Parish Council Minutes

July 26, 2005

The moderator began the meeting at 7:05 P.M. Present were Bruce Gist, Barbara Langill, Debbie Cotting, Dwight Decker, Phil Johnson, Sue Lambe, Mike Dunfee, George Hayden, Hugh Penney and Chris Gehret. Randy Russell was present as our guest speaker. Phil Johnson offered the meditation.

Phil recapped our efforts as a church this year to move forward with our goals and our permanent pastoral search. Randy is a professional strategy consultant, and he kindly volunteered to help with our church’s strategy. His presentation was entitled "Strategy Maps," and was an in-depth overview of how to strategize an organization’s mission or vision, goals for change and outcomes of the process. After the presentation, it was decided that all council members will prepare 3-5 key phrases that deserve consideration for inclusion in the CCC mission statement. Responses are due via e-mail to Phil on 8/12.

Pastor’s Report: Mike is working on fall scheduling including planning an Open and Affirming conversation for and an Adult Education program featuring a hospice chairperson.

Christian Ed. Report: Barbara reported on the very successful (18 attendees) youth mission trip to North Carolina for Habitat for Humanity. Phil noted that council wishes to thank our chaperones, Barbara and Jeff Langill and Susan Spear, for service above and beyond the call of duty. The shareholder dinner recapping the trip will be held on Sunday, 9/18 at 6:00 P.M.

Moderator’s Report: Phil gave an update of how the various commissions are faring. Membership is beginning work on a website. The Search committee is being formed and is almost complete. The Stewardship committee will meet on 8/17 with Bill VanderWyden, our consultant, to begin planning the campaign. Staffing within this group was discussed.

Missions Report: Chris reported on an upcoming used cell phone collection for HAWC. She is also planning either a workday or a meal preparation session for the Crombie Street shelter in Salem. We also discussed whether future missions giving should continue to be separate or part of total church pledges.

Treasurer’s Report: Bruce discussed funding for a new church sign. Possibilities include using cookbook or Memorials funds. Perhaps instead of replacing the sign the old one could be repainted.

Financial Report: Dwight reported that through the end of June our planned income is $18,000 short. Expenses are over plan due to escalating properties costs and the increase in oil and gas prices.

The moderator adjourned the meeting at 10:00 P.M. The next Parish Council meeting will take place on Monday, August 15^th at 7:00 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,
Susan Lambe, Recording Clerk