Table of Contents:Minutes of the 2019 Annual Report……………………………………………………………………………….2Council Members and Trustees Contact Information……………………………………..………………7Reverend Melanie’s Letter……………………………………………………………………………………………..8Church Statistics…………………………………………………………………..………………………………………..9Church Council Report……………………………………………………………………………………………….…..9Board of Trustees Report…………………………………………………………………………………….………..10Futures Committee Report………………………………………………………………………………………..….10Sarnia United Churches Partnership Task Group Report……………………….…………………….…12The Hub Report…………………………………………..………………………………………….………….…….……13Prayer Group Report…………………………………………………………………………………….….……………14Worship Committee Report………………………………………………………………………………..…………15Christian Development Report……………………………………………………….…………………..………...15Church in Society Report……………………………………………………………………………………..…………17Guatemalan Update ……..……..………………………………………………………………..……..………………18Ministry and Personnel Report………………………………………………………………………………..….…19Property Report………………………………………………………………………..……….……………………….…20Fellowship, Membership and Pastoral Care Report………..…………..………………………………...21Music of Ministry Report…………………………………...………………………………..……………..…………22Tai Chi Report…………………………………………………..………………………………………………………..….23Men’s Breakfast Report……………………………..………………..……………………………….….…………...23Low Impact Exercise Report……………………..……………………..………………………….………….…..…23Overview of St. Luke’s Outreach Groups…………..……………….………………………………………....24United Church Women’s Report…….……..…………………………………………………………...........…24 United Church Women’s Financial Statement…..…………………………………………………….…….27Stewardship and Finance Report……………..………………………………………………...…………….…..28St. Luke’s 2019 Financial Statement……………………………………………………………………………….29St. Luke’s 2020 Budget……………………………………………………..………………………………………..….31

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St. Luke's United ChurchWorship with Annual General Meeting

Presiding: Rev. Melanie Kirk-HallMusic Director: Lora Stevens

February 10, 2019

Entering with Celebration(Melanie Leading)WelcomeOur Life Together- Announcements, Birthdays and Anniversaries

Acknowledging the Traditional TerritoryGreeting Hymn: More Voices 1 Let Us Build a House

Call to Worship

(Sue Lambier leading)

Words of Institution of Worship and Work

Hymn: Voices United 400 Lord Listen to Your Children Praying x 2

Prayer of Approach

The Lord's Prayer Motion regarding temporal mattersMover/Seconder: That all adherents along with the members of St. Luke's United Church be given the ability to speak to the meeting and vote on temporal matters.

- Darilyn McKeegan / George Vincent. Carried

Motion regarding AgendaMover/Seconder: That the order of worship to be the agenda for this meeting.

- Linda Cates / Maxine McDonald. Carried

Motion regarding adjournmentMover/Seconder: That the congregational meeting be adjourned immediately following the Benediction/Blessing with no further motion necessary.

- Lily Ramsey / Linda Hewitt. Carried

Motion regarding minutes of Congregational MeetingMover/Seconder: That the minutes of the March 4, 2018 congregational meeting of St. Luke's United Church be approved as circulated.

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- Jim Louks / Al Graham. Carried

Hymn: Voices United 625 I feel the winds of God today

Financial Words from the Treasurer *Here is where Janice presents the breakdown of Budget 2019, with time for discussion as needed, this is also where committee chairs can speak to their budget as needed.*

- Request for questions – no questions

- Explanation of Budget

o Designated funds

unspent memorial funds from 2012 to 2018 = $9,910.00

This money is included in the $19,383.09

Breakfast club, Yule Glow, Tai Chi, HUB, and the remaining from Mandaumin Distribution and High Park Distribution is also included in this amount.

Q: How much do we receive from group usage?

Roughly $3-4,000.00

o M&P –

Salaries = cost of living allowance has been raised 1.6%

ADP = payroll company. Mandated to use.

Computer upgrade = none expected for this year but line remains

o M&PC –

Pres. Assessment = based on revenue, deduct HST rebate, 4.5% on net revenue. Payment is done monthly starting in March, and able to be done electronically. The $5018.00 is a reduced rate to ease into the actual amount which is over $7000.00. This rate will stay the same for then next 3 years. This money goes to the National Office.

o CD –

Go project is still a go.

Curriculum has changed with the intention of developing our own program.

o Property –

Lawn sign has not been completed. Has been carried over.

Furnace is added as a new item. Does not need to be repaired immediately, but any future parts will not be available. A replacement will be needed sometime in the nearer future. We were advised to go with 3 small ones rather than one big one.

Step repair will fall under maintenance. Will be obtaining quotes in the spring for repair and replacement. Will consider both options.

o C in S –

Decrease M&S commitment for the year. 3

o Worship –

as noted

o S&F –

Accounting software program was not purchased. This is carried over.

Council expenses were for purchase of cake for Ian’s leaving.

Bank charges have been increased because of bank’s increase.

o Main increase is in property –

for furnace, to anticipate the costs which may be an immediate expense should the furnace fail (but the furnace is working okay for the time being). We have also obtained quotes for installing an A/C unit.

o Salaries

There has been an increase to the salaries.

Motions regarding approval of 2018 Financial Statement and 2019 BudgetMotion /Seconder: To approve the 2018 financial statement as presented.

- Janice McDonald / Darilyn McKeegan. Carried

Motion /Seconder: To approve the proposed budget for 2019 as presented.

- Larry McLaren / Darilyn McKeegan. Carried

Motion regarding approval of AuditorMotion/Seconder: To approve that BDO Limited be the auditor for the 2018 books.

BDO has taken over from Hazlitt-Steeves Harris Dunn. Until so far, there has been no charge as they commit to doing charitable work and donate this work to us.

- Janice McDonald / Lily Ramsey. Carried

(Melanie leading)

Invitation to OfferingDoxology- Voices United 540 Grant Us, God, the Grace

Prayer of Dedication

(Sue leading)

Celebration and Election of:

Council Members (with motion for Council to fill vacancies):

- Past-Chair role will now be filled by Sue Pavey

- Role of Vice-Chair-

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o as no one has volunteered, the suggestion to rotate the role of char between the committee.

- We thank Larry McLaren and Darilyn McKeegan for their years of service as they step down for their roles as Past-Chair and Member-at-Large

Antler River Watershed Region Representative - Louise Hall has volunteered to be the St. Luke’s rep to the new region

LUCC Representative- Jim Louks has agreed to continue that work

Members of the Ministry and Personnel Committee- Judy Forbes has agreed to stay on; with thanks we accept the resignations of Ian Fraser and

Roger Warren

- seeking 2 more members.

o Al Graham, Jim Louks volunteered

Trustees - Receive with great thankfulness, the request from Ian Fraser for removal as Trustee.

The names of the Trustees are located in the Annual Report.

- Roger Warren’s name was accidentally left off the report. His name is to be added.

Motion to accept slate of members and representationsMover/Seconder: To approve the above-named people and the standing members identified in the report book for committee and representative work of the congregation.

- Judy Forbes / Darilyn McKeegan. Carried.

Motion regarding Council Chair and Committee Rep’sMover/Seconder: To allow Council to fill the Chair position and other Committee Representative positions when required at Council Discretion

- Maxine McDonald / Anne Randall. Carried

(Melanie Leading)

Hymn: Voices United 646 We are Marching

Scripture reading: Deuteronomy 30: 15-16, 19-20Reflection

New Business:5

- Futures Group Update

o St. Clair invitations

They have been invited and will participate in the joint service

Tentative date is June 2nd in Bear Park

o Still open to ideas anyone may have to consider.

Monday will work on streamlining committees.

- High Park

o High Park closed last June. Part of their ongoing legacy, for the next 5 years $8500.00 will be donated to us for the HUB.

- Selection of Date of Next Annual General Meeting

o Suggestion that the next Annual General Meeting be held: February 9, 2020

o Suggestion that February 16, 2020 be the backup date reserved for inclement weather

Motion regarding Scheduling of Next Annual General MeetingMover/Seconder: To approve the dates for the next Annual General Meeting as listed above.

- Al Graham / Anne Randall. Carried.

Motion regarding Memorial FundsMover/Seconder: Pending approval of families of donors, motion that the memorial funds be reserved to be used for the furnace replacement.

o Linda Hewitt / Mary Laur. Carried

No further discussion presented.

Blessing and BenedictionChoral Benediction – More Voices 211 Go now in peace, guided by the Light

Meeting ended at 12:10 p.m.

_________________________________ ______________________________

Chairperson Secretary

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2019 Council Members

Chair: Past Chair: Sue Pavey 519-490-4516 suepavey@outlook.com Secretary: Corina Barlow 519-344-2482 hwolrab@sympatico.caTreasurer: Janice McDonald 519-542-8278 jmcdonald131@cogeco.caTrustees: Larry McLaren 519-542-3294 ilmclaren6@cogeco.caRegion & Worship: Louise Hall 519-542-2189 louise@hallonline.caMinistry Personal: Melanie Kirk-Hall 519-330-4993 minister@st.lukesunited.comChurch in Society: Joyce Elliot 519-337-7653 felliott2@cogeco.caStewardship & Finance: Sharon Raaymaker 519-542-4151 sharonraaymaker@gmail.comMembership, Pastoral Care & Fellowship: Marnie Lynn 519-344-2387 bjlynn@sympatico.ca

U.C.W.: Linda Cates 519-542-5872 lcates@cogeco.caChristian Development: Barb Caley 519-383-8735 barbjcaley@outlook.comMinistry & Personnel Judy Forbes 519-344-7691 cjforbsey@gmail.comProperty: Laird Cloran 519-337-4129 lairdcloran@gmail.comMember at Large:

2019 St. Luke’s Trustees

Louise Hall 519-542-2189 louise@hallonline.caLarry McLaren 519-542-3294 ilmclaren6@cogeco.caLorne Pavey 519-490-4516 sunnyp53@hotmail.comJoe Moore 519-542-9800 jmoore8@cogeco.caSharon Raaymaker 519-542-4151 sharonraaymaker@gmail.comRoger Warren 519-490-0289 roger.warren@freedom55financial.com

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Dear Friends,

2019 was a wonderful and surprising year for St. Luke's. You started by coming through financial struggles in the black and rather than resting on laurels, you continued to do the faithful work of discerning how and where the Spirit is calling you as a congregation. It is not easy work, to be certain, but you have been wonderfully faithful through it all.

And as you stand on the cusp of a new year and new decade, I think it is a wise to stop and celebrate all the wonderful ways you have been Christ's hands in the world this year. Whether it be through continuing to offer space and a home to our many rental groups, supporting local initiatives (like Rebound and The Hub) and international ones (with Souls 4 Soles), or supporting and upholding one another in times of joy and in sadness; You have lived the gospel well and you should be proud.

But as we heard in our last Sunday together before my mat leave, "Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." (John 12:24). The call of our faith is not to sit still, to stay stuck in one way forever. We are called to be the church in the world, changing and responding to the Spirit's call.

So I commend you, continue to be bold in your work with the other Sarnia United Churches. Seek the wisdom and learnings that will be gifted to you through the various leaders, teachers and preachers who accompany you this year. Soak it all up! This is the fertile ground! There is new life here, ripe for St. Luke's to be part of! So be faithful and bold, my friends.

In all that 2019 held; fundraisers, community meals, housing the HUB, meetings, fellowship, worship, tears, laughter and love; in all of that St. Luke’s has served God. And I know down to my deepest fibre, whatever 2020 brings, St. Luke’s will continue to serve God with their unique brand of love, care and hospitality.

It continues to be a high honour to be called your minister. I want to acknowledge that I do so with amazing support from the fellow staff; Pauline who always brings passion and dedication to all that she does; Lora, without whom our worship would be so much less; and Rick, who works hard to keep St. Luke’s clean in the midst of all the groups and activities here.

As I take my leave to begin the adventure of motherhood, please know you will be in my deepest prayers. May God continue to bless each and every one of you. May 2020 be a fruitful year for St. Luke's. May God guide all of our way as we follow the path of Jesus.

Shalom, Melanie8

Church Statistics

Marriages in 2019Steven Michael Dawe ~ Cassidy Gloria Hardman

Justin Lee Swanstrom ~ Sarah Veronica HallChristopher Waduck ~ Lindsay Smiley

Travis Drew Richard Acton ~ Tara Nicole Crawford

Baptisms in 2019Nolan Ryan Gauthier

In MemoriamIda Mae AndersonJanet Ann Richards Betty Mae Johnson

Viola Matilda Condie

Church Council Report

The Church Council, for the past year, has been chaired by a rotation of the representatives from the committees. As each committee representative took their turn as chair of council, the remainder of the council members supported any uncertainties that chair person may have had. This was a first-time experience for some Council members and seemed to be a successful accomplishment.

We offer thanks to God for all his blessings this past year for our family at St. Luke’s United Church Sarnia. We also offer thanks to all the contributions made this year: by the minister, by all the members of the committees, by the members of the choir, by those who helped with all the fundraisers and events, by the staff members, by the Sunday School teachers, by the groups who share our space, and by the individual congregants. Without your contributions the year would not have been as successful as it was.

We offer special thanks to Melanie and Scott for all of their hard and generous work, and wish them all the best in their exciting new role as parents. We are also excited for the new possibilities that will present itself with the persons who will be stepping into Melanie’s roll.

Submitted by,Corina Barlow

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Board of Trustees Report

Members of the trustees are:Larry McLaren (chair), Louise Hall (secretary), Joe Moore, Sharon Raaymaker, Roger Warren and Lorne Pavey

The trustees met a couple of times this past fall. We met in September to review a number of things. Our insurance premiums have been gradually increasing over the past 3 years but not out of the ordinary. The cost for 2019-20 is $6218.00 compared to $6100.00 two years ago. The coverage continues to be adequate.

We talked about the manse agreement and came to the realization that we have not signed a lease for last year’s rental agreement. Currently, we are still in the process of having a lawyer look at the draft lease proposed by Community Living. We hope to have that resolved soon.

Incorporated Ministry was another topic for discussion. This idea came from the Future’s Group. They wondered if there might be a possibility that the HUB could be made an incorporated ministry of St. Luke’s. The concern was what might happen to this ministry if St. Luke’s should happen to close in the future. We decided to contact Cheryl Anne from the Antler River Watershed to find out the pros and cons of such a venture. We found out that we could not become an incorporated ministry for this purpose. Instead, the HUB would have to apply to become an incorporated ministry of the United Church of Canada. We don’t think that was feasible so that idea has been shelved.

Submitted by,Larry McLaren

Futures Committee Report

Members of the Futures Committee are:Sharon Raaymaker, Corina Barlow, Laird Cloran, Sandra Leckie, Larry McLaren, Rev Melanie Kirk-Hall (adviser)

One of the first tasks the Futures team undertook in 2019 was to review the surveys which were distributed to the congregation at the end of 2018. We would like to thank the 25 members who took the time to complete the survey and return it. We decided

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to work with the responses and collated them. We developed a summary and used that to determine how we could best follow up on them.

In general, members were pleased with the style of worship. They felt that the sermons were very meaningful and the atmosphere was very friendly. We met with Lora to get her input about the music program. Comments received about the music were varied with some wanting older music and others wishing to have more upbeat music. We think Lora gives us a very balanced style.

Under Pastoral Care, several responses indicated that visits were very important and that this was everyone’s responsibility. It was also felt that pastoral care needs to improve. This will be particularly important when Melanie goes on maternity leave. For those who are interested in assisting with pastoral care, a workshop will be presented by Cheryl Kirk to those interested in learning tips on how to visit.

Regarding leadership, several responses indicated that they felt the current staffing was satisfactory but the responses also indicated that they weren’t sure if this could be maintained. It was felt that the committees should possibly be consolidated since we have too many committees and not enough members to help. A time study was conducted by Judy Forbes which helped show staff and committees how they could work more efficiently. Changes are gradually being put in place.

Early in the year, members of the Futures team met with Central and London Road West to share ideas about where they feel the future will lead them. As well, meetings have been happening regularly with the other city United Churches. From those meetings, a joint service was held in June at the Aamjiwnaang Centre. Starting in September, the city United Churches began visiting each other on the last Sunday of each month. #sameteamsunday services are scheduled to continue on the last Sunday of each month. Work on setting up streaming services, initially from Dunlop, is ongoing. This has much potential for us especially this coming year.

The future is very uncertain and can be a little daunting for some of the United Churches in Sarnia. We are being very proactive in our approach to our future and we believe that as long as we can be very open to new ideas, then St. Luke’s will continue to serve not only its members but its community as our founding members in the 1950’s had envisioned.

Submitted by,Larry McLaren

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Sarnia United Churches Partnership Task Group Report This group was formed as a result of the former Sarnia United Churches Group getting too big (our entire Futures Group attended those meetings). In June we were asked to choose at most, 2 representatives from the churches involved (Central,

Melanie Kirk-Hall and Sandra Leckie were chosen by the Futures Group. Sharon Raaymaker or Larry McLaren sub in when

The purpose we have set out to do is to build relationships with the other congregations, find opportunities to work together, and share resources where possible.

We initiated the #sameteamsunday concept which involves five Sarnia area United Churches. Feedback we have heard has been very positive, and all five churches have agreed to continue with the concept.

We pooled our resources and put together a list of pulpit supply for all worship committees to use in the future.

We are currently working on organizing a spring concert on March 6 featuring local performers from our area United Churches. Plan to attend this fundraising event which will support The Hubs tree planting project, the digital streaming initiative, and other UC funding efforts.

Our digital streaming initiative is at different stages with the participating churches. We are in the process of upgrading our internet speed which will allow us to stream in. The upgrade will also benefit Pauline and Melanie in their daily work with a more reliable internet service as well as viewing YouTube/media clips that are often part of our services.

Submitted by, Sandra Leckie

Piece of the Puzzle! It can be somewhat hard to believe that the partnership between St. Luke’s and the community collaboration known as The Hub began over 3 years ago!

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The Hub Report

#sameteamsunday

Considering the many pieces involved; it goes without saying that the joint effort to complete the puzzle on how to support youth in meeting their basic needs and obtaining the resources they require for success could not be possible without the wonderful and ongoing support from the members of St. Luke’s congregation.

Wow! Look how we have all grown! There have been many changes at The Hub over the past year. We have seen youth grow and mature into the amazing adults they are today; individuals who contribute daily to the progression of our society and community. We have seen many faces come and go this past year, some said their goodbyes and moved on, all while accompanied by tears of sadness and gratitude, and others were welcomed a new, with warm smiles and open hearts. Despite the many changes and challenges we have faced together along the way; we continue to persevere as one community.

Cultivating the world we want to live in! The Hub has had many successes over the past year and we are proud of each and every one of them. One of these amazing successes is a partnership which has been created between The Hub, Return the Landscape, Aamjiwnaang First Nations Greenhouse and The Unitarian Fellowship of Sarnia & Port Huron. This collaboration has come together to create The Teenage Tree Planting Project. This project aims to not only support the financial sustainability of the HUB, but provides skills training that youth need to thrive. On that note, we are also very excited to continue the planning of another potential social enterprise that we hope will also assist with financial sustainability and skills development. These are exciting times, so stay tuned to hear more!We are continually grateful to the St. Luke’s community for your partnership. The success of the HUB is a true testament of the magic that can happen when caring people come together to make the world a better place. Thank you for another successful year! Ryan Mitchell, Program Coordinator

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Prayer Group Report

The Prayer Group meets Monday afternoons to lift in prayer those who are in need of God’s care. Our group has decreased in number to 2 or 3, but the list of those needing prayer has not. Our prayers are silent, but God hears them. We hope that you would be interested in joining this important ministry.

Submitted by,Larry McLaren

Worship Committee Report

Members of the committee are: Rev. Melanie Kirk-Hall, Lora Stevens, Mary Laur, Allison McLaren, Cyndy Hall, Sharon Raaymaker and Louise Hall.

A special thanks to Myrna Ross who looks after the candles every week.

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Our duties include (but are not limited to) arranging for candle lighters, scripture readers, occasional pulpit supply, helping to choose music to reflect the theme of the Worship Services and anything else that would help the overall worship service.

Advent was a Mr. Rogers theme and it seemed so appropriate with his message of Hope, Peace, Love and Joy. Our Christmas Eve service included a play which was especially meaningful.

In 2019 we joined with Brigden, Courtright/Sixth Line for a Good Friday service. In June 5 congregations joined together and we were hosted by St. Clair United Church for a wonderful service and a potluck lunch after. The fall saw the start of #sameteamsunday which has meant the last Sunday of each month is either another congregation is visiting us or we are visiting another congregation. We are extremely proud of the way our congregation has supported this and would like to thank Sandy Leckie who has worked with the other churches to organize the exchanges.

We look forward to what 2020 will bring and would be pleased to welcome you to the committee.

Submitted by,Louise Hall – Chair

Christian Development Report

Our team members are: Allison McLaren (chair), Beth Bettridge, Barb Caley, Larry McLaren, Rev. Melanie Kirk-Hall and Fred MacKay (ad hoc).

This year we have worked with Worship, Church in Society and Membership and Pastoral Care teams as well as other city United Churches.

In March, St. Luke’s, St. Paul’s, London Road West, Dunlop and Lambton Centre provided a successful fun Day Camp for 25 - 30 children at Dunlop United Church. We provided one day of leadership which included preparation of food for snacks and lunch.

Our ‘Change for Change’ Lenten egg collection raised $546.95 which was equally divided between Lambton Centre children’s camps and the August GO Project day camp.

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Sunday School teachers Beth Bettridge, Shelley McEwan, Allison McLaren and Heather Wray retired in June and were presented with lovely glass paper weights in appreciation for their many years of dedication to working with our young people. Corina Barlow, Judy Forbes, Sue & Mike Lambier and Mary Ellen Warren have volunteered to each teach once a month. Beth, with resources from Grace United, outlined a new Bible story based curriculum. Over the summer, Abby Verwegen organized and cross referenced this new curriculum with our own resources. We have 8 children registered for Sunday School.

The GO Project was held in August. St. Luke’s provided daily kitchen assistance for the week. Sasha and Duncan Taylor, graduates from our Sunday School, were program helpers.

In case you weren’t aware, we have copies of “Our Daily Bread”, a daily devotional booklet, located at the back of the sanctuary which are free for your use.

We organized a list of names of our members who can no longer attend regular worship. Joyce DeMeester provided photos to use on Christmas cards. Thanks is extended to all those who personally delivered those cards to our members.

Our team appreciates your support for the programmes we provide.

Submitted by,Allison McLaren

Church in Society Report

This is the committee that is dedicated to promoting and informing the congregation about outreach locally, nationally and internationally. This include Missions and Service, Gifts with Vision, the Breakfast Program, the Food Bank, the Inn of the Good Shepherd, the Canadian Food Grains Bank, the Hub, Yule Glow, Habitat for Humanity, Lambton Church Center and other causes that might arise. We educate and fundraise throughout the year when appropriate for these causes.

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Our Photo Night in Feb was well attended and raised funds to support the Breakfast Program. We donate $100.00 a month, ten months of the year to local Resource Houses for children in need of nutritional help. Much thanks goes to Joyce DeMeester who puts on the event and coordinates with the YMCA our support of this cause. This also includes a donation of $50.00 a month to the Hub for food vouchers.

In March we held a Pancake Dinner with proceeds going to the church. We also helped plan and put on the Basement Sale in the spring with proceeds going to the church.

This spring we introduced a new outreach program called Soles4Souls. We are collecting used shoes and donating them to Bioped who then distribute them to women in developing countries who set up micro businesses helping them learn to run a business, earn money, support their families and also provide affordable shoes for needy folk in their communities. Thanks for your very generous support. In September we stepped back from organizing the Back to Church Luncheon but did assist and we helped Pauline with the Fall Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction with funds going to the church. Also in the fall during Creation Time, with our backing Melanie provided ideas concerning environmental issues during Word of all Ages.

In November we assisted with a church service explaining and promoting The Canadian Food Grains Bank. This was followed by a soup luncheon with proceeds for the cause. It was well received and supported. This year we also stepped back from organizing the Yule Glow Hampers. That was taken over by a committee from council with our backing and input.

We did promote Gifts with Vision, a catalogue which offers opportunities to support outreach both in Canada and abroad. This catalogue can be used throughout the year. Thanks to all for your continuing support.

Our committee members are Joyce Elliott (Council Representative), Mary Laur (Chair), Pauline Henderson -Ferguson (Secretary), Joyce DeMeester and Sue Lambier. We thank Rev. Melanie for all her guidance and support.

Submitted by,Mary Laur

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Guatemalan Update

This is an update on our former Guatemalan Education Program. On my visit last fall with my family I learned a bit more about what has been happening since we backed away.

The village has continued to grow with more and more children wanting a better education. The village elders and Guillermo managed to work with the government to stress the need. I learnt that the government is now providing a teacher for the students from grades 6 to 9 and they are being taught in the village. They are sharing the school that has been in the village for younger students, alternating hours so the school is doing double duty. The land and the plans are still in place for a future school but it will take more time to be ready to push for that to happen.

Also, the boat and motor that we provided is being maintained by the village elders and is being used for emergency medical transportation, taking people by boat to where they can access medical help. It is also being used for funerals. The cemetery is located across the river from the village so the boat is used to transport the deceased and their loved ones to the site.

I have recently learned that the village continues to improve its infrastructure. They have made many improvements to the dock and walkway leading to the village. There are more stores in the village making necessities more available.

Our support over the years was a catalyst that continues to benefit the village of Las Brisas and they remain most appreciative of our help.

Submitted by,Mary Laur

Ministry and Personnel Report

St. Luke’s contributes a great deal to the well-being of our community and many outreach programs which would not be possible without the wonderful and caring staff we have. They are the backbone of the Church and an integral part of our success here at St. Luke’s.

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Rev. Melanie continues to guide us as a progressive Church family with her unwavering optimism and caring attitude. She uplifts us each Sunday and challenges us to be what God wants us to, truly know in her heart that we are all capable of doing just that. She takes the time and has the patience to listen, softly partnering with each of us to help us become our better selves. Thank you for your leadership and believing in us as individuals and as a congregation Melanie!

As all of you are aware we continue to provide many services to our local community and offer St. Luke’s space to many organizations. This requires an organized gatekeeper and Pauline greets this responsibility with a very caring and welcoming attitude. We are very thankful for her patience and co-operation coordinating the many activities in the Church. Thank you, Pauline, for always willing to lend a helping hand when needed and keeping us on track!

Sunday Service would not be complete without the wonderful music and song provided by our Music Director Lora and the St. Luke’s choir. We are very blessed to have such a dedicated group of individuals who share their talent and lead us in the worship of song each Sunday. Lora, thank you for sharing your amazing gift of music and also your leadership, it is greatly appreciated. At this time, I would also like to acknowledge Donna Taylor who so graciously offered to help out with both Sunday service and also Choir practice while Lora was away, we are truly thankful!

We would also like to thank Rick Sauve who has taken over the custodial duties of the Church. As many of you are aware, Rick has been with us for a long time and because of his knowledge of the Church it was a very professional and seamless transition. Rick continues to be very accommodating to St. Luke’s very busy schedule and has provided many upgrades to our facilities, offering valuable input to improve our environment here at St. Luke’s. Thank you for your flexibility and understanding Rick!

The Hiring Committee of Jim Louks, Sharon Raaymaker and Mary Laur have worked hard and done a great job at securing Pulpit Supply up to May 1st for St. Luke’s, to cover the first few months of Melanie’s maternity leave. We will continue to communicate to the congregation as we work through this process. If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the Ministry and Personnel Committee.

Scott and Melanie…we will miss you both very much as you head off on the amazing and wonderful journey of parenthood. There will be some early mornings and late nights, but also many hugs and lots of love along the way. All the best to you both!

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Thank you all for your support,

Ministry and Personnel Committee – Jim Louks, George Vincent and Judy Forbes

Submitted by,Judy Forbes, Chair

Property Report

Members of the Property TeamLaird Cloran (chair), Larry McLaren, Maxine McDonald, Jim Metcalfe

Being part of the property team has become a real eye-opener for me. Having served on this committee for 1 1/2 years now has given me a new appreciation for all the time and effort the past teams (especially chairs of this committee) have dedicated to this ministry. Our dear Art Lachovich must have made the St. Luke’s building his second home. I know from firsthand experience that Laird has spent a lot of time doing all kinds of jobs around the church and deserves a huge thank you. Here is a short list of some things which have been done:

-window in HUB replaced-carpets cleaned-handicap washroom door replaced-tables repaired -a couple of flooded basements mopped -drain outside kitchen door enlarged-hole in parking lot filled in with asphalt-downspouts redirected away from church building-arranging regular safety inspections-shutting down and turning on boiler system-fixing leak in radiator outside shower bathroom-fixing lighting-arranging furnace inspections-checking out roof leaks

As mentioned in last year’s report, we have been told that the three furnaces are old and it is unknown how much longer they will last. To be prepared, money has been set

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aside and designated for this purpose. Another matter which has surfaced is the lighting in the sanctuary. Some lights at the front are not working. An electrician took a look at them and corrected the problem. We were advised that the current floodlights are very expensive to operate and should be replaced by efficient LED’s. We need to be prepared for these potential expenses.

I would like to give a special thank you to Doug Bazeley for sharing his expertise on some electrical issues and providing some electrical upgrades. I thank others who have come to help us mop floors after water has come in following downpours. Please consider offering your help on this committee. Laird and I would really appreciate any assistance.

Submitted by,Larry McLaren

Membership, Fellowship and Pastoral Care Report

The Membership, Fellowship and Pastoral Care committee ensure that our records are up to date and keep our people in touch with the church family. We make a special effort to touch base with our home bound residents and to those who are having a stressful time. A special thank you goes to all who have donated their time to go and visit. Your efforts to bring comfort and assurance are truly appreciated. Also I would like to thank Joyce DeMeester for taking photos and using them to make personal cards for us to give. It is nice to see memories stirred when we visit someone and they receive the photo card.

Marnie Lynn arranges for greeters on Sunday mornings. Thank you to all who have volunteered to be a greeter. It means so much to be greeted with friendly smiles and/or a warm hug before each service. Thank you for your time and dedication.Before Christmas, the Christian Development team helped make Christmas cards for the home bound people and people in nursing homes. They also got a small gift from the bazaar at the nearly new table.

The active committee members are Doreen Buchan and Marnie Lynn. Thank you especially to Rev. Melanie Kirk-Hall for being our advisor throughout the year. I would like to thank the committee for their support and dedication during the last year and to Melanie for the guidance in what we do.

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Submitted byMargaret (Marnie) Lynn

Ministry of Music Report

Well it is hard to believe that another year has flown by. It's been a year full of singing for our small but mighty choir. Generally, for most of the year, our choir has been fluctuating around 7-10 members. I feel very lucky for my faithful bunch on which I can still do 4 part harmony music with.

As most are aware, I had to step back later in the year due to medical issues and a chance to receive some treatments at the hospital. I want to say thank you to everyone for all the support and prayers through that difficult time. A big thank you to my mother, Donna Taylor, for stepping in there to fill in those weeks. And also a big thank you to my choir for the patience and love during this time.

We are currently practicing Thursdays at 4 pm in the sanctuary. If you have any questions about being interested in the choir, please don't hesitate to contact myself or any of the choir members. We are always thankful if anyone feels the call to serve in our ministry of music. And if you have any other musical talents, I would love to work with you in sharing them in the church.

Again, I would like to express a big thank you to the choir and the church. You are always supportive in my music and in my life. I feel so lucky to have you all in my church family. I love my work at St. Luke's and I love my friendships even more. Your friend in Christ,Lora Stevens, Music Director

Tai Chi Report

The Tai Chi group meets every Wednesday morning from 9:30-10:30 am in the church basement. Our instructor is Master James Carrothers. He does his best to get us to focus on the 108 moves of the set. We begin by doing the whole set and then spend time improving specific moves. It is a relaxed and fun hour followed by coffee and tea from those who wish to stay. We are open to the whole community and you are welcome to join us any Wednesday.

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Submitted by, Joyce Elliot

Men’s Breakfast Report

The men’s breakfast is held on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Sometimes we got together at the church and we collectively prepared a hearty breakfast for those who were there. Other times, we met at a restaurant and shared a meal. There is always much fellowship as we discuss various events in our lives, our church, our community and the world. This group welcomes all men; not only from St. Luke’s but friends as well. To all men, please circle the 3rd Saturday of the month and join us for breakfast.

Submitted by,Larry McLaren

Low Impact Exercise Program

Tuesday and Thursdays mornings from 9:30-10:30 am, certified volunteers with the West Lambton Community Health Centre (WLCHC) facilitate low impact exercises classes. These classes are held in the basement. (Excluding the 4th Tuesday of the month.) Each instructor has completed the Seniors Fitness Instructor Course through the Centre for Activity and Aging at Western University in London, ON. The classes are structured to focus on maintaining independence and keeping fit and healthy at any age. These classes are free and available to anyone in the community. All fitness levels and abilities welcome.

This year the Council approved the request to add two more months of classes here at St. Luke’s. Starting this past fall, classes now run from October to May. Many members of the congregation as well as the neighbourhood participate in these classes.

Submitted by,Pauline Henderson-Ferguson

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St. Luke’s United ChurchCommunity Groups Outreach Program

(Offering a warm & welcoming environment for groups to meet)

Year RoundTuesday: Low Impact Exercise 9:30 am to 10:30 am

Hand Weavers (4th Tuesday) 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Wednesday:Tai Chi 9:30 am to 10:30 amTOPS (take off pounds sensibly) 5:15 pm to 7:30 pm

Thursday: Low Impact Exercise 9:30 am to 10:30 amGirls Mentoring (every other Thursday) 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Friday: Souper Lunch Fridays (2nd Friday) 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Narcotics Anonymous 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Saturday: Alcoholics Anonymous 7:00 pm to 10:00 pmSarnia Assembly of NA (last Saturday of the month)

9:00-11:00 amSunday: Love First Church 2:00-4:00 pm Summer The Week of PHUN (2 weeks) July

Lambton Youth Jazz Orchestra July-August

OccasionalHand Weavers Regional Seminar Once a yearSafe Communities Sarnia Lambton Once a yearRebound/Big Sisters/Big Brothers As RequestedGoodwill As RequestedCommunity Birthday Parties/ Christmas As RequestedDinners/Baby and Bridal Showers/Anniversaries

United Church Women’s Report

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The UCW ladies would like to express our sincere ‘Thank You’ to all the congregational members. We could not even come close to the fundraising goals we set for ourselves without each and every one of you helping us along the way. There are many jobs and commitments we ask many of you to do, and you never disappoint.

We have rotating Executives positions to help spread out some of the responsibilities throughout the year. The Executives for 2020 are as follows:

Co-PresidentsJanuary to March – Linda Hewitt and Beth BettridgeApril to June – Myrna Ross and Anne RandallSeptember – December – Linda Cates and Judy ForbesTreasurer – Linda HewittLeast Coin – Myrna RossFlower Fund – Lily RamseySecretary – Judy Forbes

Our calendar was pretty full last year with our many fundraising events and this resulted in St. Luke’s UCW raising over $13,000.00 in 2019. Our fundraising dollars help out many local community agencies, along with our world outreach programs, and our own Church expenses here at St. Luke’s. We are small in numbers but have a lot of enthusiasm and are committed to helping out where we can.

Along with our baking, crafting and organizing we treat ourselves and get together twice a year as a group. Once in June for lunch usually and again in December. This year we decided to host our own Christmas Dinner spearheaded by our chef Linda Hewitt. After dinner some very talented actors got together and entertained our members with a rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas. All I can say is that there was a lot of laughter, a lot of mess and also some chickens flying around!

The one thing which makes this group such a blessing to be a part of is the commitment to the well-being of each other and to St Luke’s United Church. We are there to support each other whenever we are needed and do so with kindness, respect and care.

Anyone wishing to join us, we would love to have you! Our meetings are the first Tuesday of the month (excluding July and August) at 7:00 pm in the Church basement. We have a great time and a lot of fun when we get together!

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The UCW ladies would like to send our blessings to both Scott and Melanie as they embark on a new and wonderful journey with their little one.

Thank you all for your support and God Bless,

UCW Ladies Report submitted by, Judy Forbes, Secretary

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Stewardship and Finance Report

Chair: Sharon RaaymakerCommittee members: Linda Hewitt, Sandra Leckie, Janice McDonald (treasurer), George Vincent

Stewardship and Finance committee meet as needed to review the financial data, plan for fundraisers/services/after church coffee, etc.

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We introduced a “Tart Sale” in conjunction with the basement sale. We spent an afternoon making butter tarts and asked the congregation to donate other varieties.

Our Stewardship Sundays theme this year was “Thankfulness” and were held over two Sundays in October, one of which was Thanksgiving.

We continue to sell shopping cards which is an opportune means for anyone to support the church and use the cards as gifts or to purchase their own groceries, gas, Timmies, etc.

Our final responsibility each year is to review the committee budgets, prepare the church budget for the following year, and submit it to the council for approval.

Submitted by,Sandra Leckie

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