This blog entry consolidates all of the sermons from Northaven's summer "Creation" series one place. If you've got some time to spend, click on the links below, and enjoy what we've been enjoying here at Northaven this summer.
The first two are audio-only. Many of the last ones are video.*
As the series concludes over the next few weeks, I'll add the final installments here.
WEEK ONE The First Genesis Creation Story: "It Is Good"
We begin at the "beginning," unpacking the first of the two creation stories in Genesis. (Genesis 1:1- 2:4). The main point of this story was never to posit a literal six-day creation of the world, but to celebrate the glory of creation itself, and how God calls it all "good."
WEEK TWO The Second Genesis Creation Story: "There's Always A Talking Snake"
The most interesting character in the story of "The Man" and "The Woman" in the Garden of Eden is the "Talking Snake." Never intended to be read as "The Devil" or "Evil Incarnate," the existence of "The Talking Snake" still teaches us a lot about God's good creation.
WEEK THREE "Wonder in Creation, Nature, and Worship"
In week three, we take time to consider the idea of "wonder" and how it is both a powerful part of our appreciate creation/nature, and also a key component of worship. The "wonder" we have about creation is connected to the "wonder" we experience in worshiping God.
WEEK FOUR "Creativity and Process: An Introduction to Process Theology"
A powerful theology that has been helpful to many in the modern period is "Process Theology," which gives us an incredible conceptual frame for understanding HOW God is creative in the world...and what the implications of that are for us. Far from being incompatible with Christian faith, Process Theology can help us to understand the fullness of "The Great Commandment," or "The Golden Rule."
WEEK FIVE "Creativity and Art: A Conversation About the Connection"
Instead of a "normal" sermon, we have a conversation between four artists, about the connection between art, God, and creativity. All four posit that spirituality and artistic creativity are vitally connected. A very interesting morning of conversation about spirituality and art.
NOTE: The audio file for this sermon is current corrupted and unavailable. We are working to see if we can recover it. In the meantime, please enjoy this video of quotes, from artists, about the spiritual life.
WEEK SIX "Faith and Science: Compatible and Complimentary"
This sermon celebrates the connection between science and faith. The thesis is that the same God-given creativity present in art is also what drives scientific discovery. However, before making this point, this sermon debunks the idea that one must choose either science or faith. This sermon suggests that this is a false forced-choice, put forth by fundamentalists in each side of the faith/science divide.
* Because of length, the video sermons were posted in two parts. Be patient at the end of each "Part 1," and Part 2 should auto-load. If not, you can click on a link at the of part one to go to part two on each.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Leadership Council Minutes: July 2011
Northaven United Methodist Church
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
July 26, 2011 7 p.m.
Present: Betty Boyer, Marlene Haskell, Eric Folkerth, Tom Timmins, Dotti Timmins, Betsy Schenck, Shirley Cooper, Laurie Reichanbach, Elaine Wiant, Jim McBride, Dick Weaver and Mindy Dague
Meditation- Dotti Timmins
Betty motioned to approve the June Leadership Retreat minutes and the motion was carried.
Betty discussed the preparation needed by committees for the upcoming Draft Night. Betty thanked the Worship Team for the Creation summer series.
Finance- Elaine said the finances were going very well. The format for the finance report has changed. Percentages of the budget used are now displayed for each budgeted line item. Elaine said that we are right on track with our budget. The Co-op cost sharing was billed and paid in July so there is a variance in the June numbers but will be reflected in next month’s report.
Staff Parish- See Report- Jim McBride reported that the committee will be meeting with the parents of Youth to receive input about Chris Reed’s replacement. Jim met with Kathy Delsanter and reviewed the Co-op’s Teacher Performance Reviews which has been in place.
Covenant Fund- See Report- The Wills and Estate presentation has 28 people signed up. There was advertising in the Dallas Voice which proved to be successful and has increased registration.
Trustees Report- Dick Weaver met with Kathy Delsanter about the Co-op School for an overview of it. In November, Northaven will be sponsoring the Susan G. Korman 3 Day for the Cure. The group will be using the North Parking Lot during the day on Friday, November 4.
Stewardship – See Report- Betty would like for stewardship to be more public for a more extensive amount of time instead of just during the pledge period. Tom commented that he had reviewed the past newsletters and recognizes that we are doing well with the Stewardship Campaigns compared to Northaven’s past history. Tom feels like it needs to be subtle and not a in-your-face approach. Laurie suggested a Town Council meeting approach with Q & A /family style. Betsy suggested using this opportunity for volunteer sign-up and special needs for volunteers. Jim suggested a quarterly article and has concerns about posting financial information on our website. Jim said that it could discourage how much people decide to give depending on our current financial status. Tom reminded us that we had a financial series a couple of years ago called Did You Know? It was a series that addressed how the church funds are distributed. Eric commented that 28 to 38 percent are reading the Northaven Now news that is being sent through Constant Contact each week. Elaine mentioned that she can preview her email without actually opening it so the statistic of actual readership may be even larger. Eric said there is more detail in a printed newsletter. Chris asked if there is a tracking method of seeing who opens the newsletter on the new website. Eric said that the feature should be available soon. Eric suggested that every medium should be used on a quarterly basis when communicating information. Dotti asked if there is follow-up with new members about pledging. There was a consensus that there is a need to do so. Mindy commented that pledging information is in the new member packets and that we use to put the Did you Know? booklet in each packet for new members to read.
.
Black Tie – See Report- Total expenses came to $546.79 for the BBQ Luncheon and approximately 158 people attended. Eleven raffle tickets were sold during the event. Currently, Northaven has sold 41 tickets and have met our obligation. We are now over the $400 plus mark and will continue selling tickets. The star of Modern Family, Jesse Tyler Ferguson will be presented the Media Award at the Black Tie Dinner and stand-up Comedian, Caroline Rhea,will be the Master of Ceremonies. Laurie reminded us that only 2,000 tickets are sold at $100 apiece. Laurie believes that we have already sold at least 5 tables which meets our requirement. The Minister’s table is needing a donor. The Minister’s table is important because Eric invites others to attend from the community to share the experience and the message behind the Black Tie Dinner event. Laurie will continue looking for a donor. The BTD committee asked the Council for 3-4 tickets to be purchased for Staff who is interested in going. The recommendation was approved.
History Project- See Report- Tom Timmins said that we have 2 bids for the cover and binding of the booklet.
Program Council- Hasn’t met since the Leadership Retreat. Several committees have met during this time. DACPA will be at the plaza at 5 pm for a Prayer gathering. On August 14, the CIS sponsored-El Salvador Mission Trip Sharing/and Godparenting luncheon is scheduled. The Pride parade is on September 18. The Faith Voices of Justice committee is working on the fall programs. Membership met and discussed concerns and discussed ways to follow up and connect better with absent members. Feast of Beginnings is a work in progress. It is tentatively scheduled for September 18.
Staff Reports
Office Administrator (Mindy) - The Church’s copier has been upgraded and the old copier went to the Co-op School. There will be a savings of $1,800 per year. The Co-op School will have the opportunity to print in color for the first time. For the first time, we handled the summer camp payroll. Everything ran smoothly. Contribution statements will be mailed out within the next week.
Youth Director (Chris Reed)-The Youth have been enjoying the Wednesday social events and the next one will be playing Laser tag. UMYF will be discussing the Guatemala mission trip experience and sharing photos. It will be open to anyone who wants to attend. The Youth portion of the website has been updated. The mission trip expenses were under budget. Going forward, there will be a back to school retreat planned on Labor Day weekend and Eric and Mary Clair will be leading it. Chris talked to the Youth about his resignation and he felt that it went well. Chris is moving into the last year of his classes. He is still deciding on what direction he wants to take. He is considering a PhD. in the field of Ethics. Chris is looking at his options in ministry that works outside of the church. Chris will serve an internship after he completes his classes this year. Chris is developing a web-based legal site that is showing promise.
Spiritual Formation (Eric Reported for Mary Clair)-Sunday School teachers for K2 have backed out and are looking for replacements. Vacation Bible School is next week. The Uppity Women series has been a big hit. Eric said that he hopes they continue the series.
Music and the Arts (Eric Reported for Stephanie) - The Choir and Ringleiders are taking a break in July and will be back to it in August. Ringlieders start back late August. They may need to split groups in half due to the group being so large. There will be a special commemoration for 9/11. The Music and Arts department is forming a music ministry team including Michael Hawn. They will be surveying the congregation and Stephanie is currently working on forming the new team. They will be looking at where we are now and where we will be going.
Senior Pastor (Eric) - Administrative news- Tricia is no longer working with us and Stephanie Stevens will be taking on that role. Stephanie will be working on Mondays and Tuesdays and will be formatting the newsletter. The Northaven trail will be developed with Northaven at the end of the trail for now. The master plan is to extend the trail past us and Northaven is concerned about future parking arrangements. Eric commented that people will park their cars and then will cycle down the trail. Sunday is a big day for cyclist as well as church services. There could be a problem since Northaven has no extra parking at this time. There is a Northaven Friends Group working on the trail issues with 2 other neighborhood groups. Eric heard from them recently and will be meeting with them soon. Eric feels strongly about talking about the issues now before problems occur. Interesting events are coming up this fall. The Charge Conference is October 30, 6 pm at Preston Hollow UMC this year. We have 3 additional interesting events-October 14-16 is the Reuben Habito Spiritual Retreat; the following weekend is honoring Jane Marshall and will include a Jane Marshall Concert on October 23, at 4 pm; Rev. Jimmy Creech, who had orders removed in Nebraska, will be coming to speak at Northaven as part of the Faith Justice Series this fall. Eccumenical service are being planned that will include 4 neighborhood churches on November 20.
Betty Boyer announced that September 20 is Draft night and Aug 23 is the next Leadership meeting.
Closing Prayer
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
July 26, 2011 7 p.m.
Present: Betty Boyer, Marlene Haskell, Eric Folkerth, Tom Timmins, Dotti Timmins, Betsy Schenck, Shirley Cooper, Laurie Reichanbach, Elaine Wiant, Jim McBride, Dick Weaver and Mindy Dague
Meditation- Dotti Timmins
Betty motioned to approve the June Leadership Retreat minutes and the motion was carried.
Betty discussed the preparation needed by committees for the upcoming Draft Night. Betty thanked the Worship Team for the Creation summer series.
Finance- Elaine said the finances were going very well. The format for the finance report has changed. Percentages of the budget used are now displayed for each budgeted line item. Elaine said that we are right on track with our budget. The Co-op cost sharing was billed and paid in July so there is a variance in the June numbers but will be reflected in next month’s report.
Staff Parish- See Report- Jim McBride reported that the committee will be meeting with the parents of Youth to receive input about Chris Reed’s replacement. Jim met with Kathy Delsanter and reviewed the Co-op’s Teacher Performance Reviews which has been in place.
Covenant Fund- See Report- The Wills and Estate presentation has 28 people signed up. There was advertising in the Dallas Voice which proved to be successful and has increased registration.
Trustees Report- Dick Weaver met with Kathy Delsanter about the Co-op School for an overview of it. In November, Northaven will be sponsoring the Susan G. Korman 3 Day for the Cure. The group will be using the North Parking Lot during the day on Friday, November 4.
Stewardship – See Report- Betty would like for stewardship to be more public for a more extensive amount of time instead of just during the pledge period. Tom commented that he had reviewed the past newsletters and recognizes that we are doing well with the Stewardship Campaigns compared to Northaven’s past history. Tom feels like it needs to be subtle and not a in-your-face approach. Laurie suggested a Town Council meeting approach with Q & A /family style. Betsy suggested using this opportunity for volunteer sign-up and special needs for volunteers. Jim suggested a quarterly article and has concerns about posting financial information on our website. Jim said that it could discourage how much people decide to give depending on our current financial status. Tom reminded us that we had a financial series a couple of years ago called Did You Know? It was a series that addressed how the church funds are distributed. Eric commented that 28 to 38 percent are reading the Northaven Now news that is being sent through Constant Contact each week. Elaine mentioned that she can preview her email without actually opening it so the statistic of actual readership may be even larger. Eric said there is more detail in a printed newsletter. Chris asked if there is a tracking method of seeing who opens the newsletter on the new website. Eric said that the feature should be available soon. Eric suggested that every medium should be used on a quarterly basis when communicating information. Dotti asked if there is follow-up with new members about pledging. There was a consensus that there is a need to do so. Mindy commented that pledging information is in the new member packets and that we use to put the Did you Know? booklet in each packet for new members to read.
.
Black Tie – See Report- Total expenses came to $546.79 for the BBQ Luncheon and approximately 158 people attended. Eleven raffle tickets were sold during the event. Currently, Northaven has sold 41 tickets and have met our obligation. We are now over the $400 plus mark and will continue selling tickets. The star of Modern Family, Jesse Tyler Ferguson will be presented the Media Award at the Black Tie Dinner and stand-up Comedian, Caroline Rhea,will be the Master of Ceremonies. Laurie reminded us that only 2,000 tickets are sold at $100 apiece. Laurie believes that we have already sold at least 5 tables which meets our requirement. The Minister’s table is needing a donor. The Minister’s table is important because Eric invites others to attend from the community to share the experience and the message behind the Black Tie Dinner event. Laurie will continue looking for a donor. The BTD committee asked the Council for 3-4 tickets to be purchased for Staff who is interested in going. The recommendation was approved.
History Project- See Report- Tom Timmins said that we have 2 bids for the cover and binding of the booklet.
Program Council- Hasn’t met since the Leadership Retreat. Several committees have met during this time. DACPA will be at the plaza at 5 pm for a Prayer gathering. On August 14, the CIS sponsored-El Salvador Mission Trip Sharing/and Godparenting luncheon is scheduled. The Pride parade is on September 18. The Faith Voices of Justice committee is working on the fall programs. Membership met and discussed concerns and discussed ways to follow up and connect better with absent members. Feast of Beginnings is a work in progress. It is tentatively scheduled for September 18.
Staff Reports
Office Administrator (Mindy) - The Church’s copier has been upgraded and the old copier went to the Co-op School. There will be a savings of $1,800 per year. The Co-op School will have the opportunity to print in color for the first time. For the first time, we handled the summer camp payroll. Everything ran smoothly. Contribution statements will be mailed out within the next week.
Youth Director (Chris Reed)-The Youth have been enjoying the Wednesday social events and the next one will be playing Laser tag. UMYF will be discussing the Guatemala mission trip experience and sharing photos. It will be open to anyone who wants to attend. The Youth portion of the website has been updated. The mission trip expenses were under budget. Going forward, there will be a back to school retreat planned on Labor Day weekend and Eric and Mary Clair will be leading it. Chris talked to the Youth about his resignation and he felt that it went well. Chris is moving into the last year of his classes. He is still deciding on what direction he wants to take. He is considering a PhD. in the field of Ethics. Chris is looking at his options in ministry that works outside of the church. Chris will serve an internship after he completes his classes this year. Chris is developing a web-based legal site that is showing promise.
Spiritual Formation (Eric Reported for Mary Clair)-Sunday School teachers for K2 have backed out and are looking for replacements. Vacation Bible School is next week. The Uppity Women series has been a big hit. Eric said that he hopes they continue the series.
Music and the Arts (Eric Reported for Stephanie) - The Choir and Ringleiders are taking a break in July and will be back to it in August. Ringlieders start back late August. They may need to split groups in half due to the group being so large. There will be a special commemoration for 9/11. The Music and Arts department is forming a music ministry team including Michael Hawn. They will be surveying the congregation and Stephanie is currently working on forming the new team. They will be looking at where we are now and where we will be going.
Senior Pastor (Eric) - Administrative news- Tricia is no longer working with us and Stephanie Stevens will be taking on that role. Stephanie will be working on Mondays and Tuesdays and will be formatting the newsletter. The Northaven trail will be developed with Northaven at the end of the trail for now. The master plan is to extend the trail past us and Northaven is concerned about future parking arrangements. Eric commented that people will park their cars and then will cycle down the trail. Sunday is a big day for cyclist as well as church services. There could be a problem since Northaven has no extra parking at this time. There is a Northaven Friends Group working on the trail issues with 2 other neighborhood groups. Eric heard from them recently and will be meeting with them soon. Eric feels strongly about talking about the issues now before problems occur. Interesting events are coming up this fall. The Charge Conference is October 30, 6 pm at Preston Hollow UMC this year. We have 3 additional interesting events-October 14-16 is the Reuben Habito Spiritual Retreat; the following weekend is honoring Jane Marshall and will include a Jane Marshall Concert on October 23, at 4 pm; Rev. Jimmy Creech, who had orders removed in Nebraska, will be coming to speak at Northaven as part of the Faith Justice Series this fall. Eccumenical service are being planned that will include 4 neighborhood churches on November 20.
Betty Boyer announced that September 20 is Draft night and Aug 23 is the next Leadership meeting.
Closing Prayer
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Mid-Year Leadership Planning Meeting
Mid-Year Leadership Planning Meeting
June 11, 2011
Present - Kate Anderson, Betty Boyer, Marty Brownlie, Shirley Cooper, Mindy Dague, Eric Folkerth, , Marlene Haskell, Joe Hilbun, Terry Lowery, Mary Clair Lowrance, Susie Marshall, Connie Marshall, Jim McBride, Sherry Meeks, Randall Oxford, Chris Reed, Laurie Reichenbach, Stephanie Rhoades, Betsy Schenck, Dotti Timmins, Tom Timmins, Dick Weaver, Elaine Wiant, Ken Benson, and Karen Marshall
Coffee & Snacks
Opening Prayer - Eric Folkerth
Group Introductions - Betty Boyer
Housekeeping - Betty Boyer, Eric Folkerth and Mindy Dague
The Big Picture - Moving to a Program Council Church and Northaven History - Ken Benson and Tom Timmins
Tom has spent the past several months working on a history of Northaven and he gave the group some highlights. There was a suggestion that we consider having an official historian to continue archiving the good works of Northaven. Ken gave the group information about moving from a relationship church to a program size church.
RDS - What the database can do for you and what you can do for the database- Tom Timmins
Tom talked about the importance of being sure the information in our database is accurate. He will print each committee list for the various chairs to correct. Betty requested that correct information be returned to Tom by July 15th.
Website - The New Look - Randall Oxford
Randall walked the group through the major changes in the website and gave some insight into why changes were made. Betty asked that each committee review and edit their web pages by July 15. E-mail corrections and changes should be sent to Nancy Kincaid and/or Bob Meeks.
The goal is to give each committee the ability to update their web pages as needed.
Leadership Council Committees –What we do and why you should care - Betty Boyer
(The HDF is still looking for someone to Chair their committee and the position needs to be filled by September, 2011)
Committees reported to the group on the purpose of each individual committee: Lay Leader, Covenant Funds, Finance, Stewardship, Staff Parish, Human Development Fund, Trustees, Lay Member of Annual Conference, Co-op Representative, Lay Speaker, Black Tie, Loan Committee, Newsletter, Program Council Chair, and Leadership Council Chair
Program Council - What we have done since January and our goals moving forward - Marlene Haskell
The following Committees reported to the group:
Communications - There is a new church website; an update to the current church directory is in progress with plans to include photographs of new members; there are plans to discuss a branding campaign; there are plans for discussing the permanent installation of Northaven’s new projectors; the committee is working on developing a future crisis communications plan for the church.
Adult Education - There are continued spiritual growth opportunities with a first time summer booklet that has been made available to visitors and members; the committee is currently working on the fall Adult Education brochure; the Rueben Habito Retreat is scheduled for October 14-16; there will be upcoming 3rd Thursday discussions about adult education issues, small group webinars, etc.
Youth Education - Fundraising efforts have continued all year, including a Pancake Dinner and the continued selling of Youth bonds. The Youth Mission trip to San Marcos is June 12-18. There will be monthly socials due to increased budget. The goal is to have 2 socials per month going forward. A Youth retreat is being planned for Youth to attend before school starts.
Children’s Education – (Karen Marshall reported for Kristen Brandt-James) VBS is intergenerational again this year and will continue being offered in the evening, August 1-5; a reminder was given that Sunday School is every week all year long; the committee is still struggling with curriculum issues and is wanting outside help at this time; there is a need for additional summer school teachers this year.
Membership - (Marlene reported for Janice Henderson) The Great Day of Joining and quarterly New Member Desserts have been featured this year; Marlene expressed the need for better follow-up with new members; a shepherding program began a few years ago but is not currently active; Marlene expressed concern that the committee hasn’t been meeting regularly and really needs to.
Church in Society - There was an Offering of Letters held during Lent; the This I Know group has been promoting the DVD film and study and would like the congregational members to take their program and each graduate will receive a This I Know sticker on their Northaven Church name tag; the Journey-Coming Out Workshop was offered in the spring and had great attendance and will be offered again in the fall; the Straight Spouse Network is now being offered; there are two international mission trips scheduled this year going to Guatemala and El Salvador; there is a continued covenant relationship with the Christ Foundry and Mike Pybas has continued to be the liaison for Northaven; Northaven signed up for one month of taking meals to the Christ Foundry’s meetings in February; the Faith Voices of Justice series, successfully led by Bill McElvaney, has been offered this year; the Reconciling Ministries was trained by the Reconciling Network and over 30 people wore their rainbow stoles at the Annual Conference this summer; a position was created for a liaison between CIS and Parents Reconciling Network; the Pride Parade will be Sept. 18 and the Alternative Christmas Giving will be offered again in December.
Lunch - Thanks to Rita Clarke and Kaye Warrick
Continuation of Program Council - Marlene Haskell
Worship - Stephanie is now the new Minister of Music and the Arts and is looking for people to attend the Hymn Festival, honoring Jane Marshall, on Sunday, October 23; an Ecumenical Thanksgiving service will be offered at Northaven that is involving 4 outside churches; a church survey will be conducted that is focusing on Music and the Arts to help shape our future direction with Stephanie’s involvement.
Arts – (Connie Marshall reported for Donna Wiles) The Shower of Stoles exhibit was featured at Northaven in May; the Women’s Retreat was offered in the spring and 26 women attended.
Care Team – (Mary Clair Lowrance reported for Lynette Hendricks) The committee decided to have less meetings this year and to focus more on taking action; a Tuesday note goes out with prayer concerns each week; prayer blankets have been given to several members and special requests have been honored throughout the year.
Special Events - The Feast of Friendship is on Saturday this year, June 25 with a planned reception afterwards; the Youth will be feeding the Russian Dancers dinner; Dance classes are being offered this year; a bridge group has formed;
Kitchen/Hospitality - More people are active on the committee this year and there is now a back-up group; the committee is encouraging the whole church to be aware of the “No Nuts” policy regarding food products that are brought to the church; there is a standing request for committees to alert Sherry Meeks as soon as possible when materials in the kitchen have been used, so she can restock supplies by Sunday each week.
Additional remarks –
Dotti Timmins reminded the group that the trustees will be sponsoring a Wills and Estate Seminar on July 31 that will include lunch.
Connie Marshall requested that the church consider the possibility of purchasing a dishwasher and promoting the use of permanent kitchenware instead of using paper plates, cutlery and cups.
Susie Marshall raised the concern of honey bees and their importance to the food chain. Perhaps Northaven can be part of the solution.
Karen Marshall raised the suggestion of having a community garden.
Eric gave special thanks to Betty and Marlene for organizing the planning meeting. Eric expressed appreciation that Betty has been attending committee meetings as Leadership Chair to see how each committee works.
Closing Prayer- Mary Clair Lowrance
June 11, 2011
Present - Kate Anderson, Betty Boyer, Marty Brownlie, Shirley Cooper, Mindy Dague, Eric Folkerth, , Marlene Haskell, Joe Hilbun, Terry Lowery, Mary Clair Lowrance, Susie Marshall, Connie Marshall, Jim McBride, Sherry Meeks, Randall Oxford, Chris Reed, Laurie Reichenbach, Stephanie Rhoades, Betsy Schenck, Dotti Timmins, Tom Timmins, Dick Weaver, Elaine Wiant, Ken Benson, and Karen Marshall
Coffee & Snacks
Opening Prayer - Eric Folkerth
Group Introductions - Betty Boyer
Housekeeping - Betty Boyer, Eric Folkerth and Mindy Dague
The Big Picture - Moving to a Program Council Church and Northaven History - Ken Benson and Tom Timmins
Tom has spent the past several months working on a history of Northaven and he gave the group some highlights. There was a suggestion that we consider having an official historian to continue archiving the good works of Northaven. Ken gave the group information about moving from a relationship church to a program size church.
RDS - What the database can do for you and what you can do for the database- Tom Timmins
Tom talked about the importance of being sure the information in our database is accurate. He will print each committee list for the various chairs to correct. Betty requested that correct information be returned to Tom by July 15th.
Website - The New Look - Randall Oxford
Randall walked the group through the major changes in the website and gave some insight into why changes were made. Betty asked that each committee review and edit their web pages by July 15. E-mail corrections and changes should be sent to Nancy Kincaid and/or Bob Meeks.
The goal is to give each committee the ability to update their web pages as needed.
Leadership Council Committees –What we do and why you should care - Betty Boyer
(The HDF is still looking for someone to Chair their committee and the position needs to be filled by September, 2011)
Committees reported to the group on the purpose of each individual committee: Lay Leader, Covenant Funds, Finance, Stewardship, Staff Parish, Human Development Fund, Trustees, Lay Member of Annual Conference, Co-op Representative, Lay Speaker, Black Tie, Loan Committee, Newsletter, Program Council Chair, and Leadership Council Chair
Program Council - What we have done since January and our goals moving forward - Marlene Haskell
The following Committees reported to the group:
Communications - There is a new church website; an update to the current church directory is in progress with plans to include photographs of new members; there are plans to discuss a branding campaign; there are plans for discussing the permanent installation of Northaven’s new projectors; the committee is working on developing a future crisis communications plan for the church.
Adult Education - There are continued spiritual growth opportunities with a first time summer booklet that has been made available to visitors and members; the committee is currently working on the fall Adult Education brochure; the Rueben Habito Retreat is scheduled for October 14-16; there will be upcoming 3rd Thursday discussions about adult education issues, small group webinars, etc.
Youth Education - Fundraising efforts have continued all year, including a Pancake Dinner and the continued selling of Youth bonds. The Youth Mission trip to San Marcos is June 12-18. There will be monthly socials due to increased budget. The goal is to have 2 socials per month going forward. A Youth retreat is being planned for Youth to attend before school starts.
Children’s Education – (Karen Marshall reported for Kristen Brandt-James) VBS is intergenerational again this year and will continue being offered in the evening, August 1-5; a reminder was given that Sunday School is every week all year long; the committee is still struggling with curriculum issues and is wanting outside help at this time; there is a need for additional summer school teachers this year.
Membership - (Marlene reported for Janice Henderson) The Great Day of Joining and quarterly New Member Desserts have been featured this year; Marlene expressed the need for better follow-up with new members; a shepherding program began a few years ago but is not currently active; Marlene expressed concern that the committee hasn’t been meeting regularly and really needs to.
Church in Society - There was an Offering of Letters held during Lent; the This I Know group has been promoting the DVD film and study and would like the congregational members to take their program and each graduate will receive a This I Know sticker on their Northaven Church name tag; the Journey-Coming Out Workshop was offered in the spring and had great attendance and will be offered again in the fall; the Straight Spouse Network is now being offered; there are two international mission trips scheduled this year going to Guatemala and El Salvador; there is a continued covenant relationship with the Christ Foundry and Mike Pybas has continued to be the liaison for Northaven; Northaven signed up for one month of taking meals to the Christ Foundry’s meetings in February; the Faith Voices of Justice series, successfully led by Bill McElvaney, has been offered this year; the Reconciling Ministries was trained by the Reconciling Network and over 30 people wore their rainbow stoles at the Annual Conference this summer; a position was created for a liaison between CIS and Parents Reconciling Network; the Pride Parade will be Sept. 18 and the Alternative Christmas Giving will be offered again in December.
Lunch - Thanks to Rita Clarke and Kaye Warrick
Continuation of Program Council - Marlene Haskell
Worship - Stephanie is now the new Minister of Music and the Arts and is looking for people to attend the Hymn Festival, honoring Jane Marshall, on Sunday, October 23; an Ecumenical Thanksgiving service will be offered at Northaven that is involving 4 outside churches; a church survey will be conducted that is focusing on Music and the Arts to help shape our future direction with Stephanie’s involvement.
Arts – (Connie Marshall reported for Donna Wiles) The Shower of Stoles exhibit was featured at Northaven in May; the Women’s Retreat was offered in the spring and 26 women attended.
Care Team – (Mary Clair Lowrance reported for Lynette Hendricks) The committee decided to have less meetings this year and to focus more on taking action; a Tuesday note goes out with prayer concerns each week; prayer blankets have been given to several members and special requests have been honored throughout the year.
Special Events - The Feast of Friendship is on Saturday this year, June 25 with a planned reception afterwards; the Youth will be feeding the Russian Dancers dinner; Dance classes are being offered this year; a bridge group has formed;
Kitchen/Hospitality - More people are active on the committee this year and there is now a back-up group; the committee is encouraging the whole church to be aware of the “No Nuts” policy regarding food products that are brought to the church; there is a standing request for committees to alert Sherry Meeks as soon as possible when materials in the kitchen have been used, so she can restock supplies by Sunday each week.
Additional remarks –
Dotti Timmins reminded the group that the trustees will be sponsoring a Wills and Estate Seminar on July 31 that will include lunch.
Connie Marshall requested that the church consider the possibility of purchasing a dishwasher and promoting the use of permanent kitchenware instead of using paper plates, cutlery and cups.
Susie Marshall raised the concern of honey bees and their importance to the food chain. Perhaps Northaven can be part of the solution.
Karen Marshall raised the suggestion of having a community garden.
Eric gave special thanks to Betty and Marlene for organizing the planning meeting. Eric expressed appreciation that Betty has been attending committee meetings as Leadership Chair to see how each committee works.
Closing Prayer- Mary Clair Lowrance
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Leadership Council Minutes: May 2011
Northaven United Methodist Church
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
May 24, 2011- 7 p.m.
Those Present: Betty Boyer, Mindy Dague, Kathy Delsanter, Eric Folkerth, Marlene Haskell, Terry Lowery, Jim McBride, Chris Reed, Dotti, Timmins, Tom Timmins, Dick Weaver, and Elaine Wiant
Betty motioned to approve the minutes and the motion was carried.
Leadership Chair’s Remarks:
Betty mentioned the following upcoming events:
Draft night will be in the evening on Tuesday, September 20.
Updating the Hymnals will be on June 12 after church.
Annual Conference will begin June 5, 6-6:30 p.m., so please come, participate and wear a reconciling stole.
Meditation
Leadership Council Reports:
Finance Report- See Income Statement
Terry Lowery reported that we are $7800 higher in income than expected this month. Terry attended Program Council and felt it was productive. Elaine said the finances were going very well.
Staff Parish- See Report
Covenant Fund-
Dottie Timmins reported that the Covenant Fund will be offering a class on Wills and Estates on July 31 at 12:30 p.m. The Arbor in the Celebration Garden should be completed this summer.
Trustees Report-
Dick Weaver reported that Northaven is currently on the North Texas Conference plan for electricity and is planning on making a change after Northaven’s contract has ended. The group is planning on making a final decision on which electric company to sign up with at their next Trustees meeting. The Trustees have already informed the conference about Northaven’s future plans. The Co-op’s awning has been installed and everyone is happy with it but Kathy reported that there is a flow of water coming down off of the awning when it rains so the company that installed it is coming back to fix the problem. Frank Effland will be notified.
Stewardship- No Report
Co-op Liaison-
There are summer camp availabilities and a new Co-op website is in development.
Black Tie Dinner –
The all church BBQ, Sunday, July 10 needs help with cleanup and setup.
The next BTD meeting will be on June 14.
Dick Weaver mentioned that BTD scholarships are available and an application is available on the BTD website. The scholarships are not 100% but are still substantial. There was discussion about publicizing this to Northaven church members.
Program Council-
Marlene Haskell reported that there have been questions in the past concerning the budget and decided that it was best if the Finance Chair would attend the Program Council meeting to answer current questions people may have. The Council members appreciated Terry Lowery coming to their meeting to discuss more in depth how each committee’s budget works. The Council members looked at the new website on the overhead projector and reviewed the church calendar together at their last meeting. This encouraged a productive and interactive discussion and helped committees to catch possible conflicts and things that still needed to be done. VBS was profiled.
Northaven’s History Project- Tom Timmins said that it was going well. The idea of working on Northaven’s history began when Tom Timmins wanted to prepare a report for the Leadership Retreat this summer but found that the project proved very challenging since we have information dating back approximately 50 years. It became clear that the historical project should be presented in a more formal and permanent format. Mary Beth Rogers volunteered to be the Editor of the project. She has an impressive background in working with former Governor, Ann Richards. There will be an individual chapter for each pastor. Tom has already met with printers for printer specs on a booklet that will be put together. There will be an addendum at the back of the booklet called Learnings that will reflect on those things that Northaven has leaned over the years. Tom is still deciding on how many copies need to be printed and is working on finding money in the budget to help pay for it. The project will be offered as a Video too. There are various recordings from past pastors, including Bill Holme’s sermon after the Kennedy assignation. Digital photography is readily available during the Folkerth years. There will be stand alone video for each pastor. The video will be edited down for the final version. A teaser should be available by the Leadership Retreat.
Staff Reports
Co-op School Report-
Kathy Delsanter reported that the last day of school is May 25.
Office Administrator- No Report
Youth Director-
Chris Reed reported that the Youth viewed the Shower of Stoles project last Sunday. There will one more Youth bond sale this Sunday. UMYF will not be meeting this Sunday since it is Memorial Weekend. The Youth are getting ready for Annual Conference and will participate at the opening. The Youth’s Mission Trip to San Marcos begins on June 11. There will be a swim party after the Youth return from their mission trip. The Leadership Council thanked Chris for Youth Sunday and commented on how nice it was.
Worship and Arts-
Eric Folkerth reported that Stephanie Rhoades will begin as the new Music Minister of Music & the Arts on June 1. There will be a Welcoming Reception and Litany for her on June 5. This year’s summer series will steer away from the Chautauqua name because it is associated with camp music and this summer the focus will be on the theme The Glory of god’s Creation- As a part of spirituality. It will be an 8-week series that will include a week on Scriptures, Creativity and Science, Creativity and Art, Destruction of Nature, etc. The Northaven Choir will be off only during the month of July.
Spiritual Formation-
Eric Folkerth reported that the VBS Committee has met twice already. This year VBS will be discussing the Parables of Jesus. Each night will focus on one parable and the group will discuss what they learn from it. The Faith Voices of Justice program on May 19, Tested: Stories of Faith and Justice featured several of the Exonerees and was well attended with over 100 people. There was a potluck dinner with Exonerees and Craig Watkins, the current Dallas County D.A. arrived as a surprise guest.
Senior Pastor-
Eric Folkerth reported that the North Texas Annual Conference will begin June 5 and there will be discussions of upcoming elections at General Conference and the Jurisdictional Conference. There will be computerized voting this year.
Closing Prayer
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
May 24, 2011- 7 p.m.
Those Present: Betty Boyer, Mindy Dague, Kathy Delsanter, Eric Folkerth, Marlene Haskell, Terry Lowery, Jim McBride, Chris Reed, Dotti, Timmins, Tom Timmins, Dick Weaver, and Elaine Wiant
Betty motioned to approve the minutes and the motion was carried.
Leadership Chair’s Remarks:
Betty mentioned the following upcoming events:
Draft night will be in the evening on Tuesday, September 20.
Updating the Hymnals will be on June 12 after church.
Annual Conference will begin June 5, 6-6:30 p.m., so please come, participate and wear a reconciling stole.
Meditation
Leadership Council Reports:
Finance Report- See Income Statement
Terry Lowery reported that we are $7800 higher in income than expected this month. Terry attended Program Council and felt it was productive. Elaine said the finances were going very well.
Staff Parish- See Report
Covenant Fund-
Dottie Timmins reported that the Covenant Fund will be offering a class on Wills and Estates on July 31 at 12:30 p.m. The Arbor in the Celebration Garden should be completed this summer.
Trustees Report-
Dick Weaver reported that Northaven is currently on the North Texas Conference plan for electricity and is planning on making a change after Northaven’s contract has ended. The group is planning on making a final decision on which electric company to sign up with at their next Trustees meeting. The Trustees have already informed the conference about Northaven’s future plans. The Co-op’s awning has been installed and everyone is happy with it but Kathy reported that there is a flow of water coming down off of the awning when it rains so the company that installed it is coming back to fix the problem. Frank Effland will be notified.
Stewardship- No Report
Co-op Liaison-
There are summer camp availabilities and a new Co-op website is in development.
Black Tie Dinner –
The all church BBQ, Sunday, July 10 needs help with cleanup and setup.
The next BTD meeting will be on June 14.
Dick Weaver mentioned that BTD scholarships are available and an application is available on the BTD website. The scholarships are not 100% but are still substantial. There was discussion about publicizing this to Northaven church members.
Program Council-
Marlene Haskell reported that there have been questions in the past concerning the budget and decided that it was best if the Finance Chair would attend the Program Council meeting to answer current questions people may have. The Council members appreciated Terry Lowery coming to their meeting to discuss more in depth how each committee’s budget works. The Council members looked at the new website on the overhead projector and reviewed the church calendar together at their last meeting. This encouraged a productive and interactive discussion and helped committees to catch possible conflicts and things that still needed to be done. VBS was profiled.
Northaven’s History Project- Tom Timmins said that it was going well. The idea of working on Northaven’s history began when Tom Timmins wanted to prepare a report for the Leadership Retreat this summer but found that the project proved very challenging since we have information dating back approximately 50 years. It became clear that the historical project should be presented in a more formal and permanent format. Mary Beth Rogers volunteered to be the Editor of the project. She has an impressive background in working with former Governor, Ann Richards. There will be an individual chapter for each pastor. Tom has already met with printers for printer specs on a booklet that will be put together. There will be an addendum at the back of the booklet called Learnings that will reflect on those things that Northaven has leaned over the years. Tom is still deciding on how many copies need to be printed and is working on finding money in the budget to help pay for it. The project will be offered as a Video too. There are various recordings from past pastors, including Bill Holme’s sermon after the Kennedy assignation. Digital photography is readily available during the Folkerth years. There will be stand alone video for each pastor. The video will be edited down for the final version. A teaser should be available by the Leadership Retreat.
Staff Reports
Co-op School Report-
Kathy Delsanter reported that the last day of school is May 25.
Office Administrator- No Report
Youth Director-
Chris Reed reported that the Youth viewed the Shower of Stoles project last Sunday. There will one more Youth bond sale this Sunday. UMYF will not be meeting this Sunday since it is Memorial Weekend. The Youth are getting ready for Annual Conference and will participate at the opening. The Youth’s Mission Trip to San Marcos begins on June 11. There will be a swim party after the Youth return from their mission trip. The Leadership Council thanked Chris for Youth Sunday and commented on how nice it was.
Worship and Arts-
Eric Folkerth reported that Stephanie Rhoades will begin as the new Music Minister of Music & the Arts on June 1. There will be a Welcoming Reception and Litany for her on June 5. This year’s summer series will steer away from the Chautauqua name because it is associated with camp music and this summer the focus will be on the theme The Glory of god’s Creation- As a part of spirituality. It will be an 8-week series that will include a week on Scriptures, Creativity and Science, Creativity and Art, Destruction of Nature, etc. The Northaven Choir will be off only during the month of July.
Spiritual Formation-
Eric Folkerth reported that the VBS Committee has met twice already. This year VBS will be discussing the Parables of Jesus. Each night will focus on one parable and the group will discuss what they learn from it. The Faith Voices of Justice program on May 19, Tested: Stories of Faith and Justice featured several of the Exonerees and was well attended with over 100 people. There was a potluck dinner with Exonerees and Craig Watkins, the current Dallas County D.A. arrived as a surprise guest.
Senior Pastor-
Eric Folkerth reported that the North Texas Annual Conference will begin June 5 and there will be discussions of upcoming elections at General Conference and the Jurisdictional Conference. There will be computerized voting this year.
Closing Prayer
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Leadership Council Minutes: April 2011
Northaven United Methodist Church
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
April 26, 2011- 7 p.m.
Those Present: Eric Folkerth, Mary Clair Lowrance, Chris Reed, Kathy Delsanter, Betty Boyer, Dick Weaver, Elaine Wiant, Marlene Haskell, Terry Lowery, Jim McBride and Betsy Schenck.
Betty Boyer called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Meditation
The minutes were approved with one correction.
Leadership Chairperson’s Remarks:
Betty thanked the staff, Worship and Arts Committees and all the volunteers for making the Lenten and Easter season so special. She also reported on the workshop “Creating Change” attended by representatives of reconciling congregations preparing for Annual and General Conferences. Finally, she thanked Elaine Wiant for taking notes of this meeting in Mindy Dague's absence.
Leadership Council Reports:
Finance Report-See Attached
Terry Lowery reported on the first quarter financial report (attached). She will attend the May Program Council meeting to discuss the budgeting process help explain the financial reports.
Staff Parish-See Attached
5 candidates for the Director of Music Ministry’s position will have in-person interviews. The interviews have begun and will be completed this week. Two or three of those will audition with the choir on May 7. The search committee will then make a recommendation to SPRC for the May 12 SPRC meeting.
Trustees Report-see attached
Black Tie Dinner – see attached
With the leadership of Connie Marshall, the Straight Spouses Network has had its first monthly meeting at NUMC. It’s a support group endorsed by PFLAG and HRC. It meets on the second Tuesday of the month. It was suggested that the Communications committee assist with promotion and a web presence.
Program Council Report-See Attached
Program Council is reviewing the calendar and the website at its monthly meetings. The Holy Week banners were general in nature and can be used again next year. Shower of Stoles will begin on May 13 in the atrium and continue through June.
Web Site Preview
Eric presented the new website to the group. It’s the first update in many years.
Staff Reports:
Co-op – No report
Youth
Youth fundraising is going well. Youth Bonds will be sold in the atrium from May 8 (Confirmation Sunday) through June 12 (Junior High mission trip begins). May 22 is Youth Sunday.
Spiritual Formation-
Three youth will be confirmed on May 8. Vacation Bible School is the first week in August and will again be in the evening and intergenerational. The fall Spiritual Retreat will be October 15 and 16 and will feature Ruben Habito. Mark Chancy and Rabii David Stern are presenting a Jewish/Christian dialogue at Temple Emanu-El for three Thursdays beginning April 28.
Pastor-
Additional gratitude to all for a great Lent/Easter season. Approximately 460 attended the 11 am Easter service. May 15 will be a “great day of joining.” Tom Timmins is working on a written and video history of NUMC. We’ll have a preview of the history on June 11 at the mid year retreat.
Closing Prayer
Next Meeting is May 24.
Program Council Meeting
April 12, 2011
Members Present:
Marlene Haskell Marty Brownlie Joe Hilbun
Donna Wiles Mary Clair Lowrance Lynette Hendricks
Eric Folkerth Chris Reed Mindy Dague
The meeting was called to order at 7 pm with a devotional by Marlene Haskell.
Old Business:
Marlene asked that each person reporting choose 3 items to highlight for the group.
Minutes from the March meeting were approved.
Marlene will continue to provide calendar info to the group to update for Mindy. In the future, we will meet in the room with a video screen so we can review the website and calendar items.
Action Items from last meeting:
The Communications commission reported that the new website will be up tonight. Emails may be a problem for the next couple of days, but all should be resolved in good time.
Marlene reminded everyone to forward each commission’s members to Tom Timmins (action item 1) and to submit articles (action item 2). Worship & Arts has split out their budget from music, but it was not reflected on the latest income statement.
There will be no regular Program Council meeting on June 14. Instead, the Program Council will meet with the Leadership Council on June 11 in an all morning retreat.
Commission Reports:
Arts – Donna highlighted the Shower of Stoles (in cooperation with the Special Events Commission) May 13 – June 4. Randall Oxford is working on advertising. Bill McElvaney will provide additional historical information. Mindy will figure out how to get it on the calendar over multiple days.
Donna also talked about the Russian Dance Group that will come in June 25. That event will also be held in cooperation with the Special Events Commission as the Feast of Friendship.
Donna reported that the Arts Commission will host an art show in January or February of 2012. The show will be centered on “Seasons of the Church.” Arts is working with the Liturgical Threads group to have new paraments and church linens – but all members of Northaven will be invited to participate. In addition to visual arts, there will be space for written and dramatic works.
Care Team – Lynette reported that all is going well. We will be re-formatting the card senders. All needs are currently being met.
Church in Society – Marty talked about the Faith Voices Series – the last one is Thursday night.
The Lenten offering of letters has had good support. She also spoke about the Good Friday walk sponsored by the Dallas Area Christian Progressive Alliance. 9 people from Northaven attended the Reconciling Ministries training on April 9. Emphasis was placed on storytelling and conversation – not confrontation. There was also training on organizing so that our voices can be heard at Annual Conference/General Conference. The group discussed trying to collect the stories of LGBT people and the Reconciling Church.
Communications – no one was able to attend. Eric reported that the communications folk were not planning to do banners for Easter because of the concern about cost and time. The Council thought that the banners were important and Marlene will contact Randall with the group’s concerns – perhaps an undated version of the banner would be a solution.
Education
Adult – Joe reported that the summer brochure was completed (16 pages!) The Finley retreat will become the Habito retreat this year.
Children – Kirsten was not able to attend, but Mary Clair reported that the Co-Op received the NAEYC accreditation. There will be an Easter Egg hunt after Easter Sunday. Cody Elliott, Sarah Clark, and Jefferson Graham will be confirmed May 8. August 28 is no Sunday School Sunday – intergenerational activity. The children will process with the choir on Palm Sunday. On Easter, the children will flower the cross during children’s time.
Youth – Karen did not attend – Chris covered in Staff Report
Hospitality – no one was able to attend.
Membership – no one was able to attend. Mary Clair reported The Great Day of Joining will be May 1. 6 people attended Northaven 101, which may become a 1 day event. The next class will be held in the fall.
Special Events – reported in conjunction with the Arts Commission
Worship – with Staff reports
Staff Reports:
Chris – Youth raised $1500 at Coffee House (81 people in the house). The youth will begin selling bonds to pay for mission trips on May 8. May 22 is Youth Sunday and Senior Recognition Sunday. There are 16 going on the Jr High trip and only 4 going on the Sr High. Chris will confirm where they are going at our next meeting.
Mary Clair – reported with Commission reports
Mindy – reminded us that she always responds to emails. If you do not get a response, that means she probably did not get the email. 84 people have signed up to provide Easter Flowers. She asked that we all check and re-check the calendar for conflicts and updates to make sure that she has the correct information.
Cash needs to be deposited in the safe. Do not leave it on Mindy’s desk unsecured. Choir checks were found on the floor in the choir room. Lynette will move the offering plate to the music table and see about getting envelopes to put contributions in.
Eric – Website launch is being prayed over. Holy Week coming up. Parishoners will be asked to park on the grass on Easter Sunday, if they are able. Eric will be out of the office the rest of this week to lead worship and do a show at Mt Sequoyah for the Volunteers in Mission.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:111 with prayer.
Action Items:
Commission members to Tom Timmins
Everyone turn in articles for newsletters and bulletin at least once every 6 weeks.
Put June 11 on your calendar for a retreat
Marlene to talk to Randall about banners for Holy week.
Pray for the website
See if we can move our meeting to the room with the screen next time
Continue to review and update calendar.
Leadership Council Meeting- Room 239
April 26, 2011- 7 p.m.
Those Present: Eric Folkerth, Mary Clair Lowrance, Chris Reed, Kathy Delsanter, Betty Boyer, Dick Weaver, Elaine Wiant, Marlene Haskell, Terry Lowery, Jim McBride and Betsy Schenck.
Betty Boyer called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
Meditation
The minutes were approved with one correction.
Leadership Chairperson’s Remarks:
Betty thanked the staff, Worship and Arts Committees and all the volunteers for making the Lenten and Easter season so special. She also reported on the workshop “Creating Change” attended by representatives of reconciling congregations preparing for Annual and General Conferences. Finally, she thanked Elaine Wiant for taking notes of this meeting in Mindy Dague's absence.
Leadership Council Reports:
Finance Report-See Attached
Terry Lowery reported on the first quarter financial report (attached). She will attend the May Program Council meeting to discuss the budgeting process help explain the financial reports.
Staff Parish-See Attached
5 candidates for the Director of Music Ministry’s position will have in-person interviews. The interviews have begun and will be completed this week. Two or three of those will audition with the choir on May 7. The search committee will then make a recommendation to SPRC for the May 12 SPRC meeting.
Trustees Report-see attached
Black Tie Dinner – see attached
With the leadership of Connie Marshall, the Straight Spouses Network has had its first monthly meeting at NUMC. It’s a support group endorsed by PFLAG and HRC. It meets on the second Tuesday of the month. It was suggested that the Communications committee assist with promotion and a web presence.
Program Council Report-See Attached
Program Council is reviewing the calendar and the website at its monthly meetings. The Holy Week banners were general in nature and can be used again next year. Shower of Stoles will begin on May 13 in the atrium and continue through June.
Web Site Preview
Eric presented the new website to the group. It’s the first update in many years.
Staff Reports:
Co-op – No report
Youth
Youth fundraising is going well. Youth Bonds will be sold in the atrium from May 8 (Confirmation Sunday) through June 12 (Junior High mission trip begins). May 22 is Youth Sunday.
Spiritual Formation-
Three youth will be confirmed on May 8. Vacation Bible School is the first week in August and will again be in the evening and intergenerational. The fall Spiritual Retreat will be October 15 and 16 and will feature Ruben Habito. Mark Chancy and Rabii David Stern are presenting a Jewish/Christian dialogue at Temple Emanu-El for three Thursdays beginning April 28.
Pastor-
Additional gratitude to all for a great Lent/Easter season. Approximately 460 attended the 11 am Easter service. May 15 will be a “great day of joining.” Tom Timmins is working on a written and video history of NUMC. We’ll have a preview of the history on June 11 at the mid year retreat.
Closing Prayer
Next Meeting is May 24.
Program Council Meeting
April 12, 2011
Members Present:
Marlene Haskell Marty Brownlie Joe Hilbun
Donna Wiles Mary Clair Lowrance Lynette Hendricks
Eric Folkerth Chris Reed Mindy Dague
The meeting was called to order at 7 pm with a devotional by Marlene Haskell.
Old Business:
Marlene asked that each person reporting choose 3 items to highlight for the group.
Minutes from the March meeting were approved.
Marlene will continue to provide calendar info to the group to update for Mindy. In the future, we will meet in the room with a video screen so we can review the website and calendar items.
Action Items from last meeting:
The Communications commission reported that the new website will be up tonight. Emails may be a problem for the next couple of days, but all should be resolved in good time.
Marlene reminded everyone to forward each commission’s members to Tom Timmins (action item 1) and to submit articles (action item 2). Worship & Arts has split out their budget from music, but it was not reflected on the latest income statement.
There will be no regular Program Council meeting on June 14. Instead, the Program Council will meet with the Leadership Council on June 11 in an all morning retreat.
Commission Reports:
Arts – Donna highlighted the Shower of Stoles (in cooperation with the Special Events Commission) May 13 – June 4. Randall Oxford is working on advertising. Bill McElvaney will provide additional historical information. Mindy will figure out how to get it on the calendar over multiple days.
Donna also talked about the Russian Dance Group that will come in June 25. That event will also be held in cooperation with the Special Events Commission as the Feast of Friendship.
Donna reported that the Arts Commission will host an art show in January or February of 2012. The show will be centered on “Seasons of the Church.” Arts is working with the Liturgical Threads group to have new paraments and church linens – but all members of Northaven will be invited to participate. In addition to visual arts, there will be space for written and dramatic works.
Care Team – Lynette reported that all is going well. We will be re-formatting the card senders. All needs are currently being met.
Church in Society – Marty talked about the Faith Voices Series – the last one is Thursday night.
The Lenten offering of letters has had good support. She also spoke about the Good Friday walk sponsored by the Dallas Area Christian Progressive Alliance. 9 people from Northaven attended the Reconciling Ministries training on April 9. Emphasis was placed on storytelling and conversation – not confrontation. There was also training on organizing so that our voices can be heard at Annual Conference/General Conference. The group discussed trying to collect the stories of LGBT people and the Reconciling Church.
Communications – no one was able to attend. Eric reported that the communications folk were not planning to do banners for Easter because of the concern about cost and time. The Council thought that the banners were important and Marlene will contact Randall with the group’s concerns – perhaps an undated version of the banner would be a solution.
Education
Adult – Joe reported that the summer brochure was completed (16 pages!) The Finley retreat will become the Habito retreat this year.
Children – Kirsten was not able to attend, but Mary Clair reported that the Co-Op received the NAEYC accreditation. There will be an Easter Egg hunt after Easter Sunday. Cody Elliott, Sarah Clark, and Jefferson Graham will be confirmed May 8. August 28 is no Sunday School Sunday – intergenerational activity. The children will process with the choir on Palm Sunday. On Easter, the children will flower the cross during children’s time.
Youth – Karen did not attend – Chris covered in Staff Report
Hospitality – no one was able to attend.
Membership – no one was able to attend. Mary Clair reported The Great Day of Joining will be May 1. 6 people attended Northaven 101, which may become a 1 day event. The next class will be held in the fall.
Special Events – reported in conjunction with the Arts Commission
Worship – with Staff reports
Staff Reports:
Chris – Youth raised $1500 at Coffee House (81 people in the house). The youth will begin selling bonds to pay for mission trips on May 8. May 22 is Youth Sunday and Senior Recognition Sunday. There are 16 going on the Jr High trip and only 4 going on the Sr High. Chris will confirm where they are going at our next meeting.
Mary Clair – reported with Commission reports
Mindy – reminded us that she always responds to emails. If you do not get a response, that means she probably did not get the email. 84 people have signed up to provide Easter Flowers. She asked that we all check and re-check the calendar for conflicts and updates to make sure that she has the correct information.
Cash needs to be deposited in the safe. Do not leave it on Mindy’s desk unsecured. Choir checks were found on the floor in the choir room. Lynette will move the offering plate to the music table and see about getting envelopes to put contributions in.
Eric – Website launch is being prayed over. Holy Week coming up. Parishoners will be asked to park on the grass on Easter Sunday, if they are able. Eric will be out of the office the rest of this week to lead worship and do a show at Mt Sequoyah for the Volunteers in Mission.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:111 with prayer.
Action Items:
Commission members to Tom Timmins
Everyone turn in articles for newsletters and bulletin at least once every 6 weeks.
Put June 11 on your calendar for a retreat
Marlene to talk to Randall about banners for Holy week.
Pray for the website
See if we can move our meeting to the room with the screen next time
Continue to review and update calendar.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Pictures from recent events
Here are some pictures from recent church events that you might find interesting.
Pictures from the Youth Coffeehouse.
Pictures from the Women's Retreat.
Pictures from the "Laying the Stone" ceremony at Christ's Foundry UMC.
Pictures from the Youth Coffeehouse.
Pictures from the Women's Retreat.
Pictures from the "Laying the Stone" ceremony at Christ's Foundry UMC.
Leadership Council Minutes: February 2011
Northaven United Methodist Church
Leadership Council Meeting-Room 239
February 22, 2011
Those Present: Eric Folkerth, Mary Clair Lowrance, Betty Boyer, Jim McBride, Dick Weaver, Kate Anderson, Dotti Timmins, Tom Timmins, Betsy Schenck, Chris Reed, Kathy Delsanter, Terry Lowery, Mindy Dague, Shirley Cooper, Marlene Haskell, and Lee Davenport
Betty Boyer called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Musical Meditation
Leadership Chairperson’s Remarks:
Special thanks to Travis Jordan for giving everyone the newsletter deadline information. The next leadership retreat is scheduled for June 11.
Finance Report: Proposed Budget Attached
Discussion of the 2011 proposed budget. Terry Lowery presented a balanced budget. There were lowered financial expectations for the Adult Education retreats this year to match prior year’s actual numbers. The overall income was $5,500 less than last year primarily due to no one-time giving for 2011. There were increased copier expenses, decreased equipment repairs and increased office supplies, to more accurately match, current spending levels. The Staff Parish had a decrease due to the vacancy in the Music Minister’s position for part of the year and the money it will save helped balance the budget. The HVAC repairs for the building in the amount of approximately $6,500 will be paid from the monies deposited in the Building Fund due to reworking the mortgage payment in 2010. The mortgage payment has increased from all interest to 2 months interest only and 10 months P&I. If interest rates increase during the year, the balance will come from the Building Fund as needed. The Finance Commitee are not wanting to lock in a rate yet due to the low interest rates that we can currently take advantage of.
Betty asked for a motion to approve the 2011 budget. Terry Lowery seconded it. It was unanimously approved.
Covenant Fund Trustees Report: See Attached
Permanent Endowment Fund –
Dotti Timmins and Kate Anderson presented the Leadership Council the new Spending and Investment Policies. Dotti recounted a little history of the Covenant Funds: In 1992 the Northaven Covenant Funds were approved, setting up a Permanent Endowment Fund to be invested at the Texas Methodist Foundation. This PEF was revised and approved by the LC in 2003. The Endowment Fund provides members of the church the opportunity to make gifts to the church as a permanent endowment of financial support and a living memorial. These gifts are used for Missional purposes such as experimental ministries, new outreach, creative services, scholarships or unusual expenses of any kind for maintenance, repair, or the replacement of real and personal property owned by NHUMC. The funds at TMF have been placed into their Loan Fund. The Covenant Trustees now want to expand their investment activities through TMF. For this purpose, the Trustees have spent many sessions discussing and consulting with lawyers and TMF staff to place the Covenant funds in a way to maximize Northaven’s current income from the PEF. Dotti also presented a spending policy developed by the Trustees that would have a more consistent plan for disbursement of funds as requested. Over the past few years the Trustees have begun to make a concerted effort to place more emphasis on “planned giving” which tends to be larger in value and is often a commitment to making gifts in the future, particularly at death. To that end the Covenant Fund now has a “Covenant Society” which celebrates those church members who have included the church or a designated program of the church by testamentary gifts in will, trusts or otherwise. As Northaven and its programs grow, the funding needs will rise to meet the needs of a growing congregation. The PEF is an excellent way for NH to increase its
funding sources. Kate Anderson answered individual questions by the Leadership Council regarding the Spending and Investment Policies.
Staff Parish-See Attached
March 19 is the deadline for accepting resumes for the Music Minister’s position.
Trustees
Northaven has not increased the insurance coverage on the building since it was built and this may be something the Trustees need to look at next year.
Stewardship- See Attached
Lee Davenport is the new Chair of Stewardship for 2011. We are up to $652,000 in pledges.
Program Council
Communications is working on the next church directory.
Staff Reports
Co-op School
An Eagle Scout, Gran Hilbert, son of church members Jay and Pamela Hilbert will be doing his service project with the school. The “A Night for Northaven-Silent Auction and Raffle” will be this Saturday, February 26 at the Dallas Contemporary. An alum parent donated a tree to the school that will be planted on the playground patio to replace the one that died last year.
Worship and the Arts- No Report
Spiritual Formation
Jonathan’s prayer blanket has been delivered. The Care Team will continue this practice with others in need. VBS will be in the evening again this summer but the exact dates have not been decided on yet. Mary Clair will be going with on the Youth mission trip again this summer to San Marcos.
Youth
The All Church Pancake Shrove Tuesday Dinner is on March 8 from 6 -8 p.m. The youth will be selling $5 meal tickets in advance or $6 at the door. The Youth will be hosting a Coffee House showcasing the Youth’s talents with several solos and hopefully the Children’s Choir may be giving a performance too.
The Youth are planning on doing a “Trade Up” scavenger hunt this year. The Youth will bring one item each and tried to “trade-up” with people in the neighborhood. Whatever is collected will be auctioned off at the coffee house as part of the Youth Fundraising event.
Pastoral
Thanks to the Staff for getting the church bulletin and building ready for worship services on Sunday after the February 1-4 snow and ice storm. Ash Wednesday services will be on March 9 at 7 p.m. Several Lent planning meetings are in the works and the decided theme this year is The Journey of Fearless Faith. The Worship team is bringing back the Wailing Wall for Lent with a different question posted each week. Transfiguration Sunday is March 6. The Staff and Worship Team are grateful that Easter is late this year because it is giving everyone a rest from Christmas and plenty of time to plan for upcoming Lent services. Conference News Update- A new appointment by the Bishop has been made. Two District Superintendents are retiring in the North Texas Conference. The North Central District’s newly appointed Superintendent is Rev. Dr. Frank Alegria who is transferring from First UMC of Beaumont. He will be the first Hispanic District Superintendent ever appointed in the North Texas Conference.
Closing Prayer
Next Meeting is March 22
Leadership Council Meeting-Room 239
February 22, 2011
Those Present: Eric Folkerth, Mary Clair Lowrance, Betty Boyer, Jim McBride, Dick Weaver, Kate Anderson, Dotti Timmins, Tom Timmins, Betsy Schenck, Chris Reed, Kathy Delsanter, Terry Lowery, Mindy Dague, Shirley Cooper, Marlene Haskell, and Lee Davenport
Betty Boyer called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Musical Meditation
Leadership Chairperson’s Remarks:
Special thanks to Travis Jordan for giving everyone the newsletter deadline information. The next leadership retreat is scheduled for June 11.
Finance Report: Proposed Budget Attached
Discussion of the 2011 proposed budget. Terry Lowery presented a balanced budget. There were lowered financial expectations for the Adult Education retreats this year to match prior year’s actual numbers. The overall income was $5,500 less than last year primarily due to no one-time giving for 2011. There were increased copier expenses, decreased equipment repairs and increased office supplies, to more accurately match, current spending levels. The Staff Parish had a decrease due to the vacancy in the Music Minister’s position for part of the year and the money it will save helped balance the budget. The HVAC repairs for the building in the amount of approximately $6,500 will be paid from the monies deposited in the Building Fund due to reworking the mortgage payment in 2010. The mortgage payment has increased from all interest to 2 months interest only and 10 months P&I. If interest rates increase during the year, the balance will come from the Building Fund as needed. The Finance Commitee are not wanting to lock in a rate yet due to the low interest rates that we can currently take advantage of.
Betty asked for a motion to approve the 2011 budget. Terry Lowery seconded it. It was unanimously approved.
Covenant Fund Trustees Report: See Attached
Permanent Endowment Fund –
Dotti Timmins and Kate Anderson presented the Leadership Council the new Spending and Investment Policies. Dotti recounted a little history of the Covenant Funds: In 1992 the Northaven Covenant Funds were approved, setting up a Permanent Endowment Fund to be invested at the Texas Methodist Foundation. This PEF was revised and approved by the LC in 2003. The Endowment Fund provides members of the church the opportunity to make gifts to the church as a permanent endowment of financial support and a living memorial. These gifts are used for Missional purposes such as experimental ministries, new outreach, creative services, scholarships or unusual expenses of any kind for maintenance, repair, or the replacement of real and personal property owned by NHUMC. The funds at TMF have been placed into their Loan Fund. The Covenant Trustees now want to expand their investment activities through TMF. For this purpose, the Trustees have spent many sessions discussing and consulting with lawyers and TMF staff to place the Covenant funds in a way to maximize Northaven’s current income from the PEF. Dotti also presented a spending policy developed by the Trustees that would have a more consistent plan for disbursement of funds as requested. Over the past few years the Trustees have begun to make a concerted effort to place more emphasis on “planned giving” which tends to be larger in value and is often a commitment to making gifts in the future, particularly at death. To that end the Covenant Fund now has a “Covenant Society” which celebrates those church members who have included the church or a designated program of the church by testamentary gifts in will, trusts or otherwise. As Northaven and its programs grow, the funding needs will rise to meet the needs of a growing congregation. The PEF is an excellent way for NH to increase its
funding sources. Kate Anderson answered individual questions by the Leadership Council regarding the Spending and Investment Policies.
Staff Parish-See Attached
March 19 is the deadline for accepting resumes for the Music Minister’s position.
Trustees
Northaven has not increased the insurance coverage on the building since it was built and this may be something the Trustees need to look at next year.
Stewardship- See Attached
Lee Davenport is the new Chair of Stewardship for 2011. We are up to $652,000 in pledges.
Program Council
Communications is working on the next church directory.
Staff Reports
Co-op School
An Eagle Scout, Gran Hilbert, son of church members Jay and Pamela Hilbert will be doing his service project with the school. The “A Night for Northaven-Silent Auction and Raffle” will be this Saturday, February 26 at the Dallas Contemporary. An alum parent donated a tree to the school that will be planted on the playground patio to replace the one that died last year.
Worship and the Arts- No Report
Spiritual Formation
Jonathan’s prayer blanket has been delivered. The Care Team will continue this practice with others in need. VBS will be in the evening again this summer but the exact dates have not been decided on yet. Mary Clair will be going with on the Youth mission trip again this summer to San Marcos.
Youth
The All Church Pancake Shrove Tuesday Dinner is on March 8 from 6 -8 p.m. The youth will be selling $5 meal tickets in advance or $6 at the door. The Youth will be hosting a Coffee House showcasing the Youth’s talents with several solos and hopefully the Children’s Choir may be giving a performance too.
The Youth are planning on doing a “Trade Up” scavenger hunt this year. The Youth will bring one item each and tried to “trade-up” with people in the neighborhood. Whatever is collected will be auctioned off at the coffee house as part of the Youth Fundraising event.
Pastoral
Thanks to the Staff for getting the church bulletin and building ready for worship services on Sunday after the February 1-4 snow and ice storm. Ash Wednesday services will be on March 9 at 7 p.m. Several Lent planning meetings are in the works and the decided theme this year is The Journey of Fearless Faith. The Worship team is bringing back the Wailing Wall for Lent with a different question posted each week. Transfiguration Sunday is March 6. The Staff and Worship Team are grateful that Easter is late this year because it is giving everyone a rest from Christmas and plenty of time to plan for upcoming Lent services. Conference News Update- A new appointment by the Bishop has been made. Two District Superintendents are retiring in the North Texas Conference. The North Central District’s newly appointed Superintendent is Rev. Dr. Frank Alegria who is transferring from First UMC of Beaumont. He will be the first Hispanic District Superintendent ever appointed in the North Texas Conference.
Closing Prayer
Next Meeting is March 22
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
