Parish Council President's Message- October 2024

The clock continues to turn, and we find ourselves in October! Now that the Fall season is upon us (and the temperatures have normalized somewhat) there are numerous meetings and get-togethers planned with various ministries. It’s wonderful to see and I hope each of you takes the opportunity to try something new and join one of the groups/meetings. Participation in these events is great for our social, intellectual and spiritual well-being.

You’ve read about the changes proposed to the Ministry House and I am proud to say the work is beginning. It will be done in stages as contracts are signed and our projects get added to the schedules of the various contractors. To start things off, a new air conditioning unit was installed on Thursday (10/17)! The roof renovation began this week, Monday, Oct 21!! On the same day, the large carob tree on the west side of the lot was trimmed so the roofers have access to that side of the house. Plans are under way to schedule renovations of certain rooms, ceiling work, flooring and painting. These changes should make the Ministry House much more accommodating and allow for a more pleasurable experience for our Sunday School classes and various ministry and social meetings.

Hopefully, you have seen the announcements for the Greek Taverna we are hosting on November 9^th! I talked about it in my message last month, but I wanted to bring it up again and encourage each of you to not only come to partake of the food being prepared, but (more importantly) to help in any way you can. There is a sign-up genius on-line, or you can sign up after Liturgy in the community center. When I talk about stewardship, I always mention time, talent and treasure; with most of that emphasis (obviously) being on treasure. This event is a wonderful example of a way you can give of your time and talent. Funds raised allow us to reduce our mortgage, while we continue growing the parish and its ministries. The sense of pride that comes from all this work is evident in the entire parish. But those that are doing the work behind the scenes get an additional boost of energy knowing their efforts are building something better than it was before.

It is also time to announce and discuss the importance of the upcoming General Assembly meeting (GA). The meeting will take place after Liturgy on the 17^th of November. Lunch will be provided for those that attend the meeting (donations accepted, of course!). We will begin once the Sunday School children have been released from their classes and you are able to get situated. We have two of these meetings per year; one in the Fall and the other in the Spring. These meetings are where we (the parish council) share the financial and physical status of the church with the stewards. While we summarize all the activities of the parish, any large funds requests, by-laws changes and the proposed 2025 budget are brought before the GA for a vote of approval or denial. So, this meeting is vital to the working model of the church and provides transparency from the parish council to the stewards of the parish. It is of the utmost importance that you make every effort to attend so you not only hear ‘what’s going on’ in all aspects of the parish, but you also have the opportunity to be heard and vote on the issues brought forward.

The various ministry leaders will give reports on their respective ministries; while any candidates for the parish council elections will be asked to present a brief biography so that those in attendance can know who they are and get to know them better.

Along with everything else you evaluate and decide to become involved with at St Katherine, the parish council is another ministry of the church many should consider. There is a time commitment involved, and the responsibilities vary depending on your strengths and desires to learn. However, your personal commitment of time and talent will prove to be a very rewarding experience as we chart a new course for our parish.

Stewardship Thought for October: “It is critical that everyone discovers and lives their own personal WHY, the reason for their life and the reason to their life. In his Letter to the Ephesians 4:1 St. Paul clearly states “…I beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called…” When one discovers and lives their callings, their life becomes more purposeful, joyful and filled with gratitude and grace. Do something today in gratitude for Christ’s redeeming love and to help prepare your soul for salvation! God bless you as you pursue your own unique stewardship calling.” From “Stewardship Sound Bites” by Bill Marianes.

“Freely you have received, freely give.” (Matthew 10:18)

Yours in Christ,

John Chrisagis, Parish Council President

As we move forward with renovations of the Ministry House and other projects, the parish is going to have a workday on Saturday, November 16! We are going to rent a dumpster and place it on our property so we can clean and throw away any items that are no longer needed and in too bad of shape to donate to any individuals or agencies.

There will be various areas of work, so there should be “something for everyone.” We will be cleaning out the two storage rooms in the Community Center. They are both located on the East side of the hall (by the stage). Anything we want to keep we will move to storage in the 5^th acre house. Items no longer needed or used will be thrown away.

We will also be doing some demolition work and painting in the Ministry House. We’ll need volunteers to remove the carpet in the back rooms of the house and then begin painting those rooms. This help will save us a considerable amount of money on this project.

Outside the Ministry House we will be removing the existing railroad ties and other unneeded items. We also plan to lay large stone pavers from the gate to the back door of house.

Plenty to do. Lunch will be provided. Start time – 9:00 am!

Thank you so much for your consideration.

jnc