SAINT MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS CORONA DEL MAR ANNUAL REPORTS FOR 2016 (AS WE ENTER OUR 50TH YEAR)
Table of Contents Report
Agenda 2016 Minutes Senior Warden Building and Grounds Junior Warden Attendance Parish Secretary Rector Communication Ombudsman
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1 2 5 7 8 9 13 15 18 21
Report
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Christian Education Evangelism Mission Worship Music Altar Guild Stewardship Finance Ballot
22 29 31 33 36 39 41 42 43
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SAINT MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS 50 th Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, February 5,2017, 11:30 A.M. AGENDA
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Opening prayer Election of the Clerk of the Meeting Appointment of the Tellers Approval of the Minutes of the (2/7) 2017 Annual Meeting Acceptance of Annual Reports Presentation of the Program & Budget for 2017 Nomination for Vestry Persons and Delegates
Nominations will be called for from the Floor immediately prior to elections. Those wishing to make nominations in addition to those from the Nominating Committee of the Vestry must obtain permission of the potential nominee and inform the Chair of the Vestry before doing so. To vote, one must be sixteen years of age or over and have been in the Parish Register as a communicant of the Parish for at least sixty days.
8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Introduction of Candidates Election of the Vestry and Delegates Old Business New Business Recognition of Outgoing Vestry Members Closing Prayer
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2016 ANNUAL MEETING MINUTES The Episcopal Parish Church of Saint Michael & All Angels 3233 Pacific View Drive Corona del Mar, CA 92625 The Very Reverend Canon Peter D. Haynes, Rector Forty-Ninth Annual Parish Meeting Sunday, February 7, 2016 Opening: Canon Haynes opened the meeting at 11:30 a m. with prayer. 1. Election of the Clerk of the Meeting: Canon Haynes nominated Karlene Miller to be Clerk of the 2. 3.
4. 5.
Meeting; unanimously approved. Appointment of Tellers: Canon Haynes nominated Larry Casey and Monty Pentz as Tellers; unanimously approved. Approval of the Minuets of the 2015 Annual Parish Meeting: Canon Haynes motioned to approve the Minutes of the 2015 Annual Parish Meeting, Myma Ireland seconded; unanimously approved. Acceptance of submitted Annual Parish Reports. Barbara Black motioned to approve the Minutes of the Annual Report for 2015; Julie Jenkins second; unanimously approved. Presentation of the Program & Budget for 2014: Julie Jenkins presented the Programs & Budget for 2016 noting that at the time, there are no plans for new programs; although it was necessary to reduce the Mission Share Fund, as well as funds for Mission, Evangelism, Worship, and Communication Commissions, it was not necessary to cut any salaries.
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7. Introduction of Candidates: the following candidates were d Vestry Norris Battin 3 year term Jill Faller 3 year term Melinda Rader 3 year term Don Sheetz 1 year term Delegates to Diocesan Convention Steve Dulson Murry McCiaren Lynn Headley
Alternates Norris Battin Rebecca Welch Lynne Ruedy
Richard Zevnik
Representative to Deanery Ten Rebecca Welch 8. Election of Vestry Persons and Delegates: Canon Haynes moved for the nomination of the slate
of new vestry members above; Ruth Poole seconded the motion; unanimously approved. 9. Old Business: None 10. New Business: Canon Haynes and Lynn Headley reminded everyone of die opportunity for a 2017 Holy Land Pilgrimage. 11. Recognition of Outgoing Vestry Members: Canon Haynes thanked the outgoing Vestry members - Barbara Black, Karlene Miller, and Clyde Dodge HI - for their service and presented them with small gifts of appreciation. 12. Closing. Canon Haynes closed the meeting at 1:00 p.m. with prayer
Karlene Miller Clerk of the Meeting
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SENIOR WARDEN’S REPORT What you are is God's gift to you What you do with yourself is your gift to God Danish proverb As I approach the end of my term as Senior Warden and look back over the last few years, I see how very fortunate this parish has been to have so many dedicated and committed vestry members. A great deal has been accomplished under their leadership and we are all very grateful to each of them. Thank you. The impressive leaders leaving our vestry this year include: • • • • • •
Rev. Barbara Stewart (Mission): Managed alternate gift faire; SOS Christian gifts, Blankets for Children and many other projects; Matt Shaw (Stewardship): Led our successful giving campaigns for the past three years; Louise Stover (Ombudsperson): Filled so many gaps and kept us on target each year. Her organization skills, quick mind and willing service will be missed; Tom Nicholson (Building & Grounds): Handled landscape renovation, Mr. Fix It whenever needed and negotiated rental agreement with Roger's Nursery; Julie Jenkins (Finance): Balanced our budgets, worked with our bookkeeper weekly, kept us focused on our annual budget; Don Sheetz (Junior Warden): Oversaw all contracts, negotiations with internal and external sources and was always available for counsel.
We have worked very hard with Susan Beechner to bring in additional donations to enhance our bottom line. Between the Coptic Christians, Verizon tower, and now Roger's Nursery use of the parking lot, our parish center is in constant use. We also look forward to our new preschool opening in the fall of this year. God has blessed us greatly; however, we must not overlook the fact that faith on our part helps God carry out His plan. Let us continue attempting great things for God. Each one of us is gifted in one way or another, most of us in many ways. We need to remember to use our gifts when they are needed. In closing, I have three prayers: Health for our rector to enjoy his retirement years. Pray for Father Haynes Wisdom for the new vestry in the operations of the parish and in choosing our new rector. Pray for the vestry Love for each other in service to God for our parish and the community Pray for our church. 5|P a g e
I wish you a blessed year. Myrna Ireland Senior Warden On a Personal Note: I have known Peter Haynes since I was on the search committee for his hiring about 20 years ago. We have shared a close relationship for all that time and I wish him the very best in his retirement. I will miss our parochial and personal friendship very much.
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BUILDING AND GROUNDS REPORT The building and grounds are in general good and operational condition. Improvements and major maintenance items completed this year are as follows: • • • • •
Replacement of damaged drinking fountain; Changed out bath lighting to energy efficient LED Rebuilt gym closet doors Major water line repair Inspections and certificates for code compliance of systems
Miscellaneous repairs and maintenance. The new landscape is filling in and the project continues to produce ongoing cost savings over and above last year’s savings. The anticipated savings from last year to next will be in excess of $2,000 and is reflected in the new budget. As the plant material matures and fills in, additional cost saving in the future can be anticipated. The grounds of our church were the beneficiary of a substantial stone sign base built by Matthew Kiper as his Eagle Scout project this year. This sign base is currently being used for banners announcing church events. It is built and engineered to support a future monument sign (with city approval) that can be digital to more effectively announce church events and activities. Karleen Miller took over the maintenance of the roses and is doing a great job coordinating with her team. Continued thanks to Will Stoffer from Twin Oaks Landscape and Don Henry from Village Green Landscape Architecture for their continued diligence in on the landscape. I also thank George Line for all the help in repairs and maintenance, especially the water line leak over the holidays
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JUNIOR WARDEN’S REPORT I am pleased to offer this communique to the parishioners of Saint Michael and All Angels. For the past three years 1 have enjoyed representing your interests on your vestry. We are very fortunate to have so many distinguished people serving our common concerns for the management of this parish church. Certain areas l have overseen are attendance details, parish emergency fund, general business issues, and helping whenever I could, the Senior Warden. How wonderful a person dear Myrna Ireland is. It should be noted that Myrna has given of herself tirelessly to the betterment of our parish. My charted aim has been to reduce costs whenever and wherever we can, such as restructuring our Cox Communications relationship among other cutbacks. Additionally, I along with all the other vestry members continuously search for ways to increase our revenues. Examples of this are offering our property to the Coptic Orthodox Church, Verizon Cellular, Roger's Gardens, Mazda Motor Corporation among numerous other activities. Of major importance is the manse project (establishing the residence for our new Rector). I have previously reported to you of this endeavor. We are currently in discussions with various means to financially benefit this matter. An exploratory committee has been formed and the view from my vantage point is extremely encouraging. I welcome all congregants to consider involving themselves by contributing in some way or manner to this journey's progress and success. As I depart this position, I know that your 2017 vestry representatives of St Michael's are in good stead going forward with the tasks at hand. With our Rector's accelerated retirement, much work is on the agenda. 1 am always available to hear your thoughts and offer my help. My wish is for blessings to all. Thank you. Sincerely, Donald Sheetz
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ATTENDANCE Saint Michael & All Angels Attendance Summary for 2016 Attendance (all services): 7,704 Sunday Eucharist
#
8 am: 1,348 9 am: 1,533 10 am: 3,385
36 15 37
37
All:
88
71
6,266
91
Other Services Attendance # Eucharist: Peace Mass: Healing Mass: Morning Prayer: Evening Prayer: Compline: Choral Evensong: Tenebrae: Stations of the Cross: Great Vigil: Pageant: Others:
448
8
218 16 163 101 90 25 44 58 92 59
50 2 13 3 2 1 3 2
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Special Days All Services for: Ash Wednesday: Palm Sunday: Maundy Thursday: Good Friday: Easter: Pentecost: Christmas:
Attendance 77 138 26 90 335 134 494
Friday, January 06,2017
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(for 15 year attendance trends please see printed report)
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Parish Statistics Effective Date -12/31/2016 Families
- 178
Adults
- 265
Young Adults (16 & older)
- 32
Children (<16)
- 35
Married Couples
- 86
Newcomer Families
-
[
Associate-Member Families - 93 Associate-Members
- 146
Potential pledges
- 178
♦Total pledges made this year Actual current pledges
- 113
Contributing pledges
- 107
♦All contributing pledges
- 109
Contributors
- 133
♦All contributors
- 137
115
Institutions receiving 'For the Love of Mike' -
10
Advertisers in the 'For the Love of Mike'
11
-
♦ Includes those who have left the parish
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PARISH SECRETARY/OFFICE MANAGER REPORT Our “Faithful Friday Folders”… …volunteer time and expertise to help prepare our numerous Worship Bulletins and the many all parish and For the Love of Mike mailings sent out by the office. My grateful thanks to Peggy Montgomery, Polly Benjamin, Julie Jenkins and her son Russ, and Marcia Cummins. (We lost Russ this year after much illness, and we will always miss his smile and sunny disposition.) Ruth Poole, Murry McClaren, and Sandra Alser, deserve thanks, too, for always standing by, ready to help when needed. Sara Hyatt, Barbara Stewart*, and Sandy Montgomery are much appreciated for their fine proofreading help with For the Love of Mike. (Proofreading is a rare talent, and we are most fortunate to have several good ones available to call on when needed!) Clyde Dodge is responsible for the beautiful two-page color photo spreads which appear on occasion in For the Love of Mike. Thank you, Clyde. They add so much to our publication! And thanks to Norris Battin, my co-editor who puts the paper together each month, and to Marcia Last for her “snail-mail” help sending it to our home-bound parishioners and advertisers. Also, many, many thanks to Peter Coppen for his never-ending work keeping our database in order and up to date, and for the St. Mike’s Picture Directories he produces four times a year—now in color! Saint Michael’s Campus and Facilities… …continue to be popular and busy with a variety of activities, and as facilities’ manager I am kept busy keeping track of and juggling activities in our various rooms and locations, and keeping our parish calendar up-to-date. This year Saint Monica’s Orthodox Christian Coptic Church, which began holding their worship services here at Saint Michael & All Angels in November 2015 contributed $17,820. Also, Rogers’ Gardens began using part of our parking lot late last fall and has contributed $10,500. These two additions have brought an additional $28,320 to our total facilities’ use receipts. Other donations for use were made by the following groups and total $46,315.00, bringing our total donations for 2016 to $74,615.00: Newport Lightning Basketball; Coach Jon’s “Core Athletics”; Whiz Kids Preschool (meets 3-4 days weekly in Sunday School Rooms); Homenetmen (Basketball; Yoga classes Wed. &. Frl. (Roberta Smith); 3 AA groups (Fri. evening, Women’s Wed. a.m., Tues. p.m.; St. Mike’s Monday Night Basketball; Spyglass Hill Homeowners’ Board (monthly meetings); Senior Fit (weekly chair exercise); and Miscellaneous: Misc. includes: 2 Hassett student piano recitals; Baroque Music Festival Monday, night Concert; a Life Line Screening in AAC; “All that Dance” group rehearsals for O.C Fair; Hutchins Consort bimonthly board meetings; Citizens’ Climate Control 13 | P a g e
(environmental group) monthly meetings; Polling Place twice this year.); and Use for ceremonies, weddings, funerals, and receptions. Our Parking Lot is also used on occasion by Harbor Day School, Newport Center United Methodist Church, Lincoln School, and Pacific View Cemetery for overflow parking. We also permit Goodwill to have their very popular donation center in the corner of our parking lot. MY THANKS, as always, to Peter Haynes*, Susan Caldwell, Ray Urwin, and Marybeth Waniek, and to all the dear Saint Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parishioners, who help make my work so interesting and satisfactory.
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RECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2016 Sing the body old, translucent, cartilage giving way, body getting closer to the earth ready for planting. Sing the body frail, bent, curved by winds which now all blow in one direction. Sing the mind translucent like the skin revealing gnarled memories. Sing the beauty of the old ones' time, where the present is selective, the past sublime; where the future holds all promise, and holds the end of time. Sing the beauty in the body old, a beauty the old ones sometimes cannot see, but all who love can sense: the beauty of the weathering, the standing for: the browned barn against green summer fields. (The Rev'd Dr.) Mark Harris [poetmarkl940@gmail.com], beloved friend and colleague since seminary days, published "Sing the Body Old" in Plumbline, a journal of ministry with higher education for which I wrote and he edited in the 1970s when we were both in our 30s and in 1984 in “Good Hope Poems.” Now we are in our 70s and Mark has been diagnosed with cancer and I with a litany of orthopedic challenges. For me, 2016 will be "the year I got old!" When you read this I will be recovering from decompression of the cervical spine (neck) surgery on January 26. I anticipate recovering well as I have from reverse right shoulder replacement last October. There are at least three more surgeries I will need before my body can be as strong as my spirit continues to be. So, I intend to retire mid-2017. Ideally, we will celebrate the 50th birthday of our parish, Saint Michael & All Angels, on the Birthday of the Church, Pentecost, June 4, at 9:00 a.m. and that will be my last Sunday as your rector. Then for me, the balance of June will include cleaning out my office after twenty-nine years and seven months and celebrating "Farewells!" As I anticipate no longer doing full-time what I am confident I am meant to do on earth in this 15 | P a g e
body-bound chapter of eternal life, God's great humor is crystal clear. Overall, for 44+ years of ministry in Holy Orders, I have been able to support myself and family by doing what I love to do, what gives me joy. And specifically, when I arrived in 1987 I was told that our first rector, (The Rev'd) John Rogers Davis, retired at age 60 after leading this parish for almost twenty years because of severe problems with his back. I responded impetuously, "Twenty years is too long, I'll be here eight to twelve, and my body will be fine when I leave.” Silly me! Reflection on "successes" and "failures" will follow before Pentecost. I set only one goal when I arrived; as you can read on page 14 of “Saint Michael & All Angels Corona del Mar A Celebration of Fifty Years”, "Within months, the rector spoke openly of wanting a ’60/40 balance' in the parish expenditures' budget - targeting 60 percent to support mission activities outside Saint Michael & All Angels and he found himself 'overjoyed' when this goal was adopted by the Vestry in 1988 and then by the annual meeting.” However, the best we have done is "33-67," one-third of our parish's Program & Budget going toward serving those who are not our own members. Some would say this is a "failure," but by my sabbatical time in 1995 I realized my goal was unrealistic and said sc here. As always, I continue to hope and pray that we will become more-and-more mission-minded. As for "successes," I can honestly say that I have pastored, taught/preached and administrated to the best of my ability, the limitations of which I am well-aware. In particular, I am proud to have shared with our parishioners my friendships with Dr. Mark Miller, Rabbi Emeritus and Senior Scholar of Temple Bat Yahm, and Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, Imam at the Islamic Society of Orange County. Friendships among children of Abraham & Sarah and Hagar seem to me to be more critical than ever in this twenty-first century. My "attitude of gratitude" continues for, as the great General Thanksgiving on page 836 of our “Book of Common Prayer” puts it, "…for the wonder of life, and for the mystery of love . . . for the blessing of family and friends, and for the loving care which surrounds us on every side . . . for setting us at tasks which demand our best efforts, and for leading us to accomplishments which satisfy and delight us ...(and) for those disappointments and failures that lead us to acknowledge our dependence on you alone. Above all, we thank you for your Son Jesus Christ . . . " Those who know me well will not be surprised that my attitude as I "sing the body old" and prepare to retire is well-expressed in the most famous poem by my favorite Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, written for his father while he was in Florence with his family in 1947; Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. 16 | P a g e
Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height. Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Yours, in Christ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Peter
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COMMUNICATION REPORT The Communication Commission members are Norris Battin (chair), Peter Coppen, Peter Haynes, Kati Nicholson, and Ruth Poole. Susan Beechner, Susan Caldwell, and Frances Haynes support the commission’s work. Communication Strategy We continue to work to improve the definitions of our communication objectives, target audiences, messages, and media strategy so that we can communicate more effectively with our limited resources. We would be grateful for parishioner contributions to this effort. These definitions lead to more effective tactics (some current ones listed below) which help the parish reach its goals. We hope to find a way to survey the parish about its social media habits so that we can tailor our communications to them. Again, volunteer help would be a blessing. Communication Tactics Print Advertising: Due to 2016 budget restrictions, print advertising was limited to small ads in the Daily Pilot for Easter, Blessing of the Animals, and Christmas. We expect to continue at this level in the foreseeable future. Online Advertising: We discontinued advertising on YP.com (online description and geographic location of SMAA), Google Ad Words, and Facebook “boosts” again because of budget limitations. Kati Nicholson and Norris Battin contribute event listings to Facebook throughout the year. Weekly email: We continued weekly email detailing upcoming events in 2016, some originating from Communication and some from Christian Education. Please let Susan Beechner know of changes to your email addresses. Banners: We purchased a new Vacation Bible School banner for 2016 and will purchase another for the 2107 program. Banners have also been purchased for the new sign at the corner of Marguerite and Pacific View. Flyers: Clyde created and distributed flyers for the Blessing of the Animals, the Christmas Walk in CdM, and Christmas worship. He distributed several hundred to local hotels. Love of Mike: Norris Battin and Susan Beechner edit the monthly parish newsletter and Susan distributes it by email. It is also available through a link on our website and on both Facebook pages. Printed copies are available in the church and on the reading table in the parish hall.
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Website: Clyde maintains the new website. More volunteer help here would be greatly appreciated. We feature the website www.stmikescdm.ladiocese.org in our advertising and on our identity material. Excerpts from the parish history are linked on the website, along with a link to order printed copies. Church Computer Network: Peter Coppen continues to monitor and update the operating system software on our church computers. He also maintains the database of our parish membership, and is responsible for publishing the regular updates to the parish directory. We are in the process of developing a computer upgrade plan to implement over the next several years. A major system failure in December told us that we were not too late to begin this work. Preliminary budget proposal for this work is $3200 in 2107. Social Media Update: Facebook pages The Daily Mike: https://www.facebook.com/SMAAdailymike/timeline This page reports news from the Diocese of Los Angeles, The Episcopal Church, The Anglican Communion, Anglicanism, world religion, authors of note. It also offers online daily worship – usually two services from the Daily Office – and “Forward Day by Day.” https://www.facebook.com/SMAACDM Lists and reports on parish activities and events. SMAA Friends of Music https://www.facebook.com/SMAAFriendsofMusic/ For the Love of Mike (online, in color, with clickable links) Use the Issuu app in the right column on either Facebook page. Other sites The Daily Mike online news http://paper.li/tomcranmer/1424190131#!headlines. Subscribe for a daily update delivered to your email box. The Parish website www.stmikescdm.ladiocese.org SMAA Communications Dropbox link The folder offers relevant (and some irrelevant) SMAA comms documents. Contact Norris Battin for the link. I have prepared a “Communication Wish List 2016-2019” and it is in this folder. Headings are Objectives, Messages, Audiences, Projects, Information Technology, 19 | P a g e
and Resources. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d appreciate your feedback and ideas. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like me to send you a copy, please let me know by email nbattin@gmail.com. Respectfully, Norris Battin Communications Commissioner
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2016 Ombudsman Top 10 List Peter Haynes announced retirement. Building Our Faith loan repayment. Acquired a defibrillator in case of emergencies. Revised the chart of recommended donations for parish facilities. Reduced telecom expenses through elimination of lines that are no longer needed. Successfully enrolled in GuideStar which allows non-profit registration in multiple online programs. 7. Successfully enrolled in TechSoup, which provides discounted computers to non-profits. 8. Successfully enrolled in AmazonSmile purchasing program. 9. Hosted Deaneries 9 & 10 Lenten Retreat: February 2016 10. Participated in Canterbury Irvine 2016 Golf Tournament: October 2016 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
And greetings from Canterbury Irvine January 4. 2017 Dear Louise, I would be grateful if you would assist me in conveying, as part of the ombudsman's annual report, the gratitude of the Canterbury-lrvine board of directors to the parishioners of St Michael's for the support they have provided our endeavors over the years. Canterbury Irvine, the Episcopal chaplaincy at UC Irvine, is now more than fifty years old, almost as old as the university campus itself and the same age as the Interfaith Center that was created at UCI in 1966. We are privileged to have been served by ten different chaplains since our founding, the latest of 'whom - the Reverend Dr. Fennie Chang - has been our stalwart and inspiration since 2011. Indeed, I am delighted to tell you that Fennie is scheduled to preach here at St Michael's at both services on Sunday, March 12. Canterbury-lrvine, embodied in Fennie's presence and energy, offers UCI students regular weekly services and activities grounded in our Anglican faith. We operate on a budget of roughly 555,000 a year, of which roughly $39,000 is the core of Fennie's salary and is provided by the Los Angeles diocese. We supplement this by raising approximately $8,000 a year ourselves from our annual Canterbury Cup Golf Tournament and from a spring garden party at one of our Orange County parishes. But to balance our budget we are very much dependent on the financial generosity of Deaneries Nine and Ten and especially the donations of the individual parish churches within these boundaries. Among these St Michael and All Angels has always been a leader, and for this we thank and bless you. This coming year may see a lot of changes in our chaplaincy, what with a new diocesan bishop, probably a new location for the interfaith Center, and possibly the "graduation" of Fennie to the rectorship of a church within our diocese. But we face the future unafraid of newness and experimentation, since the message we convey, and the communication and fellowship we sponsor, are things in which we are completely confident. 21 | P a g e
With gratitude and good wishes, Keith Nelson Chair, Canterbury-lrvine Board of Directors
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CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMISSION REPORT Prepared by: Susan Caldwell, Anne Conover, Kati Nicholson, Melinda Rader Christian Education Mission: Teach our parish church community about God’s love Overview Within our mission, we support adults in their spiritual journey, youth as they grow to understand Christian living, and our youngest angels and children to experience God’s love in a safe and caring environment. Our programs are crafted to these life stages and to integrate community life. Our report presents the work, with much appreciation to the cooperating Commissions that enrich and expand our SMAA Christian Education ministry. Adult Christian Education Committee Members Many thanks to those who donated their time and talents to Adult Christian Education ministry this year, to those who served on the 2016 planning committee- The Reverend Canon Peter D. Haynes, The Reverend Barbara Stewart PHD, Melinda Rader, Ruth Poole, Ann Morris, Barbara Black, Sandi Ames, Shanel Ames, Beth Bianchi, Annemaria Ballin, Kathleen Peterson, Norris Battin, and Susan Caldwell. Adult Education Highlights of Sundays at Nine have been continuing; The Great Courses DVD Series with The World’s Greatest Churches (Series commentator Professor William R. Cook), Melinda Rader and Ruth Poole led the discussion time; a spring music series that opened our ears to the hymnal (Dr. Ray Urwin, Minister of Music), the spirituality in popular youth music (Michael Boor), then culminated in June with a Shalom Service by Rev. Norm Freeman and Katherine Cash. Our popular summer travel series was again organized by Ruth Poole and featured motivational presentations by parish travelers. Dr. Phil Johnston kicked off our September gatherings with lessons about the early church. The Reverend Barbara Stewart led the evening Bible Study’s in Advent at the home of Myrna Ireland. Sundays at Nine closed its year with the discussion of the Convention with delegates Steve Dulson, Richard Zevnik, Lynn Headley, Murry McClaren, and Rebecca Welch present. Monthly devotional reading was supported by publications from Forward Movement and the tract review was written monthly by Ruth Poole in the For Love of Mike. Additional publications can be found in the Tract Rack on the wall at the entrance to Michael’s Room.
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Children and Youth Education One of the wonderful ways St. Michael and All Angels Sunday School has grown is that all of the children feel ownership of and at home in the Yellow and Green Rooms. A true St. Michael's youth community has developed. The foundation of our weekly Christian Education for children flourishes with our Godly Play Yellow Room (K-4th grade) and our Formation lessons Green Room (5th-8th grade). We are blessed with dedicated parent and parish community members who lead the weekly lessons. In the Yellow Room, Teachers/Helpers are Anne Conover, Marjie Blevins, Kristy Kiper, Elizabeth Henry, Melinda Rader, Anne Warmington, Corinne Stover, and Skylar Mineshima. Scheduling and curriculum are organized by Anne Conover. Teens participate bi-monthly in Journey to Adulthood (J2A). Kati Nicholson is our Youth Group Leader and Ali Haghjoo is the assistant. Youth Acolytes are trained by Anna Lisa Stonehill and the scheduling by Susan Caldwell. Youth Acolytes assist in worship at the 8:00 and 10:00 services. During the summer, four Friday nights in July, Vacation Bible School (VBS) returned with the theme “Journey with the Saints on Pilgrimage" and dedicated one evening to reach out ecumenically to the Coptic Christians on our campus, with our “voyage" to Alexandria, Egypt. July 8 2016, marked the fifth year of our Vacation Bible School series, “Journey with the Saints". It was a great time to celebrate a landmark year on the Camino Santiago de Compostello. Our theme was pilgrimage. The places of destination this year were Santiago, Spain; Assisi, Italy; Alexandria, Egypt; and Paris, France. Murry McClaren dutifully registered the youngsters and handed out T-shirts. Barbara Black led the singing and worship time. Susan Caldwell led the teaching time with a host of help from Elizabeth Henry, Evans Henry, Amany Fafla, Anna Simone Soliman, Emily Faller, Julie Sheffield, Rebecca Welch, the Reverend Barbara Stewart, Matthew Kiper, Michael Kiper, Stacie Tibbetts, Katherine Cash, Darryl Stevens, Dale Woolley, Pat Albers. Clyde Dodge took the VBS pictures and made a great photo spread for the For Love of Mike. Anne Conover and the VBS children ventured forth on pilgrimage to discover the wonders of the Saint Michael’s parish landscape standing in for our Mediterranean destinations. Food preparation and donations were made by Louise Stover, Corinne Stover, Barbara and Wally Paulson, Esther McNamee, Murry McClaren, Matt and Danielle Shaw, Claire and Brad Wheatley, Myrna Ireland, Julie and Julia Jenkins. A great time was had by all! The Nicholson family returned to Camp Stevens in Julian for summer camp. Our littlest angels continue to be faithfully cared for in our nursery by two trained and loving caregivers, Jenna Sickles and Megan Jensen. Throughout the year, the preschool age children are watched by Jenna Sickles, Megan Jensen, Rachel Blevins- Boor, Caddie Annerl, and Grace Vandervort. J2A - This year in the Youth Group, we kicked off the school year in September with some new approaches. Continuing to focus on making the J2A room a space where Kati Nicholson or Ali Haghjoo not only introduce a topic, but encourage and give opportunity for our teens to take the lead in sharing their thoughts, ideas, and actively contribute to the conversation. We invite discussion on timely topics (relevant items in the news) or those that are of interest to this age group, like discussing how music helps us reflect upon or express our 24 | P a g e
thoughts and feelings or to get through tough times. This year we are also trying another way to extend the conversation outside of our 30- minutes every second and fourth Sunday. Through a mobile application called Slack, we are able to introduce a topic to the group BEFORE Sunday so they have time to reflect. This mobile app is specifically designed for 'team-working' within a business environment - so it is secure and our J2A discussion group is closed to our members only. Finally, we would like to thank all the J2A and Youth Group Families who supported our SOS Adopted Family for Christmas! We went above and beyond in helping our family of 5 have a Fantastic Christmas - with presents that included a bicycle for a 12-year-old boy, warm clothes for a 15 month old girl, and enough Legos to keep a 10 year old boy busy for the whole holiday! The parents requested and received warm blankets, bedding, and towels for the whole family! Extras included groceries, toys, gingerbread kits, and books, including The Story of Christmas. Gift Cards for movie tickets, ice cream and Target filled the family stockings as well. Funds from the Youth Table at the Alternative Gift Fair made it possible for our group to afford big ticket items like the bicycle and a grocery gift card. Thank you to youth Imogen Kirsch for all her hard work at the Alternative Gift Fair. Next year we hope to expand on the success of the Youth Table with more hand-made crafts and gifts which we will work on throughout the year! Small Groups Small groups are at the heart of our Christian Education/Fellowship. They are great opportunities to get to know other members of our community. These groups welcome and encourage new members or visitors. Try a group that is new to you! The Bible Challenge: A reading and discussion group that began by reading the Bible Challenge. Other readings in 2016: “Walking Home, From Eden to Emmaus;” “The Bible Challenge: Journey with John.” Women's Fellowship These gatherings offer fellowship and conversation on many different topics; ranging from Church Next, TED Talks, to spirituality and prayer. It was generously held the last Tuesday of each month in the home of Beth and Norm Bianchi. Men’s Group This long-standing group meets each Thursday morning at 7:30 a.m. in the Davis Library. All men are invited to read the current book selection and participate in fellowship and discussion. A few of the book titles for this year have included: “Zealot” by Reza Aslan, and A.N. Wilson’s, “The Book of the People: How to Read the Bible”.
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Inklings Started in 2015, this group meets on the third Thursday of the month in the Davis Library at 9:30 a.m. to read and discuss the works of C. S. Lewis. Susan Caldwell leads the conversation and this year we focused on the devotional study “Praying with C.S. Lewis” by Charles C. Taliaferro. Liturgical Feast Days Celebrating feast days, the annual church calendar, and historic Christian events connect our Saint Michael and All Angels parish community to Christians across time. The parish community of all ages join one another as Christian Education Commission joins Fellowship, Evangelism, Worship, Mission Commissions, and our Music Ministry to bring our faith to life. Youth Choir Children practiced twice a month before Sunday School to prepare for choral presentations on special occasions and/or feast days. The Youth Choir sang a Czech Christmas song at the Pageant, titled “Hydom, Hydom”. Youth Choir is directed by Dr. Ray Urwin and assisted by Barbara Black. Shrove Tuesday Following a Shrove Tuesday story in the Godly Play style, the children packed a Lenten picnic basket with clay foods they had been working on in the preceding weeks. Members of the congregation of all ages gathered for a traditional Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner in All Angels’ Court. Susan Caldwell organized games such as pancake toss and pancake races. Beth Bianchi closed the evening with her compelling recitation on flannel board of “Saint Michael’s Pancake Man,” complete with Reverend Haynes, Susan Caldwell, Reverend Barbara Stewart, and parish bunnies. Palm Sunday Children brought noise makers and joined the congregation in procession proclaiming Hosanna in the Highest! Blessed is He Who Comes in the Name of Lord! Lenten Suppers Wednesdays Adult Christian Education coordinated the dinners given by Choir, Senior Ministry, Women’s Fellowship, the Men’s Group, Vestry, and Christian Education. The weekly program centered on Holy Week and the meaning of our Easter worship. Leaders included Anne and Steve Morris, Ruth Poole and Melinda Rader, Darryl Stevens, Susan Caldwell, Cliff Corbet.
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Stations of the Cross for Families A child centered and family appropriate drama of Christ's passion was presented by costumed adult parish members on Good Friday. Susan Caldwell led the readings. Station of the Cross actors and actresses were Myma Ireland as Pontius Pilate, Murry McClaren/Barabbas, Lynne Ruedy/King Herod, Maria Cummins/Mary, Simon the Farmer/Sy Black, Melinda Rader/Veronica, Anne Conover/Caiaphas, Barbara Black/The Woman with the Bread, Wally Paulson/Criminal, John Ireland/Dismas the Thief, Skylar Mineshima/Mary Magdalen, Annemaria Ballin/Salome, Dale Woolley/Nicodemus. Baptism Children and adults were prepared for baptism by The Very Reverend Canon Peter D. Haynes during a Feast Day. The most dramatic is during the Great Vigil of Easter. Easter Easter Sunday School lessons were followed by a delightful and glorious Easter Egg Festival in the parish garden and grounds. Children of all ages searched for eggs donated and hidden by Skylar Mineshima along with assistance from older children. Youth Sunday Recognized the culmination of the active Sunday School year as Sunday School students took on all of the lay roles usually held by adults: Readings, prayers of the people, choir, offering. High Schooler, Ries Fader was the homilist. Summer Sunday School We gave our dedicated teachers a break and took a new approach to Summer Sunday School with art and music lessons. Uniting lessons with the theme All Things Bright and Beautiful, Barbara Black led singing and Melinda Rader led art lessons. The teachers were supported by Rachel Blevins and Caddie Annerl. Student art was then used for greeting cards that were sold at the Alternative Gift Fair and supported our Mission fund. Confirmation The Youth Confirmand, Kai Arellano was prepared by Susan Caldwell and his mentor was Rebecca Welch. In August, 2016, Bishop Diane Jardine Bruce was present to pray and laid hands on both our Youth and Adult Confirmands. Adult Confirmands were Dale Woolsey, Anne Conover, Kathleen Peterson, Ben Blevins Boor and Michael Boor.
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Saint Michael's Day The annual celebration of our patron saint became a joyful Fall fair and Mexican Fiesta provided by Friends of Music, who also hired the “Balloon Man” to entertain the children with his incredible balloon creations. Saint Francis and Clare Day The Blessing of the Animals has been a focal point each Fall and part of our energetic approach to launch into the last weeks of the Christian calendar AND the re-formation of our fall program after a summer vacation. It brought out neighbors, friends, and pets for a blessing as part of God’s creation. Cavalcade of Saints We celebrated those who have come before us in the Faith the Sunday before All Saints’ Day with the children representing Saints in appropriate dress including props. The participants processed into the Sanctuary where they were individually interviewed by Susan Caldwell for the edification of the congregation. Saint Michael’s littlest saints included: Xander Annerl, Lily Biddulph, Ally Shaw, Katherine Shaw, Olivia Shaw, Charles Warmington, Andrews Warmington, Chapman Warmington, Evans Henry Imogen Kirsch, Zuri Agren, and Amari Agren. Praying our Goodbyes In 2016 Adult Christian Education contributed to this deeply meaningful Sunday commemoration of All Saints Day by adding a candle lighting ceremony, enabling all attendees to become active participants in the service. Dr. Ray Urwin was the homilist. Lynne Reudy, Ruth Poole, and Susan Caldwell assisted with readings. The Saint Michael and All Angels Choir hosted the music. Advent Wreaths The Sunday School children and youth assembled Advent wreaths with fresh greens and candles to take home for their families’ observation of Advent. Advent calendars were also distributed. Christian Education also coordinated the families who lit the sanctuary wreath each week at our 10:00 service. SOS Family Christmas As individuals brought gifts to bring Christmas to a family in need. Our J2A group sponsored an entire family and wrapped gifts to take to them for Christmas.
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Children’s Christmas Pageant The children and youth took us on our annual Journey to Bethlehem with the story of The First Christmas on the Sunday afternoon before Christmas, December 18. The cast included: Matthew Poska as the Narrator; Evans Henry as Joseph; Imogen Kirsch as Mary, the mother of Jesus; Lily Biddulph as the Angel Gabriel; Ally Shaw as The Star of Bethlehem; Michael Kiper and Taite Nicholson as Innkeepers; Matthew Kiper, Chapman Warmington, Tess Nicholson as The Prophets and The Magi; Katherine Shaw, Olivia Shaw, Amari Agren as the Heavenly Host of Angels; Xander Annerf, Andrews Warmington, Zuri Agren as the Shepherds. Charlotte Nicholson as Baby Jesus. Anne Conover directed the Pageant. Dr. Ray Urwin directed and accompanied all the music. All the families were instrumental in assisting in the production and encouraging the commitment and participation of every child involved, including the children who experienced the pageant in Sunday School rehearsals as well as the children who performed in the pageant on December 18. As Anne Conover said, “When our children tell the story each year, taking a new role in the birth of Jesus, the truth of the story becomes part of who they are.” Expanding Program - Preschool For several years forming an Episcopal preschool at Saint Michael and All Angels has been under discussion. With a generous gift from Ray and Monty Pentz, it is now becoming a reality. In 2016, the Vestry approved the formation of a Board to develop a school for 2 - 6-year-old children. In December, we applied for a license from the State of California and the Vestry approved a budget of $35,000 from our parish endowment to refresh and furnish classrooms to meet Social Service requirements for the license. Development of curriculum will continue this year with the goal of enrolling our first students in September 2017. Susan Caldwell, Director of Christian Education Melinda Rader, Christian Education Vestry Anne Conover, Sunday School Leader Kati Nicholson, Youth Lead
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EVANGELISM REPORT A big thank you to all hosts/greeters for all that you do each Sunday. This is a commitment and you all do a great job making sure that everyone feels welcome. Thank you. We had a very positive response to the information cards that were inserted in the Easter bulletins. I plan on doing the same for Easter 2017. A new event in 2016 was the first annual “Garden Walk" which was held on Sunday afternoon, June 12th. Thank you to the fabulous Welcome Committee who helped organize this fun, neighborhood event. The committee provided delicious cookies and homemade lemonade. Celtic music provided by four musicians including SMAA parishioners, Steve and Michele Dulson, was a wonderful addition to the day. Melinda Rader played a huge role in making this event such a success! Melinda created the banners, flyers and the very informative guided tour of the garden. I hope we can have another “Garden Walk” in 2017! On December 4, 2016, we sang Christmas carols at the 38th annual Corona del Mar Christmas Walk. We had a great turn out this year and it was a wonderful experience for all ages! The children had fun handing out candy canes and flyers detailing SMAA's Christmas schedule. We have a great spot in front of Sherman Library and Gardens and I look forward to even greater participation next year. If you need a nametag or you have a lost or broken one, please leave a note on the nametag stand and I will order a replacement for you. Thank you ALL for making Saint Michael & All Angels a warm and welcome place for people to visit and worship. If you would like to be included in the host/greeter rotation, please let me know. All my best, Anne Warmington Evangelism Commission
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MISSION COMISSION REPORT The task of the Mission Commission is to help us witness to God's love and compassion for the world and those in it. This takes place in a variety of settings, some of which are described below. We encourage you to participate both in these projects and in those ways you see in the church and the world. Adopt a Family This year we worked with SOS to adopt three families at Christmas. Our youth provided the gifts for one of the families; the parish, the other two. A wonderful spirit of giving was shown in providing, wrapping, and delivering the gifts. Alternative Gift Market The Alternative Gift Market on November 13, with a follow-up day on November 20, was a wonderful opportunity for fellowship, shopping, and the support of various ministries - a great combination! Those participating in the Market included African Team Ministries, the Free Wheelchair Mission, Heifer Project, the Labyrinth at St. Michael's, Loaves and Fishes, SERRV, Courtney Falde, Zatoun and the Folk-Art Mavens, St. Michael's Teens, St. Michael's Garden, and Michael's Market, where homemade gifts from parish members were sold. A total of $7311.39 was raised and distributed. Thank you to all who helped prepare materials, set up and staff the tables, and collect money. Canterbury Irvine St. Michael's continues its close relationship and financial support for Canterbury Irvine, the Episcopal ministry at the University of California Irvine. Compass Rose Society St. Michael and All Angels is a parish member of the Anglican Communion Compass Rose Society, an international mission organization. Parishioner and Vestry Member Norris Battin is a member of its board of directors, responsible for the Society's communication activities. The Society meets annually in London. A Compass Rose Society visit to a diocese in the wider Communion or a study trip to an Anglican heritage location usually follows the meeting. The Society supports the work of the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Anglican Communion. Founded in 1994, the Society has become an important financial resource to the Communion and a valuable voice in communicating news of the work which maintains and improves unity in the Communion. Since its inception, the Society has contributed more than $8.5 million to support the Communion. Its 300+ members come from 11 countries and are comprised of individuals, parishes, chapters, and dioceses. 31 | P a g e
Loaves and Fishes This Santa Ana based organization continues to support individuals and families in need. Each month, based on the needs of the organization, a different item is highlighted for us to contribute. Among the items, we have contributed are socks, toiletries, cereal, coffee, rice and beans, and school supplies, as well as financial support. Share Ourselves SOS, located in Costa Mesa, offers healthcare, pharmacy services, dental care, social and clinical case management, and food to those in need. The money collected on Souper Bowl Sunday was sent to SOS, as well as part of the Mission Commission budget and Alternative Gift Market proceeds. Theological Education A resolution passed by the General Convention of our Episcopal Church guides congregations to designate 1% of their current program budget for theological education. In 2016, money was sent to the Church Divinity School of the Pacific in Berkeley, CA. United Thank Offering The United Thank Offering is generously supported in our Spring and Fall ingatherings. Information about the projects supported by UTO is available in booklets in Michael's Room. Remember: every day is a day of thanksgiving!
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WORSHIP COMISSION REPORT Your 2016 Worship Commission was attended by leaders (recruiters/ trainers/schedulers) of its constituent groups: Sue Ahearn, Louise Stover and Cathy Dunlap (Altar Guild), Myrna Ireland (Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Subdeacons, Readers/Lectors and Litanists), Jim Headley and Clyde Dodge (Ushers) , Susan Caldwell (Acolytes, and Christian Education/Sunday School/Youth), Ray Urwin (Music), Norris Battin and Lynne Ruedy ("Praying Our Goodbyes") Lynn Headley and The Very Rev'd Canon Peter Haynes (Chair). Cur Acolytes included: William Akerblom, Ben Blevins-Boor, Marco Caldarone, Craig Kennedy, Evans Henry, Matthew Kiper, Michael Kiper, Karlene Miller, Matthew Valentine-Poska, Colette Spence, Darryl Stevens, Anna-Lisa Stonehill, Stacie Tibbetts and Charles Warmington. Our Altar Guild included: Sue Ahearn, Louise Stover, Cathy Dunlap, Frances Fukuda, Sherry Crail, Jackie Dodd, Gail Hagnjoo, Peter Haynes, Myrna & John Ireland, Julie Jenkins, Esther McNamee, Gloria Oakes, Jim & Carole Levale Palda, Barbara & Wally Paulson, Melinda Rader, Wendy Salter, Verda & Dick Schroeder, Darryl & Deb Stevens, Stacie Tibbets, and Clare & Brad Wheatley. Our Ushers included: Jim Headley, Cat and Xander Annerl, Norris Battin, Norm Bianchi, Laird Blue, Susan Brown, Clyde Dodge, Steve Dulson, Russ Hardt, Bryant Henry, John Hollern, John Ireland, Jack Keating, Peggy Maradudin, Jim Palda, Ray Pentz, Mark Peterson, Ally Shaw, Don Sheetz, and Bob Wolfe. Our lectors/layreaders/litanists included Myrna Ireland*, Sandi Ames*, Norris Battin*, Beth Bianchi, Barbara Black*, Judy Brady, Susan Brown, Susan Caldwell*, Anne Conover, Cliff Corbet**, Sherry Crail*, Jackie Dodd*, Clyde Dodge*, Jill Draffin*, Michele Dulson, Steve Dulson*, Emily Faller, Jan Faller, Lynn Headley*, Elizabeth Henry*, Julie Jenkins*, Craig Kennedy*, Kristy Kipper*, Peggy Maradudin*, Karlene Miller*, Ann Morris**, Steve Morris**, Keith Nelson, Kaci Mowat Nicholson*, Jim Palda*, Kathleen Peterson**, Mark Peterson, Ruth Poole*, Jennifer Pulford*, Melinda Rader*, Lynne Ruedy, Don Sheetz, Colette Spence*, Darryl Stevens**, Ccrinne Stover*, Louise Stover*, John Strong*, Ray Urwin, Ann Warmington*, Chace Warmington, and Richard Zevnik**. * denotes licensed Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs) ** denotes subdeacons We welcome more and more parishioners to become worship leaders: acolytes Altar Guilders, ushers, readers/lectors/litanists/Lay Ministers/subdeacons In 2016 there were one hundred and four public celebrations of the Holy Eucharist on Saturday evenings and Sundays and sixty-two on weekdays; there were fifty-five private offerings of Holy Communion/Eucharist. There were thirty Daily offices held on Sundays and forty-nine held on weekdays. We celebrated Holy Baptism with Lily Anne Palazzola, London Winter Brian Story, and Hunter August Epple. On August 14 Susan Caldwell presented, and The Right Reverend Diane Jardine Bruce confirmed: Kai Noah Arellano, Benjamin Reese Blevins-Boor, Peter Michael Boor, Anne Marie Conover, Kathleen Anne Peterson and Dale Carson Woolley. 33 | P a g e
We celebrated the marriages of Bradley Hughson Stone & Jessica Nicole Milner, Erica Deane Berge Thomas & Joshua Douglas Bates, Michael James McDonald & Lynda Kay Olsen, and Susan Kuhs Brown & Frank Dawson Bean. We celebrated the lives of, and buried: Joseph Augustus Benjamin, Richard Horatio Lemmon, Lillian Rickenbaugh Lumpkin, Charles (Chuck) Rudoloph Spence, Albert (Tim) Magloire De La Plante, and Frances Irene Fukuda. Thanks to Louise Stover and Susan Beechner, we continue to appreciate weekly forms for "Prayers of the People" during Sunday morning worship. All worshipers are encouraged to add thanksgivings and petitions thereby enriching and revitalizing our corporate life in prayer, an "attitude' of gratitude." 'On Pentecost, May 15th, we prayed "Our Father. . ." - "Padre Nuestro" in many languages. Once again, we had many balloons which seems to all to be rightly uplifting on Holy Spirit Day. On June 5th, we celebrated our second U2charist with the songs of U2 performed by The Joshua Tree, this time on a Sunday morning in our sanctuary. That 'afternoon Friends of Music brought us Jazz Vespers with music provided by (The Rev'd) Norm Freeman and his quartet. We are looking forward towards making the first Sunday in June a regular occasion to present special worship with unusual musical accompaniment. We very successfully celebrated one Sunday Eucharist at 9:00 a.m. from May 29th (Memorial Day weekend) through September 4th (Labor Day weekend). Our "Blessing of the Animals" honoring Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi on the first Sunday in October is always wonderful. We seem to see more and more neighbors; so in addition to giving them a medal for the collar of their dog or cat and we handed them a gentle invitation created by Clyde Dodge. for visitors on such special occasions inviting them to become more involved with our faith community. On Sunday afternoon on November 6 when we celebrated All Saints/Souls, we offered our 17th annual "Praying Out Goodbyes" worship service to remember those we love but see no longer in anticipation of the coming holiday season which is often difficult for those remembering happier times In 2016, our Worship Commission spent $20,538.06 on music and choir, organ repair and piano tuning; this included our section leaders, instrumentalists on special occasions, substitute organists and soloists, copyright licenses and memberships in musical associations and organizations. $1,955.06 was spent on worship bulletin covers and lectionary inserts, palm crosses, liturgical calendars, liturgical bread and wine, and gifts such as Books of Common Prayer and New Revised Standard Version Bibles for candidates for baptism, confirmation and reception as well as to other parishioners. This Commission's responsibilities include the ritual, ceremony, and liturgical choreography of this Parish Church. An established schedule of worship opportunities is augmented for festivals. 34 | P a g e
This Christian community gives primary importance to our opportunities for worship which continue to be the central focus of our life together in Christ. Thanks be to God! Respectfully submitted, The Very Rev'd Canon Peter D. Haynes Rector/Senior Pastor
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MUSIC REPORT Dr. Ray Urwin, Minister of Music As I write this it is just a few days past the third anniversary of my coming to St. Michael's as your Minister of Music. It has been a great ride, and I very much appreciate your compliments to me! St Michaels Parish Choir Our Parish Choir more often than not gives an excellent rendition of the music we sing, both choral and congregational. I try to select a variety of quality music for us. But, however competent I might be, there is only one of me, and I can't be a choir - so our hard-working and persevering choir members deserve much credit for enhancing our outstanding music program at St. Michael's. I find it difficult to single out outstanding occasions, but last year they included Holy Week and Easter, St. Michael's Day, the Praying our Goodbyes service in November, the Advent Lessons and Music service in December, and the Gift of Music on Christmas Eve. After a beautiful Lenten Evensong with music by Heinrich Schiitz, Gerald Near, and the Tudor composer William Mundy, we had inspiring and glorious services last Holy Week. It was my privilege and honor to serve as the narrator for the Passion Sunday Gospel reading, as I will this year. Among the other beautiful services that week, we had a glorious celebration on Easter Day, with a full brass quartet. Our main offering that day was a piece by Gwyneth Walker (b. 1947), an outstanding American composer. Yes, women do write music! It's just not heard enough, and I'm working on that... In September, we had our usual St. Michael's Day festivities, combined with our Friends of Music fundraiser. Carver Cossey joined us for rousing choral and group singing. The post-service party showcased the talents of Mr. Cossey, our section leaders, parishioners Michele and Steve Dulson, and others. We had a rousing good time, and I noticed that few were in any hurry to leave! Our Praying Our Goodbyes service took a distinctly different direction last year. Susan Caldwell and I spent much time and worked very hard to enhance this service. The readings last year had a multicultural bent, including short narratives of Native American, Jewish, Asian, and African concepts about saying farewell to those who have died. The service included prayers from the outstanding New Zealand Prayer Book, music by St.-Saens and others, and an opportunity to light candles in memory of loved ones who have passed. And I made my St. Michael's debut as a homilist We received many compliments for this service, the first offering last fall from our Friends of Music. 36 | P a g e
Our Advent Lessons and Carols service was equally outstanding and inspiring, with music by contemporary composers Daniel Gawthrop, Dale Jergensen (a local composer), and Thomas Keesecker, as well as more traditional composers such as Orlando di Lasso, Jakob Handl, and Peter Warlock. And our Christmas Eve services, enhanced by a string quartet, were excellent, with Gift of Music and service offerings by Mozart, Praetorius, Rameau, Gunther Raphael, Bach, and a Huron/Canadian carol I arranged. Our Parish Choir was especially outstanding at this service. Youth Choir Finding a convenient rehearsal time and day for this group has been a perennial issue for several years and through the tenure of several music directors. Last year we concluded that the best time is on selected Sunday mornings, when the children are already here (rather than a weekday), and I believe we have found the best solution to the scheduling issue. Almost a dozen children sang during the 2016 Christmas pageant service. I found a YouTube video of the piece I selected for the service (a Czech carol), it was emailed to the parents, and if you were there December 18th you heard them belt it out! In 2015 several people told me that it was the best children's group we've had in many years, but it was even better last year. We will be continuing to rehearse on selected Sundays during the year, and singing during occasional services. I think education is one of the most essential things a parish does, and to this end part of most Youth Choir rehearsals include the rudiments of both music and vocabulary reading. Adult Education In 20151 visited the Adult Education Sundays at 9:00 group, giving a presentation on our hymnal. My spring plans with this lively and interesting group include a crash course in basic music reading, and a tour of the organ console. Ideas for this year I would very much like to do a "general" Evensong service (i. e. not tied to Advent or Lent) sometime this year - maybe this spring or next fall. I also want to make more use of the handbells and explore using solo instruments with both choirs and congregation. We are also exploring a service based on the "O" Antiphons of Advent, and perhaps a Lenten Lessons and Carols service. Stay tuned! Other ideas: Occasional instrumental and/or vocal music during the summer, more vocal chamber music (i.e. duets, trios, quartets, with our outstanding section leaders. 37 | P a g e
Wish List If I could wish one thing, it would be for more of you to come out for our "special" services, i.e. those not on Sunday mornings: Praying our Goodbyes, Advent Lessons and Carols, and Lenten Evensongs. They are not long, and very inspiring. Evensong, for example, a beautiful service, thought by many to be to crowning glory of the Anglican liturgical tradition, with much Anglican music composed for this specific service. We work very hard to put these beautiful services together, and I would very much like to see more attend and be inspired by them. I thank Peter/ the staff, the choir members and parents, and you the congregation for making my ministry such a pleasure. I have seldom had a congregation which sings so vigorously - even on new and less familiar music! It is a pleasure and privilege to lead all of you - choirs and congregation - in glorifying God! Onward! Ray W. Urwin, Minister of Music
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ALTAR GUILD REPORT The Altar Guild is a ministry that contributes to the beauty and harmony of our worship experience. The Altar Guild is responsible for assisting the clergy in setting the physical environment for worship. The Altar Guild (and Flower Guild) provides and prepares altar linens, candles, flowers, Eucharistic vessels, vestments and sacramental supplies for worship at all services, including weddings, baptisms, celebrations of life, etc. The Altar Guild membership serves on a year-round basis with special attention and time given to the celebrations of Christmas, Holy Week and Easter. At Saint Michael & All Angels, our altar guild membership is divided into four regular worship teams (ideally consisting of at least 2 members each), each of which is responsible for setting the altar for regular worship service once each month. Each team participates in a preparation session, followed by either an 8 a.m. or 10:00 a.m, altar set - up and clean-up on Sunday. The teams all work under the supervision of the clergy and the Director of the Altar Guild, who is chosen to serve for a three-year term. The Altar Guild is currently under the direction of Sue Ahearn, Cathy Dunlap and Louise Stover. The Flower Guild recently lost our dear Frances Fukuda who provided her inestimable talent to Saint Michaels as well as leadership and training to the flower guild parishioners who served over the years. She had planned to retire this year and had selected Gail Haghjoo to lead the guild. Gail held a welcome meeting on January 14th and 3 members have joined. This brings the team up to 6 members for the new year. The guild is excited to provide the beauty of flowers and plants to enhance our worship experience. Flower Guild welcomes all to join and work with the current members to prepare flowers once a month. We are now' in our third year with most services understaffed. The Rector reached out to the parishioners to ask for volunteers for the Altar Guild. Unfortunately, his recruitment did not yield any new members. The membership; although lean, is committed, supportive and very friendly to all. We invite men and women of all ages to prayerfully consider joining this worship ministry. We provide ongoing training and support. You will always have another member to help guide you. We assure you it is very rewarding and well-suited to all parishioners and is completely "do-able" in everyone's schedule. Even if you only have time for the once a month weekend set-up or after service clean-up, w'e desperately need you and will appreciate your gift of time and care. There are many different commitment levels, including the following options: #1. Wednesday Healing Eucharist - the service is set up by the Sunday team. Ideally, an Altar 39 | P a g e
Guild member assists the Rector in this quiet and reflective service from 12p - 12:30 pm (this is a wonderful opportunity to serve if you have limited time on the weekends). #2: 800 a.m. Sunday -Arrive at 7:30 a.m. - set out Eucharistic elements for worship. -Clean up after service and set out Eucharistic elements for 10:00 a.m. worship. -Set up on Friday afternoon or Saturday after the Coptic services, restock candles, etc. (approx. 1/2-1 hour) #3: 10:00 a.m. Sunday -Arrive by 9:40 a.m. - attend to any last-minute set-up needs-Clean up after service and set out Eucharistic elements for Wednesday Healing Eucharist (approx. 1/2-1 hour) #4-AG-Lite" Option Clean up after 10:00 a.m., service and set up for Wednesday service (sometimes this takes no more than 15-minutes and there's still time for coffee!) If you are visiting the area for a season and would like to help out during your stay in Orange County, we would love to have you join us
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STEWARDSHIP REPORT (2017 Stewardship Campaign - "Living Generously" The 2017 Stewardship campaign was based on The Episcopal Network for Stewardship (TENS) program - "Living Generously" program. The formal Stewardship Campaign kicked off on October 2 running 6 weeks, culminating on November 6th. Below are the figures of pledges received for 2017 vs 2016. While total pledge numbers are down, the average pledge received is higher than 2016 as families are increasing pledges year over year. For Year 201S:
For Year 2016:
111 pledges; Total:
$335,485.00
98 pledges; Total:
$297,409.00
Pledge per unit:
$3,022.38
Pledge per unit:
$3,034.79
Changes: 2016 to 2017 Totals change:
($38,076.00)
Change in pledge/unit:
$251.84
Change in # of pledges:
>13
Continued efforts are being made to increase the total participation prior to the annual meeting, as there are several active families that fulfilled pledges in 2016 who have yet to commit for 2017. State of Stewardship The dedication of the core of our parish is strong as I have witnessed in the last three years as your stewardship commissioner. Many people give tirelessly of their time and money. In each year, we have seen the average pledge per family increase, a strong dedication to the efforts to keep the parish strong. Unfortunately, we have seen loss over the last three years. The parish lost two pledgers in the last month of the year who combined for $22,000 of pledges for 2016 (and had intended to pledge the same for 2017). This loss is a reminder that we need to continue to grow the membership of the church to ensure the long-term stability of our operation. On the positive side, we had eight families pledge in 2017 who didn't pledge in 2016. While not uncommon, the 5 largest givers in the church comprise 25% of all pledge income and growing the base will enable us to continue to grow the programs and maintain the campus in a manner that we are all proud of. 41 | P a g e
FINANCE REPORT We have had a good year! We paid off the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Building our Faithâ&#x20AC;? loan in full, and plans for our Pre- School are going forward. And, we ended the year in the black! Our year income was $511,215 and our expenses were $499,374. This left a surplus of over $10,000. The Pledge income was $340,844 which very close to being what we had in the 2016 Budget. Thank you all who got your pledges in by the end of the year. The Plate income (including Christmas/Easter/Thanksgiving) and the Non-Pledge income came to a total of $128,224. We still have the Verizon Lease which gave us $21,739. The Parish Center Donations from the groups who use are facility came to a total of $74,565. Please note that we are able to raise the amount for Mission Share Fund to the Diocese to $40,000. I want to thank my loyal and wise Finance Committee. They have been a wonderful support to me for tbe past three years. I also want to thank all of you parishioners who have come up with funds, as needed. It has been a pleasure for me to serve you. I have a plea! Please consider being a Teller to count the money after the 10:00 service. We are always in need of helpers. You can leave your name in the office Julie Jenkins, Finance Chairman
PLEASE SEE PRINTED REPORT FOR 2017 BUDGET
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2017 Vestry Election Ballot
Option A Block Vote "I vote for the slate of candidates as presented.â&#x20AC;? []
Option B Voting by Candidate Beth Bianchi
3 year term
Larry Casey
3 year term
Clyde Dodge
2 year term
Craig Kennedy
2 year term
Murry McClaren
3 year term
Kati Nicholson
3 year term
Mark Peterson
3 year term
Stacie
3 year term
Tibbetts
7 year term
Delegates to Diocesan Convention Steve Dulson Lynn Headley Hurry McClaren Richard Zevnik
Alternates Norris Battin Lynne Ruedy Rebecca Welch
[ __________
Representative to Deanery Ten 43 | P a g e
Rebecca Welch
[