The Annual Report

Of Ministry & Administration

for 2013

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

Presented at the

Annual Meeting

Sunday, January 19, 2014

16 Bradley Avenue, Brattleboro, Vermont 05301

www.stmichaels-vt.org

802.254.6048

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SAINT MICHAEL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 16 Bradley Avenue

Brattleboro, Vermont 05031-3429

802-254-6048

www.stmichaels- -vt.org

PARISH STAFF The Reverend Mary D. Lindquist, Rector

The Reverend Deacon Joel G. Hill, Deacon

Ms. Jeanie Crosby, Parish Administrator

Ms. Susan Dedell, Director of Music

Mr. John Laamanen, Sexton

Ms. Darlene Rutnik, Financial Administrator

Ms. Jane Sbardella, B.S.N., Parish Nurse

The Reverend Thaddeus Bennett, Priest Associate

The Reverend Alfred Cramer, Priest Associate

The Reverend Jean R. Smith, Priest Associate

The Reverend Phillip Wilson, Priest Associate

WARDENS & VESTRY Mr. David Mattocks Senior Warden, class of 2014

Mr. Corwin Elwell, Junior Warden, class of 2014

Mr. Wayne Cook, Treasurer

Ms. Ronny Johnson, class of 2014 and Clerk

Ms. Judith Hildreth, class of 2014

Ms. Jenny Karstad, class of 2014

Ms. Linda Rice, class of 2015

Ms. Janet Cramer, class of 2015

Ms. Karen Guthrie, class of 2015

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Agenda Page 4

Minutes of 2013 Annual Meeting Pages 5-9

WORSHIP Rector’s Report Pages 10 - 13

Altar Guild Page 13

Greening of the Church Page 14

Sacramental Healing Page 14 - 15

Music Ministry Page 15 - 16

CHRISTIAN FORMATION Christian Formation Team/Adult Education Page 16 - 17

Twenties and Thirties Group Page 17

Education for Ministry Page 18

Christian Education/Children & Youth Page 18

Workshop Rotation Page 18

Godly Play Page 19

Youth Forum Page 19

Special Events Page 19

Contemplative Christianity Page 20

MISSION & MINISTRY CHABHA Pages 20

Episcopal Church Women Page 21

Mission & Outreach Pages 21 - 23

Parish Health Page 23

Schroeder Fund Page 24

Stewardship Team Page 24

Parish Life Page 25

Dream Catching 2.0 Page 25

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Vestry (from the Senior Warden) Pages 26 - 27

Capital Campaign Page 27

Endowment Committee Page 28

Memorial Garden Page 28

Nominating Committee Page 29

Building for the Future Pages 29-32

Buildings and Grounds Pages 32-33

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St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

Brattleboro, Vermont

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE PARISH

Sunday, January 19, 2014

AGENDA

Call to Order

Opening Prayer

Verification of Quorum

Appointment of Clerk of the Meeting

Minutes of the 2012 Annual Meeting

Reports Received by Title

Acknowledgements

Report concerning Construction and Finance

Report of the Nominating Committee

Candidates for Vestry & for Delegates to Diocesan Convention

Balloting

Distribution of proposed 2014 budget

Announcements of Election & Appointments for 2014

Adjournment

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St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Brattleboro, VT

Annual Meeting January 29, 2013

Minutes A short slide show featuring life at St. Michael’s in 2012 preceded the meeting. Meeting called to order The meeting was called to order at 12:13 pm with a prayer led by the Rector Mary Lindquist. Verification of Quorum Gayle Potter, clerk, verified there was a quorum. There were 79 parishioners present. Minutes of 2012 Annual meeting Bill Ames noted a spelling error. On page 5, third line of Building for the Future Committee report: correct spelling of name-should be Dan Drish not Drisk.

MOTION: Thad Bennett moved to approve the minutes as corrected: Corky Elwell seconded the motion. Motion passed with no abstentions or objections.

Report of the Nominating Committee Bill Ames was called to podium to introduce slate of vestry nominees. Bill explained that in accordance with our by-laws the Nomination Committee is made up of retiring vestry members. 2012 retiring members included: Ricky Davidson, Sissi Loftin and Bill Ames. In most years, the Nomination Committee presents the exact number of nominees to match the number of opening. This year we’d like to be more transparent and democratic. We pursued more nominees than openings. We’re electing: 3 members to three-year terms and 1 member to fulfill one year term left now vacant. Matt Wocjik is unable to complete his term. All candidates have made a statement of their service that was published in the Guardian and Sunday Bulletins. Ballots will be distributed with all six names. The candidates are:

1. Janet Cramer 2. Karen Guthrie 3. Veronica Johnson 4. Jenny Karstad 5. Keith Maillard 6. Ken Neilson

The rector noted that other vestry nominations can come from the floor. There being no other nominations, ballots were passed out and parishioners were asked to vote for 4 of the 6 names on the ballot. Length of vestry term will be decided by the number of votes received by a candidate. Elected to the 3-year positions will be the three candidates with most votes. The person in fourth place will fill the one-year term. Parishioners voted and ballots were collected. Tellers are members of the nominating committee. They will retire to another room to count the ballots.

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Delegates to Diocesan Convention Rector Mary Lindquist reported that Paul Moberly and Dawn Kotapish have volunteered to be diocesan delegates. Joyce Morgan and Chris Hart volunteered alternates to be alternates...As senior warden, David Mattocks is also a delegate

MOTION: Thad Bennett moved that the clerk cast one ballot for the slate. Seconded by Corky Elwell. Motion passed. The slate was elected:

Deligates: Paul Moberly, Dawn Kotapish Alternates: Joyce Morgan, Chris Hart

2013 Budget Treasurer Doug Switzer briefly explained what was contained in the materials distributed with the annual report. Comments from treasurer: Endowment Fund report – The fund had a 3% growth even after a draw of 6% was taken to support operations of the church. The general endowment fund has been almost depleted. Some of the money in this fund was $100,000 realized from the sale of 74 Harris Avenue. This money was earmarked to cover some of the construction cost in the Building for the Future project. 2013 Proposed Budget – Two meetings were held last Sunday for the purpose of reviewing and discussing the budget. It was also reviewed by the vestry at its meeting on January 17th. It was noted that the bottom line on the last page shows there is a $5,800 deficit presently. Expenses are padded to allow for the unexpected. In 2012 we began the year with a deficit budget but ended with a surplus and it is hoped that 2013 will end the same way.

Q. A question from the floor was asked concerning the Hogle Fund: Is the Finance Committee satisfied with the bank’s reporting and management of this account as there are new unitrust laws that distributes a specific amount instead of just income? A. Doug explained that there are two Hogle Funds: one is an investment made from a bequest from Dr. Hogle and the other is a fund used to preserve a wild life sanctuary near the Retreat. St. Michael’s is one of the beneficiaries of Hogle preservation fund. The Hogle Fund Committee decides what will be spent on the preserve each year. Any remaining funds (unspent money) from the draw are divided between St. Michael’s and another beneficiary. Checks received from this fund are unpredictable and out of our control

We are satisfied with the bank’s handling of St. Michael’s investment Hogle fund.

The Balance sheets shows various funds of the church. It gives shows the start and end-of-year balances of each fund. Rector Mary Lindquist acknowledged Doug’s faithful services over the past three years. She announced he is stepping down from the treasurer position but has agreed to stay on as assistant treasurer. Doug deeply cares about how we use our resources. He’s frugal and has saved the church many dollars. A gift certificate to a restaurant was presented to Doug in appreciation for his dedication and service. Wayne Cook has agreed to be our new treasurer. Reports Received by Title Committee reports are contained within the written annual report booklet. Mary noted the Welcome Committee was sent electronically but due to a glitch, it was not received and therefore not printed in this report so I would like to read it. (See page 6 for a complete copy of the Welcome Committee Report as read.)

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MOTION: Mary entertained a motion to receive the annual reports from committees by title. So moved by Ricky Davidson and seconded by Chris Hart. Motion passed without any abstentions or objections.

Report Concerning Finance and Construction Co Chair Corky Elwell briefly reviewed a distributed copy of a summary of the church renovations and costs. The total project cost was estimated at $949,000+ which did not include soft costs such as engineering costs, architect fees, capital campaign expenses, soil testing, etc. There are also unexpected costs that become evident only after destruction for construction reveals a problem. One such cost was asbestos removal. Corky made mention of a few of the soft costs and unexpected:

- Architect fees charged prior to construction was approximately $33,000. - Soil test and other engineering cost not included in architectural fees were $10,557 - Removal of asbestos found during construction amounted to $25,052

Corky thanked members of construction committee who have put in 100s of hours. The committee includes: Ron Lenker, Judith McBean, and Alan McBean. (A parishioner noted that Corky is also a member and express thanks to him). Corky has faith that we will make it down the road. With Mike Wilmott and Gayle Potter’s help and their capital campaign committee, we did it—raised $800,000 (just under $1,500 to go). I’m convinced we can go next mile and pay for the overages. Our treasurer Doug Switzer has some has ideas on funding. At the end of the project, hopefully we’ll finish with minimal balance or no balance. Building Committee Co-Chair Judith McBean spoke. She had hoped that at this annual meeting her report would just be reviewing the construction and announcing completion of the project. As is predictable construction has gone over time and budget. Judith thank all present for their support, enthusiasm, and flexibility. Episcopalians are not known for being flexible. Parishioners responded with grace and flexibility when we needed to vacate the building. We expect construction completion by the second or third week of February. The elevator has caused much of the delay. It finally arrived this week. We’ve encountered problems and realized some old parts of the building were not going to cut it once new upgrades were completed, i.e., flooring in several areas of the building. New flooring was omitted from the project to decrease costs but after completion of upgrades, it was apparent that dingy floors left to be replaced at a later date were not going to cut it. The Bradley entrance existing door opens in wrong direction for easy access. It will be corrected.

Judith will be happy to retire this from position. She thanked the committee-Corky Elwell followed the contract; Ron Lenker watched the construction; Alan McBean has done everything else including kitchen work and painting. ADA requirements -- Not included was a push button electronic door opener to make the building barrier free. It is being investigated and do have a portion of the cost donated by an anonymous donor. There was applause from the congregation for this addition;

Q. Could a ramp be put on the south side of the Bradley Wing exterior door to eliminate replacing the door? A. In order to get the correct pitch need to comply with ADA, the ramp would go beyond over head by 4 or 5 feet. It seems it will be best to leave as is and use electronic entry. The current door is in bad shape.

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Q. Will doors between Bradley Wing and office area be replaced and will new doors automatically close in case of fire. A. Yes

Judith continued comments: Counter tops in the kitchen are being replaced. Volunteers are doing the work. The kitchen will not have exhaust hoods. The cost is exorbitant –$30,000 to $40,000. The committee decided on a “heat and serve” kitchen. There will be no baking or frying. The kitchen and undercroft will not be ready by Feb. 12th – Shove Tuesday. Balloting report: The tellers returned to the meeting after completing the ballot count. Ricky Davidson reported on the results of the election of vestry members. Ricky noted that it was a close election and the votes were recounted to make sure the tellers got it right. The election results:

Elected to the vestry for a three-year term ending in January 2016 are: Janet Cramer, Karen Guthrie, and Keith Milliard

Elected for one-year term is Jenny Karstad Mary was pleased that all were willing to place their names on the ballot and she announced a vestry meeting will be held immediately following this annual meeting for the 2013 Vestry. Rector’s Report: Mary Lindquist said that she included some of her report in her sermon and asked in the essence of time that individuals read her report at their leisure. However, she noted a few points: Four new ministries were established in 2012:

1. Parish life committee to help with hospitality 2. Permanent stewardship committee 3. The 20 and 30 group 4. Centering prayer group in spring

Two committees are in transition:

1. Welcome Team 2. ECW (Episcopal Church Women) is such a wonderful ministry. It began many years ago when

women couldn’t run for vestry. On February 9, a meeting will be held to get input from women of St. Michael’s regarding future direction of this group.

BFFC (Building for Future Committee) was recognized for all of its work. They spent a lot of time and energy planning our parish building improvements. Some members went on to be members of the Building Committee that worked with the contractors. Two parish Picnics were held in the summer of 2012. One at the home Bill and Nancy Ames and another at Betsy Bates’ home. Mary thanked them for hosting the picnics which gave opportunity of parish members to be together while our building was under construction. About the Vestry The Clerk of the Vestry is stepping down. Gayle Potter has served in this position for three years. Mary thanked Gayle for taking minutes at all vestry meetings, for her time and her knowledge of points of order. In appreciation,Gayle was presented with a gift certificate to a local restaurant. Lynne Lewandowski, a current member of the vestry, has agreed to serve as clerk.

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Corky Elwell, retiring Senior Warden and a member of the Building for the Future Committee, will continue on the Vestry as Junior Warden. David Mattocks will be the new Senior Warden. David has a lot of gifts including his knowledge of organization and finance and his deep spiritually. Outgoing vestry members Bill Ames, Ricky Davidson, Sissi Loftin and Matt Wojcik have been wonderful additions to the vestry. Mary presented each with a book of blessings. New members of our staff The parish secretary left in June and moved to Italy. We hired a great new person. Jeanne Crosby is organized, productive and is a great addition to staff. Thank you God, Thad Bennett joins the staff as priest associate. He has great energy and has an enthusiastic presence. Thank you Thad for serving. Finally, a special thanks to all who helped with our Sunday services’ move to the River Garden and Christ Church during our construction displacement. Our Sexton John was so important to our move to the River Garden. Our priest associates, deacon and so many others helped in many ways. Other Senior Warden Corky Elwell thanked Mary on behalf of all of us for her work Adjournment There was a unanimous motion to adjourn. The meeting was adjourned at 1:16 pm Respectfully submitted, Gayle Potter Clerk of the Vestry

The Welcome Committee Report

Members include: Sarah Benton, Betsy Bates, MJ Woodburn, Lori Palmer, Shirley Hodgdon, Sherry Stimmel,

Paul Moberly, Ken Jacobs, Sue Dyer, Judy Walker

2012 was a time of transition for this team having lost our leader and integral member, Robert Torrey in

December 2011. We gathered in the spring for a mini ½ day retreat and with the guidance of Mary, our

rector, we worked on healing from this loss and how best to move forward. With the upcoming work at the

church and being displaced from our regular worship space, we talked about what welcoming would look like

both at Guilford and at the River Garden. We wanted not only new comers to feel welcomed but our regular

worshipers as well. Because we knew we would need more help, MJ Woodburn took the lead to get a

summer/fall ROTA together to make sure we were covered at both locations. Thank you to all of you who

stepped up to volunteer to help us carry out this mission. Having returned to St. Michael’s in November, we

continue to seek out and welcome all.

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Rector’s Report on Worship, Pastoral offices, ordained

ministry, membership, and the parish register

From The Rector As I look back over 2013 for St. Michael’s, I am reminded of the fact that one year ago, we were still in the

midst of construction. We had moved back into our sanctuary, but much was still unfinished. Remember

the raw state of the Common Room? Remember that Jeanie and Joel’s offices were not completed and the

Chapel still needed doors?

2013 has been marked for me by a sense of completion and a sense of new beginnings. The sense of

completion has to do with the implementation and finishing of our building project. The sense of new

beginnings has to do with the redirection of our energies from the building to the shape of our mission in

the community and the world that is now so enhanced and supported by our physical plant.

Winter/Spring

As the construction workers continued work well into the spring, some leaders began to turn their attention

to the fact that we had not raised funds to furnish our new spaces. With the help of Zachary Roesemann

and Jane Reidel, the idea emerged to offer the congregation the opportunity to help furnish the church

through donating individual pieces to furnish the new spaces. The congregation responded generously,

funding chairs and couches and other furnishings. Especially generous was the Episcopal Church Women,

who have a history of helping to equip St. Michael’s with what we need.

During the winter months, St. Michael’s staff offered a well-attended Lenten Series called, “Living Faithfully

in a Culture of Violence.” The subject of this Lenten series arose out the sense of grief and concern we felt

after the shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December of 2012. The evenings began with a

simple meal, continued with an hour-long program and ended with a contemplative worship service in the

church.

Holy Week is always an important time of worship and prayer in our congregation and 2013 was no

exception. The profound week of worship ended with the Easter Vigil and the baptism of Chloe Hull and

Lilianna Saddler, as well as joyous Easter Sunday services. Chloe and Lilianna’s baptisms began a season of

baptisms in our congregation – more than we’ve experienced in decades. Between Easter and All Saints’

Day, we baptized twelve people, seven of whom were children between the ages of 7 and13. For me it was a

profound honor to participate in God’s grace in the sacrament of baptism. What a joy!

Summer Sometime in the beginning of June, the port-o-potty left. This was the most definitive sign to me that the

construction crew was finished. It didn’t seem possible! We had lived with our construction friends for

over a year and it was strange that there were no more crews painting, hammering or building.

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Another highlight of the summer was St. Michael’s first ever PRIDE service. I am very grateful to

Christopher Wesoloski, Thad Bennett and Paul Moberly who had the inspiration and vision to plan and

organize this service. The idea for this service came from a desire not only to support the many GLBT

members of our congregation, but also to communicate our support to the wider community. The major

symbol of this support was the beautiful rainbow flag that hung on St. Michael’s facing Bradley Avenue.

The worship service itself was beautiful and spirit-filled and many folks from the community came to St.

Michael’s for the first time.

In the summer, we also decided to celebrate the 8:00 am Eucharist at Christ Church once a month, since we

so enjoyed worshipping there in the summer of 2012. George and Laura Lewis also organized and

offered Evening Prayer at Christ Church every Sunday evening. At the end of the summer, St. Michael’s

hosted a national conference called Music that makes Community. Those who attended the conference raved

about St. Michael’s facilities, as well as the delicious meals provided by the St. Michael’s Choir.

Fall St. Michael’s hosted a huge celebration on St. Michael’s weekend, September 28-29. We had A LOT to

celebrate. In addition to the successful completion of our construction project and the attainment of our

goal for the Capital Campaign, we celebrated the 60th anniversary of the moving of the church from Main

Street to Bradley Avenue. The Celebration, which was named, “Opening Doors for the Glory of God,” was

marvelously planned by the Celebration Team of Janet Cramer, Craig Hammond and Annamarie

Pluhar. They went above and beyond the call to involve dozens of people from St. Michael’s in the Open

House on Saturday, September 28. The church was beautifully decorated, many tour guides were on hand

to show visitors our church and Ron Lenker’s beautiful book “Dreams Captured” detailing the entire

renovation process was published in time for the celebration. In the evening, we celebrated Choral

Evensong and the Consecration of the Chapel of Mary Magdalene, the First Apostle, with Bishop Ely.

Evensong was followed by a delicious dinner in the Undercroft, where we recognized and gave thanks for

the many people who had worked so hard and contributed to this project. The next day we celebrated a

joyous festival Eucharist, with seven people being confirmed, two people being received and two people

being baptized.

In conjunction with the Celebration weekend, we held three sessions called “Dreamcatching 2.0.” With the

help of the dream-catching team – Bill Ames, Nancy Barber, Laurie Chiperfield, Sue Dyer, Suzanne

Grannis, Ronny Johnson, Robin White-Diamondstone - we invited people from the congregation to

dream together And asked them “ What is the church of your wildest dreams? Imagine a church that

would inspire you to contribute your best self.” About 60 people participated in these brainstorming

sessions and we gathered a lot of data. A short summary can be found later in this annual report and the

Vestry will be using the results to help chart St. Michael’s vision for the next couple of years.

In October, St. Michael’s screened the documentary, “Love Free or Die” at the Latchis theater and

welcomed Bishop Gene Robinson himself to Brattleboro to answer questions after two showings of the

documentary. Like the PRIDE Sunday in the fall, this event was an outreach to the community as well as

a source of inspiration for the people of St. Michael’s.

We were grateful this fall to welcome many new families with children. Because of the growth of our

children’s ministry, the Godly Play team is developing new ways to accommodate their wonderful ministry.

The year ended with joyous and snowy Christmas celebrations!

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Thank you

Thank you to David Mattocks who has served as Senior Warden during this 2013. David was a

prayerful and supportive presence for the Vestry and for me and I am very grateful for David’s wise

counsel and faithful service.

I am grateful to Janet Cramer for agreeing to serve as Senior Warden in 2014. Janet brings

tremendous gifts to our ministry and I look forward to working closely with her in 2014.

Thank you to Corky Elwell and Judith Hildreth, outgoing Vestry members. Both Corky and

Judith have served on the Vestry since I arrived and I will miss them greatly!

Thank you to Wayne Cook who became our treasurer this year. Wayne has worked countless

hours together with our new bookkeeper, Darlene Rudnick, to keep our finances well-organized

and balanced.

Many thanks to Lynne Lewandowski, who served as clerk until her resignation from the Vestry in

June, and to Ronny Johnson, who has served as clerk for the remaining months of 2013. Both

Lynne and Ronny did a great job helping to record the salient portions of our Vestry meetings.

Thank you to Linda Neilson who has served as St. Michael’s pledge secretary for the last few years.

Linda has spent countless hours at St. Michael’s recording and organizing and communicating

pledges. She has done a terrific job with this important ministry. Linda is now in the process of

training Jeanie Crosby to take over this important task.

The Staff of St. Michael’s Church is the best staff a rector could hope for---gifted, generous, fun

and loving. I continue to feel so well supported by Jeanie, Joel, Susan, John, Al, Jean, Phillip and

Thad. The diversity and depth of gifts that the staff so generously offers St. Michael’s is rich

indeed. We are so blessed to have them share in our ministry together.

Of course in all we have done and all we do, we are upheld and guided by the powerful love of God in

Jesus Christ. God has blessed us richly this year and it is my hope that we continue to grow together in

our trust and our love of God through our ministry together in Christ’s name.

Yours in Christ,

Mary

WORSHIP

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated on 52 Sundays.

There were 55 mid-week celebrations of the Holy Eucharist.

During 2013 we offered 52 weekly Contemplative Services Thursdays at 5:30pm and 52 sessions of Saturday

morning Centering Prayer.

Holy Baptism was celebrated 12 times (Chloe Hull, Lilianna Saddler, Emily Nohl, Addison Weaver, Aiden

Anderson, Jayne Fritz, Caleb Fritz, Clara Fritz, Julia Fedoruk, Annelise Fedoruk, Julian Siegel, Ron Doty-

Tolaro).

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There were 7 Confirmations in 2013, Brandon Batham, John Byrnes, Dawn Kotapish, Jack Lilly, Margit

Lilly, Ken Jacobs, Deborah Jones. We also received Michael Doty-Tolaro and Leigh Marthe.

The Blessing of a Marriage was celebrated 2 times (Hannah McLaughlin & Kemper Diehl, Lucia Osiecki &

Deborah Jones).

Home Communion was conducted 37 times.

Holy Communion was brought to nursing home residents (Pine Heights, Thompson House and Hilltop

House) once a month.

The Burial office was conducted on 10 occasions (Keith Maillard, Madolyn Meyer, Carey Lane, Dorothy

Hutchins, Kamil Burrows, Toby Sprague, John Russell, Greta Jones, Hazel Looker).

Average Sunday attendance in 2013 was 157 per Sunday, an increase of 10 per Sunday over the 2012 Sunday

average attendance (147 per Sunday).

Reports from Worship Ministries

ALTAR GUILD Our Guild has experienced many changes during 2013. First and foremost was the sudden loss of our

beloved leader Carey Lane. We continue to miss her wisdom, good humor and helping hand! All Altar Guild

members stepped forward to fill the gap. Three of us (Judy Walker, Craig Newbert and Sue Dyer) agreed to

share the Director’s role as we chart new territory together.

We have held three workbees and meetings. Members have been invaluable in offering suggestions and new

ideas. An inventory list has been developed to assist us in tracking supplies (thanks, Craig). Vestments have

gradually traveled to the dry cleaner for refreshing (thanks to Laurie). Sacristy reorganization continues on a

monthly basis with the hope of making items more accessible. Addition of a whiteboard helps greatly with

communication among team members (thanks, Judy!).

We have welcomed two new members: Laurie Chiperfield and Sherry Stimmel. Mary Carnahan has

conducted training for new members and offered a refresher class for the entire Guild – there always seems

to be something new to learn! Serving on the Altar Guild continues an ancient tradition in the Church and

we warmly welcome folks to let us know if you might be interested in exploring this ministry.

Respectfully submitted, Sue Dyer, Craig Newbert and Judy Walker

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GREENING OF THE CHURCH It was again this year such a joy to green your church in preparation for the season. It is my honor and

privilege to oversee this amazing event along with Ray and Rae Eagan. The church was once again

festooned with hanging balsam garland, large bows, kissing balls, the Christmas tree, and the beautiful

poinsettias. Thanks go to all the “regulars” for their ongoing support, and to the “newcomers” to the team

this year. It is always exciting for us to have new people join this event. Thanks to Diana Bingham and

Laura Lewis for arranging the poinsettias and the members of the Altar Guild for helping in so many ways

to make this possible. The “greening team” continues to be a well oiled machine and it is my pleasure to

work with all involved.

As in past years, the balsam roping and greens come from a local farmer Brent Miller, at Mill River Farm in

Bernardston Massachusetts. Not only are we making the church beautiful, we’re also supporting a local

family enterprise. Brent doesn’t use wire in constructing the garland, and this makes it easy to dispose of

them. The poinsettias were again purchased (at a discount) from the Brattleboro Union High School

Horticulture Program as a fund raiser for their group.

As always one of the most enjoyable parts about decorating the church for Advent and Christmas, other

than the amazing smell of the church, is the teamwork of all the people who come out to help—young

people, old people, veterans of this activity, and total newcomers. The fresh cider doughnuts that Linda Rice

brings are pretty enjoyable also!

For Advent the garland and wreaths are festooned with purple ribbons and bows, and purple glass

ornaments on the tree. After the Fourth Sunday of Advent and before Christmas Eve, these are changed to

red ribbons and bows, red ornaments on the tree and hanging the angel above the manger.

The Eagans and I love doing this, and enjoy the close knit “greening” team that has developed over the past

few years along with our very welcomed first timers. It is my pleasure to organize this wonderful event.

Thank you. Kate McGinn

SACRAMENTAL HEALING

Jesus himself was a healer and through his healing he revealed the kingdom of God: “a hope we can hold onto that will hold onto us.”

Jesus’ ministry on earth was very much a ministry of healing. As followers of Christ, we believe that we are

called to continue this ministry of healing in Jesus’ name. Our Ministers of Sacramental Healing, both lay

and clergy, have discerned a call to this ministry and have received extensive training. This healing takes

many forms – physical, spiritual and emotional – and is a profoundly important part of St. Michael’s

ministry.

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Spiritual healing depends upon the action of the Holy Spirit and our willingness to invite and trust that

loving Spirit to guide and direct our lives. A “healing team” of parishioners supports those who request

prayers for healing for themselves, prayers of healing for others, prayers in thanksgiving and also supports

those who come just to be anointed. The sacrament of healing regularly occurs on Sundays after the 8 AM

service and again during Communion at the 10:15 AM service. No prayer request is too big or too small.

Healing is a visible reminder that we are not alone in our walks of life and that God is in the midst of them

through each of us. Each healing minister knows it takes courage to come forward whether it is for the first

time or the 100th time and with that in mind, we are humbled and honored in your allowing us to pray for

you and with you in the presence of the Holy One. It is God’s words that are prayed each and every time

that reveal the hope that is God’s healing through Jesus Christ.

Our group meets at 5 PM the first Tuesday evening of each month. Our regular monthly meetings are

shaped to offer spiritual support for ourselves and an opportunity to read and discuss any and all things

about faith, prayer, and what it means to heal and be healed. Because confidentiality is essential to our work,

we do not discuss any concerns or prayer requests brought to us by parishioners. Once a year, we go on

retreat for fellowship, renewal, and learning. In 2013 we travelled to the Immanuel Retreat Center in

Bellows Falls. It was here that we were able to put aside our everyday lives and schedules to focus on ways

to deepen our relationship to God and to equip us for the healing ministry to which we have felt called.

Janet Cramer, Robin White, Sarah Benton, Margit Lilly, MJ Woodburn, Trudy Crites, Betsy Bates and Jean

Smith offered prayers with anointing during the liturgy, in homes, or at hospital by request during 2013.

Members of the congregation who would like to learn more and explore sharing in this ministry are

welcome to speak to a member of the Sacramental Healing ministry. They will invite you to join in their

study and prayer. The Rector meets with all candidates who have completed a period of study and prayer to

discern if this ministry is appropriate for them.

For the Healing Ministry, Sarah Benton

MUSIC AT ST. MICHAEL’S St. Michael's continues to be a musically vibrant parish, with spirited congregational singing, a committed

and skilled weekly choir, and wonderful support lay musicians. The new music and robe storage room is

proving to be a great space, helping us to keep our materials in good shape and well organized. The

Dunham Room renovation was completed and the resulting space is proving to be very fine for choir

rehearsals of both adults and children. Thanks to a gift from Pat Cameron, we were able to obtain a much

needed new rehearsal piano, which will last the church for many, many years to come. Thanks to a gift from

the estate of Helen Daly, the church also became the owner of a beautiful Mason and Hamlin grand, which

was rebuilt with funds given by the Dalys. This piano has greatly enhanced our ability to provide beautiful

music for worship services, weddings and funerals, and musical programs and recitals.

This year had some of the regular high points in music ministry (Evensong, Choir Retreat, Advent Lessons

and Carols) as well as some new events and activities. We hosted "Music Makes Community" in August, a

national workshop/conference that teaches about the use of music as community/spirituality

building, particularly music that can be taught and learned without paper or notation. The participants and

organizers were blown away by the hospitality they were shown from everyone at St. Michael's. The choir

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provided them with meals for the 3-day event that were simply extraordinary! The large increase in the

population of children has led to the formation of a potentially rather wonderful children's chorus. Up to 24

children have participated in singing together after church and they very ably helped lead worship during

Advent and Christmas.

We are working on plans to increase our musical offering to children, as well as seniors, and to the wider

Brattleboro community in some exciting new ways. Details of some upcoming programs will be outlined in

subsequent Guardians and church-wide bulletins. Stay tuned!

Respectfully submitted, Susan Dedell, Director of Music

Reports from Christian Formation

CHRISTIAN FORMATION/ADULT EDUCATION The “Sunday Forum Committee” lines up forums for the months from January to early June. Our meetings

are held over breakfast at the Backside Café, usually on the first Wednesday of the month. Depending on

circumstances, we may take a month off in early summer, but we tend to meet year ‘round. If you would

like to come to a meeting, contact Nancy Barber. The forums are held each Sunday from 9-10 AM in the

Meeting Room.

We continue to refer to our Mission Statement to keep us on track): “The Adult Forums will offer a diversity of topics covering:

different interests (outreach, scripture, contemplative Christianity, spirituality, tradition, community interests, etc.),

experiences of faith,

the basics of Christianity and the Episcopal Church (for both those new to the church and those who want to rediscover their roots) and

specialized topics (for deeper understanding)

In the context of: o small, high-commitment/confidential small group offerings, o open, low-commitment offerings (forums), and o a balance between content and discussion.”

All offerings are to be connected to our context (Christian, faith community); all topics should ask the

question, “How does this connect to our faith?” or “So what?”.

This year we began in September with Ron Lenker’s wonderfully illustrated talk on St. Michael’s renovation,

from the first nail removed to final completion, including the addition of furniture, window dressings, art

work, door openers, parking lot, and front lawn. Following this, Bob Anderson’s lecture on the History of

St. Michael’s was given twice, to great acclaim, once during forum time and again during our Open House.

In October, Susan Heimer and Christy Fritz gave a wonderful demonstration of Godly Play storytelling and

then Sissi Loftin and Janet Brocklehurst led a discussion, with great sensitivity, of the film “Love Free or

Die” which we had seen at the Latchis. Bishop Tom was with us for the Open House in October and

opened our annual conversation about Diocesan issues and plans. Young Adult Spirituality was very ably

led by Paul Moberly and Samantha Sharff who helped us get acquainted with issues of keeping millenials in

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the church and made us aware of the “nones” (religiously unaffiliated people). Nancy Barber and Linda

Neilson, both birthmothers, told their stories during the final forum of October. Mary Lindquist led the

first forum in November about the saints at St. Michael’s, both present and absent. It was a wonderful

reminiscence. November followed with a Report on Diocesan Convention and an open Vestry meeting;

Phillip Wilson led a pre-Thanksgiving forum on gratitude to close out the month. We were once again

treated by a visit from Hunter and Kathryn Swanson who talked about expectation, the forum theme for

Advent, and the anticipation of their first baby. Joel Hill, appropriate to the season, gave us an interesting

glimpse into the life of St. Nicholas. Thad Bennett, with great style, helped us to think about what’s next

after Advent. In January, Phillip Wilson, who loves leading forums and we love hearing them, led us in a

discussion of the Three Kings, which was followed by a “non-forum” Sunday, prepared but not given by

Jean Smith who would have talked about expectant living except that it snowed and she couldn’t make it to

church – and neither could many of us.

So here we are at Annual Meeting time, looking forward to the new year and many more forums: get ready

for Annamarie Pluhar’s forum on housing, Rwanda and weaving with Susan Wilson and Melissa Johnson,

Digital Age Resources with Mary Lindquist, and a Vestry Report on their retreat. We announce forum

topics in the Guardian, in the weekly email blasts, and in the Sunday Bulletins. Please talk to any committee

member if you have ideas for forum topics or any other feedback you would like the committee to have.

Respectfully submitted: Bill Ames, Nancy Barber (chair), Joel Hill, Mary Lindquist, Annamarie Pluhar, Ruth

Tilghman, and Phillip Wilson

TWENTIES AND THIRTIES GROUP The 20s/30s group continued to grow in 2013. As of the end of the year, more than thirty people are on the email list

and are regularly invited to participate in events for the 20s/30s age group. Of this group of thirty, about a third,

regularly or semi-regularly attend after-church brunch gatherings and other social activities.

In March, on Palm Sunday, the 20s/30s began meeting for a last Sunday of the month brunch gathering, held

immediately after the 10:15 Eucharist. Typically, 6-8 people gather each month at various local restaurants for food

and fellowship. We met the last Sunday of every month from March through November and there seems to be

energy around continuing this custom in 2014.

On May 26, several members of the 20s/30s group, along with a number of other members of the parish, joined with

Trinity Lutheran Church to visit Cathedral in the Night in Northampton, MA. Cathedral in the Night is a ministry to

homeless residents; which involves an informal, shared Eucharist under a tent in the center of town and then serving

a meal to those gathered. Members of both Trinity and St. Michael's participated in leading worship and serving food.

On Sunday, October 20, members of the 20s/30s fellowship, led by Samantha Sharff and Paul Moberly, participated

in and led a discussion regarding Young Adult Spirituality for the Adult Forum in the 9 o'clock hour. We included

some news articles and audio from a public radio story regarding the phenomenon of the rise of the "spiritual but not

religious," which is a sense of religious non-belief and/or affiliation that is pervasive among young adults in the US

currently. A small group gathered for this discussion, including several members of the 20s/30s group, as well as

some older parishioners, and a vigorous and productive conversation emerged during that hour.

On Friday, December 13, a Christmas party was held in Gill, MA at the home of Sarah and David Warren on the

campus of Northfield-Mount Hermon School. Participants shared a simple meal of bread and soup, beer and wine

and a Yankee Swap gift exchange was the highlight of the evening. With few minor injuries resulting from black ice

along the sidewalk, it was generally agreed that the time was a collegial and joyful one; we hope to repeat this tradition

in 2014.

Paul Moberly

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EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY

Education for Ministry aka EfM is a program that deepens the knowledge, experience, worship and spiritual

lives of lay persons through weekly sessions. EfM is a 4 year program. The first year involves study of

Hebrew Scriptures, second year is New Testament, third year is a study of the early church history, and the

4th year covers the development of the church in the 19th and 20th centuries. In addition to the study of

scripture, each session engages in theological reflection – a conversation that involves the tradition, the

culture and our own life experiences. It is the theological reflection that moves us toward ministry in the

world.

Many people think that one must be ordained in order to be "a minister." The fact is that all baptized

Christians are called to be active participants in the church's total ministry. This total ministry is nothing less

than the exercise of the church's vocation to continue the ministry of Jesus. In our theological discussions,

we always end by asking the question – “So what? So what difference does my faith make when I leave here

and go into the world? How will I act in faith as a result of our conversation?”

Members of EfM enroll one year at a time. This year there were two groups. One group met in the

afternoon and the other met in the early evening. Because the curriculum was revised and updated, several

graduates returned to take a year with the new curriculum and textbooks.

If you are interested in exploring EfM, we will begin recruiting for the next year in the Spring. Look for

demonstrations and speak with Joel Hill or a member of the group if you are interested in learning more.

Joel Hill, EfM Mentor and Coordinator for the Diocese of Vermont

CHRISTIAN FORMATION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH Christian

Education for children and youth is made up of many programs: Workshop Rotation, Godly Play, Youth

Forum and special activities. Overall, Christian formation for children and youth went very well—and

grew!--- in 2013. We have a Sunday morning rhythm of having education for all ages from 9-10am and

Godly Play for young children during the first half of the 10:15 am service.

WORKSHOP ROTATION Workshop Rotation classes are held from 9-10 am on Sunday mornings for kids age 2-10 years old. In this

curricular model, children study one story for 4-5 weeks using different approaches every week (drama, art,

science, video, cooking, etc.). The strength of the curriculum is that it is very active and engaging for the

children, and we can incorporate many different adults from St. Michael’s to share their gifts with the

children. Many thanks to the Workshop teachers and assistants from 2013 who each oversaw one story

series: Alix Fedoruk, Samantha Sharff, Jenn Course, Laura Lewis, Janet Brockhurst, Sissi Loftin, Lydia

Taggart, Kelli Allen, Mary Lindquist, Karren Meyer, Gwen Mousin and Jane Sbardella.

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GODLY PLAY Every Sunday at 10:15, the children of the parish are welcome to come to Godly Play. While the adults are

participating in the Liturgy of the Word, the part of the service that includes all the readings and sermon, the

children have a Liturgy of the Word that is tailored to younger minds. Bible stories are told with the help of

props that illustrate the stories. Children are encouraged to listen to the story and then to wonder about the

story. After the story telling, children are invited to do an activity. Their choices are art, or playing with the

props of a particular story.

Every Godly Play session has a storyteller and a doorkeeper. The storyteller memorizes the story so that in

the telling they can easily manipulate the props. The doorkeeper helps out in a variety of ways. This year we

have had a large increase in the number of children coming to Godly Play in a wide range of ages.

We are offering an alternative activity for the older children who are interested. Each has been given a Bible

which they have covered and decorated. Each week, they read the actual scripture lesson from which the

story was drawn and are invited to make a bookmark for the story. The Bibles are kept in our library.

Storytellers, doorkeepers and leaders for the older session are: this year included Christy Fritz, Jayne Fritz,

Josh Fritz, Susan Heimer, Jessica Mattson, Drew McDowell, Annamarie Pluhar, Jane Sbardella, Jean Smith,

and Lydia Taggert.

Respectfully submitted, The Godly Play Team

YOUTH FORUM The Youth Forum has had an influx of new members with 6 young people there many weeks. This past year

we also became involved with the interfaith youth group, which is giving young people from St Michael's a

chance to get to know and spend time with young people from other religious groups in the greater

Brattleboro area. As part of the interfaith youth group, our young people have been involved in helping to

prepare and serve meals at the winter overflow shelter. Also, with money from the outreach committee, the

kids from the youth forum shopped for Christmas presents for kids who live at Morningside Shelter and

might not otherwise have presents to open on Christmas morning.

Ricky Davidson

SPECIAL EVENTS This last year we had a number of special outings for youth and adults including a ski trip to Grafton Ponds (thank

you Betsy Bates), and two Godly Play picnics at Annamarie Pluhar’s place. These outings were terrific and we hope

to do more in the future!

We also had a fabulous Christmas Pageant directed by Annie Landenberger on Christmas Eve. Over 35 children and

youth participated!

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CONTEMPLATIVE CHRISTIANITY With the full use of The Chapel of Mary Magdalene, the First Apostle, St. Michael’s contemplative

ministries have grown! We are so grateful to have a beautiful and holy space in which to be still and

commune with God.

We have a group of between 8-12 people (both community members and parishioners) who attend the Thursday evening Contemplative service and a slightly smaller group who gather on Saturday mornings from 8-9am to practice centering prayer and study Thomas Keating’s book, Open Mind, Open Heart. Because of the generosity and faithfulness of Parker Hueber, we have been able to add another opportunity for people to pray in silence, from 6-7am every weekday morning.

We will be offering an Introduction to Contemplative Prayer in January of 2014. We hope more people

will take advantage of the amazing resources we have for prayer at St. Michael’s.

REPORTS FROM MISSION AND MINISTRY

CHABHA: Children Affected by HIV/AIDS Dear St Michael’s Community, Let me first start by saying the renovation is beautiful and I would like to congratulate all of you on a very successful job. We are grateful for the office space that you have provided us, as well as the use of St Michael’s for our annual meetings and events in Brattleboro. On behalf of the CHABHA staff, the board of directors thanks you for your continuous support. In January, June and October of this year Susan Wilson and Susanna Grannis organized three coin rolls, which has been a terrific way to raise the awareness of CHABHA’s mission and involve the youth of St Michael’s. We would like to begin a pen pal program with some of the children from CHABHA’s partners and children in the states. Attached is a letter from one of the children CHABHA supports who participates in the after school program. This year we were very humbled and honored to receive the generous contribution from St Michael’s Outreach Committee to fund the growing cost of school contributions and health insurance cards. The Rwanda government over the last two years has implemented new rules for NGO support of education and health insurance, requiring NGO’s to pay 100% of the cost for children in school and to pay for the enrollment of the entire family, not just the child, in the national health insurance program. The Association leaders and CHABHA staff have been able to identify and support the individuals and homes with the greatest need. However the need continues to grow and your ongoing support has allowed us to add more children and households. We are also addressing this growing need by developing additional vocational training and microfinance projects creating career opportunities for youth and generating income for households. We look forward to sharing with all of you the successes of your support in 2014. All the best in the New Year! Peace, David

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EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN For many years the Episcopal Church Women coordinated its ministry and fundraising activities through a

slate of officers. In 2013 the group recognized the Spirit was stirring within us to seek a new model for the

organization in response to changing roles and needs of women in our community.

The group offered its deep appreciation to Dodo Rice, Pat Laubach, Mary Carnahan and Susan Wilmott for

their devotion and commitment to leading the ECW in its excellent work and for setting a high standard in

providing financial assistance to the greater community; $20,000 from ECW funds were contributed to

Church furnishings and $3,000 was contributed to Save Our Homes.

The May and October tag sales, which were initially an ECW project, have evolved into a parish- wide

ministry which offers good fellowship as we sort and arrange an array of affordable items into a space

resembling a well-stocked department store. St. Michael’s tag sales are important to the community and will

certainly continue. The $12,952 generated by the tag sales was divided equally between Out Reach/Mission

and the Church Operating Budget.

Through a series of conversations, a new model of shared leadership has emerged within the women’s

group with teams of persons serving as program organizers for a season. Pat Cameron, Ruth Tilghman,

Rosie Wojcik and Irene Burtis helped organize three breakfast meetings that were held during the fall to

allow us to come to know one another better and to continue to discern our intentions as an organization.

Speakers included the Hallowell Singers, a staff member from SEVCA and the Rev. Nicholas Porter, who

spoke about his organization, The Jerusalem Peace Builders, which brings Christian, Jewish and Islamic

children together for a summer camp experience.

We look forward to continuing breakfast meetings in the new year, to welcoming and to following the

Spirit’s leading as new ministries emerge among us. From Irene Burtis, Susan Wilmott and Jean Smith

MISSION AND OUTREACH

The Mission and Outreach Committee of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church initiates, and supports

efforts through which we, committee and parishioners alike, can manifest our Christian beliefs by

helping persons in need, locally, nationally and internationally. This work involves not only our

“treasure”, but also our “time” and “talents”.

Acting on the resolution at Diocesan Convention 2012: “Resolved, that the 180th Convention of the

Diocese of Vermont encouraged its members to cultivate mindfulness about poverty in our communities,”

we are trying to be mindful and helpful in the area of poverty, especially hunger. The following is a

description of our activities this past year.

Locally

Initiated Diaper Sunday. Diapers were distributed by SEVCA and we will continue this work in the coming year.

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Supported Loaves and Fishes Food Kitchen so that they could purchase much needed serving pans with covers and to also cover some weekend food for struggling people who eat there. Supported the SIT Peace Camp’s barn dance for the campers from around the world. Helped start up another food backpack program in Windham County (Brattleboro has already a program in place) through a donation to the Putney Food Shelf Family Backpack Program, enabling four more kids to participate from January until the close of school in June. Donated to the Brattleboro Walk In Clinic that serves many local people without health insurance. Distributed Tag Sales funds to the Boys and Girls Club, the Heat Fund, the Reformer Christmas Stocking, Southern Vermont Aids Project and provided for repairs to the gazebo roof at the Holton Home. Nationally Participated in rebuilding in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy with a nine-member team traveling to Staten Island. We drove and spent a long weekend insulating; sheet rocking; taping, mudding and painting a small house, including the ceilings and small furnace room, for a physically disabled man. Some team members also helped in a food pantry distributing food.

Internationally

Supported CHABHA: hosted the 3 coin roll events to cover the costs of providing health cards and school fees for nearly 3,000 children. Children who have grown up in the organization and have finished high school (some, even college) are now working in good jobs to support themselves, therefore stopping the cycle of poverty.

Supported the Foyer Evangelique Orphanage administered by Pastor Dukens Janvier to purchase school supplies, shoes and clothes so children can attend school. Finally, the Outreach Team held a Ministry Fair during coffee hour in November. It was wonderful to see the number of ministries that so many of our St. Michael’s family were involved in. We anticipate this will be an annual event.

If you would be interested, contact one of the Committee members: Co-Chairs Susan Wilson and Lori

Palmer, Joyce Vining Morgan, Brian Morgan, Shirley Hodgdon, Hollis Carlisle, Laura Lewis, Susanna

Grannis and Joel Hill.

Organizations Funded From Outreach Ministry Funds for 2013

Local: Brattleboro Walk In Clinic Prescription Medications $1,500.00 SEVCA Disposable Diapers $659.51 Boys & Girls Club Meals $500.00 Morningside Shelter Christmas Presents for Children $500.00 Heat Fund Donation $3,000.00

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Reformer Christmas Stocking Donation $1,000.00 So. Vt. Aids Project Donation $1,000.00 Putney Food Shelf Family Foodbag Program $1,000.00 Loaves & Fishes Donation $500.00 1st Baptist Church Overflow Shelter for Shelving $200.00 SIT Peace Camp Port-A-John for Barn Dance $125.00 Hilltop House Repairs to gazebo roof $400.00 Poster Boards for Ministry Fair $31.02 National: Trip to Staten Island – Hurricane Sandy – Food, Transportation, Donation for tools/supplies ($1,700.00) (These were separate funds that we raised.) International: CHABHA Children's School Fees/Health Cards $6,000.00 Haiti Orphanage Children's School Uniforms/ School Supplies Christmas Meal and Presents $3,300.00 Christosal Foundation $250.00 TOTAL: $19,965.53 + ($1700)

Lori Palmer, Co-Chair

PARISH HEALTH MINISTRIES & PASTORAL CARE The Parish Health Ministry participates in pastoral care by providing food, transportation, and both financial

and spiritual assistance. We also provide comfort and warmth with our beautiful, hand knit prayer shawls.

Our team strives to be aware of the needs in our faith community. The Parish Health Ministry meets on the

second Wednesday of the month from 10:30-11:45 AM beginning with a Bible study. We meet in our new

office across from the Godly Play room. The Intercessory Prayer team meets on the first Monday of the

month at 3 PM. We continue to pray individually every day for each person on our list.

Our ministry goal is health in body, mind, and spirit for each member of our parish. We welcome new

members. If you can’t join us at the meeting, you can pray at home, cook a meal, or provide transportation

on Sunday or for a special event service. Jane Sbardella RN, Parish Nurse

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SCHROEDER FUND COMMITTEE Members: Ruth Tilghman, Ronny Johnson, Hollis Carlisle, Lynn Billington, Dan Drish, and Janet

Brocklehurst

We are responsible for two areas of expenditure of the Schroeder Restricted Endowment Fund: outreach

and education.

Education: We supported Mark Genszler at General Seminary with both tuition and books with

funds totaling $1500.

Out Reach: The bulk of our money and time goes to support the Help Fund. Each member of the

committee spent at least 2 months at the Help Fund’s weekly noon meetings. Help Fund gives

grants to individuals for: help with housing deposits, car repairs, back electrical payments. In general

the help is to keep families in their housing. SEVCA ( Southeastern Vermont Community Action) is

the main agency that collects the requests from all the other agencies in town. At the meeting,

requests for grants are vetted; an individual grant may be up to $250. A total of $6,700 was donated

to the Help Fund.

Respectfully submitted, Ruth M, Tilghman, Convenor of the Committee

STEWARDSHIP St. Michael’s is a very generous congregation. Many people contribute to our community, whether is

through helping with one of our Tag Sales, or serving as an Usher or a Sunday School teacher, or by

building bookcases for our new offices. The life of our church rests completely on the gifts of the Body of

Christ called St. Michael’s. We are so grateful for the gifts of faithful participation, service and financial

contributions.

This year, our Annual Pledge Campaign (named in conjunction with our St. Michael’s Celebration in

September) was called “Opening New Doors for the Glory of God.” Dawn Kotapish, with the help of the

photographs of David Warren, put together an amazing brochure helping to chronicle our ministry at St.

Michael’s. We were also blessed to have Doug Switzer, Steven Meyer, Christy Fritz and Mark Genszler

speak about the importance of St. Michael’s in their lives at the 8 and 10:15 am services.

At the time of this writting (January 11), we have received 129 pledges for a total of $218,293. This is an

increase over where we were at the middle of January, 2012 (128 pledges for a total of $211,693). An

amazing 51 of the 129 pledges were increases from last year and we received 12 new pledges. We are so

grateful for the generosity and commitment the congregation has shown towards our ministry together.

We hope to continue to receive pledges in the next few weeks so that we can meet our goal of $220,000 to

support our mission and ministry in 2014.

Bill Ames, Sue Dyer, Chris Hart, Mary Lindquist, Dawn Kotapish, Brian Morgan

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PARISH LIFE TEAM Parish Life has continued to work on coordinating refreshments for various Parish events such as the Open

House & Supper celebrating our construction project and consecration of the Chapel, Lessons & Carols

service and most importantly, our coffee hour following the 10:15 service. The committee currently

consists of myself, Betsy Bates, Ruth Tilghman, Sherry Keefe and Ken Jacobs (our coffee angel). We

welcome anyone interested to join us in planning and coordinating Parish events. Linda Rice

DREAM-CATCHING 2.0 “Hope-filled God, you keep enlarging boundaries we try to set; raise our sights to new

horizons, greater dreams than we dream yet.” (offertory hymn, 10/20/13)

Now that the building project is essentially completed, it is time to think about our goals and priorities for

the next few years. Our new spaces—accessible, light-filled, efficient, beautiful—offer opportunity and

inspiration for exciting, meaningful new ways of being church and doing ministry. What kind of church do

we want to be? As a first step in discerning how to move forward, a dream-catching process similar to that

used in the building project was mounted to capture the ideas of the congregation. Parishioners gathered to

discuss, in small groups, what we were grateful for at St. Michael’s, and to describe the church that would

inspire us to be our best selves and the church of our “wildest dreams.” The gratefulness exercise in a way

defined who we are, and set the stage for dreaming about who we want to become. We were encouraged to

dream without concern for cost or how an idea might be implemented. The goal was to open our hearts and

minds to possibilities for ministry and growth. Three dream-catching sessions were held—on Saturday Sept.

21, Sunday Sept. 22, and Tuesday Oct. 8--at various times of day. Fifty-five people participated. Notes were

taken, the results compiled and summarized, and major themes highlighted.

Under Gratefulness, the most frequently cited themes were community, inclusiveness, music,

worship/beauty, kid-friendliness, and opportunities for outreach. In the words of one participant, St.

Michael’s is “a beautiful space in which to share hope and despair and all phases of life…” Under Visioning

the church of our dreams, the church that would inspire us to be our best selves, the results fell primarily

into two areas: outreach (local: direct and visible) and in-reach (within both the parish and ourselves as

individuals: building and deepening relationships, fostering spiritual growth). Interestingly, these two work

together well, feeding and building upon each other. One participant captured this synergism beautifully,

saying, “My dream is a church that radiates so much warmth and genuine love that people are attracted to it.

A church that makes a substantial difference to the wider community by its example and its spirit in general,

and by its support of specific targets, agencies, and needs….” Another prevalent theme that arose under

Visioning was worship. Our dreams for worship were varied. Some examples: make it more formal; make it

less formal; incorporate creative approaches; add morning and evening prayer; add a kids’ service; move

outdoors.

A complete summary of the results has been posted in the common room, and forwarded to the vestry,

which will be working on goal-setting and mission in the coming year.

Ronny Johnson, for the Dream-catching Committee: Mary Lindquist, Robin White, Bill Ames, Nancy Barber, Laurie

Chiperfield, Sue Dyer, Christie Fritz, Susanna Grannis

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Reports from Administration & Finance

VESTRY From January, 2013 until the present, the Vestry has continued to monitor the Building for the Future

process including final work on the church building and expenditure of final funds. To say the building is

glorious would be an understatement! The budget for this undertaking is complicated, yet with very minor

outstanding items, all is within planned targets. The improvements are especially grand because we have

remained true to our goal of making St. Michael’s barrier-free.

The Vestry has been continuously amazed at the generosity of parishioners’ in making initial pledges for the

renovations and improvements to St. Michael’s. Can you remember right from the start of the building

process, how the Angel at the front of the Sanctuary tracked our giving progress? It was, dare I say,

miraculous.

The workings of the Vestry itself have been guided by weekly study of the book The Vestry Resource

Guide, developed by the Episcopal Church Foundation. Each monthly meeting was begun with prayer led

by Mary, followed by discussion of a section of the Guide led by one of the Vestry members. The Vestry

also adopted a Vestry Covenant to assist our working together under guidance from Holy Scripture.

At each Vestry meeting, we received updates on the 2013 Budget from the Treasurer (initially Doug Switzer,

followed by Wayne Cook). There were almost always questions from Vestry members, and both Treasurers

did outstanding jobs making these detailed financials accessible and clear.

Mary gave a monthly Rector’s Report at each Vestry meeting, and these updates were extremely helpful in

keeping up with both the business of the Parish as well as our spiritual ‘health.’

In order to highlight the major tasks and accomplishments of the 2013 Vestry, the following bullet points

give an overview of our work:

o Conducting a formal orientation for new Vestry members

o Review of Robert’s Rules of Order & By-Laws

o Development of Vestry Job Descriptions

o Monthly review of financial statements and endowments

o Establishment of a parish ‘Planned Giving’ program

o Arranging and conducting a ‘Safe Church’ program

o Hiring a new bookkeeper: Darlene Rutnik

o Ongoing discussion of possible return of kneeling rails and use of historic and beautiful

kneeling cushions

o Conducting a Vestry retreat at Holy Cross Monastery in West Park, NY

o Regular review of the business of all parish committees

o Tag Sale proceeds now to go 50% to the mission and ministry of the church and 50% to local outreach

o Approval of St. Michael’s first “Pride Sunday”

o Initiation of “Open Forums” by the Vestry

o Formation of Discernment Committee for Paul Moberly

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o Planning and conducting “Opening New Doors for the Glory of God” on September 28th and 29th with Bishop Ely, including dedication of new chapel to Mary Magdalen, the First Apostle

o Development of “Rental Policy and Procedures” for use of parish building by outside groups

o Monitoring various funds for Capital Improvement

o Acceptance of Lynn Lewandowski’s resignation from the Vestry and appointment of parish

Treasurer Wayne Cook to fill remaining term

o Acceptance of new Art/Science/Spirit Outreach initiative by Susan and Paul Dedell:

“Winged Productions” (more on this upcoming)

o Completion of Audit Report for 2013

o Discussion of assigning a Vestry member to sit-in on all major Parish committees

o Hosting Gene Robinson’s visit and film/program at the Latchis Theater

o Participation in Diocesan Convention November 8th and 9th in Burlington

o Presentation of final Building Project Report by Judith McBean

o Development and implementation of new parish “Payment Request Voucher”

o Approval letter for Mark Genszler’s advancement in his Discernment Process

o Development of slate of new Vestry members for 2014

These are just some highlights from the 2013 Vestry’s work. We are deeply indebted to all the members of

St. Michael’s and we thank everyone for their contributions to the vibrant life of our Parish.

Rev. Mary Lindquist, Rector

David G. Mattocks, Senior Warden

Corky Elwell, Junior Warden

Wayne Cook, Treasurer

Veronica Johnson, Clerk

Janet Cramer

Jenny Karstad

Judith Hildreth

Karen Guthrie

Linda Rice

CAPITAL CAMPAIGN COMMITTEE We established a Capital Campaign goal of $800,000 in June of 2011. We are pleased to report that pledges

and gifts to the Capital Campaign have continued to come in throughout 2013 which total $827,010

representing 103.3% of our goal! As of 12/31/13 we have received pledge payments totaling $545,315. The

Capital Campaign committee extends our thanks to all parish members who pledged to make our campaign

so successful. Gayle Potter, Michael Wilmott : Co-Chairs, Capital Campaign Committee

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ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE

The St. Michael’s Endowment Fund and those funds contained within the General Investment Fund not

subject to withdrawals increased by approximately 9 % in total value during 2013. That gain includes

withdrawals of $50,000 from the General Investment Fund in 2013 to support the Building for the Future

budget, and $53,600 withdrawn from Restricted Endowment (6%) to support the operating budget. The

funds withdrawn to support the operating budget in 2014 will be 5%, and no additional funds will be taken

from the General Investment Fund to support the Building for the Future project.

As of December 31, the funds balance for the previous 3 years is summarized below.

2011 2012 2013

Restricted Endowment $ 1,258,388 1,285,217 1,413,667

General Investment Account $ 239,849 105,199 42,276

Total $1,498,237 1,390,416 1,455,943

Respectfully Submitted, Bill Ames, Chair, for the Endowment Committee - members Mary Lindquist, Rector; David

Mattocks, Senior Warden; Wayne Cook, Treasurer; Doug Switzer and Betsy Swift.

MEMORIAL GARDEN The St. Michael's Memorial Garden came into being in 2000 after a series of meetings that had started and

stopped over a period of 5 years, a process begun when a former parishioner willed some funds to start the

process of establishing a Memorial Garden. The garden is a natural, sacred place for the scattering of

cremains of parishioners and their immediate family. It can be accessed from the church parking lot or

Harris Ave. In addition to being a place of rest for those who have gone before us, it offers a place of

comfort for those who may come to meditate, pray or, simply cherish a few moments of peaceful rest.

The Garden is maintained by a committee of Parishioners (not more than 5 by the original "charter"). Over

the past couple years due to aging and health issues, we have lost the core members of this Committee

though several are still available as advisors. In the Spring, there will need to be a few days of muscle put

into the Garden so that it remains the place it was commissioned to be for those of us who might choose to

rest there in the future. There is a separate fund for the Memorial Garden to support some of the work

necessary to maintain this sacred space. Once again, anyone interested in joining this committee should

speak to Mary Lindquist or myself, Linda Rice.

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NOMINATING COMMITTEE This year's Vestry candidates for election for three 3-year terms are: Richard Cogliano, Sarah Benton and

Ronny Johnson. Wayne Cook is running to fill the 1-year term. The candidates who are up to be elected as

delegates for the Diocesan Convention are Joanne Patalano and Annamarie Pluhar. The Senior Warden

Janet Cramer also attends as a delegate. The alternates to be elected for Diocesan Convention are Paul

Moberly and David Mattocks.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE CONSTRUCTION TEAM

Project Summary (January 15, 2014):

I am pleased to submit this final report from the BFF Construction Team. Our project began almost a

decade ago with a former rector and a dream catching process. It progressed despite an economic

downturn and an interim period and the calling of a new rector. We were determined not only to renew our

building, but also to develop spaces that would be flexible and equip us for mission, even the one to which

God has yet to call us. The 2 focal points of the project were: 1) to make our building accessible to all and

2) to fix and refurbish an aging infrastructure, while preserving and enhancing the beauty of our church.

Building for the Future

The Building for the Future Committee met from May 2011 until April 2012. The committee consisted of

Judith McBean, Chair, Carolyn Taylor-Olsen (Chair of Master Plan Committee), Corwin Elwell (Junior

Warden), Matt Wojcik (Vestry), Alan McBean (Chair, Property committee), Dan Drish and Vince Johnson

(member at large) During that time we created a construction plan, an estimated budget and interviewed

and selected the construction company. We then recommended the final plan, budget and the Ingram

Construction Company to the Vestry. The committee met monthly, working diligently with our architect,

guided by the master plan and the feasibility study to prioritize needs and review design options for each

stage of the Master Plan. Subcommittees were formed when needed to gain additional input for specific

spaces such as the sanctuary and the kitchen. Mechanical, structural and civil engineers were engaged to

complete the plans.

To scale the project’s scope to meet our budget meant eliminating some aspects of the Master Plan and

making significant cuts to the initial construction plan. The most obvious project to delay was paving the

parking lot. We could improve drainage, but by deferring the paving we were able to save approximately.

$70,000. The other major change was to the kitchen. This was much more difficult because it had been our

hope to increase capacity and function. We managed savings where possible (leaving the dishwasher and

center island untouched) but ultimately because of code issues we needed to complete the kitchen as a

“catering” kitchen. The addition of proper ventilation would have cost over $30,000 alone. We looked for

savings in design and materials wherever possible and by placing the elevator in a new location appreciated

considerable savings in demolition as well as electrical and construction costs. Dreams for further energy

upgrades (solar panels) and insulation in the sanctuary ceiling ($75,000) and window upgrades were

eliminated. Cosmetic changes in the Bradley wing (library, Dunham room, offices) and final finishes of the

chapel were deferred from the original construction plan. Once this process was completed, we were ready

to move forward with the construction phase, the committee was retired and a smaller Construction team

was formed.

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BFF: Construction Team

The Construction Team consisted of only 4 members (Judith McBean, Corwin Elwell, Ron Lenker, Alan

McBean) to streamline communication and decision making during construction. Throughout the project

the Building Team met biweekly with the job superintendent and project manager. We climbed roofs, chose

bricks and mortar, picked flooring and paint colors. We opened walls to investigate plumbing, submitted

permits, problem-solved, protected the interest of St. Michael’s and approved change orders. At every step

we received professional and insightful guidance by Robert Taylor.

With any building project, especially one involving a 150-year old building, you can expect surprises and

anticipate changes in the scope of work, resulting in change orders. Overall everything that was planned

was completed, but it seemed that there were modifications to almost every aspect of the project, some big

and some small. The project had been expected to be completed in about 6 months but actually took 11

months. The delays can be attributed to a late start, change orders and challenges with Baystate Elevator

that significantly delayed the completion of the Bradley street entrance. Extra costs were associated with the

change orders which fell into 3 general categories; 1.) Found conditions (ex. structural issues, fire and safety

issues), 2) changes in plans (ex. undercroft flooring) and 3) add-ons (ex. Chapel, Dunham room). Some of

these costs were covered by additional donations that were outside of the original Capital Campaign Budget.

I will summarize these issues and additions that resulted in change orders within the 5 general categories

that describe the scope of the project.

Change Proposals for found conditions

1. Site Upgrades: (approx. $6135, includes credit) Changes to drainage plans and the septic system account for the majority of these issues. The most significant cost occurred when Brattleboro prevented us from excavating Putney Road to hook into town sewer and we were required to do horizontal drilling through the bank.

2. Fire and Safety Issues: (approx. $20,988) Unanticipated fire/safety upgrades occurred in several areas including the boiler room, where demolition uncovered substandard ceilings and air exchange. There were changes in the elevator as the original design was for an electric lift. Safety Inspectors required an extra fire door and hand railing in the Bradley wing and our emergency lights did not pass inspection.

3. Sanctuary Changes: (approx. $5232/Credit $8068) Overall there was a savings in this area because we received credit for work not performed in the choir area and changing the Narthex doors to swing out. The changes to the walls were more expensive secondary to the finding of lead paint and the ceiling fans were upgraded as the first set failed within 1 month.

4. Bradley Wing Upgrades; (approx. $2662) This area had relatively minor changes with some ventilation and ceiling repair in the kitchen, subflooring in the Meeting Room, plumbing fix for the sacristy sink, extra painting (common room ceiling and stairway to undercroft), and urethane of the office floors. We had substantial saving in the area secondary to work completed by parishioners: kitchen cabinets (est. $10,000), painting (offices, library, vestibule, Bradley hall and stairway/ est. $5000-6000) and Holbrook subfloor (est. $1000).

5. Accessibility Improvements: (approx. $15,796) Multiple changes in the bathrooms were made involving both credits and costs. There was the addition of a water fountain (required) and replacing the lower Bradley Wing door.

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Change Proposals for Add-ons:

1. Chapel: (approx. $82,000) Of all of the add-ons this was clearly the most significant. This space was initially budgeted to include only walls, flooring, windows, heating and lighting. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to complete this space so beautifully. The additional time was estimated at 6 weeks.

2. Automatic Door Openers (approx. $8000 outside of construction budget)

3. Organ Loft Repairs (approx. $1821) This was recommended as the pipes were already relocated for repair and construction. With improved insulation and ventilation we have decreased the dust and temperature (and yes, bat) issues that will affect the function and longevity of the organ.

4. Dunham Room Upgrade/Library Refurbishments (approx. $16,000) The Dunham Room work added several additional weeks. Both the Library and Dunham Room work were initially planned to be done at a later date outside of the scope of the BFF project. But additional gifts allowed us to complete this work now.

5. Tile Flooring Undercroft and Bradley wing hall ($12,224) The construction plans were not clear on the flooring for the undercroft, so it was not included in the original bid. Due to asbestos issues we felt that it had to be completed now. The Bradley hall flooring was added in because it looked much too awful to delay.

Additional Costs: The final Budget summary reflects the total cost of the project and includes the following

additional expenses:

1. Capital Campaign costs: consulting fees, printing costs, mailing etc. Significantly less than the original budgeted number of approximated $25,000.

2. Unbudgeted Costs: Include River Garden rental ($5000), Guilford Church expenses, Moving and

storage, Engineering fees and soil testing

3. Architectural fees are listed separately but were split between the Master Plan and construction budgets.

4. Furnishings: purchased outside of the construction costs and capital campaign and fully funded by the generous donations from family and friends of St. Michaels Parish.

Final Notes:

The Grounds work has not been started as it was decided that it was best to delay until this spring to allow

the site work to settle and construction fatigue to fade. There is a plan in place and some donations have

already been received.

Overall it seems that the project was a huge success thanks to the diligent work of so many and the support

and prayers of all. As Team leader I must thank my amazing team; Corky Elwell, for his support to my

leadership and attention to contracts, local government and finances; Alan McBean who assisted in every

phase of the construction and at every level and who was on everyone’s speed dial; and Ron Lenker who

not only helped the team tremendously with his knowledge of architecture and building, but documented

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and communicated the project so beautifully. Robert Taylor provided insightful guidance and oversight to

the project and his cheerleading kept us focused and motivated even when our energies faded. After almost

3 years with St. Michael’s, he was part of the family and his work far exceeded what was expected by his

professional contract. Together all of their tireless efforts and dedication were absolutely a testament to

faith and critical to the success of the project.

There were so many people who supported this project that it is impossible to list them all. However, there

were those who went above and beyond with their donations of time and talent and I would like to

recognize them here: Michael Wilmot not only for his work with the Capital Campaign, but in assisting with

painting and refurbishing the library; Susan Wilmot, who helped with many things along the way including

furnishings, the kitchen and library; Zachery Roesemann and Clark Anderson who were critical to the

chapel work but who also assisted with furnishings, plans and in many other ways; Jane Reidel for her help

with finishes and furnishings; painters Vince Johnson and Dan Drish; and Ross Kinney, for his help in

building the kitchen and bookshelves. Special thanks to Mary for her leadership and courage as our new

Rector to shepherd us through this project. Throughout the project God’s grace, as always, was tangible and

abundant.

Respectfully submitted,

Judith McBean, Chair Building for the Future Committee, Retired

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS

This committee’s responsibilities are to provide expertise and/or manpower for the general upkeep of the

church, rectory and grounds of St. Michael’s. With the major construction project dominating work at the

church in the first half of 2013, our role was to support that effort in a host of ways. Members participated

in building cabinets in the kitchen, bookcases for the administrative offices (yes Jeanie yours are almost

done), and painting. The Rectory also received some new roofing to eliminate some persistent leaks. With

the exception of a few bugs and glitches, our newly renovated home is in wonderful shape.

Looking forward to the spring, the committee’s focus will be on completing our landscaping plan and

installing any additional touches to the exterior. I personally would like to see our failing lamp posts

repaired or replaced and possibly locate a bike rack on the property. If anyone has thoughts about these or

other ideas, please feel free to share them with a committee member.

Our committee stands at five; Gregg Allen, Ken Jacobs, Vince Johnson, Ross Kinney and Alan McBean

(Chair). We can always use some more able bodies and especially need gardeners for the spring. We

generally try to meet on the second Monday of the month at 5:30. Meetings are typically less than an hour

in duration.

We look forward to putting the finishing touches on our project this year!

Respectfully Submitted, Alan McBean, Chair