St. Stephen's Memorial Episcopal Church

VESTRY SUMMARY FOR OCTOBER 16.  In October, the Vestry looked to next year. The Vestry approved a Leadership Nominating Committee for the January elections of Debbie Potter, Conrad Squires and Steve Switzer.  Pledge letters were signed and mailed along with pledge cards for Pledge Commitment Sunday. The difficult process of creating a budget for 2012 began with an extensive conversation about income. The upcoming Inclusive Home Energy Presentation, Halloween Party and Church Fair were also discussed.

A WORD FROM THE TREASURER’S OFFICE.  As I write these notes the bells of our Greek neighbors are ringing out the 6:00pm melodies. What a joy to hear church bells in the city! I remember when I was finishing college, living in a 4^th floor walk-up off Dartmouth Street in Boston’s South End, hearing a single bell counting off 10:00pm while I revised a term paper.  Living in the city brings these reminders of living in community with others.  Our St. Stephen’s community is entering the time of year when we decide what our goals and priorities will be in 2012. I urge each of you, as you consider your 2012 pledge, what it means to St. Stephen’s and to the neighborhood and community of which we are a part.  If you are already pledging, consider increasing your pledge so we can continue our work. If you are thinking about pledging in 2012, imagine what more St. Stephen’s could do if you were to pledge.  Even as we focus our attention on making our pledges for 2012, the Vestry is concerned that pledge payments are lagging.  Pledge statements just went out but, as of October, pledge payments stand just above 80%.  If we don’t bring ourselves to 100% pledge payment, we will face a serious deficit at the end of the year.  Don’t wait until Pledge Pay Up Sunday in December.  Catch up now.  We count on every person fulfilling his or her pledge.  If, for some reason, you will not be able to fulfill your pledge, please call the Treasurer.  The Vestry will make budget adjustments if we must.  November also brings our single biggest fundraiser—The Fair. Whether you come to enjoy lunch, buy or bake some baked goods, take a chance on a fabulous raffle prize, or contribute something to the array of gifts available, your participation and presence with our community is crucial to the success of The Fair on November 19.  Our community – both inside and outside these walls--depends on you and your gifts of your time, your talent & your treasure. Please let the Holy Spirit guide you as you decide what your contribution will be.  Ruthanne Switzer, Treasurer

St. Stephen's Memorial Episcopal Church

FLOWER & CANDLE THANKSGIVINGS AND MEMORIALS.  Throughout the year we decorate our altar with candles, flowers and plants.  Making a contribution to support our altar decorations is a wonderful way to offer thanks for a special occasion or anniversary.  It also is a lovely way to remember someone who has died.  This year a family volunteered to buy our Advent Wreath candles to honor their family members.  Please call the office or complete a donation form if you would like to offer thanksgiving or memorial flowers, plants or candles.

UNITED THANK OFFERING IN-GATHERING NOVEMBER 27.  The UTO supports relief and development work around the world.  Please bring in your UTO box or just add your offering to our collection on November 27 so that we can join Anglicans around the world in supporting this amazing work.  In years past, St. Stephen’s received a UTO grant to support the creation of the E-Team Machinists’ Training Program.