SALEM LUTHERAN CHURCH COUNCIL MINUTES

The Salem Church Council met on September 11, 2003 in the Lounge.

Those present were: Pastor Dykstra, Pastor Mackey, Deb Bachman, Doug Bruhns, Bruce Adams Dianne Gardner, Margaret Okland, Scott Helgeson, Keith Helland, Wayne Nyguard, Lori Westcott. Absent: Mark Alphs, Rhonda Charlton and Kathy Gilbertson

The council sang a hymn and then Pastor Dykstra led us with devotion and prayer.

Each council member individually read the Secretary's Report. Motion to accept the minutes was made by Bruce Adams and seconded by Doug Bruhns.

Board Reports:
Board of Education: Lori Westcott reported on the plans for the first day of Sunday School. The theme is "walking with Jesus". The board is looking for a high school teacher. They are also looking for 2nd rotation teachers and supplies.

Board of Life and Growth: Margaret Okland reported that the worship bags are completed and will be placed in the Narthex. A letter will be going out to the parents explaining the bags. A new member's fellowship coffee is being planned for this fall. The date will be announced later.

Board of Stewardship and Social Ministry: Wayne Nyguard reported the Pricilla Circle would be doing the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes again this year. They will be giving out information during adult forum this fall. The board is planning their fall campaign in November and the theme is "Making a difference for Christ and his kingdom".

Board of Worship and Music: Keith Helland reported on the Norwegian Youth Choir which will be here on September 30th. Everyone is encouraged to attend. The board has committed to having Robert Robinson return to Salem on March 28. On Sunday, November 11 the American Organist Guild workshop will be here. The board is looking into starting up a children's choir.

Board of Youth: Deb Bachman reported that Parish youth boards met to discuss what they would like to see done concerning the youth.

Board of Property and Management: Bruce Adams reported on the tuck pointing and the stained glass windows. The Bovard Company will be sending a proposal on the work that needs to be repaired. The bell tower flooring will also be repaired. These projects need to be done and fundraising is being worked on. They will be replacing 2-3 thermostats in the Sunday school wing.

Treasurer's Report was given by Doug Bruhns. As of August 31 we have a balance of $3358.97. The money received during Lenten services was given to Bible camps. Riverside received $500, Ingham $500 and Day Camp received $290. The amount of $3200 has been collected for the sidewalks and will be given towards our bank loan.

The Financial Secretary's Report was given by Dianne Gardner. The amount of $31,561.71 was deposited in the month of August. Statements will be sent out in October.

One In Christ Parish Council: Scott Helgeson reported on the Mutual Ministry Committee, equivalent to our staff support was put together. Each parish has one representative and Bart Winter will represent Salem. The Geographical Parish will begin working on the new year's budget. There will be adjustments made due to experience thus far. The budget proposal will be given to individual congregations by November 1 so each congregation can complete their budget. A new computer has been ordered for Helen.
A motion was made by Wayne Nyguard, seconded by Keith Helland to accept board reports.

Old Business: There was discussion on how to handle the improvement project pledges. Scott recommended a task force for raising the money. They will be asking members to be on the committee. It was discussed giving Dan Skogen seminary support. Pastor Dykstra will check on a possible seminary scholarship that could be started. The board will make a decision at the October meeting after they have been given more information. A letter has been prepared to send those still on our membership roster but no longer living in the area. After reviewing the list of suggested recipients and letter a motion was made by Wayne Nyguard and seconded by Margaret Okland to accept the list and letter. Synod Mission Specialist, Mark Anderson will be speaking on evangelism at Sion on Sunday from 2-5 PM. The council was urged to attend

New Business: The nominating committee will be scheduling a meeting. Pastor Dykstra will set a date. A motion was made by Doug Bruhns and seconded by Bruce Adams to accept Deb Bachman, Mike & Wanda Playter, Seth, Ben and Hannah, Christi Schmidt, Lory Slattum, and Erin Werner as new members of Salem and Ruby Loken, Nathan Johnson and Kathy (Ainley) Henderson requested transfers.

The next meeting is scheduled for Thursday; October 9, 2003. A motion to adjourn was made by Dianne Gardner, seconded by Margaret Okland.

We closed with the Lord's Prayer.
Kathy Gilbertson, Recording Secretary