Session Matters
This is a regular monthly report to the congregation on significant highlights from the Session meetings. I will attempt to glean those significant aspects that I feel may be of interest to the congregation and thus give you a “window” into the thoughts and actions of the elders.
The Session typically does not meet in December and thus the November agendas are often very busy. This month was no exception.
The Session had two “Priority Matters” to discuss: (1) Rev. Howland reported (and the elders discussed) the results from the survey of parents of the Children’s Bible School which indicated that most parents would prefer the time of the services and Bible School to remain the same; and (2) the elders discussed the Grace Investigation report and considered next steps. A commission was appointed to review the document. Also, a committee was assigned to review Grace’s recommendations for future benefit. Stay tuned for further word on next steps.
The Personnel Committee is collecting results from the pastoral staff annual reviews. They continue to review pastoral staff job descriptions to ensure they are up to date.
In January the Building Committee will finalize the Courtyard Project lighting plans and review connecting the carriage house with Reception Hall. Also, the Building Committee is looking into the feasibility of using a small lift to install the lighting in the sanctuary due to concerns about the narthex supporting its weight. One more engineer will be consulted. The Security Committee discussed bollards to protect the sidewalk area in front of the church.
Continue to pray for the Search Committee for an Executive Pastor (Frank Harder chairs this committee).
Pray that all our financial commitments will be met this year.
Please continue to pray for elders ministering in pastoral care situations as well as the elders serving on committees of the Session. Pray for the elders in all their deliberations and decision making.
“The Word became flesh and lived for a while among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14 (NIV)
Have a blessed and merry Christmas,
Sincerely for the Session,
George K. McFarland
Clerk of Session