2015 Annual Report

St. John’s Episcopal Church Beverly Farms

Table of Contents

Part 1 Leadership The Priest-in-Charge’s Report 2 The Curate’s Report 6 The Wardens’ Report 8 2015 Baptisms, Marriages, Confirmations 10

Part 2 Financial The Treasurer’s Report 11 The Stewardship Report 12 The Auction Report 13

Part 3 Worship The Lay Assistants Report 15 The Altar Guild Report 16 The Evening Prayer Report 18 The Flower Guild Report 18 The Acolytes Report 19 The Ushers Report 19

Part 4 Christian The Church School Report 20 Formation The Adult Education Report 22 The Confirmation Report 22 The Bible Study Group Report 22

Part 5 Music and Art The Organist and Music Director’s Report 23 The Concert Series Report 24 The Art Show Report 25

Part 6 Outreach The B-SAFE Report 26 and Mission The Community Shop Report 27 The Monday Night Suppers Report 28 The Outreach Committee Report 29

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Part 7 Inreach The Eucharistic Visitors Report 30 The Flower Delivery Report 30 Hospitality / Parish Life 31 The Newcomers Committee Report 31 The Young Family Committee Report 31 The Youth Group Report 31

Part 8 Amininistrative The Building and Grounds Report 32 Ministries The Communications/Marketing Report 33 The Delegates to the North Shore Deanery and Episcopal Convention Report 34 The Human Resources Committee Report 34 The Mission Discernment Committee Report 35 2015 In Memoriam 37

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1 Part One Leadership

The Priest-in-Charge’s Report

It is hard to believe I have been at St. John’s now for two and one half years! Time flies when you are having fun. The people and ministries of St. John’s continue to inspire me, from the leadership involvement of 45 - 50 people in worship every Sunday morning, to the dedicated confirmation teachers, to the passion for our new ministry to Syrian refugees, and dozens of other ministries as well!

Human Resources

September 2015 marked the first time since my arrival as your Priest-in-Charge that we have had a full complement of staff. Our curate, Stephen Scarff was ordained to the priesthood allowing us the flexibility of having two priests on staff for the first time in three years. Then with the departure of Brink in April, we were pleased to hire Priscilla Walter as our interim organist, while we conducted a nationwide search. In September, the choir and I were delighted to hire Jeremy Bruns as our new Organist and Choir Director. The choir has grown under his leadership. Thanks to the hard work and leadership of the HR team, we have created staff contracts and annual reviews for most of the staff.

Worship

During 2015 we had 7 baptisms, 1 confirmation, 1 wedding, and 14 funerals. The low number of confirmations is due to the class now being two years long. The number of confirmands will return to normal next year as the schedule catches up. We’ve also had new chalicists, readers, and prayer leaders join our ranks, and of course the fabulous acolytes helping make worship more glorious!

Adult Education

As more staff positions have been filled, I have had more time to devote to new adult education ministries. During January, February, and March most every Sunday was devoted to one of the outreach ministries served by the Community Shop or the people of St. John’s. Speakers shared stories about the good being done on the North Shore and how we might be involved. Many thanks to all who recommended and recruited speakers.

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We were also blessed by the gifted scholar and teacher Nate Ramsayer who offered two series of classes this year, one in the spring entitled, “Historical Context of Ancient Israelite Scripture,” and one in the fall on “Biblical Archeology.”

It was fascinating to learn about the work and mission of our own Christopher Sherrill at his presentation on “Rebels, Radicals & Reformers,” learn about the ministry of the Cathedral from Dean Jep Streit, and have an all-parish meeting and discussion on “A Christian Response to Isis.”

I also led two Wednesday afternoon book groups – one in the spring where we read and discussed a Lenten book of devotions entitled “Get Over Yourself; God’s Here!,” and another in the fall where we read and discussed Anne Lamott’s book “Help, Thanks, Wow.”

Our evening educational events included an evening presentation and dinner with men from Riverhouse who shared with us what it was like to be homeless, as well as several evenings of “Soup and Cinema.” Thanks to Beryl Cox and Deamie Cabot for the leadership of this new ministry, and to all who have shared a movie with us. Thanks to Toby and Stella Mae Seamans for their passion and leadership to alleviate homelessness.

Growing edges

The Spirit is alive and well at St. John’s, yet we still have some growing edges. Like most churches these days, Sunday attendance is flat and Church School attendance is in decline. We are actively addressing these issues, and are looking to create a Christian Education Committee. The Vestry will also be working on these issues. In addition, we need some folks to step up to fill the leadership for the following ministries: “Communication/marketing,” “Inreach,” and “Hospitality/Parish Life.” If you think you might be interested in taking on one of these ministries, or have questions, please let me know.

Ordination

We were blessed and delighted with the ordination to the priesthood of our Curate, the Rev. Stephen Scarff in May. His service and celebration were a highlight of the spring.

Children’s Ministry

With Stephen’s ordination, visiting the children’s classrooms became a possibility in the fall. Stephen and I take turns, whoever is not preaching, spending the first half of the service downstairs with the children and teachers. It is a gift for me to know more fully the extraordinary work that is being done for our children by the dedicated Church School teachers, as well as getting to know the spirit and gifts of our children.

Newcomer’s Ministry

I am thrilled with the ministry of Helen Lewis and Miranda Hodgkins who have formed the core of our Newcomer’s ministry. We have new welcome cards in the pews, have identified recent newcomers, and had our first successful Newcomer’s reception last month.

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Evening Prayer

After a number of years, Evening Prayer is taking a break. Many thanks to Beryl Cox for her leadership of this important ministry, and to all those dedicated souls who have ensured daily communal worship of God at St. John’s. If anyone else would like to step up to lead Evening Prayer in the future, please let me know.

Vestry and Wardens

As always, I am grateful for the service and ministry of our Vestry and Wardens. Their leadership guides the parish and ensures that the ship is stable so that the gospel may be proclaimed. I offer special thanks to our outgoing Vestry members: Ivy George, Sarah Kaull, Sean Kelly, Anita Schwechheimer-Blakney, and Mark Young. And of course deepest gratitude and awe go to our outgoing Senior Warden Pamela Morss! With her upbeat nature, good humor, can-do attitude, larger vision, and gift with people, this parish was successfully brought through some challenging years. Her presence continues to bless us.

What is Church?

While the definition of “church” is something we all take for granted, the reality is we all have different interpretations of what church is and what it is used for. I thought it important to take this opportunity to share my understanding.

Church is a collection of imperfect people working together to connect with and worship the Divine, integrating that spiritual wisdom into themselves and their actions, and who then share that compassion, love, and wisdom beyond their walls. Clergy are not hired to do ministry on behalf those who attend, rather, we are there to create a stable framework (which includes worship) and guidance for the laity to do their ministry, both in and outside the church.

Church is not a building, nor is it the clergy alone. Church is the people, otherwise known as the “Body of Christ.”

There is a famous expression that the church is to both “comfort the afflicted” and “afflict the comfortable.” As it says in Eucharist Prayer C in the Prayer book, “deliver us from the presumption of coming to this Table for solace only, and not for strength; for pardon only, and not for renewal. Let the grace of this Holy Communion make us one body, one spirit in Christ, that we may worthily serve the world in his name.” We all serve.

Of course a priest is responsible for caring pastorally for a congregation, and it is my joy and privilege to do so, but everyone else has this responsibility as well. Of course a priest is to provide leadership and visioning, but more often it is on the macro level rather than on the micro level, and usually in conjunction with the Vestry.

That is why I am constantly impressed with the ministries, commitment, and faith of the members of St. John’s! Many of you take seriously your baptismal vows to worship, love, and spread the Kingdom. You are Jesus’ hands and feet in the world.

We don’t come to church to become moral people. That is possible outside of church. We are not here

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to become good citizens. The State can take care of that. We are not here to get our pastoral needs met, although when needed, we do. We are not here to avoid going to hell when we die, humanity is quite capable of creating hell all on our own in this life. Church is for deepening our relationship with God.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is about turning your world upside down and orienting it towards God in Christ. It is about living as a revolutionary in a broken world. It’s not about milquetoast. It’s about red meat. It’s about loving your neighbor, even the ones who aren’t lovable; even the ones who are sinful.

Most importantly Church is about loving and worshipping God. The Holy Trinity is the source of all and deserving of our daily prayers, praise, and thanks. We are not the center of our lives. Money is not the center of our lives. Good morality is not the center of our lives. Not even the Bible is the center of our lives.

God in Christ is the center. All else should point towards God.

As Christians we come to church and worship God and do the moral thing not because it’s “nice,” and not because it’s how we get to heaven, but because our love for God is so passionate that it overwhelms us and we cannot do otherwise.

The people of St. John’s are extraordinary not because you are smart, or talented, or work to make the world better, or are nice people, and you are all of these things. You are extraordinary because by virtue of regularly attending this parish, and striving to live in love, no matter how imperfectly, along with your imperfect Priest in Charge, you are saying a big YES to God in Christ. I am honored to walk this journey with you.

Faithfully yours,

The Rev. Stephanie Chase BradburyPriest-in-Charge

The Curate’s Report

What an incredible past year has been for me at St. John’s. I started off 2015 serving as your Deacon and almost nine months ago ordained to the Priesthood here at St John’s. It was a privilege to be ordained in the place I have been serving and to have Bishop William Love from my sponsoring Diocese of Albany present at this monumental event in my life—my gratitude to Bishop Allan Gates for extending the invitation to my Bishop. I am most grateful to Stephanie and the people of St. John’s who helped make this happen for me and make the ordination a special moment, my family, the community and the parish—it was a true celebration.

Using resources set aside for continuing education, I availed myself to the “goings on” at The Episcopal Church’s 78th General Convention held in Salt Lake City, Utah. Being a witness to the activities

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surrounding the election of our new Presiding Bishop Michael Curry and in general learning how the Episcopal Church makes sausage was illuminating. It was also a time for me to connect with clergy and the laity of the church involved in ministry outside the conventional church confines—granting me a better understanding of what is going on in the mission field of the church in places like Haiti and in the Diocese of Jerusalem. I met inspiring people that included a priest from Navajo Land where our Youth from St. John’s will be traveling to this summer.

Over the summer I also had the opportunity to serve as a Chaplain at the Barbara C. Harris Camp in New Hampshire where the Diocese of Massachusetts runs their summer camp. I had a chance to lead worship and Bible study time as well as take part in the activities of the camp, such as helping with canoeing and archery. I had more fun than the young people did, I think, and I ate like a beast. I hope in time that our young people at St John’s will make their way to the camp in the summer to enjoy not only the outdoors but also learn the fruits of fellowship with their fellow Episcopalians.

I’m pleased that we have a dedicated and thoughtful group of Acolytes serving at our 10am service and on special occasions. Having Acolytes involved in worship has deepened the experience for many and has proved an instructive way for our youth to learn about their faith. Service to others is a critical element to living out our faith in Christ. Acolyte training and participation in worship has become a central and important part of the confirmation class program. A couple of our class members have even volunteered to read at Sunday morning services. We have had acolytes at every service since the end of September. In time the goal is to have an ongoing Acolyte program that has life beyond the Confirmation class years. As the struggles of a two-year program are still being worked out, our class has grown to 21 smart and curious registered confirmands—twelve of whom might be confirmed in 2016. In addition, we have three parent teachers in Joe Curreri, Glenn Blakney and Tracy Woods. Our dear friend Jim Crossan, who was an active participant in the past, has retired from his duties and will be missed. Ms. Sarah Polese-Reineman has stepped in to shoulder some of his responsibilities. Parents also participate through providing dinner for each session and this has fostered greater community among the youth and among their parents. This past October we more than doubled the numbers that participated at the City Reach Overnight where we learned about the plight of the homeless in Boston, firsthand.

An early thought of my own was that a “Youth Group” could be grown from the Confirmation class population. Although this has not worked out the way I had envisioned, we have had some traction and have the nascent beginnings of a Youth Community interested in getting together for activities and service opportunities. This past fall we had a successful canoe outing on the Ipswich River, a visit to Connor’s Farm for their haunted corn maze, and then in December a visit to Herrick House to Christmas Carol to the residents of this facility. In Tanzania they would say this community is growing poly, poly, Swahili for slowly, slowly. As this community grows it will take the dedication and commitment from the parent community to make this a reality, but I am pleased at the direction we are going.

Under the banner of “Mission” and “Youth” the parish will be traveling to Navajo Land in northwest New Mexico. Outside of the parish responding to the hurricane devastation on our Gulf Coast a few years ago, this is the first planned mission trip for the community of St. John’s. We plan on assisting the

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Episcopal Community in Farmington, NM, in conjunction with St. John’s Gloucester to paint and make beautiful several of their church campus buildings, including their church. This trip is meant to be a chance to deepen faith, expose our youth to the culture of this region and transform the understanding of what it means to walk the Christian life.

In terms of other mission and outreach opportunities, we continue to impact the great St John’s community through the generous donations to local charities involved in helping those in need. Our Community Shop volunteers do amazing and generous work, day in and day out. The rewards of their labors are what is shared/distributed to these various organizations, and we continue to have crack leadership in this area with Louise Huntoon stepping down after years of dedicated service and with Michelle Curreri stepping up to take the helm. In addition, a few hearty souls were game to venture over to Esperanza School in Lawrence to paint and spruce up their school building. We carry on in collecting food items for Beverly Bootstraps as well as warm clothing for City Reach. Monday Night Suppers continuously bring out a robust number of volunteers to cook and serve dozens in need of sustenance in our community.

I have helped begin a monthly worship service at Herrick House along with Alice Wright in Beverly. On average we have had a dozen residents present at these Eucharistic services. It has been an opportunity to bring the light of Christ to not only Episcopalians but other religious traditions. Along with Thursday morning Eucharist I find these more intimate services to be spiritually rewarding for all.

Finally, Pastoral duties continue to be a glorious challenge and the best part of my responsibilities. Visiting the people of this parish and community brings me the greatest satisfaction and joy. Not always an easy responsibility, I have been privileged to be with people and their families during sacred times. I have learned a great deal about myself but most of all about you during my visits, and I feel blessed. I wish I could do more on this front.

I continue to enjoy and live fully into my new and increased duties as a priest, and I have enjoyed and benefited from the parish assisting me and mentoring me on my journey. I look forward to this new year of challenges and having your support. Together and with God we can change the world through bringing the light of Christ to our neighbors.

Faithfully submitted,

Stephen Scarff Curate

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The Wardens’ Report

It was a pleasure to see St. John’s spread its wings and enthusiastically expand in areas near and dear to everyone’s heart. Everywhere we turned, something new and different was happening, enriching the life of the parish. We continued to support Priest-In-Charge Rev. Stephanie Chase Bradbury’s work strength-ening the St. John’s operations and ministries, and Rev. Stephen Scarff’s efforts with outreach and youth.

Where to start? This year saw the establishment of an Acolyte corps (so great to see on Sunday mornings), the establishment of a Newcomers Group (thanks to Miranda Hodgkins and others), new leadership on the Flower Guild from Farrell Cosmas.

We were thrilled with the arrival of our new Music Director Jeremy Bruns who fills the sanctuary with glorious music every Sunday. While keeping to certain traditions, Jeremy is also eager to bring forth some new programming. We are most grateful to Walter Stone, Jodi Klein, Ollie Klein, Sarah Snyder, and Bob Wilcutt for organizing and carrying out a splendid search. We are grateful for the way the music ministry enhances the worship experience each and every week.

We are also pleased to tell you about some facility improvements. The front trees and bushes got a trim and shaping, and thanks to the diligent efforts of Parish Administrator Rob Ginn, who located a very tal-ented sound system technician, we now have a properly balanced sound system, wireless microphones for clergy, and the ability to record – and distribute sermons. We can’t thank Rob enough!

St. John’s is most grateful for the generous gift from the Loring Family that will enable us to go forward with some long-overdue improvements to the front garden and façade. In 2016, there will be new signage, lighting, and a few more surprises intended to enhance the beauty of our grounds so that they continue to convey our welcoming and generous spirit.

We want to express our special gratitude to many involved in Outreach, including Community Shop, Monday Night Suppers, B-Safe, Beverly Boot Straps, the HAWC Walk, and River House, and more recently helping Syrian refugees with food and clothing donations through NuDay Syria. This idea came out of a Diocesan workshop – before we knew it, many in the parish were collecting and sorting clothes. This is just the latest example of what often happens at St. John’s – somebody gets an idea, is moved to action, and before long the whole parish is involved. We are especially thankful to Stephanie for her theo-logical guidance and reflection. She reminded us while she helped sort and package donations that such missions go beyond merely “being kind,” they are manifestations of our duty as Christians, and we at St. John’s are committed to that duty in a very special way.

We are deeply grateful to the Mission Discernment Committee (MDC), which has ushered us through the process of faithfully examining who and what we are - and what we see as our mission as Christians. The MDC, led by Bob Jones and Jeannie McIntyre, met over a dozen times to assess the parish, gather valu-able input from parishioners, and publish conclusions and findings. We are indebted to the dedicated and talented committee consisting of Paul Bonner, Barbara Braver, Carroll Clark Lee Herter, Sarah Kaull,

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Evan Randolph, Curtis Vouwie, Lia Wainwright, and Kelly Zaval. We look forward to the knowledge they will bring to all of us about what the parish wants and needs.

Lastly, we want to thank some very dedicated vestry members who retired: Anita Blakney, Ivy George, Sarah Kaull, Sean Kelly, and Mark Young. You gave generously of your talents, time and treasure. You will be missed on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, but be remembered for your indelible contributions and commitment. It was our pleasure to serve with you and learn from your example all the way along our journey together.

Pam MorssSenior Warden

Steve MacKinnon Junior Warden

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2015 Baptisms Sarah Elizabeth Rowan Osborne Lucy Evans Steck Luke Benjamin Adams Miles Lawrence Crocker Joshua Denney Deck Raymond Conwell Deck Louisa Jane Hooper

2015 Weddings Peter Townsend and Christina Kinder

2015 Confirmations Madeline Briggs Potter

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2 Part Two Financial

The Treasurer’s Report

Background

St John’s Parish derives its operating funding primarily from Pledge Commitments but its budget is also supplemented by receipts from Loose Plate Collection, Designated Gifts, Rent, Special Events, Interest Income, and earnings from Endowment assets. Of these sources, 2015 Pledge contributions were approx-imately $550,000 and accounted for 77% of all receipts.

The parish’s expenses are largely fixed items over which the parish has minimal control. Fixed expenses in 2015 accounted for approximately 94% of all expenses and consisted of Staff Costs – salary, insurance benefits, payroll taxes, etc. (64%), Office and Building and Grounds expenses – electricity, heat, phones, building insurance, etc. (19%), and Diocesan Assessment (11%).

Activity and Analysis:

St. John’s traditional budgeting practice was one of determining expenses and then working, at times with prayer and on faith, to offset those expenses with adequate pledge and plate contributions.

Beginning in 2013 the Wardens and the Vestry decided to adopt a more business-like policy of presenting a balanced budget to the Parish and, if necessary, trimming expenses to what would be necessary to be offset by actual monies received. The Finance Committee, which in 2015 was chaired by Sarah Kaull and whose members included Rev. Stephanie Bradbury, Rev. Stephen Scarff, Pam Morss, Steve MacKinnon, Mary Koop, Alan Braver, and I, met to assemble a proposed budget, submit it to the Vestry for it approv-al, and then to monitor performance. The budget was approved at the January 2015 vestry meeting and went without amendment throughout the year.

Subsequent to the implementation of the 2015 budget, circumstances experienced with office staffing, blizzards, the unanticipated replacement of the building’s sewage pumps, and other office expenditures necessitated a review of the budget midyear. However, because of a successful Stewardship appeal in the fall of 2014 and the subsequent timely receipt of those pledges it was advised and decided not to amend

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the budget at that time. Further, because of the extraordinary snow removal expenses incurred, St. John’s qualified for and benefited from a grant that the diocese offered to partially offset such expenses.

Because of the events and circumstances mentioned above I anticipate that when we close the books for 2015 we may experience expenditures exceeding receipts by approximately $3,500. Given that the budget approved 2015 was set forth at approximately $700,000 this represents a deviation of one half of one percent (1/2%). My personal congratulations and thanks to all that made this happen!

On the matter of endowment performance and, while 4th quarter statements are still outstanding, St. John’s did not benefit from the robust market as it did last year (2014). Certainly the Loring gift has beneficiated the funding of the operating account through interest earnings but market losses have been experienced which are reflected on the balance sheet statement.

2016 Budget

The Finance Committee reconvened in November to review year-to-date 2015 receipts and expenses and to set forth a proposed 2016 budget to the Vestry for its approval. The proposed budget (provided as a separate handout) was diligently prepared and reviewed by the Finance Committee and was approved by the Vestry at its December meeting. The 2016 budget anticipates continued expense control while provid-ing sufficient funds for maintaining a fully staffed office and ministry growth opportunities.

Summary

Your Vestry has continued to fulfilled its commitment to set forth a substantially balance budget for 2015 and, despite uncertainties inherent in financial planning, office staffing matters, and other challenges, the year ended with a minor unbalance of receipts to expenses.

I believe that St. John’s enjoys a solid financial foundation and remains well-positioned to support contin-ued growth with new families, ministries, and programs into 2016.

Respectfully submitted,

Joseph D. Malek Treasurer

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The Stewardship Report

Before anything else, I would like to thank my fellow members of the stewardship committee for their help and encouragement.

This year’s stewardship campaign somewhat broke precedent with the past. Our goal was to give the par-ish a greater understanding of the importance of pledge income to our overall budget; 83% of our total income comes from pledging. Toward this end, we decided to send two letters. One was from Stephanie, our Priest-in-Charge, and addressed the theology of giving. The second was from me and attempted to give greater insight into the importance of pledge income and the need for more broadly-based giving. We are still overly dependent on a small number of generous donors, and for our long-term financial health, we must continue to work on broadening our base.

An indication of how well people heard and responded to this year’s message is that year-end 2015 pledge received are up 11% compared to 2014. As of January 7, we had received $480,305 from 155 parish-ioners. We have yet to contact 96 parishioners who pledged in either 2014 or 2015. These additional pledges, were they all to come in at their previous level, would add an additional $147,618.

I would not want to jinx the final result, but indications are that this will be a banner year for us and our common mission and ministry.

Respectfully submitted,

Alan Braver Stewardship Chairperson

The Auction Report

Thanks to many volunteers and helping hands, the 2015 Saint John’s Church auction was once again, a big success. The auction was held at Brookwood School who kindly donated their space to us for the event. We were able to transform the school meeting house into a festive party room with live music, won-derful decorations and a delicious dinner. The theme was the roaring twenties and everyone got into the spirit of the evening and came dressed for the occasion in all kinds of 20’s finery.

We netted $34,362 with an additional $7,500 raised toward the cost of redoing the beautiful floors in the church sanctuary. We had approximately 150 people attend with 10 presold tables which was a huge help in defraying the upfront costs of the auction.

We sold approximately 130 raffle tickets at a cost of $100 apiece which was a big help in adding to our

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bottom line. Thanks to all those who contributed items to both the live and the silent auctions. Without your generosity, we would not have had the wonderful bidding that we did.

Our thanks go to those who donated and attended, those who came and set up, who helped with decorat-ing, check in and out and clean up, those who helped with the invitation, keeping track of expenses, rsvps and just keeping us all organized. We could never have the auction without all those who pitched in so generously with their time and donations.

Many hands make light work and also a lot of fun. Please consider coming out to help when we have our next auction. You will find it rewarding and a wonderful way to meet other people at church whom you may not have already met.

Jodie Stevenson For the Auction Committee

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3 Part Three Worship

The Lay Assistants Report

To ALL the ministers at St. John’s:

Yes, we are ALL ministers. We share the love of God. We share the joy and bounty of God’s grace. We pray and carry our prayers into the world. We greet others with warmth and acceptance. We pass the Peace of God. We receive our God-given blessings and use them in God’s praise. In so many ways, God’s Grace radiates through us. Might there be other ways for us to act as ministers within our St. John’s fami-ly?

Since last year’s report, many parishioners have responded by calling/stopping by the office or by answer-ing last minute pleas to fill in whatever holes we have for that week’s services. Realizing that not everyone is comfortable checking the computer site regularly... and that many of us can’t always plan ahead... we urge those who can to sign up whenever they can fill holes in the schedule so last-minute phone calls be-come unnecessary.

AS ALWAYS, WE WELCOME MORE PARTICIPANTS.

Greeters welcome each parishioner before services All you need to do is arrive about 20 minutes before each service, stand at the door, hand out service programs, and smile.

Acolytes attend to the candles at both altars before and after each service and carry the cross to lead both processional and recessional. We are working to build up our acolyte corps.

Lectors and Prayer Leaders include each of our voices in the service. Our voices vary. Our interpreta-tions vary. These variations help us all to understand both lessons and prayers more fully.

Vergers lead the processional and recessional and assist with the logistics of the service andare invaluable for their steadfast presence.

Chalice Bearers serve the wine to others at the rail, an act which quite literally connects us to God’s love and to one another. While passing the chalice may sound intimidating, we have Joe Malek or several other

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long-time chalice bearers to explain the simple procedure. Depending on the season, at each 8 o’clock service we need one chalice bearer. Currently, we have 3 steady chalice bearers, 2 more on hand. At the 10, again depending on the season, we have 15-20 chalice bearers, 3 chalice bearers needed per service, 2 for the high altar, 1 for the chantry.

Eucharistic Visitors take home communion to parishioners unable to come to church.

Finally, Coffee Hour Hosts welcome parishioners after the service, feeding both body and soul. The sign-up sheet is at the entrance to Celebration Hall. We ALWAYS need coffee hour hosts.

Lest we consider ourselves “unworthy,” remember that’s our judgment, not God’s. God considers each of us worthy to serve however we are called. If you hear God calling you to any of these essential ministries, please sign up or call the parish to offer your service to God’s service.

Thank you.

Penny Randolph For the Lay Assistants

The Altar Guild Report

The Altar Guild prepares the church for two services each Sunday, for holidays, weddings and funerals. There are 16 regular active members including many committed women, men and a young man. Fortu-nately we have added 2 new members during 2015. Members meet at the church over coffee three times a year to plan for the following 4 months. Stephanie and a verger usually attend.

Many thanks to Lee Herter who with the help of Polly Townsend and her friend Deli care for the Fair Linens. Julie Johnson washes and irons all the small linens every week except during a couple of months in the summer when Lee and Nannie Winslow help out. What would we all do without Terry Dow who orders all the wine, wafers, candles and other supplies needed. The job of filling the candles at least once a week falls to Terry, Lee and Ellie Wadsworth. Phoebe Coues has been our treasurer for many years. Thank you.

The Altar Guild is a very strong ministry always ready to help in any way possible. However, there are many times after weddings or funerals when no one is available to close the altars. Many times during the summer months when members may be on vacation or attending Emmanuel in Manchester, there is no one available to clean up after the 8:00 service and set up for the 9:30. Any suggestions are welcomed and needed.

Our wish list is always the same from year to year: men, women, young men and young women are

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needed to support and refresh this ministry. Training and support is available. Enrich your life with some peaceful moments setting God’s table in the peace and beauty of our lovely church.Respectfully,

Carroll Clark Secretary of the Altar Guild

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The Evening Prayer Report

Evening Prayer held its last service on Thursday, January 14. This spiritual practice has been a great gift to those of us who have been able to participate. However so few people are able to come at 5:30pm – a truly difficult time of day – that it seems wisest to invest our energies in other service to this beloved community. As in the past the Chapel will remain open for prayer and meditation from 9am 5pm, Tuesday – Friday, and some of us Evening Prayer people may continue to come for prayer at day’s end. We have developed a number of prayer resources to supplement the Book of Common Prayer, and will make these available to the Parish via a link on St. John’s Homepage. We hope that a new daily or weekly prayer or meditation group might form at a time convenient for more members of the parish. Such a group might include members of Tom Peltz‘ former meditation group. Infinite thanks to our Evening Prayer leaders over the past three years. They are Kit Graham, Gregg Whyte, Dotty Ryan, Geoff Pope, Joe Malek, and Linda McDonough.

Beryl Cox For the Evening Prayer Worshipers

The Flower Guild Report

The Flower Guild is a lay ministry that creates flower arrangements each week to enhance worship at SJC. Many Sundays, families give the flowers at the Altar and in the Chantry in memory of loved ones. A wreath-making workshop for families and children marks the beginning of Advent. At Christmas and Easter, our guild members fill the church with abundant arrangements and potted plants, made possible by memorial contributions from the congregation.

In October, the chair retired and I was appointed. We warmly welcome new members. Anyone who loves God’s glorious flowers is more than welcome to join us, no previous experience required, just enthusiasm. We also gratefully accept donations to remember loved ones or to celebrate and give thanksgiving for the birth of a child, a marriage, a graduation or any other reason to rejoice.

I’m eager to talk to anyone about membership or donations. My phone is (978) 524-4139; email farrellfc@aol.com.

Farrell Cosmas Flower Guild Chairperson

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The Acolytes Report - see Curate’s Report

The Ushers Report

Church ushers help with the smooth running of the Sunday morning services. Duties include greeting people as they arrive, assisting people with special needs, collecting the offering, and directing parishioners during communion. In case of an emergency, the ushers will take the lead in getting people to safety in an orderly manner. Ushers are the “face” of the church, the first ones that people see when they arrive and the last ones they see as they leave.

We are fortunate to have many volunteers at both the 8:00 and 10:00 services who act as ushers. A thank you goes to Evan Randolph, Ollie Cook, Tom Larson, and Tim Ingraham for their help at 10:00. Our youngest usher, Gabriel Klein, deserves special thanks for his help during the collection of the offering and as our “Chief bell-ringer”!

Anyone interested in serving as an usher should contact Curtis Vouwie at cvouwie@gmail.com. All are welcome to join in this important ministry!

Curtis VouwieHead Usher

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4 Part Four Christian Formation

The Church School Report

The goal of the Church School is to create a place where children can come closer to God. We strive to help children feel comfortable, loved, and valued at church, to teach them about the roots of our faith, and prepare them for active participation in the community of faith and worship.

Enrollment: January-June 2015: 58 families registered with 114 children from birth-7th Grade *Since then: 2 families (including 3 children) have moved and 7 families (including 18 children) have aged out.September-December 2015: 39 families with 81 children registered (49 families with 93 children were eligible to register)

• Highest Attendance (January-December 2015): March 29th Palm Sunday with 49 children and September 20th and December 6th each with 34 children

• Lowest Attendance (January-December 2015): February 1st with 3 children and March 1st and March 8th each with 6 children (severe weather a factor)

• Average since September: 30 children each Sunday• 27 Teachers who rotate: 27 total includes Nursery Leaders, Lead Teachers, and Assistants

Meeting Times: Regular Church School classes meet every Sunday during the 10:00 a.m. Service Septem-ber – June1st, exceptions are Family Service Sundays (approximately 5 per year), and Holiday Weekends.

Our Programs:

The Nursery is open Sundays year-round from 9:30-11:15 (or when the 10:00 a.m. service ends) and staffed by a paid Nursery Leader, an Assistant and/or a volunteer Teen Helper.*2 of our Nursery Leaders have been with us for over 6 years The Kingdom Preschool (ages 3-5):

2 Lead Teachers, 3 Assistants1 Lead Teacher and 1 Assistant are scheduled for each classCurriculum: Play… and teacher-created, developmentally appropriate Bible Stories, Art and Music. *King-

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dom Preschool children remain in the classroom for the entire 10:00 a.m. Service.

Godly Play Program:

Grades K/1, Grades 2/3, Grades 4/53 Classrooms: 8 Lead Teachers (GP Storytellers)9 Assistants (GP Doorkeepers)1 Storyteller, 1 Doorkeeper scheduled for each classCurriculum: Godly Play, developed by Jerome Berryman*K/1 Children remain in the classroom for the entire 10:00 a.m. Service. Grades 2/3 and older come to church for communion.

“Making it Real and Relevant” - lectionary based

Grades 6/73 Lead Teachers, 4 Assistants1 Lead Teacher, 1 Assistant scheduled for each class.

“Winter Session”

“Winter Session” which was introduced in February of 2014 was an enormous success. Because of its popularity “Winter Session” continued as part of our 2015 Winter Curriculum offering three different workshops to rotate through the different age groups (K-5) on each of the Sundays (February 1st through March 15th). The theme of the workshops was “The Miracles of Jesus” and included “Lego My Bible”, creating Japanese fish prints (called ‘Gyotaku’), making books, and baking “Altar Bread” from a recipe shared by our Priest-in-Charge, Stephanie Chase Bradbury.

Sixth graders through twelfth graders had their own unique Art Program. After selecting the theme “What We Can Do To Contribute” they inspired each other’s creativity as they decorated more of the ceiling tiles in the 6/7 classroom. Adult staff provided guidance, support, and oversight for all aspects of the process of this faith based cooperative and community building experience.

Kingdom Preschool continued in its regular format.

Other Church School Activities and Responsibilities:

• Teacher Recruitment, Training & CORI• Management of the physical classrooms, materials, and Curriculum• Assist with Family Service Planning• Bulletin Board for church school• Church School Registration• Welcome and Track New Families• Parent Communication, Church School Emails & Mailings• Organization of Children’s Activities and providing childcare as needed for Parish Dinners and

meetings• *Christmas Community Outreach (Beverly Children’s Learning Center)• **Christmas Pageants (Traditional 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. “Pick Up” Pageants)

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*Thank you so much to our Families for your support and participation all during the year and to the Members of the Parish as a whole for your generosity during the Christmas Season; your contributions to “The Giving Tree” were greatly appreciated.**We hope that you and your family were able to enjoy our annual Christmas Eve Pageants. They were memorably heartwarm-ing and wonderful thanks to everyone involved!

Donna HingstonChurch School Director

The Adult Education Report- see Priest-in-Charge’s Report

The Confirmation Class Report- see Curate’s Report

The Bible Study Group Report

Bible Study has been a regular part of the church’s Christian formation for the past eleven years. It is a self-led journey through selected book of the bible relying on the active participation of each group member. There is a core group of attendees as well as a group that is interested in each particular book. The group meets in the library on the 1st and 2nd Mondays of each month at 7:00 pm.

From January of 2015 until the beginning of June the group looked at the Luke. After a break for the summer, the group decided they would like to take a closer look at the book of Acts. The group has also discussed some of the multiple interpretations and translations available.

The group is open to all and welcomes new members.

Submitted by,

James Crossan Bible Study Group Leader

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5 Part Five Music and Art

The Organist and Music Director’s Report

This report will be limited, as I only began my work as Organist and Music Director on September 15, 2015. The choir season began immediately, with a good sense of dedication and commitment. We gained new and returning regular members, and also brought in several new occasional singers. Special services included the Advent Lessons and Carols Service on Sunday, December 6 at 4pm, as well as the Blue Christmas Service on Thursday, December 17 at 7pm. We concluded the Christmas Season with a Festival Eucharist on January 6, 2016, The Epiphany of Our Lord Jesus Christ; at this service, we pre-miered The Beverly Farms Mass by Nicholas White, a new setting which had previously been commis-sioned by members of the choir and parish. Nick joined us for this festive service, as did six guest singers from the choir of Christ Church in Hamilton and Wenham (including Jack Russell, their Organist and Choirmaster). Between mid-September and January 6 our choir prepared approximately 56 anthems and psalms, in addition to the new service music; many of these anthems were new to the choir, and we continue to enjoy being both busy and challenged.

Choir attendance can be spotty and sometimes unpredictable; since mid-September attendance has varied between 11 and 22 singers. That being said, we have not yet had to change or cancel any planned music at the last minute, knock on wood! I am grateful to all the members of the choir for offering their time, dedication and talents. Those singing either regularly or on an occasional basis since mid-September have been: Clark Baxter, Paul Bonner, Pam Brislin, Joan Buchanan, Gail Campbell, Beryl Cox, Martha Crain, Lucy Sprague Frederiksen, Melissa Glaister, Emily Goodberg, Peter Hoyt, Joanie Ingraham, Johanna Hoyt Kimball, Susie Kinder, Oliver Klein, David McCue, David Moss, Mimi Moss, Dwight Porter, Nate Ramsayer, Dotty Ryan, Sarah Snyder, Catherine Spanu, Giovanni Spanu, Walter Stone, Jim Thompson, Meredith Tufts, Connor Vigeant, Priscilla Walter, and Bob Willcutt. I am also grateful to Gail Campbell for serving as the choir librarian, and to the mystery Santa Claus who brought us 25 brand new black choir folders!

St. John’s Concert Series presented the 2nd South Carolina String Band to a large and enthusiastic audience on Sunday, October 18 at 4pm. The 2nd South Carolina String Band is a band of Civil War re-enactors who recreate American popular music of the 1820s to 1860s with authentic instruments and

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in period style. Members of the concert series committee met not long after that to begin discussions of future events. The series also presented the New England Gospel Ensemble in February, the Bush Broth-ers piano-organ duo in March, and The Boston Cecilia in April.

Additionally, a small children’s choir provided added interest to the Christmas Eve 3pm Pageant Service. The formation of a more permanent and ongoing Junior Choir is an idea being considered; at this time it is not clear whether or not enough interest and commitment exists within the parish to support the startup of such a ministry.

Finally, both Kathy and I would like to thank Stephanie, the Wardens and Vestry, the choir, and the entire parish for such a warm welcome to St. John’s and to the North Shore. We have enjoyed getting to know the area, and very much look forward to the remainder of 2016. We’re already planning an evening out with our gift card from the Vestry. Many thanks!

Jeremy BrunsOrganist and Music Director

The Concert Series Report

The St. John’s Concert Series presented three diverse and highly successful concerts this fiscal year. Each was well attended.

The first was a March piano and organ program with performances by our former Organist and Music Director Brink Bush and his concert pianist brother Mitchell.

Then in April on Good Friday our Choir gave a lovely performance of the Fauré Requiem. Later that month the Boston Cecilia Society, under the direction of Nicholas White, performed.

Finally, in October, the 2nd South Carolina String Band made its second Concert Series appearance with fun and spritely Civil War music.

We have two more concerts scheduled to complete the September 2015 – April 2016 concert year. Our new Organist and Music Director, Jeremy Bruns, will present a concert of organ music in February or March. Nicholas White and the Boston Cecilia Society will return in April.

So far we have been able to raise sufficient funds from our congregation and other attending friends to cover the concert and reception expenses. We hope we are able to continue this.

For Jeremy and the Committee

Michael MorssTreasurer of the Concert Series

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The Art Show Committee

The monthly art shows at St. John’s have been going on for 11 years (with the exception of the summer months). Artists, primarily from Cape Ann, have been invited to show their paintings, photographs, sculp-ture, folk art, icons, etc. There have been solo shows, group shows of artists who paint together, or study with a particular teacher. Children’s art has also been featured. The duration of the shows is generally one month, and most of the artwork is for sale. When a sale results, the artist is encouraged to make a donation to St. John’s.

Celebration Hall is an ideal space for the exhibitions with excellent light and ample wall space. The art work adds color and interest to the space which is the setting for coffee hour, and various meetings that take place at St. John’s. The artists often choose to have receptions, which they arrange, using their own mailing lists as well as inviting parishioners to attend.

Artists are found through visits to art exhibitions at the various galleries and institutions in the area. Cape Ann has long been a destination for both artists and collectors. If there are members of the congregation who are artists, or who would like to recommend artists to me, I would be happy to work with them. Col-lectors might consider showing their collections, was is the case with folk art from the Morss’ collection.

Bonnie Loyd CraneCommittee Chair

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6 Part Six Outreach and Mission

The B-SAFE Report

B-SAFE is a summer enrichment camp for kids 5-12 years old that the Diocese supports in 7 different locations in Boston. What makes the camps work is partner churches like St. John’s, who agree to “pay for a week.” Meaning: we prepare, serve and clean-up lunch for 4 days, and arrange an all day field trip on Friday.

Six years ago we first participated, knowing very little about the program. We chose the parish closest to us – St. Lucas in Chelsea. Since that first summer our participation has grown: In 2015, St. John’s supplied healthy lunches for 4 days (including their closing ceremonies), and provided them with their 2 favorite field trips – a day at West Beach, and a day at Green Meadows Farm (thank you Joanne Patton!)

B-Safe is a wonderful program for St. John’s in that it involves all ages. Every year, we have a few grand-mother/grandchild teams, mothers and fathers helping out with their elementary age kids, teens coming every day to help, and miscellaneous old-timers who just enjoy the fellowship of being in our kitchen, and the craziness of lunchtime in Chelsea! This year we had over 40 volunteers!

At 9am we met at the church and cooked for 2 hours. Then we drove to Chelsea. We’re given guidelines from B-SAFE about meals that the kids like, but by now we know what they love! Five years ago Kelly Zaval figured out how we could serve beef tacos with all the fixin’s family style – and the kids RAVE about them. They beg for Katherine Pessin’s mac n’cheese (“is it Kraft???”). Oven baked chicken fingers, and baked ziti with turkey are also favorites. We always serve fruits and veggies, we have a great time making fun deserts – and we also leave a filling snack for them to leave with at the end of the day. After lunch, we love our ½ hour of DEAR (Drop Everything And Read) time with the kids.

The Friday field trip is always the highlight of the week – for the kids AND for us. The bus brings the kids to St. John’s, and from here we walk to West Beach where we have a great beach day, including cheese-burgers and fries from Super Sub. At the end of the day we walk back to St. John’s for a big ice cream party in a crazily decorated Loring Hall. The highlight of the party is always the slide show of photos that Rob Ginn had taken all week. No kid was left out! They also love seeing the past slide shows Rob has done – many of the kids have been with the program for several years, along with their siblings and cousins.

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Finally, it’s so important to mention that the Manuel family – who one year volunteered for one day, and now runs the music program in Chelsea for the entire 5 weeks.

B-SAFE is funded by Outreach and the Special Christmas Offering.

Leslie LeathersichFor the B-Safe Helpers

The Community Shop Report

The “Shop” has been open for 11 years! A total of $288,122.45 to Outreach! (Including 2015)

Our Accomplishments for 2015 are as follows:

1. $500 to the Arthur and *Pru Pollard Scholarship Fund, Beverly High School2. $22,000 to The St. John’s Outreach 3. $100 to the St. John’s Team—for the H.A.W.C. Walk4. Many bags of clothing to Lidia for the Dominican Republic5. S.O.S. from Action in Gloucester for school clothing for a family of 5 children and a single mother.

The mother was working two jobs which paid for food and rent. Within three days we had collect-ed new and used clothes for the children.

6. Bags of men’s clothing were given to Rev. Stephen Scarff and the youth group for the homeless in Boston

Some of the agencies supported by outreach via the “Shop”:

Beverly Bootstraps Wellspring House River HouseBeverly Female Charitable Association Beverly School for the Deaf Pathways for Children Harborlight Community Partners Acord Food Pantry Cape Ann Interfaith Commission Plummer Home for Boys North Shore Community Development Manchester Fund to Prevent Homelessness

Once again, where would we be without our faithful volunteers! They are as follows: Toni Brennan, Ann Lewis, Gayle Jacobson, Susan Lord, Joan Buchanan, Pat Fairhurst, Terry Dow, Mimi Moss, Jim Crossan, Connie Crossan, Betsy Lynch, Ann and Phil Dwight, Richard Thorndike, Leslie Leathersich, Peter Boras, and Al and Tina Torsey . Dereck Smith has been sending our tax report to the state each month for the past 11 years!!

Thank you to the Clergy, Office Staff, Vestry and the St. John’s Community for your support and donations. Come and visit us Tuesday 1-4pm, Thursday and Saturday 10-1pm. Also if you would like to volunteer in

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the Shop please contact any volunteer, it’s fun and rewarding.

Remember all of the money goes to outreach except the sales tax and phone bill each month.

*Our fearless leader and founder

Tina Torsey and Toni Bernnan Shop Coordinator and Assistant Shop Coordinator

The Monday Night Suppers Report

MONDAY NIGHT SUPPERS happen on the 4th Monday of each month at The First Baptist Church in Beverly.

Typically between 7 and 15 of us show up at 4 to prepare a hearty meal, which we serve promptly at 6 (following a moment of prayer and thanks) to somewhere between 40 and 75 in the large parish hall/gym. One of us buys all of the food in advance. Favorite meals are chicken thighs or ham. To accompany the meat we always make mashed potatoes, sautéed green vegetables, roasted carrots & salad. Tuna sandwich-es are served at 5:30 to hold the early birds over, and ice cream and chocolate sauce is a favorite for desert. In addition to all of the food prep, we set up and set the tables, and of course we clean up the kitchen and put away all of the table and chairs. Usually we are done by 7.

MNS has been going on for YEARS. It has always been funded by outreach and in recent years by the special Christmas offering. We usually spend between $250 and $300/meal, including paper products. Most of our guests, or friends, take home a full meal that they can warm up the following day. We recycle everything that we can. Many different organizations serve meals in Beverly, but our friends always tell us how much they appreciate that on the 4th Monday they will always eat a homemade, healthy meal. Truly, we are thanked over and over again, for our time, our generosity and caring. This is a wonderful ministry – any and all are invited to join. (But don’t try to take away the potato mashing duties from Curtis!)

Leslie LeathersichFor the Monday Night Supper Crew

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The Outreach Committee Report

Having just taken over this ministry in December 2015, I don’t have much to report as I am still learning the ropes. I am pleased to confirm that a group of us consisting of Tina Torsey, Stephen Scarff and Joe Malek and myself met in early January to discuss the grant applications. From the hard-working Community Shop, we were blessed to have $22,000 to divide among the many worthy applicants. I am attaching a spread sheet which on page one details the grant applications, the amount requested and the amount given. On the second page, there is a description of all the organizations St. Johns has given to in the past.

Going forward, we are going to streamline the application process. First, we will only be accepting applications from confirmed 501(c)3 organizations. Secondly, we are going to implement a more structured timeline for applying and delivering money so that it is all done within the same fiscal year. The plan is to send out the grant applications in May/June and have the completed forms due back by September 1st. The Community Shop closes its books at the end of October so the Outreach Committee will decide the allocation of funds at the beginning of November and checks will be delivered in December. In addition, organizations will not be considered unless funds are requested with the application being completed and returned within the specified timeframe. We will also make ALL the grant applications available to the entire parish by having a binder in the office for those that would wish to review.

Please do let me know if you have any further questions.

Michele Morrow CurreriOutreach Committee Chair

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7 Part Seven Inreach

The Eucharistic Visitors Report

The Eucharistic Visitors administer the consecrated elements of the Eucharist to those members of St Johns who are unable to be present at church. This is a wonderful ministry, and if anyone would like to be involved, please email Eve Seamans (eve.seamans@gmail.com) for more information. Also, we are able to visit more parishioners, so if you know someone who would like to receive communion in his or her home, please contact Eve or the church office.

If you know of someone who would like to receive home communion, please let the church know.

Eve SeamansFor the Eucharist Visitors

The Flower Delivery Report

Want to cheer someone up? Is there a nicer way to think of someone in the hospital or alone in their home than with a delivery of our beautiful Altar Flowers? After the 10 o’clock service, flowers are taken to the Flower Room and readied for delivery. Most weeks, the flowers are unspoken for and you may come and take them to someone who needs them! There are cards in the Flower Room, and you can just fill out and deliver them to friends and neighbors… Parishioners or NOT! Check with Stephanie or Pam to see if they are available for the week!

Pam MorssFor the Flower Deliverers

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Hospitality / Parish Life - tba

The Newcomers Committee Report

The first reception to welcome newcomers to St. John’s will take place on Sunday, January 24th. Twen-ty-five new households (families and individuals) have been invited. Existing members and ministry lead-ers are invited to introduce some of St. John’s ministries, events and activities. It is an opportunity to meet each other and ask questions and learn how to get involved in the life of St John’s.

Respectfully submitted,

Miranda HodgkinsFor the Committee

The Young Family Ministry Report

Working along with the Church School, the Young Family Ministry encourages activities that bring parents and children together. In early summer of 2015, we held our first Family Drive-In Movie Night. While the kids enjoyed pizza and watched a movie, the parents gathered around the fire pit and mingled with old and new friends. The night was a huge success for all.

In 2016, we are planning more family activities with movies, bingo, and game nights. Stay tuned for more family fun!

Gail CooteFor the Young Family Ministry

The Youth Group Report - see Curate’s Report

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8 Part Eight Administrative Ministries

The Building and Grounds Report

When it comes to a theme this year for Building & Grounds activities, one might be tempted to say “snow, snow, and more snow!” After all, some 108 inches wreaked havoc on the area. But it was no match for the intrepid team of Sexton Peter Bouras and Parish Administrator Rob Ginn. Storm after storm, Peter cheerfully made sure the grounds were clear, and Rob, among his many other duties, coordinated roof snow removal, ensuring very minimal damage associated with gutters, the copper/glass cupola over the restrooms (a constant vulnerability point), and ice dams.

The parish is also grateful to Rob for locating a specialist who upgraded the church’s sound system. The simple replacement of a few components and some re-programming has significantly improved the sound quality on Sunday morning - and given us the ability to record sermons and put them on the church’s website!

Capital Improvements

But down under there was a crisis of a more mundane nature – the demise of our venerable 30-year-old septic pumps. The Committee extends gratitude to Rob for coordinating the sundry dirty details of the replacement, and to Joe Malek for his engineering and cost analysis expertise.

The sanitary sewer system consists of collection and conveyance piping, a holding tank, and pumps that transfer the waste material from the holding tank in the rear property to the city’s sewer system in the street. In January the system partially failed primarily due to age. The pumping system had previously been installed in the 1980s and wear and corrosion had taken its toll.

The pumping system, including electrical controls, was replaced just prior to the January blizzard (thank-fully!!!). The current system is estimated to have a 15 – 20 year life and will be inspected annually as part of a preventative maintenance program. The cost of the project was approximately $26,000.

Grounds Improvements

This year also saw some much-needed repair to the bluestone front walkway. With design expertise from Joe Malek, the major pavers that had chipped and cracked were replaced with new ones, making the path

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safer, more inviting – and ready for more foot traffic! Thank you, Joe and Steve MacKinnon!

More minor repairs and improvements included installation of a rail in the choir loft, boiler upgrades, paving potholes in the parking lot, reseeding and fertilizing the front lawn, repair and repainting of the front sign, and some plumbing and heating/ventilation system repairs.

On a brighter note, the Church purchased a storage shed for the rear of the church for storage of all maintenance equipment. Having everything in one place has made life easier for Peter. Thank you to him for researching the purchasing and finding a shed that fit with the church architecture – and was on sale!

In addition, the Committee started evaluating the process for sanding and refinishing the Sanctuary’s rare and beautiful heart pine floors. Because of the complexity of the project, immediate action was postponed while information is being gathered regarding aesthetics and carpeting. Some $7,000 was raised at the Annual Auction to put toward the start of the project in 2016.

As part of its oversight duties, the Building & Grounds Committee is charged with identifying, prioritizing and coordinating capital improvements. This list includes the sound system, building access, parking lot repainting, roof repairs and other items required to keep the building and landscape in top condition. An inventory of necessary repairs and potential capital projects was started for further discussion with the Finance Committee and Vestry in 2015. Also being developed is a Wish List of items that can be achieved through parishioner donations. Items under consideration are various items for the front garden.

One final note: the Memorial Garden is available for internments. Contact the Church Office for details.

Submitted by,

John Newberry and Steve MacKinnonFor the Building and Grounds Committee

The Communications / Marketing Report- tba

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The Delegates to North Shore Deanery & Episcopal Convention Report

It is an honor to serve on the North Shore Deanery. This past year, we were involved in 1) deciding who to recommend for the Massachusetts Deanery Grants,

2) the budget process of the Episcopal Diocese, 3) learning about the Mission Institute, and 4) learning about the Leadership Development Mission initiative.

Learning about these things gave us insight as to how St. John’s is involved in the Episcopal Diocese.

Secondly, attendance at the Episcopal Convention was exciting. Friday evening was the seating of Bishop Alan Gates and the reopening of the Cathedral of St. Paul’s.

The 230th Convention highlights included Budget approval with $750,000 Green Loans and Grants given to decrease our Carbon Footprint, New Mission Strategy being developed, passed Resolutions on Relief for Persecuted Christians & others in the Middle East, Support of Pilgrimages & Partnerships with the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem, and Supporting the Migration Crisis in Latin America. Forty-five new people were approved for ordination as postulants, candidates, and transitional deacons, of which 35 for the Priesthood ( Stephen Scarff was one) and 10 for the Diaconate.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as Delegates.

Gail CampbellMartha CrainConvention and Deanery Delegates

The Human Resources Committee Report

This June, Brink Bush left St. John’s as Choir director and organist.

Over the summer, Walter Stone, Sarah Snyder, Oliver and Jodi Klein, and Bob Willcutt led a search for a new organist. We are extremely pleased that Jeremy Bruns has joined St. John’s!

The HR Committee, Pam Morss, Steve MacKinnon, Curtis Vouwie, Julia Cluett, Susan Coffin, Susan Potter, Walter Stone, and Cindy Williams helped with implementing Staff reviews over the past year.

Walter StoneFor the Human Resource Committee

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The Mission Discernment Committee Progress Report

Committee members: Paul Bonner, Barbara Braver, Carroll Clark, Lee Herter, Robert P Jones, Jr.- Chair, Sarah Kaull, Jeannie McIntyre-Vice Chair, Evan Randolph, Lia Wainwright, Kelly Zaval, and Curtis Vouwie, Chaplain

Since September 2013, St. John’s has been blessed with the Rev. Stephanie Chase Bradbury as its Priest-in-Charge. When Stephanie was called as Priest-in-Charge, it was for a three-year period with the understanding that during the third year of her ministry, she and the congregation would undertake a discernment process to determine whether she should become St. John’s next Rector.

The objectives of the discernment process when a congregation has engaged a Priest-in-Charge are to assess after two years whether the congregation believes the Priest-in-Charge is the right person to lead the congregation as Rector; whether the Priest-in-Charge wishes to continue to lead the parish; and in these respects, whether the congregation and Priest-in-Charge have a shared vision for the future.

In essence, St. John’s and Stephanie have been involved informally in a dual discernment processfrom the start of Stephanie’s ministry. However, it is important before the congregation and Stephanie reach a final decision that they undertake a more deliberate process with the appointment of a Mission Discernment Committee. The role of this committee is to make a recommendation to the vestry on the call of the Priest-in-Charge as Rector.

As part of this process, the St. John’s Mission Discernment Committee has developed a brief profile of St. John’s that provides an overall picture of the church, an articulation of its core values derived from individual and small group interviews and a series of all parish large group interview sessions, and an assessment of St. John’s strengths and goals. This process serves to inform St. John’s vision and long-term goals and, in turn, its call of a new Rector.

The St. John’s vestry appointed the Mission Discernment Committee in June 2015. Since its initial organizational meeting on July 29, the committee has met an additional twelve times throughout the late summer into early winter 2015. In September, October and November, some members of the committee held a series of small group interviews, two back-to-back Sunday large group discernment sessions (utilizing the diocesan appreciative inquiry style interview and data collection method), individual interviews with paid staff, and numerous individual interviews with parishioners who were unable to attend either large group discernment session.

We have gone about our work surrounded by prayer and in a spirit of mutual trust and collaboration. We have been of one heart and have the strong shared goal of the well being of the parish we all care deeply about. We are very mindful of the importance of our work in the life and future of our parish, and of the Priest-in-Charge. We have tried to take into account the thoughts and concerns and feelings of all as we moved forward. We value confidentiality - which is why we are sometimes unable to give specific details that would make obvious the identity of those who shared their thoughts with us. We value transparency and have kept everyone informed as most appropriate all along the way.

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Several core values have emerged during extensive interviews and discussions with parishioners in large and small group sessions, from one-on-one interviews and individual letters received by the committee. These values include:

• Opportunities for spirituality and participation in the liturgy• The welcoming and warm spirit of St. John’s—a sense of inclusiveness and vibrant energy• The high quality music and the choir• The high degree of pastoral care• The healthy and growing church school• The engagement of young families• A healthy Youth Group and Confirmation class• Engaging, uplifting and inspiring sermons• Adult education and forums• The ability to be engaged in a wide array of ministries• An expanded and diverse outreach program• Collaboration among clergy, staff, vestry and parishioners• A strong sense of tradition but open to new ideas• The health of the physical church• Stability in leadership and clergy• Stability in financial and administrative processes

Finally, it is clear that the parishioners desire a Rector who is:

• Compassionate, providing timely and sensitive pastoral care for parishioners of all ages• Energetic, creative and visibly engaged in St John’s ministries• Inspirational, offering spiritual guidance and intellectual challenge through preaching and

education• A leader with humility and a demonstrated capacity for collaboration• A strong communicator, an active listener, and open to parishioner input• Approachable, warm, and personable, and able to become a spiritual guide and trusted Friend

We will deliver our Preliminary Report to the Priest-in-Charge after January 1, 2016 and allow her a reasonable time period in which to read and reflect upon the report and provide a written response to the committee. The committee will then meet sometime in February with the Priest-in-Charge to discuss both reports and discern the degree to which the vision of the parish--as described in our preliminary report meshes with the vision, gifts and talents of the Priest-in-Charge. Subsequently, the committee will meet and prepare its final report which will include its recommendation to the Vestry as to whether to call the Priest-in-Charge as the next Rector for St. John’s. Under Diocesan rules, it is noted that the Vestry is the governing body that will make the final decision.

Robert JonesCommittee Chair

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2015 In Memoriam

Lewis Stetson AllenDaniel Barton SladeChristopher DaltonEdward Raymond SimsMargaret Carnegie Ricketson SpragueJoan Van RodenClaire Moore DickersonArthur M. Clarke, Jr.Evans Rogers Dick IIICharles Wetmore Kellogg IIWilliam M. IlerElizabeth Cable LewisJames E. NixMary Stoneman Stevenson

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St. John’s Episcopal Church Beverly Farms

Clergy The Rev. Stephanie Chase Bradbury Priest-in-Charge

The Rev. Stephen D. Scarff Curate

The 2015 Vestry Pamela Morss, Senior Warden 2017 Stephen MacKinnon, Junior Warden 2017 Joseph D. Malek, Treasurer 2017 Jeannie McIntrye, Clerk 2016 Sarah Kaull 2016 Sean Kelly 2016 Anita Schwechheimer 2016 Mark E. Young 2016 Alan Braver 2017 Jodie Stevenson 2017 Walter Stone 2017 Christopher Wolf 2017 Gail Coote 2018 Giuseppe (Joe) Curreri 2018 Ivy George 2018 Robert Shepley 2018

Staff Jeremy Burns Organist and Music Director Donna Hingston Church School Director Martha Shook Parish Secretary Peter Bouras Sexton Rob Ginn Parish Administrator Blair Spofford Bookkeeper

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