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Update from Session Regarding Scouts
On Oct 25, 2023, the Session approved a building use arrangement for the scouts to utilize the lodge for their programs under a new organizational structure. Thank you to everyone who worked to make this happen and to the congregation for your patience. We have learned quite a lot over the past few months and invite the church to an “Elder Debrief: Budget & Scouts” on Nov 19, 2023 @ 11:30am to hear more about the process and to ask questions.
Background:
In July, Session learned that there were possible child sexual abuse allegations with the Scout troop. Session took preliminary steps right away by making the required child abuse prevention notifications, requiring the Scouts to be on hiatus and learning about the facts surrounding the allegations. The Session used a process to ensure safety and make a decision based on facts. Session, as fiduciaries for the congregation, evaluated the continued risk and made a decision to terminate the church’s longstanding connections with the Scouts in August.
For some this situation presents a difference of opinion that will not be cured with additional facts or discussion. Those members/friends have a strong belief in and personal affiliation with the Scouts. They would have preferred that the Scouts continue to be chartered through the church. There are other members/friends who, in light of the current legal, social and political climate, feel that maintaining the status quo consciously disregards facts and risks. All opinions and points of view are valid. Sometimes we must agree to disagree so we can move forward.
This week Session approved a request to allow the Scouts to continue using the lodge. Once again, Session used a process to ensure safety and make a decision based on facts for the best interests of the congregation. The process involved a Memorandum signed by Scout representatives, a Historical Documents Agreement, an Inventory of Scout Possessions, a Certificate of Liability Insurance for the Scouts and Bank Account Closure Documentation. After the process was completed, Pastor Kelly signed an Amended Release/Assumption of Unit Charter which allows the inventoried property to be transferred to the Scouts.
Many thanks to those that assisted with the process. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact a member of Session. There are copies of the above-mentioned documents to review in the office should you want more information. Please pray for the Scouts and the congregation as we navigate these changes.
Participate
It's that time again for everyone young and not so young to get out their bowling balls and shoes. Come to the All-Westminster Bowling Party on Saturday, November 11, at 1 pm at AMF Firebird Lanes (4303 Center St NE). RSVP to Michele by October 29 at 408-402-2396.
This Sunday, October 29, sewing machines will be set up for use during coffee hour in Boulder Hall if you would like to make a pillowcase for the Doernbecher Children's Hospital project. It only takes about seven minutes to complete this task and make a child happy during a tough time!
All Saints Day remembrance is nearly upon us. On November 5, 2023 we will honor those among us who have passed away in the past year as well as light candles for those we have lost at any time. Please submit the name of your loved one (and/or a picture) to the office (krisha@salemwestpres.org) by November 2, 2023.
Women's Night Out will be at The Olive Garden at 6 pm on Monday, November 13. Hope to see everyone. RSVP to Michele at 408-402-2396 by November 12.
Christmas Journeys is coming! Please put December 10 on your calendars for the second annual production of our intergenerational telling of the Christmas story. Everyone who would like to participate is welcome. There are speaking, non-speaking, and crew parts, musicians, setup, takedown, and food prep needs, and room on the planning committee. If you would like to participate in any way, please contact Terri Crall (tcrall71@gmail.com).
Save the Date
November 4: Chancel Choir Retreat
November 12: Stewardship Hoedown Luncheon (11:30 am)
November 19: Open Debrief with Elders: Budget & Scouts (11:30 am)
November 22: Mainline Thanksgiving Service with Pick-Up Choir (6 pm)
In the Community
Join The Cascades Presbytery Committee On Representation's discussion with author Sarah Augustine via Zoom on Saturday, October 28, 9:30am-11:30am. The discussion will focus on her prophetic and highly-recommended book, The Land is Not Empty, which unpacks the harms of the Doctrine of Discovery. More info and registration here. In-person discussion at WPC to follow later next month--watch for more details.
Help save a life! First Pres Salem in partnership with ARCHES needs volunteers to help open their building as a warming shelter on the coldest nights of the year. Their building can host 80-90 people, but they need help. Shifts are four hours at a time overnight. To sign up or learn more, email engage@salemfpc.org.
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