Tacoma, WA 98465
It has been a while since I shared Vestry news with you, but rest assured, we continue to serve St. Andrews and you to the best of our abilities.
It is a new year, and that has meant greeting new members of the Vestry and saying fare-well to friends and colleagues
we have worked with through these challenging times. Tom Egnew, Margo Fleshman and Devyn Cameron all took their leave of us with sadness on our parts and much gratitude for their valuable voices. Kendall Burch stayed on for a second term and has as-sumed the role of Junior Warden (thanks Kendall). Marian Warren, John Austin and Bill Baarsma all came to our table and we are already working diligently to continue our mission “To know Christ and to make Christ known.” We held our second vestry meeting with this new configuration last night. I will share the highlights in a moment. We have also held our first vestry retreat in two years, partly by zoom, and partly in person. It felt good to be together, sharing food, laughter and the scope of the work we are faced with. Here are brief notes from our retreat and last night’s meeting.
Vestry Meeting notes:
Leadership items: A huge thanks to Steve Kieta who guided the Vestry through “Finding God in All Things: An Introduction to Ignatian Spirituality” as we met for our retreat. This set the tone for our discussions. Liaisons for the various ministries were chosen and they will be reaching out to those of you involved in the many ministries occurring (even during Covid). The list is attached. These folks will make sure the vestry is aware of any issues or concerns you might have in your work that we can help resolve. (Here is the link for the Liaisons):
The puzzle exchange is in full swing. If you are tired of reruns, aren’t into March Madness or have completed all the puzzles you have in your closet, bring one and exchange it for a fresh challenge.
Services during Holy Week were outlined.
Safety: Next steps for the response to Covid were discussed. With the removal of the mask mandate St. Andrews is determining whether or not to continue to require masks, and the removal of the tape. A very brief survey will come out. Please take a moment to share your thoughts and concerns. Safety continues to be the focus of the Vestry.
Adult formation: Dave Tinsley conducted an excellent class on mysticism (this was the class so rudely interrupted by Covid 2 years ago). For Lent, Peach McDouall has been leading the diocesan Anti-racism class on Monday evenings on zoom. Bible study has also resumed on Wednesday mornings prior to the noon service. All are welcome.
Youth and family ministry: this has been on hold during Covid but the desire to jump start this ministry is there and several vestry members ( Kendall Burch, Giorah Bour and Devyn Cameron) will be adding some activities for youth for Easter. Watch for more information coming.
Financial statements for February were reviewed and approved. Everything continues to be on track. (Bill Brice reported out with Giorah Bohr reviewing)
The Profile Committee continues to be called. (John Austin is the vestry liaison) We are almost ready for them to begin their work, and will release the names of the members by next week.
Mutual Ministry Goals were finalized. These goals are required by the Diocese in conjunction with our interim priest. There are three of them. One is the diocesan goal, and the updates from the vestry liaisons (John Cain and Sandy Dick) to the kitchen remodel were shared. The Vestry is considering whether the capacity to move this forward exists. St. An-drews has been given an approximate cost. The liaisons are researching whether the will to commit funds exists. This work is important but it cannot be accomplished without finan-cial commitment from our congregation. Please pray on this and let our liaisons know your thoughts.
Transition continues. The work of the Profile Committee is next and we are almost ready to begin. I know each of you will readily share your thoughts and concerns with this dedicated group. John Austin will be the Vestry liaison for them.
Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers as we all move forward. Your support and love is greatly appreciated.
Peace,
Judy