the Episcopal School along with donations from local hardware and home improvement chains. The Smith basement garden additionally contributed more tomato, pepper, summer squash, and tomatillos seedlings to finish out the summer garden. In early June, we installed our drip irrigation system to the delight of all the volunteer waterers! The irrigation system also helps to conserve water and keeps the moisture off the foliage effectively combating disease. The watering system was particularly valuable during the periodic July–August–September “drought-like” conditions. We also successfully leveraged the “Signup Genius” website to maintain our water, weeding, and picking schedule throughout the season.

We harvested good yields of organic summer vegetables until frost. Our total yield for the year to date is 2860 pounds! Additionally, St. Andrew’s continues to host a growing Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) produce cooperative every Thursday. The Sinclair’s bring fresh produce from their farm for distribution to subscribers and have produce available for purchase by the community. The Sinclair’s have donated 406 pounds of excess CSA vegetables so far this year. Finally, the Church of Covenant also contributed 13 pounds from their children’s garden!

We attribute our continued success to our loyal volunteers (totaling 10ish) made up of both parishioners and AFAC community volunteers along with various volunteer groups often arranged by AFAC, e.g. Aurora House. Finally, we sincerely appreciate AFAC acquiring donated seeds and connecting us to the Episcopal School for their help providing seedlings.

our vision statement - st. andrew's episcopal … · response of the parish to our feasibility...

Documents