Council Updates
A Monthly meeting of the Congregational Council of Bethel Lutheran Church was held by Zoom on March 9th, 2021. After the meeting, additional issues arose, needing attention for Council, so a special meeting was held on Sunday March 14th at 11:00 am to discuss those issues.
Financial Reports:
Bookkeeper Kim Williams distributed detailed financial reports to all members of Council prior to the meeting. Giving and other income in February totaled $24,575.91. Total expenses were $26,306.86 accounting for a net loss of $1,730.95.
An application for a second Payroll Protection Program loan of approximately $35,000 has been approved for Bethel.
Pastor’s Report:
Confirmation class is continuing, with a goal of confirmation in May. Pastor Dave has contacted 12 students who are potential members of the next Confirmation class, and is working towards confirmation camp in June.
“Little Lutherans” were able to have a Zoom meeting. Pastor Dave is working with Judy McKiernan and Matt Meade to plan activities for Middle School students.
Planning is beginning for a partially combined Women’s and Men’s retreat at Graves Mountain Lodge in November 2021.
Board Reports:
Curt Grymala reported that he is working on plans to provide the traditional breakfast on Easter Sunday morning, and considering COVID-safe food options. Based on CDC recommendations, individually wrapped food items would be best. Pastor Dave suggested that funds would likely be available from Thrivent to support such an event. Pastor Dave will reach out to Curt for further discussion.
Beth Garner reported that she is considering creative options for carrying out “Returning Thanks” on Good Friday.
Betty Puffinberger requested information about graduating seniors in the Bethel Congregation, and their post-graduation plans so that the quilting team can begin to make quilts for the students. There are at least six Bethel students graduating from high school in 2021.
Return to In-Person Worship:
Council approved plan to return to in-person, outdoor worship beginning on Palm Sunday (March 28th.). All Holy Week Services, including Easter will be held outside, weather permitting. Going forward, weekly worship will continue outdoors until state and local regulation and CDC recommendation allow for indoor worship in near-normal conditions. All outdoor worship will be recorded, and made available on-line as quickly as possible (hopefully by noon on Sunday.) In cases of inclement weather, services will be recorded ahead of time, and made available on-line, as has been done for the past several months.
Bethel New Day initiative:
Updates to sanctuary sound and recording equipment.
Council approved significant upgrades to the sound system in the sanctuary, and the purchase of new equipment that will support live streaming options when Bethel returns to indoor, in person worship.
Underground
Work in the underground has started, including installation of cabinets, replacement of countertops, installation of the sink, trim installation, painting and installation of vinyl waterproof flooring in all areas passed unanimously by acclamation.
All payment will be made through the line of credit obtained to pay for maintenance projects.
Planning process - Sanctuary
A team will be formed to plan changes in the Sanctuary. The team will consist of six to eight members, plus Pastor Dave. The team will present a complete plan, integrating all aspects of improvements, to the Congregation.
