The July meeting of the Vestry of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Elizabeth City Parish, was called to order by the Reverend Donna-Mae Siderius at 6:40 pm. Present were Bettyrene Pope, Junior Warden, Kay Olson, Registrar, Jay Hogg, Dave Foster, Ruth Simmons, Kevin Van Sloten, Parkie Rice, Bill Rhode, John Chiasson, Peggy Hayes, Sukey Stephens and The Reverend Bob Gay. Bob Harper was absent. Also present Connie Heath, Treasurer, and Linda McMahon.
The Reflection was given by Bill Rhode, centered on the 10th chapter of Deuteronomy with a reflection of our present day ethics, trustworthiness and respect for America. Bill also provided refreshments for our enjoyment.
Donna-Mae welcomed Linda McMahon, Chairperson of the 2010 committee, to the Vestry meeting. Vestry members were asked to reflect on what excited each during the July week-end events. The consensus was the Skits performed at the Dinner were enjoyed by all attendees. Linda McMahon reminded the vestry that the year is not yet over and there are other events to follow including a Dinner catered by the Youth on October 3 with a talk given by Historian, John Quarstein; December 4th is a presentation by the Poetry Society of Virginia to honor Nicholas Ferrar, George Herbert and T. S. Eliot. We are still Walking Sole to Soul for charity. Mrs. McMahon handed out 2010 Celebration Weekend Associated Costs, which broke down the cost of the Dinner and Sunday reception. (A copy shall be attached to these minutes.)
Dave Foster, Chairperson for the St. John’s Hurricane Disaster Management Plan, wants to set in place plans and proposals for preparedness in the case of hurricanes, fire, tornados, etc. Dave said preplanning is essential to save Church related documents and articles of importance. Vestry members are to come prepared to give Dave input into what is important during such events.
Rectors Report: Office hours for the remainder of July until August 12 will be 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon. On August 16 the full office schedule will be back in place.
Greg Brauer has made a copy of the July 11, 2010 Church Service on a DVD. The DVD will be offered at a minimal charge of $10.00 for purchase with the proceeds going to Episcopal Relief and other charitable groups.
There was much activity on the Church’s Website for the “Signature Week-end” over 51 “hits” on July 11 and over 150 “hits” on Monday July 12.
The search process for a new Youth Minister is progressing very well; there is one candidate whom the committee is very interested in focusing their interests for calling to the ministry.
The Siderius’ will be vacationing from August 16 through September 4. Work on the Visioning process will continue with work groups selected and announced at the September vestry meeting.
Deacon’s Report: The vestry is proud of our youth who worked hard to plant trees in the heat. It was a job well done. Bob reminded members to keep in touch with their care groups and be sure to report anyone who needs to have communion taken to them at home. The Bishop has asked Bob to serve on the Commission Ministry to all Baptized Persons.
Junior Warden’s Report: Bettyrene Pope reported the bell tower, fences, and gates were primed and painted. The handicapped walkway outside the church was re-mortared. Mulch was placed in all the flower beds surrounding the church and parish house. The church received a thorough cleaning, thanks to Susan Edmonson, Bob Harper and Bettyrene Pope. Curtains were placed on the Sacristy windows and the shelves in the adjacent bathroom. A few light bulbs were replaced. It was a busy month but thanks to all who helped and gave of their time to prepare for “our company”. I received many compliments from numerous people about the looks of the buildings and grounds.
Renovation Committee: The Renovation Committee met on June 22, 2010. An attic walk through was conducted by Ron Quinn, John Chiasson and Larry Craig (the carpenter) compiling a list of things to be repaired in the attic structure. Larry will prepare a quote. Organ removal pricing was discussed. Total Project will cost $59,825.00. It will be done in three stages – removal, return of organ and reinstallation. Additional renovation ideas for the church were presented for consideration. The committee will continue to research the items. The outside brickwork has been completed and the floor under the first pew on the Lectionary side of the church has been replaced. The next meeting is July 15, 2010.
Minutes of the June meeting were approved as amended. The Treasurers report was approved as printed.
Tacky Lights: The mission tacky light was is still being held by Donna-Mae and the Dr. Chuck light was given by John Chiasson to Jay Hogg.
Bob Gay closed the meeting with prayer.
Submitted by Kay Olson, Registrar