Productive Council meeting July 15, 2024..

The Council learned more about the Youth Mission Project to Dexter, Maine and an interest in expanding the calling. The prior mission to Rhode Island opened the eyes of our Church’s young people and even now two locations are being considered for the next year. The Dexter experience only intensified the interest.

The Mission topic then led to a discussion prompted by the conversation in the Moderator Moment from last month and the current expenditures of the Church. As a reminder, the Diaconate expenditures amount to just under 60% including the Pastor’s salary, music and other related expenses. The Trustees’ expenses for the office, the building and related costs are just over 30%. Christian Life (Sunday School/VBS) and Mission’s activities amount to 10%. All mission activities this year will amount to roughly 4% based on the budget the membership voted at the Annual Meeting.

To expand Mission activities the Church needs to consider the opportunity to further engage our young people as well as maintaining a solid base for all activities. As the stewardship activities ramp up to prepare for the 2025 annual meeting the Church needs everyone’s input.

This month’s Volunteer Wish List:

Do you have time to devote to upcoming activities? The Council is still searching for 1-2 volunteers for the Stewardship Committee. This will involve several meetings between September and December. The Apple Country Fair Pie Committee is looking for a baker with crust making experience for two days in October.

You can always find a snapshot of the financial status of the Church in the weekly bulletin and the newsletter. The Council has had a longstanding practice of not spending what we do not have. This summary guides the Council’s work. The Church much appreciates the generosity of our congregation, and your willingness to support the work of the Church.

The next Council Meeting is August 12th at 7PM in-person or over ZOOM. All are welcome.