Report of the Co-Moderators

Report of the Co-Moderators

We are pleased to report progress and success on many fronts.

A great many people have been involved in the implementation of the cluster system and the adjustments that have been necessary as we work through the details of operating in this new structure. More “fine tuning” during the year ahead will bring the system even closer to our needs. Each cluster now has control of its own budget as it carries out traditional programs and initiates creative planning. Makepeace funds are shown as an element of each cluster’s budget, making these funds more visible, but not changing the way they are used.

We have made excellent progress toward “greening” the church structure and in joining the effort to make ourselves and our neighbors more aware. New thermostats, additional insulation, replacement triple-pane windows, and vigilance should result in significant energy savings.

Our Treasurer has overseen two examinations of our financial procedures and initiated changes resulting in the adoption of the 2009 budget before the new fiscal year began. Monthly financial statements are now easier to read and understand. An investment committee has been formed to insure that our money is working for us in the best way possible.

The church newsletter, now laid out to reflect our clusters, is testament to the amazing vigor and variety of church activities, which serve both the spiritual needs of members and friends and reach out in our mission to the community and the wider world.

The church website is becoming more complete, continually providing additional information and enabling us to improve communication with one another and with the community.

The Church Council has begun to focus on long term issues and on ways to keep our church vital far into the future. The Council has become primarily a policy making and planning body. During the year the Council deliberated and formulated measures which will be the basis for a Policy Manual. This document will provide guidelines for those who assume positions of church governance and will also provide some institutional history.

We are grateful to all church volunteers and our loyal staff for their spirit of cooperation in our collective effort to keep the church a force for good in our lives, individually and communally.

Carolyn Behr and Carl Westerdahl, Co-Moderators