VESTRY SUMMARY—NOVEMBER 20, 2011. This is a challenging time for your Vestry. The Vestry discussed the 2012 pledge drive, upcoming elections, and the expense side of the 2012 budget. In addition, the Vestry heard a report from development consultant Brian Lemek about the Diocesan Collaborative Capital Campaign that could result in us working with the Diocese to raise money for St. Stephen’s and for Diocesan mission work.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE SEEKING LEADERS. The Episcopal Church at parish, Diocesan and National levels is a democratic church and we elect people to govern the church on our behalf. For example, the Diocesan Convention elected both Rev. Jane and Sam Gould to represent the Diocese of Massachusetts at the General Convention in Indianapolis this summer. Rev. Jane will co-chair the Deputation with the Hon. Byron Rushing. At our Annual Meeting on January 29, 2012 we will elect our officers and Vestry as well as our representatives to the North Shore Deanery and the Diocesan Convention. Our 2011 Nominating Committee includes Debbie Potter, Conrad Squires, and Steve Switzer. If you want to run for office or you have ideas about good candidates, please speak with the committee soon.
PLEDGE DRIVE SHOWING STRONG COMMITMENT TO ST. STEPHEN’S. The Stewardship Ministry Team is pleased to report that as of November 21, 2011 70 people have pledged a total of $85,821.93 for 2012. However, we still have a long way to go to meet our pledge goal of $135,000. To reach our goal, we need each person to pledge “For love of God and the life of St. Stephen’s.” Pledges form the largest part of our operating income. Please pledge today. During the first two weeks of December Vestry members will be calling those who have not yet pledged to encourage you to join us in supporting St. Stephen’s.
HELP 2011 END IN THE BLACK. Since St. Stephen’s depends on pledged income, our budget will be in the red if we fail to fulfill our pledges. Right now pledges are lagging a bit and we need people to catch up before the end of the year. Pledge Pay Up Sunday will be Sunday, December 18. On the 18th, Treasurer Ruthanne Switzer will post in the Galahad Area and on the Treasurer’s Office door the payment status of each pledge number. We encourage to pay up on the 18th or to make a plan for paying before the end of the year. If you don’t know or don’t have a number, Ruthanne can check your record and let you know where you stand. If our accounting and your accounting differ, please talk with Ruthanne. If you find that you will be unable to meet your pledge, please speak with Ruthanne as soon as possible. And always, if you have been blessed and can offer more than your pledge, your support is greatly appreciated.
|
