APPROVED VESTRY MINUTES

WEDNESDAY,

THE MEETING HOUSE

APRIL 24, 2002

VESTRY PRESENT: Father Peter Courtney, Leigh Preston, Bob Wood, Walter Jarrett, Bruce Morrow, Clay Gilbert, Chris Saye, Cindy McAlister, Phillip Cofer, Dave Gossett, Carol Winthrop, Peg Wood, Debra Harden, Terri Tillman, Duncan Krause and Joe Napoli.

NON-VESTRY PRESENT: Dee Forester.

WELCOME

Father Courtney opened the meeting by leading the Vestry in song “ Send Out Your Light” and prayer.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Clay Gilbert asked the Vestry to look at the Summary of Revenues and Expenses of the March 31, 2002 Income Statement. He reported that year to date we are $ 30,000 behind budget but the pre-paid pledges make up for that deficit. He applauded Father Courtney for the excellent job he has done keeping expenses in line. The Finance Committee has discussed the hope of being able to restore the original pledge to the Diocese if possible at the end of the year. The pledge was cut from $ 56,349.00 to $ 50,000.00.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Peg Wood reported that the Broun piano has been tuned and was appraised by the tuner at $5000.00. The piano tuner may know of a buyer.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Bob Wood announced that five parishioners need to be elected to be Council members. He asked that names be submitted to Peter, Bob or any member of the Executive Committee before that Committee’s May meeting.

Cindy McAlister announced an informational meeting to determine those interested in committing time to the Guild of the Christ Child. The meeting will be May 20, 2002 at 11:00 a.m.

FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER

Clay Gilbert praised the addition of two of Father Courtney’s sermons on the website.

Father Courtney announced that Kat Baumgarner has been hired to replace Sarah Fisher when Sarah leaves for seminary. Carol Winthrop and Debra Harden helped Father Courtney with the interview process and all three voiced their delight at hiring such a qualified candidate. Kat will begin work August 1, 2002.

Cindy McAlister commented on the wonderful Rite 13 service and thanked Peg Wood for attending the luncheon. She also commented that the in house Parish retreat with Bruce Stewart was fabulous and hopes he will return for another retreat.

Debra Harden spoke of the Rite 13 service and said, as a parent, she really appreciated the Vestry's support of the program, and that the service had been very meaningful to her family.

Peg Wood said she had enjoyed the Sunday night Eucharist and praised Peter for his creativity. Peter stated that he is pleased with the service and especially the voices of the 9:00 a.m. choir members who are attending.

Emmanuel’s summer worship schedule begins June 2, 2002.

Peter reported that he had lunch with Sarah and Melissa today and as always they had a grand time.

Hal Cofer and Betty Ahearn will be marrying and as a tribute to them and all their hard work Peter will be sending a postcard announcing a way to honor them. The kitchen is in desperate need of an air conditioning unit and anyone interested can make a donation toward the purchase of the unit. Peter has already received a pledge of $ 500.00. The Vestry is in complete support of this idea and tribute. Walter Jarrett and the Facilities Committee will get bids on the cost of the project.

DEVOTION

Debra Harden read an excerpt from Rachael Naomi Remen, M.D. “Kitchen Table Wisdom” on Judgement. She closed the devotion with a prayer.

COMMUNICATIONS PROPOSAL

Bruce Morrow and Terri Tillman brought to the Vestry the proposal to run a permanent ad in the Athens Banner-Herald each week noting times of services, that a nursery is provided and highlighting special events. After discussion the Vestry supported the proposal of the advertisement and asked the Communications Commission to go to the Finance Committee and determine where the funds can be obtained.

Leigh Preston asked how newcomer’s are welcomed. They are identified if they fill out the newcomers card in the pew. The Clergy meet weekly to try to determine who is a newcomer.

COMMUNICATIONS EXERCISE

Bruce Morrow lead the Vestry in a exercise to determine an Icon for Emmanuel to use to promote Emmanuel in the community.

DEVOTION FOR THE MAY MEETING

Peg Wood volunteered.

Father Courtney dismissed the meeting with a prayer.

Respectfully submitted,

Dee Forester

Secretary to the Vestry