The vestry of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Elizabeth City Parish, was called to order on January 17, 2017 at 6:35 pm.
Present were members Doug Miller, David Edmonson, Ann Templeman, Bettyrene Pope, The Reverend Samantha Vincent-Alexander, Rose Hobart, Mary Pat Croft, The Reverend Mark Riley, Bill Brown and Treasurer Linda Curtis. Absent from the meeting were Duncan Garnett, Val Bowen, and Youth Representative Will Olson.
Rose began with a scripture reading. Minutes from the November 2016 meeting were reviewed. A clarification was made to transfer the line item in the budget for the discretionary fund to the sabbatical fund. David made a motion to approve as amended, Rose seconded the motion and the minutes were approved as amended by the vestry.
Treasurer’s Report Pledged income was exceeded by 105% for 2016. There was a shortfall in non-pledged income and facility rental income. Doug commented that he was very encouraged especially with the increase in pledged income for 2017. Expenses were under-budget for the year. Bill asked about year-end tax statements and was told to check with Betsy Bouchard. Hoffman House budget was discussed and reminded that we do draw from that fund to supplement the church’s income. A balance of $25,000 is maintained for upcoming expenses. Outreach and the Charitable Trust were discussed. Samantha would like to see a formalized grant request process set up for these funds. Doug made a motion to pass the 2017 budget as amended to transfer the line item from the discretionary fund to the sabbatical fund, Bill seconded it and it was passed.
Rector’s Report – Come and See- Samantha reported that they had only received 16 pledges and more were needed. Only six people had shared it on Facebook and more were needed. Over 5000 cards had been mailed out with a postage cost of $1500.00 Facebook Live -Samantha’s snow-day sermon was watched on FB live by over 1750 people. Her sermons on YouTube usually have 10 hits so it appears the FB live is a more effective tool.
Assistant Rector’s Report- Mark has started John in his Bible Study group and is looking for new opportunities.
Jr. Warden Report – Bettyrene gave an update on the maintenance performed during the month. She is getting an estimate to replace the gutters. The roof repair went over. Night’s Welcome will be from February 4th to 11th . The vestry will provide and serve the dinner for Tuesday of that week. More volunteers are still needed to spend the night and prepare breakfast. The church clean-up will be this Saturday at 9 am. The oyster roast is that afternoon.
Sr. Warden Report Doug confirmed about the diocesan pledge and if that had been mailed.
The meeting was closed with prayer by Samantha and the vestry was adjourned at 7:53 pm. Submitted by Ann Templeman, registrar