MINUTES OF THE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

OF THE

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF CONGREGATIONAL CHRISTIAN CHURCHES

 

ACTIONS 02-C-34                               Spokane, Washington

Through 02-C-67                                    June 27 – July 2, 2002

 

Call to Order                A regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Congregational Christian Churches was called to order by the Chairman, Ms. Carol L. Cole, at 7:00pm, Thursday, June 27, 2002, in the Evergreen Room of the DoubleTree Hotel, in Spokane, Washington.  Prior to the meeting a dinner for the entire Leadership Team was held in Salon I and II of the hotel at 5:30pm.

 

                                    Members of the Board of Directors present Thursday Evening in addition to the Chairman, were:

 

                                    Arnold, Mr. Kenneth W.                           Simons, Mr. Blaine  

                                    Hopkins, Mr. James A.                             Gierke, the Reverend Dr. Dewey E.

                                    Clarke, the Reverend Joseph                    Hicks, Mr. Michael 

                                    Dando Haaheim, the Reverend Patricia    Murphy, the Reverend Alice 

                                    Ellcey, the Reverend Gregory A.              Kniefel, Ms. Claudia

                                    Backus, the Reverend Dr. Roy C.             Bailey, the Reverend Steven H. Ware

 

                                    Absent:  Carter, Mrs. Susan

 

                                    Present at all Sessions: Heilmann, Miss Lois A., Secretary

 

                                    Also present were: the Reverend Dr. Thomas M. Richard, Executive Secretary; the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr., Historian; Mrs. Ellen H. Eckert, Nominee for the Board of Directors; the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood, Nominee for the Board of Directors; and Mrs. Sherry Glab, Nominee for the position of Association/Corporation Secretary.

 

Welcome                      The Chairman, Ms. Cole, extended a warm welcome to the nominees, Mrs. Eckert, Dr. Jones-Hood, and Mrs. Glab, and on behalf of the Corporate Board, stated with what joy the committee anticipated their election to their respective offices. 

 

Evening Devotion          Mr. Michael Hicks, invited to offer the Evening Devotions, used the theme of Patience and Perseverance for his presentation.  Mr. Hicks advocated patience to understand others and perseverance to never give up when goals seem unobtainable.  Patience is necessary in our work for the Association  and perseverance is necessary for us to stay on course.  Mr. Hicks noted individuals who had not given up when their goals seemed to be out of reach:

                                    Abraham Lincoln, was not elected the first time he ran for president; authors Carl Sandberg and Louisa Mae Alcott had their first manuscripts rejected but they all persevered.  Quoting scripture from I Corinthians 13, “Love is patient,…”, Mr. Hicks closed his Devotion with a Prayer asking God to grant us the patience to seek answers to our challenges and perseverance to see our tasks fulfilled.

 

Thanks to Mr. Hicks     Ms. Cole thanked Mr. Hicks for his Devotion and agreed that we are all in need of patience and perseverance in our work.

02-C-34                      VOTED:  To approve the Meeting Agenda with the noted changes. (Exhibit 1)

Approve Agenda                          

02-E-35                       VOTED:  To ratify the Mail Ballot concerning the January 31-February 2,

Ratify Mail Ballot                           2002 Corporation minutes.

 

02-C-36                       VOTED:  (By Mail Ballot) To approve the minutes of the January 31- 

Approve Minutes                February 2, 2002 Corporation meeting.  (Exhibit 2)

 

02-C-37                      VOTED:  To ratify the Mail Ballot concerning the Bylaws Change with

Ratify Mail Ballot                           regard to ballots sent by either electronic mail or postal mail.

                                        

02-C-38                      VOTED:  (By Mail Ballot)  To approve the Bylaws Change with regard

Approve Bylaws Change             to ballots sent by either electronic mail or postal mail.  (Exhibit 3)

   

02-C-39                      VOTED:  To ratify the Mail Ballot concerning a Revised Proposed Budget

Ratify Mail Ballot                           for the 2002-2003 fiscal year.

 

02-C-40                      VOTED:  (By Mail Ballot)  To approve the Revised Proposed Budget

Approve Revised                           for the 2002-2003 fiscal year.  (Exhibit 4)

Proposed Budget

02-C-41                      VOTED:  To ratify the Mail Ballot concerning a change in the NACCC’s

Ratify Mail Ballot                           banking relationship from Meridian Capital Bank (to be Wells

                                                     Fargo Bank) to Johnson Bank.

 

02-C-42                      VOTED:  (By Mail Ballot)  To approve a change in the NACCC’s banking

Approve Bank Change      relationship from Meridian Capital Bank (to be Wells Fargo

                                                     Bank) to Johnson Bank.  (Exhibit 5)

 

Staff Reports                The Chairman called to the attention of the Board, the reports from the Staff, the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard, the Reverend Mr. Phil Jackson, the Reverend Dr. Donald Olsen, and Mrs. Marina Rosenberg, which had been made available to all Corporate members prior to this meeting, and asked if there were any questions or comments at this time.

 

02-C-43                      VOTED:  To accept with appreciation the written staff reports.

Accept Staff Reports                     (Exhibits 6,7,8,9)  

                                   


                                    The Chairman, Ms. Cole, called upon the Moderator, Ms. Claudia Kniefel for her report.

 

Moderator’s Report     Ms. Kniefel stated that everything was in good order for this year’s Annual Meeting.  She commended Mrs. Carrie Dahm, our Meeting Coordinator, for her excellent assistance and said that the Program and Host Committees had done a great job.   The meeting speakers were all confirmed and ready and the hotel has proven to be an excellent site for the meeting.

 

Thanks to Moderator    On behalf of the Executive Committee, the Chairman offered sincere thanks to Ms. Kniefel for all her efforts to make this an outstanding Annual Meeting.

 

                                    Ms. Cole next called upon the Moderator-Elect, the Reverend Steven H. Ware Bailey, for his report.

 

Moderator’s-Elect        The Reverend Mr. Bailey stated that his Program Committee had visited the

Report                          site for the 2003 meeting and was very favorably impressed with the facility, the Hilton Milwaukee City Center.  The Theme, taken from Psalm 90, and the hymn, Our God Our Help in Ages Past, will be, “For Years To Come.”  The speakers are all confirmed and serving on the Program Committee are: the Reverend Mr. Bailey, the Reverend Mr. John Lancz, the Reverend Dr. Roy Backus, the Reverend Dr. Donald Bentley, Mrs. Marjorie Walbridge, Miss Lois Heilmann.   The Moderator-elect expects that the 2003 Annual Meeting will be excellent.

Congregational             Mr. James Hopkins was asked for his report on the Congregational

Foundation Report        Foundation.  He reviewed a printed brochure which was distributed to all present as well as a question and answer sheet.  The brochure also included a pledge card; no pledge card was to be included in the packets to the delegates.  A discussion followed concerning the presentation to be made to the delegates at the Annual Meeting.  The delegates are to be informed that this is a proposal which is open to suggestions and/or changes.  (Exhibit  10)

 

Recess                         The Chairman called for a break with the discussion on the Congregational Foundation to continue when the meeting resumed in twenty minutes.

 

Call to Order                The meeting was called to order by Ms. Cole with thirteen Corporate members present.  Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were: the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard, the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr., Mr. James Walsh, Treasurer, Mrs. Marina Rosenberg, Controller, Mrs. Ellen Eckert, the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood, Mrs. Sherry Glab.

 

Discussion (Cont’d.)     Discussion on the Congregational Foundation continued with suggestions made that the word  “Draft” be stamped on the brochure before it is given to the delegates and that the last two items be eliminated from the proposal. 

 

02-C-44                      VOTED:   1.  That the Congregational Foundation proposal is adopted as

Adopt Proposal for                        described in the Brochure, Question and Answers Sheet, and

Congregational Foundation          Annual Meeting Presentation.  2.  That the Executive Committee

                                                      is directed to appoint an Ad-Hoc Congregational Foundation

Proposal (Cont’d.)                        Implementation Committee to perform the next implementation 

                  actions, providing to the Association, at its 2003 Annual Meeting,

                  a report of progress and action taken.  3.  That the Association

                  provide $15,000 to fund legal and financial assistance, travel, and

                  general support of implementation efforts.

 

Corporation                  The Corporate Board offered 100% support of the Congregational

Support                        Foundation proposal.

 

Thanks to Ad Hoc        The Corporate Board offered a unanimous vote of thanks to Mr.

Committee                    Hopkins and his Committee for their excellent work on this matter.

 

The Chairman brought up the matter of electing a Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee to serve in 2002-2003.

 

02-C-45                      VOTED:  To elect Mrs. Sue Carter Vice Chairman of the Board of

Elect Vice Chairman                      Directors to serve in 2002-2003.

 

Ms. Cole said that Miss Lois Heilmann had requested a few minutes to speak to the group.  The outgoing Secretary expressed her appreciation to the Board for their support and assistance and stated that each member of the Board had very special and unique gifts which collectively enabled the work of the Corporation to meet all challenges.  She offered thanks to each individual member with a personal note and closed her remarks with a prayer thanking God for the presence of every person at the table and the blessings and special gifts they bring to the Association.

                                               

Recess                         Ms. Cole declared the meeting in recess until Friday morning and asked the group to stand, join hands and repeat the Mizpah Benediction.

 

                                    The meeting recessed at 9:05pm.

 

Friday Morning, June 28, 2002

 

Call to Order                The Chairman, Ms. Carol Cole, called the meeting to order at 8:30am with thirteen members of the Board of Directors in attendance.  Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also in attendance were:  the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard;  the Reverend Dr. Donald Olsen; the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr.; Mr. James Walsh; Mrs. Marina Rosenberg; Mrs. Ellen Eckert; the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood; Mrs. Sherry Glab.

 

Morning Devotion         The Reverend Alice Murphy was asked to offer the Morning Devotion which she began by reading Scripture in Russian, a language she could read and write.  She told of a trip to Russia and how happy she was that she was able to communicate and read the written word.  Jesus communicated with others and if we listen and respond then we can establish good communication.  We are then able to appreciate other viewpoints and adjust to the words of others.  Recalling the story of the circus elephant, “Bozo” she noted how

Devotion (Cont’d.)       miscommunication almost caused the death of the elephant and how easily we too can cause disaster by not being able to understand or appreciate the words of others.  Closing with a prayer, the Reverend Alice Murphy asked that we be granted love, kindness and patience to respond to others to create meaningful bonds.

 

                                    Joining the gathering during the Devotion were: Mr. Ed Millar, Church Services Commission; Mrs. Kay Lenz, Church Services Commission; the Reverend Kevin Roach, Missionary Society; Mrs. Carrie Dahm, Meeting Coordinator.

 

Getting to Know You   The Chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked each person to give his or her name, church membership and participation in the National Association, and something about themselves.  

 

  Internet Discussion      The Reverend Dr. Donald Olsen was present to answer any questions about the NA on the internet.  Giving helpful information as to how to resolve problems some individuals were having, Dr. Olsen offered to make himself available for private tutoring if needed.

 

                                    During Dr. Olsen’s presentation Mr. Bill Barnes and Mr. Tom Lootens of the Financial Services Committee entered the meeting.

 

                                    Dr. Olsen was thanked for his dedication in keeping our NA internet up to date and for his generosity in helping to solve problems.

 

Future Meetings            Mrs. Carrie Dahm reported that registration for this Annual Meeting was down.  She said that plans for the 2003 meeting in Milwaukee were proceeding well and that she had just received confirmation for the 2004 meeting in Providence, Rhode Island.

 

                                    Members of the Division for Ministry entered the meeting: the Reverend Dr. Jay Terbush; the Reverend William Rafuse; Mrs. Helen Gierke; Dr. Donald Bentley; the Reverend Glenn Lawson; the Reverend Dr. Michael Chittum; the Reverend William Genda; Mrs. Karen Frazzell; and Ms. Cathy Rush, nominee for the division.  The Division for Ministry presented a written Proposal for Program Committees for Annual Meetings offering to sponsor a Plenary Session featuring an expert in interim ministry, and also, one or two seminars featuring the Plenary Session speaker and trained interim ministers, from our fellowship, to present a program on Interim Ministry.  The Division for ministry would be responsible for all expenses for these sessions.

                                    (Exhibit 11)

 

                                    The Division for Ministry was sincerely thanked for this generous offer and they left the meeting.

 

Controller’s Report       Mrs. Marina Rosenberg, Controller, presented her report outlining a health insurance plan which our clergy and employees of NA member churches may

                                    join through the Ministers’ and Missionaries’ Board of the American Baptist Church.   This would include a health insurance plan, comprehensive long-term disability, life insurance and annuity plan.  The IRS allows the Ministers’ and Missionaries’ Board of the American Baptist Church to market their services to other denomination groups holding similar beliefs and practices.  Our legal advisers have approved our participation in this plan.  (Exhibit 12)

   

02-C-46                      VOTED:  That the Board of Directors empower our Executive Secretary,

Agreement for Partici-                 Reverend Dr. Thomas M. Richard, to sign a letter of agreement

pation in Benefits Plan        required for full participation in the benefits program of the

                                                     Ministers’ and Missionaries’ Benefit Board (MMBB), with our

                                                     appreciation to all involved in bringing this vital service to

                                                     completion.

 

Thanks to Mrs.             Sincere thanks were expressed to Mrs. Rosenberg for her dedication in

Rosenberg                    bringing this vital plan to our churches and also to her young son for his help in preparing her presentation.

 

Break                           The Chairman called for a twenty minute break.

 

                                    The meeting resumed at 10:30am with thirteen Board of Directors present; Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were: the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard; the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr.; the Reverend Steven H. Ware Bailey; Mr. Joseph B. Polhemus; Mrs. Ellen Eckert; the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood; Mrs. Sherry Glab; the Reverend Kevin Roach.

 

Executive Secretary’s   The Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard was invited to give his report.  He

Report                          suggested that we not concentrate on our small size but should let our light shine.  He commented on suggestions for a Marketing Plan for our NA; setting goals for new church members; comments on the Congregational Foundation; and his plans to share the good news of our churches.  He expressed his hope to add ten to twelve new members to the Leadership Team as we have a large talent pool available from our churches.  Dr. Richard also said that we must work more closely with our churches that have called clergy from outside the NA.  The Executive Secretary listed five concerns in his report: 1.  That we pay attention to those Churches that have not participated in any way as member Churches;  2.  A plan to give birth to new Churches; 3.  Identify specific ways in which we can partner with state associations;  4.  A willingness to think creatively and intentionally about everything we do; and 5.  Raising funds for new initiatives of which our committees, divisions and commission dream.

 

                                    It was suggested that the Reverend John Lancz, who was to chair the Association luncheon at the Annual Meeting, be invited to come to the October meeting to report on any comments or suggestions made at this luncheon.

 

Marketing Plan             Discussion took place concerning the report by Dr. Richard concerning his Marketing Plan.   (Exhibit 13)

 

Motion                         To have Todd Robert Murphy come to the October meeting to further discuss his proposal and to appropriate up to $12,000 this year to cover the Marketing Plan.

 

02-C-47                      VOTED:  To table the Motion.

Table Motion

 

02-C-48                      VOTED:  That the Board of Directors appoint an ad hoc committee to

Ad Hoc Committee                       identify who we are and what we want to sell.

 

Appoint ad hoc             The Chairman, Ms. Cole, appointed the following members to the ad hoc

Committee                    committee to identify who we are and what we want to sell:  the Reverend Dr. Dewey Gierke, the Reverend Patti Dando Haaheim, the Reverend Steven H. Ware Bailey.

 

02-C-49                      VOTED:  To receive and accept the report of the Auditors, Reilly,

Receive Auditors Report             Penner & Benton, LLP.   (Exhibit 14)

 

Treasurer’s Report       Mr. James Walsh next offered his Treasurer’s Report showing our Net Income as ($124,057).  The return on our investments for 2002 as of March 3l, 2002 was 2.7%.  (Exhibit 15)

 

Thanks to Treasurer      Sincere thanks were extended to Mr. James Walsh, our Treasurer, and Mrs.

And Controller             Marina Rosenberg, our Controller, for their concentrated efforts to present a balanced budget.  The Board of Directors offered applause to recognize such efforts.

 

Lunch Recess               The Board of Directors recessed for lunch at 11:55am.

 

Friday Afternoon, June 28, 2002

 

Call to Order                The meeting resumed at 1:07pm with thirteen Corporate members in attendance; Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were:  Mr. James Walsh; the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr.; Mr. Joseph B. Polhemus; the Reverend Dr. Steven Peay, Congregational Heritage ad hoc committee; Mrs. Ellen Eckert; the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood; Mrs. Sherry Glab; the Reverend Kevin Roach.

 

Historian’s Report        The Chairman asked the Historian, the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr. to present his report.   (Exhibit 16)

 

Thanks to Historian       The Reverend Dr. Hall was offered sincere thanks for his dedication to his responsibilities as our Historian.

 

Editor’s Report             Mr. Joseph B. Polhemus, the Editor of THE CONGREGATIONALIST offered his report.  Two years ago the Communication Services Committee began to aggressively solicit revenue and it was a success.  Individual giving increased, church giving increased and the greatest support group, the Editor’s Roundtable, gave 45% of the total revenue.    Now support from individuals and churches has gone up but we still need to increase circulation.  Mr. Polhemus thanked everyone for their support and said that his service as Editor is a labor of love and that he has edited some 70 issues over the past 13 years.  He gave thanks for the privilege of serving as our Editor.    (Exhibit 17)

 

Thank You to               The Board of Directors extended appreciation to Mr. Polhemus for his

Our Editor                    continued excellent service as Editor of THE CONGREGATIONALIST.

 

Report of Ad Hoc        The Reverend Dr. Steven Peay was called upon for the report of the

Committee – Institute    Institute for Congregational Heritage ad hoc committee.  A memo prepared by

For Congregational       the Reverend Dr. Dewey Gierke was included in the meeting packet in which

Heritage                       it was suggested that there is a need to nurture leadership as part of an integrated education program which the Congregational Institute could provide.  It was also noted that the Institute would address the need for specific program materials and their use by local churches.  Dr. Peay stated that the committee feels the Institute would be a clearing house or think tank to provide needed programs.  He also said that they will need space on the web site and that they are making progress in their work.  (Exhibit 18)

 

02-C-50                      VOTED:  That the Ad Hoc Committee on the Institute for Congregational

Ad Hoc Committee                       Heritage be continued for the period of one year and that space be

To continue for One Year            provided for them on the NA web site.

 

Ad Hoc Committee      The ad hoc committee on the Institute for Congregational Heritage to include:

Members                      the Reverend Dr. Steven Peay, the Reverend Mr. Steven H. Ware Bailey, the Reverend Dr. Lloyd Hall, the Reverend Dr. Dewey Gierke and Mr. Michael Fales.

 

Piedmont College         The Reverend Dr. Lloyd Hall reported that the Trustees of Piedmont College

Report                          endorsed a relationship with the United Church of Christ and that the college intends to continue our relationship.  The college has also guaranteed that we will continue to hold two seats on their Board of Trustees.

 

Strategic Plan               The Reverend Dr. Roy Backus reported that work on the Strategic Plan is continuing and making progress.

 

02-C-51                      VOTED:  That there be a Future Planning Ad Hoc Committee to be

Appoint Future Planning             appointed for the period of one year.  Members of the Committee:

Committee                                   Robert Carlson, Chairman,William Ahrens, Kenneth Arnold, Roy

                 Backus, Carol DiBiaso-Snyder, Liane Jensen, Elizabeth Mauro and

                 Thomas Richard.

  

Fraternal Delegates       The Executive Secretary, the Reverend Thomas Richard, gave his report

Committee                    concerning the Fraternal Delegates Committee.  In a memo sent to Members prior to the meeting, Dr. Richard stated that members of this committee would attend interfaith or ecumenical events when members of our Staff were unable to attend.  (Exhibit 19)

 

02-C-52                      VOTED:  To appoint a Fraternal Delegates Committee for one year.  The

Appoint Fraternal Delegates        members of the Committee to be: Ashley Cook, Lottie Jones Hood,

Committee                                     John Lancz, Steven Balckburn, William Ahrens, John Alvord,

                                                     Arthur Voisin, Robert Salmons.

 

Additional Churches     The Reverend Patricia Dando Haaheim was called upon to list additional

For Membership           churches applying for membership in the National Association since our last meeting.  The Reverend Mrs. Haaheim offered the following churches:

 

                                                The First Congregational Church of East Baldwin

                                                The Reverend Gregory Young

                                                26 School Street

                                                East Baldwin, Maine  04024

 

                                                Longmeadow Congregational Church

                                                The Reverend H. Victor Allison

                                                417 Longmeadow Street

                                                Longmeadow, Massachusetts  01106

 

02-C-53                      VOTED:  To recommend to the delegates that the above two churches, from

Recommend Churches                 whom documentation has been received, be accepted into the

For Membership                            membership of the National Association of Congregational

                                                     Christian Churches.

 

                                    The Reverend Mrs. Haaheim also called to the attention of the Board of Directors the fact that the Riverview Community Parish, the Reverend Dr. Jesse James, of South Gardiner, Maine, which had been previously considered for membership, has had their application placed on hold for further review and will not be recommended at this time.

 

Church Withdrawals     Reporting on church withdrawals from the National Association, Mrs. Haaheim stated that the following churches have elected to withdraw:

 

                                                First Congregational Church

                                                600 Henry Street

                                                Alton, Illinois  62002

 

                                                Mayflower Congregational Church

                                                2500 West Brown Deer Road

                                                River Hills, Wisconsin  53217

 

 

Withdrawals (Cont’d.)  Westford Congregational Church

                                                368 Westford Hill Road

                                                Ashford, Connecticut  06278

 

                                                Pullman Congregational Church

5156    124th Street

Fennville, Michigan  94908

 

First Congregational Church

764 North Linden Street

Wahoo, Nebraska  68066

 

Atkinson Memorial Church

710 Sixth Street

Oregon City, Oregon  97045

 

Atlantic Congregational Church

P. O. Box 7

Atlantic, Pennsylvania  16111

                 

                                    The Chairman called for a twenty minutes break.

 

                                    The meeting resumed with thirteen Board members in attendance; Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were: the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard,   Mr. James Walsh, the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr.,  Mrs. Ellen Eckert, the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood, Mrs. Sherry Glab.

 

Proposal – Reducing     The Board of Directors reviewed a Proposal for Reducing Annual
Annual Meeting            Expenses as prepared by the Executive Secretary, the Reverend Dr. Thomas

Expenses                      Richard.  The Committee endorsed his proposal which included:  1.  That 

a   budget such as the one enclosed be set-up to help program committees and host committee’s work.  2.  That the number of program committee members be reduced to six or seven including: Host chair(s); the moderator-elect (for the incoming year); two members at large, chosen by the moderator-elect; three ex-officio members – the Meeting Coordinator, and a Staff Executive, a youth committee representative (on years that the youth and adults meet together); program committee meet once after the Annual Meeting preceding the meeting for which they are responsible, if necessary, preferably during the October or February leadership meetings.  3.  Program committee planning by conference call, e-mail or on-line worksite.  Site visit by Moderator, youth representative

                                    (on years we meet with youth), and meeting coordinator only.  4.  Limit expenditures for speakers, etc. according to the proposed budget attached.

 

                                    The matter of automobiles for the Executive Staff was referred to the Personnel and Administration sub-committee of the Executive Committee, for their recommendation, after they have met with the Staff.

   

The meeting recessed at 3:55pm.

Friday Evening, June 28, 2000

 

Ms. Carol Cole welcomed everyone to the Plenary Session and called the session to order at 7:00pm.  Thirteen Board members were present along with the Secretary; Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  The Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard, and representatives of the divisions, committees and the commission filled the room.

 

Congregational             Speaking for the Congregational Church Development Division was its

Church Development    Chairman, the Reverend E. Neil Hunt, who stated that this division has four

Division                        ongoing projects at the present time, as well as three new projects.  The new projects include one church working on revitalization.  CCD also works with the Reverend Patti Dando Haaheim to bring her retreat seminar to churches interested in revitalization.

 

Congregational             Beginning the report for the Congregational Foundation for Theological

Foundation for              Studies was its Dean, the Reverend Phil Jackson, who stated that this year

Theological Studies       there are four graduates from CFTS and three are attending this meeting.  CFTS has accepted seven new students.  The Reverend Dr. Steven Peay, Chairman of CFTS, continued their presentation stating that at the Boston Seminar this year were five students and nine members of the clergy.  The London Seminar will be held next summer and three students will be eligible to attend.  There is a vital need for clergy within our Association and CFTS is always seeking new students.

 

Division for                   Reporting for the Division for Ministry was its Chairman, the Reverend Dr.

Ministry                        Jay Terbush, who said that this division has had many discussions concerning churches in crisis – there are both church and clergy problems and to promote ways of dealing with intra-conflict, the Division for Ministry is developing a list of resources for use by clergy and/or churches.  It is their hope to sponsor a Seminar at an Annual Meeting and  a Plenary Session to offer help to clergy or churches in these difficult times of conflict.  Dr. Terbush also stated that we are in need of twelve new clergy per year to fill church openings.

                                   

Missionary Society       Mrs. Joelle Sommers, Chairman of the Missionary Society, gave her presentation next.   This group happily noted that they have kept their expenses

                                    under budget, and very happily, their donations have been over budget.

                                    Gifts to the 9/11 appeal were exceptional with New York and                          

                                    New Jersey churches handling the distribution of funds.   There are four Missionaries attending this meeting with the Stricters, father and son, from Argentina, speaking at this year’s Missionary Breakfast.  Also in attendance are the Santanas from Florida, the Gossetts from Arizona and Juana Santos from the Pan American Institute.

 

Health Insurance           The Reverend Dr. Jay Terbush returned to the podium to announce with deep

Program Fees               gratitude that the Reverend Dr. Harry R. Butman had eagerly agreed to the use of funds from the Harry R. Butman Fund, in the amount of $12,000, to cover fees for the new Health Insurance Program being offered to our clergy and churches under the Ministers’ and Missionaries’ Benefit Board of the American Baptist Church (MMBB).  The announcement was met with generous applause.

 

Executive                      The Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard came to the podium to introduce the office

Secretary’s Report       staff: the Reverend Phil Jackson and Mrs. Karen Frazzell, the Reverend Dr. Donald Olsen and Mrs. Ruth Mahnke,  Mrs. Marina Rosenberg and Ms.

                                    Danielle Rickert, Ms. Sue Grey, and Mrs. Carrie Dahm, Assistant to Dr.

                                    Richard and Meeting Coordinator.  The audience responded to his introductions with eager applause in gratitude for the excellent work of our office staff.

 

Congregational             Mr. James Hopkins came forward to give a brief outline of the Congregational

Foundation                   Foundation which will be presented to the delegates at the Annual Meeting.  He noted that there are pledge cards available if anyone would care to make an early donation.  This idea has the 100% support of the Executive Committee/Board of Directors  and Mr. Hopkins said that he is available to answer any questions about this program.                         

 

Moderator’s Report     Ms. Claudia Kniefel, Moderator, reported that all is ready for this year’s Annual Meeting and that she is looking forward to a joyful and inspiring time for all.   She reminded everyone of the First Timers’ Reception on Saturday at 2:00pm and also requested persons presenting awards at the meeting to be seated in the front row at the scheduled time.

 

The Chairman, Ms. Carol Cole, thanked all presenters and congratulated all groups for their excellent work. 

 

Mizpah Benediction      Ms. Carol Cole thanked everyone for their input and asked the entire group to form a large circle and recite the Mizpah together.  The Plenary Session was adjourned.

 

Friday Evening, June 28, 2002

 

Call to Order                At 8:15pm, the Board of Directors resumed meeting in the Evergreen Room with thirteen members present; Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were: the Reverend Dr. Thomas Richard,  Mr. James Walsh, Mrs. Marina Rosenberg, the Reverend Dr. Lloyd M. Hall, Jr.,  Mr. Joseph B. Polhemus, Mrs. Ellen Eckert, the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood, Mrs. Sherry Glab, Mr. Theodore Flynn and Mrs. Pam Smith of the Communication Services Committee, the Reverend Kevin Roach.

 

Communication             Mr. Theodore Flynn requested approval of the Board of Directors for the

Services Committee      existence of a reserve account in the amount of $25,000 to cover Congregational Press publications.   When submissions are received and determined worthy of publication, the Executive Committee/Board of Directors  would find a way to support it in three to six months.

 

                                    The Controller, Mrs. Marina Rosenberg, suggested this could be put on top of our wish list and when the next unrestricted gift is received we might take some money from that.

 

                                    The Chairman, Ms. Cole, said that the Communication Services Committee could seek material worthy of publishing under the Congregational Press and then the Board would take it under consideration.

 

Marketing Action          The Executive Secretary brought up the subject of the Marketing Proposal which had been placed on the table.

 

02-C-54                      VOTED:  To take the motion from the table.

Take Motion from Table

 

02-C-55                      VOTED:  To have Todd Robert Murphy come to the October meeting

Todd Robert Murphy                   to further discuss his proposal and to appropriate up to $12,000 this

To Come to October Meeting      year to cover the Marketing Plan.

                                                      (Seven approved; five opposed)

 

Guideline for                 The Guideline for Program Committee for Annual Meetings including a

Program Committee      Budget outline was reviewed.  

 

Recess                         The meeting was recessed at 9:15pm until Tuesday afternoon following the conclusion of the Annual Meeting.

 

Monday Afternoon, July 1, 2002

 

Open Leadership          The afternoon was devoted to an Open Leadership Forum.

Forum

        Tuesday Afternoon, July 2, 2002

 

Call to Order                Ms. Carol Cole called the Board meeting to order at 4:00pm in the Evergreen

Room with thirteen members of the Board of Directors in attendance;  Mrs. Sue Carter was absent.  Also present were; the Reverend Dr. Thomas M. Richard;  Mrs. Ellen Eckert; the Reverend Dr. Lottie Jones Hood; the Reverend John F. Miller;  the Reverend E. Neil Hunt;  Ms. Beverly Vink Douthett;  the Reverend Arthur P. Ritter;  the Reverend Thomas Miller;  Mrs. Chris Fleischmann; Mrs. Sherry Glab.

 

2004 Program              The Chairman announced that the Program Committee as selected by the new

Committee                    Moderator-Elect, the Reverend Dr. Donald Bentley, is approved as named: 

                                                The Reverend Dr. Donald Bentley

                                                The Reverend William Rafuse

                                                The Reverend Arthur Ritter

                                                Mr. James Hopkins

                                                Miss Lois A. Heilmann

 

October Meeting          The date and location of the October Board of Directors Meeting was discussed.  The dates presented by the new Board of Directors Chairman, the Reverend Dr. Roy Backus, were Thursday, October 10 through Saturday, October 12, 2002.  Dr. Thomas Richard suggested that he would like the entire Leadership Team to attend church together on Sunday morning, October 13th.   The Reverend Patricia Dando Haaheim suggested that if that is to be the plan,  the meeting begin on Friday, October 11th through Sunday, October 13th.  Dr. Richard also suggested the meeting might be held at a local church, not in Milwaukee but perhaps, in Detroit.  After some discussion the following action was agreed upon:

 

02-C-56                      VOTED:  That the Board of Directors meet in Detroit in October if

October Board of                          arrangements can be made, if not, the meeting will be in Milwaukee.

Directors Meeting

 

02-C-57                      VOTED:  To elect the twelve members of the Executive Committee to the

Elect Board of Directors              Board of Directors of the Corporation.

 

02-C-58                      VOTED:  To elect the Moderator, the Reverend Steven H. Ware Bailey, and

Elect Moderator and                      the Moderator-Elect, the Reverend Dr. Donald Bentley, to the Board

Moderator-Elect                            of Directors of the Corporation.

 

02-C-59                      VOTED:  To elect the Secretary, Mrs. Sherry Glab, as Secretary of the Board

Elect Secretary                 of Directors of the Corporation.

 

02-C-60                      VOTED:  To elect the Treasurer, Mr. James H. Walsh, as Treasurer of the

Elect Treasurer                  Board of Directors of the Corporation.

 

02-C-61                      VOTED:  To elect the following Corporate Directors to the Divisions for

Elect Corporate                             one year fulfilling requirements of the Corporate Bylaws that a

Directors to Divisions                     member of the Board of Directors be a member of that Division:

                                                            Congregational Church Development Division:

                                                              The Reverend Joseph Clarke

                                                            Congregational Foundation for Theological Studies:

                                                               The Reverend Dr. Roy C. Backus

                                                            Division for Ministry:

                                                               The Reverend Alice Murphy

                                                            Missionary Society:      

                                                               The Reverend Patricia Dando Haaheim         

              

02-C-62                      VOTED:  To acknowledge the Chairman of the Investment Advisory

Acknowledge  Chairman of        Committee as Mr. Robert Brunner.

The Investment Advisory Committee

 

02-C-63                      VOTED:  To confirm the appointment of members of the Investment

Confirm Investment                        Advisory Committee.  (Exhibit 20)

Advisory Committee Members

 

02-C-64                      VOTED:  To acknowledge the Chairmen of the Divisions:

Acknowledge Division              Congregational Church Development Division:
Chairmen                                                 The Reverend E. Neil Hunt

                                                             Congregational Foundation for Theological Studies:

                                                                Ms. Beverly Vink Douthett

                                                              Division for Ministry:

                                                                 The Reverend Arthur P. Ritter

                                                              Missionary Society:

                                                                  The Reverend Thomas Miller

 

02-C-65                      VOTED:  To reappoint the Congregational Foundation Implementation

Reappoint ad hoc                          ad hoc Committee.  Those serving on this committee are:

Committee for the                          Mr. James Hopkins, Chairman; the Reverend Alice Murphy;

Congregational Foundation         Mr. Blaine Simons; Mr. Arthur Wallach; Mr. Grant Stannard;

Implementation                            the Reverend Robert Carlson.  The Reverend Dr. Thomas M. 

                                                     Richard will be the staff representative.

 

02-C-66                      VOTED:  By unanimous vote, to express sincere appreciation and

Appreciation to                  commendation to the Secretary, Miss Lois A. Heilmann, for

Secretary                                       ten years of excellent service as Association/Corporation

                                                     Secretary.

                                               

02-C-67                      VOTED:  By unanimous vote, to express the appreciation and

Appreciation to Retiring             deep gratitude of the Executive Committee to Ms. Carol Cole

Executive Committee