The Salem Church Council met February 10, 2005 in the fellowship hall.
Those present were: Pastor Dykstra, Pastor Mackey, Deb Kingland, Doug Bruhns, Dianne Gardner, Linda Rasmusson, Don Aamodt, Keith Helland, and Jerry Hoffman. Absent: Scott Helgeson, Bob Peterson and Kathy Gilbertson.
Pastor Dykstra led us in devotions and prayer. Deb Kingland conducted the meeting in the absence of President Scott Helgeson. Don Aamodt was welcomed to the board and will be the new chairman of the Board of Stewardship and Growth.
Each council member individually read the Secretary's Report. Motion to accept the minutes was made by Linda Rasmusson and seconded by Keith Helland.
The Financial Report was given by Dianne Gardner. The amount of $35,838.00 was deposited in January. Dianne gave a reminder on the offering procedure.
The Treasurer's Report was given by Doug Bruhns. As of January 31, 2005 we have a balance of $ 25,827.18. Our $53,000 loan also remains. Doug mentioned the concern at the annual meeting of meeting the budget for the coming year. The format of his report was reviewed. A motion was made by Jerry Hoffman seconded by Amy Olson to accept these reports.
Board Reports:
Board of Worship and Music: Keith Helland reported the schedules for communion servers and lay readers are completed. The Waldorf Choir will be performing at Salem on February 24. The parish wide service in the school auditorium will be March 6. Tickets are on sale in various stores for the Robert Robinson concert on March 20.
Board of Stewardship and Social Ministry: Don Aamodt reported the board terminated the contract with the former stewardship program. Assistant Bishop Larson may come and speak to the board about implementing a new program.
Board of Education: No report
Board of Youth: Amy Olson reported Wendy Smith as a new member to their board. On February 20 the Agape Christian music group will perform. Plans are being made for a ski trip for this month. Amy mentioned the Christmas cookies baked and delivered to the shut-ins went very well again this year.
Board of Life and Growth: Linda Rasmusson reported April 10 will be the new member reception. Frank Ostby is organizing a parish wide camping trip on June 24-26 at the Clear Lake State Park. Jen McGrady has volunteered to make more little bags for the children to use during the service.
Board of Property and Management: Jerry Hoffman reported the plastering was completed in the church by "an act from God". The company will come back later for any touch up work needed. The stained glass window will be the next big project. The bid is for $34,000.00. The tuck pointing will be on a continual maintenance program. There will be a coffee product change and it will be purchased through Equal Exchange, a LWR project. The proceeds go primarily to the grower. Coffee packages will also be for sale.
One In Christ Parish Council: Pastor Dykstra reported on a meeting with West Prairie in Leland. They have requested an extension for 6 months of coverage. Details will be worked out at the parish meeting next week.
Motion was made by Keith Helland seconded by Doug Bruhns to accept these reports.
Old Business: Deb Bachman, Pastor Dykstra and Amy Olson did some reflecting on their Guatemala trip. Each had some special moments to share. They all felt it was a rewarding experience. The pastors attended a workshop on "Purpose Driven Lutherans" and felt it was a good experience and gave a brief overview on the week's program.
New Business: There will be a Parish Listening Post and Evaluation Discussion at Salem. The goal is to reflect on the progress of the parish and to evaluate what we feel God likes about what we are doing in the parish and what he does not like about it. Frank Dahn requested to use our building for a few adult piano lessons. A motion was made by Keith Helland and seconded by Doug Bruhns to allow Frank to use the building and ask for a tithe as payment. The pastors reported the high speed internet was greatly appreciated.
The next meeting will be held Thursday, March 10, 2005. A motion to adjourn was made by Dianne Gardner and seconded by Linda Rasmusson.
We closed with silent prayer for our prayer partners and the Lord's Prayer.
Kathy Gilbertson, Recording Secretary