First Presbyterian Church of Houston Session Agenda—November 16, 2010 Dinner 5:30 PM - FH 154 and FH 156 Meeting 6:30 PM - Solarium Devotional & Ministry Update
Jack Modesett
Omnibus Approve October 2010 Session Meeting Minutes Approve Membership Report Approve Consent Motions Pastor’s Report Session Retreat
Jim Birchfield
Clerk’s Report Presbytery Meeting Update
Jennifer Boubel Houghton Hutcheson
Reports Finance
Sharon Henry
Old Business New Business T.V. Ministry Prayer and Praise Communion
Jim Birchfield
Prayer and Motion to Adjourn Important Dates: Christmas Party Next Session Meeting
December 16 January 18
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MINUTES OF THE SESSION THE FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF HOUSTON October 19, 2010
The October Meeting of the Session began at 6:30 p.m. in the solarium with a quorum present. John Van Wagoner opened the meeting with prayer. Attendance: See the attached Session Attendance Record for attendance to date for this year. Young Adults Ministry: John Van Wagoner introduced Jeremiah Morris who gave a devotional/report on his ministry to the Young Adults of our church and community between the ages of 18-35. There are a variety of small groups and mentoring opportunities that are making a difference one life at a time. Omnibus Motions: The following omnibus motions were passed without discussion. Approval of the September 21, 2010 Session Meeting Minutes Approval of the September Membership Report A motion from the Personnel Committee that the committee, which was formed in the 1970’s, be dissolved with appreciation from the Session and Congregation for their wonderful ministry in the rich heritage of our church. A motion from the Chair of the Presbytery Committee that the Session of First Presbyterian Church of Houston, at its Stated Meeting on October 19, 2010, approve the following elders as elder commissioners to the November 13, 2010 meeting of the New Covenant Presbytery: Chris Dove, Houghton Hutcheson, Bill Hargrove, Marilyn McDonald, John Mawhinney, Carlton Currie, George Bones, Scott Jenkins (alternate), David Barnes (alternate), and Janna Taylor (alternate). A motion from Permanent from Main Street Ministries for $20,000 to fund start-up costs associated with establishing financial systems, policies and procedures, the implementation of administrative procedures for the four ministries, volunteer training and tracking procedures. A motion from Permanent from Mo Ranch for $20,000 to proceed with Phase II of the replacement of 70 year old water mains. A motion from Permanent Request from Nehemiah Center, Inc. for $25,000 to complete capital improvement project by the remodel of the second floor, telephone and security system upgrades and adding required structural steel. Pastor’s Report: Rev. Birchfield reviewed the assignment for the Session retreat October 22- 23. Friday night will be a time of prayer and worship and Saturday will be conversation of Vision 2013. What is our calling? What is our future? Describe what it would look like and how do we move forward to where God is calling us? A proposal for a holiday Sunday schedule was discussed. December 26 will be: 9:30 Sunday School, 10:45 Worship in the sanctuary, 11:05 Worship in the Grand Hall. The first two weeks of January 2011 are slated for an over haul of the air conditioning in the sanctuary. During this time the Fellowship Hall will be set up as it was for Easter over flow and used for worship on the first two Sundays in January and to include the third Sunday if necessary. Clerk’s Report: John Van Wagoner thanked the chairs and liaisons for successfully getting the ministries up and running. The chairs are asked to turn in their minutes one week before the session meeting so there is time to include them in the Session Packet. The ministries are encouraged to make decisions for situations that don’t need to come before the Session.
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Rev. Bill Heston reported on the structure of the ministry committees in keeping with Vision 2013. Members will serve for three years and rotate off to allow room for new members. The first rotation will be the end of May 2011 when one third of the membership will rotate off. A Town Hall Meeting was held in September to explain the actions of the 2010 General Assembly and the position of First Presbyterian Church Houston as we move forward. John Van Wagoner read a letter which was received in response to the position that the Session has adopted. Jennifer Boubel will write a response letter. A motion was made, seconded and approved to form a Session Subcommittee to look at the denominational issues and what are the options for our church. The following members were nominated to serve on the committee: John Rhem, chair, Rev. Jim Birchfield, Randy Wilson, John Van Wagoner, Claudia Stewart, Valerie Arredondo, and Al Dupont.
Reports: Finance Committee: Sharon Henry reported that the budget is in a slight deficit for the first of the fiscal year. After January 2011, the budget will be looked at and decisions made as to what needs to be adjusted to finish the year within budget. Small Group Initiative: Rev. Jon Crantz reported that we have approximately 20 small groups with over 200 people participating. God speaks to us through Rev. Birchfield’s preaching, Rev. Crantz’s curriculum writing and through the small groups as they study the scriptures. Another component of the small groups is for us to care for each other and to have a missional outreach. Old Business: Missional Spending: Rev. Andrew Stepp reported on the Missional spending for First Presbyterian Church of Houston. The focus is that through our missional spending we are able to make disciples of our members and those whom we serve. New Business: None Prayer and Praise: Community prayer and praise was offered. Communion was served by intinction with Rev. Heston and Elder Gayle Smith officiating. Rev Heston adjourned the meeting with prayer at 8:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted,
_____________________________ Rev. Jim Birchfield, Moderator
_______________________________ John Van Wagoner., Clerk of Session
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Session Attendance 2010-2011 A= Absence E= Excused June August Sept Oct Nov Arredondo, Valerie Barnes, David Baskin, Lee Blake, Glenn Boubel, Jennifer Calkins, David Cook, Cindy Cooper, Linda Derden, Chris Dove, Chris Dupont, Al Hargrove, Bill Henry, Sharon Hutcheson, Houghton Joplin, Jane King, Leslie McKechnie, John Modesett Jr., Jack O’Neil, Susan Potter, Mark Pownall, Henry Robertson, Fred Schorre, Randall Smith, Evelyn Smith, Gayle Van Wagoner, John Waltz, Brett
Jan
Feb
March
April
May
EX
EX EX
EX
EX
EX EX EX
EX EX EX
EX
EX EX
EX
EX
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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, HOUSTON REPORT TO THE SESSION MEMBERSHIP REPORT OCTOBER, 2010 NEW CHURCH MEMBERS No New Member Class in October. RESTORED TO ACTIVE ROLL Diaz, Miss Kathryn R. (Katie) Hood, Mr. Dean Alan (Alan)
restored to Active roll; attending The Table restored to Active roll; moved to Inactive roll in error
DECEASED Newton, Mrs. Kathryn Louis Worley
deceased in 2009; not notified of death
DISMISSED Clyburn, Mrs. Betty Edwards Burke Clyburn, Mr. Stephen A. (Steve) Long, Mrs. Carol Elder Chastang Long, Mr. Larry Lester Longbottom, Mrs. Tara Sampson Longbottom, Mr. Terence H. (Terry) Morrell, Mrs. Sue Elizabeth Herring Morrell, Mr. Kim Irving Murphy, Mrs. Kelly Alisa Coole Weigand, Mr. Philip Blake Weigand, Mrs. Rebecca Ramsay Reardon Young, Dr. Aaron Ray Young, Mrs. Jamie Elle REMOVED FROM ACTIVE ROLL Attwell, Mr. Evans Scott Attwell, Mrs. Theresa Hall Dobson, Mrs. Christine Rene Ludy Dobson, Miss Kristen Elaine Dobson, Dr. Monte Keith Gladden, Mrs. E. J. Hanes, Mr. Roger Lee Hock, Mr. Douglas George (Doug) Hogan, Ms. Dorothy F. (Dottie) House, Mr. Royce Hubbard, Mrs. Amy Charlotte Jones Hubbard, Mr. James Allen (Jimmy)
dismissed to First Presbyterian Church, Kerrville TX dismissed to First Presbyterian Church, Kerrville TX dismissed to First Presbyterian Church, Fort Worth TX dismissed to First Presbyterian Church, Fort Worth TX dismissed to Christ United Methodist Church Sugar Land TX dismissed to Christ United Methodist Church Sugar Land TX dismissed to Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, Clear Lake TX dismissed to Clear Lake Presbyterian Church, Clear Lake TX dismissed to Chapelwood United Methodist Church, Houston TX dismissed to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Houston TX dismissed to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, Houston TX dismissed to White’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Fort Worth TX dismissed to White’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Fort Worth TX at their request at their request removed at their request; address unknown removed at their request; address unknown removed at their request; address unknown removed at her request removed; address unknown moved out of town in 2006; requested no mail moved out of state; requested no mail removed; joined another church at their request at their request
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MOVED TO INACTIVE MEMBERSHIP ROLL Davenport, Mr. J. C. (James) Davenport, Mrs. Norma Fair, Mr. Barry Joseph Fenley, Mr. Chad W., Fenley, Mrs. Jamie Colleen Forjuoh, Miss Harriet N. Forth, Ms. Lori G. Hlavacek, Dr. Anthony (Tony) Hobson, Mr. Daniel Clay (Clay) Hobson, Mrs. Rebecca Paschell Robertson Holcomb, Mr. Theodore P. III (Ted) Hord, Mr. Michael Foster, Jr. Hoyle, Ms. Laura Sharon (Sharon) Hutchinson, Dr. John Hutchinson, Mrs. Paula Jackson, Ms. Gaye Price McCoppin, Mrs. Dorothy Lancaster McCoppin, Mr. J. Thomas III (Tom) McCoppin, Miss Leslie McCoppin, Miss M. Elizabeth (Liz) Rimkus, Mr. Jeff Turner, Mrs. Kelley Bailey Bowen Wald, Mrs. Elsie M. Randolph (Billie) REMOVED FROM INACTIVE ROLL Blasi, Mr. Joseph Raymond (Joe)
MEMBERSHIP AS OF SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 Gains Losses MEMBERSHIP AS OF OCTOBER 31, 2010
moved to Kerrville; address unknown moved to Kerrville; address unknown out of state address unknown out of state address unknown out of state address unknown moved out of state in 2007 moved out of state in 2004 moved to inactive roll; address unknown moved to inactive roll; address unknown moved to inactive roll; address unknown lives in Florida unknown address address unknown moved out of state in 2007 moved out of state in 2007 moved out of town 10+ years ago moved to Inactive roll; lives out of town moved to Inactive roll lives out of town address unknown address unknown moved to Colorado; address unknown address unknown address unknown
joined Chapelwood United Methodist Church, Houston TX 3890 2 -50 3842
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Report for October 2010 - Membership Services Worship Services 2010 8:15 Worship 9:30 Worship 10:45 Worship 11:05 Worship Total Worship Att
Week 40 10/3/10 180 316 411 321 1228
Week 41 10/10/10 221 256 409 886
Week 42 10/17/10 308 383 398 300 1389
Week 43 10/24/10 208 262 454 328 1252
Week 44 10/31/10 199 290 370 273 1132
Baptisms:
Infant Adult Weddings: Member Funerals: NonMbr Funerals:
8 0 3 0 0
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Consent Motions The Permanent Funds Committee:
Request from Gaba Bible Institute for $25,000 to construct a kitchen for new campus. Request from The Brookwood Community for $10,000 to renovate, repair and refurbish Worship Center. Request from First Presbyterian Church Houston Television Ministry for $65,000 to fund TV ministry from June 2010 through December 2010.
Reports FINANCE November 10, 2010 Members Present: Chris Champion, Richard Darrah, Edward Griffin, Debbie Hanna, Chris Herbold, Sharon Henry and Patti Hopson Staff Present: Jim Burchfield, Steve Pitzer and Dale Hendrix Members Absent: Victor Harris, David Miclette, and Fred Robertson and Randy Wilson Next Meeting: December 8, 2010 at 7 am The meeting opened with prayer. Chris Champion was welcomed as a new member to the Committee. Dale Hendrix reviewed the October (5th month) financial results of the Church, a summary of which is presented below:
Oct 2010 (Month) (000's) Actual Var. Budget Giving Other Income
$ -
494.8
$ -
492.2
Total Revenue
$
Operating Expenses Surplus/
$
(2.6)
494.8
$
492.2
$
(2.6)
$
(743.5)
$
(555.7)
$
187.8
$
(248.7)
$
(63.5)
$
185.2
-
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Oct 2010 YTD (000's) Budget Actual Var. Giving Other Income
$ 2,473.8 -
$ 2,206.4 -
$
(267.4) -
Total Revenue
$ 2,473.8
$ 2,206.4
$
(267.4)
Operating Expenses Surplus/
(3,357.4) $
(883.6)
(3,053.7) $
(847.3)
303.7 $
36.3
The Committee reviewed the monthly financial package. Dale also presented a comparison of the October YTD amounts, 2010 versus 2009:
Giving
2010
Oct YTD (000's) 2009
$ 2,206.0
$ 2,106.0
Operating Expenses Surplus/
(3,054.0) $
(848.0)
Var. $
(3,000.0) $
(894.0)
100.0 (54.0)
$
46.0
The Committee was pleased with the October results, especially the increase in giving. There had also been a receipt from Permanent Funds which had been booked to cover major Facilities repairs. Dale explained that Worship & Fine Arts continues to be over budget because they have not found a permanent leader for the 11:05 worship service. Richard Darrah agreed to work on the Stewardship campaign for 2011. Steve Pitzer pointed out that we need to have our Committee’s policies and procedures manual drafted within 90 days. We discussed several of the policies that need to be included therein. He agreed to ask Edith to review minutes to search minutes from prior Session meeting for other motions that were passed that impacted Finance. The Committee discussed that the line of credit with Bank of Texas expires December 31, 2010. It was discussed that the $2MM Museum money will be received in December will allow the Church to pay off the current $1MM balance on the line credit, until the funds are actually needed for their ultimate purpose. Also, since Michael Gallagher, the former Treasurer did a thorough job of interviewing banks last year at this time and because the Finance Department is pleased with the service provided by Bank of Texas, it was decided to continue our relationship with Bank of Texas for another year. Kay Walther and Ann Noller, with Blazek and Vetterling, CPAs, joined our meeting to review the results of the annual audit. They reviewed their Audit Communications. We went over in detail the corrected misstatements which were all minor. They reviewed their Report to Management. We reviewed this in detail and agreed that we would discuss this at our next meeting in order to prepare a proper response to the deficiencies brought up therein.
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They reviewed the draft of the annual report. In order to issue a final report, they indicated they would require a meeting with Bill Heston and Janet Lionberger regarding classification of the permanent funds. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 am with a fire drill. Sharon Henry Chair, Finance Committee
Permanent Funds November 1, 2010 Members present: Joe Bybee, Tom Graves, Betty Hundley, Benny Itz, Janet Lionberger, Bill Marshall, Tom Reiser, Randy Schorre Members absent: Jennifer Boubel, David Calkins, Richard Darrah, Ron Davis, Sabrina Espinoza, Michael Gallagher, Bill Hargrove, Russ Holder, Houghton Hutcheson, Tom Kennedy, Joe Roach Staff present: Dale Hendrix, Bill Heston, Steve Pitzer Summary of matters discussed and actions taken: Reviewed the TPF funds available for disbursement for fiscal year ending May 31, 2011. The spend rate of 4.5% was presented. Betty Hundley motioned, Tom Reiser second. The Committee approved. Grant Proposals: Reviewed a request from Gaba Bible Institute for $25,000 to construct a kitchen for new campus. o Approved $25,000 from Benevolence other. Tom Reiser motioned; Tom Graves second.
Reviewed a request from Daka Dyussekov of Campus Crusade for Christ for $5,000. Funds are required to be raised by staff for salary, benefits and ministry related expenses. o Denied. Benny Itz motioned; Joe Bybee second.
Reviewed a request from Alex Metry of Campus Crusade for Christ for $5,000. Funds are required to be raised by staff for salary, benefits and ministry related expenses. o Denied. Benny Itz motioned; Joe Bybee second.
Reviewed a request from Nader and Traci Wadie of Campus Crusade for Christ for $10,000. Funds are required to be raised by staff for salary, benefits and ministry related expenses. o Denied. Benny Itz motioned; Joe Bybee second.
Reviewed a request from The Brookwood Community for $10,000 to renovate, repair and refurbish Worship Center. o Approved $10,000 from Benevolences other. Tom Reiser motioned; Betty Hundley second.
Reviewed a request from St. Giles Presbyterian Church for $10,000 to upgrade Sanctuary sound system. o Approved $7,700 from Benevolence-Ricks, contingent upon receipt of current financial statements. Benny Itz motioned; Betty Hundley second.
Reviewed a request from Texas Theological Foundation for $5,000 to purchase study carrels and computers. o Approved $5,000 from Benevolence-Ricks. Tom Reiser motioned; Joe Bybee second.
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Reviewed a request from First Presbyterian Church Houston Television Ministry for $65,000 to fund TV ministry from June 2010 through December 2010. o Approved $65,000 from Mary Carter Fund. Tom Reiser motioned; Joe Bybee second.
Reviewed a request from Planned Giving & Endowment Committee of First Presbyterian Church for $5,000 to fund promotional events focused on enlistment efforts. o Approved $5,000 from Benevolence-Ricks. Joe Bybee motioned; Tom Reiser second.
Scholarship Proposals: University Reviewed a request from Nichole McGhie to attend University of Texas for the 2011-2012 school year. o Approved $1,000 from Benevolence. Tom Reiser motioned; Joe Bybee second.
Reviewed a request from Laura Collins to attend Colloquium for Doctoral Program of Capella University. o Declined. Betty Hundley motioned; Tom Reiser second.
Consent Motions requiring Session approval: Request from Gaba Bible Institute for $25,000 to construct a kitchen for new campus. Request from The Brookwood Community for $10,000 to renovate, repair and refurbish Worship Center. Request from First Presbyterian Church Houston Television Ministry for $65,000 to fund TV ministry from June 2010 through December 2010. New/Other Business: Janet Lionberger presented the new committee rotation class structure. The Committee confirmed. Next meeting: Monday, December 6, 2010, 5 p.m., FH 259 Chair: Janet Lionberger, email: [email protected]
Children and Family Members Present: Kristen Cline, Chair-Elect, Bill Heston, Pastor, Valerie Arredondo, Elder Liaison, Stephanie Fregia, Staff Lay Members: Katie Clark, Elizabeth Schwieder, Randy Frazier, Liz Palmer, Elizabeth Glenn Members Absent: Chris Wolfe, Rebecca Turner Summary of Matters Discussed: The November 4th meeting began at 9:00 am in room FH259 with a prayer by Bill Heston. 1. Advent Night - Elizabeth Schwieder and Stephanie Fregia a. Elizabeth Schwieder and Stephanie Fregia provided an update on Advent Night preparations. They are finalizing table decorations, have reserved a Nativity scene/petting zoo, have a contract with Maggiano's for dinner, and Bel Canto is singing. About 300 people attended last year, and they are planning for 300400. Diane gave them a budget of $7000. b. Elizabeth S. and Stephanie are now focusing on volunteer recruitment. Valerie is approaching the elders and women's ministry, Jeremiah has been contacted regarding the young adults, Groove will be cleaning tables, and other groups will be targeted. They are hoping to have people with young children volunteer before or after the event. Volunteer sign-up sheets will be distributed to targeted groups, such as Circles, Sunday School classes and Tapestry. c. Bill Heston had a question about the status of youth volunteers and whether the youth directors had been contacted. Elizabeth S. believes that Diane has contacted the proper people but wasn't sure of the volunteer status of the youth.
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2. Insights from Committee Members - Bill Heston and Committee Members a. The committee members shared volunteer ideas with Bill Heston. - Targeting classes/groups with specific volunteer opportunities - Having specific volunteer coordinator on committee or staff member in this role - Using face-to-face contact - Using website for volunteer opportunities - Working on volunteer attitude - Using database for elder nominating committee - add volunteer info and have someone available for follow-up - 2 part time people sharing the different aspects of the job - Volunteer interest survey b. Bill shared exciting news about one of the implementations of Vision 2013, a coordinating office for lay volunteers. When the idea can be included in the budget, a staff member will be added, perhaps part-time in the beginning to see what the need is. There is the potential of a kiosk for volunteers, use of the website for volunteer opportunities and coordination, more use of the member database for finding and targeting volunteers, the use of a volunteer interest survey, development of shepherding elders into some of these volunteer roles, etc. Bill expressed the importance of what we do with the kids - the building blocks of becoming good adults - and reaching kids early. Church is God's back-up plan when families don't provide support and guidance. c. Committee members also shared their insights about why they chose to volunteer in the Children and Family Ministry. Elizabeth G shared that she got involved through a phone call to teach Sunday School based on an interest survey in her new member class. Elizabeth S expressed her excitement at being recognized outside of church by one of her Sunday School students. Katie noted that our church has so much to offer but that there is often a lack of communication. She wanted to get involved but felt lost at first and would have loved someone to reach out to her. She has committed to building up communication with new/uninvolved families. There was an interest in how to identify new volunteers instead of always dipping into the same pool. Katie suggested KDO as a good source of potential volunteers/new members. 3. Update from the Ministry - Bill Heston a. Christmas Eve Service: Stephanie is working on the Birthday Party for Jesus event with Diane. Committee members liked the simple event between services last year with a good place to congregate in a warm, welcoming space. b. Church Schedule: December 26: only 10:45 and 11:05 services, child care will be available, special activity Sunday School at 9:30 January 2: full schedule Sanctuary will be closed first 2 or 3 Sundays in January for A/C work. Worship will be moved to Fellowship Hall. c. Liz Palmer asked Bill Heston about the budget process. Bill gave the committee a quick overview of the process. - In January we will need to evaluate the previous year's events and determine each event's attendance, purpose and whether the purpose was fulfilled. We will need to determine how to better allocate resources (time, volunteers, schedule, money) to offer meaningful events at meaningful times to get the most impact. The Finance Committee will give us guidelines, and Diane will be our primary link to the Finance Committee. The budget will not be approved until May, and our fiscal year starts June 1. We will need to determine a way to budget one year ahead for VBS in the future due to this fiscal calendar, and we will need to rely on last year's budget as a starting point for this year's VBS. d. Liz suggested members of our committee meet with someone ahead of our January meeting to go over the budget process so we are prepared. - Katie suggested some ways to save money might be using disposable tablecloths or buying tablecloths to reuse, cutting back on servers by using buffets or self-serve food. Other people suggested using less expensive food (hot dog stand), not having a complete dinner at each event, cash pay for James Coney Island or Beck's Prime. Questions asked: Why doesn't the church ever use the food
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service ECI that is at the church? Can we hire a licensed person to cook in the church kitchen like they do for some school's carnivals? 4. Updates from Committee Members a. Kristen reported from Chris Wolfe that WINGS is going well. b. Fall Festival Wrap-up: Committee members were unsure whether attendance was the same or down, but would like to explore the event further when we have more information, particularly regarding the cost of the event and the attendance. All committee members that were present thought the quality was great great simple food, lots of fun activities, kids had a blast, good connection with Presbyterian School volunteers. Questions - Should we cut down on the number of bouncy houses to save money? Should it be scheduled in conjunction with Halloween? Was there a conflict with the Presbyterian School carnival coming up? c. Potential Easter event: Committee members discussed having an Easter event. This would give us a good family spring event since most other things are fall-focused. Need to determine whether this is possible within our budget, whether to try to do something with Presbyterian School, whether to do it on a Saturday, Palm Sunday or Easter. Some ideas included an Easter egg hunt by age group, which began a conversation about whether that might not sit well with some church members, a display of an empty tomb, empty cross crafts, a big cross with chicken wire on which families can put flowers. 5. Upcoming Dates Kristen Cline noted that we would not have a December committee meeting and mentioned the following upcoming events. November 19th – Freaky Fun Friday for 4th and 5th graders (a scavenger hunt and pizza, kids only, also including WINGS) December 5th – Advent Night December 12th – Holy Night Candlelight Service of Carols (a celebration of Christmas carols at all services held in the Sanctuary on December 12) The meeting ended with a prayer by Kristen Cline. Our next meeting will be Thursday, January 6 at 9:00 am in FH 259. Chairman: Ashley Grady Email: [email protected] Tel: (713) 436-9515
Planned Giving November 3, 2010 Committee members present: Chris Athon, Bill Hall, Bill Heston, Louis Paine, Susan Miclette, Keyes Page, Cody Nath, Nancy Wells and Session liaison Glenn Blake. Members absent: Merry Davis and Tom Kennedy. Committee report of meeting October 6, 2010 was approved. Discussion Highlights Committee discussed David and Susan Miclette’s home event in November. Bill Heston worked with Dave McKechnie on planning event and invitation list. Potential hosts for future home events (Chris Athon, Nancy Wells, Jeffrey Paine).
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A Cornerstone donor is establishing a scholarship fund. Kim Warner, Texas Presbyterian Foundation, will be at FPC on November 30 or December 1. A meeting will be set with members of Planned Giving and Endowment to discuss future workshops. Conference Call – offer those unable to attend committee meetings the opportunity to join us on a conference call. Resignation of committee member, Tom Kennedy, accepted. (Members who include FPC in will or estate plans are known as Cornerstones for Christ. Those who wish to contribute now, give a minimum of $500 over a five-year period, many times in honor or memory of a loved one, are known as Stepping Stones for Christ. Use of gifts: scholarships, ministries, and projects outside the church budget. FPC guideline: endowment does not support church operations.) Meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m. (Next meeting: Wednesday, January 12, 2011, (date change) at 5 p.m. in FH 251. (No December meeting.) Submitted by Nancy Purcell for Bill Hall, Chair.
Worship November 25, 2010 Members Present: Victor Harris, Cindy Cook, Fielding Cocke, Linda Cooper, JaneCostello, Scott Luther, Sara Robertson, Lou Shields, John Yarrington, Jim Birchfield and Diana Greene The meeting was called to order by the Chair, Victor Harris. Prayer was offered by Linda Cooper. The Committee briefly reviewed the October financial report for Worship and Diana answered questions. Diana also reviewed the plans for various Advent, Christmas & other special events thru the end of the year. It was noted that due to repairs of air conditioning equipment, Sunday services for Jan2, 9 & possibly Jan 16 will be held in Fellowship Hall. Jim Birchfield led a discussion of the section of the Book of Order dealing with worship. Victor Harris communicated the charge of the Session that the Worship Committee look at worship at FPC, both in a broad sense, as well as each of our worship services, and make any observations or recommendations that come from that. The Committee discussed the anticipated need to educate the worshipers on the meaning & purpose of the various elements of worship & what the Book of Order says. The Committee decided to read The Future of Protestant Worship by Ronald Byars and discuss it at our next meeting. Victor also asked that members come prepared to discuss ideas on how to review the worship life at FPC and respond to the Session. The Committee will defer formalizing its policies and its rotation schedule. The next meeting of the Committee will be at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Sara Robertson closed the meeting with prayer at 6:55 P.M. Submitted 11/6/2010 V
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NEW MEMBER October 25, 2010 Members Present: Martha Erwin, Leslie King, Mary Knapp, Mary Lee Merrett, Patsy Powell, Gayle Smith Members Absent: Andrew Stepp, Susan O’Neil The meeting was opened with prayer by Leslie and the minutes from the June 7, 2010 meeting were approved. Dr. Jim Birchfield attended the meeting sharing his thoughts of the Lay Ministry which would include New Member Orientation. Jim stated that they were in the beginning stages of forming the Lay Ministry team, which is part of the Vision 2013 plan. Basically, the Lay Ministry will encompass the New Member activities, Shepherding Elders, capturing spiritual gifts, etc. A more comprehensive plan would include how we welcome visitors, how we followup with visitors, bring them to membership. Jim expressed that he would like to see a more in-depth look at the New Member Orientation activity, i.e. weekly classes for a period of time, small groups covering spiritual gifts, perhaps bring back ALPHA . He also expressed the possibility in having a pastor available to meet with visitors after each service giving guidance for involvement in the church. All committee members were appreciative of Jim’s visit. After Jim’s presentation, more discussion was held as to ideas, thoughts and actions that we could be doing. Leslie King, the Elder liaison, confirmed that our group would be initiating any changes to the New Member class structure (with approval from Jim and the Session). Phyllis Boaz was introduced to the group as the Evangelism/New Member administrative assistant for Andrew. Phyllis has previous history working for a church. She is very knowledgeable and will be an asset to our group as well as our church. Patsy commented on the Presentation of New Members to the Congregation on October 24, 2010. In order to be a bit more organized, for the Presentation scheduled for January 16, 2011, the new members will be asked to meet in the Bride’s room by 10:30 a.m. where they will be given their name tags and escorted to the Sanctuary about 5 minutes before the service starts. Attention does need to be given to the pews being “reserved”. Several of our new members were touched by the friendliness of our church and how they felt like they were part of a family. Note: Due to the Sanctuary being unavailable on Jan. 16, the logistics may change for that day. Gayle asked about the presentation of new members in the 11:05 a.m. service. Patsy shared that the introductions were handled differently and that, typically, none of our committee members were there. This needs to be revisited for possible modifications. The next New Member Orientation is scheduled for November 7, 2010. To date, there are 23 people signed up for this class. Elders that will be serving are: Leslie King, Janna Taylor, Randy Schorre, Gayle Smith and John Van Wagoner. In addition, Mary Lee Merrett and Martha Erwin will be in attendance. Martha shared that she and Mary Lee had been working on revamping the First Friend activity, shifting contact responsibility to a shepherding elder. She had shared the plan with Leslie; Leslie stated that she did not feel that this would work very well as they were having difficulty in getting Elders to serve in the New Member Orientation. This will be continued to be worked on….more to come. Gayle reported that she has been visiting different Sunday School classes to recruit greeters as well as folk to staff the Information Table for the 11:05 a.m. service. She has been received very well; she plans to continue to visit the classes. Mary Knapp stated that she needs two additional people for the Welcome Center/First Impressions. We will continue to seek new volunteers. Patsy reported that the Information Desk was fully staffed . The new schedule would be going out shortly. It was decided that the committee would meet the second Monday of each month, at 9:30 a.m. The next meeting, scheduled for November 8, 2010, will be a working meeting to start the dialog on the New Member Orientation class structure. The meeting was adjourned with prayer by Patsy Powell. Respectfully submitted, Patsy Powell Chair
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First Presbyterian Church of Houston Minutes of the Advisory Council November 9, 2010 The Advisory Council met on Tuesday, November 9th, at Noon, in the Pastor’s conference room. Members present: The Rev. Dr. Jim Birchfield, James Clark, Sharon Henry, Houghton Hutcheson, John Van Wagoner and Jennifer Boubel Jennifer Boubel opened the meeting with prayer. The Advisory Council discussed the agenda for the November Session Meeting. The ministry update and devotional was discussed, as well as, incorporating teaching into the agenda. We debriefed the Session Retreat which took place last week. We agreed that we were all very pleased with the retreat and felt it was a great time of community building and with staff and elders present. Sharon Henry gave a preview of the Financial Update which she will give at the Session Meeting. Dr. Birchfield shared that we are beginning to see a slight increase in the numbers measuring worship attendance. We are grateful for this and will continue to monitor. We discussed the attendance records of Sunday School classes and will review numbers at the next meeting. The Advisory Council discussed the work of the Standing Nominating Committee which is working to seat an Officer Nominating Committee. We are hopeful that the established ONC will be able to begin their work in early 2011. The meeting was closed with prayer by James Clark. Respectfully Submitted, Jennifer Boubel
Proposal to Session Alternative to In-Home FPC TV Worship November, 2010 Task Force: David Tubergen (chair), Dorothy Murphy, Gary Etgen, Jim Bettencourt, Bill Hargrove Staff Resource: Bill Heston, Steve Pitzer, Communications, AnneMarie Wallace GOAL: to develop an alternative to the televised worship service of FPC Houston for those who are related to FPC and are unable to attend the worship services. Proposal: 1. Develop from the church data base a listing of senior church members [70+] and others who have expressed interest in the TV ministry. This list is intended to serve as the starting point for a telephone survey to determine the identity and the individual needs of those who would like to participate in the proposed media ministry. Action Plan: There are approximately 250 names. December 2 and 3 are the target dates for a telephone survey which will require approximately six volunteers for an estimate of 21/2 hours each morning and afternoon those days. The task Force chair has volunteered to solicit volunteers; the Caring Ministry will develop the questionnaire format and orient the volunteers at each session. Steve Pitzer will identify telephones, space and set up for the activity.
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2. Communications Department is preparing announcements concerning the change in our program for those who cannot attend services and will put notices in Church Alive to solicit information from anyone who knows of potential beneficiaries of the alternative recorded worship services. [NOTE: this is currently being done] Action Plan: Those who respond will be contacted by the telephone volunteers. Ministers will be asked to call attention to this request in the worship services. This should be done repeatedly in November. Based on the results of completing the survey, the majority of the program clients will be identified and their individual needs such as: availability and operation capability by the ‘client’ or a caregiver of a DVD player, access to a ‘care center’ in house closed circuit broadcast, computer ‘on-line streaming’ or perhaps audio capability; will be known. 3. The Media team will make recommendations regarding the technology and method for disseminating material. Action Plan: the services be made available through the on-line streaming on the church website DVD of the service continue to be produced and made available for the in-home members worship a. DVDs be sent out every 2 weeks and thus contain 2 services in their entirety plus any other featured programs, announcements etc b. This service to be provided at no charge to members who are shut-ins. For others desiring this service it is recommended that this be provided for $5 per DVD. We believe the charge to non-members who are shut-ins should be determined by the Session. c. During the contact with those who desire to receive this service, it will be determined if ‘client’ will need a DVD player, or for a volunteer to come to their home and assist with set up and instruction for operation, etc. d. An initial budget would be required to fund the ‘start up’ of this project [perhaps a grant request to Permanent Funds at FPC could be submitted.] 4. Nursing/retirement centers used by our members will be contacted to determine whether closed circuit broadcast to the entire institution can be organized. Based on some preliminary discussions this is a good possibility. 5.The last TV broadcast will be December 26. Action Plan: The Media team will work with the pastors in preparing announcements to be made during the broadcasts for several weeks prior to going off-air to solicit potential interest in receiving the DVDs. ictor Harris
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