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UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

Church of The Master Florissant, MO.

Settled Pastor

Missouri Mid-South Conference, St. Louis Association

March 11, 2020

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE CONTENTS ➢ Position Posting ➢ Who Is God Calling Us To Become? ➢ Who Are We Now? ➢ Who Is Our Neighbor? ➢ References ➢ Consent and Validation

“God is able to provide you with every blessing, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times,

you may abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)

1. POSITION POSTING a. LISTING INFORMATION b. SCOPE OF WORK c. COMPENSATION & SUPPORT d. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?

1a. LISTING INFORMATION

Church name: Church of The Master Street address: 1325 Paddock Dr., Florissant, Mo. 63033 Supplemental web links: www.cotm-ucc.org Face book www.facebok.com/cotmucc Email [email protected]

Additional ecumenical affiliations (e.g. denominations, communions, fellowships):

Conference: Missouri Mid-South Conference Association: St. Louis Association UCC Conference or Association Staff Contact Person (Name, Title, Phone, Email): Name: Rev. Nicole Havelka Title: Interim Minister for Search and Call Discernment Phone: 314-301-9842 Email: [email protected]

Summary Ministry Description: We seek a pastor who will lead us through the next phase of our evolu6on as a church. Our congrega6on is made up of people who care for one another and look out for each other. Our Bible Study group sends weekly cards to our shut-ins and each Sunday there are cards available for the members of the congrega6on to sign. These cards go to members who may be experiencing a difficult situa6on and might need a bit of cheering up and those we want to keep in touch with because they are dear to our hearts. We have a wonderful music program here at Church of The Master. We have a reputa6on in the St. Louis area as a strong, stable congrega6on.

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE – 201

http://www.cotm-ucc.org

http://www.facebok.com/cotmucc

We are seeking a pastor adept at caring for our exis6ng membership as well as one who can nudge us to innovate and accept change. We seek an inspira6onal preacher who values worship, the sacraments and the United Church of Christ values. Our next leader must understand the transi6on we are facing, be willing to stay the course and shepherd us through our faith journey.

Photographs: Insert 1 – 3 images of your church, its people, its parsonage or building or gathering space, etc.


What we value about living in our area

We value our 63-year history as a United Church of Christ in the Florissant community as well as the “neighborhood “feel our church maintains in the Florissant community. Our community is relatively stable although the population is slowly becoming more diverse. We are fortunate to have a stable local government and safe neighborhoods.

Current size of membership: Active and Inactive 211

Languages used in ministry (other than English): None

Position Title: Pastor

Position Duration (choose one, delete the other options listed):

Settled – a called position intended for longer-term ministry in which the minister moves church membership to the congregation and moves standing to related association

Compensation Level: Full Time

Does the total support package meet conference compensation guidelines? Yes 1b. SCOPE OF WORK (add here the Scope of Work developed by your church using the Call Agreement Workbook) Full Time Pastoral Posi6on

• Responsible to administer all services, including but not limited to:

o Preparation and leadership of Sunday and holiday worship including scripture, Holy Sacraments (Baptism, Communion),Rites (Confirmation, Weddings, Funerals)

o Crafting of liturgy and bulletins, sermon preparation, guiding and sometimes finding lay liturgists and substitute replacements when not able to preside at a worship service

o Planning of music in coordination with music director and/or volunteers

o Preaching, offering of prayers, pastoral care for those in need

• Faith formation through prayer, Bible study, deepening spiritual connections and faith understandings of others


• Leadership development by working with people in the church to create effective ministry(ies) while supporting and upholding Church of The Master’s standards and policies

• Community engagement by providing leadership to the congregation so that the church may be seen as an ambassador of God’s love.

• Strategic planning for current and new directions in ministry

o Attend meetings and provide leadership as needed for church programs in collaboration with lay leadership

o Set a good example to the congregation and serve as a coach and mentor to staff and lay leadership

o Participate in wider church activities including conferences and association meetings and keep the congregation informed of meeting outcomes

o Available to wider community as representative of the church to local organizations and to other churches in the community for community efforts such as inter-faith programs and special worship services and provide information to the congregation about opportunities to engage in these efforts

o Administrative responsibilities include, supervision of staff, conducting regular staff meetings and parish-pastor meetings

o Identifying and assisting congregation with access to helpful resources and opportunities by counseling, listening and providing referrals when requested

o Maintain and update permanent records relating to services performed, changes in membership rolls in a timely manner

o Provide performance goals and reports to Pastor/Parish Relations committee to assist in assessment of pastor’s job performance

• Financial development and stewardship

o Assist lay leadership in the planning and implementation of stewardship efforts that generate necessary funding for the financial support of the church and its outreach programs

• Personal growth through study and prayer to increase faith.

• Take advantage of seminars and conferences to improve skills in leadership, teaching, and creating and delivering sermons


Core Competencies: Demonstrates strong leadership presence; envisions and conveys the “big picture”; identifies opportunities and challenges facing the church with a goal to implementing effective solutions in a changing environment

Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing to a variety of audiences by expressing facts, ideas and direction in accurate, clear, organized manner as well as being a good listener

Functions with insight, creativity and intelligence; uses good judgment in areas of responsibility using tact, diplomacy and discretion in caring for the needs of the congregation

Establishes and fosters good working relationships; encourages cooperation; seeks input from others to achieve goals; demonstrates openness to new ideas/learning new things, innovative

1c. COMPENSATION AND SUPPORT

Salary Basis The compensation package is negotiable and is consistent with Conference guidelines

Benefits (choose one): Salary plus Benefits

What is the expected living situa6on for your next minister? Living nearby with a housing allowance if needed or desired.

Comment on the residen6al/commu6ng expecta6ons for your next minister. We expect the pastor to live in the St. Louis region with reasonable commute.

State any incentives Describe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference:

Missouri Mid-South Conference Conference Minister Annual Persons in Ministry retreat Monthly Ministerium meeting (September through May) Events at Eden Theological Seminary

If applicable, describe how your church will adopt part-time adjustments in the pastoral schedule to support a minister’s bi-vocational employment:


1d. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?

Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the congregation to achieve.

We are looking for someone with the heart of a community organizer who can connect with people and groups in urban/suburban churches. We seek a minister with the ability to nurture, inspire and energize our existing congregation. Our next minister should be adept at pastoral care and be a great preacher who values worship and sacraments, and is able to help us determine opportunities to grow our membership.

Church of The Master could expand by more collaboration with the congregation of Green Pasture Christian Church who shares our building. Green Pasture is a young, African-American congregation with a growing membership. We have been working with some other local churches in Florissant on some shared services. We need to be accepting of change and new ideas, direction and purpose. We need the leadership of a strong and caring innovator.

Describe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in making an impact beyond its walls.

We are looking for a minister who will work with other churches in the community on community projects as well as inter-faith services. We believe in the concept that “God is Still Speaking—All are Welcome here” and we seek a minister who can help us make that happen here. We are looking for a minister who will present challenges and fresh ideas for mission in and interaction with our neighborhood. We are seeking a minister that is engaged with leadership and ministry to take advantage of opportunities beyond our walls. Specify language requirements or culturally-specific capacities preferred in a next ministerial leader, and why those matter to the congregation’s sense of calling.

English is the language requirement. We are an aging, Caucasian congregation and the members need to be able to hear and understand whoever is delivering a message whether it is the worship service and sermons or information shared with individual members or as part of a congregational meeting or church event.

Based on what you have learned about who your church is, who your church’s neighbor is, and who God is calling the church to become, describe four areas of excellence from The Marks of LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE – 201

Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the congregation’s ministry in these areas.

Nurturing United Church of Christ Identity by exhibiting a commitment to the core values of the United Church of Christ continuing testament, extravagant welcome and changing lives.

Building transformational leadership skills by working collaboratively with intercultural awareness and sensitivity.

Working together for justice and mercy by drawing on the ministry of Jesus Christ to confront injustice and oppression; understanding community context and navigating change with a community; engaging in mission and outreach.

Strengthening Inter-and Intra-personal assets by exhibiting strong moral character and personal integrity; respecting the dignity of all God’s people; understanding and ministering to stages of human development across the life span.


WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME? “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NRSV)

Who is God calling you to become as a congregation?

Church of The Master has been a stabilizing influence in our community for over 60 years and we believe God is calling us to maintain and expand our presence in a changing environment. We are blessed with a dedicated membership that supports one another each week through prayers, gifts of love, treasure and acts of kindness. We believe God is calling us to continue to support the needs of these core individuals as we look to the future.

Describe how God is calling you to reach out to address the emerging challenges and opportunities of your community and congregation.

The expanding diversity of our community provides many opportunities and challenges. The participation of our members in the local food pantry provides one of the many opportunities to serve. The changing racial makeup of our neighborhood challenges us to better understand each other. Although there are differences in our worship style, we are developing a close relationship with Green Pasture Christian Church, the African-American congregation sharing our facility. Our excellent youth programs and music programs help to bridge the gap across generations. We believe we are called to be a beacon of God’s love as we address the future. Our mission statement “Church of The Master is an active, enthusiastic and diverse fellowship dedication the mission and spiritual growth” continues to remind us of our ultimate purpose.


WHO ARE WE NOW? “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV) a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS b. 11-YEAR REPORT c. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS d. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING e. CHURCH FINANCES f. HISTORICAL INFORMATION

3a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS ________

Describe your congregation’s life of faith.

Our church’s life of faith is based on traditional protestant teachings. The United Church of Christ’s Statement of Faith is very important to our church both in the life of faith and as affirmation of our church’s responsibility to make this statement of faith its own. Even though our church is traditional, it is open to new ideas and a variety of worship styles.

Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation. • Open to new technology like Facebook

• Welcome visitors warmly and present them with a gift bag containing church information

• Maintain strong relationships with shut-ins

• Quality music and youth programs

• Bible study for adults

• Strong relationship with Green Pasture Christian Church which shares our building as well as with other local churches including Atonement Lutheran Church and Florissant Valley Disciples of Christ.

• Church of The Master continually donates generously to outreach programs such as Habitat for Humanity, Unleashing Potential, The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM)

• Many different groups meet in the church building during the week

• Fellowship time after the service is very important to our members


• Strong communication among members via our newsletter, The Voice

Describe what worship is like when your congregation gathers.

The worship service is traditional in style, prayer and music. However, Church of The Master is open to new ideas. It is not unusual to hear a variety of musical styles played on different instruments besides the organ. During the service there is laughter, clapping and an innovative time with the children as part of their lifetime learning process. Our music director periodically provides organ concerts after a service.

Announcements are made and, if needed, a quick congregational meeting maybe be scheduled after the service. Sunday school is also one of our regular Sunday activities.

Music and prayer are important. The United Church of Christ Statement of Faith is often included as a testament to our dedication to Protestant teachings.

Describe the educational program/faith formation vision of your church.

The youth are encouraged to participate during the worship service. They serve as acolytes every Sunday and occasionally as lay reader and/or usher. The youth also help with the non-service areas such as yard clean-up and other work day activities. The adults also have a strong educational program. They have weekly Bible study and mentor the youth in the confirmation class. Both the adults and the youth attend family camp in the summer. There are Lenten study programs for adults and an Advent study program is currently being formed. Although attendance is small, those who attend are dedicated and enriched. There is also a large church library with many books for adults and youth.

Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission.

The administration of the congregation is vested in the Leadership Ministry, which is comprised of the Moderator, Associate Moderator, Pastor(s), Controller, Financial Secretary and the Chair of each administrative ministry. The administrative ministries are: Praise and Worship, Spiritual Education, Finance and Outreach and Facilities. Each ministry has specific authority and responsibilities. The different ministries have a chair person who reports to the Leadership Ministry that includes the moderator and other elected officials. Most decisions are related to the elected ministry members while emergency decisions are handled by the pastor and the moderator. The Pastor administers the activities of the Church staff in consultation with the Moderator and the Leadership Ministry.


Communication between these ministries and the congregation is handled in a variety of ways. There is the monthly newsletter which contains information from the Pastor, the Moderator and the chairs of the respective leadership ministries. The newsletter may also contain information from staff as appropriate. Announcements are also made before each worship service and in the Sunday bulletin. For quick communication for emergencies, there is a call chain which contacts each church member either by phone or email.

• When it comes to decision-making, how many hours are spent in meetings per month? 3 to 4 hours weekly • Think of a time when action had to be taken quickly, for example when a crisis or

disaster occurred. How was that accomplished? Depending on how critical the situation is, action is taken by our moderator and pastor. Leadership is quick to notify the congregation using email, phone calls and local television if weather related.

• Can you provide the next minister with a copy of an organization structure, bylaws and/or annual report to further explain the patterns of the church’s activity and governance? Yes


3b. 11-YEAR REPORT


3c. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS ____

Describe those who participate in your church.

Percentage of total participants who have been in the church:

Number of total participants by age:

Percentage of adults in various household types:

Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)

Number of active members: 93

Number of active non-members: 9

Total of church participants (sum of the numbers above):

102


More than 10 years: 65%

Less than 10, more than 5 years: 15%

Less than 5 years: 20%

0-11 12-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+Are these numbers an

estimate? (check if yes)

4 8 3 2 3 9 12 31 45 x


Single adults under 35: 1% x

Households with minors: 3% x

Single adults age 35-65: 1% x

Joint households with no minors: 25% x

Single adults over 65: 64% x


Education level of adult participants by percentage:

Percentage of adults in various employment types:

Describe the range of occupations of working adults in the congregation: Health Care Technology Business Owners Engineers

Describe the mix of ethnic heritages in your congregation, and the overall racial make-up. Most UCC congregations tend to describe themselves as “diverse.” Yet, the vast majority of UCC congregations are mono-cultural. What does diversity mean in your context?

Mix- Caucasian with a strong German Heritage We celebrate Totenfest on Christ the King Sunday, a service of remembering.

Has your congregation recently had a conversation about welcoming diversity, or do you plan to hold one on the near future (perhaps using, for example, the Welcoming Diversity Inventory)? Please note the date. Comment after the exercise:


High school: 100% x

College: 60% x

Graduate School: 25% x

Specialty Training: 25% x

Other (please specify):


Adults who are employed: 10-20% x

Adults who are retired: 75% x

Adults who are not fully employed: 10% x


In April of 2019, Barb Biedenstein, an Open and Affirming volunteer spoke at a Leadership Meeting regarding the Open and Affirming process for the United Church of Christ Churches. This meeting was at the request of Leadership and the purpose was to explain the Open and Affirming process should Church of The Master pursue Open and Affirming Covenant. No action has taken place at this date.

3d. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING

Complete the following chart. Please leave blank any fields that are not applicable to your congregation.

Ways of Gathering Estimated number of people involved in attendance

Who plans each of the listed gatherings? (list any and all worship planners, such as various lay leaders, pastors, musicians, other staff)

Adult Groups or Classes 40

Bible Study is planned by Pastor. Young at Heart, L- circle, Pinochle Knitters are planned by member of congregation.

Baptisms (number last year) 0

Children’s Groups or Classes 1-3 Spiritual Education chair

Christmas Eve and Easter Worship Easter 124, Christmas 92

Pastor, Music Director and Praise and Worship Ministry

Church-wide Meals 60 Held 4 times a year. Lead by volunteers by the congregation.

Choirs and Music Groups 14 Music Director

Church-based Bible Study 8-10 Pastor Plans

Communion (served how often?)First Sunday of the Month

Praise and Worship Ministry

Community Meals 0

Confirmation (number confirmed last year)

4Pastor and Youth Coordinator with Mentors for each student.

Drama or Dance Program 0


Additional comments:

List all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or commissioned ministers. Indicate those with current United Church of Christ Three-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a congregation) or Four-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a ministry beyond a congregation).

Funerals (number last year) 7

Intergenerational Groups 0

Outdoor Worship 0

Prayer or Meditation Groups 0

Public Advocacy Work 0

Retreats 1 Youth Coordinator

Theology or Bible Programs in the Community

0

Weddings (number last year) 0

Worship (time slot: _9:30 a.m.______)

66

Worship (time slot: _______)

Young Adult Groups or Classes 12Adult Bible Education, Pastor and other volunteers

Youth Groups or Classes 5-7 Youth Coordinator

Other

Name Three- or Four-Way Covenant? (3 or 4 or No)

Ministry Setting Type of Ministry Role

Retired? (Y or N)

Rev. Lisa HartChurch of The Master

Interim Minister No


If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church, describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation: Rev. Dwight Snesrud Emeritus List all current staff, including ministers. Exclude the position you are seeking to fill. Indicate which staff person serves as head of staff.

The administration of the congregation is vested in the leadership ministry which is comprised of the Moderator, Associate Moderator, Pastor(s) Controller, the Financial Secretary and the chair of each administration ministry.

The administration ministries are: Spiritual Education Praise and Worship, Finance and Outreach Facilities

The Pastor oversees/the administration activities of the church staff in consultation with the Moderator and the Leadership Ministry.

REFLECTION

Rev. Dwight Snesrud

Church of The Master

Pastor Yes

Staff Position Head of Staff?Compensation (full time, part time, volunteer)

Supervised by

Length of Tenure for current person in this position

Church Secretary

Facilities chair Part time Facilities 5

Custodian Facilities chair Part time Facilities 15

Youth Coordinator

Spiritual Education chair

Part timeSpiritual Education

20

Music DirectorPraise and Worship chair

Part timePraise and Worship

8

Rev. Lisa Hart Interim

Pastor Parish Council and Moderator

Full time Moderator1 yr. 8 months


Reflection: After reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry?

Our congregation is focused on supporting its membership and providing age appropriate events and activities. We are also committed to supporting community needs and the United Church of Christ institutions.

3e. CHURCH FINANCES

Current annual income (dollars used during most recent fiscal year)

Current annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year): $

Source Amount

Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving $177,454

Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such as a cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return)

$0

Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending policy, “drawing down the principal”)

$0

Fundraising Events $799

Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose $0

Grants $0

Rentals of Church Building $13,685

Rentals of Church Parsonage $0

Support from Related Organizations (e.g. Women’s Group)

$0

Transfers from Special Accounts $0

Other (specify): $14,337

Other (specify): $0

TOTAL $206,275


Church of The Master Financial Secretary’s Annual Report 2018

GENERAL FUND

Envelopes Income $ 175,869.45

Loose Contribu6ons $ 1,584.54

Tributes & Billboard $ $799.00

Building Usage $ 13,685.00

Tower, Scrip Profit & Interest $ 14,336.59

General Fund Income $ 206,274.58

2018 General Fund Budget $ 225,649.00

over(short) $ -19,374.42 -8.59%

OTHER INCOME

Miscellaneous $ 8,903.59

Memorials $ 5,025.00

Larger Kingdom $ 8656.73

Building Fund $ 11,550.26

Endowment Fund Interest &

Special Funds $ 2,036.30

Total Other Income $ 36,171.88

TOTAL 2018 INCOME $ 242,446.46

Grocery Script Sales $ 48,700.00

TOTAL CHURCH DEPOSITS $ 291,146.46


Considering total budgeted expenses for the year, compare total ministerial support. What is the percentage? 44% of local church (2018) 42% of church total budget

Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church? No

Is your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church year? (indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year)

_x_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support) x_ One Great Hour of Sharing _x_ Strengthen the Church _x_ Neighbors in Need _x_ Christmas Fund

In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? If calculated as a percentage of operating budget, what is that percentage? (recommended 10%) Budgeted and Special Offering

What is the church’s current indebtedness? 0

Total amount of loan debt: Reason for debt: Are capital and other payments current? Yes

If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including the projected start/end date of the building project and the total project budget.

If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe:

Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact

2016 to 2020

Purchase new HVAC $19,000 $19,000 Funded by unsecured Bonds, donations, existing funds and Goal was achieved.

$ $


If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe:

Describe the prominent mission component(s) involved in the most recent (or current) capital campaign.

Sanctuary Air Conditioner Report With the winter weather here, you may not have noticed that our Sanctuary’s air conditioners are now brand new. In fact, all four of the furnace/air conditioning units that service that Sanctuary have been replaced. This was all made possible by your generous support.

Many people stepped up and gave gifts directly to fund the new air conditioners. These gifts totaled $4,900.00. Their generosity is overwhelming and greatly appreciated.

Adding to these funds were monies from the existing Building Fund and Memorial funds.

Finally, the bulk of the funding came from promissory notes purchased by church members, $11,000 was raised from eleven $1000.00 notes funded by nine members. These notes are planned to be retired over the next 4 years using General Fund contributions.

It is easy when we are comfortable to forget the efforts required to insure that comfort. But, the next time you are sitting comfortably in our beautiful Sanctuary, please remember the generosity of all those sitting in the pews who have contributed to that pleasant temperature.

Does your church have an endowment? Yes

What is the market value of the assets? $137,090 (Sept, 2019)

Are funds drawn as needed, regularly, or under certain circumstances?

No Funds are currently drawn.

What is the percentage rate of draw (last year, compared to 5 years ago)?

Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact

$ $

$ $


0% Describe draw on endowment, if any, to meet operating budget expenses for the most recent year and the past five years: None

At the current rate of draw, how long might the endowment last? N/A

Please comment on the above calculations or estimates: Currently 95% of fund income may be used annually for Outreach, Growth, Capital improvements, etc.

Other Assets

Reserves (savings): $65,138 (Sept 2019)

Investments (other than endowment): $ N/A Does your church have a parsonage? NO

Describe all buildings owned by the church: Description of the building

Church of The Master In 1957, a 3-acre farm was acquired by the new congregation. The original church building was built and was 5,400 square feet. To accommodate the rapidly growing congregation, two additions to the building were made. They are listed below with the year built and the square footage. Education Wing- 1962/1963 11,150 Square feet New Sanctuary – 1975, 6200, square feet The church building has 22,800 square feet. The building consists of 3 main entrances. They are easily accessible by wheel chair and have no stairs. Inside the building, there are three levels. Each level is easily accessible by short flight of stairs and an elevator. The church building has storage in the attic and the basement. In addition to the three main entrances, there are 6 other exits. A summary of the three parts of the church follows. Sanctuary The sanctuary can hold an estimated 235 people There is a bathroom and a storage area behind the Chancel There is a choir and organ area Narthex Area


This is a large open area that is perfect for special occasions such as overflow from Chapel Hall

There is storage area and two utility areas. Main Building

The main building consists of the office area (main office, Pastor’s study, youth coordinator office)

The main building has the following additional rooms Conference Room Lounge Kitchen 1 utility room 2 restrooms Education Building The education Building has two levels. The top level has 4 classrooms The lower level has choir room, nursery, youth room and classroom

Describe non-owned buildings or space used or rented by the church: None

Which spaces are accessible to wheelchairs? All areas of the church are accessible by wheelchairs.

Reflection: After reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry?

Our congregation’s mission and ministry has a long history of financially supporting UCC and community through its Larger Kingdom and Five for Five initiatives via general budget and special offerings. In 2017 we re-committed to providing a significant percentage of our income to Larger Kingdom giving; an increase of over 35%. We also support the community through The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM), Adopt-A-Family, Lydia’s House and other entities that provide aid to those in need.

Our sharing of our church facilities with Green Pasture Christian Church is a significant initiative. Although our income is enhanced by their payments to us, it is not a large part of our budget and their usage of Church of The Master’s facilities gives Green Pasture the ability to provide a spiritual home to our neighbors who are attracted to their worship services.


Members of the Leadership Ministry prepare an annual budget which is voted on by the congregation in an Annual Budget meeting held each year.

3f. HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Name one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past 10 years.

The year 1974 signaled the successful launching of a major fund drive designed to complete a long held dream—the construction of a new sanctuary. Our first service was held there on December 14, 1975. The unique feature of the pyramid-shaped sanctuary is the stained glass windows consisting of 28 panels. Many panels contain phrases from the United Church of Christ Statement of Faith. Christian symbols accompany each phrase to help illuminate the text of the statements.

In October 2006 Church of The Master celebrated fifty years of God’s Blessings. In October 2019 we celebrated 63 years of service to the Florissant community. In January of 2011, Green Pasture Christian Church contracted with Church of The Master to hold their worship services in our building.

Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past.

In 2010 we updated our By-Laws and Constitution changing our organizational structure from Boards to Ministries.

We contracted to have a cell tower on our property. This is a revenue-generating source of income for the church.

Every church has conflict, some minor, some larger. “Where two or three are gathered, there will be disagreement….” Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to conflict.

Church of The Master operates on an open and transparent communication style/format with the congregation through congregational meetings, announcements, bulletins and monthly newsletters. We manage conflict effectively by listening respectfully to all positions in our decision-making process. We appreciate different styles and perspectives and understand that we don’t all have to agree to make sound decisions for the good of the church and its members.


Church of The Master has been fortunate to have experienced little conflict within the congregation. One of the key contributing factors is a Policy and Procedures Manual that deals with questions on facility usage, fees for services and event schedules. Job Descriptions and Contracts clarify responsibilities.

Ministerial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)

Comment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:

Church of The Master is strong in its faith and hopeful for its future relying on our pastors and each other through the years. Church of The Master has survived difficult times and difficult choices. We appreciate the different styles of pastoral leadership over the years as we have moved from a congregation of families with children and young people to one whose membership is smaller and older in an established and stable neighborhood. The breadth and depth of our spiritual leaders commitment to Church of The Master and our love and support to them for the spiritual guidance they have provided over the years has been a sustaining force throughout our church history.

Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/N)

Rev C David Langerhans 1956-1968 12 yes

Rev Jon Schultz 1968-1970 2 Yes Interim

Rev Robert Niehaus 1970-1986 16 yes

Rev Dr Robert Fauth 1986-1987 1 Yes Interim

Rev Dwight Snesrud 1987-1995 8 yes

Rev Donald Burkhalter 1995-1996 1 Yes Interim

Rev Dennis Lindberg 1996-2005 9 yes

Rev Hale Schroer 2005-2007 2 Yes Interim

Rev Mike Krewson 2007-2018 11 yes

Rev Lisa Hart 2018 – present Present Yes Interim


Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination? No

Has your church been involved in a Situational Support Consultation? Ask us

Has a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church? Ask us


4. WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR? “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV) a. COMMUNITY VISION b. MISSION InSite

4a. COMMUNITY VISION

How do the relationships and activities of your congregation extend outward in service and advocacy? Community involvement includes both UCC sponsored activities and member participation in community programs. These include The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM), Meal of the Month, baby items and used clothing containers at church, and Lydia’s House personal item donations. Some of our members are part of Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity. Unleashing Potential (UP) Programs and Services,former St John’s Community Service Ministry and Isaiah 58.

Describe your congregation’s participation in meetings, relationships and activities connecting the wider United Church of Christ (association / conference / national setting).

Many in our congregation read the weekly Missouri Mid-South eCourier. We are part of the St Louis Association and members attend these meetings. We are also part of the Missouri Mid-South Conference, 5 for 5 offerings, United Church of Christ Mo-Val and Shannondale camps, Women in Ministry, North County Churches United for Racial Harmony and Justice, Habitat for Humanity and The Emergency Assistance Ministry (TEAM).

Many local churches love to tell the story of what they are doing in the community to transform lives. Some have identified certain aspects of their witness into the wider community using language shared with other UCC congregations. (Find more information as desired at ucc.org.) Check any statements below that apply to your UCC faith community.


__ Accessible to All (A2A) __ Creation Justice __ Economic Justice __ Faithful and Welcoming X_ God Is Still Speaking (GISS) __ Border and Immigrant Justice __ Inter-cultural/Multi-racial (I’M)

__ Just Peace __ Global Mission Church __ Open and Affirming (ONA)

__ WISE Congregation for Mental Health __ Other UCC designations: __ Designations from other denominations __ None

Reflect on what the above statement(s) mean(s) to your community. Is your congregation interested in working toward any of the above statements of witness in the near future?

One of the requirements for our new minister is that they work with the congregation on how we might get involved in some of the above areas. In talking with the members of the congregation, we heard that they would like to “see the church building come alive with new disciples, people of purpose ministering to our immediate community while remaining connected to a revitalized United Church of Christ working for justice and peace.”

Describe your congregation’s participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities (with other denominations and religious groups, local and regional).

In the past we have had a Master’s Kids program and Vacation Bible School. Unleashing Potential reached out to Church of The Master regarding a 2020 Summer Camp. We participated in a Community Thanksgiving Service in November of 2019. We are sharing a program for three Wednesdays during Advent with Atonement Lutheran Church and Florissant Valley Christian Church.

If your congregation has a mission statement, how does that mission statement compare to the actual time spent engaging in different activities? Think of the range of activities from time spent gathering, to governance, to time spent going out.

Church of The Master is an active, enthusiastic and diverse fellowship dedicated to mission and spiritual growth. We believe in open communion.


Reflect on the scope of work assigned to your pastor(s). How is their community ministry and their ministry in and on behalf of the wider church accounted for in the congregation’s expectations on their time?

We expect the pastor’s workload to include setting a good example to the congregation; to conduct all services on Sundays, holidays and other such days as the congregation may desire; to direct the work of religious education; to administer the Holy Sacraments; to visit the sick; to comfort the distressed and to perform all such duties as belong to the Pastor’s office in the United Church of Christ.

The Pastor shall secure appropriate substitutes to lead church worship in cases of planned absences. The Pastor will provide the Moderator with a list of candidate substitutes in case of emergency absences.

The Pastor shall direct the activities of the Church staff in consultation with the Moderator and the Leadership Ministry.

The Pastor shall maintain a permanent record of all services performed and make an annual report to the congregation. The Pastor shall be responsible for essential church records (e.g. baptisms, confirmations, etc.). (this is from the Constitution and By-Laws—page 9 Article V)

4b. MISSION InSite

Comment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or area. What trends and opportunities are shown?

InSite data and projec6ons reflect a rela6vely stable community for the next ten years with a slight downward popula6on trend. Current data reflects a racial makeup approximately 63 percent White and 30 percent African American with no dominant ethnic or racial group for the remainder of the popula6on. Projec6ons reflect a moderate decline in white popula6on in the next several years. Projec6ons for the Non-Whites are effec6vely constant with a slight increase in the Black/African American sector.

The quality of our neighborhood educational systems is an important aspect of any community. Much of the local church community is in the Hazelwood School District. In 2019, Dr. Nettie Collins-Hart was the recipient of the Superintendent of The Year Award


from the National Association of School Superintendents for the Hazelwood School District.

How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects?

The Church of The Master membership is predominately white and older than the surrounding neighborhood. Projections for the community reflect an increase in the over 65 age group with stability for the younger groups. Current data shows average age for the local community is 39 with a slight increase projected for the next ten years.

How are the demographics of the community currently shaping ministry, or not?

Past and current ministries are tailored to the demographics of our congregation with specific programs tailored to specific age groups. Joint services with local area churches (Thanksgiving, Advent season) provide a more diverse worship experience.

What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known for?

Church of The Master is known as a good neighbor by keeping a well maintained and ajrac6ve facility. Our building is used by outside groups (Girl Scouts, Pathways ,Tops and Square dancers) and supports local events by making our parking lot available for Valley of Flowers fes6val and parade. Church of The Master accommodates the Fourth of July ac6vi6es with availability for parade and fire work viewing.

What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved?

New members comment on the welcoming and friendly atmosphere when asked why they joined Church of The Master. They felt comfortable when entering the facility. Our social hour after each service has allowed visitors to become acquainted on a personal and friendly informal basis.


5. REFERENCES

Name up to three people who have agreed to serve as phone and written references. Advise the three references: “The contact information you provide may be shared publicly. Please use contact information that you feel comfortable giving to candidates so they can reach you with their questions.”

Make sure they are not members of your church but are persons who know your church well enough to be helpful to candidates seeking more information. Request a letter from each reference in answer to the four prompts below. Attach the letters (up to three) as desired.

REFERENCE 1 Rev Donna Smith Pupillo Administrtion of Deaconess Nurse Ministry. 314-324-3061 [email protected] confirmed at Church of The Master and conducted Worship services at Church of The Master

REFERENCE 2 Rev. Hale Schroer Retired St. Louis, MO. 314-962-7517 [email protected] Rev Hale served as intermim pastor at Church of The Master

REFERENCE 3 Deacon Jason Beverly 314-922-2341 Deacon at Green Pasture Christian Church


mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

6. CLOSING THOUGHTS a. CLOSING PRAYER b. STATEMENT OF CONSENT c. CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATION

6a. CLOSING PRAYER ______ Continue: a poem

By Maya Angelou

My wish for you Is that you continue

Continue To be who and how you are To astonish a mean world With your acts of kindness

Continue To allow humor to lighten the burden Of your tender heart

Continue In a society dark with cruelty To let the people hear the grandeur Of God in the peals of your laughter

Continue To let your eloquence Elevate the people to heights They had only imagined

Continue To remind the people that Each is as good as the other And that no one is beneath Nor above you

Continue To remember your own young years And look with favor upon the lost


And the least and the lonely

Continue To put the mantle of your protection Around the bodies of The young and defenseless

Continue To take the hand of the despised And diseased and walk proudly with them In the high street Some might see you and Be encouraged to do likewise

Continue To plant a public kiss of concern On the cheek of the sick And the aged and infirm And count that as a Natural action to be expected

Continue To let gratitude be the pillow Upon which you kneel to Say your nightly prayer And let faith be the bridge You build to overcome evil And welcome good

Continue To ignore no vision Which comes to enlarge your range And increase your spirit

Continue To dare to love deeply And risk everything For the good thin

Continue To float Happily in the seas of infinite substance Which set aside riches for you Before you had a name


Continue And by doing so You and your work Will be able to continue Eternally


6c. VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION _____

The congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named. Staff Comment: Yes

To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete. Staff Comment: Yes

To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented thoroughly. Staff Comment: Yes

My signature below attests to the above three items.

Name / Title: Nicole Havelka, Interim Minister for Search and Call Discernment Email: [email protected] Phone: 614-517-9096 Date: March 11, 2020

This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and is only possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of Christ.

“Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22


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