At the Church Council meeting on Monday, March 18, reports were received from the ministries of our congregation.
The Child Development Center is growing with students and staff, including two former, long-time CDC staff members returning to our ministry. We are grateful for the steadfastness of our CDC Board of Directors and our Director, Dr. Paullette Clemons.
We are grateful for the significant effort of the Learning Ministry Team, Worship Ministry Team, and Property Committee, among others.
The Transition Team reported that six small group meetings were held in February, with each meeting had 6 to 10 attendees in addition to two Transition Team members. Discussions included reactions to “The Leader We Seek” survey that went out in late December, desired leadership qualities of our next pastor, important focus areas for our next pastor’s first year, and the ways in which the congregation can help support the new pastor in their first year. The Transition Team continues to carefully complete the Ministry Site Profile in anticipation of presenting it to the Council for conversation.
The Council received a report from Treasurer Allen Jesen, which indicated a few minor changes to the 2023 report that allow us to proceed this year with greater clarity.
The Congregation received a $20,000 gift from the Estate of H. D. Butler. H. D. and Evelyn Butler were active in our congregation many years ago. The Council moved, discussed, and voted to place $10,000 in the emergency borrowing fund, and $10,000 in the general operating fund. We are grateful for all who give in many ways, including those who provide legacy financial gifts that empower our current and future ministry and community engagement.
The Council appointed a Benevolence Task Force for 2024: Claudia Barlow, Merrily Porter, Teresa Ringness, and Ben Rode. The congregation will be asked to engage with the task force soon.
The Council passed a resolution of recognition and appreciation to Vic Winter, P.E., for his work. Licensed professional engineer Vic Winter, of Winter Engineering, coordinated and conferred with the Property and Door Restoration Committees, reviewed the original (1935) structural plans, visited the site, performed engineering calculations and designs, and provided signed and sealed structural plans suitable for permitting and constructing, and declined remuneration for his professional services and provided them gratis. The next set of restored narthex doors should arrive soon.
The Council received the resignation of our Church Office Administrator, Randi Ladolcetta. We are grateful for her work with us, and we wish her well in her health and future endeavors. Randi has graciously agreed to assist with the transition during her final month. The Administration Committee of the Council and the Cantor are perusing the next steps toward another Office Administrator.
Everyone is encouraged to attend and invite others to worship services during Holy Week and on Easter Sunday.
The Council will hold a day retreat on Saturday, April 20.
The Council meets next on Monday, April 15 at 7 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Baden
CouncilSecretary@felcaustin.org
