St. Mark’s Lutheran Church
Council Minutes
December 15, 2011
Members Present: Sheri Barker, Frank Carson, Mike Collins, Pastor Ron Hovick, Karl Larsen, Mark Lechner, Pat Milliken, Ann-Marie Pering, Alicia Saenz
Members Absent: Mark Becerra
Non-Voting Member Present: Brett Perkins
Guest: Karen Martin
The meeting convened at 6:05 p.m. with prayer by Pastor Ron.
Change Leadership Team Meeting –
Update on Graphic Design and Logo – Sheri gave an update on the Marketing and Communication Team’s work on a new logo. Examples of different logo designs were provided. Two designs and two color combinations will be presented to the congregation for approval.
Prepare for Synod Funding Application – Instructions for applying for a grant from the Pacifica Synod Latino Ministry Endowment Fund to continue funding Alicia’s ministry were reviewed. For the past three years, the Fund provided $500 a month for her ministry at the Lemon Grove Church. Karl, Alicia, Pastor Ron and Sheri will meet to complete the application requesting $500 per month.
Review Process – Sheri reviewed the 2012 Annual Top Priority Actions. Revitalizing Care Teams was moved from Expand Outreach and Service to Strengthening Membership.
Council Business
Motion by Mark Lechner, seconded by Mike: To approve the minutes of the November 17, 2011 meeting as amended. Motion passed unanimously.
Financial Reports and 2012 Budget – Karen Martin reviewed the November financials, calling attention to the year-to-date deficit of $32,814.33. She noted that December traditionally is a very good month for donations. Brett noted that there are no big expenses coming up except the 4th quarter benevolence payment to the Pacifica Synod. There is approximately $30,000 left in non-designated funds.
In-depth discussion followed regarding the 2012 budget, benevolence payments, appropriate use of designated funds, and options for increasing revenue other than through donations. Drawing against savings to meet monthly expenses cannot continue. The budget presentation at the annual congregational meeting will focus on closing the $20,000 gap in the budget (line item Other Income). The format of the budget information for the annual meeting was discussed and a slide presentation will be included. It was pointed out that budgeted expenses for 2012 are less than budgeted 2011 expenses. It was agreed that the amount of the benevolence to Pacifica Synod would be determined at a meeting after services on January 1, 2012 or by e-mail after Karen has finalized the 2010 financial reports. Pastor Ron advocated for a theology of abundance and thinking of alternative sources of income.
Motion by Sheri, seconded by Mike: That we do our process with the congregation and recommend moving Housebuilding 2007 (33072) to Youth (36000). Motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Frank, seconded by Mark Lechner: To accept the budget as proposed. Motion passed unanimously.
A request from Alicia for sponsorship for students involved in the PALLMM program was referred to the Memorial Endowment Committee.
Old Business –
YMCA Usage of Facilities – Sheri will check with YMCA management regarding their interest in using St. Mark’s facilities.
Debit Account for Youth – Pastor Ron reported that the account has not yet been set up, but is in process.
Thrivent Choice Dollars – A slide has been prepared and has been shown at services. A link to the Thrivent Website is on St. Mark’s Website.
Licensing and TEEM Program for Alicia – Pastor Ron provided a copy of a letter addressed to Alicia and signed by Bishop Finck stating that at the December 3, 2011 meeting of the Pacifica Synod Council, the following resolve was adopted: “Resolved that Ms. Alicia Saenz be licensed to conduct Word and Sacrament ministry for the developing Hispanic Ministry at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Chula Vista, through March 10, 2012.” The letter will be put in Alicia’s file.
Committee and Core Strategy Reports for Annual Report – All reports are to be sent to Sheri by January 9.
Council Elections – Karl advised that he is still seeking candidates for the 2012-13 Council.
New Business –
Mexican Fiesta – Dates were discussed with March 31, Caesar Chavez Day, being selected. Members of the community will be invited to St. Mark’s for free tacos and entertainment.
Black Walls in Jacobson Hall – Alicia reported that some members of the congregation have asked that the black wall behind the altar in Jacobson Hall be changed to a lighter color. Discussion followed and the request was referred to the Property Committee. Brett will check with Glory Church to see if they have any objections.
Audit Committee Report – Karl had a request from the Audit Committee to change the name of the fund titled “Melody Kohl Office Fund” to something that more accurately reflects its purpose. The request was referred to the Memorial Endowment Committee.
Pastor’s Report – Pastor Ron had received two letters from Clearwire. One stated payment would be received soon. The other stated that the site was not suitable for its purposes.
Spanish Language Service Report – Alicia reported worship services are continuing. Additionally, she spoke with Spanish speaking individuals who were at St. Mark’s for food distribution from Project Hand and invited them to attend services.
Director of Operations Report – Brett had nothing further to report.
Committee Reports – There were no committee reports.
Motion by Pat, seconded by Mark: To adjourn at 9:25 p.m. Passed unanimously.
Patricia Milliken
Secretary