September tidings 2014

Sunday Sunday Worship Worship 9:00 9:00 am am Kids Kids Worship Worship 9:20 9:20 am am Come One, Come All September 14 Our Mission Statement: Our Mission Statement: “Bringing the Healing Love of Christ “Bringing the Healing Love of Christ To Our Community for To Our Community for the Glory of God” the Glory of God”

September 2014 September 2014

Vol. 119 Vol. 119

St. John United Church of Christ is an open and affirming congregation who is welcoming and

embracing of every person, of every race, age, nationality, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression as a child of God. We invite all to join and fully participate in the life and ministry of this church.

STAFF Ministers………………….…The Members of the Church Senior Pastor……………………….……Donnley Dutcher Director of Children & Youth Ministry / Director of technologies………………………………...…Kevin Eckert Youth Ministry Assistants ………….....Jasmine Coleman, Christine Busker & Savanna Mueller Ministry of Church Life & Membership…......Pam Wessel Staff secretary…………….…………………….jody akins Choir Director…………………….……….....Gina Bertram Organists………………………..….…..….Carole Bertram

OFFICE HOURS Monday– Friday...…8:30 am—12:30 pm & 1:00 pm—4:00 pm

Church (815) 235-2824

E-Mail: stjohn@comcast.net

www.stjohnuccfreeport.org 2

CELEBRATING A COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE On September 28, 2014, there will be a dual celebration in the life of the St. John United Church of Christ. The church will be welcoming a class of confirmands, who have completed a learning and reaffirmation of their faith with the support of their sponsors; along with persons who will give their commitment to the vision of St. John UCC by becoming members. Both of these groups have elected to embrace and participate in the life and ministry of St. John United Church of Christ.

What a joy and honor it will be to bring these latest stewards and disciples into the membership of the church!

The confirmands and new members will be embarking on an exploration and expansion of their faith as they enter this current phase of their ongoing spiritual journey. St. John is also embarking on our unfolding future with great anticipation as we approach the year end, and the onset of the interim period with the retirement of Pastor Donnley. What is your vision of the direction and future of St. John United Church of Christ?

A recent gift authorized by the Endowment Board alleviated financial stress and budgetary concerns for the immediate future. But, the simple fact remains that the church has economic obligations that have to be satisfied regardless of external factors. It takes consistent and regular giving and contributions to enable St. John to continue to be a voice for and to its members, and the community, in which it performs its ministry. You and we, as ministers of the church, have the responsibility and duty to meet the monetary requirements for the church to continue with strength of presence and ministry. This will be most important as we approach and enter the interim period almost upon us.

We ask you, and all members and close friends of St. John, to spend time in personal reflection on your giving and support of this ministry. Is it possible to increase your giving as we approach the interim phase even by a minimal amount?

The foundation of this church, both literally and figuratively, rests upon its members through their participation in the life and worship of the church and the financial support they provide. It would truly be a blessing if St. John could enter the interim phase with no financial concerns and a central focus on highlighting the strength, faith, and promise of our church and its members. The future is truly in our hands.

Your Stewardship Ministry St. John UCC

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AS THE SPIRIT MOVES ME…..

I just had somebody ask about their “cloud of witnesses.” I’m reminded of the movie, Amistad; probably not something that happened in the original Amistad case, but still, a powerful scene for me.

The scene was between John Quincy Adams, the exPresident of the United States (played by Anthony Hopkins) and Cinque (played by Djimon Hounsou), the slave for whose freedom Pres. Adams was about to argue his case before the U. S. Supreme Court - a true occurrence. Cinque, essentially, tells Pres. Adams he will be successful because he, Cinque, has called upon the spirit of his ancestors to be with him.

It was an incredibly powerful scene for me, for I believe we are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” as the Letter to the Hebrews in the New Testament declares. I am mindful of many of them. In fact, I have a place to which I can go in my mind and see them. The memory of them, seeing them, feeling their presence, reconnecting with them in that way, and remembering what we had between us brings gladness, peace, and joy to my spirit. It’s a feeling of great satisfaction, peace, fulfillment, and a connection with the eternal.

I have so many people in my “cloud of witnesses;” probably more than most people, for they have honored me by allowing me to walk the way of life, and death, and faith with them. I’ve officiated at the funerals of most of them; but, more important than that, a piece of their spirit is a part of my spirit, because they allowed me to walk those paths with them. They’re a part of me, now and forever, because what we had between us shaped, formed, informed, and influenced who I have become.

I’m reminded of Christ’s words in the Gospel of John, as He speaks to His followers: “On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in me, and you in me.” (14:20) My “cloud of witnesses” do not only surround me, their spirit dwells within me; and even those who have gone long before me, in ages past. They, too, dwell within me; and I am who I am, in part, because of them! Praise God! I can’t give you the names of all of the people of whom I am mindful, for I have probably officiated at nearly 500 funerals in my 40 years of ministry. I don’t even have the space to name all the people for whom I’ve officiated at their funerals here at St. John UCC - close to 150.

They’re all there, though, in my “cloud of witnesses.” Some of them are just more in the forefront: Lois, Rich, Megan, Paul, Shirley, Laura,

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Chad, Art, Wilma, Peter, Connie, “Whitey,” Bob, Mike, Ed, John, Jane, Ray, Dorothy, Bud, Helen, Mora, Norma, Ron, Bill, Dick, Randall, Marilyn, Russ, Joyce, Maida, Jerry .. and so many more, such as family members, extended family, and the rest of those 150.

These are just some of my personal saints in heaven. I see them standing above me and about me whenever I look up to them. It is a great gathering of people through whom God has richly blessed me.

My faith and belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ helps me whenever I remember and look to them, because I believe my spirit will join them, some day, long in the future. (I’m planning on living to 100 and praying that God will bless me with sound mind and able body!)

But, for now, I’m blessed to have their mindful presence with me in my moments and days of reflection after officiating at yet another funeral. I’m glad for who God is.

Who are the saints in your “cloud of witnesses”?

How does your faith in Jesus Christ confirm your belief in their living spiritual presence in your life?

How does nurturing your faith and spirit in worship help you keep in touch with their spirit by keeping in touch with God’s spirit? They are with us in worship, you know, especially during Holy Communion.

May you have the faith and spiritual connection to know it and feel it, too! Come to worship and re-connect with them in a new way!

SPIRITUAL RETREAT Pastor Dutcher will be on a personal spiritual retreat, Sunday afternoon September 28 through Thursday, October 2. Please contact the Rev. Carol Ahrens at (815) 616-8901, the Rev. Stan Bomgarden at (815) 441-2165, or the Rev. Becky Hebert at (815) 616-5904, at any time during the week, if you are in need of pastoral services in Pastor Dutcher’s absence.

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An Open Letter to St. John UCC: I want to thank the members and friends of St. John's and Rev. Dutcher for having an “Open and Affirming” church. I am sure the path to this decision was not an easy one. I also feel saddened by the members and friends who are still not happy with this decision. I believe God has led me to this church to be a member and help where I can. Maybe I can help, a little, just by being the person God has led me to be.

You see, my husband and I were started on the adult path to be Christians over 24 years ago. We became members of the Metropolitan Community Church (M.C.C.). One day, Tom read an article in the church bulletin. It stated that the church was hoping to find a couple that were willing to have a Holy Union - the only marriage option open to Gays and Lesbians, at the time - on a float in the L.A. Gay Pride Parade. The float was to bring attention to a subject called Marriage Equality. Now, we believed we should do this; but, we, also, believed we would never see Marriage Equality in our lifetime.

The night before our Holy Union our Pastor called us into her office. The L.A.P.D. had contacted her. They wanted us to know there had been death threats made against us, and the police wanted us to wear bullet-proof vests. Not only did we not wear the vests, but we did have the Holy Union on the float.

Now, the protesters were at the parade, too. They had a small section that had been barricaded off by the police for their own protection. Those protesters were none other than Fred Phelps and the Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, KS. Our float stopped right in front of their barricade. We all gathered near the protesters and prayed for them. We prayed for love and understanding. That day, we “came out” as gay and in a committed relationship. We, also, “came out” as gay Christians.

On July 19, 2014, Tom and I became each other’s legal husband in a religious ceremony in our backyard. Rev. Dutcher performed the ceremony in front of 15, or so, friends and family. We will always be very thankful to Rev, Dutcher for this. We fully understand what a man of faith he is and “the guts and faith” it took for him to perform this ceremony, when others didn't want him to do this.

Tom and I have been in a committed relationship for almost 35 years. We believe in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. We believe in St. John UCC and we believe in you.

Please have the power of conviction to speak with us, personally, if you disagree with what Rev. Dutcher, Tom and I have done. There is nothing you can say that we have not heard. We will listen with an open heart and mind, the way Christ has taught us. We ask you to do the same.

Your Brother in Christ, Timothy Campbell-Outcault

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Last month we held our annual Vacation Bible School. We partnered with First, Trinity, and Embury United Methodist Churches. All had a wonderful time. We welcomed 47 students and we were blessed with 41 servant leaders. Next year, First UMC will be hosting VBS. I’m already looking at curriculum for our time together. On August 9, Deb Scott and a few of her colleagues held a workshop for our teens who are struggling with feelings and emotions. Their presentation was very informative and thought provoking. I plan to continue to use their presentation materials with our students.

This week I have been preparing for a new four week series in Kids’ worship. For the last two years we have been moving through the Old Testament. This new series begins our exploration of Jesus.

Along with preparing Kids’ Worship, I am gearing up for our Helix Fall Kickoff. We will be creating a gift bag between now and October 25. This gift bag will contain youth friendly toys, trinkets, and gear. If you are interested in donating gift cards, candy, or local gift certificates, we would really appreciate it.

We will collect these items and place them into the HELIX SWAG BAG. Any student who brings a new person to Helix will receive an entry into the drawing for the swag bag.

Student’s chances of winning the swag bag increase as a result of the people they introduce to our Youth Ministry Program. We will be holding the final drawing at our annual Halloween Lock-in.

I’m also excited about our upcoming event: “Come One, Come All” being held on September 14. We encourage you to invite friends, neighbors, and family. Please sign up on the bulletin board so we know how many to plan for.

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We will have several inflatable attractions for children and teens. My party themed Kids Worship will be smashing several student-made piñatas during our festivities. Your children will not want to miss this event.

Consumed by the Call, Kevin Eckert Director of Children & Youth Ministries

Prism Lighthouse LGBT fundraiser The Prism Lighthouse LGBT is having a fundraiser for one of St. John's very own seminary students, Jason Carson Wilson.

On Sunday September 28th we are having a bake sale to raise funds to help support Jason. He is in need of some money to help him buy fresh food, such as fish, beef, or chicken and yogurt and butter. We are also having a food drive for him. We are looking for canned vegetables. If you would like to buy more unusual items, such as raw or roasted almonds without salt , English or Irish breakfast teas, or Earl grey and coffee, he would be very appreciative. (If you’re a dog lover and you prefer to give Purina Dog Chow to Jason’s dog, Riley, that would be fine, too.)

The Prism Lighthouse is also looking for people with a talent for baking. We need all sorts of baked goods for the sale.

Cakes, cupcakes, pies, and breads. You bake it and name it and we will sell it. Sign up on the bulletin board if you are able to donate something. If you’re able to help in any other way, please feel free to contact Tim or Tom Campbell-Outcault either after church or by phone at 815-233-0648.

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Confirmation Sunday & New Members Received On September 28, 2014, there will be a dual celebration in the life of St. John UCC. The church will be welcoming a class of confirmands, who have completed a learning and reaffirmation of their faith with the support of their sponsors; along with persons who will give their commitment to the vision of St. John UCC by becoming members. Both of these groups have elected to embrace and participate in the life and ministry of St. John UCC. What a joy and honor it will be to bring these latest stewards and disciples into the membership of the church!

L O F C L A S S S TA R T S LOF (Learning Our Faith) class will be starting on September 14 at 10:30 am in the LOF classroom. We will start the year with a discussion of the book “Scarred By Struggle, Transformed By Hope� by Joan D. Chittister. Copies of the book may be purchased in the office for $11.

LOF is not a Bible study group, it is an open, wide-ranging discussion, where you will feel free to voice your opinion. All are welcome.

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COMMUNION SERVERS NEEDED! We are looking to expand our volunteer list for Communion Servers and hope you will consider serving occasionally. It has been getting more difficult to find enough helpers. The Worship Ministry can provide training, but it is not difficult. Please let Vicki Spyrison or Lisa Ebbers know if you are willing to help, or with any questions. Thanks much!

S.O.S., Bell Choir, and Chancel Choir Rehearsals will start September 4. S.O.S. at 5:30 pm, Bells at 6:30 pm, and Choir at 7:15 pm. We welcome our regulars back and hope you had a fun and restful summer. We also welcome new members to come and try us out. We enjoy music in many ways and can honestly say, we have the best and cheapest therapy offered on Thursday nights. I look forward to hearing from you soon. Gina Bertram

“JAZZIN’ IT UP!” Mark your calendars for this concert experience with “Hometown Favorite” Pianist, Singer, and Producer: “Maestro” Carl Cole. Saturday, September 13, from 7-9 pm at the Freeport Masonic Temple.

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MISSIONS RED CAN SUNDAY We will be receiving monetary donations on September 7 for the FACC emergency fund. $253.00 was collected in August.

FOOD FOR FACC In September our food item to collect is: 250 cans of Mixed Vegetables If you are watching for sales, our item for October will be: 250 boxes of Mac ‘n Cheese

The 2014 Stephenson County CROP Hunger Walk will be held on Sunday, September 21. The CROP Hunger Walk is a national effort sponsored by Church World Service. Local churches and individuals walk to raise money to help end hunger. Twenty-five percent of the funds raised, stay local. The 2014 effort will raise funds with proceeds equally divided between FACC, Salvation Army, and Gospel Outreach.

The CROP Hunger Walk will kick off from the Lincoln-Douglas Debate Square. Registration will begin at 1:00 pm with the walk beginning at 1:30 pm. The Freeport Public Library has agreed to host refreshments after your walk.

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O N - G O I N G WAY S T O PA R T I C I PAT E I N THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH BS….

We meet at 9 am every Wednesday in the Chapel Hearth Room and are discussing the book “Between Heaven and Mirth” by James Martin. All are welcome!

CARD CLUB Join us for Euchre the first Monday of the month in the Chapel Hearth. Due to the Labor Day holiday, we will meet on the second Monday, September 8, at 1 pm.

PING PONG We meet every Tuesday at 9 am in Fellowship Hall.

We would love to have more men & women join in on the fun!

MEN’S GROUP We're having a great time! Come join us! We’re not “holier than thou,” nor is all the talk just “God-talk.” It’s a wonderful blend of maleness, conversation, laughter, the spiritual and the unspiritual. Our next gathering is Saturday, September 13, at 8 am. Come check us out!

RESOURCE GROUP Join us on Thursdays at 9 am for coffee, treats, friendship, and volunteer work! We will assemble the October Tidings on September 25.

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LGBTQ Ministry Group The LGBTQ support group will meet at 6:30 pm on Sunday, September 21. This is a group for teens and adults that are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, or those Questioning their sexual identity. This is also a safe group for allies, friends, and family of the LGBTQ community.

Childcare is provided.

HELIX Honor, Engage, Listen, Include, eXample MIDDLE SCHOOL Tuesdays (5th and 6th graders) 3-5 pm Thursdays (7th and 8th graders) 3-5 pm

SENIOR HIGH Sundays (9th thru 12th graders) 6-8 pm

C . A . T. s (Caregivers And Toddlers) Please join us for our play group geared for toddlers and the adults that care for them. We get together in St. John’s nursery Tuesday mornings 10 am—11 am. On the Third Tuesday of the month we will be in Fellowship Hall to run and ride. Bring your friends, all are welcome. Find us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ CATSPlayGroup?fref=ts

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COFFEE HOUR—Falls hours are back!

On Sunday mornings, before and after service, we gather for coffee and treats in the Narthex area and Fellowship Hall, to socialize. If you would like to find a place to sit and talk, there is plenty of room in the Chapel Hearth. Please, if your name is on the list (dates are assigned alphabetically by the directory) for this month, bring in a treat to share. Some ideas are... cookies, bars, mini muffins, bagels, etc. or please consider bringing fruit to share. If you do not wish to be on the list for treats, please contact the office and we will remove your name.

SEPTEMBER—STEWARDSHIP 9-7

Deb Scott, Sybil Scovill, David & Olivia Shaffer, Sharon Simler, Michael Simler, Mike Smith, Stan & Carol Smith. Terry Thomas

9-14 Seth & Katrina Spangler, Steve & Vicki Spyrison Jackie Stewart, James & Sharon Summers, Roger & Debra Swanlund, Karl & Betty Trester,Glenn & Marilyn Underwood 9-21 Don & Norma Valkema, Quentin & Joanne Valkema, LaVonne Wagenknecht,Jeff & Sally Wagner, Roger Watson, Patty Weik, Dan & Pam Wessel 9-28 Cathy Williams, Jean Wurtzel, Lynn Zimmerman, Carol Ahrens, Terry & Deleana Atz, Wayne Bahn, Alex & Nicole Bertram, Carole Bertram

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COFFEE HOUR OCTOBER—YAHOO’S 10-05 Gina Bertram, Greg & Anita Bicksler, Joyce Bloyer, Ken & Dolly Boland, Larry & Marsha Boll, Thompson Brandt, Stan & Sylvia Bomgarden, Patrick & Christine Busker

WORSHIP ATTENDANCE 7-27 130 8-3

137

8-10

97

8-17 130

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NURSERY– We no longer have a nursery attendant 9-7

Olivia Kreeger

9-14 Carla Meyer 9-21 Laurie Ditsworth 9-28 Jill & Logan Kuntz ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ SHUT-INS: The following is a list of people that can’t get out and may love a visit or a card from those thinking of them.

Oakley Courts: Deloris Burkhalter , John & Betty Heiden Parkview: Claire Biesemeier, Dorothy Miller, and Laura Uthlaut Hawthorne Inn, Liberty Village: Nettie Hendren Freeport Rehab: Esther Dickman Stephenson Nursing Center : June Nagel and Lois Walz Presence-St. Joseph: Katherene Benson, Dorothy Fox, Kathryn Cramer, & Dorothy Albrecht, Esther Dickman Kewanee Provena: Evelyn Dworak In their homes: Shirley Durrstein, Ardath Lei, Karen Salter, Vivian Pals, & Harold Reints PLEASE INCLUDE IN YOUR PRAYERS: 3-year old Mason, Kevin Davis, Lindsey Zavitz, Marvin Libke, Pam Curry, Pam Pfeiffer, Carol Ahrens, Cheryl Peck DEATHS: Maida Gimple, Jerry Simler HOSPITILIZED: Nettie Hendren, Zael Klapp, Rita Wittbecker 16

USHERS 9-7

Tim, Lisa, Colin, & Kristi Ebbers, Jim Drew, Dennis Manus

9-14 John & Paula Rawleigh, Phil & Barb Copus 9-21 Ray & Jeri Nieman, Tom & Melinda Ferguson, Wes & Joyce Robinson 9-28 Keith & Kathy Moffatt, Jeanne Koch

GREETERS 9-7

Clyde & Jeanne Cross

9-14 Royce & Janet Piefer 9-21 Zael & Donna Klapp 9-28 Ray & Jeri Nieman

WELCOMERS 9-7

Marilyn Ruthe & Diane Heilman

9-14 Carol Ahrens & Betty Carpenter 9-21 Bonnie Gennusa & Jill Kuntz 9-28 Monty & Carolee Dietmeier

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Dear Pastor Dutcher: Grace and peace to you from God, our Creator, and Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior! On behalf of the Illinois Conference and the wider United Church of Christ, I am writing to express our gratitude for your continued support of Our Church’s Wider Mission. Thank you for partnering with us in mission and ministry! Your contributions support our efforts to Transform Lives, Engage in Local Church Ministry, Do Justice and Peace, and Celebrate Youth and Adult Ministry, as we seek to fulfill our mission to “Promote Congregational Health and Vitality and to Pursue God’s Peace and Justice.” For every $1. that you have contributed, .735 remains in Illinois and .265 goes on to our denominational offices. With your support we have developed new churches, supported revitalization projects, engaged in ministry for youth and young adults, assisted churches with the search and call process, provided mediation and reconciliation services, developed resources, and preached the Good News. We want you to know that we sincerely appreciate your gifts and that we thank you! We are holding you and your ministry in our prayers! With gratitude for your faithfulness, I remain Your Sister-in-Christ, Rev. Dr. Melbalenia D. Evans, Associate Conference Minister, Stewardship and Church Vitality. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have been moved by all the love shown during my recent hospitalization and recovery. Thank you to all who sent cards, called, visited, did laundry, cleaned, got groceries, provided transportation, prayed, thought of me through social media, and the list goes on...you are all such a blessing. Thank you, thank you, thank you.... Carol Ahrens

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We would like to thank everyone for your prayers, cards, and phone calls. Special thanks to Donnley & Jeri Nieman for your visits and Shan & Vicki MacAdam for your prayers, rides to appointments, and the food. It is greatly appreciated. Thank you and God Bless. Betty & John Heiden ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you to Bill Kuntz, Larry Kuntz, Don & Vicki Franz, and Stan Smith for all the upkeep and cleaning that you do on a weekly basis. A special thanks for the newly waxed floors to start off the school year. Your efforts do not go unnoticed and each of you are greatly appreciated. St. John UCC Staff and Property Management

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ On behalf of the Fellowship Ministry, Kim Evans, would like to thank everyone who helped make the Ice Cream Social a huge success. Thanks to all who generously donated a pie or cake, sold tickets, served ice cream, food and drinks, and the clean up crew. It was so nice working in the new kitchen. A big thank you to the Resource Group for cutting and serving the pies and cakes. Thank you also to the wonderful fellowship committee members for their help in making the pasta salad, and to the cleanup crew for such a great job.

The final numbers are not in, but we anticipate between $700$800 was made for the general fund. Again a big thanks to everyone. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thank you to my friends at St. John that came to my 90th birthday party and for the many gifts, cards, and flowers. Also, to Donna Klapp, along with my family to make it a day to remember. Betty J. Mathews

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St. John UCC Council Minutes

7-14-14

Members Present: Tim Ebbers, President, Kirsten Eckert, Judy Garkey, Shelly Griswold, Deb Hartman, Shan MacAdam, Ulan Price, Joyce Robinson, Deb Scott, Patty Weik, Pastor Donnley, ex-officio. Guest Kathy Lawes, Associate Conference Minister (Prairie and Western Associations) was also in attendance.

Opening Prayer: Kathy Lawes Kathy Lawes—Interim Pastor Search Process: Kathy explained the difference in the search process between selection of an interim versus a called pastor. She also reviewed what to expect in terms of salary considerations. The rule of thumb is generally what is in place for the current pastor and that the years of experience a candidate has are valuable and should be considered in the negotiation process. When reviewing profiles it is also helpful to research the internet information on a candidate and it is now possible to Skype with them as an interview tool.

Kathy encourages bringing to the interim concerns about the transition that need to be addressed. They are here to help us prepare, to “take stock” for this new chapter at St. John.

Some of the issues we have concerns for are: Increase the numbers for “younger” members.

Dealing with the issues of Freeport—community stress relating to economy, unemployment Sunday morning worship time Restructuring of Ministries Not lose ground with our Open and Affirming stance Being mindful of our “blended” service style Maintaining the strength of Sunday School and Youth Ministry programs Encouraging the ecumenical tendencies in our worship style and activities Encouraging the forward-thinking in our planning and attitude Increasing the involvement and participation among the congregation Strengthen Missions/Community outreach programs Kathy recommended keeping in mind that each pastor has a balance of strengths. She will be very helpful to us in finding potential matches that will fit with our strengths and needs during this interim process. It is important for us to determine priorities for the interim period and in selecting a strong pastoral search committee.

Criteria for candidates on the pastoral search committee was discussed.

In terms of the pastoral search committee, she advised having “small group” meetings with members to determine concerns, priorities and being faithful, listening to the spirit. We want people who are committed to St. John at this time, representing the congregation as we are now.

They will need to measure the attitude of the congregation on key issues.

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Reviewed the purpose of distinguishing membership (Historical vs.

Regular) and the importance of the votes being a true reflection of active, faithful membership. The staff handbook will also be helpful to candidates in revealing our intention, attitude and spirit.

Kathy will be at the October Council meeting to review interim profiles and help us develop a process for interviewing.

Thank you to Kathy for her guidance and support in our preparing for this transition.

June Minutes: Previously approved via email.

Financial Reports: The Endowment Board gifted a check for $46,000 to St. John to “help in catching up” our loans from various resources to pay necessary expenses. These loans included: Borrowed from: Janshen Fund Mission Budget Reserve Fund Capital Fund Drive

$10,000 $ 2,000 $10,000 (borrowed in 2013) $ 6,000 (borrowed in 2013)

Check disbursement: Janshen Fund Mission Budget Reserve Fund Capital Fund Drive General Fund

$10,000 $ 2,000 $ 5,000 $ 6,000 $23,000

It is important to remember that giving is still an issue and even though missing a Sunday and the collection plate may seem innocent enough to you, the churches expenses (utilities, upkeep and necessary improvements) continue and, as with us all, continue to increase in amount. We also discussed the need to define the term “income” as it relates to growth in the Endowment Fund. Joyce made the motion to disburse the Endowment Board gift as listed above. Judy 2 nd. Discussion followed, motion carried. Shelly made the motion to approve the Financial Report as presented. Kirsten 2nd. Discussion followed, motion carried.

2015 Budget: Pastor Donnley reminded everyone to let their Ministries know that the budget figures for 2015 need to be turned in to Stewardship Ministry by September 5th.

Come One, Come All: Event will be September 14, 2014. Each Ministry will be responsible for a separate food item. Advertising was discussed, possibly having the banner over Locust/Stephenson intersection display our event.

Pastor’s Report: Pastor Donnley reported that there may be an opportunity to save some money when he goes on Medicare in October from the difference in Medicare vs. insurance premiums.

Adjournment: Adjourned with the Mizpah Benediction.

Next Meeting: August 11, 2014 Respectfully submitted, Deb Hartman, Council Secretary

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September Scripture Readings 01

Psalm 37

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1 Corinthians 4:1-21

02

Psalm 119:1-16

18

Matthew 5:1-20

03

Psalm 119:17-32

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Matthew 5:21-48

04

Psalm 119:33-48

20

Matthew 6:19-34

05

Psalm 119:49-64

21

Matthew 7:1-14

06

Psalm 119:65-80

22

Matthew 7:15-29

07

Psalm 119:81-96

23

Matthew 13:1-17

08

Psalm 119:97-112

24

Matthew 18-32

09

Psalm 119:113-128

25

Matthew 13:33-52

10

Psalm 119:129-144

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Proverbs 1:1-33

11

Psalm 119:145-160

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Proverbs 8:1-36

12

Psalm 119:161-176

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Proverbs 11:1-31

13

1 Corinthians 1:1-17

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Proverbs 12:1-28

14

1 Corinthians 1:18-31

30

Proverbs 16:1-33

15

1 Corinthians 2:1-16

31

16

1 Corinthians 3:1-23 22

FINANCIAL STATEMENT Beginning Balance January 1, 2014

$ 5,678.71

08/01 General Fund Beginning Balance

$ 12,885.34

08/05

GF Income

$ 5,934.38

08/11

GF Income

$ 4,619.55

08/18

GF Income

$ 5,787.54

Less 08/20

GF Payroll & Compensation

$ 11,225.26

08/20

GF Other Checks

$ 3,891.79

08/20

GF Current Bills Outstanding

08/20

Ending Balance

$14,109.76

________________________________________________ Building Fund Beginning Balance January 1, 2014

$ 3,676.70

08/01 Building Fund Beginning Balance

$ 3,377.11

08/05

BD Income

$ 500.00

08/11

BD Income

$ 287.00

08/18

BD Income

$ 474.00

Less 08/20

BD Checks

$1,090.58

08/20 Ending Balance

$ 3,547.53

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