NORTHERN LIGHT UNITED CHURCH

Juneau, AK

Annual Meeting of the Congregation January 29, 2017

Agenda

* Denotes Action Item

Call to Order NW Coast Presbytery Exec. Corey Schlosser-Hall

Invocation

Denominational Greetings

Establishing a Quorum (All church members may vote):

*Approval of the Agenda

*Approval of the Minutes from 1/31/16 Annual Meeting and the 5/15/16 called meeting

Visioning Café – rotating small group explorations of congregational goals and strategies

Potluck

Reports from Congregational Entities - written reports distributed in advance of the meeting

*Elections—Nominating Committee Report, Council, Deacons, Staff-Parish, Property

*Election of 2016 Nominating Committee

Additional Business to come before the congregation

Announcements

Closing Prayer

Adjournment

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Table of Contents

January 31, 2016 Annual Meeting Minutes…………………….………..3-5

May 16, 2016 Special Meeting Minutes……………………….……………6

Church Council Report…………………………………………………....6,7

Visioning Plan Summary………………………………………………...8-10

Nominating Committee Report……………………………………………11

Treasurer’s Report………………………………………………..........12-15

Balance Sheet…………………………………………………………........ 15

Budget……………………………………………………………….......16-21

Staff Parish Relations Committee Report………………………..…...21,22

Deacons Report…………………………………………….…………..23,24

Committee on Property Management Report… …………………….… 25

Committee of Community Opportunities Report…………………....26,27

Native Ministries Report………………………………………............28,29

Library Committee Report……………………………………..………...29

Community of Christian Women Report………………………………..30

Juneau Youth Ministry Cooperative Report …………………...……...31

Pastor’s Report……………………………………………….…….…32-34

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2015 Annual Meeting Northern Light United Church, January 31, 2016

Minutes

Call to Order

Corey Schlosser-Hall, the Executive Presbyter of the Northwest Coast Presbytery welcomed all to the

annual meeting and then turned the meeting over to Northern Light Council Moderator Anne

Standerwick.

Corey Schlosser-Hall from the Northwest Coast Presbytery greeted us from the other Presbyteries in the

Northwest. He explained that the organization will soon welcome more churches to be part of the group.

Phil presented greetings from Carlo Rapanut, District Superintendent, District Superintendent of the

Alaska Conference of the Western Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church.

Phil reviewed Carlo Rapanut’s ―six passions‖ or challenges for his vision for the United Methodist

Church in Alaska: Call; Engage; Welcome; Connect; Disciple; Risk

NLUC 2014-2106 Visioning Plan Update

Natalie Norberg, Joy Lyon and Myra Munson have worked extensively on the Visioning Plan. Natalie

has been the prime person who has updated the Visioning Plan for council.

Phil expressed thanks to Jim Becker who had the vision to keep the goals and visioning plans on the

council’s agenda every month.

Natalie prepared a PowerPoint presentation to review the work of the Visioning Plan.

Pastor’s Report

Phil thanked the congregation for support for the time he was away for surgery and recovery, which

spanned two program years. He had three surgeries in a period of three months. He expressed

appreciation for all who stepped up to help during that time.

Phil invited folks to read his report. Phil noted that there has been a bit of a dip in the worship

attendance, and he has been concerned about that.

He shared a statement from Walter Soboleff that, ―We can each invite someone to church.‖

Phil stated that we are a generous congregation and a financially gifted congregation. We make amazing

use of our financial resources that we share with ourselves and others. We have an abundance of time

and talent that is shared.

Treasurer’s Report

Jim Alter reported from the phone. He asks if there were any questions or comments. He thanked

everyone who is part of our congregation for their incredible financial generosity. Our church is in

excellent financial condition. This is the fourth consecutive year that our giving has met or exceeded our

budget. Preliminarily, 2015 was an amazing year: not only did we meet our budget for activity,

programs, and staffing for the year, beyond that in 2015 the congregation gave over $130,000 for ―ad-

hoc‖ identified giving during the year. This was directed support above and beyond what we had

budgeted for.

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Judy Knight expressed thanks to Jim Alter for all the hours he has put into doing a wonderful job as

treasurer.

Jim is hoping to transition out of the treasurer position so if anyone is interested let him know.

Committee on Property Management

George Reifenstein reported on the work on CPM as the chair, Nico Bus, is out of town.

Celebration of Music

Gail O’Dell led us in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖

Staff Parish Relations Committee Report

Marianne Mills chaired the SPRC during the past year. She gave a special thanks to Joy Lyon who

served as Vice Chair and to Jim Alter who served as secretary.

Committee on Community Opportunities Report

Melody Millard reported on the activities of the COCO. In addition to the annual report, she reported on

the work of Haven House, which was supported by COCO.

Deacons Report

Kate thanked Margaret Pugh, who served as treasurer, and outgoing deacon Theresa Araki. She

presented the deacon’s annual report.

Celebration of Music

Gail O’Dell led us again in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖

Community of Christian Women Report

Carol Barril reported on the activities of CCW. The next meeting will be the last Saturday in February.

All women are invited. They will discuss how to use the money earned during the bazaar.

Marion Gotschall reported on one of the projects that did not get into the report. Last year CCW

received patterns and fabric to create hygiene kits that were sent to Guatemala. This project was a big

success, with almost 400 kits given out to girls.

Native Ministries Report

Barbara Searls reviewed the Native Ministries Annual Report. She highlighted the work done with the

Yakutat Presbyterian Church.

Cooperative Youth Group

There is a visual display of the activities of the Cooperative Youth Group.

Sunday School

There is a visual display of activities of the Sunday School.

Council Report

Anne Standerwick highlighted three items with a ―show and tell.‖

- Map of Southeast Alaska to represent work with other churches

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- Stethoscope to represent matching gift for the support of the Front Street Clinic.

- Rainbow scarf to represent NLUC becoming a ―More Light‖ and ―Reconciling‖ congregation.

Anne thanked the council members and asked them to stand.

Phil expressed thanks to Anne who in addition to serving as Council Moderator continued with her work

with Sunday School, coordinator of families with young children, and accompanist for the choir.

Celebration of Music

Gail O’Dell led us again in a song with ―Alleluia‖ and ―Praise Ye The Lord.‖

Elections

Kristy Germain reported on the work of the nominating committee.

Thank you to everyone who has served on committees.

There are two additions for blanks under Staff Parish Relations Committee: Jane Ginter and Maxine

Richert have agreed to serve on SPRC.

M/S/C that nominations be closed and that we cast a unanimous ballot for the slate of names.

Election of 2016 Nominating Committee

We need five members:

Nominated:

Barbara Searls

Marion Gotschall

Linda Miller

Joy Lyon

Bruce Morley

M/S/C that nominations be closed and that we cast a unanimous ballot for the slate of names.

Additional Business to Come Before the Congregation

Mary Becker stated how wonderful it is to have a pastor who is so visible in our community. We owe

Phil a lot for his community activity. She commented on the way that June Degnan and all worked so

hard in making the Haven House a success.

Judy Knight thanks the Men’s Breakfast for setting up the tables for the annual meeting. Thanks to the

middle school Sunday School class who baked muffins and set up the tables for the meeting.

Announcements

None noted.

Closing Prayer

Closed in prayer by Corey at 2:12 p.m.

Respectively Submitted,

Jane McMillan Ginter, Stated Clerk

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Northern Light United Church Special Congregational Meeting May 15, 2016

Minutes

After the required notice being given, on May 15, 2016, a special congregational meeting was held in

the sanctuary for the purpose of filling 2 elected unexpired terms, namely Lay Leader and one position

on the Committee on Property Management.

Council Moderator Anne Standerwick called the meeting to order at 12:15 pm. A quorum was present.

Representing the Nominating Committee, Joy Lyon reported that Jane Ginter had been proposed to fill

the United Methodist Lay Leader unexpired term and John Norman had been proposed to fill the

Committee on Property Management unexpired term. There were no other nominations from the floor.

A motion was made and seconded to close nominations and to cast a unanimous ballot to elect Jane and

John to these positions.

By a voice vote, Jane Ginter was elected to be Lay Leader and John Norman was elected to the

Committee on Property Management. There was no dissent.

The meeting was adjourned at 12:18 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Anne Standerwick, Council Moderator and Clerk Pro-Tem

Church Council

The Northern Light United Church’s bylaws designate the Church Council as the governing body of the

church. The twelve members of the council are elected by the church and serve three-year terms.

2016 Council Members included:

Class of 2016 Class of 2017 Class of 2018

June Degnan Laura Doogan Pat Gorman

Myra Munson Nancy Lehnhart Kelly Henriksen

Natalie Norberg Judith Morley Marianne Mills

Anne Standerwick George Partlow Freda Westman

The NLUC Council had 11 regularly scheduled meetings in 2016, with additional communication as

needed in order to address issues in a timely manner. The council is charged with protecting the mission

of the church, making wise decisions and overseeing the management of church assets.

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This report is a summary of the work of the council in 2016. With the help and advice of various church

committees including SPRC, CPM, Deacons, Native Ministries, Finance, Community Opportunities

along with the church treasurer Jim Alter and our pastor Phil Campbell, the council has worked to

advance the mission of NLUC locally and beyond.

Work continued on the Visioning Work Plan which was developed based on congregational

participation during the 2014 annual meeting. The council has regularly revisited the visioning work

plan as we continue to move forward with efforts in areas which were identified as priorities by the

congregation. Natalie Norberg has been extremely helpful in keeping the work plan up to date and

reporting on new developments in carrying out the work plan.

Highlights in Visioning Work Plan progress this year:

Being a welcoming church: council affirmed our current practice of opening the church to any and all

weddings legal in the state of Alaska and under the oversight of the pastor and the church’s building use

policies. Members of council provided hospitality during Gold Medal week.

Helping each other learn and grow: council supported the work by Teresa Campbell in revising the pre-

school and elementary school Christian education program. We appreciate the work that Teresa and the

teachers have put into this program which is enjoying success. Congregational members participated in

Stewardship training in Anchorage and have been incorporating ideas from that training into our

stewardship program.

Seeking opportunities to serve and lead: council adopted the Earth Care Project pledge this year and

appreciates the leadership of Committee on Community Opportunities in moving forward with this

project which includes many ways we can be good stewards of the earth and environment. In addition,

we continue to work toward bringing the Family Promise project into being in Juneau (churches host

and support families experiencing homelessness). Council is also exploring ways to continue supporting

Haven House Juneau in its important mission.

Sustaining a stable church: council has been working with the Finance Committee and the Investment

Committee to examine our current investment strategies and look toward socially responsible investment

options. In addition, in a more tangible way, much needed work was completed on the manse this year,

and planning continues regarding new lighting in the sanctuary.

Thanks: It has been a pleasure serving as Moderator of the council this year and as a council member

for the last 3 years. Thank you to Pastor Phil Campbell, Treasurer Jim Alter, council members, church

committee members and all of you who give of yourselves so generously to further God’s work through

Northern Light United Church.

Respectfully submitted,

Anne Standerwick, Moderator

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2014-2016 Visioning Plan Report

Goal 1: Be a welcoming church that values, honors, and learns from diversity.

Strategies/Tactics:

1.1 Identify ways to respectfully welcome and invite new people to worship & participate in

existing church programs

1.2 Invite and initiate more sharing of Tlingit language and traditions into the service and life

of NLUC. Tlingit language classes will be explored.

1.3. NLUC will continue to offer a space for fellowship and hospitality for our Southeast

church members during Gold Medal week and Celebration.

1.4 NLUC will continue to examine its programming and activities to identify whether any

practices could be more respectful or encompassing of diversity. NLUC will continue to

strive to be more visibly inclusive of the LGBTQ community

Examples of progress made:

August 2015: NLUC officially became a More Light/Reconciling congregation to make explicit

our welcome to the LGBTQ community.

For the last three years, NLUC has opened the fellowship hall during the weeks of Gold Medal

and Celebration to offer a space for fellowship and hospitality.

A hymn is sung in the Tlingit language at the beginning of every worship service.

A sign for the church entry way was created to help direct visitors to class rooms, offices, etc.

Goal #2: Help each other to learn, grow in understanding and wisdom, and deepen our

relationships with God and each other.

Strategies/Tactics:

2.1 Identify and support an Education Committee. The new EC will assess educational

needs and develop an education work/plan schedule to include Sunday school curriculum,

Bible Study, faith, theology and denominational traditions

2.2 Identify and develop a schedule for quarterly activities that increase communication

across diversity of age, culture, politics, etc.

2.3 Explore ways to integrate/infuse Stewardship throughout the year into worship services

Examples of progress made:

Adopted a lectionary based curriculum for all ages that aligns with our weekly worship

themes so that we are learning and growing together as a community of God’s people.

Church school was implemented during the worship service, taking the place of a pre-

worship service Sunday School class.

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Goal #3: Seek opportunities to serve and lead, allowing the church and church members to grow

and be Christ in our church, community and state (especially Southeast Alaska), the United States

and the world.

Strategies/Tactics:

3.1 Create and display an inventory/summary of NLUC outreach and service opportunities,

with contact person, when and how to get involved. These could be outreach efforts or

ministries led by NLUC or supported by individuals in the congregation.

3.2 Explore and develop a concrete plan for how to support the Haven House.

3.3 Explore opportunities to partner with the Northwest Presbyterian in order to support and

mentor struggling churches in Southeast Alaska. Utilize the Native Ministries committee

for recommendations for how to best connect with or support with Southeast churches.

3.4 Ask committees and members to suggest more service opportunities (in addition to

cooking at Glory Hole and Summer Lunch program)

3.5 Address Child Hunger in Juneau:

Riverbend School Weekend Food Sack ministry

Summer Lunch Program

3.6 Family Promise Project

3.7 Earth Care Project (Supporting care of the environment as people of faith-an initiative

through our Presbyterian denomination)

Examples of progress made:

Established a Committee On Community Opportunities (COCO) that oversees our growing

initiatives on community service and social justice advocacy

March 2015: Haven House opened; NLUC has pledged ongoing financial assistance

NLUC has supported the summer lunch program and weekend food bags for elementary

students for the past two years.

NLUC has provided financial support to the Family Promise Project (temporary housing and

support for homeless families) and agreed to be one of the churches to offer a space on a

rotating basis to a family, after the program is launched.

April 2016: the Council adopted the Earth Care Pledge, this is work is ongoing

Goal #4: Sustain a stable church into the future through facility maintenance and improvement,

staffing decisions and stewardship of our resources.

Strategies/Tactics:

4.1 Draft and adopt a Statement of Responsible Investments.

4.2 Draft and adopt a plan for long-term depreciation and schedule of replacement and repair

of equipment and building.

4.3 Review and Revise NLUC By-Laws

4.4 Review, assess and produce a proposal that considers staffing needs, staffing patterns and

the need for new staff positions. Consider new paid position(s) for Church

Administrator, Treasurer, Children and Family ministries; and a stipend for a music and

worship leader.

4.5 Plan and facilitate the installation of an energy efficient heating system for the manse.

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4.6 Draft and adopt a plan for long-term plan for storage and space issues in the church.

4.6 Create a work group that will identify, prioritize and report back to council regarding

improvements needed to the physical environment of the sanctuary and fellowship hall to

enhance the comfort of parishioners.

4.7 Address the use of technology in furthering NLUC goals, relating to the enhanced quality

of the congregation's sound/visual experience and to increase advertising and the

promotion of NLUC activities and programs.

Examples of progress made:

2015: reroofed the entire church (and raised the money for it!)

2015-2016: New windows and siding installed in the manse to replace rotting infrastructure

New TV installed in the sanctuary

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Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee presents the following nominees for the class of 2019:

Council (4 Seats)

Lillian Petershoare

Debbie Reifenstein

Nico Bus

Marion Gotschall

Deacons (3 Seats)

Kristi Germain

Karen Lipson

Kimberly Homme

Committee on Property Management (CPM)

(2 seats)

Richard Doogan

Alan Akiyama

Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) (2

seats)

KJ Metcalf

Karen Dillon

The Nominating Committee thanks the outgoing and ongoing members for their service:

Council June Degnan 2016

Anne

Standerwick

2016

Natalie Norberg 2016

Myra Munson 2016

Laura Doogan 2017

Nancy Lehnhart 2017

Judith Morley 2017

George Partlow 2017

Pat Gorman 2018

Kelly Henriksen 2018

Marriane Mills 2018

Feda Westman 2018

Deacons Marie Beierly 2016

Kate Burkhart 2016

Jean Overstreet 2016

Bob Coghill 2017

Jenny Pursell 2017

Eric Scott 2017

Susan Bus 2018

Denise Carroll 2018

Wally Marvin 2018

SPRC Joy Lyon 2016

Peggy Metcalf 2016

Su Alexander 2017

Ginny Palmer 2017

Jane Ginter 2018

Maxine Richert 2018

CPM Martha DeFreest 2016

Steve White 2016

George Reifenstein 2017

John Norman 2017

Margaret

MacKinnon

2018

Pua Maunu 2018

Respectfully submitted,

Joy Lyon, Chair, Laura Doogan, Linda Miller,

Marion Gotchall, Bruce Morley, Barbara

Searls, Kelly Henrikson, Phil Campbell

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$-

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

2015Actual

2016Actual

2017Budget

NORTHERN LIGHT'S FOUR BUDGETS (Expenses)

2015 TO 2017

Music

Native Ministries

Capital

Operational

TREASURER’S REPORT

As of the end of 2016, Northern Light is in excellent financial condition. Our day-to-day fiscal

operations are sustainable; we are essentially debt-free; and we have substantial financial reserves.

This state of affairs exists because of the steady and generous fiscal support of the congregation. For

that I unqualifiedly say ―THANK YOU!‖ and encourage all of us to, in appreciative gratitude,

celebrate.

The numbers that are the underlying basis of

this report are attached as

a Balance Sheet Report, as of

December 31, 2016

the 2017 Budgets (as adopted by the

Church Council on December 8), and

the actual revenue and expenses, by

line item, for the various budgets for

2015 and 2016 (included as part of

the 2017-Budgets document).

Northern Light’s finances are organized

around four different budgets: Operational,

Capital, Native Ministries, and Music

Education.

Operational Budget

The Operational Budget is funded primarily by congregational contributions and covers our ―regular‖

operating expenses such as office supplies and equipment, day-to-day maintenance, utilities, staff,

Christian education, special offerings, and children’s food programs.

2016’s operational revenue and expenditures followed the same overall pattern of 2015 -- greater

revenue than budgeted and fewer expenses than budgeted, producing an overall positive cash flow for

the year.

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$-

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

2015Actual

2016Actual

2017Budget

OPERATIONAL INCOME NLUC

2015 - 2017

Reimbursements/Other

Endowments

Building Use

DesignatedGiving

Contributions

$-

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

$350,000

$400,000

$450,000

2015Actual

2016Actual

2017Budget

OPERATIONAL EXPENSES NLUC

2015 - 2017

Hospitality,Worship,Education

DenominationalSupport &Administration

Service andSocial Concerns

Building andProperty

Staff

Unlike 2015, ―Designated Giving‖ (money

received for a specified purpose, often times a

program that exists independently from

Northern Light but which Northern Light

endorses and therefore ―passes on‖ to the

specified recipient). during 2016 was about a

third of the 2015 amount. The 2017 budget

anticipates about the same designated giving

as in 2016. However, since the congregation

is so generous when it comes to special

appeals and needs, it would not be surprising if

this number became much greater than the

budgeted amount – in which case our

designated support (see expenses (designated

support)) would also be much greater than

currently budgeted.

Total income for 2017 is budgeted at almost

6% less than what we totally received in 2016.

Since congregational giving –―Offerings and

Contributions‖—account for over ¾ of our

operational income and the total amount pledged for 2017 was less than in 2016, the budgeted

amount for Offerings and Contributions is less than in 2016.

Operational expenditures for 2017 are

budgeted at 15% more than was actually spent

in 2016. This increase is more or less equally

spread across all major spending categories.

The fact that the total expenses in the adopted

2017 budget exceed the total income by

$4,600 is balanced by the indicated use of

various reserve funds in the total amount of

$4,600.

Capital Projects

The Capital Budget covers longer-lasting

repair and construction projects such as (in

2014) the roof repair and (for 2016) manse

repair. Although in the past we have had

special fund-raising efforts for major capital

projects, this coming year we plan to fund our

repairs with money from our cash reserves.

A significant amount of repair on the manse

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was completed in 2016. The remaining, uncompleted work is budgeted for 2017 as well as the long-

discussed sanctuary and fellowship-hall lighting. Other church-building projects are planned for

2017.

Native Ministries

The Native Ministries Budget is funded with endowment earnings from the Walter Soboleff

Endowment (passed on to Northern Light by the Alaska United Methodist Conference) and focused

on projects that reinforce and grow Tlingit culture and traditions in our congregation and throughout

Southeast Alaska.

A variety of activities identified by the Native Ministries Steering Committee will be carried out in

2017, with the possibility of additional projects added to the list later in the year.

Music Education

Our Music Education Budget supports music education for Juneau children and youth in Juneau.

This budget is funded by earnings from the Anderson Music-Education Endowment Fund. In the past

the Music Education Budget has supported programs such as the Juneau Alaska Music Matters and

the Alaska Youth Choir.

The church Council is currently reviewing proposals from interested individuals and groups for

spending Music Education money. It is likely that funds will remain available to fund additional

proposals later in the year.

JUMPP

During 2016 Northern Light agreed to serve as the fiscal agent for Juneau United Medical Providers

and Parents, LLC. JUMPP is an organization/program that provides mental health help to families

and individuals needing that assistance. As fiscal agent we receive grant money for JUMPP

programs and periodically forward funds to the program’s service providers. This is useful, from a

tax perspective, for JUMPP.

Finance and Investment Committees

As Treasurer, I am thankful for the opportunity to regularly meet with the Finance Committee and

Investment Committee. The Finance Committee has advised me and the Council on matters relating

to the Church’s finances. Its members have been John Pugh, Karen Dillon, Ginny Palmer, Martha

DeFreest, Marianne Mills, Kate Burkhart, and Phil Campbell. Northern Light’s Investment

Committee regularly meets with our financial advisers and recommends investment strategies for

Church funds to the Council. Those members are Don Gotschall and Christian Veliz.

New Treasurer

At the risk of pre-maturely announcing this: I am delighted to report that Barbara Searls has agreed to

succeed me as Northern Light’s Treasurer, starting this year. Northern Light could not have a more

competent and knowledgeable person filling the position. We are truly lucky to have her assuming

this responsibility.

I have enjoyed being Treasurer over the past few years and have felt incredibly lucky to have worked

with such a generous and caring congregation and staff. Thank you for your support and compassion

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Although I will not be at the Annual Meeting in person, I hope to participate telephonically. If there

are questions or concerns about anything in (or not in) this report that I might be able to answer,

please contact me at once either by email at jimjeanalter@hotmail.com or by phone at 808-269-4330.

- Jim Alter, Treasurer

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Staff Parish Relations Committee

The NLUC By-laws include the following functions for the SPRC:

● Conferring with the pastor and staff regarding their relationship with the congregation and the

priorities to pursue;

● Evaluating the pastor and ensuring staff evaluations occur, including recommending each year

whether the pastor should be retained;

● Ensuring that the pulpit is appropriately staffed each Sunday; and

● Evaluating and presenting to the Council the budget needs for staff salaries, allowances and

fringe benefits.

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The SPRC performed all of these functions over the course of its regularly scheduled and special

meetings in 2016, with specific focus on the following efforts:

Church Staffing and Budget Issues

The SPRC:

● Regularly consulted with the Pastor regarding specific staffing issues, including working

hours and job duties.

● Reviewed the janitorial and building needs and made the decision to move to an outside

contractor for cleaning services rather than a staff position. The committee secured bids from

several contractors and worked with Council to contract with Mari’s Marine Cleaning.

● Recommended 2017 budget compensation levels for church staff, including the pastor, church

administrator, janitor, youth group leader, nursery care giver, accompanists, choir directors,

and pulpit supply.

● Worked with the pastor to ensure that the pulpit was filled in his absence.

● Reviewed our health insurance policies in light of staff needs and Affordable Care Act

requirements.

Family and Children Ministries

The SPRC:

● Conducted safe sanctuary training in the spring of 2016 and discussed, at our meetings, issues

related to our safe sanctuary policy and procedures.

● Advised the Pastor regarding support for the youth program and Melissa Engel’s family leave.

As pastor of Douglas United Methodist, Melissa has continued to serve as inter-church youth

group leader and is compensated for the additional ¼ of her job by Northern Light, with some

anticipated financial help from the other 5 congregations participating in the youth program.

Pastor’s Evaluation

● The SPRC completed the Pastor’s annual evaluation and heartily endorses the retention of

Pastor Phil Campbell.

In addition to our appreciation of Pastor Phil Campbell, the SPRC wishes to express our thanks to our

current church staff members for their service to Northern Light, including Church Administrator

Christina Maddox, Youth Director Rev. Melissa Engel, Nursery Care Giver Olga Lipson, and

Musicians J. Allan MacKinnon and Jacque Farnsworth. A very special thanks to Teresa Campbell, for

serving as a volunteer as Sunday School Coordinator, in addition to teaching middle school and high

school Sunday School in addition to all her many other contributions to NLUC. And we offer

appreciation and gratitude for the many years of service Leonard Johnson contributed as custodian for

our congregation.

The 2016 SPRC included the following members (term ending dates indicated in parentheses):

-Joy Lyon (2016), Chair -Ginny Palmer (2017)

-Susan Alexander (2017), Vice-Chair -Maxine Richert, (2018)

-Jane Ginter (2018) Secretary, AUMC Lay Delegate -Phil Campbell, Pastor (nonvoting)

-Peggy Metcalf (2016), Co-secretary

-Myra Munson (2016), Council and Presbytery Liaison

Respectfully submitted,

Joy Lyon, Chair

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Deacons

The Mission of the Deacons is to lead a ministry of compassion, attending to

those in distress, and to encourage the congregation to be involved and

included in the loving outreach of our church.

The Role of the Deacons is to:

1. Prepare the Communion Table and invite members of the congregation to

assist in serving and sharing communion;

2. Share the care and concern of the church with congregation members in

need of comfort;

3. Share the resources of the church to people in need of emergency

assistance; and

4. Support families in hosting memorials and celebrations at Northern Light

United Church by assisting in organizing and hosting events at the church.

Activities

The Deacons prepared the Communion table and assured that servers were available at the service

each month this year. The Deacons are available to assist in making communion available to people

who cannot attend church. The Deacons also have a designee after service on Communion Sundays

for those wishing to share a private prayer.

The Deacons continued the Card Ministry, sending notes of condolence and support to congregation

members who were injured, ill, or grieving. The Deacons received significant positive feedback this

year from the card ministry. The Deacons continued hosting a celebration of birthdays, anniversaries,

and other happy moments with cake on the second Sunday of the month. Several Deacons went above

and beyond arranging for custom cakes and recruiting sponsors for cakes during special

anniversaries. The Deacons assisted in hosting memorial services at Northern Light United Church.

The Deacons share the financial gifts of Northern Light United Church through a community

emergency assistance program, which is available to all people without consideration for religious

affiliation (or any other characteristic other than need). People in need of immediate financial

assistance for rent, fuel oil, electricity, medical travel, or infant care needs can request help for the

Deacons. The church administrator coordinates the requests, which are considered by the entire

committee as quickly as possible. The Deacons drafted and approved an updated form to help ensure

that requests are appropriate and match the by-laws established for the Deacons fund. The most

common requests in 2016 were fuel oil and electricity, followed by rent.

Another part of this community assistance is the Deacons’ support for the Love, Inc. Bucket Ministry.

Bruce Morley prepares the 5-gallon buckets of cleaning supplies that Love, Inc. provides to needy

families moving into new homes. This year, Bruce delivered 47 buckets. Bruce mentioned ―I am

Deacons

Marie Beierly

Kate Burkhart

(Treasurer)

Susan Bus (Scribe/Secretary)

Denise Carroll

Bob Coghill

Wally Marvin

Jean Overstreet

Jenny Pursell

Eric Scott

(Chair)

Judy Morley Council Liaison

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always surprised how grateful folks are when they receive a bucket. It makes the delivery a gift to

me‖. Each bucket contained: 4 sponges, 4 micro rags, 1 gallon of vinegar, spray bottles, 1 box of

borax, 1 roll of kitchen garbage bags, 1 broom, 1 mop, 1 dust pan, dish soap, 1 large jug of laundry

soap, and a sheet of eco-friendly cleaning recipes.

Financial Report

The Deacons received $10,071.17 in contributions, including $3,486.96 in carryover from 2015 and a

$2,000.00 allotment from the Church Council (revenue). The Deacons shared those resources through

the emergency assistance program and the Love, Inc. Bucket Ministry.

Deacons’ 2016 Treasurer's Report

Beginning Balance $3,486.96

Income

NLUC $4,656.56

Gifts $1,927.65

Expenditures

Utilities $1,468.21

Rent $2,083.00

Love Inc Bucket Ministry $2,428.27

Gas/Transportation $495.00

Medical $80.00

Other $230.00

Total Income $7,414.61

Total Expenditures $6,784.48

Special project

The Deacons submitted a proposal to the Church Council to support more permanent name tags for

2017. The decision was made to purchase lanyards with plastic holders where printed or written

names could be displayed. This project should help to initiate conversation between those who may

not be as quick to remember names, but would still like to welcome all church members. The tags

should arrive in January 2017.

Meeting Schedule

The Deacons meet after worship on the last Sunday of each month. Everyone is welcome to

participate. Occasionally, the Deacons alter the schedule for holidays.

- Eric Scott, Chair; Kate Burkhart, Treasurer

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Committee on Property Management (CPM)

Committee Members: Martha DeFreest (Chair), Margaret MacKinnon (Secretary), Steve White,

George Reifenstein, John Norman (replaced Brian VanderNaald, 2016), Pua Maunu, Pat Gorman

(Council Representative), and Phil Campbell (Pastor).

Church lighting project, status: During 2016, Pat Gorman prepared contract drawings and researched

light fixtures and costs for new pendant style fixtures and graze fixtures (stage). A contractor has not

yet been selected, but work is anticipated to begin in spring 2017.

Earth Care Status for Northern Light United Church: Martha DeFreest and George Reifenstein

looked in to the Earthcare application with Teresa Campbell in the fall of 2016, including a church

walk-through for estimating existing energy-efficient light fixtures and bulbs. NLUC appears to

qualify. Next steps include getting an energy audit completed, which will become the foundation for

capital improvement projects to be coordinated by CPM.

Redesign of the Chancel (Front of Sanctuary) - status: CPM held three meetings in 2016 regarding

redesigning the chancel area: one with Gerald Gotschall who presented concept CAD drawings, one

with Nancy Lehnhart who reviewed with CPM a concept sketch from 2015, and one with Mike

Barnhill regarding Audio/Visual needs during a redesign. Only minimal changes to the existing

layout are desired at this time for improved functionality of the space, such as movable lecterns and

railings.

Elevator improvements - status: Research to replace the elevator with a lift was conducted during

2016 but not pursued. There are structural limitations to the ―footprint‖ for the elevator, operational

concerns, and a discussion of benefits that CPM feels does not warrant the costs.

CPM coordinated the 2016 February church interior clean-up day, completed roof gutter work on the

church exterior, provided lawn mowing in the playground area, and approved yard work contracted

labor and materials. The Manse received considerable repairs to the north side of the building for rot

and ant damage, and completed a number of miscellaneous back-logged repairs to the manse

property. Follow-up work for the manse includes minimal painting and caulking when weather

conditions are more favorable.

Priority projects for 2017:

Complete the church lighting project

Complete energy audits for both the church building and the manse

Replace church entryway exterior door

Replace two triangular entryway windows

Complete the annual elevator inspection; address repair items as needed

Repair church north basement wall

Complete Manse exterior painting - entire building

- inspect the gutters and include any necessary repair during the painting project

Complete Manse driveway resurfacing

- include drainage, retaining wall, and tying in the fence during this project

At the close of the 2016 year, Martha DeFreest and Steve White rotate off CPM.

- Martha DeFreest

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Committee of Community Opportunities 2016 Accomplishments and Vision for 2017

Working for Justice to Create a More Peaceful Community and World

The Committee of Community Opportunities (COCO), which is recognized by Council as an

established NLUC program has been active and engaged in a number of justice, peace issues and

actions in 2016 and actively planning a 2017 program.

Following are the highlights of 2016:

Family Promise - A national interfaith hospitality network program to better serve Juneau's

families without homes. NLUC is a hosting church and will provide housing for up to 14

family members from 7pm to 7am for two two-week segments during the summer. In the

morning families will be transported to a day center which has computers, showers, laundry

facilities and childcare services. From there adults travel to job interviews, job services or go

to work; children will attend school or remain in daycare.

Non-hosting support churches will provide some of the volunteers needed. Training will be

provided for volunteers and an on-call Family Promise staff person will be available at all

times.

Fundraising events have been successful and there are more organizations within the

community that are interested in partnering with Family Promise. This program has been very

successful in other communities; hosts/hostesses and guests have so much to learn from each

other.

Glory Hole - soup kitchen and temporary housing. NLUC continues an on-going support

program of financial assistance, purchasing/preparing/serving two meals a month, providing

warm weather clothes, kitchen equipment and Pastor Phil provides a role of on-call pastoral

support.

The GH continues to struggle with financial support, ending CY 2016 some $30,000 short.

This is on our list of priorities for 2017.

Summer Food Program - a five day a week hot lunch meal (FDA food program) for the

Geneva Woods housing complex for poverty level children up to 18 years old. NLUC provide

the food (some financial assistance from FDA), prepares in our kitchen, delivers and serves a

hot lunch and supervises learning and skill games to supplement the nutritional needs.

School weekend food program breakfasts, lunches and snack - purchase, store, package

Saturday and Sunday breakfast, lunch and snack foods for over 80 River

Bend students.

Non-Violent (NVC) Communication book study – Speak Peace – In A World of Conflict, by

Marshall Rosenberg. An effort to better equip folks with the NVC philosophy and techniques

of engaging in conversations within our faith community and wider community on

controversial issues.

Haven House – Transitional housing for recently released felon inmates is a key component

of successful community re-integration. The Haven house is a faith-based house for women

that has struggled to be accepted in a neighborhood and become sustainable. COCO has put a

priority on this vital community effort to help assure it is successful. We have generated some

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personal donations to help cover on-going expenses and are looking for ways to explore with

Haven’s board of directors strategies for sustainability.

Earth Care Congregation - Being certified as a greener church. A process through the

Presbyterian USA to survey how energy efficient and how our program and uses are

environmentally supportive of a healthy world. The Council has agreed to pursue the self-

evaluation in 2016 and from that survey we will be able to discuss methods and timing for us

to proceed towards certification.

Sponsoring Parents Support Group – A monthly parents group meets at NLUC and we

provide space, child-care and a meal. This past year a number of family support programs

have been dropped by a Juneau NGO and our sponsorship was an effort to be certain this

critical support for families remained available.

Collaboration with Juneau People for Peace and Justice (JPPJ) - JPPJ meets weekly at

NLUC and we as a church generally and COCO specifically collaborates on many educational

and outreach actions. Of note:

o Muslim Exchange Students - Three students sponsored by the State Department are

placed with host families and enrolled in high school for a 10 month Juneau

experience. JPPJ coordinates and supports these amazing Muslim ambassadors as we

all learn to better understand and value their culture and gifts and they ours.

A NLUC family is serving as a host family for one of the exchange students.

o Never Again – A public gathering to remember the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and

Nagasaki and a call for total nuclear disarmament.

o Emanuel Jal – Internationally known hip-hop and rap peace activist was sponsored

(by a number of local organizations, including NLUC) for presentations in Juneau high

schools and a public performance. Emanuel was enthusiastically received by students

and his story of being a ―child soldier‖ and his struggles to survive and be successful

resonated with youth. There are follow-up efforts to build on Emanuele’s visit.

Programs we participate in and hope to emphasis in 2016 as energy allows, in addition to our

ongoing involvements:

Camp Champ - A four day summer camp for youth at risk and/or with incarcerated parents.

FASD Camp – A three day intense FASD training and week-long camp.

Prison re-entry programs.

Haven House sustainability.

Glory Hole fund raising.

Housing First – to be opened spring/summer 2017.

Promoting Juneau Refuge City status.

Promoting non-violent communication and demonstrations on peace and justice issues.

- KJ Metcalf and Melody Millard

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Native Ministries Committee

Mission Statement. The mission statement of the committee is:

―Celebrating and sharing the ministry, healing, unity, diversity, music, and languages of Alaska’s

First People.‖

Members. The committee members include Barbara Searls, Chair, Pattie Adkisson, Freda Westman,

KJ Metcalf, Jane Ginter (recording secretary), June Degnan, Lillian Austin, Clay Antioquia and

Pastor Phil Campbell. Meetings are open and other church members are welcome to attend meetings.

Tlingit Gospel Singers. NMC continues to support the ministry of the Tlingit Gospel Singers (TGS).

The congregation continues to sing "This is the Day" in Tlingit as part of the service (a

recommendation from the visioning of NLUC) and part of the mission of NMC.

The Tlingit Gospel Singers sing at community events and for the second year sang at the Glory Hole

annual memorial service officiated by Pastor Phil. TGS also sang at a Juneau Cooperative Church

Council Lenten Lunch. At the lunch, Pastor Phil spoke about the closing of the Memorial Church and

the institutional racism of the Presbyterian denomination that led to the closing. He apologized for

what happened and the Native Ministries Chair offered a response as is customary within the Tlingit

tradition. From this has grown a desire from Native Ministries for more history on what occurred.

TGS led Christmas Carols in Tlingit at the December 22 Cooperative Church Council Advent

Luncheon hosted by our church. As community interest in the Tlingit language expands, there will

be more opportunities for TGS to extend their influence beyond our current congregation.

Yakutat Presbyterian Church. We continue to provide support and encouragement for Yakutat

Presbyterian Church. In the summer of 2016 the Yakutat church was served by a student pastor from

Austin Presbyterian Seminary. Pastor Phil was the student’s site supervisor, communicating with her

regularly by phone. We will look for additional ways to partner with the Yakutat church in 2017.

In addition, NMC, working with the Yakutat church paid travel expenses for Rev. Paul Beran to

travel to Yakutat and preach two Sundays in 2016.

Methodist Women’s Conference. NMC paid travel expenses for June Degnan to attend the

Methodist Women’s Conference held in Wasilla, Alaska.

NMC Finance Report. NMC proposed a $50,000 budget to NLUC Council which was approved.

This included $25,000 for grants and $25,000 for NLUC programs.

The NMC received $17,424 from the Methodist Missionary Conference and expenses of $1,105 were

incurred in 2016.

The NMC ended 2016 with approximately $250,000.

Community Outreach. NMC explored options for bringing outside speakers to Juneau in 2016.

Although it did not happen in 2016, NMC is working on this for 2017.

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Church Building Usage. NLUC continues to open the church for meetings of Glacier Valley

ANS/ANB Camp 70. ANS Camp 2 and Douglas Indian Association have been holding meetings at

the church as well.

2017. NMC plans to meet and review the mission and goals of the committee, elect a chair and have

regularly scheduled meetings throughout the year.

Respectfully submitted,

Barbara Searls, Chair

Library Committee

The purpose of the church library is to be a valuable resource for our community, with books and

other materials that address faith, hope, and issues of contemporary life. It is meant to be a

welcoming place for members and community to wait for family/friends after church or meetings at

NLUC. Small groups also take advantage of this room.

The library committee provides the children’s books, crayons and coloring papers that are available in

baskets right outside the doors into the sanctuary for children to use during worship. I am happy to

report noticing children and youth enjoying these items throughout the week. The baskets are there

because we want the children to know that we think about them and they are an important part of our

community.

Thanks to those of you who have donated books to the library this year. Some books are also

purchased from Friends of the library and donated to the library. The Adult Sunday school and

Lenten study books are also available in the library. No need to check the books out. Just take them

and return when done.

If you are interested in helping care for our library please let Pastor Phil, Andi Story and/or Lorna

Kent know.

- Andi Story

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Community of Christian Women

In celebration of the success of the annual holiday bazaar held the previous November, the

Community of Christian Women convened a lively meeting in February to discuss various projects

that support women and children that could receive funding from bazaar proceeds. The women

agreed to spend $10,000 during 2016 with $8,000 allocated at the meeting, and designation of the

remaining $2,000 to be determined during the remainder of the year. Those programs receiving

funding during the February meeting are as follows:

Days for Girls

PET machine for a child

Youth mission trip to Costa Rica

Alaska Child and Family

Camp Champ

No More Malaria nets

Presbyterian Women Mission projects

United Methodist Women mission projects

In April we benefitted from presentations from June Degnan, founding President and Chair of the

board of Haven House, as well as from Mandy Cole, Deputy Director of AWARE. Ms. Degnan spoke

about the status of Haven House, detailing the months-long struggle to receive approval to operate by

the City and Borough of Juneau and the impact of the program on women released from

incarceration. Ms. Cole provided information about their new housing facility, called Kassei, for

women recovering from abusive home situations. Both of these groups have received donations from

CCW.

June Degnan and Melody Millard represented CCW at the Gathering of Presbyterian Women in

Wasilla in June. Along with participants from all areas of the Synod of Alaska Northwest, they

visited Presbyterian mission projects in the area including My House, Family Promise and Knik

House. CCW was pleased to help fund the trip north and provided Fred Meyer gift cards for these

mission homes.

In October, Marion Gotschall represented CCW at the annual gathering of United Methodist Women

in Anchorage. CCW provided a donation to support UMW programs

CCW ended the year with another successful Annual Holiday Bazaar in November. Many women,

and men, came together to produce product to sell, sorted and priced attic treasures and prepared

soup, bread and pie for lunch. It was a good year.

- Carol Barril

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Juneau Youth Ministry Cooperative

The Cooperative Youth Group, the young people of six congregations and the community, has been

hard at work this year, growing their hearts to serve the community and the world and growing into

their space they call ―home.‖ The youth room at Northern Light was envisioned by the young people,

and with a little help it now bears a big tree on the wall with their handprints, a hanging bookshelf,

and a community board. We still hope to get some more furniture and continue to make the space our

own but we are well on our way!

Two endeavors this year, in particular, have built relationships across boundaries and grown our

hearts for service: (1) the 2016 summer international mission to Strong Missions in Costa Rica, and

(2) the Interfaith Day of Service. (1) 7 youth, 1 junior counselor, and 2 adults traveled to Costa Rica

to serve with the people. We helped to build up the foundation of the Strong Missions Community

Center that will offer feeding programs, activities for children, and educational opportunities that will

help move against the systemic injustices that create poverty. We also served lunch to a community in

a very poor area and provided Vacation Bible School with three groups of children. Please see the

video made available at the church for more details on our team’s experience! (2) The Interfaith Day

of Service, on Alaska Day 2016, was initiated between our youth group and the Junior Spiritual

Empowerment Program that includes young people who identify as Baha’i , spiritual, and otherwise.

12 youth and over 6 adults participated in helping at Helping Hands, Feeding Juneau’s Future, and

AWARE. Temple Sukkat Shalom was invited but, due to the timing during their High Holy Days,

was unable to participate. They asked that they be invited to other interfaith events in the future.

From a director’s perspective, I am trying to build up a core of volunteers for Sunday gatherings, as

well as other activities. These volunteers are expected to lead parts of the gatherings and build

relationships of trust with the young people. I have also been having the churches participate in the

cooperative through contributions, whether that be through meals, finances, or otherwise. Future

goals include continuing to build the core of volunteers/adult sponsors and to dream about and put

into action ways that churches can feel involved in the cooperative effort for youth ministry.

- Melissa Engel

P.S. Thanks go to April Rezendes and Bob Coghill for being adult helpers for the youth group. They

have been assisting Melissa and have now stepped in to lead the group while Melissa is on maternity

leave.

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Pastor’s Report

The ministry of Northern Light United Church continues to be a source of illumination for its

members and for the Juneau community. We are a gathering place not only for our members but for

an ever expanding cross section of the city and borough. There is little that happens in Juneau with

regard to serving those in need, social justice advocacy, interfaith cooperation, fostering a welcoming

atmosphere, and supporting community betterment that does not involve our church. I am grateful to

have served among you for over six years.

For the past three years, our Church Council has overseen and implemented our ministry goals

(embracing diversity, serving the community and beyond, stewarding our resources, and promoting

learning, worship, fellowship, and growth) that were adopted in 2014. At this year’s annual meeting,

the congregation will have the opportunity to update and extend our work in these four areas. The

Council’s regular review of our goals has proven to be a good process that serves as an effective way

to turn our intentions into action, and I am glad we are continuing it. I am grateful for the oversight

Natalie Norberg has provided for the Council’s efforts.

These four areas are also a helpful way for me to reflect on our year together.

Embracing Diversity.

- As an extension of our More Light/Reconciling identity, the Church Council clarified our

congregational commitment to offer all rites and services of the church without regard to sexual

orientation. In particular, this means that I have the Council’s support for officiating at same gender

as well as heterosexual weddings, and that the sanctuary is available as a venue for all weddings.

- I spoke at a Borough Assembly meeting in support of the CBJ Equal Rights Ordinance.

- I was a speaker at the Transgender Day of Remembrance vigil at the University of Alaska Southeast

(UAS).

- I presented my research on the closing of Memorial Church and the institutional racism of the

Presbyterian Church at a Cooperative Church Council Lenten Lunch.

- I led a workshop on white racial socialization at the UAS Power and Privilege Symposium.

- I facilitated the discussion after one of the performances of Wrestling Jerusalem, a one person play

about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

- I wrote a ―My Turn‖ column for the Juneau Empire regarding national anthem protests and racial

justice.

Serving the Community and Beyond

Our church building continues to be well used for a wide array of community groups and events

including Mudrooms, Concerts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, 12 Step groups, Interfaith meetings and

services, ANS meetings, Family Promise and Haven House board meetings, Reentry Coalition

strategy sessions, Juneau People for Peace and Justice, Climate Action meetings, the Flats

Neighborhood Association, and much more. We continue to cook and serve summer lunch for

children, bag weekend food for elementary students during the school year, and cook twice a month

at the Glory Hole year round. Our Households with Children group filled ten five gallon bucket with

cleaning supplies that were shipped to flood ravaged areas down South.

33

This year, I concluded a three year term on the AWARE board. I continue to participate on the

steering committee of the Juneau Violence Prevention Coalition, and I have begun involvement with

the Male Engagement subcommittee. As a part of the prevention efforts, this fall I helped coach the I

toowú klatseen/Boys Run program at Mendenhall River Community School, and I have conducted

interviews with men about male involvement in domestic violence and sexual assault prevention.

I continue to participate in the Juneau Interfaith Council, I have supported the formation of the Juneau

affiliate of the climate change group, Interfaith Power and Light, I served on a Northwest Coast

Presbytery task force to develop new criteria for covenant mission partnerships, I am member of the

Nominating Committee and the Professional Ministries Unit of the Alaska United Methodist

Conference, and I was the field supervisor for an Austin Seminary student who pastored the Yakutat

Presbyterian Church this summer.

Stewarding Our Resources

In February, John Pugh and I attended an Alaska United Methodist sponsored stewardship training

that informed this year’s ―Celebrating Generosity‖ approach to our successful stewardship drive. Our

Finance Committee oversaw the effort, I wrote some of the interpretive materials, and John, June

Degnan, and Ginny Palmer spoke about generosity during November worship services. Financial

support for the core budget and special appeals remain exemplary, and many give freely of their time

and skill to further our church’s ministry. Thanks to all who so generously support our church!

Staff Parish Relations and Church Council continue to explore staffing needs for the church, and our

property committee continues to provide needed upkeep and improvement for our facilities. A change

that was made this fall that is going well is a move to contract with a custodial service for the

cleaning of building.

Fostering learning, worship, fellowship, and growth

Last spring’s Lenten study of Brian McLaren’s book, A New Kind of Christianity, gave participants

helpful, more progressive language for expressing their faith.

This fall we began using a lectionary based curriculum, Feasting on the Word, that ties our education

ministry together with our worship. It is being used by children and youth, and this spring, the adult

Bible class will also begin using the curriculum. The time of children’s education has shifted to the

latter portion of the worship hour – we worship together through the children’s time, and then

children go to their classes. This appears to be a well-received change.

Worship and special services are central to our church’s mission. I am grateful for the worship

leadership of many who sing, play, read, greet, usher, speak, share, and serve communion!

Participation remains strong but attendance has dipped to a weekly average of 91 worshippers. I have

been intentional in communicating with those whose attendance patterns have changed, and I have

learned of ongoing support and no disaffection from the church.

Regarding special services, I officiated at four weddings: Valerie Ni hEideain and Chuck Jenkins;

Yvonne Grate and Joelene Goldman; Rebekah Howard and Alex Coronel; Rachel Searls and

Jonathan Jeans. I baptized three brothers: Jake, Leo, and Daniel Brown. I officiated at memorial

services for five persons, Mark Canul, John Borbridge, Linda Borbridge, Kimberly Williams, and

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Gary Eddy. We give thanks for their lives, and also the life of church member Alfredo McKinley, and

we remember their families in prayer.

Our time of fellowship includes refreshments after worship during the school year, breakfast after

worship in the summer, a neighborhood cookout at the beginning of summer, and a picnic at Sandy

Beach near summer’s end. Thank you to all who cook, serve, and provide refreshment – you

strengthen the bonds of our community!

We began the year with 200 members and end with 202, in addition to many other friends of the

church – all of you enrich our common life! We lost Alfredo McKinley and Jon Borbridge to death,

and Rachel Sanders transferred to a church in North Carolina. Michele Thompson, Lori Posey,

Martha Mallot, Andrea Brown, and Matthew Nakamura joined in 2016.

I am grateful for all who serve our church and make ministry possible. I offer deep appreciation for

our staff: Christina Maddox who has been our Church Administrator for nine years, Melissa Engel

who has lead our youth group for four, J. Allan MacKinnon and Jacque Farnsworth our keyboard

musicians, and Olga Lipson our nursery attendant. I also thank Leonard Johnson whose eight years as

church custodian concluded as we shifted to a custodial service for church cleaning. I am also grateful

for the lay leadership, elected and otherwise, that guides our ministry with dedication and skill. The

Nominating Committee report lists elected leaders whose terms are concluding as well as those

whose service continues and begins. In particular, I thank Anne Standerwick for two years as church

moderator, and Jim Alter for 10 years as church treasurer. Gunalchéesh!

- Phil Campbell