VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS - JAN.

Christmas service schedules will be reviewed to ensure the timing of Jireh Church services and our services do not conflict with each other. Our parish Christmas party will be held on Dec. 28 from 7-10 p.m. at the Rectory; the Philippine Friendship Singers will perform. Fr. Isaias’ vacation is planned for Jan. 29 to Feb. 19, 2020, and he is arranging for supply priests for three Sundays. He will be posting a calendar in the Narthex with parish activities and liturgical service dates. The calendar will be posted on a three-month rotating basis throughout the year. Fr. Isaias will check with the Diocese about 2020 plans for Confirmation. The first segment of Prayer Partners ends in January, and a meeting will be held to see how it is working so far. Ongoing general maintenance work continues. Electrical work will be taking place to improve interior and exterior lighting, plus replacement of some lighting receptacles where necessary. Renovation of the rectory kitchen was addressed along with the importance of hiring a contractor. Getting this project underway and completed must be a priority. The Dining Side-by-Side events in the new year are tentatively planned to take place on Jan. 12, April 19, June 14 and Oct. 11.

 ~ Loretta S., Clerk of the Vestry

 ****

2019 ARCHIVE:

DECEMBER 2019 Issue

MEETING (NOV. 12) HIGHLIGHTS:
Plans for the necessary repair and replacement of the rectory gutters are in the works. The inside and outside church lighting situation has been looked into by Bob P., who came to the meeting to give a report on his findings. An electrician recommended by Bob will be used to make the necessary changes as soon as possible to improve the overall lighting needs in the parking lot area, the front of the church, the rectory entrance and the nave lighting. Ms. Annie Downey has been hired as cemetery administrative assistant, which will relieve Debbie McGee’s workload. Once Annie has been fully trained by Debbie, it is hoped the church office will then be staffed five days a week. It has been decided to cut back the Dining Side-by-Side program to a quarterly event – the next “dining date” on the calendar is set for Sunday, Jan. 5, 2020. We will be sponsoring a Little League team once again and games will be at the Plainview Park on Washington Avenue. Parishioners are encouraged to support the team by going to some games and cheering them on during playing season.

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE OCTOBER 2019 VESTRY MEETING

Buildings and Grounds – Tower/Cross: The tower is down; the steeple cross has been placed in the garden and the surround has been re-covered and painted gray. The cement base will be power-washed. We’ll look into power washing the church roof. The cross was initially painted a dark brown. Ken was authorized to have it re-painted gold. The front doors of the church were given a fresh coat of red paint.

Lighting in the nave: We might only need a new dimmer switch. The quotes will be presented to the vestry when they are received.

Cemetery: We voted to pay $6,500 to Nelson Pope Civil Engineers to develop a plan for the water drainage in the cemetery.

Vestry Nominations: Candidates for Vestry must be pledging members in good standing for one year. Elections will be held at the Annual Meeting on Dec. 1, 2019.

****

SEPTEMBER 2019

Buildings and Grounds – Tower/Cross: Last month, the vestry approved a proposal to take down the tower structure but retain the cross. In September, Ken Rice provided a plan to the vestry, which recommends placing the cross from the tower in the garden bed in front of the church. The plan also includes installing new cement board around the existing risers that form the garden. Flowers will remain planted around the cross. The project was approved. The vestry thanks Ken R. for his efforts with this project. Lighting: Some research is being done to determine if the lights in the nave should be replaced with LED lights. Also, the dimmer switch for the nave lighting may need to be replaced.  Some quotes are being obtained for this work. Kitchen Renovation: We have three estimates for the kitchen. It is hoped that the project can be completed before Christmas.

Cemetery: Barbara A. shared two estimates from civil engineers outlining their proposals to draw up the plans for improving the drainage, in the cemetery. The cemetery committee continues to work on this project. It is expected that work will take place in 2020.

Outreach: We will host Dining-Side-by-Side in October at Shepherd Hill. It was recommended that St. Margaret’s host this activity on a quarterly basis going forward.

### 

AUGUST 13, 2019

… St. Margaret’s will be starting a Prayer Partners Program in October as part of our commitment to Renewal Works. Everyone wishing to participate can give their name to Fr. Isaias.

… Fr. Isaias will do a 3-part Instructional Eucharist in the near future.

… The top of the former tower still on the lawn will be removed before the Fall Fair. We will retain the cross for future placement.

… The Cemetery Committee has quotes from three Civil Engineering firms to advise us on the best way solution for various cemetery concerns, including drainage and ADA issues.  

… Several quotes for the rectory kitchen renovation are in; we hope to get that project going soon.

#######

2019 ARCHIVE - VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

APRIL 9, 2019, Vestry Meeting Highlights 

Clergy: The Ministry Covenant for Fr. Isaias Ginson as our Priest-in-Charge has been renewed for another year. Fr. Isaias will be attending VTS for three weeks in June.

Outreach: The Vestry will give $250 to YouthCare Ministries to help with their start-up “chicken” project.

Events: Our Annual Picnic will be held June 9. The Jireh Church has been invited to participate.

Space Use: The Jireh Church will use the kitchen cabinets previously used by Hwakshin Church, and possibly the closet in the Narthex. The Jireh Church may also put a sign in front of the church (with Vestry approval).

Cemetery: The Cemetery Committee would like another row of rocks added to the bottom Tree of Life in the narthex. A new tractor is needed. Selling our existing John Deere tractor will provide about $4,000 toward a new one, for a final cost of about $18,000 including attachments. The committee will further investigate how to move the Greenbelt Trail off cemetery property.

Buildings and Grounds: We are getting estimates for three projects: redoing the parking lot and driveway; replacing the church roof; and putting a cross on the peak of the roof at the same time.  Regular Buildings and Grounds meetings will be scheduled.

VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
FROM THE MARCH 2019 MEETING

2019 Fall Fair, Sept. 21: As of this writing, we do not have a chairperson for this year’s Fair. The Vestry has decided to step out in faith and let it basically run itself. For the most part, it can be covered by parishioners with past experience in a particular area and are willing to step up to the plate once again. It has proven to be an amazing example of teamwork at its best! Fr. Isaias has a few outside groups who are interested in participating, which would bring in new attractions to give the Fair a boost. Lastly, the most important thing is spreading the word to everyone you know in Plainview and in surrounding communities so vendors will have plenty of customers. Of course, if someone reading this now would consider chairing the Fair, you will not be turned down!

Buildings & Grounds: Lighting—With thanks to Bill F., Brian H., Bob P. and Dan McG., we will be seeing more clearly in the Nave. The ceiling bulbs have been changed to halogens. Tower Replacement—Ken R. has been exploring a solution, for which we thank him! The parish survey showed that most agreed to not replacing the tower, which would cost well upward of $100,000. The existing structure remains on the lawn and must soon be disassembled and discarded. The cross with its metal base will be saved and hopefully used. Suggestions were made to place it atop the roof. The Diocese will be contacted for input, and if anyone knows of a reputable company that does this type of work, please contact Buildings & Grounds.

Cemetery: The palm crosses were placed on graves, with thanks to all who assisted. The annual memorial service will take place April 13. The importance of finding an admin assistant to help Debbie McG. was discussed. If any parishioner knows of someone they can recommend who is looking for a part-time office job, contact Kim for information about this position. 

Side Note: Just a reminder to assure parishioners that you are welcome to come and just sit in at a Vestry meeting. However, if you want to discuss something, please let Fr. Isaias or Kim know first.

 

APRIL - Highlights of the March 12, 2019 Meeting

Buildings & Grounds is always kept very busy! Dan McG. reported that the parking lot is in need of repair and resurfacing work, which is being looked into. Also, the entrance door to the office, which most probably is the original door, will soon be replaced by a steel security door. L&L Landscaping has presented us with an acceptable proposal, and will be doing regular maintenance of the church and rectory grounds. Their proposal also includes spring and fall clean up. Soledad will be our 2019 Diocesan Convention delegate in November; Barbara H. will again be the alternate. The 2018 Parochial Report has been completed and is now on file at the diocese.

 

MARCH - Highlights of the Feb. 13, 2019 Meeting

CEMETERY: We will be facing large expenses this year that are necessary in order to protect our investment in the cemetery. Additional grounds and administrative help are needed; the walkway needs repair and/or replacement; the aging tractor has to be replaced; and the planned Cremains Garden is going forward, though more involved than originally thought. 

Dining Side-by-Side: Having missed our February event because of bad weather, we will be preparing a meal for the next date, which is St. Patrick’s Day, March 17. We will be partnering with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church and so we are able to use their kitchen to prepare meals. Enjoying a meal with lots of company is what this wonderful program is all about. We are very excited to have the opportunity to bring the treat of conversation while enjoying a delicious meal to those who most of the time eat alone. 

Lenten Series: Fr. Isaias has prepared a Lenten Evening Prayer and Fellowship program, which includes a soup and bread supper. This will be held four Wednesdays in Lent, starting March 13 at 6:30 p.m. 

 

FEBRUARY - Highlights of the Jan. 8, 2019 Vestry Meeting

Cemetery Drainage Problem – the new drywells are in place and it is reported they are working very well and taking care of the excess water.

Chair Lift – was successfully installed on Jan. 8. Bob P., who did extensive research into companies that do this type of work, was on hand to oversee the installation.  It is a huge improvement and the Vestry is grateful to Bob for all he did.

Dining Side-by-Side – It has been decided to schedule this program for the third Sunday of every month so that it is a set date each month. Possibly partnering with Good Shepherd Lutheran Church is under discussion, and it is hoped we will be able to use their kitchen to prepare the meals because of their close proximity to the senior facility. Details will be worked out. 

Steeple Project – Ideas seem to be quite varied and so no decision has been made. A committee meeting must be held to decide what should be done, and then do it!

Annual Parish Picnic – Will be held June 9, which is the second Sunday in June this year.  

 

JANUARY 2019 -
Highlights of DEC. 11, 2018, Vestry Meeting

Annual Meeting, Dec. 2 – 34 were in attendance. The slate for two new Vestry members included Soledad J. and Dan McG., and with no nominations from the floor, they were confirmed by the congregation and welcomed into the Vestry. They replaced Terry P. and Maureen D. who were thanked for their devoted service while on the Vestry.

55^thAnniversary, Dec. 8 – Fr. Isaias extended thanks to all who helped with the anniversary in any way. Bishop Johncy Itty who presided at our celebration service generously gave the open plate collection back to St. Margaret’s. It was decided to put it toward the needs of the outreach families we will be helping this Christmas.  

Renewal Works Program – This Diocesan-sponsored program, with an emphasis on spirituality, is scheduled to start in January, with parishioners’ involvement. There will be four 90-minute workshops. Assigned topics will be addressed (one at each workshop) guided by a facilitator. Some computer usage will be included.  

Korean Congregation – We have welcomed Pastor Chung and his Korean congregation who will now be worshipping in our church throughout the coming year. Schedules will be worked out satisfactorily for everyone. 

Dining Side-by-Side – It was agreed that this is going forward and will involve the third Sunday of every month, with the next being scheduled for Jan. 20. Volunteers are requested to come forward to help serve, and also to dine with guests. This is a worthwhile and rewarding outreach program in which St. Margaret’s parishioners are strongly encouraged to volunteer for one or two Sundays during the year. 

** ARCHIVE FOR VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS **

NOVEMBER 13, 2018 VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Vestry Nominations – Proposed slate includes Soledad J. and Dan McG.. Alternative nominations by parishioners can be made prior to or at the Annual Meeting as well. Voting will take place at the Dec. 2nd annual meeting,  

Stewardship Drive – There has been a pretty good response to date; however, not all pledge cards have been returned. It is hoped that additional pledge cards will be forthcoming. 

Parish Christmas Party – Fr. Isaias and Christie will be hosting our annual party at the Rectory on Friday, Dec. 28. A notice with a sign-up sheet will be posted in the Narthex on the bulletin board.   

Diocesan Convention – Fr. Isaias, along with our Delegate Jacqui P. and Alternate Delegate Barbara H., will attend this year’s convention on Nov. 16-17. 

New Korean Congregation – A second Korean congregation is worshipping in our church during the month of November. It is a “pilot” month so as to determine if schedules can be worked out satisfactorily for everyone. If all needs can be met, then a formal agreement for one year will be signed. It will involve usage of our campus almost daily and their monthly donation will be helpful.

Dining Side-by-Side – The first outreach dinner event on Nov. 11 was successful, with about 45 dinner guests present. It fulfills a definite need in the Plainview senior community and plans will be made to continue doing this on a monthly basis. The dates will be determined far enough in advance so as to have time to gather enough volunteers for roughly two hours once a month to help serve and also to dine with guests. It is a worthwhile outreach program in which St. Margaret’s parishioners are encouraged to get involved.

OCTOBER 2018 VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

The Vestry is exploring a “Dining Side-by-Side”outreach program. This involves preparing food and bringing it to the seniors living in the Town of Oyster Bay housing located off Central Park Road in Plainview. We would not only prepare the food, but would mingle and eat with the guests for a side-by-side dinnertime experience. Then, any remaining food would be packaged up for the guests in attendance, giving them an additional meal or two to bring home. Parishioners are urged to consider becoming involved in this outreach ministry which may provide the only time some of these seniors actually get to dine with anyone week after week.

Bob P. presented information concerning the replacement of the Chair Lift in the Narthex. Thankfully, Bob has been researching this extensively as the existing chair lift is outdated and it’s very necessary that it is replaced.

Replacing the Steeple remains an open item, but it is not at all a forgotten project. It’s quite complicated and a meeting will be held shortly, in order to be able to make a presentation to all parishioners at the Annual Meeting on Dec. 2.

 

AUGUST 2018 VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

 (part of Aug. 18th Vestry Retreat)

• The Welcome Back Dinner was discussed and Saturday, Sept. 8 was picked as the best date to have this as the Fall Fair is being held on Sept. 22.
• In order to bring exposure to the surrounding communities concerning St. Margaret’s and its activities, the search for an appropriate double-sided LED sign will be stepped up.
• The 2019 Stewardship Drive will kick off in October.
• Christine K. is now officially the Cemetery Treasurer, having replaced Nancy R. who has retired after devoting many, many years of expert service in this capacity.
• The search continues for a Cemetery Administrative Assistant, which is a part-time paid staff position. Resumes are being reviewed as they are received.
• The need for establishing each month’s activity for the entire year was discussed. The plan is to decide on activities and dates for 2019, and have this information ready for publication in the January edition of The Message.

 

MAY 2018 VESTRY MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

GARDEN OF EATIN’: Karen H. reported that due to deer invading the garden and eating practically everything last year, and because there was no easy solution, all planting will now be done in containers located at parishioner’s homes. Once produce has ripened enough for eating, it will be delivered where needed. A notice was sent to the parish asking for volunteers to become container gardeners.

BUILDINGS & GROUNDS: Kim said many projects were discussed at a recent committee meeting. Bill F. and Brian H. replaced both the damaged window in the conference room and fascia board in the rectory. Church curb appeal was addressed and it was suggested that the landscaper that is used for the Cemetery be hired to take care of badly needed spring cleanup for the church lawn and garden beds. “Parishioner help” is not as available as in past years, so hiring people is becoming necessary. Other projects, such as the rectory kitchen, drywell for the water-drainage problem in the Cemetery and replace- ment of the tower are actively being addressed and/or are awaiting further estimates.

Miscellaneous 2018 Dates:
Church Picnic - June 3;
Vestry Retreat (tentative date) - Aug. 18;
Fall Fair - Sept. 22;
St. Margaret’s 55th Anniversary - Dec. 8