Parish and Diocesan Governance

VESTRY UPDATE.  In April, the Vestry focused on the collaborative campaign celebrating our success thus far having already surpassed the Diocesan goal of $250,000 and discussing the importance of 100% Vestry participation in the campaign.  Excitement is palpable as we look to reaching our fundraising goal of $450,000.  The meeting also provided an in depth look at 1^st quarter financials to understand the uneven flow of income and expense as well as the uncomfortable realities of living with a deficit budget.  The Vestry recommitted to their listening campaign, and talked about supporting fund raisers—giving thanks for Debbie Potter and her team for the Soul Food Celebration and preparing for the Big Money Raffle on July 29 led by Heather Collis Puro & Carolyn Hoy.

NORTH SHORE DEANERY MEETS AT ST. STEPHEN’S.  On May 8 at 6:00 we welcome the North Shore Deanery Assembly to St. Stephen’s.  For those who are curious about the Episcopal Church beyond our parish, the meeting provides an opportunity to meet people from our neighboring parishes and a chance to learn a little about Diocesan life.  We also need folks to help with hospitality and food as we host about 50 North Shore Episcopalians St. Stephen’s style.

GLOBAL MISSION EXCHANGE CONVERSATION MAY 5.  The Rev. Philbert Kalisa will speak about the work of reconciliation in Rwanda as the Diocese invites as all the reflect on how we engage global mission.  Speak with Rev. Jane if you would like to attend on the 5^th from 10:00-1:00.

COME CELEBRATE “DEACON” JANE’S INSTITUTION IN HAVERHILL.  On Wednesday, May 30 at 7:00pm Bishop Shaw will institute the Rev. Jane Bearden as Rector of Trinity Haverhill.  Jane spent five years at St. Stephen’s as a deacon before being ordained to the priesthood and heading to the Gulf Coast for Katrina Relief work.  Come celebrate with Jane and the people of Trinity as they celebrate their new ministry.

ST. STEPHEN’S IS THE TALK OF THE TOWN.  St. Stephen’s continues to gain Diocesan recognition.  The current “Easter Appeal” of Episcopal City Mission tells the story of our on-going work with ECCO on the state-wide youth jobs campaign and features the photo of our own Guelmi Espinal, who addressed over 1,000 people in the February Youth Jobs Rally in Boston.  In addition, the April 26 Diocesan Council meeting featured the St. Stephen’s Collaborative Campaign because we set the record for getting to our Diocesan goal faster than any other parish.

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