2011

 

 

 

 

NORWICH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH,

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

NORWICH, VERMONT

 

amended at annual meeting
Table of Contents

Section  amended after annual meeting   Page

A:	Warning of the 2011 Annual Meeting of the Norwich Congregational Church, UCC	3
B:	Draft Minutes of the 2010 Annual Meeting	3
C:	Pastor’s Report	6
D:	Church Council	8
E:	Board of Deacons	9
F:	Clerk’s Report	10
G:	Hospitality Committee	11
H:	Flower Committee	11
I:	Women's Fellowship	12
J:	Board of Christian Education	13
K:	Board of Mission	14
L:	The Dominican Republic Project	17
M:	Nominating Committee	18
N:	Board of Trustees	20
O:	Stewardship Committee	21
P:	Walter & Elizabeth Woodworth Fund	22
Q:	Investment Committee	22
R:	2010 Budget vs. Actual and 2011 Budget	25
S:	Consolidated Balance Sheet - Dec 31, 2010	29
T.	Collector’s Report 2010	31
U.	Music Committee Report	31

A:  Warning of the 2011 Annual Meeting of the  Norwich Congregational Church, UCC

 

Notice is hereby given of the 2011 Annual Meeting of the Norwich Congregational Meeting to be held after worship on Sunday, February 5, 2012, to transact the following business:

- to hold opening Prayer;

- to elect a Moderator and Assistant Moderator;

- to approve the Minutes of the 2010 Annual Meeting;*

- to discuss and adopt a budget for 2012;

- to hear and act on the reports of the officers and committees; to elect officers, boards, and committees for 2012

- to conduct whatever other business may properly be brought before the meeting.

The meeting will be preceded by a potluck lunch; please bring food to share.

In case of inclement weather, the Annual Meeting will be held at 7:30pm, Tuesday, February 7, 2012.

 

*Minutes are printed in the Annual Report.

 

B:  Draft Minutes of the 2010 Annual Meeting  Sunday, February 6, 2011

 

Brooke Mohr called the meeting to order at 11:53 AM. In attendance were 45 people, as counted by the clerk.

Mary Brownlow gave the opening prayer.

Chuck Egner moved to elect Brooke Mohr as Moderator; Marianne Spalding seconded. Brooke was elected by a unanimous vote.

Marianne Spalding moved to elect John Severinghaus as Assistant Moderator; Chuck Egner seconded. John was elected by a unanimous vote.

Sarah Reeves moved to approve the Minutes of the 2009 Annual Meeting as presented; Chipper Ashley seconded. It was noted that Gary Brooks’ name was misspelled. The minutes were approved as corrected by a unanimous vote.

A corrected version of the proposed by-laws was distributed. Mary Brownlow and Bob Miller came forward to discuss the changes and explained that the latest version corrected spelling and capitalization errors. Chuck Egner moved to approve the corrected version of the by-laws as recommended by the Church Council; Chipper Ashley seconded. 

Discussion regarding proposed by-laws:

- Mary referred to the memorandum printed on page 34 of the Annual Report outlining the substantive changes to Boards and Committees – Church Council membership was reduced from 11 to 9 members; Deacon’s membership was reduced from 8 to 6; Investment and Stewardship Committees were each reduced by 1 member; the Deacon’s term was reduced to 3 years; Associate Members can now serve on the Church Council.

- Chipper noted that the reference to the “Finance” Committee in the memorandum should be corrected to the “Investment” Committee.

- Chipper asked for clarification about the Appendix to the by-laws. Were the Chair and Vice Chair of the Church Council elected each year at the annual meeting or were they elected their first year as an at-large member? Mary referred to page 4 of the corrected by-laws which states that the at-large member in one year will automatically be nominated Vice Chair in the following year and as Chair the year following that. Brooke Mohr concurred as Nominating Committee Chair that nomination of Chair and Vice Chair of the Church Council was automatic but that the slate of candidates still needed to be approved at Annual Meeting.

- Priscilla Vincent raised a question about the size of the Stewardship Committee being reduced from a committee of 6 to a committee of 3 (2 elected members plus 1 member of the Board of Trustees). Marianne Spalding explained that the intent of the Church Council was to make changes to the by-laws that reflected what was really happening. Rather than relying on a large committee to do all the tasks, the committee would solicit other people in the congregation for specific tasks like mailings and breakfasts.

The question was called. The corrected version of the by-laws proposed by the Church Council was approved unanimously.

Mary Brownlow thanked Doug Britton for his hard work and many hours spent in front of his computer working on the by-laws.

Marianne Spalding came forward to present and discuss the 2010 Budget vs. Actual and 2011 Budget. She explained that there were 2 columns for the 2010 budget. The first column was the amounts that were presented at the 2009 annual meeting and the second column reflected the changes that occurred during the year. 2010 marked a turn-around in the church’s finances and there were no funds used from the endowment.

Chipper Ashley moved to approve the 2011 Budget as presented; Anne Broussard seconded.

Discussion regarding 2011 Budget and recommendations:

- Marianne explained that the budget includes $5,000 for a new “Youth Work Trip” line item. Previous work trips have been funded by the Woodworth Fund. Now that Mary is our settled Pastor, it was felt that work trips would be an ongoing expense that the Church should absorb. Mary Brownlow said that total cost of the trip is about $10,000 and the difference comes from various sources including fundraising.

- Marianne reported that the budget included a 2% increase for staff members excluding the Sunday School Coordinator and cleaning staff who were recently hired. The Senior Pastor salary was not increased but the equivalent of a 2% increase was budgeted into continuing education .

- The budget for the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund was reduced because of generous Christmas Eve donations.

- Tacy Colaiacomo responded to a question about the Music budget explaining the increase in maintenance costs reflected previous years of under-budgeting and the fact that we now had 3 pianos.

- Sarah Reeves expressed concern about the lower interest income from the Clevie White Fund and asked whether that would impact our ability to fund young artists in the summer. Tacy and Kathy Sherlock said that they were not concerned about sourcing funds for our Church’s custom of inviting young artists to perform during services in the summer.

- Marianne explained that the increase in the Lifeline budget was the result of moving postage into the budget to reflect the true cost

- Marianne expressed concern about the overall number of pledges. 98 pledges were received for 2011, up from 93 in 2010 but down significantly from 129 in 2009 and 130 in prior years.

The 2011 Budget was unanimously approved.

Sharon Corrigan thanked Marianne for her hard work preparing the budget and for doing such a great job of explaining it to everyone. Thanks Marianne!

Marianne Spalding came forward to present the proposal for use of funds from the parsonage sale.

 Sharon Corrigan moved to approve the proposal for use of funds from the parsonage sale as recommended by the Board of Trustees; Doug James seconded:

Discussion regarding funds from the parsonage sale:

- Willemien Miller expressed concern about title of the fund and that the term “Pastoral Ministry” didn’t reflect the fact that principal withdrawals could be made for any purpose as long as it was properly approved and included in the warning of a congregational meeting.

- After some discussion of renaming the fund, Mary Brownlow suggested we clarify the language for principal withdrawals which are intended for exceptional circumstances.

Gary Brooks moved to amend the proposal by adding “,which may include the general ministry of the Church” to the end of the first sentence under Principal Withdrawals. Paul Gerke seconded. The motion to amend the proposal was passed by a unanimous vote.

The amended proposal for use of funds from the parsonage sale was approved unanimously.

Gary Brooks moved that the Congregation recognize and thank the Board of Trustees and the Church Council for bringing about the successful sale of the parsonage and that we confirm there is no explicit or implicit commitment to the buyer to refinance after the initial 6 years; Judy Pond seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Susan White made a motion to accept all reports of the officers and committees as submitted; Katie Gerke seconded.

Discussion of Reports:

Hospitality Committee: 

- Chipper Ashley asked that we recognize all of the hard work that the Hospitality Committee did during the past year. Thank you Hospitality Committee!

 

Board of Christian Education:

- Brooke Mohr asked that we express our appreciation for the work that Christian Ed did during the transition to a single pastor and in hiring a Sunday School Coordinator. Thank you Board of Christian Ed!

The reports were accepted as submitted by a unanimous vote.

Susan White moved to elect the officers, boards and committees as recommended by the Nominating Committee; Katie Gerke seconded:

Discussion of motion to elect:

- Mary Brownlow pointed out that there were still a few key positions that remained open. The at-large member of the Church Council hasn’t been filled and the Board of Trustees and the Board of Christian Ed were understaffed.

- Judy Pond encouraged someone to come forward to fill the open Assistant Collector position.

- Brooke Mohr stated that the Council has the ability to appoint people to open positions on boards and committees during the year. 

The motion carried by a unanimous vote.

Chuck Egner moved to adjourn the meeting; Judy Pond seconded. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote at 1:10 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Joanne Egner, Clerk

 

C:  Pastor's Annual Report 2011 

 

 I think that we recited our local church covenant 15 times this year: at services of holy communion, the confirmation of two 8^th graders and the receptions of new members. At these times, we reminded ourselves of the ties that bind us together: the covenanting, the striving and the consecrating that is the work of this faith community. In 2011, I saw this work unfolding in both new and old patterns.

 Our church web site says, “We are life-long learners who seek to grow spiritually in dialogue with others.” Opportunities for spiritual formation were offered this year in the church parlor with discussions about the Bible, about worship, and about social justice issues. We heard guest speakers talk about work in military chaplaincy, and about rediscovering faith after military service. We spoke with Muslims and Quakers about compassion. Our children learned about the Bible through storytelling and play. Our confirmation classes met with me to dig deeper into the story of this community of God’s people. In all this work of spiritual formation, we are blessed with inspiring, discerning and faithful teachers. Danielle Taylor’s work with the children deserves special praise.

 Our older youth continued our tradition of a Spring Work Trip. This year, they worked hard to renovate a historic African American church and fellowship hall in Beaufort, North Carolina. These trips are always a special joy for me as I see the younger generation reach out to others and develop their skills. I see this as a ministry to our youth, to the youth of surrounding towns and churches who join us, and to the communities we serve in the South.

 Closer to home, our Called to Care Team has been keeping up their good work of maintaining contact with church members who can’t get to worship as often as they’d like. These friendly visits keep our covenantal ties strong. Judy Pond has done a great job of keeping us organized and informed. We hope to grow and develop the work of this team in the coming year.

 When Tropical Storm Irene struck Vermont at the end of the summer, we found ways to cooperate with neighboring churches to assist those most affected. Non-perishables and casseroles flowed out of our kitchens for months following the storm. As a new year unfolds, we will continue to discern how best to meet the ongoing needs of flood relief.

 I am always impressed by the ways we give hospitality to our neighbors. At times, this takes the form of offering memorial services for non-church members, with wonderful music and beautiful receptions to follow. We also continue to host 12 step groups, bereavement groups, and a monthly class of V.A.S.T., an adult education course of the Vermont Conference of the UCC. The monthly Noon Neighbors Luncheon makes good use of our kitchen and parish hall (and feeds the pastor a delicious lunch). This year, we made a big leap with renting space during the week to a number of new tenants, including the Norwich After School Program, driver’s education classes, dance classes, pilates classes, and violin lessons. This expanded use of our facilities makes the space feel vibrant and well-used. Tenants often express their gratitude to me, and I accept their words on your behalf.

 In July, we hosted a union worship service with St Barnabas Episcopal Church and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Upper Valley. The breakfast, worship and coffee hour that day were examples of cooperation and good will. Later, we cooperated with those communities and others to work on caring for those impacted by Tropical Storm Irene. This blend of sharing worship and service is particularly rewarding.

 Of course, as a family of faith we celebrated milestones together. Some were joyful, such as honoring graduating high school students and the baptism of infants. Other were more poignant, as we mourned the passing of faithful members: Bud Eaton, Jerry Hickson, Homer Jernigan, Barbara Britton, Don Goss, and Bob Downs. I treasure this church as a place that can hold these joys and sorrows with sensitivity and integrity.

 As we look into a New Year, we continue to contemplate transitions. Our office manager, Carol Jackson, is leaving us to pursue creative endeavors in writing and music. We are grateful for her time with us and wish her well. We will be seeking to employ the talents and energy of new board and committee members after annual meeting. Through all the changes, I ask myself, “Where is our growing edge? To what new paths of ministry are we being called?” This is not just thinking about strategies to “grow the church.” I am aware that faith communities have to look deeper than numbers to discern the liveliness of their spiritual health. In the coming year, as we study and worship, offer hospitality and dialogue, as we reach out to each other and to strangers, I will keep the words of our church covenant in mind. I see great potential in our hearing and doing the Word, “firm in faith, quickened in hope, and constant in love.”

 

 Blessings,

Mary

D: Church Council Annual Report

 

The Norwich Congregational Church Council is responsible for coordinating and implementing church policy and overseeing the operational activities of the church. The council is composed of a chair, vice-chair and an at-large member who are elected at the annual meeting, and two members from each of the four boards, Christian Education, Deacons, Mission and Trustees, who are appointed by their boards. The church clerk attends meetings to take minutes, which are printed in the LIFELINE, the church’s monthly newsletter. The clerk is a non-voting member of the council.

 

This was the first full year of Mary Brownlow’s appointment as the sole pastor for NCC. It was evident to the Council and from feedback from the congregation that Mary has quickly settled into the new position and was exceeding expectations as our new worship leader. In addition to Mary, Danielle Taylor, the new Church School Coordinator was introduced to the council. Since coming aboard Danielle has been very effective in improving the level of programming in the Church School and attracting more children to the program.

 

This year a suggestion was made and approved that the council not meet during Lent, meaning that the March meeting was cancelled. In addition, due to the lack of critical issues that required council attention and the anticipated absences of council members during mid-summer, there was no meeting in July.

 

Early in the year the council discussed the subject of a Communications and Outreach Committee. This was one of a series of recommendations that came out of the prior summer’s cottage meetings that were called to examine new initiatives for the boards to consider. Out of the discussions came a decision to create an ad hoc committee for improved communications to the entire church. The main effort was a revamping of the Church’s website, much of this work being done by Carol Jackson. At this time the committee is in the process of finalizing and getting approval of the new site. It is hoped that all the work and installation of the site will be completed early in the new year. One other recommendation was for creation of a new church brochure. 

 

Mary reported that she was putting out a call to each staff member to write a job description for their position if one did not exist. This work was completed in the early summer. That led to an evaluation of the staff that was completed by summer’s end.

 

At a meeting the question was asked as to whether the church should have a policy about renting space to political candidates and/or organizations. The council discussed the matter but did not feel there was enough of an issue to create a policy.

 

Susan White has given much thought to the matter of church leadership taking time to examine the future life of the church. She urged each board to think about extending their first meeting in February/March to include a discussions of larger issues and to think about what they will be doing over the new year and why. This is something the Deacons have done for a while and report it has been helpful. The Council agreed this was a good idea and would be valuable in helping the boards define the “big picture” before setting to work.

The above report is just a small part of the items that have been dealt with or reported to Church Council in 2011. The congregation is urged to read the entire report in order to get a total picture of all the activities carried out by the boards and committees. It is always gratifying to read these reports and thereby gain an appreciation of how much Norwich Congregational Church contributes to the spiritual life of its immediate family and to the larger Upper Valley community and beyond.

 

Respectfully submitted

Richard Broussard

Chairman, Church Council

 

2011 Church Council Members: Dick Broussard, Chair; Susan White,Vice-chair; Bob Miller,  at-large member; Gary Brooks and Willimien Miller, Deacons; Tom Evans & Stan Williams, Trustees; Laura Beliveau, Christian Ed; and Deborah Berryman , Mission.

 

E:  Board of Deacons Annual Report 2011

 

 2011 was a “settling in” year for the deacons, adjusting to our new 6 person size, working with Mary during her first full year as minister, and following up on various ideas coming out of the Cottage Meetings held in 2010. 

 

 The Deacons (Willemien Miller, Gary Brooks, Christopher Ashley, Paul Gerke, Sharon Corrigan and Rita Severinghaus) have responsibility for the Church ministry and overseeing the Flower, Music and Hospitality Committees. In the traditional manner, we served Communion, acted as Greeters and Worship Leaders, and tried to support Mary in her pastoral duties, including her annual evaluation. We also arranged pulpit supply when Mary had to be away.

 

 The year began well with a retreat to Mary’s house to focus on important Church issues and priorities, and to engage in some exercises to build our “team”. The main focus of the retreat was our Church Image and Identity.

 

 During the year the Deacons followed-up and/or implemented a number of the Recommendations for the Board of Deacons that resulted from the Cottage Meetings. Earlier Church services were held during the month of August. As compared to 2009 and 2010, the first and last Sundays of August were less well attended and the 2 middle Sundays were similarly or better attended. Member-participation during Church services was continued. The Church bell now rings prior to Sunday service. We held a successful joint service with the Unitarian and Episcopalian Churches in July. The Deacons have held get-togethers of those who were not able to attend last year or have come to the Church since then. We hope the spirit of the Cottage Meetings will be extended and reinforced through this process.

 

 After several years of dealing with transition issues, it was a pleasure to be able to concentrate more on the spiritual life of the Church. We have been pleased to see Mary’s ministry blossom and to see the new energy brought by new members and more children in the Church.

 

 Respectfully submitted,

 Willemien Miller and Gary Brooks, Senior Deacons

 

F: Clerk’s Report 2011

 

Membership:  298 Members; 11 Associate Members

 

Baptisms: Willa Kaufman  April 10, 2011

 Isabel Calsbeek October 23, 2011

 

Confirmations: Abagail Jacobs April 10, 2011

 Willa Kaufman April 10, 2011

 

Deaths: Walter “Bud” Eaton March 8, 2011

 Jerome Hickson April 9, 2011

 Homer Jernigan July 28, 2011

Barbara Britton August 16, 2011

Don Goss   October 12, 2011

Robert Downs November 12, 2011

 Louise Hansen  December 27, 2011

 

Transfers Out: Robert Blake

 Melody Blake

David Johnstone

 Heather Sanford

Steve Voight 

 

New Members: Mark Beams L May 29, 2011

(A=Affirmation of Yoon Jang A May 29, 2011

Faith, L=Letter of Christina Megli A May 29, 2011

Transfer)  Heidi Webster L May 29, 2011 

 Beth Bidstrup A December 18, 2011

 Steven Bidstrup A December 18, 2011

Brittny Calsbeek A December 18, 2011

 Ryan Calsbeek A December 18, 2011

 Joseph Caterini A December 18, 2011

 Molly Caterini A December 18, 2011

 Evelyn Ellis A December 18, 2011

Patricia Polk A December 18, 2011

 

New Associate Ann Beams May 29, 2011

Members: 

 

If you notice errors or omissions, please contact the clerk or church office as soon as possible.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Joanne C. Egner, Clerk

December 30, 2011

 

G: Hospitality Committee Report 2011

 

The committee is grateful to the many volunteers who have helped so generously by hosting coffee hours following our Sunday worship services, and by contributing to memorial services, church gatherings and celebrations throughout the year. 

 

Since our 2011 Annual Meeting the Hospitality Committee has been involved in and/or hosted 3 funeral receptions, an interfaith breakfast, the stewardship luncheon and the Church picnic. Working together with the congregation on these events has been very gratifying for all of us..

 

As a committee we hoped to plan a church event that involved cooking together, but that idea did not materialize exactly as we had planned Instead, inspired by the work of the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in White River Junction, and spurred on by Stephanie Smith, we decided to help the local families whose homes had been flooded by Tropical Storm Irene by making meals for them. Supported by several members of our congregation, we held two Saturday afternoon cooking marathons, making several dozen quiches and lasagnas which were later delivered to those who were still without functioning kitchens. This project is ongoing, although the urgency and scope of it is greatly diminished. 

 

We have attempted to keep the kitchen organized and supplied with items needed for church events. Our expenses this year have come in under budget, largely due to donations by the congregation.  The committee would especially like to thank the Noon Neighbors for their monetary donations. It is a pleasure sharing our kitchen with them.

 

Our wish for the coming year is that we will be able to add to our number of volunteers. The coffee hour instructions are included on the Church website, and are posted in the kitchen. Our committee is always available to answer questions and to assist or guide new hosts.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Joan Wanner, Anne Egner, Evelyn Gick, Susan McGrew and Stephanie Smith

 

H: Flower Committee Annual Report 2011

 

The chief responsibility of the Flower Committee is to schedule the donation of altar flowers. We also often deliver the flowers after the service to a person or place where they will be appreciated, often the Norwich Senior Housing Center.

 

Holiday flowers for Christmas and Easter are a joint effort between the church office, the Flower Committee and many wonderful volunteers.

 

At Advent and Christmas time there are special donations, such the Altar wreath given in loving memory of Betty and Woody Woodworth, who, when they were alive, always

donated this particular wreath. Our front doors have wreaths donated by the Flower Committee. Gretchen Maynard and her family give the sanctuary wreaths, and all the lovely decorations were beautifully hung around by the Junior Youth Group. The tree was a lovely gift. Marty and Doug James and Mary Brownlow cut the sanctuary tree this year; the Parish Hall tree was purchased. The Catherwood family has given us the beautiful hurricane lamps for the window sills. The youth and various "young- at- hearters" decorate the sanctuary, eat, and sing carols on the first Sunday of Advent. We wish to thank all of those who helped out this year.

 

On Palm Sunday, the Flower Committee provides a “greens” arrangement as well

as palms for the service.

 

On Easter and Christmas Eve, those who wish may donate Easter lilies or poinsettias to add to the floral decorations. This year we had many poinsettias, which added enormous beauty on Christmas Eve and the weeks following. Many thanks from your grateful flower committee and general congregation to those who donated poinsettias and to those who donated lilies at Easter time.

 

Thank you to Marty James, and her “out-side” garden committee who maintain the church gardens, And, thanks to Marty for rehabilitating the geraniums on the window sills, now maintained beautifully by Ryan Adams.

 

The Flower Committee extends sincere thanks to the congregation for its generous and thoughtful support in providing us with the many different kinds of floral arrangements that add such beauty to our Church and to the worship services.

.

Respectfully submitted,

Ryan Adams, Tilda White, Deb van Arman

 

I: Women's Fellowship Annual Report 2011

 

This was another successful; year for the  Fellowship.We met at the home of Anne Broussard and at the church to quilt projects for our Nov. 5^th church Christmas bazaar. The quilt raffle was won by Pat Blokerman from Lyme, NH and those proceeds went to the Upper Valley Haven Food Shelf.

 

Many of us joined together to prepare for and sell at the week-long rummage sale in July. We made over $2500 at this event. This was donated to our Church.

 

W hosted the Women of Our Savior Lutheran Church from Hanover, NH twice in the summer for world disaster relief quilt preparation.

 

A monthly book group meets at homes all year on the third Thursday of the month. All are welcome to join us.

 

 

We donated:

 

$1000	Upper Valley Haven food shelf
$100	In Memory of Peg Post
$78	Diapers for Hannah’s House
$250	Financial aid for VT to enter college
$250	Partners in Service student stocking stuffers

 

 Submitted by Deb Berryman and Anne Broussard

 

J:  Board of Christian Education Annual Report 2011

 

This year has been an exciting year of growth and development for our Christian Education program, particularly for the Sunday School.  In January 2011, Danielle Taylor came on board as our Sunday School Coordinator.  Her teaching, creative, and organizational talents and her consistent presence have helped our Sunday School grow tremendously.  We have a vibrant Sunday School program once again.  Danielle has a positive and firm presence in our multi-age classroom.  

This year the Sunday School is using the Godly Play curriculum.  We have moved our classroom and nursery space from the basement to the sunny and comfortable classrooms on the second floor.  Godly Play engages the children at their own educational, developmental and spiritual level and teaches them more about the Bible and about faith, both historically and in their own lives today.  Typically, the children gather all together for circle time and the Godly Play lesson.  After the lesson, they break out into two groups, based on the choice of activity they would prefer.  There are approximately 30 children who have attended classes or been in the nursery between September and December.

The Church offered Vacation Bible School (VBS) this summer for the second year in a row.  Thirteen children attended VBS and three declared that they wished it would last all summer long!  Danielle and Mary created their own curriculum based on Circles of Care-- care for self, care for the community, care for all people, care for the earth.  Many church members volunteered with VBS, either as presenters, performers, or counselors.  The inter-generational relationships fostered at VBS exemplify the best of our Church's strengths and aspirations.

One place the Board seeks to improve consistency and quality of care is our nursery.  We sense that parents of our youngest members might feel more comfortable with a more mature and consistent presence in the Nursery.  To that end, the Board is looking at hiring a regular Nursery Coordinator.  No one has been hired as of yet.

Mary Brownlow is leading a Confirmation class for five eighth graders this academic year and confirmed 2 eighth graders last spring.  This year's confirmation class has been serving as helpers in the Sunday School and nursery.  This work both helps the christian education program and gives these students an opportunity to provide service to the church.

Adult Education programs were offered throughout the year, with an effort to provide offerings at different times of day to accommodate a variety of scheduling needs. In January, Harry Higgs organized three Sunday evening Guest Talks on "God and Life."  During Lent we had a Lenten Study in which Sarah Reeves led a book study of Marcus Borg's Conversations with Scripture: The Gospel of Mark.  In May, Mary Brownlow led a class on "The Story of Jonah in 3 Traditions: Jewish, Christian and Muslim readings."  In June, Kenneth Cracknell led a class on Marcus Borg's Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time.  In September and October, Mary Brownlow led a discussion Group on Karen Armstrong's 12 Steps to a Compassionate Life.  In October, Susan White led a class on "The How, Why, Who & When of Worship."  And in November, Kenneth Cracknell led a class a class titled "Is That Good Doctrine?"

Mary Brownlow re-instituted the Wednesday Bible Study starting in September with a new morning meeting time and the theme of Sacred Places, Sacred Journeys.

Mary Brownlow also held the annual Women's Retreat at her house in November.  The program was very well attended.

The Board thanks all those who led and participated in Christian education programs this year.  We would especially like to thank all of the Sunday School teachers, those who organized Adult Education programs, and those who presented at various programs and VBS.  Please consider volunteering this year.  Working with Danielle is a pleasure and provides an opportunity to work with the children of the congregation without extensive preparation or classroom discipline demands.

Respectfully submitted,

The Board of Christian Education

Laura Beliveau, Harry Higgs, Marty James, Mary Sachsse, and Ann Beams

 

K: Board of Mission Annual Report 2011

 

2011 Board members: Deb Berryman, Mary Brown, Doug Britton, Kathy Grant, Jeff Nielsen and Jenny Williams

 

The Board would like to thank the staff and members of NCC who have helped us achieve the following responsibilities:

• Managing our annual NCC budget and monthly mission collections.
• Exploring and discussing volunteer-related service initiatives which enhance our church mission.

 

Accomplishments: In-Kind Contributions - Upper Valley Focus

The Board solicits volunteers to prepare monthly dinners for physicians and staff volunteers at the Good Neighbor Health Clinic in White River Junction. The Clinic provides quality medical care to Upper Valley residents in medical need but without the means to pay.

 

Vicky Fish collaborates with the Listen Center to organize bi-monthly Community Dinners in White River Junction. Church volunteers prepare and serve dinner for those in need of a healthy, hot meal. 

 

Sharon Corrigan (former Mission Board Chair) continues to coordinate the church’s involvement in the Hartford-Norwich Holiday Basket Project, a program that provides gifts to families who are not able to afford presents for their children at Christmas. In 2011, church members gave generously and we were able provide a total of 30 gifts for 6 children, in addition to Christmas stockings and stuffers for 8 children through the PINS program. We also collected $80 for the PINS program. 

 

Accomplishments: In-Kind Contributions - National and International Focus

 

The Board of Missions continues to support the Dominican Republic Project (DRP) with church member Rita Severinghaus, founder of DRP, keeping us abreast of the activities happening in Cotui, DR. The organization’s mission focuses on a commitment to sustainable community initiatives for women, children, and their families in the area of health, education and the environment.

 

Deb Berryman, Stephanie Smith and Joan Wanner have been cooking and delivering meals this fall to victims of Hurricane Irene living on Route 14. 

 

Mary Brownlow hopes to coordinate another work session of high school youth to work on burned churches in the spring of 2012.

 

Accomplishments: 2011 Monthly Mission Collection

 

January - February	DRP Wheelchair Fund	$1289
March - April	One Great Hour of Sharing - UCC	$1256
May - June	Willing Hands	$1217
July - August	Camp Coniston	$507
Sept - October	Neighbors in Need	$1172
Nov - December	The Christmas Fund - UCC	$2,195.25
December	Christmas Eve / Pastor’s Discretionary Fund	5,862.25
TOTAL COLLECTIONS		$12,854.50

 

Accomplishments: 2011 Special Collections:

 

Japanese Disaster Relief: $300

Hurricane Irene Relief: $1,330

The Family Place: $534. This was a special collection taken on July 31, as part of a union service with the Episcopalians and the Unitarians. These funds were contributed by all three churches. 

 

Accomplishments: 2011 Church Budget Allocation:

 

COVER Home Repair		$ 1,000
Hannah House		$ 1,000
WISE of the Upper Valley		$ 1,000
Bugbee Senior Center		$ 1,000
High Horses	(this included $190 from Ellison and $24 from Hazen Fund)	$ 800
TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATION		$ 4,800.00

 

 

In addition, $147 was donated from the Clevie White Fund at our church, to the Clevie White Independent Living Fund within Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS) Vermont.

This grant supports the HCRS staff who help clients move from community care to their own apartments. The Clevie White Fund was established at our church in 1996, in memory of Clevie White, son of Tilda and Stu White, brother to Laura Bradley White, who died in his late 20’s after a long battle with ALS and a bout of cancer. An additional gift of $53 was also made from the Hazen fund to the Clevie White Independent Living Fund within HCRS VT.

 

Full descriptions of the designated organizations are available from the Board of Missions.

 

Other Accomplishments:

In addition to facilitating fund distribution and coordinating in-kind services to charitable organizations, the Mission Board accomplished the following:

• Welcomed new board members and created orientation notebook for each
• Deliberated the allocation of donations with a special focus on projects that support Upper Valley community basic needs such as food, shelter and fuel.
• Continued to support national programs of the United Church of Christ.
• Provided bi-monthly articles for Lifeline and the Bulletin during the 1^st or 2^nd service of the month to more fully describe selected charities to the congregation.

 

 

 

 

L: Dominican Republic Project

 

Our efforts in Cotui, Dominican Republic have continued under the auspices of our church, although anticipating bringing church sponsorship to a close and transitioning to a 501 (c) 3 structure.

 

Initiatives started by Rita Severinghaus in 1998 under the support of the Board of Missions included: La Colonia Community Center, Bake Oven initiative, Women's Cooperative, Child Sponsor program, and support through funding and equipment donation at the Lions Club Nursing Home and Opthalmology Diabetes Health Center for the Indigent, and more recently, construction of a rural health clinic (2009-2011) as well as construction of energy efficient stoves, and a collaborative intitiave through Free Wheelchair Mission and the Miami NE Latino Lion's Club. 

 

2011 began with preparations for a group trip in April.  Rita was joined by two members from NCC-UCC and several members from our community including the Director of Operations(Baking) at King Arthur Flour. This is a strong long-term relationship which has continued in support of the baking initiative started in 2005 by the construction of community bake ovens. 

Trip participants had the opportunity to visit the site of the rural clinic under construction, a collaborative effort between Rita, the Peace Corps and the Ministry of Health.  We also visited local hospitals and health centers.

In addition baking activities were held with two village communities and a community health screening clinic was held were trip participants assisted with blood pressure screening, also distributing dental hygiene supplies and school supplies.

The highlight of our visit was punctuated by training workshops held for the women's craft initiative; this group of now 26 women continue their weekly meetings which involve recycling plastic bags and crocheting beautiful functional handbags and totes. To date more than 500,000 used plastic bags from the Upper Valley have been transported by trip participants to Cotui.

A significant accomplishment last year was the inauguration on October 21, 2011 of the El Limon Rural Health Clinic. Primary funding support was received in 2009 from St. Paul's Episcopal Church as well as donations from Norwich Lion's Club members, Peace Corps, NCC-BOM, Cotui community and Dom. Rep. Ministry of Health.  The community of El Limon has close to 1000 residents of which approximately 200 are children living in marginal health conditions and limited access to health services. The health center is now run and staffed by the Ministry of Health.

 

Another significant accomplishment very much under way in 2011 was the establishment of a formal NGO under Dominican Republic law.  "Uniendo Manos Dominicanas" is now a registered name, an international board composed of Cotui as well as Upper Valley members has proceeded to file articles of incorporation. Rita is being assisted by a business incubator company located in Cotui and supported by Canada and Taiwan. We hope this process will further support the work of many years and strengthen business opportunities for the women's cooperative. The women's cooperative founded on cooperative principles will be legalized under the Dominican national cooperative system (IDECOOP).

Regarding NGO status in the US, options have been explored this past year and it is anticipated that before June 2012 a formalized structure will be defined as an umbrella organization to Dominican Republic Projects initiatives.  Plans are well under way for group trip #13 of UV health providers; this is planned for March 5-12, 2012.  The invitation is always extended to our church membership to join us during one of our community development project trips; we anticipate this is slated for Janurary 2013.

 

Current estimated financial status as follows:

Total assets: $16,000

Targeted programs:  $9,000

Seed funding:           $3,200

Targeted donations: $3,800

 

Respectfully submitted,

Margarita Ruiz Severinghaus

Founder, Dominican Republic Projects

 

M:  Nominating Committee Report 2011

 Proposed Slate of Officers for Annual Meeting

 

Officers:

Church Council Chair:  Susan White

Vice Chair Bob Miller

Clerk: Joanne Egner

Asst. Clerk: Katie Gerke

Treasurer: Christopher Ashley

Asst Treasurer Jim Hourdequin

Moderator: John Severinghaus

Asst Moderator:  Need to Fill amended at annual meeting Carolyn Mertz

Collector/Asst collector: Judy Pond

Auditor: Need to Fill

 

Other Leadership Positions:

At Large, Church Council Chuck Egner

Head Usher Willemein Miller

Historian: Susan White (and need a co-historian)

Delegates Avery Post & Kenneth Cracknell

Alt. Delegate Katherine Broussard

 

Board of Deacons

Chair Paul Gerke

Chair Sharon Corrigan

2^nd Year Rita Severinghaus

2^nd Year Chipper Ashley

1^st Year Richard Broussard

1^st Year Hillary White

 

Board of Trustees

Doug James 2013

Carolyn Mertz 2013

Stan Williams 2014

Dan Van Dorn 2014

Avery Post 2015

Need To Fill 2015

 

Flower Committee

Tilda White 2013

Ryan Adams 2014

Deb Van Arman 2014

 

Nominating Committee

Barbara Duncan 2013

Ann Waterfall 2014

Katy Gerke  2015

 

Hospitality Committee

Anne Egner 2013

Joan Wanner 2013

Susan McGrew 2014

Stephanie Smith 2014

Evelyn Gick 2015

 

Stewardship

Priscilla Vincent 2013

Need to fill

 

Board of Christian Ed

Beth Bidstrup   2013

Mary Sachsse 2013

Ann Beams 2014

Laura Beliveau 2014 (agreed to two more years)

Harry Higgs (agreed to one more year) (2013)

Need to Fill 2015

 

Board of Mission

3^rd Year Deb Berryman (2013)

3^rd Year Jeff Nelsen (2013)

2^nd Year Doug Britton (2014)

2^nd Year Kathy Grant (2014)

1^st Year Heidi Webster (2015)

1^st Year Vicky Fish (2015)

 

Investment Committee

Peter Mertz 2013

Mark Beliveau 2014

Woodworth Committee 

Judy Hobbs 2013 

Mimi Simpson 2013 

Kenneth Cracknell 2014 

Doug James 2014

Jenny Williams 2015

Marianne Spalding 2015 

 

Music Committee

Sarah Reeves amended at annual meeting to Don Helms 

Need to fill

Need to fill

 

N: Board of Trustees Annual Report 2011 

 

The 2011 Board of Trustees was chaired by Tom Evans.  Carolyn Mertz, Stan Williams, Doug James, Dan Van Dorn, and Brooke Mohr comprised the remainder of the Trustees.

 

2011 Results

 

The trustees thankfully report that in 2011 the church’s finances remained relatively strong. We ended the year with net income of $-211, despite not using any parsonage sales interest, which was returned to the endowment, and over $16,000 in uncollected pledges. This was possible due largely to lower levels of spending in pastoral and office categories.

 

In 2011, we budgeted net income of $0 and total revenue as $286,863 with expenses of $269,440. Actual figures were -$211 , $261,800, and $262,012, respectively.

 above amended at annual meeting to $5600

NCC’s infrastructure continued to present financial challenges, particularly in areas such as temperature and humidity control.

 

Endowment results can be found in the Investment Committee Report.

 

2012 Budget

 

Revenue is projected at approximately $278,872 which is approximately $17,000 more than the 2011 actual figure due partially to strong pledges and rental income. As of December 31, we had received pledges of over $221,000 vs. $216,000 pledged last year. In the past few years we have enjoyed the benefit of receiving pledges and gifts in excess of projections - we are hopeful that will occur in 2012 as well.

 

Expenses are projected at $275,855, an increase of over $13,000 from 2011 due to a 2% salary increase and returns to historical levels of spending in most departments after several years of flat or declining spending. Net income is projected at $3,017 with no use of parsonage sale interest.

 

Summary

 

We are thankful that pledge levels have increased at a pace similar to the rate of inflation, and are hopeful that levels of uncollected pledges will return to historical levels.

 

Although interest income from the parsonage sale gives us a predictable stream of revenue which can be used at the discretion of the trustees to support current pastoral ministry and housing expenses, we hope to continue to be able to add these funds to the endowment. 

 

Though most controllable expenses have been flat or declining for several years, other significant expenses such as health care continue to rise and will continue to do so in the future.  The trustees also expect that areas of the physical infrastructure of the church (such as steeple and clock) will require attention in the future. We have been planning the institution of a more formal planned giving program and are hopeful that such a program will provide some of the resources required to address major capital projects. One simple way members can participate in this planned giving program would be to include the church in their estate plans.

 

Many thanks to departing trustee (and jack-of-all-trades) Brooke Mohr. The trustees wish to recognize her immense contributions to all aspects of church life and wish her well in balmier climes. The trustees also again thank every church member and non-member and every church employee for their participation and contributions to the church.

 

Respectfully submitted,

 

NCC Board of Trustees: Carolyn Mertz, Stan Williams, Doug James, Dan Van Dorn, Brooke Mohr, Tom Evans - Chair

 

O: Stewardship Committee Report 2011

 

 As the New Year begins we are pleased to report that the fall 2012 Stewardship Campaign has resulted in 98 pledges totaling $221,495 which represents an increase of $5,635 over last year’s total of $215,860. 

 The campaign began with a mailing to the congregation in early October that included letters from Rev. Mary Brownlow and the Stewardship Committee as well as a message from the Board of Trustees. The theme was the “Harvest Covenant” and Rev. Brownlow very creatively included stewardship messages in the children’s talks over three consecutive Sundays. 

 On October 9th the focus was on “Planting the Seedlings” with an emphasis on the work of our church with the youth in our community. Seed packets were distributed by the children to all the attending members of the congregation.

 On October 16th turned our thoughts to “Nurturing and Tending our Church Community” and the many ways that we support and care for each other.

 On October 23rd, in keeping with the “Cultivating Our Church’s Mission in the Wider Community”, we heard brief testimonies from members of the congregation who volunteer with local community dinners and Upper Valley organizations such as Willing Hands, the No One Alone program with the DHMC Palliative Care Service, Dismas House, and Good Beginnings.

 The official campaign culminated with a brunch for over fifty members and friends which was hosted by the Hospitality and Stewardship Committees. “Celebrating the Harvest and Gathering In” with joy and enthusiasm captured the spirit!

 By November 12th we had received commitments from 73 people which totaled $191,270. Thirty follow-up letters were mailed out by mid November and 25 additional pledges were received by year end adding $30,225 to the total. 

 A special note of thanks to my fellow committee member, Priscilla Vincent, for her willingness to answer any call for help and assistance throughout the campaign.

 Thank you to each and everyone who responded to the call to stewardship for sharing your blessings with such generosity and for being partners in this journey of faith.

 

 Respectfully submitted, 

 Gretchen W. Maynard, Chair

 

P: Walter and Elizabeth Woodworth Fund

 Annual Report 2011

 

Beginning balance of  $26,733.38.

Interest earned: $73.78

 

Income: $9433.20

  $9433.20

  $ 5548.60 catch up payment for prior years

  total income: $24,415.00.

 

The following are the grants issued in 2011:

NCC youth trip $2500 used for 2011

NCC youth trip $2500 being held for 2012

V.B.S. supplies$ 200.00

V.B.S. coordinator $750.00

Child Fund International (Linda’s) $423.00

February 2011 Musical Event $1200.00

 

Balance $43,649.16

 

Q: Investment Committee Annual Report for 2011

 

The Investment Committee oversees church funds that have been given in the past for general use or for specific purposes (see tables below).  As of year-end 2011. the Trust Funds balance totaled $366,443 up $57,584 or 18.6% over the year-end 2010 value of $308,859. The primary reason for the size of the increase was the receipt of proceeds from the sale of the Parsonage.

The Trust Fund monies are primarily invested in two of the United Church Foundation's family of socially responsible funds, around 8% in an equity fund, which invests primarily in US stocks (approx. 75% US stocks and 25% in ex-US stocks) and a bit less than 75% in a moderate balanced fund – a 65/35 mix of stocks and bonds.  Nearly 18% is invested in a Vanguard fund which invests in Intermediate Term US Treasury obligations.

 

The investment mix works out to 56% equity and 44% fixed income. As in past years, we will continue to monitor this asset allocation and make appropriate adjustments if warranted.

 

Each year the church uses 4.5% of its "non-restricted" endowment (about 49% of total) to fund annual operating expenses.  This endowment spend rate is conservative and is consistent the practice of other endowments. Disbursements of as much as $14,018 were budgeted for use in 2011: $6,687 based on the spend rate noted above and up to $7,331 from the interest received from mortgage payments in connection with the Parsonage sale. For 2012, the Investment Committee has recommended a transfer of $6,965 to fund operating expenses, subject to Congregational approval of the budget.

 

As noted in our report last year, the church does not regularly receive very many substantial gifts or bequests to increase its "endowment”.  The Investment Committee would encourage those of you who are drawing up or changing your will to consider including a legacy gift to the NCC Trust Fund.

 

Respectfully submitted,

NCC Investment Committee: Peter Mertz and Mark Beliveau

 

Table 1: Changes in Value of Investment Accounts during 2011

 

Balance as of 12/31/2010 $309,859

Transfers out for 2011 expenditures  -10,370

Transfers in from Parsonage sale  64,951

Net change in investment value  -5,363 

Ending Balance as of 12/31/2011 $366,443

 

Table 2: Trust Fund Holdings as of December 31, 2011

 

United Church Foundation Moderate Balanced Fund $273,392

(65% equities; 35% bonds)

United Church Foundation Equity Fund    27,988

(55% domestic core equity; 20% small cap equity; 25% international equity)

Vanguard Intermediate term Treasury Fund    65,062

Total Investment Funds $366,443

 

Table 3: Allocation of Investment Funds to Individual Trust Accounts as of 12/31/2011

 

Unrestricted Use Funds  Amount Percentage

General $117,263 32.0% 

Flower Fund   16,651  4.5% 

Help for Needy Fund  1,739  0.5%

Ellison Fund

 SAM  4,278  1.2%

 Music  4,278  1.2%

Subtotal Unrestricted Funds  144,209  39.4%

 

Restricted Purpose Funds (incl. interest balances) Interest Balance

Sargent Painting Fund  $53,484  14.6%    $4,250

Charles Judd Clock Repair Fund  17,799  4.9%  2,223

Pastoral Ministry and Housing Support  64,951  17.8%  14,870 

Preaching Fund  26,777  7.3%  997

Subtotal Restricted Use Funds  163,011  44.5%

 

Restricted Purpose – Income Only Funds (incl. interest balances)

Waterman Building Maintenance Fund  $26,344  7.2%  $564

Merrill Bible Fund  3,964  1.1%  85 

Mitten Fund  13,216  3.7%   289

Clevie White Memorial Fund  15,410  4.2%  339

Subtotal Income Use Only Funds  59,223  16.2%

 

Total Trust Funds $366,443  100.0%

 

NOTE: Columns may not add due to rounding. Pastoral Ministry and Housing Support is a new fund that segregates the proceeds from the Parsonage sale.

 

Table 4: Nine Year Historic Perspective on the Value of Trust Fund Accounts

 

Balance as of 12/31/2003 $319,050

Balance as of 12/31/2004 $339,014

Balance as of 12/31/2005 $343,213

Balance as of 12/31/2006 $383,217

Balance as of 12/31/2007 $381,965

Balance as of 12/31/2008 $264,455

Balance as of 12/31/2009 $284,409

Balance as of 12/31/2010 $308,859

Balance as of 12/31/2010 $366,443

 

 

R: 2011 Budget VS. Actual and 2012 Budget
						Proposed				Actual as				Proposed
Acct.#	Account Name					Budget 2011				of 12/31/11				Budget 2012
Operating Income
Trust Funds
4001	Unrestricted Funds					5,198.00				5,198.00				5,226.00
4015	Flower Fund					738.00				738.00				742.00
4016	Clevie White Fund - Music					147.00				147.00				128.00
4020	Sargent (Mitten) Fund					0.00				0.00				220.00
4022	Clevie White Fund - Mission					147.00				147.00				128.00
4025	Hazen (Help for Needy) Fund					77.00				77.00				77.00
4030	Ellison(Music) Fund					190.00				190.00				190.00
4035	Ellison (Mission) Fund					190.00				190.00				190.00
4040	Merrill (Bible) Fund					0.00				0.00				64.00
4037	Woodworth Grant Youth Trip					2,500.00				2,500.00				0.00
4038	Parsonage Sales Income					7,331.00				*0.00				**0.00
4041	Sunday School Teacher/Camp					3,610.00				4,561.31				0.00
	Total Trust Funds					20,128.00				13,748.31				6,965.00
Collections
4105	Pledges				216,000.00					202,031.35				221,495.00
4106	Pledge paid for previous years				2,000.00					1,205.00				1,500.00
4110	Weekly Anonymous Cash				6,000.00					4,393.71				5,000.00
4113	Non-Pledge Gifts				9,000.00					14,100.75				9,000.00
4199	Bequest,Memorial & Misc.				5,000.00					235.00				2,500.00
	Total Collections				238,000.00					221,965.81				239,495.00
Misc. Revenue
4200	Supplemental Pledges					1,500.00				12,765.00				10,000.00
4205	Special Designated Projects					0.00				5,331.11				0.00
4210	Rummage Sale					2,300.00				2,507.33				2,300.00
	Total Misc Revenue					3,800.00				20,603.44				12,300.00
														242,569.25
Rental Income
4805	Use of Facility					7,500.00				7,481.00				5,000.00
4807	Long-Term Use of Facility					0.00				4,100.00				15,100.00
	Total Rental Income					7,500.00				11,581.00				20,100.00
Interest Income
4910	Interest - Money Mkt					12.00				33.32				12.00
	Total Interest Income					12.00				33.32				12.00
	Total Revenues					269,440.00				267,931.88				278,872.00
Operating Expense
Pastoral
6005				Senior Pastor-Salary		43,000.00				43,000.04				43,860.00
6010				Car/Pastor		600.00				298.70				612.00
6015				Housing Pastor		17,200.00				17,200.04				17,544.00
6020				Payroll Taxes-Pastor		4,429.00				4,428.90				4,363.00
6025				Health Insurance - Pastor		14,901.00				11,983.75				13,176.00
6027				Dental Ins-Pastor		1,060.00				1,060.00				942.00
6035				Continuing Ed/Pastor		2,100.00				2,100.00				2,100.00
6043				Book Allowance-Pastor		300.00				193.62				300.00
6045				Sabbatical		3,500.00				3,500.00				3,500.00
6050				Life/Disability Ins/Pastor		869.00				886.00				856.00
6055				Annuity/Pastor		8,106.00				8,267.00				7,985.00
				Total Pastoral		96,065.00				92,918.05				95,238.00
Worship
6105				Supplies - Worship		500.00				379.77				500.00
6110				Guest Preacher		1,000.00				900.00				1,000.00
6115				Advertisement		1,385.00				1,581.65				1,500.00
				Total Worship		2,885.00				2,861.42				3,000.00
UCC Ministries
6080		Conf Allow/Pastor				150.00				57.50				150.00
6082		VT Conf UCC Per Capita				3,413.00				3,633.84				3,497.00
6083		OCWM Basic Support				17,000.00				17,000.00				17,000.00
6084		Delegate				100.00				0.00				100.00
		Total UCC Ministries				20,663.00				20,691.34				20,747.00
Christian Ed
6215			Supplies - Chrisitan Ed.		700.00					896.50				700.00
6216			Sunday School Teacher		5,575.00					5,925.00				6,574.00
6217			Sunday School Teacher-taxes		425.00					453.37				503.00
6225			Bibles		150.00					92.18				150.00
6230			Curriculum		500.00					89.92				500.00
6235			Adult Ed		250.00					158.29				250.00
6236			Adult Retreats		100.00					0.00				100.00
6240			Youth Ed		600.00					269.96				600.00
6255			Equipment		100.00					100.00				100.00
6260			Children's Sunday		100.00					0.00				100.00
6259			Youth Work Trip		5,000.00					5,000.00				3,750.00
add			Nursery attendant		0.00					0.00				1,600.00
add			Vacation Bible School Supplies/Ads		0.00					0.00				750.00
			Total Christian Ed		13,500.00					12,985.22				15,677.00
Mission
6315			Local Mission		4,584.00					4,586.00				6,000.00
6325			Clevie White		147.00					147.00				128.00
6335			Sargent Fund (Mitten)		0.00					0.00				220.00
6345			Hazen Fund		79.00					77.00				77.00
6355			Ellison Fund		190.00					190.00				190.00
			Total Board of Mission		5,000.00					5,000.00				6,615.00
Music
6405			Senior Choir Dir		8,821.00					8,954.92				8,997.00
6406			Junior / Youth / Handbell / Choir Dir		6,822.00					6,821.91				6,957.00
6407			Payroll Tax-Music		2,670.00					2,683.79				2,723.00
6408			Organist		15,975.00					15,975.10				16,294.00
6420			Musicians		225.00					225.00				475.00
6425			Vac Organ		900.00					975.00				1,500.00
6430			Music-Sr. Choir		300.00					278.73				300.00
6435			Instrument Maintenance		1,600.00					846.14				1,600.00
6445			Music - Junior/Youth/Handbell/Choir		300.00					417.98				400.00
6447			Jr/Yth Choir Accom		3,278.00					3,277.91				3,344.00
6455			Continuing Ed		100.00					0.00				100.00
6460			Guild		250.00					0.00				250.00
6465			Equipment		98.00					308.00				100.00
6475			C. White Trust Fund		147.00					150.00				128.00
6485			Ellison Fund		190.00					175.00				190.00
			Total Music		41,676.00					41,089.48				43,358.00
Office
6505			Office Manager		16,541.00					14,076.55				17,671.00
6507			Payroll Tax-Office		1,265.00					1,057.51				1,352.00
6508			Bookkeeping Services		7,161.00					5,077.59				7,654.00
6509			Payroll Tax-Bookkeeping		548.00					388.45				586.00
6510			Accounting Services		350.00					217.72				0.00
6512			Copier Expense		4,650.00					4,549.75				4,700.00
6515			Supplies - Office		1,750.00					1,829.03				1,750.00
6520			Telephone & Internet Service		3,700.00					3,438.05				3,600.00
6525			Postage		1,000.00					673.00				1,000.00
6535			PO Box Fee		70.00					0.00				70.00
6540			Lifeline		2,850.00					2,900.00				1,860.00
6550			Continuing Ed-Office Mgr		0.00					117.96				200.00
6555			Computer Expenses		275.00					129.99				300.00
			Total Office		40,160.00					34,455.60				40,743.00
Building
6605			Sexton		5,709.00					5,708.91				5,823.00
6607			Payroll Taxes-Sexton		437.00					436.80				445.00
6610			Cleaning		10,400.00					10,400.00				10,608.00
6615			Payroll Taxes - Cleaning		796.00					795.60				812.00
6620			Supplies - Building		750.00					748.56				800.00
6625			Rubbish		200.00					240.00				360.00
6635			Insurance		5,900.00					5,877.58				6,104.00
6639			Elevator Maintenance		1,050.00					1,058.90				1,050.00
6640			Fuel Oil		7,000.00					6,830.00				8,400.00
6642			Furnace/Water Htr Service		450.00					401.88				450.00
6645			Electric		2,500.00					2,395.79				2,700.00
6650			Water Usage		400.00					314.16				500.00
6655			Propane		500.00					747.39				600.00
6660			Maj Main		3,000.00					2,079.47				3,000.00
6661			Maintenance Capital Reserve		2,500.00					2,500.00				2,500.00
6662			Equipment		200.00					302.61				500.00
6665			Snow/Lawn		600.00					878.99				600.00
6673			Special Designated Projects		0.00					5,471.11				0.00
6675			Fire/Security Alarm		1,504.00					1,953.33				1,955.00
6688			Parsonage Sale expenses		0.00					-420.62				0.00
			Total Building		43,896.00					48,720.46				47,207.00
Misc.
6705			Hosp Com		420.00					302.82				450.00
6700			Other		300.00					31.52				250.00
6720			Flower		500.00					213.40				250.00
6730			Stewardship Committee		600.00					673.75				675.00
6740			Worker's Compensation		1,575.00					1,889.63				1,445.00
6780			Brokerage Fees/Market Action		200.00					0.00				200.00
6790			Church Council New Initiatives		2,000.00					420.00				0.00
			Total Misc		5,595.00					3,531.12				3,270.00
			Total Expenses		269,440.00					262,252.69				275,855.00
			Net Income		0.00					5,679.19				3,017.00
*Parsonage Sales income for 2011 was returned to the endowment as it was not needed to  balance the budget
**Interest from the note held by NCC may be used to balance the budget in 2012 if the Trustees deem it a necessity

 

 

S: BALANCE SHEET - DECEMBER 2011
ASSETS
Current Assets
Ledyard Checking Acct. #528935	$ 29,916.87
Ledyard Money Market #2027746	13,278.75
Ledyard Woodworth MM #2027753	43,641.90
Prepaid Expenses	5,763.19
Total Current Assets		92,600.71
Property and Equipment
Parsonage Sale Agreement	391,147.17
Total Property and Equipment		391,147.17
Other Assets
Vanguard Investment Account	3,442.67
UCF Investment Account	301,380.71
Vanguard - Parsonage	63,842.49
Total Other Assets		368,665.87
Total Assets		$852,413.75
LIABILITIES AND CAPITAL
Current Liabilities
Next Year's Pledges	$ 12,165.00
Woodworth for Organ	845.98
Woodworth Pass Throughs	1,318.51
Memorial Pass Thrus	2,500.00
Hospitality Donations	280.00
Mission Pass-Throughs	131.50
Future Youth Trips	2,227.82
Equipment Pass Thru	(647.64)
Other Pass Throughs	(29.24)
Women's Retreat	130.00
Total Current Liabilities		18,921.93
Reserved Funds
Grand Piano Reserve	1,028.42
Reserved Capital Maintenance	6,000.00
Woodworth Fund Balance	43,641.90
Total Reserved Funds		50,670.32
Total Liabilities & Reserved Funds		69,592.25
Capital
Retained Earnings	13,829.27
Restricted Equity -Sabbatical	3,500.00
Parsonage Capital	391,147.17
Vanguard Trust Balance	3,442.67
UCF Trust Balance	301,380.71
Vanguard- Parsonage Fund	63,842.49
Net Income	5,679.19
Total Capital		782,821.50
Total Liabilities & Capital		$852,413.75

 

T: Collector’s Annual Report 2011

 

 2011

  2010    2011  Supplemental 

 

Total of all Pledges collected $221,798**  $203,236* $12,765

  

Total # of Pledges 93  98 

   

Average pledge collected $2,385   $2,074

 

% of Pledges Collected by year-end 90% 94% 

 

* Represents contributions toward Year 2011 pledges that were received in 2011 and

 2010, and pledges that were made for prior years. Does not include contributions

 toward Year 2011 pledges that were received in 2012.

 

** Represents contributions toward Year 2010 pledges that were received in 2009 and

 any pledges that were made for prior years. Does not include contributions toward

 2010 pledges received after 12/31/10.

 

Respectfully submitted for Judy Pond, Collector

By Joni Latuch-Lyman, Financial Manager

 

U: Music Committee Report 2011

 

By Sarah Reeves and Anne Broussard

 

Special appreciation for Kathy and Tacy for making our music inspirational.

 

Thank you for new choir members: Ann and Mark Beams, Mari Colaiacomo and Jonathan Vincent.

Sarah organized two educational programs in response to our Cottage Meetings suggesting more music for NCC and our community.

1) In the fall we had an educational program on the spirituality of music by Linda Galvin of Camarata, New England and

2) a Multi-Faith Worship held for our entire community featuring Rev. Betty and Noel Paul Stookey who led us in a multi-faith celebration of word and music on January 29, 2012 in anticipation of U.S. Interfaith Harmony Week. The committee received a grant from the Woodworth Fund to cover the cost. Many7 helped with potluck, tables, food etc. Special thanks to Hilary White and Sharon Corrigan, Joan Wanner and many others.

3) A member of our congregation donated some new comfortable chairs for our choir. They have racks on the bottom for music folders. We were given 18 of them. Also chairs were donated for the Parish Hall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Norwich Congregational Church   

P.O. Box 236

Norwich, VT 05055