On June 27, Church Council held a meeting. Here is a summary of that meeting:
Penny Selman, Staff Parish Relations Committee Chair, reported that the Committee is still actively trying to fill Allan Ledford’s position of Director of Music. They have had one candidate audition with the choir and expect more interviews and auditions soon. They hope to fill the position by August. Penny also shared that the Signal Crest congregation and others in the community have contributed just over $16,000 towards Allan's piano. They are so thankful for such a generous church.
Allison Maynard, Financial Secretary, shared on behalf of Jeff Norwood, Treasurer and Marti Wayland, Finance Chair the financial update. The May Profit and Loss statement shows total income of $51,720, and total expenses of $64,946, for a net deficit of $13,226. However, the Profit and Loss statement for January 1 through May 31 shows total income of $360,061, and total expenses of $327,024, for a net surplus of $33,037. The Balance Sheet as of May 31 shows temporarily restricted net assets of $100,291. The largest restricted fund is the Memorial Fund with a balance of $42,479. The general operating account had a balance of $466,031 net of restricted funds as of May 31. All accounts have been reconciled as of May 31. Monthly reports continue to be sent to all budget managers each month. These reports show how much has been spent to date for each line item of the manager's budget, together with a detailed breakdown of each expenditure.
Dick Emrath, Trustees Committee Chair, shared that the temporary roof repairs are about 50% finished with work continuing. Discussions are underway with several committees in regard to what a capital campaign would look like to fund replacing the roof on both the Sanctuary and flat areas with more information to come as that discussion progresses.
Greg Cullum, Church Council Chair, also shared that a request to spend $750.00 from the Music Designated fund had been requested. These funds will be used to pay our special musical guests for the month of July for the Nanci Crewe Concert series. Trustees and Finance approved as did Church Council.
Colin Johnson and Carole Long, Lay Members to Annual Conference, shared an update on the 2021 Holston Annual Conference. This year's conference is different than in year's past with a virtual session and a one day in person session. Reports were provided in advance and a virtual session was held on June 12th to provide an overview of the reports. They shared that the conference has to increase insurance rates for pastors by 16.5%. They also reported that tithing at the Conference level is down and a task force has been created to review the current process and make recommendations for improvements. It was noted that Signal Crest has paid its tithe in full. On August 28, Carole and Colin will attend the in person portion of annual conference and have the opportunity to vote on items brought forth.
Bishop Taylor is retiring as of September 1 and the North Alabama Bishop will preside over the Holston Conference for now. The Holston Conference will still remain separate from the North Alabama Conference.
In addition, the conference is focusing heavily on dismantling racism within the Methodist church and has created a task force to look at best practices and provide resources for our churches.
The Conference also shared this video highlighting the Conference Mission project of providing buckets of which Signal Crest was a part of this effort.
David Tonahill, Preschool representative, shared an update on how the Preschool year went. The Preschool only had 1 positive case of COVID the entire year. This was a huge blessing as no one really knew what to expect when Preschool returned last August. All the Fall classes are full and all staff positions are also filled. Peggy Chapman retired after 17 years of service and Lisa Dieter and Jenni Simmons retired after 12 years of service. David also shared that this year the Preschool is able to provide an increased donation of $12,500 back to Signal Crest versus a gift of $10,000 the previous year.
Henry Allen, Chair of the Youth Parent Advisory Board, shared that both the Middle School Mission week and the High School Spiritual Retreat went well. Summer activities are also underway for the youth.
Rachel Dow, Director of Children’s Ministries, reported that 29 in person children have registered for VBS and 9 virtual children so far. VBS is July 12-15 and registration may found here. She is also looking for volunteers so if you are interested in assisting, please contact Rachel at Children@signalcrestumc.org or you may sign up via this link.
Rebekah Ducote, Director of Discipleship, shared that the current Book Club studying the Holy Spirit is going well. The Program staff are meeting this week to discuss programming going forward.
Doranne Lane, Missions Team Chair, reported that the Firewood Work day on June 27th went well with 18 participants. We were approached by someone within the church about an opportunity to build a wheel chair ramp for a veteran and Doranne was pleased to share that a group within the church is building the ramp soon. Mustard Tree meals are back the 2nd Sunday of the month with snack pack dinners. We still need volunteers to cover August. If you or your small group are interested, please contact Doranne at doranne@epbfi.com.
Pastor Bill Thornton wrapped up the meeting with the Pastor's report and shared that he is seeing both familiar families returning to worship each week and new attendees visiting. We are a lay driven church and he shared that all of us have a role to play in greeting others and making Signal Crest a welcoming church. As we come out of the pandemic, we are beginning to dream again about the future of Signal Crest and how we can regain the momentum we had prior to COVID.
Our next Church Council meeting will be August 22 at 7 pm.
In Partnership,
Greg Cullum
Chair, Church Council
