St Andrew’s Lutheran Church Annual Meeting AgendaJanuary 28, 2018

St. Andrew’s is recognized as a Christian community, celebrating God’s love through serving others, and working for peace and justice.

Call to order

Opening prayer

Determine quorum (40 voting members present)

Approve/revise agenda

Approve minutes of 2017 annual meeting

President’s report

Pastor’s report

EMF report

Treasurer’s report

Audit report

Old business

Approve 2016 audit

Update on Colorado Junction Sale

Update on renovation project

Update on Bishop’s report

New Business

Applications to move 2017 committee/ministry surpluses to restricted lines for future use

2018 budget approval

Changes to constitution and bylaws

Approval of Personnel committee membership

Approval of mutual ministry membership

Introduction of 2018 council and executive committee

Closing prayer

Adjourn meeting

1

St. Andrews Lutheran Church Annual Meeting

January 29, 2017

Call the Meeting to Order

11:50 am by President Lokken; over 40 voting members present (quorum reached)

Opening Prayer – Pastor Beth

Approve Agenda

Yes and with no revisions

Approve Minutes of 2016 Annual Meeting

Motion to approve (Mary Johnson, seconded Tom Prochnow); motion carries

Presidents Report – included in packet

Pastors Report – included in packet

Pastors hopes for 2017:

(1) To grow in scripture and in worship as a Christian community

(2) To grow in community as a whole emphasizing the “we” versus “they”

During Lent, congregational members will discuss how Christ through our ministries has influenced their lives.

EMF Report – in packet with highlights by Cindy Russell.

Treasurers Report – in packet with Linda reviewing highlights of the 2016 budget.

Audit Report – Carol Moran provided details of semi-annual audits. All is in order with finances.

Old Business

(1) Approve 2015 audit – motion made (Carol Putz and seconded by Dave Putz) to accept the 2015 audit report + 3 suggestions made by audit committee; motion carries.

(2) Approve minutes of the special congregational meeting held May 15, 2016 (refinance mortgage on rental properties) – motion to approve by Dave Putz and seconded by Mary Johnson); motion carries.

(3) Approve minutes of the special congregational meeting held October 2, 2016 (Colorado Junction) - motion to approve by Dave Putz and seconded by Mary Johnson); motion carries.

(4) Update on Colorado Junction sale – Mary reported no offers for purchase as of yet but the intention is still to sell. Discussion ensued. Dave Putz made a motion(seconded by Sharon

Prochnow) that “Council should review the charge made to the SALC CJ sale committee and develop a means for regular review and renewal of these activities”.

2

(5) Update on Renovation Projects – Linda reported that as of December 31, 2016, 86% of goal is pledged or received with $16,000 needed to complete proposed projects.

New Business

(1) Applications to move 2016 committee/ministry surpluses to restrictive lines for future use – 4 requests reviewed by Linda; motion made to accept request via Mary and seconded by Gordon Lundberg; motion carries. These budget requests will be carried over to the 2017 budget for these 4 committees.

(2) 2017 budget approval – Linda discussed the algorithm for budget reductions contributing to the 2017 budget. Motion to approve budget made by Linda, seconded by Dave Putz; Voice vote approves 2017 budget*.

*An amendment to the approval motion was made (by Sarah, seconded by Mary Johnson): if contributions exceed what has been proposed in 2017 budget, that amount beyond $10,000 will be used for ELCA benevolence; motion carries.

(3) Approval of personnel committee membership – members approved.

(4) Approval of mutual ministry membership – members approved.

Introduction of 2017 Council and Executive Committee

Introduced with the exception of treasurer (in progress).

Close with Prayer – Pastor Beth

Adjourned Meeting at 1:35 pm.

3

St. Andrew’s Data – 2011-2017

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Baptisms 2 5 5 4 3 1 4New Members 11 7 11 9 17 7 12Transfers out 3 2 7 4 7 2 17Deaths 3 5 2 2 5 3 8Statistical adjustment 0 0 0 256 0 0 0Baptized membership year 630 649 656 *407 415 418 409*Adjusted number based on membership list cleanse and maintenance in 2014

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Confirmed membership year 485 493 512 518 *358 362 370Confirmations 5 5 4 3 3 6 4New Members 8 7 11 9 13 7 12Transfers Out 2 2 7 4 7 2 17Deaths 3 5 2 2 5 3 8Statistical Adjustment 0 0 0 166 0 0 0Confirmed membership year 485 512 520 *358 362 370 369*Adjusted number based on membership list cleanse and maintenance in 2014

Attendance: 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

10:15am, 10:30am Sunday 158 150 132 136 117 101 94Summer Schedule 125 121 103 103 94 85 77Easter (started 2014) 270 289 254 176Wednesday (began 8/2014) 25 69 na naChristmas Eve (3pm) (began 2014) 68 50 50 55Christmas Eve (7pm) 231 186 128 174 171Christmas Day (not since 2013) 15 n/a n/a 39 na

Budget: 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Total Budgeted Expenditures 330,479 313,641

362,657 333,595 292,936

278,045

Actual Benevolence 48,494 41,833 21,656 23,632 11,530 22,267*Actual Programs 20,119 22,643 24,234 20,226 14,564 15,031Actual Personnel 161,846 167,13

0222,935 213,341 168,67

9155,991

Actual Debt Retirement 17,720 6,080 0 0 0 0ActualFacilities/Administrative Support 50,820 51,999 55,428 54,721 56,691 48,432 TOTAL ACTUAL

EXPENDITURES298,999 289,68

5324,253 311,919 251,46

4241,721

*includes $4,000 additional ELCA for 2015 but paid in 2016

Percentage of Expenditures: 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017

Benevolence 16 14 7 7.6 4.6 9.2*Programs 7 8 7 6.5 5.8 6.2Personnel 54.1 58 69 68.5 67 64.5Debt Retirement 5.9 2 0 0 0 0Facilities/Administrative Support 17 18 17 17.5 22.5 20*includes $4,000 additional ELCA for 2015 but paid in 2016

4

St. Andrew’s Lutheran ChurchParochial Report 2017

Baptisms (4)

Addilyn Marie GrinhaugFreya Isadora CowellMatthew ClouserMorgan Clouser

Funerals (8)

Connie Litzel (memorial service will be this summer)Neill ThompsonArla RandolCarmen KenyonWayne CaspersonJames MottFrank SchallerGary Titus

Confirmands (4)

Kaija RiceAnnika RiceAndrew KovarMegan Riesselman

New Members (12)

Carla and Randy SaccoChristine Baizley and Lucien Baizley-HazellAndrew ShirleyNora NelsonKira Clouser, Matthew Clouser, Morgan ClouserLisa RichardsBlythe & Kaitlyn Schultz

Members Transferred Out (17)

Nancy RosenquistMark & Shelley AckermannJim & Jackie ButenhoffJamie, Jennifer, Zack, Erika and Kaley ButenhoffJennie LeGates and Fritz WehrenbergJoe & Lisa, Jacqueline, Austin NowersJudy Casperson

5

Pastor Beth Bachman Caulfield 2017

St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church is recognized as a Christian community,

celebrating God’s love through serving others and working for peace and justice.

Baptisms/Affirmations of Baptism

This year, we celebrated the baptisms of Freya Cowell, Addilyn Grinhaug, Matthew Clouser, and Morgan

Clouser.

On All Saints Sunday, four students (Megan Riesselman, Kaija Rice, Annika Rice, and Andrew Kovar) said

“yes” to the gift of their baptism through the rite of Affirmation of Baptism (Confirmation).

We received ten new members (Carla and Randy Sacco, Christine Baizley, Lucien Baizley-Hazell, Andrew

Shirley, Nora Nelson, Kira Clouser, Lisa Richards, Kaitlyn and Blythe Schultz) as they promised to live

out their baptism in our faith community.

We Celebrated the Lives of St Andrew’s Members

Over the course of the year, we mourned together and celebrated the lives Carmen Kenyon, Frank

Schaller, Gary Titus, Wayne Casperson, Arla Randol, and Neill Thompson. They were all such an

important part of our Christian community. Each time we have a funeral at St. Andrew’s, I appreciate all

of the people who work together to help with the worship service and prepare/serve the meal. It is an

important ministry to the families!

Children and Family Ministry We have grown our Sunday ministry this year. It has been a joy to have the Sunday School children sing during worship. We have also added some Children and Family activity nights. In October, we welcomed 11 elementary age children and their parents for a Halloween party. It was a great opportunity for parents to connect with each other and for children to have fun at church together. In December, at the Christmas party, it was great to see families grow in their relationships with each other.

Confirmation and High School Ministry What a joy it is to see the growth in our confirmation/high school youth group this year! We consistently have 15 students who are in the Middle School Confirmation Class/High School Youth Group. The groups spend the majority of their time together as both groups include catechism, bible study, and fun activities.

6

Adult Ministry: Education & Small Groups We have had many Sunday morning informative Adult Forums learning about ministries in our area. We focused on Martin Luther for a time as we recognized the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. This next year, we will study the Women & Justice draft social statement that was recently released to congregations. I would also like to see us include more Bible Study during the adult forum time.

I have also been thinking about adult small groups in our church. Presently, we have several small groups that are called committees. I notice that committee members are getting tired and they do not appear to be very nourished in their work. I would like for us to think about how we can start small groups that focus on our individual spiritual growth and thus build Christian community.

Lutheran-Catholic Reformation Commemoration The Lutheran-Catholic Reformation Commemoration service on All Saints Sunday was wonderful! I enjoyed leading worship with Father Jim Secora from St. Cecelia’s. At the service, one Catholic man had tears in his eyes as he told me how grateful he was for this meaningful worship experience of Lutheran-Catholic unity, especially with a pastor who is a woman. He said through tears, "I never thought I'd see the day."

Staff I am so grateful to work with our wonderful staff. This year, we welcomed youth coordinators, Kaitlyn & Blythe Schultz; new custodian, Gary Deal; and nursery assistants, Karissa Adams and Maddie Lee.

Vision Statement This summer, we developed a new vision statement: St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church is recognized as a Christian community, celebrating God’s love through serving others and working for peace and justice. Let’s take a look at some other highlights of 2017, through the lens of this vision statement:

St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church is recognized as a Christian community

During this year, we have significantly increased the social media presence of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church.

In June, pre-school through 5th graders enjoyed “God’s Superheroes” Vacation Bible School and we welcomed Assistant to the Bishop, Pastor Erika Uthe.

Over the summer, I led the sermon series “Hard Questions, Faith Answers.”

We joined AMOS (A Mid-Iowa Organizing Strategy) to partner with other institutions in putting relational power into action. At St Andrew’s, we started body building sessions to build relationships within our congregation and help us identify needs in our community.

In October, we joined with 300 others to be present at the first annual Ames PrideFest, to reach out and build community for those who identify as LGBTQIA. Also in October, children, teens, and families enjoyed the trip to Center Grove Orchard.

7

Celebrating God’s Love

In February, we welcomed Hans and Nelson Peterson as they led a worship service and mini-concert.

During Lent, congregation members shared their favorite Bible stories through “What’s Your Story?”

In May, we celebrated our ministry partnerships with our friends at the Pine Ridge Reservation and in Hedaru, Tanzania. It was a festive worship service!

In August, our high school youth led us in worship following their Rooted Service Learning Trip. We also worshipped at Brookside Park, blessed backpacks, and enjoyed brunch.

Through Serving Others

In January, we celebrated the madrigal dinner and raised money for students to attend the summer Service Learning trip.

In April, we invited Muslims over for dinner in the Fellowship Hall. The hall was full! We also participated with our Jewish friends in the Holocaust Remembrance service at the synagogue.

Over the course of the year, homebound members received Mp3 players and recordings of Sunday worship services.

And Working for Peace and Justice

In June, High School Youth Group attended the “Rooted” synod youth gathering in Las Vegas and Phoenix. They learned about several issues including human trafficking and homelessness. “If you see something, say something!”

Throughout the year, groups traveled to Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota to deliver much-needed clothing and furniture. The Pine Ridge Artist Center project expanded to include an on-line presence.

We purchased a van and new computer for the Tanzania Hedaru parish integrated farming project. 

None of these ministries would be possible without the faithfulness of our church members, the giftedness of our staff, and the persistent love of Jesus Christ.

Christ’s Peace,

Pastor Beth Bachman Caulfield

8

President’s Annual Report

Church Council Year 2017

The hardest thing for me to do is to ask for help. And the next hardest thing is to admit I need help. I decided to own it in 2017.

After struggling to keep a stiff upper lip for the better part of two years as president, I prayed harder than I ever have. And prayer comforted me but didn’t do the work for me. It did give me the courage to do something.

Then I remembered my dad who always said God helps those who help themselves. So, I called the Bishop.

Terrified that I would do great harm to our faith family, our pastor, our staff, and our beloved St. Andrew’s I called the Bishop. I said we have financial problems and other issues and need some help.

He asked me a lot of questions and then explained the process we went through of sending a team to meet with members and gather information.

We’ll have the response January 23 in a meeting with the Bishop, Pastor Beth and 2017 and 2018 Councils. Until then I don’t know what will come out of all this, but I do know that asking for help is a good thing and being willing to admit you need it is a good thing.

So, I won’t summarize 2017 council actions because if you want that the minutes are published in the newsletter and posted on our website and you can read them.

What I really want to do is say thank you to all of St. Andrew’s for the last two years.

Thank you, Pastor Beth for carrying on during a challenging time which most of us will never come close to bearing ourselves.

Thank you, council members for pushing forward and pushing back depending on the circumstances and for never giving up.

Thank you to the rest of the staff for continuing to do your jobs with passion.

Thank you to all the chairs and committees for doing the work of a church in so many ways I cannot count them nor thank you enough for them.

Thank you for all of St. Andrew’s faith family for remembering we are in this together.

It has been two years of personal growth for me and I hope I have served you well.

Our future may be unclear from time to time, but our faith is strong, and we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Mary Clare Lokken

9

EDUCATION COMMITTEE - 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

Committee Members: Betty Buttenhoff, Laura Frescoln, Sheryl Drury, Sharon Anderson, Solveig Rice, Susan Teas, Kris Parsons-Council Rep.

SUNDAY SCHOOL (Preschool-5th Grade):

The curriculum Living God’s Word (which followed the Narrative Lectionary Year 3) was the primary curriculum used for instruction during the spring semester. The following enthusiastic volunteers took turns teaching: Sheryl Drury, Solveig Rice, Erik Goodale, Al Jergens, Pat Thompson, Sharon Anderson, and Laura Frescoln.

During the summer months, both the curriculum materials and the one-classroom format were evaluated. Subsequently, adjustments were made for the fall semester. Growing in Christ educational materials were chosen and children were divided into two groups – the Younger Elementary Classroom (led by Chris Caulfield) and the Older Elementary Classroom (led by Laura and Emily Frescoln).

EASTER EGG HUNT on Easter Sunday: We had been saving plastic eggs for many years so only had to buy the candy to fill the eggs (which the middle school/high school youth volunteered to fill). Eggs were “hidden” in three separate age-group areas – two on the east side and one on the west. Children quickly found their eggs, emptied them, and returned the empties to us for use again next year.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: “Hero Central”, was presented June 5-9 at St. Andrew’s. Approximately 35 individuals thoroughly enjoyed a wide variety of activities, exciting songs and dances, and special take-home projects. Our leaders included Kendra Caulfied, Masie Lewis, Kaija Rice, Annika Rice, Rachel Grinhaug, Noah Madsen, Ava Chopskie, Lauren Anderson, Julia Martin, Paige Fritz, Missy chance, and Susan Teas.

RALLY SUNDAY – SEPTEMBER 10th: Helium filled balloons attached to Tootsie Roll Pops were assembled early Sunday morning and taped to the end of each pew and up the Narthex hallway. Thanks to all who assisted with the decorations.

THIRD GRADE BIBLES: The tradition of presenting Good News Bibles to 3rd graders was reinstated on Rally Sunday. In addition to Madelyn Caulfield and Maggie Haggas (3rd graders), Bibles were presented to our 4th and 5th graders too – Oren Geisinger, Sawyer Larson, Brennan Lunde, Erik Rice, and Connor Lunde.

10

OPENING MUSIC: For the first 10-15 minutes of class each Sunday morning, the children enthusiastically participate in singing some old favorites and learning new favorites. Spring leaders were Michelle Rowe and Laurie Hoifeldt; Susan Teas became the leader in the Fall.

BIG-SCREEN TV FOR INSTRUCTION: A big-screen TV was purchased (thanks to the “J” Andrae Memorial monies) for VBS and a second TV was purchased this Fall so both classrooms have additional opportunities for teaching and subsequent learning.

FELLOWSHIP HOSTS: The Education Committee, with assistance from the Fellowship Committee, were hosts on Confirmation Sunday when our four 9th graders were confirmed.

THE CHRISTMAS STORY: During the Sunday morning worship service on December 24th, 17 children in full costumes presented the story of Jesus’ birth.

11

Extended Ministries Fund (EMF) 2017 Report

Our committee’s ongoing goal is to encourage and facilitate spending of memorial funds in both the designated and undesignated categories. The use of these funds should be for non-budgeted items that are used to promote and extend the ministries of St. Andrew’s (EMF Mission Statement). We have developed a “Proposal for Use of Funds” form that is available on the St. Andrews website for any committee to apply for EMF funds.

Our committee has voted that at the end of each calendar year, the undesignated line items (individual memorials) from the current year, will be condensed into a pool of funds to me named The EMF Grant Fund.

2017 Committee Accomplishments:

- One Scholarship awarded -Article in the Tribune Sun

- Management of Memorial Funds

-Which includes sending thank yous to all memorial contributors and working with the families of undesignated memorials to determine their wishes as to how the memorials are used.

-To date in 2017, EMF funds have been used for the purchase of two televisions for use in the Sunday school rooms (from the Andreae memorial)

Our committee is also responsible for the growth and management of St. Andrew’s Endowment.

Respectfully submitted,

Cindy Russell

Fellowship and Funeral Committee 2017

12

The Fellowship and Funeral Committee enjoys and is committed to coordinating fellowship events. Our purpose is to bring the congregation closer together as a faith family. Our priorities are to invite, serve and welcome.

We assist other committees that need help with food preparation, help to keep the kitchen clean and organized, stock the kitchen with paper and cleaning supplies, coffee and lemonade for all committees to use. We also prepare and host an after service funeral lunch for grieving family and friends on request.

The Fellowship Committee continues to provide treats on the first Sunday of the month. All of the other church committees fill in the rest of weeks in the month on a rotation basis which amounts to about 3 times a year. With this help we are able to have fellowship every Sunday as everyone enjoys getting together with old friends and greeting new members and visitors. Thank you to every church committee!

Here is a list of some of the activities the committee has helped with this year. Quiche Brunch provided to congregation before the Annual Meeting in January Coordinated Lenten Soup Supper assignments; served two suppers Hosted a Birthday Sunday in May with thirteen homemade cakes contributed by church

members Served cake at Graduate Sunday Cake was served on Confirmation Sunday Cake was served for New Member Sunday and small lunch for orientation the week before Served a Stewardship Commitment/Reformation Sunday lunch in October Assisted with Edith Wessel’s 90th birthday celebration A Pie Fest was hosted after the Thanksgiving Eve Service Served lunch for seven funerals March through November (see below) Served Fellowship at least one Sunday in the month

A refrigerator was donated by Linda and Sam Houk and in so doing avoided an expensive repair to the old one. The new refrigerator is a wonderful addition to the kitchen and we appreciate the Houk’s generosity in giving it to us. A great big thank you to Susan Teas for making coffee Sunday mornings! Susan has been doing this for many years.

2017 was a difficult year for everyone as we mourned the loss of seven members and friends; Gary Titus, Frank Schaller, Jim Mott, Wayne Casperson, Carmen Kenyon, Arla Randol and Neill Thompson. Our appreciation to all of you who helped assist with arrangements, set the tables, made and served food, provided flowers, helped in the dining room and cleaned up at the funeral lunches for all of the families and friends.

Thank you to each and every one of you who help with food preparation and service for fellowship hour after church and for all the special occasions we celebrate together as a faith family. We look forward to working with all of you!

Our committee members in 2017 were Gayle Osterberg, Chair, Charlotte Kemp, Jo Ann Kovar, Lynnette Jensen, Alycia Carlsborg, and Miriam Takle. We lost our dear friend Arla Randol in October. Arla was a committee chair and member for so many years and we treasure her dedication. She taught

13

us so much. Our thanks to Mary Lokken for her being a part of our committee as well as our liaison to council.

14

OUTREACH COMMITTEE

Committee members ere Betty Beard, Pat Thompson, Vi Tweed, Mary Lokken, Tom Prochnow and Linda Hansen.

The Outreach Committee “shall encourage evangelism by inviting members of the community to hear the gospel, contact prospective and inactive members, and work with Pastor in visitation of sick and shut-in members. It shall work with the Pastor to arrange for a reception and orientation of new members.”

Because of constantly changing technology, it is challenging to use the best possible venue for reaching out to the community. It is particularly challenging when our entire committee is made up of the “older generation,” We ask that our younger, more technology oriented members prayerfully consider joining our committee next year to help us with those of these issues. We are grateful to Susan Teas for sponsoring the Ames Tribune Church Brief section this year.

Our year’s activities included:a. Arranging greeters for Sunday services, sending cards to the sick and bereaved, as well as new

parents and visitors, filling worship bags for children, taking photos for our Facebook page. Many thanks to Heather for keeping our page up to date and organized, and for the innumerable ways she has helped us this year.

b. Visiting our home bound members and sent them cards on special occasions.c. Providing hospitality for fellowship following worship and soup for Lenten service.d. Keeping the visitor table in the narthex supplied, providing sign in sheets for church pews, and

providing corsages and name badges for new members, as well as making a picture display of new members. In an effort to help ;new members, visitors and regular members get acquainted, new lanyards and name badges were provided and are within easy reach. Please make our efforts worthwhile by wearing your name during church and fellowship. These are comfortable and won’t stag clothing.

e. Taking tapes of sermons to home bound who desire them.f. Giving cookie boxes to students at ISU before dead week and finals. g. Presenting cross Christmas ornaments to those who lost loved ones this year.k

Special Projects:a. WelcomeFest at ISU. THANK YOU to all the members who said “yes” when asked to participate. We

had a new stand-up banner made for this occasion and future needs.b. Helped youth by providing building supplies for Hope House.c. Helped with our booth at PrideFest. Thank you to all who weathered the pouring rain that day at

Bandshell Park.d. Advertised three times in the Daily to in invite new students to St. Andrews

We have met some of our goals, but need to improve on setting and reaching goals. We ask that YOU give us your suggestions for Outreach.

Yours in Christ,Linda Hansen, Chair

15

PRMT YEAR-END REPORTWe have had another successful year, meeting new friends, working with new agencies, and enjoying working and supporting our old and dear ones. We were able to help the new girl school with donations. With these donations, we were able to help a group of girls succeed in school and prepare for college.We were able to take donations, meals, and supplies to the Oyate Teca youth center to help thecommunity of Kyle, SD. Oyate Teca was able to offer classes to learn about gardening, canning, andmoney management. Donations to OST Partnership for housing helped feed and clothe a group of kids in the Pine Ridge township. We were able to take a display case to the new nursing home so their families can display and sell their art work to help support their family members. And much, much more.Not to mention the individuals we were able to assist. A grandma taking care of 13 grandkids with a washing machine, a dresser to young girl who really had nothing of her own, some furniture for a family of 8 who are living in a basement, if we are able to make their situation now just a little easier, maybe self-sufficiency will be easier to reach.One real exciting thing we able to participate in was supporting the local Catholic church with help for a special mass and dinner for the coming of the bishops who are working on the steps the Catholic Church takes to process someone as a saint, Nicholas Black Elk a Lakota catechist. See attached article.Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement. We looking forward to another great year.Respectful submitted,Kris Parsons

16

Property Committee Year-End Report

2017 Members: Don Boyle- Chair, Linda Houk/rental property liaison, Sam Houk, Dean Janssen, Lynnette Jensen, John Kovar, Joel Paulson, Linda Seaverson, and Bonnie Smelser

Council Liaison: Gene Takle

The property committee oversees the church properties, making maintenance repairs and renovations relative to the vision and mission of the church. Major improvements completed in 2017 included the installation of four LED lights on poles in the parking lot, the parking lot was restriped, gravel was added to east parking lot, new toilet was installed in men’s restroom, the replacement of a number of cracked storm windows which cover sanctuary stained glass windows, sanctuary floor was repaired by the baptismal font, and a number of cracks in pews were repaired. In addition, Gary Deal and Tony Ritz cleaned the church on a weekly basis. Don Boyle cleaned when Gary was unavailable. A dead elm tree was removed in the autumn. A report on the renovation work is found elsewhere in this handout but Linda Seaverson was vital to this project getting completed. Members of the committee and other volunteers were very involved in annual maintenance work. Thanks to all listed here for their generous gifts of time and talents to make our facility a welcoming well maintained church home. Let us recognize with grateful hearts:

Land Maintenance: Dean Jannsen and Joel Paulson for mowing; Dean Jannsen for edging sidewalks; Lynnette Jensen for caring for flowers, Daryle Vegge for cleaning flower beds around columbarium and removing brush, Dean Jannsen, Linda Seaverson, Sam and Linda Houk for weed, pod and leaf removal; Pauline and Les Miller for landscaping east narthex door entry; Les Miller for hauling away brush and putting up and taking down tarp on playground; Sam Houk for cleaning eave troughs, and Dean Jannsen for spraying and fertilizing church lawns.

Church Maintenance and cleaning: Members of Worship and Arts committee, Roy Teas, Joel Paulson, Don Boyle, Sam and Linda Houk, Gene and Miriam Takle, Haggas family, Cheryl White, Gary Deal, Lynnette Jensen, Linda Seaverson, Almira Uemura, Susan Teas and Dean Jannsen. The church would like to acknowledge a gift of a refrigerator from the Houk family. A special thanks to Linda Seaverson for keeping track of the finances for the committee.

Rental Property Cleaning and Painting: Lynnette Jensen continues to do a wonderful job of caring for plants and cleaning at Colorado Junction on Wednesdays. Lynnette and Linda Houk painted the south exterior of Colorado Junction in October. In addition, Lynnette cleaned and painted a substantial amount of the top floor apartment in the triplex on Story Street. This apartment now has new carpet and refrigerator and a new used stove. Linda Houk helped clean the kitchen in this unit. First Property management oversaw most of the renovation work in this unit. In addition the house at 3404 West St was completely renovated and is now rented. Lynnette and Linda H. cleaned the house after the renovation work was completed.

Rental Management Company: First Property Management Company continues to do an adequate job of managing the rentals.

Rentals: All residential units are currently rented through July of 2018. There is one small commercial space available in Colorado Junction. The financial condition with the rentals continues to slowly improve barring any unforeseen disasters. This is due in large part to First Property Management.

17

Future: Most members are continuing to serve on the committee in 2018. Bonnie will probably not continue as she is leaving Ames. We wish her good luck in her future endeavors. Joel Paulson has agreed to be co-liaison for the rental properties. The committee is still looking for a chair. Because there were a number of HVAC issues this past year, Dean Jannsen and other committee members visited with local HVAC companies to ask for recommendations or quotes on replacement units. This resulted in an engineering company, Bluestone Engineering, evaluating the old and inefficient HVAC system in the sanctuary. The committee hopes to get Bluestone’s report in early 2018. Child Serve, which runs a day camp at the church in the summer, requires that a defibrillator be located at the church. The team hopes to get the defibrillator installed before the camp starts in June. Two panes of the stained glass windows in the sanctuary are cracked and need to be replaced.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Houk, 2017 Rental Property Liaison

18

RENOVATIONS REPORT FOR 2017By Linda Seaverson

On December 14, 2014, St. Andrew’s held a special congregational meeting on plans to undertake several renovation projects to be completed 2015 through 2017. The congregation unanimously approved a renovation plan of $110,000 to address these pressing updates. As of Nov. 30, 2017, $100,248 had been pledged or received leaving $9,752 more to reach the goal. Total expenses made to date are $98,589.

In 2015, the Phase 1 projects included were undertaken: A new roof above the north end of the church. The old rock from roof was used as fill for the

gravel parking. Automatic door openers installed on both the west entrance and the south sanctuary

entrance through funding from the Extended Ministries Fund. The kitchen renovation including a commercial dishwasher The family restroom renovation of new flooring, ductwork covering, light switch replacement,

and entrance door paint. Exterior soffits above west entrance and offices. Altar handrails. Larry Pearson, who constructed the Sphere of Mission, was commissioned to

design and produce the handrails. They were installed in early 2016.

Phase 2 of the Renovations began in 2016. Renovations to be included in this phase are: Repairs to the west parking lot including better handicap accessibility(completed in 2016) Sunday School wing renovation. (The carpet in hallway/west entry was replaced in 2017.) Kitchen appliances. (A refrigerator was donated in 2017.)

Donations to help complete the Renovations can be made by check to St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church. Please write “Renovations” on the memo line.

19

St. Andrew’s Rental PropertiesBy Linda Seaverson

St. Andrew’s continued to own several rental houses and Colorado Junction during 2017 as listed below. The properties are managed by First Property Management (FPM) which also handles their finances. These properties pay all their own expenses including mortgage and insurance. The finances of these properties are kept separate from the church’s operating finances and have separate bank accounts. Offerings made to St. Andrew’s are not used to cover expenses of the rental properties.

As of Nov. 30, 2017 the mortgage balance was $431,588 at 4.200% with a maturity date of June 2021 with First National Bank, Ames. The mortgage was last renewed in June of 2016. The mortgage amount includes $20,000 added to the loan to teardown vacant house on 3320 Story Street.

Rental Properties under mortgage: Colorado Junction Three houses north of the church building: 3404 West St, 3410 West St., 3414 West St

Rental Properties not under mortgage:3320 Story St. (house east of gravel parking lot which is a triplex)

The rental properties were close to full occupancy throughout the year. The financial condition of the rental properties has improved over the last year due to good management by FPM, and lower expenses for mortgage, taxes, and insurance costs than in the past.

One space in Colorado Junction is used by the Pine Ridge Ministry Team for donated clothing collection, sorting and storage.

See the 2017 Treasurer’s Report for further financial details of the rental properties.

20

Report of Team Appointed to Sell Colorado Junction By Linda Seaverson

Below is a timeline of important events of this committee.

October 2, 2016. A special congregational meeting was held concerning an unexpected party’s interest in purchasing Colorado Junction. Per the meeting minutes, the following two motions were unanimously approved.

Motion #1. “We move to potentially sell Colorado Junction. The final price and terms of sale will be negotiated and finalized by the appointed team of St. Andrew’s members which includes Mary Lokken(President), Daryle Vegge (Past President and Council member), Linda Seaverson (Treasurer), Linda Houk (Rentals Property Liaison), John Russell (Banker), Joel Paulson (Realtor) and Lilith Dorr (Realtor). The congregation authorizes the team to sell, or reject the offer, based on the negotiated terms.”

Motion #2. “Motion: to use the proceeds of sale to pay off mortgage on all rental properties. Use of proceeds from the sale that exceed the amount required to retire the mortgage shall be decided by the congregation.”

The interested party did not submit an offer.

January 29, 2017, Annual MeetingPer the meeting minutes: Mary Lokken (President) reported no offers for purchase as of yet but the intention is still to sell. Discussion ensued. Dave Putz made a motion (seconded by Sharon Prochnow) that “Council should review the charge made to the SALC CJ sale committee and develop a means for regular review and renewal of these activities”.

April 9, 2017 CJ sale committee met to review an offer made to buy Colorado Junction. The offer was reviewed and considered too low. The committee recommended to let the offer expire, thank the party for the offer, continue on to operate CJ and consider action in the future, and inform the congregation that an offer was received and rejected because it was too low.

November 12, 2017 The committee met to review the current status of Colorado Junction and made the following recommendations .

The committee recommends that council remain in charge of this committee and call it together if something with Colorado Junction changes or an offer comes forward.

The committee feels keeping the options open makes it easier to take action if it is required. Since the president and treasurer change year to year, the council can assign them to the

committee and also keep real estate folks involved because of their special knowledge. Linda Seaverson will prepare a report for the annual meeting and will include the two motions

from 10-16 and 1-29 congregational meetings to clarify who is in charge - the council. Overall management of CJ is being handled well by the property management company, (First

Property Management) and the property committee.

The 2017 financial information of all the Rental Properties can be found in the Treasurer’s report.

Tanzania Ministry Team: Annual Report: 2017

21

TMT Mission Statement – To support the spiritual growth of the communities of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and Hedaru Lutheran Parish, we will build relationships through prayer, communication and communal support that seek to understand each other’s unique roles within the Body of Christ.

Tanzania Ministry Team’s goals are to work with Hedaru Lutheran Church to 1) oversee the companionship, 2) to encourage activities that build relationships, 3) to encourage faith-sharing between the churches, and 4) to work on projects together.

In 2017, TMT participated in many activities within the church and the companionship, many in conjunction with Pine Ridge Ministry Team:

Events and Happeningso Lenten Soup Supper: we served soup and bread on GOOD FRIDAY.   o Easter Breakfast was again prepared and served with PRMT. o TMT provided fellowship 4 times during the year.o Church service in conjunction with PRMT.o Adult Forum presentation.o Alternative Gift Market in conjunction with PRMT.

Projects:o Our “Chickens for Change” project has reached the end of its need for support. Farms are

running smoothly and independently.o The orphanage project grew in Hedaru, with the installation of a rainwater catchment

system, and a chicken coop. The installation of a goat pen and a garden are still in progress.

Travel: Carol Putz took a trip to TZ in March to meet with the farmers, orphanage staff, and children. Discussed water project, village life, and farming projects.

The Tanzania Ministry Team continues to be excited about the mission we feel God has given us, and we are enthused about the path we are following. In 2018 we look forward to working on helping orphans in our companion village of Hedaru, growing the integrated farming project, and helping Hedaru Lutheran to take care of the poor. We are also beginning the planning of a youth trip to TZ in the summer of 2019. Throughout the challenges of 2017, wonderful things continued to happen in our ministry, and we feel confident God will lead us to more wonderful things in the year to come.

As always, we wish to thank you, the people of St. Andrew’s, for your continuing support of your time, your gifts, and most of all your never-ending prayers. We look forward to doing God’s work with our hands in 2017.

Respectfully submitted,Carol Putz, TMT chair

22

Worship and Arts

2017 Annual Report

The Worship and Arts (WA) committee works closely with Pastor Beth, the music staff, and many volunteers to keep our weekly worship experience meaningful and running smoothly. Thanks to our many volunteers this is possible. WA schedules and trains the worship volunteers that usher, prepare communion, serve communion, read the scripture, assist the pastor during the service and run the sound system. In the interest of continuity and efficiency , Heather has taken over the scheduling. The following is the list of volunteers who are needed each Sunday:

a. Readersb. 1 Sound systemc. 4 Ushersd. 2 Communion Prepe. 3 Communion Serversf. 1 Assisting Ministers

WA purchases th supplies we need including communion bread, wine, candle oil, large print worship books and bulletins, new music and seasonal decorations. We organize the flower sales at Christmas and Easter. We are very grateful to Denise Link, Wine Shop at Home, who has been donating the wine for several years.

The worship space is decorated according to the liturgical seasons with altar paraments, banners and other seasonal decorations. We continue to use the Narrative Lectionary.

WA supports the Music program, with new music for the choir and ensemble. Music continues to be a strong program at SALC and we are very grateful to all of our music staff and volunteers. Our budget also includes tuning of our organ and the pianos.

This past summer we once again planned an outdoor Worship service and brunch at Brookside Park. The event was well attended, the food was catered by Hy-Vee.

In February we sponsored Hans Peterson and his son. They lead a dynamic and inspiring worship service.

WA also must oversee the budget and predict the needs for the coming year.

We look forward to the year ahead, knowing that we are being led by the Holy Spirit as we proclaim the Gospel to all who enter our doors and beyond. Although there are challenges ahead, we know that God is leading us.

23

Youth Committee – 2017 Annual Report

Committee Members – Kaitlyn Schultz, Blythe Schultz, Solveig Rice, Jo Ann Kovar, Chris Caulfield, Sarah Runyan

Staff – In the fall semester, there was a staffing change in the youth coordinator position. Michelle Rowe was in the position from January – February and Blythe and Kaitlyn Schultz started in mid-March.

Sunday School 6th – 12th Grade – This group meets every Sunday morning during the Sunday School hour for a breakfast supplied by Blythe and Kaitlyn and for bible study on the narrative lectionary passage for the week. The youth study the bible using the 5 Lutheran questions (law and gospel, where is Jesus, Scripture interprets scripture, context, and public interpretation). Attendance ranges from 4 – 13 with an average week at about 9 youth.

Confirmation 6th – 9th Grade – Starting in August 2017 Kaitlyn and Blythe reinstated a weekly confirmation class. These youth met each Wednesday from 6:30-7:00 with Blythe and Kaitlyn to study the small catechism and dive deeper into their faith and understanding of what it means to be Lutheran. In November, four 9th graders were confirmed. Their confirmation was celebrated with a confirmation dinner for the confirmands and their families the Friday before confirmation Sunday. During this dinner, the confirmands presented speeches about their faith and confirmation experience.

Youth Group 6th – 12th Grade – All youth met each Wednesday from 7:00-8:00 for youth group. In the spring of 2017 attendance ranged from 7-10 students and in the fall attendance ranged from 9-13 students. Wednesday nights consisted of a variety of activities. Bible studies, themed discussions, talks at ISU, and games. Each week looked a little different depending on what the group was interested in, current events, church events (like the reformation), and to keep things interesting!

In the Deep End 6th – 12th Grade – Just before school let out, the youth gave Blythe and Kaitlyn a long list of hard biblical questions they wanted to discuss. Over the summer, Blythe and Kaitlyn met with youth several weeks to have a bible study and discussion around these challenging questions. This event took place at the aquatic center. Attendees got to swim, have fun, and discuss these questions. Blythe and Kaitlyn continue to bring these questions up and expand on these conversations in bible studies and youth groups.

Rooted Summer Trip – The high school students, Kaitlyn, Chris Caulfield, and Julie Riesselman attended the multi-synod Rooted Journey this past June. The group traveled to Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, Phoenix, and Tucson to learn about homelessness, immigration, human trafficking, and care for creation. The group also participated in several projects benefitting these groups. After returning, there were several meetings to discuss the impact of this trip in depth and talk about ways to implement the lessons learned in daily life. The youth also led a church service and panel discussion to share these lessons with the congregation.

Service – The entire youth group served at Food at First twice in 2017. The group also raised money for and built the Hope House now placed in front of St. Andrew’s. During Sunday School they completed a number of other projects including making blankets for hospitalized children, writing letters to several homebound church members, and writing and passing out encouraging/uplifting notes to church members on a Sunday. Lastly, the youth group assisted with many church events including loading the Pine Ridge truck for each journey, stuffing and hiding Easter eggs for Easter Sunday, and putting on the two Children’s Parties during the Fall semester.

24

Fund Raisers – In 2017 the youth completed these fundraisers: Madrigal Dinner, Youth Run Coffee Shop, and Thanksgiving Pie Sales. Thank you for all of your support!

Birthdays – Blythe and Kaitlyn want each of the youth to know how much they are valued and cared about! For each of their birthdays, Kaitlyn made the birthday treat they requested and brought it to share with the group. The group enjoyed everything from classic cakes to ice cream sundaes.

New Materials – At the beginning of the fall semester, each member of the youth group was presented with their own Lutheran Study Bible. They will get to keep and use the same bible throughout their confirmation and youth years. They will then take the bible with them when they graduate.

Activities – There were a variety of special activities throughout 2017! Here are some of the highlights:

Lock-In – When Blythe and Kaitlyn first arrived, they asked the youth what they wanted from the group and what things they wanted to do most. At the top of every list was a lock-in! So, the first thing we did was host a lock-in! We had a midnight worship, repainted the youth room, made pizzas, and watched movies in the fellowship hall. It was a great way for everyone to get to know each other!

Coffee Shop Study Halls – About once a month during the school year the group met at a local coffee shop for a homework and study time.

Youth Group Out To Lunch – Once a month during the school year the youth group goes out to lunch together at a place the youth choose. It is fun community time!

Low Ropes Course – Over the summer the youth participated in a low ropes course at Living History Farms. Low Ropes are a great way to build community, encourage teamwork and improve communication skills. On top of that, they are a complete blast! Blythe and Kaitlyn plan to book a high ropes course in 2018.

Parties – Blythe and Kaitlyn believe that is important to celebrate the milestones and exciting parts of life. The youth group has celebrated events such as the start of school, welcoming new members, Halloween/Pumpkin Smash, and Christmas.

Summary – It was a great year for the youth of St. Andrew’s! Blythe and Kaitlyn look forward to expanding upon and growing programming in 2018.

25