First English Evangelical Lutheran Church

Annual Congregational Meeting

Agenda
January 22, 2017
We are A Lutheran Community Celebrating
The Gospel of Jesus Christ and Striving Toward Faithful Living In Gods World
Call to Order
Opening Prayer
Approval of Agenda
Minutes of the 2016 Annual Meetings
January
June
Report of the Pastor
Report of the President
Report of the Treasurer
Budget Analysis for 2016
Budget for 2017
Report of the Nominating Committee for Church Council Members and the 2017 Nominating Committee
Election of Church Council Members
Election of 2017 Nominating Committee
Report of Ministry Committees (highlights and information only)
Property (Lynn Heltzel)
Finance (Wayne Griffin)
Youth (Julie Judge)
Social Ministry (Jeff Nelson)
Outreach (no chair)
Education (Debbie Lane)
Worship and Music (Jim Byerly)
Personnel (Betty Cochran)
Congregational Life (Margaret Thisted)
Stewardship (Jennifer Gentry)
Women of the ELCA (Peggy Davis)
First Lutheran Church Foundation (Rob Comet)
Leisure Group (Grace Gulick)
Music Endowment Fund
Election of one for one year term (Ken McCues one year term ending)
Benevolence Mission Fund expenditure authorization for 2017: Motion from Council that a maximum of $10,000 for
grants be expended in 2017.
Old Business
Air Conditioning Project
1

New Business
Reflections for the Good of the Church
Adjournment and Prayer

Minutes of the Annual Congregational Meeting

Sunday, January 10, 2016
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
VII.

Call to Order
Opening Prayer
Approval of Agenda
1. Council president has added the Benevolence Mission Fund to New Business to discuss.
Minutes of the 2015 Annual Meeting
1. On page 7 of the report, remove $46,000 and change $12,000 to $1,200. MSP.
Report of the Pastor Pastor John Schweitzer, page 8
Report of the President Betty Cochran, page 10
Report of the Treasurer Kevin Murphy
1. Budget Analysis for 2016 see attached report.
2. Budget for 2016 introduction of the Narrative Budget concept to the congregation. In addition to a Line
Item Budget, the Narrative Budget focuses on the programs and mission of FELC and take both expenses
and income and review from standpoint of program and mission. Line Item budget expenses are placed
into a category and plugged into percentage of that budget.
3. Additional bullet: Proposed budget to be submitted to the congregation prior to the Annual Meeting.
4. Discussion on whether congregation has had enough time to review the proposed budget in order to vote

VIII.

on it today.
5. Vote to approve proposed budget, motion to accept budget as presented, seconded and passed.
Reports of Ministry Committees (highlights and information only)
1. Reports were submitted by the following committees with a brief discussion on each: Property, Strategic
Planning, Finance (Wayne Griffin), Youth, Social Ministry, Education, Worship and Music, Personnel,

IX.

X.

Outreach, Congregational Life, Stewardship, Women of the ELCA, FELC Foundation, Leisure Group.
Report of the Nominating Committee for Church Council Members and the 2016 Nominating Committee
1. Election of Church Council Members and 2016 Nominating Committee
2. Nominations: Betty Cochran, Carol McCue, Roger Riggle, Richard Ruff
3. Motion for nominations to be closed, seconded, passed.
Old Business
1. Proposed Staff Position (Betty Cochran) To-date, no applicants have been; however, we will continue to
pursue this position.
2. Air Conditioning Project (Rob Comet) Update on the replacement of our HVAC unit. Phase I is
complete, Phase II urges congregation that we need to deal with this. We have received a second grant
with a matching gift of $20,000 to match the $20,000 that needs to be raised. To-date, we are $30,000

XI.

away from completing the $160,000 project.

New Business

1. Benevolence Mission Fund The Benevolence Mission Fund may expend up to $10,000 in calendar year
2016. Recommendation: council approved recommending to the congregation, congregational vote to
approve, move to accept the recommendation, seconded, and passed - MSP.
2. Music Endowment Fund Board Two congregational members are elected by congregational members at
the annual meeting. One serves a 1 year term and the other serves a 2 year term. Members of the
congregation who would be interested to serve on this board, please let the new council president know
who would be.
- Question: how often does the committee meet and what are their responsibilities. Oversee the funds
and stewardship of the funds and expenditure of the funds. Member of the foundation or the council
XII.

cannot serve. Vote from the floor.

Ken McCue and Melissa Shafer volunteered to serve on this Board.
Motion to nominate Ken and Melissa, Amended Motion made that Melissa serve a 2 year term and

Ken 1 year term, seconded, passed.

Reflections for the good of the Church
- N/A
- Movement to adjourn
- Thanks from the President

Closure The Lords Prayer

Respectfully submitted,
Caroline Heltzel
January 10, 2016

Called Congregational Meeting

July 10, 2016
Minutes
The meeting was called to order following the 10:30AM worship service by Sheryl Finucane, President.
The purpose of the called meeting was to elect the 2016 nominating committee. The following individuals were
nominated: Mark Allen, Rob Comet, Susan Fenerty, Wayne Griffin, Jenna Hoke and Nicole Krause. There were no
nominations from the floor. A motion was made to elect these individuals by acclamation, seconded and passed.
There were several updates provided:
Rob Comet spoke on the progress to date on the special campaign to replace the air conditioning system. He
noted that the ongoing issues related to maintenance and parts no longer being available. The goal of the
campaign is to raise $150,000-$160,000. To date $115,000 has been raised. The Foundation has committed a
$20,000 matching grant. There is an overall $24,000 remaining to be raised for completion of the campaign.

 Kevin Murphy reported on the mid-year status of the budget. To date we have received more contributions than
projected and have spent less than anticipated. We are still operating with a deficit budget, although not at the rate
anticipated at the beginning of the year.
Sheryl Finucane reported that the Pastors focus on the 500th anniversary of the church will be on looking forward
rather than history.
Carol McCue is chairing an ad hoc committee reviewing the constitution and the bylaws.
Betty Cochran provided an update on the development of a narrative budget. Categories have been drafted. The
line item budget will be developed first and then those numbers will be assigned to the various categories. The
finalized narrative budget will be provided to the congregation along with the line budget for action at the annual
meeting in January 2017.
There was discussion of the size of the church council. Although there have historically been 12 members on the
church council, the constitution states up to 12 members. At the June council meeting, a decision was made to not
fill the position vacated by Caroline Heltzel. It was also noted that Joyce Smith is currently unable to participate
in the council meetings due to her extended illness.
Sheryl thanked the Congregational Life Committee for working together to continue the various projects and
activities of the committee during the absence of Joyce Smith, chair.
VBS is scheduled for July 31. It will be a one day program, starting with a potluck lunch following the 10:30AM
worship service.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Submitted by:
Betty Cochran, Secretary

REPORT OF THE PASTOR

2016
62. The true treasure of the church is the most holy gospel of the glory and grace of God.
- Martin Luther, Disputation of Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences
October 31, 1517
Dear Members and Friends:
2017! This is the year we celebrate the 500th Anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation. But perhaps we shouldnt assume
that what well be observing belongs only to Lutherans: a more proper label for this event is the Protestant Reformation.
But even that isnt perfect, because the term protestant leaves out at least half if not more of Christendom and only
dates to 1529 (not 1517). At that time, at least in some quarters, this designation even became somewhat pejorative.
Nevertheless, however one understands the term, its hard to deny that what Martin Luther set in motion on October 31,
1517 changed the Christian church and the course of European history. Troubled by his sins and sense of guilt before God,
Luther was led by his father confessor, Johann von Staupitz, to study the scriptures in order to find the peace for his soul
which had eluded him, in spite of the fact that he was an exemplary monk and priest. There in the Bible, especially in
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Galatians and Romans, Luther discovered the true treasure of the church, the gospel of salvation by grace through faith,
completely apart from any merits on our part. And he spent the rest of his life proclaiming this gospel and trying to correct
abuses in the church of his day.
This gospel of the glory and grace of God is what should be at the heart of all we do as the people of God at First English
Evangelical Lutheran Church. That is why the weekly worship service when we gather to hear the gospel proclaimed in
word and sacrament is so central: everything else we do emanates from the fundamental truth proclaimed by thesis
number 62. If you want to tack the name Lutheran onto our activities at 1603 Monument Avenue, youd better
understand what the gospel of Jesus Christ is. Thats why Ive always found our mission statement so powerful: We are a
Lutheran community celebrating the gospel of Jesus Christ and striving toward faithful living in Gods world.
Celebrating the gospel: we do that through our weekly worship services. But theres also the second part of the statement:
striving toward faithful living in Gods world. When we have grasped what the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ
means, we will want to tell others about the wonderful treasure weve found: thats known as evangelism. Striving toward
faithful living also results in what we here call social ministry: as Luther also said, we are freed as Christians from trying
to earn our salvation (which we already have in Christ) to concentrate on serving our neighbor. It can assume various
forms, and our congregation has always taken the call to serve beyond the boundaries of First English very seriously.
Discovering how to put our faith into action can be challenging. Its relatively easy to learn something about Luthers life
and work or read a book on the Reformation. But how do make all of that relevant to our world today, a world that is as
divided and conflicted as the one into which Luther was born? This is the conversation I urge us to engage in as we make
our way through the year of the 500th Reformation Anniversary. What does being Lutheran, a church of the Reformation,
mean for us in 2017? Luther injected new life into an old church that had become turned inward on itself (incurvatus in
se); it had become a worldly institution which had lost sight of the heavenly treasure it was its holy task to proclaim. So
how can we as a relatively old congregation (by American standards; Lutherans in Europe would consider us still to be in
adolescence!) discover the secret of new life? The answer lies in the thesis quoted at the beginning: by focusing on the
gospel and Luthers teaching that the good news of our salvation in Christ frees us to be creatively engaged with the world
around us, especially with those least able to care for themselves. And the more we do that, the more we will be a city on a
hill, that light of the world our Lord speaks about in Matthew 5: you are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot
be hidden.15No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in
the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to
your Father in heaven. All of this begins with us taking hold of our birthright, the true treasure of the church, the most
holy gospel of the glory and grace of God!
End of sermon. Now lets look back at the past year, 2016. What were some of the highlights? First of all, our
Congregational Life Committee has continued to show outstanding leadership in providing opportunities for fellowship,
getting to know each other, and engaging in the biblical mutual conversation with and consolation of each other. It was
really heartening to see everyone come together as a church family to the aid of Joyce and Joedy Smith and to witness
Joyces brave steps towards recovery from the brain infection she suffered shortly after Easter. The Soul Stitchers, though
small in number, have become a new way for members of First English to serve those in need. Were still discovering
what a blessing the Wagner Room is for our congregation, and the fellowship time there after the 10:30 services continues
to be a good transition from the morning worship to the marching orders with which the service ends: go in peace, serve
the Lord.
And theres more. Our choir under Linwood Lundes capable leadership continues to enhance our worship; in addition, the
bell choir is now up and running again and weve begun a childrens choir as well. Sunday School is a joyful time, as are
the 10:30 childrens sermons, which have been moved to right after the opening liturgy, making them an effective
introduction to the scripture readings which follow. The Adult Bible Class began observing the 500the Reformation
Anniversary described in detail at the beginning of this report by studying various aspects of life at the time of the
Reformation, resulting in a number of new persons becoming regulars in this class. Such short-term studies will continue
in 2017. Also, copies of the classic Here I Stand: A Life of Martin Luther by Roland H. Bainton were made available (and
still are) at the modest price of $ 10 (hardback with illustrations!). A gratifying number of our members have read or are
reading the book and several opportunities for discussion of its contents will be offered in 2017. Our youth continue to
participate in synod-wide activities for young people, and under their leadership we again conducted a one-day Vacation
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Bible School in the summer which was a lot of fun. The church picnic on June 5 took place at a location we hadnt been to
since 2003, Forest Hill Park. On June 12 we celebrated both the 50 th ordination anniversary of FELC member Richard
Ruff and the 70th wedding anniversary of Bill and Betty Davidson. And on Rally Sunday, September 11, we again took
part in the ELCA-wide program called Gods Work. Our Hands which was a good segue into Social Ministry Sunday
the next week.
Now to the statistics: in 2016 I performed five weddings, two baptisms, and four member and one non-member funerals
(therefore, four members departed this life in 2016). We received seven new adult members. Four adult and three child
member transferred their membership to other congregations. Two of our children received their first Holy Communion in
December after the required instruction; a new confirmation class was formed which will be confirmed on Pentecost
Sunday, June 4, 2017.
In conclusion, I would like to thank the members of First English for their love and support, most especially (and Ive
never said this in a yearly report before) our youth, who throughout my time here have always accepted me as a friend yet
respected me as their pastor. Special recognition is due to Sheryl Finucane, who as Council President always keeps us on
agenda and challenges us as leaders to help the congregation discover new ways for First English to strive toward faithful
living in Gods world; to Brian Wingfield for running our office so efficiently; and once again, Linwood Lunde, whose
enthusiasm for music at First English knows no bounds. Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to my wife,
Carol, whose vast experience as a pastor in her own right and a professor of Practical Theology provides me with pastoral
care, guides me when perplexed, and constantly reminds me of the most holy gospel of the glory and grace of God by
embodying it in her own person.
Faithfully yours,
Pastor John Schweitzer

REPORT OF THE PRESIDENT

As my year as president comes to a close, I first and foremost give thanks.
Thank you, to the entire First English family, for your support during the past 12 months. There are many people who
pour a great deal of love into keeping First English a lively and vibrant place to worship, learn, and enjoy fellowship, to
all of you, THANK YOU!!!
To my fellow council members, thank you for your support, for your vibrant discussions, for sharing your faith and love.
Council said a fond bon voyage to Carolyn Heltzel, we rejoiced with the return of both Roger Riggle and Joyce Smith to
the council table. Rogers short absence and Joyces longer absence were deeply felt.
In conjunction with Advent, a Wed morning prayer service was started with invitations to other congregations in the Stuart
Circle Parish. Thanks to council member Josh Eckert for developing the idea and Josh and council member Richard Ruff
and the Worship and Music Committee for getting this off the ground. Also initiated in Council discussions was holding a
food drive for the VCU RAMpantry, thanks to assistance of the Congregational Life committee this will be coming up in
winter/spring 2017.
6

Carol McCue (Council Vice President) and Jim Byerly were tasked with looking at the FELC constitution and bylaws.
Delays in updates from the synod have delayed any recommendations for changes. Council approved reducing the number
of members to 9 through gradual attrition over the next few years. This change was allowed within the existing guiding
documents.
One of my personal concerns is having effective communication about faith, worship opportunities, and activities within
the congregation and extending out into our wider community. Cheryl Shiembob resigned as our newsletter editor. We are
working to make the midweek update an effective replacement for the newsletter. Nicole Krause continues to work on
keeping our website up to date, and a number of people work to keep our Facebook page active. Pastor Schweitzer is
sending out a weekly message. If you are not getting the electronic communications please let the office know, copies can
be mailed to those who do not have e-mail. Also, please share ideas for improving communication!
Over the past year, it seems that there has been a slight increase in the number of children and young adults present on
Sunday mornings. Please actively invite individuals new to the First English community to join in faith development,
service, and fellowship opportunities.
For many years, First English has ran a deficit budget. This year was no different. You will find details in the Finance
Committee report. The council met with members of the First English Foundation Board to refresh our understanding of
the Foundations mission and policies. We are thankful to the Foundation board members and to the foresight of past
members for creating the Foundation.
After being elected President of the Council I started reading about the declining trajectory of traditional Christian
churches. On one hand very sobering and on the other inspiring to read about how some traditional churches are finding
ways to bring active and vibrant faith and ministry to their communities. This is a challenging time not just for First
English. I ask that everyone, look toward the future with an eye on how to bring the message of Christ to the broader
community, being open to the concept that the future might not look like the past. As we embark on the 500 th anniversary
of the Reformation, it is a fitting time to be committed to prayerful discernment in order to discover the path God has for
the future of First English Lutheran Church. Leaps of faith may be needed.
Yours in Christ,
Sheryl Finucane,
President, FELC Congregational Council

Narrative Budget
2017
The purpose of a narrative budget is to convert a line item budget in a picture that demonstrates how the budget fits into the
mission and programs of the church. It does not replace the line item budget. In fact you cannot develop a narrative budget
without first having a line item budget. You are simply showing that line item budget in percentage form based on the categories
indicated on the line item budget. Staff costs are also divided into those same categories based on time studies completed by the
staff. Looking at a narrative budget allows the individual to see the budget in an easily understood way rather than just looking at
multiple columns of numbers. The line item budget is always available for seeing the finite detail of the churchs expense budget
for the year.
Staff costs were allocated based on their individual position description. The total cost for the music director, including substitute
organist, is allocated to Worship and Music. The total cost for the nursery attendant is allocated to Education. The Pastor and
Office Administrator each completed a multiple week time study that was used to allocate their staff costs to each of the
categories. Administration costs as reported here did not include salaries and benefits. The administration category includes
7

postage, office supplies, insurance (not staff), communications, equipment maintenance, etc. Staff time was not allocated to this
category in the time studies.

2017

Administration; 11% Outreach/Mission Support; 9%

Property; 26%
Congregational Life, Stewardship, Worship & Music; 45%
Education; 9%

Budget Category
Outreach, Mission
Support
Congregational Life,
Stewardship, Worship
and Music
Education
Property
Administration

Cost
$30,667.00

% of Total Budget
9%

$160,114.00

45%

$32,927.00
$91,839.00
$38,050.00

9%
26%
11%

2017 Budget

Accounts

2016

2017

$166,206.0
0
$81,000.00
$1,500.00
$200.00
$2,500.00
$251,406.0
0

$140,000.0
0
$80,000.00
$600.00
$0.00
$3,900.00
$224,500.0
0

Revenues
Offerings
400100 - Committed Giving
400110 - Other Envelope Giving
400200 - Loose Offering
400400 - Special Services
400500 - Wednesdays Together Revenue
Total Offerings
Other Revenues

420200 - Interest & Dividends

420300 - Reimbursed Building Expenses
420400 - Miscellaneous Income
420500 - Wedding Building Use Fees
420600 - Foundation Grants
Total Other Revenues

Total Revenues

$2,000.00
$9,000.00
$0.00
$750.00
$60,000.00
$71,750.00
$323,156.0
0

$1,000.00
$12,000.00
$1,000.00
$1,000.00
$60,000.00
$75,000.00
$299,500.0
0

$15,000.00
$300.00
$15,300.00

$15,000.00
$300.00
$15,300.00

$800.00
$100.00
$20.00
$175.00
$300.00
$1,500.00
$2,500.00
$75.00
$5,470.00

$800.00
$100.00
$20.00
$150.00
$300.00
$1,500.00
$5,600.00
$150.00
$8,620.00

$1,000.00
$1,000.00

$700.00
$700.00

$1,200.00
$1,200.00

$1,200.00
$1,200.00

$2,000.00
$500.00
$1,000.00
$3,500.00

$2,000.00
$500.00
$1,000.00
$3,500.00

$700.00
$10,000.00
$3,000.00
$24,700.00
$13,100.00
$19,000.00
$5,000.00
$6,000.00
$6,500.00
$88,000.00

$800.00
$10,250.00
$1,600.00
$25,500.00
$14,575.00
$8,500.00
$5,125.00
$6,400.00
$8,750.00
$81,500.00

$1,420.00
$1,420.00

$1,750.00
$1,750.00

Expenses
Mission Support
500100 - ELCA and Synod
500170 - Stuart Circle Parish
Total Mission Support
Education
510110 - SCS Literature
510120 - Cradle Roll
510130 - Nursery Supplies
510150 - Lenten/Advent Emphasis
510160 - Vacation Bible School
510170 - Youth Ministry
510190 - Wednesdays Together Expenses
520100 - "Word In Season"
Total Education
Outreach
520120 - Advertising
Total Outreach
Congregational Life
520210 - Church Meals and Picnic
Total Congregational Life
Worship & Music
530100 - Worship Resources
530110 - Music
530120 - Instrument Tuning/Repair
Total Worship & Music

Property
540100 - Maintenance Supplies
540110 - Maintenance Service
540120 - Janitorial Supplies
540130 - Cleaning Contractor
540140 - Electricity
540150 - Gas
540160 - Water
540170 - Landscape Maintenance
540180 - Maintenance Contracts
Total Property
Stewardship
550100 - Stewardship Expenses
Total Stewardship

Administration
560100 - Office Supplies
560110 - Convention Expenses
560120 - Postage
560130 - Communications
560140 - Office Equipment Maintenance
560150 - Miscellaneous Admin.
560170 - Insurance
560180 - Pastor - Business Expenses
560200 - Administrator - Business
Expenses
Total Administration
Staff
570100 - Pastor - Salary
570110 - Pastor - Pension/Insurance
570120 - Administrator - Salary
570130 - Administrator Pension/Insurance
570161 - Music Director
570170 - Childcare Attendant
570180 - Pulpit Supply
570190 - Substitute Organist
570200 - FELC Share, FICA
Total Staff

$3,475.00
$1,500.00
$1,200.00
$6,500.00
$6,800.00
$1,500.00
$15,250.00
$500.00
$100.00

$3,000.00
$1,500.00
$600.00
$7,500.00
$7,700.00
$1,250.00
$16,000.00
$400.00
$100.00

$36,825.00

$38,050.00

$85,019.00
$31,848.00
$34,546.00
$11,689.56

$85,019.00
$33,440.00
$34,546.00
$12,275.00

$34,000.00
$3,120.00
$800.00
$1,200.00
$5,000.00
$207,222.5
6
$359,937.5
6

$34,000.00
$2,000.00
$500.00
$1,200.00
$5,000.00
$207,980.0
0
$358,600.0
0

($36,781.56
)

($59,100.00
)

Total Expenses
Net Total

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Council Nominations: Sheryl Finucane & Lynn Heltzel
Nominating Committee: Fred Gentry, Mark Crumpton, Jenna Hoke (returning), Nicole Krause (returning), Rob Comet
(returning), and Wayne Griffin (returning)

REPORT OF THE PROPERTY COMMITTEE

10

Maintaining the physical plant at FELC takes a significant amount of work that could not be done without the
commitment of its members who volunteer many hours.
During this past year we have been blessed with no major maintenance issues. We have maintained as needed.
Rob Comet and his helpers continue to work with raising money for completing the air conditioning project.
We will continue to make repairs where and when needed. We have small projects that need to be finished this year, and
will as funds are available to do so. The upstairs bathroom in the education building needs to be updated.
A special thanks to all those who have donated time and muscle to accomplish the tasks in 2016. Joedy and Joyce Smith,
Jim Byerly, Dave Northam, Bill Davidson, Emmett Heltzel, Jenna and Jeff Hoke, Rob Comet, Brian Wingfield, and Fred
Gentry have all offered many hours of time to our building and grounds. Thank you for your commitment.
If you are interested in joining this group or have special skills and are willing to donate the time, we would love to have
you. We only meet quarterly due to the fact that Brian is able to coordinate the maintenance issues as they arise.
We are blessed to have such a special place to worship and be with friends and family. We have a history in this special
place and a future to look forward too.
Lynn Heltzel

REPORT OF THE FINANCE COMMITTEE

The Finance Committee is responsible for the following:
- managing the monetary assets of the congregation for mission and ministry
- oversight of financial counting and record-keeping including auditing of the
financial records
- support and assistance to the Treasurer
11

- initial preparation, along with the Treasurer, of the annual budget for Council review
- review and update of all insurance matters
As stewards of the congregations assets, we feel it is our responsibility to continue to express our concern about our
operating deficit. This results even with the assistance of the FELC Foundation included in the budget. This is the tenth
year running we are having to draw from our savings, which further reduces the future income stream from those monies.
We worked closely with Council in preparation of this years budget with the goal of minimizing the proposed deficit. We
ask that the congregation and Council continue to be aware of this issue.
The committee wants to express our sincere appreciation for the continued and dedicated service of Kevin Murphy as our
Treasurer. We are thankful for his time and talents in this vital role.
I also want to recognize and thank the other members of the Finance Committee:
Pastor John Schweitzer
Rob Comet
Polly Brickman
Ken McCue
The Finance Committee is actively seeking new members. It is not too demanding and can be a meaningful way to be of
service to your church. Please see me if you have any interest.
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne Griffin, Chair

REPORT OF THE SOCIAL MINISTRY COMMITTEE

The Social Ministry Committee continues to focus on the congregational goal of:
3.b. Continue direct service opportunities for serving urban poor/powerless and needy people and explore cooperation
with other metro Richmond congregations.
The Social Ministry Committee had another productive year. Among the 2016 activities for the Committee were:

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Food Drive. This is an ongoing collection at First English of canned goods and non-perishable food items for
donation to Richmond food banks for distribution.

Souper Bowl of Caring. Donations from First English members were collected at both services on Super Bowl
Sunday February 7 for distribution to Richmond social services organizations. A total of $485.50 was collected
including Thrivent funds. The money was divided between FeedMore (Food Bank, Meals on Wheels, and
Community Kitchen) and HomeAgain (shelter program).

CARITAS. First English volunteers provided snacks and hot drinks two evenings a week at St. Johns United
Church of Christ, as part of the evening intake process for homeless persons seeking overnight accommodations
during the winter months. Special thanks to Sheryl Finucane for her many years of coordinating this activity for
First English.

Eyeglasses Collection. This is an ongoing collection at First English of donated eyeglasses, which are then
distributed to those in need in other countries.

Social Ministry Sunday. This annual event was held November 6 to give First English members the opportunity to
learn more about Richmond social services organizations as well as volunteer needs of the organizations.

First English Outstanding Volunteers. The Social Ministry Committee sponsors this award annually to recognize
church members who made exceptional volunteer efforts at church and/or in the community. Julie Goodman, Pat
McAfee and Margaret Thisted received the award on Social Ministry Sunday.

Vacation Bible School Service Project. The service project was gathering items and making toiletry kits for
residents of St. Josephs Villa. 50 kits were completed and delivered. Thrivent funds were awarded.

Fall Service Project. This project was for The Giving Heart organization. First English volunteers filled 105 shoe
boxes with items for children and gift-wrapped the boxes for distribution at The Giving Hearts Community
Thanksgiving Feast. Thrivent funds were awarded.

To keep First English members up-to-date on social ministry activities, materials from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America, the Virginia Synod and Richmond social service organizations are posted in the Education Building. The
materials include agency brochures, annual reports, thank-you notes for contributions from First English, and sign-up
sheets for social ministry activities.
Members of the Social Ministry Committee are Susan Fenerty and Jeff Nelson. The Committee thanks Joe Thisted for
serving as Council liaison. The Committee is always interested in new members andideas for social ministry activities.
The activities of the Social Ministry Committee are dependent on volunteers. Many thanks are expressed to all who
participate. If you havent participated in the past, give it a try in 2017. All are welcome!
Respectfully submitted,
Jeff Nelson
Chair, Social Ministry Committee
REPORT OF THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
The FELC Christian Education Committee is charged with developing and carrying out ways to enhance the Christian
education of all Gods children in this special place. This task is embraced by a group of dedicated members, who support
a thriving ministry for all ages. We meet regularly with Pastor Schweitzer for planning, implementing programs and
seeking opportunities to expand Christian Education at First English. The committee would like to thank Debbie Lane for
chairing the committee, Susan Fenerty for her leadership as Sunday School director and Sunday School teacher, Julie
Judge Goodman as Sunday School teacher, one of the Youth leaders and VBS director, Richard Ruff for his support and
good ideas and Ellie Fenerty for her leadership as director of the Childrens Nativity.
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Spark, published by Augsburg Fortress, is the Sunday School curriculum for children. Thanks to the leadership of Susan
Fenerty and our Sunday school teachers, we offer Sunday School each Sunday from Rally Day (Sept 11) through late
May. For the past three Rally Days, the entire Sunday School has participated in Gods Work Our Hands by picking up
trash along Monument Ave and greeting people. The bright yellow ELCA shirts provide a positive statement and many
people stop to talk. The pre-school children go around the corner and spruce up Lombardy Park. Pre-school through high
school classes are available along with seasonal intergenerational lessons. Pastor Schweitzer led the First Communion
instruction for Anna Claire Hamilton and Ira Eckhardt this fall. They received First Communion during Advent and
Christmas. Pastor Schweitzer is also teaching the Confirmation class. Gracie Hamilton, Anna C Matawaran and Colin
Murphy will be confirmed June 4, 2017, Pentecost. The Adult Sunday school class is taught by Polly Brickman. The adult
class completed a series of classes this past fall on the impact of the Reformation on individuals entitled Ordinary People
of the Reformation. Polly Brickman will also lead a series of classes in 2017 exploring Islam entitled, Discover Islam.
The adults also use curriculum published by Augsburg Fortress . Linda Wallace manages our cradle roll.
Jenna Hoke, Julie Judge Goodman and Susan Fenerty provide leadership for the Youth Group. Currently, First English
youth continue to participate in synod sponsored events, lock-in during the winter, service projects in the Richmond
Metro and outreach in the community. As part of community outreach, the youth and adult leaders, wearing bright
yellow ELCA T-shirts for Gods Work Our Hands, picked up trash on Monument Ave on Rally Day (Sept 11) Trips to
Busch Gardens were also included in the busy schedule.
Vacation Bible School in 2016 was a one day event held on Sunday, July 31. The afternoon session started with a potluck
lunch and concluded around 3 pm. The attendance was 50. VBS included Bible stories, games, crafts, singing and
fellowship. Thanks go to Director Julie Goodman and the multitude of volunteers who helped make this an exciting
learning event for all involved. We are especially grateful to Jeff Nelson and the Social Ministry Committee who
coordinated the VBS service project for St. Josephs Villa. Fifty kits were assembled.
Wednesdays Together resumed in September after the summer break. The meal begins at 6:00 pm weekly. Programming
includes Bible study lead by Pastor Schweitzer during Lent. Many thanks to the volunteers that pick up food, set up for
the meal and clean up afterwards: Linda Smith, Lucia Morey, Bob and Debbie Lane, Peggy Davis, Libby Riggle, Charlie
& Helen Schumann, , Jeff Nelson and Reni Gower to name a few. If you have not joined us on Wednesday nights, please
plan to come. Bell Choir rehearses before the meal and Choir practice is after the meal.
The committee also coordinates a number of other events throughout the church year including: the Reformation Covered
Dish in October (attended by 70+), Advent Event in December (attended by 50+) and the Childrens Nativity on
Christmas Eve at the 5 pm service. A big thank you goes to Ellie Fenerty for organizing and directing the Childrens
Nativity in 2016.
The committee also supports Congregational Life with Oktoberfest and the Halloween Party in October, the church picnic
in May/June and with signing cards for the home bound members throughout the year.

The Education Committee is in need of additional volunteers. Please prayerfully consider joining our committee for a
one-time special event, Sunday school teacher, substitute for Sunday school teachers, volunteer for Vacation Bible School
or even a leadership role. To learn more about the committee, speak to any member: Susan Fenerty, Debbie Lane, Julie
Judge Goodman, Richard Ruff.
We sincerely thank the committee members who serve all Gods children here at First English. Your enthusiasm is an
inspiration and a very real part of the ministry here in this special place. In addition, we wish to thank the faithful and
hardworking Sunday School teachers of the children, youth and adults who are present every Sunday at 9:15: Susan
Fenerty, Julie Judge Goodman, Pastor John Schweitzer, Debbie Lane, Polly Brickman.
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Respectfully submitted,
Debbie Lane
January 5, 2017
REPORT OF THE WORSHIP AND MUSIC COMMITTEE
Hymn 692
We lift our voices, we lift our hands, we lift our lives up to you: we are an offering. Lord, use our voices, Lord us our
hands, Lord, use our lives, they are yours: we are an offering. All that we have, all that we are, all that we hope to be, we
give to you, we give to you. We lift our voices, we lift our hands, we lift our lives up to you: We are an offering, we are an
offering.
As the worship and music committee we are lifting our voices, hands and lives to the Lord. But it is more that the
committee. During a typical worship service more than half of those present participate in a task of the committee serving
in the choir, bell choir, as ushers, altar guild, presenters of the gifts, crucifer, candle lighters and lectors. We are blessed
with the talents of our Director of Music Lin Lunde.

Advent season had the Advent Service of Evensong a meditative and prayerful service
We joined with the churches of Stuart Parish in morning prayer services during the advent season at First English
which were led by Joshua Eckhardt and Pastor Richard Ruff.
The choir and candle lighters returned to wearing the classic cotta and cassocks.
Fifth Sundays hymns are music our youth sing at Synod events.
Planning is underway for a Blue Grass mass to take place this year.

Together we lift our voices, hands and lives to the Lord with our Talents and gifts which are unique and special. We are all
an offering to the Lord.
Submitted by Jim Byerly
REPORT OF THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
All performance evaluations were conducted in a timely manner. Included in the process was a review of the position
description to ensure it was up to date with current expectations. Goals for the upcoming year were determined by the
employee with input from the supervisor. Issues were addressed as appropriate throughout the year.
Report submitted by Betty Cochran, Chair.

REPORT OF THE CONGREGATIONAL LIFE COMMITTEE

Committee activities included the following:

Recognized 2015 new members at a hospitality reception during January and presented them with new member
packets
Provided hospitality on the first Sunday of each month to recognize birthdays in the congregation
Sent cards from the congregation to the homebound 4 times this year
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Sponsored a wine tasting on January 29 with donations collected for Wine to Water
Organized and held a yard sale on March 5 that grossed $1383.04 which was designated for renovation of 3 rd
floor bathrooms
Made floral palm crosses for distribution on Easter Sunday
Arranged for photos for revision of member directory compiled by
Jim Byerly
Organized Congregational picnic at Forest Hill Park on June 5, 2016
Joint effort with Social Ministry preparing VBS toiletry kits for Saint Josephs Villa
Held an Oktoberfest on September 23 featuring a Luther hymn sing
Sponsored Congregational Challenge for Feed More and collected 630 food items.
Held a Halloween party on October 26 as part of Wednesdays Together
Arranged interviews between our youth and seniors to be shared with the congregation
Two VCU Art Show displays were held in the undercroft

Jim Byerly organized and led the following activities:

Slave Trail walk on Saturday April 9, 2016

Humpback Rock hike and picnic on May 21, 2016
Capital to Capital bike ride and lunch at Culs Courthouse
Grill on July 16
Flying Squirrels game on Monday, July 18
Vine Tastings and tour on September 17
Bowling and Dinner on November 12

Supper Clubs were originally organized under this committee so the activities of the North Side Supper Club will be
included in this report. The group met 8 times during the year and the following are the highlights of their activities.

Members visited the homebound 3 times this year. This originated as a Christmas cookie activity that grew into
additional visits. Cookies were provided again this year for the third year.
Provided toiletry kits for Saint Josephs Villa
Sponsored a cookbook fund raiser to assist Joyce Smith
Attended the Christmas Tea at the Jefferson Hotel

Submitted by Margaret Thisted, acting chair

Committee members: Jim Byerly, Reni Gower, Melissa Shaffer, Joyce and Joedy Smith, Cookie Williams, Linda Wallace

REPORT OF THE WOMEN OF THE ELCA

We met the second Friday of each month except for June, July and August when we go dark for the summer. Each month we had
lunch, a program and a business meeting.
The 2016 officers and committee members were: Peggy Davis, President; Libby Riggle, Vice President; Melissa Shaffer, Treasurer;
Carrie Jacobson, Secretary; Libby Riggle and Peggy, Mission Growth (Justice); Betty Davidson, Mission Community
(Stewardship)and Mission Action (Dicipleship) and Libby and Peggy, Evangelism.

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We were saddened by the loss of one of our most devoted members, Carrie Jacobson. Carrie served as President and Secretary of this
organization for many years. I wish to thank Bonnie Buckner and Melissa for stepping in when needed this past year to take on some
of Carries duties. They had BIG shoes to fill.
Some of our projects this past year are listed below:
We collected greeting cards which were sent to the Circle Center Adult Day Care, Campbells bar codes, box tops and labels were
taken to Lutheran Family Services and cancelled stamps were collected and taken to the National Lutheran Home. Toiletry items were
sent to the Ronald McDonald House, several quilts were made or purchased and donated to the Linus Project and afghans were
crocheted by some of our members and given to Lutheran Family Services. One month we furnished the alter flowers in memory of
the deceased members of First English Women of the ELCA.
In August, First English was represented at the Virginia Synodical Womens Organization Convention held at Epiphany Lutheran
Church in Richmond. Libby Riggle was our delegate.
We continued to sponsor the Leisure Group. Reports were given by Libby Riggle and Grace Gulick.
In conclusion, I wish to thank the officers and committee members for all of their hard work and dedication. Also, a big thank you to
those who have supported the Women of the ELCA by donations of afghans, blankets, stamps, cards, etc, attended our meetings,
gave their financial support, fixed our meals, helped with the clean-up, technical work, and the list goes on My sincere appreciation
to Pastor Schweitzer for his faithful support of the Womens Organization.
It has been a pleasure serving as President this past year and I look forward to working with you all in 2017.
Respectfully submitted by
Peggy Davis

REPORT OF THE SOUL STICHERS

If I can stop one heart from breaking,
I shall not live in vain;
If I can ease one life the aching,
Or cool one pain,
Or help one fainting robin,
Unto his nest again,
I shall not live in vain.
From the Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson
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New York: Avenel Books, p. 5.

This poem by Emily Dickinson describes the work of Soul Stitchers. We hope that our labors add a measure of comfort to
those who receive the final fruits or finished items. We are a group of four women (we were 5 but we wished Elaine Smith
well as she moved back to Pennsylvania in September) that has for the last three years made gifts for our home bound
members (lap blankets, slippers, and scarves). Two years ago we began to welcome infants born in the congregation with
a gift bag. This year, with the generous support of FELC members our Fall sale resulted in a significant financial
contribution to Joyce and Joedy Smith. We appreciate your support and still have many items available. Simply stop by
when we are working or talk with a member of the group if you are looking for a baby gift, or some other hand-crafted
item. We welcome donations of materials since this group is self-sustaining.
The group meets once a month on Sundays. We announce our meeting dates through the midweek announcements and in
the Sunday bulletin. We invite others to join us and are willing to provide instruction for those who want to learn a new
skill. Whether you crochet, knit, sew, embroider, or quilt, join us for an afternoon of fellowship and conversation. We
meet in the Scherer building on the third floor after the 10:30 service and generally finish by 2 pm. If you have friends
who are looking for a group to join, invite them to check us out. Occasionally, we have a work day on a Saturday
morning and break bread together.
Soon well decide on a gift for our home bound members for December 2017 and think about items to make for another
sale in the Fall which will support a need in the congregation. We have fun together and get a lot done!
Betty Cochran
Loutisha James
Marlene James
Carol Schweitzer

Meeting Notes

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