2014 Annual Report

151st Annual Meeting of Grace Church Parish

February 1, 2015

Grace Episcopal Church Amherst, Massachusetts

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2014 Annual Report Grace Church Parish

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. Order of Business 3 II. Membership 4 III. Minutes from the 150th Annual Meeting 7 IV. Rector’s Report 9 V. Vestry and Committee Reports 12 Senior Warden 12 Junior Warden 13 VI. Commission Reports 14 Liturgical Commisstion 14 Christian Formation and Education 17 Parish Life Commission 19 Pastoral Care Commission 21 Outreach Commission 22 Stewardship Commission 28 VII. Treasurer's Report 30 VIII. Membership Information 31

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151st Annual Meeting of Grace Episcopal Church Amherst, Massachusetts 1 February 2015

I. Order of Business

Celebration of the Holy Eucharist 9:30 AM in the Church Brunch prepared by the Brother Lawrence Guild 11:00 AM in the Parish Hall Call to Order Ann Homme, Clerk of the Vestry Acceptance of Roll of Membership Reception of Minutes of the 150th Annual Meeting, February 2, 2014 Recognition of Retiring Vestry Members The Rev. Thomas Synan, Rector Report of Nominating Committee and the Election of New Vestry Members and Delegates to Convention Report from the Stewardship Committee Bob Kelly, Chair Reception of Reports from Officers and Commissions Treasurer's Remarks Doug Adler, Treasurer St. Michael's Fellowship Doug Adler, Chair Remarks of Wardens and Rector Tom Dougherty, Senior Warden Jeffrey DeSantis, Junior Warden The Rev. Thomas Synan, Rector Other Business

Closing Hymn and Prayer

O God our Creator, make the door of our parish church wide enough to receive all who need human love, fellowship, and care, and narrow enough to shut out all envy, pride, and rancor. Here may the tempted find succor, and the sorrowing receive comfort; here may the careless be awakened to repentance, and the penitent be assured of thy mercy; and here may all thy children renew their strength in three and go on their way rejoicing; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

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II. Membership 2015

Hannah Abbott Ruth Black Margaret Clardy Erik Abdow Beatrice Blain Casey Clark Jessie Abdow Rachel Blain Amy Correia Luke Abdow Myrtle Blanchard Dennis Costa Steve Abdow Maria Jose Botelho Marie Coughlin Sue Abdow Sarah Boy Al Cram Doug Adler Clare Boyd Diane Cram Donald Allison Walker Boyd Patricia Creaser Edith Allison Paul Bracciotti Cecil Currin Gordon Anderson Dee Brace Lou Currin Jess Andrews Emily Breon Beth Damon Patricia Appelbaum Shirley Brodigan Dick Damon Sanjay Arwade Beth Brown Eva deBeauvais-Fairchild Chandler Atkinson Beth Brown Harry DeCuir Katherine Atkinson Gregory Brown Juanita DeCuir Rollin Atkinson Kerry Brown Lucas Denit Stephen Atkinson Nate Brown Lyle Denit Elihu Ayers Karen Bryant Jeffrey DeSantis Emma Ayers Don Buckloh Karen DeSantis Jim Ayers Jane Buckloh Carol Dick Andrea Baird Mary Bull Charlie Dickinson Chris Baker Beverly Bullock Denise Dineen Lynne Baker Michael Bullock John Dineen Nancy Baker Lynne Byler Patrick Dineen Tom Baker Wendryn Case Anne Ditzler Jeanne Balcom Kathleen Casey Nancy Dole John Balcom Veronica Chapman Jackie Dougherty Harry Beall Matthew Charity Kellen Dougherty Mary Beall Andrew Chase Kitty Dougherty Jane Beebe Calla Chase Stewart Dougherty Bill Berenson Lucy Chase Tom Dougherty Kay Berenson Annie Cheatham Elizabeth Duda Angelica Bernal-Barnes Mary Clancy Gillian Duda

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James Duda Alice Goodwin-Brown William Jordan Jessica Duda Harold Graves Ann Kearns Maria Dye Matthew Gregory Janine Kelly Christopher Enhstrom Susan Haff Patrick Kelly Jeannette Erard Susan Haight Robert Kelly, Jr. Michael Erard Amy Hampson Meg Kelsey Annie Etinde Tim Hampson Brown Kennedy Floribert Etinde Sarsh Hanke Gabriel Kennedy-Costa David Eve Robert Hawley Margaret King Tomi Eve Bennett Hazlip Asha Kinney Suzannah Fabing Dorothy Hertzfeld Laura Klock Kent Faerber Kurt Hertzfeld Lynn Klock Scottie Faerber Carlton Ho Elizabeth Klug Danielle Federa Jonathan Ho Stephanie Klug MJ Fowler Linda Ho Kelly Knight Mare Fox Marissa Ho Betty Lange Steve Fox Mary Hocken Isaac Lavine Ellie Fraser Chris Hoffmann Louise Lavine Christopher Freitag Anne Hoffmann Michael Lavine Ingeborg Freitag Meg Holladay Joan Leavitt Melanie Freitag William Holladay John Lemly Melissa Freitag Ann Holland Mark Leonas Rebecca Freitag Anne Homme Helen Leung Elizabeth French Adam Honig Michael Levchuk Barb Fukushima Pamela Hunter Sandra Lillydahl June Gaeke Michael Ireland Richard Lovelace Ann Gibson Ruthie Ireland Susan Lowance Joan Gibson Valerie Ivy Ann Lowell Obediah Gibson Deborah Jacque Bridget Lowry Sean Gilsdorf Ronald Jacque Fiona Lowry Kathy Glime John Jenkins Janet Lowry Gail Gnatek Miriam Jenkins Nancy Lowry Jack Goodell Tony Jewell Samuel Lowry George Goodwin Cheryl Johnston Susannah Lowry Mary Goodwin Kimberly Jones Lisa Lukas

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Sheila Mammen Eliot Moss DeAnne Riddle Arlene Manning Natalie Moss Chris Riddle William Manning Marilyn Munn John Robinson Sharon Marino Sandy Muspratt Lucy Robinson Elizabeth Markovits Julie Nelson Ken Rose Mark Marshall Dee Dee Niswonger Nancy Rose Mary Martini Gary Niswonger Marion Rosenau Betsy Mathews Jeffrey O'Brien Carolyn Samonds Philip Mathews Joan O'Brien Ken Samonds Mary Matthews Jale Okay Anne Scarff Stephanie Mattrey Virginia Oldershaw Susan Schaeffer Jack Mattrey Isolda Ortega-Bustamante Katie Schendel Libby Maxey Curtis Orvis Donna Schneider Trent Maxey Judy Orvis Steven Schneider Mary McCarthy Lynn Orvis Stephen Schreiber Catherine McGraw Lynn Orvis James Scott Ciara McKelvey Samuel Orvis Nina Scott Diane McKelvey Edward Owaki Amanda Seaman Stephen McKelvey Alice Ann Partridge Bill Seebeck Margo McMahon Douglas Peavey Harry Seelig Amelia Mead Jack Pemberton Sharon Seelig Jim Mead Jane Pemberton Phebe Sessions Kimberly Mead Fred Perry Anna Seterdahl Cathy Melhorn Janice Peterman Peter Seterdahl Katherine Messina Mark Peterman Sudha Setty Georgann Mirick Carlton Pickron Mary Ellen Shaughan Peter Mishkin Joseph Polino Eugene Sheehan Martha Mitchell Maria Polino Marcia Sheehan Jessica Mix Barrington Jane Price Megan Siudzinski Douglas Moore Catherine Quinlan Robert Siudzinski Janet Moore Jennifer Read Anna Smith Bette Moriarty Rick Read Betsy Canon Smith David Moriarty Melinda Reid Kevyn Smith Dorothy Morse Laura Ricard Randall Smith Tony Morse Robert Rice Peter Snedecor 6

James Soper Tom Synan Adam Wilburn Jennifer Soper Bernice Taylor Jeanette Wilburn Katherine Soper Warren Taylor Pam Wilkinson Cynthia Spell Charles Tebbetts David Williams Caroline Spurgin Janet Teng Kevin Williams Diana Spurgin Jane Thurber Marion Williams Kate Spurgin Patricia Tillona Thomas Williams Rich Spurgin Zina Tillona Cheryl Wilson Richard Spurgin David Todd Reynolds Winslow Sara Grace Spurgin Frederick Treyz Walter Winternitz Adrian Stair Mary H. Martin Wobst Sidney Treyz Bruce Stebbins Judith Wobst Sarah Turgeon Jeannette Stebbins Barbara Wogrin Aidan Van Cleef Mary Steigner Conrad Wogrin Bryce Van Cleef Sara Stelzner Ann Wood Tim Van Cleef Olivia Steven John Wood Ann Van Dyke John Stifler Suewilla Woodfork Betsy Van Dyke Pete Stoneham Arline Wright Paul Vasconcellos Brendan Sullivan Meg Wright Jane Wald Brooke Sullivan Helen Zatyrka Eve Webster Kyle Sullivan Enhua Zhang Ray Webster Barbara Sweitzer Chris Zobel Sharon Wells Janet Swem Katie Zobel Charlotte Westhead Paul Swem

III. Minutes of the 150th Annual Meeting of Grace Church Parish, Amherst, Massachusetts, convened on February 2, 2014. Accepted by Vestry, January 14, 2014

On February 2nd, after a wonderful brunch provided by the Brother Lawrence Guild, the 150th Annual Meeting of Grace Episcopal Church Parish, Amherst, MA was called to order by Clerk, Anne Homme.

Rev. Tom Synan, Rector, led us in prayer

A motion to accept the Roll of Membership was passed.

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A motion to accept the Minutes of the 149th Annual Meeting passed.

Senior Warden, Tom Dougherty recognized the Vestry members who were stepping down: Bob Kelly, Jane Pemberton, and Rebecca Freitag (youth).

Bob Kelly, from the Nominating Committee, presented the nominees for this year: to fill a vacant 2-year term ~ Tim Hampson, regular 3 year terms ~ Jane Buckloh and Charlie Tebbetts. Cornelia Sullivan will serve a 1 year term as youth representative. Diocesan Convention delegates are: Mary McCarthy, Janet Moore, Nancy Lowry (Vestry rep), Bridget Lowry (youth), and Margo McMahon, alternate. Officers terms are one year: Tom Dougherty, Senior Warden; Jeff DeSantis, Junior Warden; Doug Adler, Treasurer; Anne Homme, Clerk.

Zina Tillona made a motion to close the nominations, and direct the Clerk to cast one vote for the slate presented. The motion passed unanimously.

Bob Kelly presented the report from the Stewardship Committee: It’s been a challenging campaign. The goals are 215 households and $460,000. Presently 178 households have pledged $440,000. Thankfully, 96 households have increased their pledges from last year. Bob voiced a concern of the Stewardship Committee that our pledge revenue is not spread over a diverse group of parishioners. He reported that 38% of the revenue comes from 8% of pledges. This is a precarious position for the budget. He recommended plans be created to expand the revenue base.

A motion was made to accept the reports printed in the Annual Report be accepted as published. The motion was seconded and accepted.

Treasurer’s Report ~ Doug Adler:

1. The end of year 2013 Budget Report was reviewed. The key categories were: a. the pledge revenue; b. the interest income, and fundraisers revenue; c. the OCM (Offering for Common Mission -support to the Diocese) that is split between line 15 (reg. OCM) and line 52 (Outreach and Mission Commission OCM); d. the Building Renovation Fund and the allocation to the Restoration Fund Reserve; e. insurance (and the fact that we paid for 2013 in January and for 2014 in December resulting in the double expense for this transition billing year. f. All of which resulted in a small surplus of $1,926.

2. The Balance Sheet indicated that our assets increased by about $100,000 to $6,932,978, but that we had a pending obligation from the lawsuit of $850,000 that was settled on, and paid in January 2014; too late to be reflected in this report.

3. The financing of the lawsuit payoff was explained.

4. Doug presented the 2014 Operating Budget, approved by the Vestry on January 14, 2014. a. Revenues are budgeted at $554,000, an increase of only $17,000 from 2013. b. Expenses are budgeted at $553,980 for a surplus of $20. This included a staff and clergy raise of 2%.

5. Doug finished his remarks by thanking DeAnne Riddle, Rich Spurgin, the Finance Committee, Jaana Cutson (bookkeeper), and the counters for their dedicated and professional work.

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Next, Doug reported that there are now 49 members of the Saint Michael’s Fellowship. This is a group of people who have notified us that they have left legacies in their wills for the Church. If you would like more information on this, please contact Doug or Kent Faerber.

Senior Warden’s Report ~ Tom Dougherty Tom referred to his report in the Annual Report. He expressed his gratitude to all who contribute to the life of Grace Church ~ making it a lively and healthy parish.

Junior Warden’s Report ~ Jeff DeSantis Jeff referred to his report in the Annual Report and particularly thanked all the people who helped with the Chapel renovations. It is now a holy place for contemplation, meditation and services. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In the weeks before the Annual Meeting, parishioners were given an opportunity to submit questions that would be answered at the meeting. a. Will there be a capital campaign in the near future? ~ Tom S. said there are no plans right now. He said that with good budget management, we would be fine for the next few years. b. Jeff DeSantis answered a question about the Parke House ~ it needs a lot of work: insulation, new windows and general refurbishing. c. Repairs and renovations to the kitchen is a priority. The Town inspectors have been very strict in their requirements. There is a group of people who will help with plans and project estimates. d. Tom S. answered a question about discerning future ministries. He talked about the workings of the Holy Spirit. Some changes will come gradually; some abruptly, but we’re all in it together. The Vestry decides on proposed new ministries. e. A question about a new associate rector was asked. Tom S. reported that it was an ongoing process, but of higher priority was to fill the office administrator’s position since Annie has given her notice to leave in early March. f. There was a request to put ceiling fans in the Sanctuary and the Connector. Jeff will follow- up. g. There was a discussion about having the Sanctuary open during the week. The problem is, that with Sanctuary open, the rest of the campus is open (except the Old Rectory) which is problematic. Access to the Chapel needs to be looked into.

Tom S. closed the meeting with a prayer.

Respectfully submitted, Anne Homme, Clerk

IV. Rector’s Sermon and Address February 1, 2015

Now concerning food sacrificed to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. Anyone who claims to know something does not yet have the necessary knowledge; but anyone who loves God is known by him. Today is our annual meeting. (Acts 2:1) They were all together in one place.

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Immediately following this service, we will dine on a scrumptious feast, prepared by our dedicated Brother Lawrence Guild. (Matt 6:11) Give us this day our daily bread! We’re collecting soup cans for the Survival Center for our (hopefully first annual) Souper Bowl Sunday Food Drive. (Matt 25:34-35) Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food. And of course, later today is our nation’s annual High Holy Feast Day, which many will partake in – The Super Bowl – an event second only to Thanksgiving in terms of food consumption. Did you know that it is estimated that today Americans will consume over 80 million avocados, over 1 billion chicken wings, 11 million pounds of chips, 325 million gallons of beer, and $2.4 million worth of soda? To this, scripture is silent or, more likely, not well pleased. Given such an emphasis on food and the likelihood of some idol worship later today (Go Patriots!), St. Paul’s advice to the Corinthians on the eating of meat that was sacrificed to idols somehow seems rather appropriate. Among Paul’s letters, this is one of my favorite passages. Why? Because we actually get a glimpse into Paul’s head – his thought process, his sense of what’s important. He’s addressing a concern of the Corinthians – a concern that is not necessarily a concern of ours today (eating food from a pagan sacrifice) – that’s more practical than theological. The issue raised was whether the Corinthian Christian community needed to have its own butcher shops. Temples served many purposes in the ancient world. Besides being a place of worship, they were also the local meat market or at a minimum the source of most of the meat sold in one’s area. Animals were sacrificed in pagan rituals with portions offered to gods and the leftovers were sold to the public. It was pretty much a given that any meat bought, sold, or served in Corinth came from a pagan temple. That burger you’re eating was first offered to Zeus. The free hotdogs at the Corinthian Fourth of July picnic came from the local temple. The question for Paul was whether or not such meat was tainted? Some Corinthian Christians had no problem eating such meat. They considered it harmless. They thought it through; they didn’t believe in the gods; they knew there’s only one God; any pagan ritual, therefore, was harmless. Others, however, were unsure. They were uncomfortable eating something that had been sacrificed to a pagan god. By consuming this meat, were they somehow participating in pagan religious rites? Were they somehow contaminating themselves? Was this inappropriate? “Paul, I feel uncomfortable letting my children eat the hotdogs at the county fair, but I’m also concerned that people will think we’re unpatriotic or subversive if we don’t partake. What should I do?” Those who ate without a guilty conscience considered themselves smarter and wiser, thought the others were foolish, and probably made fun of them. There’s Julia eating her pious vegetables! Ha! Ha! She’s so superstitious, she won’t let her children eat a simple hotdog. The Corinthians wanted to know who was right. Jewish communities had their own butchers and were free of this problem. Should they do the same? Paul had a clear understanding of the presence of demons in the world, which would include pagan deities. There were lots of them; they were invisible; and they could cause trouble, but Paul also had a clear understanding that they were not on par with God. There was only one God. To a certain extent Paul’s demonology is analogous to our understanding of germs today. They too are everywhere; they’re invisible; and yes, they can cause trouble, but no one thinks of them as God.

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Paul’s beliefs were more aligned with those who were eating meat. For him, it doesn’t matter that meat was dedicated to a pagan god. There is no insult to the one true God. Thus, there is no need for special butcher shops. However, for Paul, affirming the meat-eaters is not the end of the discussion. Yes, my sisters and brothers in Amherst, global center of education and learning, believe it or not: being correct in one’s thinking, having right knowledge is not what was most important for Paul. The right answer is not the final answer. Individuality, self-autonomy, the right of the individual to do whatever he or she pleases is not the centerpiece of Paul’s beliefs. For Paul, Christians are first and foremost members of a community – people who are joined together, like a living organism, into the Body of Christ – and our actions have an effect on the rest of the community. Knowing that eating meat sacrificed to a god is harmless should not take precedence without consideration for how eating meat might affect the community. Knowledge is good, but love for one another is even better. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. Anyone who claims to know something does not yet have the necessary knowledge; but anyone who loves God is known by him. For Paul, love is more important than knowledge or being correct. True love is a love manifested through acts and actions. It’s not romantic or simply having warm fuzzy thoughts. True love is about unity not uniformity. It doesn’t mean that everyone is of the same mind or that everybody necessarily likes everybody else or everybody has to do the same things. True love is about putting others first, rather than just thinking about ourselves. So, Julia doesn’t eat meat. Respect her decision. Don’t mock her. Have a conversation with her, not a debate. Have some vegetables with her. Bring a vegetarian dish to the next gathering. Be concerned, be considerate for one another. Imagine the world, if we all conducted ourselves this way. Well, I don’t have to imagine too hard or for too long, because this kind of love is so prevalent at Grace Church – a true and genuine spirit. I have been at many churches and parishes, many of them fine and good, but there is something absolutely magical about Grace Church – and I don’t use that word often. We are here in unity not uniformity. There is no creedal statement or party line that you must agree to, to be a part of this community. Be who you are; think what you will. We are on a journey together. Eat meat; be a vegetarian; be a vegan. Let’s be honest – the reason we are here is out of genuine love – love of God, love for one another, and yes, love for Grace Church. That’s the love St. Paul was talking about in today’s lesson. So much of what goes on here is representative of our love. Our worship is truly special. I don’t know what happens, but many a Sunday by the end of the service I am transported, transformed, moved. Beth can testify to this. Many a Sunday night I’ll send an email complimenting her on the music, letting her know I am still high from the morning. My installation last year was phenomenal and was the work of so many of you. Amherst College Madrigal Singers, UMass brass, Hampshire College dancers, and your joy, support, and love: it doesn’t get better than that. Oh yes, it does. Who can forget Holy Week and Easter, or Pentecost Sunday, the languages heard, and the music from around the globe? Or All Saints Sunday – icons in procession and saints galore – St. Brigid of Sweden with ski poles, St. Michael and his wings. How about our Gospel Sunday – the Horace Boyer mass setting and the Amherst College Gospel Choir. And let’s not forget the reintroduction of Evensong on Friday evenings and the beauty of contemplative prayer and silence. Our worship is not ho hum or garden variety. It is unique

11 and it is a complete act of love – love on the part the acolytes, altar guild, ushers, choirs, lectors, and all of you who make the spirit of God manifest, whenever we gather. And what about our children and youth ministries? Again, an act of pure love. Purple and green and red and white are the colors of the year. Purple and green and red and white remind us of the light. That song from our Sunday School reminds me of a lot more. I am reminded of the dedication and faithfulness of our Sunday School teachers, and all who work with our children and young people. I was slain in the spirit at this month’s Liturgy in the Chapel when parents and adults raised their hands when I asked the children who has been caught by Christ. And how about the Christmas pageant with its stars, angels, shepherds, three king soloists, chicken, rabbit, and the holy goat. I’ve said it before and I want to say it again here and now that Grace Church, in the Town of Amherst, in the year of Our Lord 2015, has the nicest young people I have ever met in all my years of ordained ministry. I am so pleased you, the young folks, are here. This is your church as much as it is anybody else’s and don’t ever let anyone tell you otherwise. You are not the future of the Church; you’re the present, the here and now. Many blessings to you; and praises to Sarah Dunn, to everyone who works with our young people, to parents, and to everyone else who somehow contributes to this blessed act of love. Other acts of love are found in our outreach, pastoral/mutual care, and hospitality. This past year, we supplied snacks for a summer camp program, thousands of diapers for the Survival Center, medical supplies for the Ebola crisis in Africa, school supplies and backpacks for children going back to school, and Christmas gifts for families in need. We continue to support our missions in Haiti and Ramallah, and we distributed almost $20000 to deserving groups and agencies both near and far away. Our Mutual Care Team kept tabs on parishioners, providing meals, rides, and other forms of simple kindness; and Lay Eucharistic Visitors routinely shared Holy Communion with those who could not make it to church. Our hospitality is worthy of entertaining angels. Every Sunday, we offer the gift of food, conversation, and community via our coffee hour. Newcomers are lavishly dined and with our special Funeral Ministry those who mourn are comforted. And thank you to Greening Grace and our Peace Fellowship for raising awareness and bearing a prophetic witness. In so many ways, you show true love and concern for one another and for others. I could go on and on; there is so much love here at Grace Church. We have our work cut out for us, but with the help of God, anything is possible. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. May the love Of God and the love of Christ which has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold us in the service of Christ and his kingdom. Amen.

The Rev. Tom Synan

V. Vestry Reports

Senior Warden: What a long wonderful trip this has been; one year Vestry member, 6 years as your Senior Warden. I have tried to serve Grace Church well. I’d like to thank the parish for everyone’s support and understanding these past five years. This past year has been a pleasure working with Tom Synan who is not a new Rector anymore. He brings a fresh perspective on the many happenings at Grace Church that is exciting to see now, and will be exciting to see in the years to come.

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The members of the Executive Committee , Anne Homme, Doug Adler and Jeffrey DeSantis have been inspirational and a joy to serve with. This past year Anne Homme, with help from Jane Buckloh, led a very successful Organ Restoration Campaign. Jeffrey Desantis has had his hands full inspecting every nook and cranny around our Church Campus this past year, read his report and you’ll be amazed at what he’s been able to accomplish. Doug Adler has given detailed reports on our financial health with help from DeAnne Riddle and Rich Spurgin at every Vestry meeting. Doug served as treasurer with great passion for the job. Those on the Vestry were fortunate to witness his wonderful attention to detail and the care he took to relay the budget and financial soundness of the parish every month. Doug recently co- chaired with Marion Rosenau to review and update to our Personnel Policy. With help from Katie Schendel and Bob Kelly, and with consultation from Susan Olben and Steve Abdow at the diocesan, we now have an updated policy for our wonderful staff here at Grace. Some of my more memorable thoughts about my tenure as Senior Warden were: Serving with interim Rector Randy Wilburn was wow…. What a calling he has for God’s work! To do such a difficult job of serving different churches that are in the middle of a transition is a big challenge. He does this with grace, skill, incredible tact and understanding. Grace Church was so lucky to have such an effective interim and I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely with him. Randy and his wife Karen are truly special people. Our beloved Rob Hirschfeld,, now Bishop of New Hampshire encouraged me to join the Vestry and then become Grace Church’s Senior Warden. For that I am grateful because I enjoyed three years with another dedicated Executive Committee: Kathy Glime as Junior Warden, Ann Lowell Clerk, and Tom Baker as Treasurer. It was rewarding to serve with such a great team. I miss Rob (though I speak with him from time to time) and his family and I’m grateful to the Profile and Search Committee for bring us another wonderful Rector in Tom Synan Our dealings with AR Green were difficult and uncomfortable. But in the end, we have a beautiful facility that inspires others to come and worship with us. Many thanks to Donny Allison for all his help through that difficult time. As you can see by all the names, no one can do the Senior Warden’s job alone. It takes a whole church community to make Grace the wonderful place that it is. And it takes many dedicated people to make it all happen. I want to thank every one of you, for supporting and helping me through these wonderful years. God Bless.

Tom Dougherty

Junior Warden: The year started with the installation of a custom manufactured window for the Lower Connector that was shot out in late 2013. So the Lower Connector looks as good as new now. The usual third Saturday parish work day was alive by not well, there were only 2-3 people that showed up and it was difficult to finish tasks on that day. The tasks were then carried into an evening during the week. We need more people to come to make the tasks go faster, so some new marketing will take place in the spring to recruit more people. The winter left us with some damage to the front fascia board on the kitchen facing Spring Street. The damage was repaired and at the same time the “squirrel holes” were repaired by putting up metal sheets so the squirrels could not be chew through any longer.

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To enhance the newly redone Chapel all the old Plexiglas (was very cloudily) was removed and new Plexiglas was installed and gave the Chapel a new brightness. To continue our “brightness” campaign the front doors of the Church which were severely weather beaten where completely redone. The doors were both machine and hand sanded, wiped down with tack rags and then four coats of marine varnish were put on to get the natural look of the wood back. The big project for the year was the regrouting of the outside surfaces of the Bell Tower of the Church. The actual project was to regrout the inside of the Bell Tower, however, upon inspection water and numerous cracks were found. The project took three weeks, a 120 foot lift to reach the spiral and working with the Town to get a building permit contractor approval as well as parking permits to block off spaces in front and on the side of the Church. The last project of the year was to switch the upstairs Nursery with the library located in the Parker Room and establish some fixed hours of operation for the Nursery on Sundays. In addition there was a need to find space for the Sunday bible study class and that was accomplished by using the copy room as a dual purpose room. It took some changes here and there but all has worked out well.

Jeffrey DeSantis, Junior Warden

VI. Commission Reports

LITURGICAL COMMISSION

Altar Guild: At the end of September, 2014, Janet Teng resigned as Altar Guild Director, a position she held for 13 years. As no-one wished to assume that position, Janet was made Director Emerita in order to maintain overall coordination. Lou Currin remains as Head of Flower Guild. Members of the Altar Guild volunteered to take on specific tasks. Georgann Mirick is ordering supplies in addition to her usual job of Scheduling. Cindy Spell provides maintenance of all the equipment in the two sacristies, Church and Chapel. Various members have taken on the preparation for the seasonal Feasts of the Church in addition to their regular duties.

Veronica Chapman, Lou Currin, and Sheila Mammen – Advent Edward Owaki, Janet Teng – Christmas Sheila Mammen, Betsy and Phil Mathews – Lent Sue Abdow, Sheila Mammen – Palm Sunday Chris Hoffmann – Tenebrae Jane Buckloh, M.J. Fowler – Maundy Thursday Janet Teng – Good Friday Gail Gnatek, Sheila Mammen – The Great Vigil and Easter Sunday M.J. Fowler – Pentecost Other members who prepare for services, do laundry or arrange flowers: Jess Andrews, Tom Baker, Jane Beebe, Marie Coughlin, Sarsh Hanke, Mary Hocken, Brown Kennedy, Laura Klock, Louise Lavine, Ann Lewin (whom we welcome as a new member this year),Lisa Lukas, Jim Mead, Kevyn Smith. Louise Lavine and Meghan Siudzinski take charge of preparing the Chapel for the monthly service, presently known as Liturgy in the Round.

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We would also like to take the opportunity to thank David Ulen, the Sexton, for all his cheerful assistance during the years. Janet Teng

Acolytes: Acolytes assist in all aspects of the liturgical life at Grace Church; they also may serve as Lay Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors as they express interest in expanding their liturgical roles. Junior acolytes (younger than 8) participate in workdays and assist as crucifers to lead the food basket procession to the altar at the Offertory and serve in the monthly Liturgy in the Round services in the Chapel. Acolytes work with Janet Teng and the Altar Guild in many aspects of liturgical preparation such as helping the altar guild polish the brass before Christmas and Easter, and assisting in preparing the sanctuary for Advent and Palm Sunday. This year one of the senior acolytes (Bridget Lowry) was a youth delegate to the Diocesan Convention and another (Cornelia Sullivan) was the youth member of the Vestry. Rebecca Freitag earned her Girl Scout Gold Award by designing two fliers on being an Lay Eucharist Visitor, built two wooden table crosses for use during LEV visits, and regularly accompanied a LEV to distribute Communion in a nursing home. All available acolytes participated in Tom Synan’s installation as our new rector. Acolytes and their families had a grand day of bowling in March. A small group met with Tom Synan in November and others will be meeting with him in the new year. Chris Freitag, Kent Faerber, Kevyn Smith, Ruthie and Michael Ireland, Katie and Chris Zobel, Sarah Dunn, and assorted senior servers helped shepherd acolytes on Sunday mornings. Catherine Quinlan and Sharon Marino have assisted with the food basket procession. Veronica Chapman has done wonders washing acolyte vestments, removing wine, wax, and other assorted grime that are the badges of the trade; we start each week with a rack of vestments carefully arranged by size and all neatly pressed. Tom Lowry repairs wooden crosses and banner poles. Graduating acolytes this year were Elizabeth Baker and Rebecca Freitag. New to the acolyte crew in 2014 were Tyler Marino, Amory Maxey, Alpha Etinde, Catie Spence, and Francesca Polino. The acolytes learn quickly and take their liturgical jobs seriously. They are wonderful about helping each other out, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to work with this wonderful group of young people. Acolytes by grade (Current): 12: Cornelia Sullivan,* Bridget Lowry,*#‡ Sophie Williams. 11: None! 10: Lydia Anderson,# Ben Gilsdorf,# Casandra Moss,# Alex Perry, Thomas Perry, Archie Velasquez, Noah Zobel. 9: Wade Atkinson, MacKenzie Baird, Georgie Brown, Katie Brown, Caleb Ireland, Emma Wilburn, Isobel Williams, Sydney Zobel. 8: Gordy Anderson, Hillary Atkinson, Walter Tebbetts. 7: Ian Baird, Evan Perry, Aidan Wilburn. Elementary: Liam Brown, Max Brown, Gabriel Davila-Bustamante, Charlotte Kelly, Quinn Hampson, Emily Ireland, Anna Gilsdorf, Lucy Smith, Fox Williams, Francesca Polino, Tyler Marino, Amory Maxey, Alpha Etinde, Catie Spence. Visiting acolytes: Mollie Jenkins (Minnesota), Andrew Wright (California). * Lay Eucharistic Minister # Lector ‡ Convention Delegate

Nancy Lowry

Music: The Grace Church music program continued to thrive in 2014. We welcomed several new members to the choir over the course of the year and our total roster now stands at 29 members! Looks like we may need more chairs and more robes as we move forward…

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The choir continues its dedicated service of singing for 10:30 Sunday morning services, plus special services such as Advent Lessons & Carols and Christmas Eve, and Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday. Choir members give of their time and talent for at least 4 hours every week for regular Sunday services; during holiday seasons, that weekly number can climb to 10 or more hours of service in certain busy weeks. I continue to rejoice in their enthusiasm and love for the music we do together, and for the wonderful and spirited singing they give to us all. In addition, the choir premiered four new compositions this year by our organist, Dick Damon, and has been asked by the Diocese to present a concert in the Cathedral this coming May – this is a tremendous honor. We are so very blessed to have such dedicated, talented and loving musical volunteers who make music come alive at Grace – my great thanks to you all! A big musical event for 2014 was Tom Synan’s Service of Induction as Rector of Grace Church in late February. We had brass players from UMASS, dancers from Hampshire College and the Amherst College Madrigal group, all joining with the choir and organ to make a very joyful noise on this most wonderful occasion. I noted some unfamiliar (and wonderful) voices in the congregation – many of Tom’s parishioners from NYC’s Church of the Heavenly Rest had come to the service to celebrate him, and their voices contributed greatly to the truly “joyful noise!” We were delighted to welcome the Amherst College Gospel Choir to sing for us in mid- November; the service incorporated two anthems by them, as well as service music by Horace Clarence Boyer – we hope to make this an annual collaboration for a regular “Grace Gospel Service.” My thanks to Dick for his always-wonderful organisting (even when his right thumb was broken and he had to play Advent Lessons & Carols plus Christmas Eve services in a cast!), and for his great skill as a composer, which blesses us regularly with newly-written music not heard anywhere but at Grace. And thanks also to Mary Hocken for her devoted and jubilant work with our children – the Angel Choir is such a great joy for our congregation. I won’t soon forget the glee on the children’s faces on Christmas Eve, as they sang and then played “Joy to the World” on kazoos -- it might be a first at any church! Lastly, thanks so much to Tom, the Vestry, and to our parishioners for such loving support and enthusiasm for the musical activities at Grace. I am so grateful for the opportunity to glorify God with music in this wonderful place.

Beth Damon, Director of Music

Angel Choir: The Angel Choir began in June 2000, for children from 3 and up. The choir has continued to sing the Introit at the 10:30 service about once a month during the year. Dick Damon composed a delightful new piece for the anthem at the 4 pm Christmas Eve service, “Joy to the World”. The whole pageant cast sang it complete with kazoos for one verse. The membership varies from 7 to 25. Sometimes the teenagers join in which is a delight. My thanks to all parents for making it possible to have a children’s choir at Grace Church, and of course my heartfelt thanks to Dick Damon for his endless patience and cooperation in accompanying the choir. It is such a pleasure and privilege to be able to make music with these children.

Mary Hocken

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Discernment Committee: Formerly known as the Committee for Seminarian Oversight, the Parish Discernment Committee was dormant the past two years. This Vestry committee evolved in the mid-90s to assess and to support candidates for ordination. Our responsibility extends throughout the process—from the time that an aspirant first approaches the Rector through the canonical stages of postulancy and candidacy for Holy Orders. In recent years we have met with particular candidates about their calls to ordained ministry and made recommendations to the Rector and Vestry, who in turn forwarded their candidacies to the Diocese. (Jane Beebe is currently completing her studies at Andover-Newton Theological School.) We have considered ways to invite local communicants—especially college and even high school students—to consider possible church vocations. And we recommit to the parish’s collective role: an individual’s calling to Holy Orders must be heard also “by the gathered Body of Christ where one’s identity in Christ has been nourished, challenged, sustained, and shaped.” If you are interested in the Committee’s work, please speak with Tom Synan.

The Committee:  works with those discerning a vocation to the ordained ministry,  maintains liaison between Vestry and candidates during their training, and  assists Vestry in certifying candidates to the Diocesan Commission on Ministry.

John Lemly, Chair

CHRISTIAN FORMATION & EDUCATION - ADULT 2015 Members: The Rev. Tom Synan, Betsy Matthews, James Mead, Eve Webster (chair as of September 2014). Melinda Williams, though no longer a member of our parish, continues to design our brochures, which are distributed twice a year in the Amherst Bulletin.

Contemplative Bible Reflection, led by Steve Abdow and Annie Scarff, meets every Monday (except holidays) in the Library from 5:30-6:30 pm. Sunday morning Prayerful Bible Study meets in the Meeting/Copy room from 9:20-10:10 am to read aloud and prayerfully discuss the morning’s Gospel passage. In 2014, the committee hosted many popular programs on Wednesday evenings in the Connector, from 7:00-8:30pm. • “Inquirers Class”, a 7-week series entitled “Everything you’ve always wanted to know about the Episcopal Church, but were too pious to ask.” • Adult Education, preceded by a simple supper of soup and bread, at 6:15p.m; then program at 7:00 p.m. As our Lenten journey began, we had an opportunity to assess our lives, to clarify our values and priorities, and to choose spiritual practices that help us to live more faithfully in the world. • “New Life, Later in Life (It’s a Whole New Ballgame!)” led by Anne Homme, the Rev’d Adrian Stair, and Bruce Stebbins. • Robert Jonas and Shambhala Buddhist teacher, Tony Walker showed the movie, "Jesus & Buddha: Practicing Across Traditions", with a group discussion that followed. • World War I poets - presented by the Rev. Raymond Webster. • “The Spider in the Tree”, a novel based on the life of Jonathan Edwards, presented by author, Susan Stinson.

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• “Keeping Faith at the End of Life” presented by Ben Tousley, chaplain, and staff members at Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice. • A five-part Confirmation and Inquirers series led by the Rev. Thomas Synan. • A program on the Sistine Chapel presented by Sandy Lillydahl. • “Sundays in America : a Yearlong Road Trip in Search of Christian Faith” , a book presentation by author Suzanne Stremper Shea. 2015 is promising to be an even more dynamic year! The Committee welcomes recommendations and ideas, as well as new committee members.

Eve Webster, Chair

CHRISTIAN FORMATION AND EDUCATION COMMISSION - CHILDREN & YOUTH

Children: Come upstairs in the Park Building most Sunday mornings, and you will find a vibrant atmosphere of young people doing many things. Singing and prayer are always part of the morning as well as numerous hands-on opportunities. Our younger children are divided into 2 Atrium classrooms this year. Atriums 1 and 2 are joined this year because of the low number of children in those age groups. This year the class includes preschool through grade 2. Teachers are Janine Kelly, Jeanette Wilburn and Cathy Quinlan. Atrium 3 includes grades 3 and 4, and is taught by Louise Lavine, with Janet Moore helping. These older children are studying early pre-Jewish history as a foundation for going on to Jewish history and Christianity. Parents are always welcome to visit. Our dedicated teachers have many years of experience, and would love to include more children in their classes. Janet Moore

Youth: With the conclusion of 2014, both the Rite-13 and the J2A program are in full swing! This past July five members of the J2A group were in attendance at the Episcopal Youth Event in Philadelphia. This trip was the first representation of youth from Western Massachusetts at EYE! It was a time for our youth to meet young Episcopalians from across the country, to worship together, and to continue to build Christian community. There have been many positive responses from the youth in regards to this event and hope that there will be another group of youth from the diocese present at the next Episcopal Youth Event. This fall there was a lot of energy around both programs with our kickoff pizza lunch in September for the youth and their families being well attended, as well as regular attendance for Rite-13 and J2A at both Sunday school and Youth Group meetings. This enthusiasm has resounded throughout the parish with events such as our All Saints’ parade as well as a beautiful Christmas pageant.

Also, this year has been a time of time of fundraising for and anticipation of the J2A pilgrimage to New Orleans in July 2015. So far the J2A youth have been successful in several fundraising efforts — baking cookies, gardening, raking leaves, cleaning out basements, etc. And their next big fundraising event is fast approaching. On the evening of Tuesday, February 17th, the youth will be holding a Mardi Gras celebration in the New Orleans style. Come ready for good food, good fun, and good music! 18

In regards to Rite-13, there has been a renewed sense of commitment from the youth. Whereas in 2013 there were not regular Sunday meetings of the Rite-13, this fall we have had biweekly youth group meetings for both our Rite-13 and J2A groups. Some Rite-13 youth have even expressed the desire for weekly youth group meetings! The format of these Sunday evenings is that each group has their separate time for community, but all come together for a pizza dinner as a bridge between the two meetings, allowing time for particular learning for each age group but also increasing unity within the youth program at Grace.

Looking towards the future, 2015 is going to be an amazing year for the youth of this parish! From a pilgrimage, to a Youth Sunday, to preparation for confirmation, this year is going to be exciting for both groups! And we will also graduate these two cohorts and bring in a new cohort as well! Amazing things are happening in the youth program here at Grace. But none of this would be possible without the help of many individuals. First of all a big thank you to my fellow teachers — to Trent Maxey and Karen Desantis for putting up with my last minute lesson plans — and to Merry Gibbons, for putting up with my scattered nature late on Sunday evenings and for her vibrant personality that brings so much creativity to youth meetings. Second, thank you to the parents — for putting up with carpooling, holiday fundraisers, and for taking over the Christmas pageant and making it something truly special. And thank you to the youth, you all make me excited to drive up here at the crack of dawn on a Sunday morning. Your enthusiasm and commitment to the Gospel will be crucial to the Church in the years to come.

The Rev. Deacon Sarah Dunn

PARISH LIFE COMMISSION

The mission of the Parish Life Commission is to spread the joy of Christian fellowship and hospitality throughout Grace Church and the larger community. Many committees and events strive to maintain a strong, social connection throughout our membership. We participated in these events of fellowship:

Our Annual Meeting, preceded by the BLG Brunch

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

Newcomers Lunch and Dinner with the Rector

A farewell reception for Hilary Bogert-Winkler

The annual Pentecost Picnic

The annual St. Nicholas Bazaar

Our Parish Life committees continue to serve our members in many important ways. The Hospitality Committee provides coffee hours after our services, schedules ushers, and welcomes newcomers. The Brother Lawrence Guild provides delicious cuisine at various gatherings. The Funeral Committee provides support in planning and executing funeral receptions. The St. Nicolas Bazaar Committee not only provides a community event but also raises money that is crucial for our budget. The Garden Ministry continues to maintain our gardens and to address areas of need. The latest project was the design and planting of the areas in front of the church and old rectory.

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The Parish Life Commission would like to thank all these committees for their continuing donation of their time and talents. We would like to encourage all to volunteer for one of these groups for fellowship and to share responsibility for supporting Grace’s programs and projects.

Janine Kelly and Louise Lavine, Co-Chairs

Funeral Reception Committee: The mission of Grace Church's Funeral Reception Committee (FRC) is to provide hospitality as desired to those in our church who are bereaved and the families of deceased church members. We work in coordination with the rector, parish administrator and any local caterers, florists, funeral directors, etc. with whom the bereaved family has made arrangements. 2014 saw us called to serve on just four occasions: the services for Kurt Evan Grillo (4/6), Dorothy Ives (9/20), Zella Harrington (9/23), and Richard Sweitzer (11/30). The FRC needs new volunteers. The FRC usually (but not always) operates on short notice, and if your schedule allows you any flexibility to be available for a few hours for even just one or two receptions per year, PLEASE consider joining our committee. It is a great group of people to work with, and a very important part of the ministrations of our church. Please join us, we need YOU! Respectfully submitted, Diana Spurgin, chair for FRC members: Sarsh Hanke, Lucy Robinson, Pam Wilkinson, Jane and George Pemberton, Reynolds Winslow, Mary Hocken, Cathy Quinlan, Sara Stelzner, Anne Lowell, Mary Steigner, Anne Homme, Sheila Mammen, Jeannette Stebbins and Karen DeSantis

Saint Nicholas Bazaar: The St. Nicholas Bazaar was a great success, for the fellowship we shared as well as the money raised for the parish. We netted about $10,000, thanks to the contributions of time, talent and treasure from our generous congregation. This was truly a parish-wide event, with over 65 people helping before, during and after the bazaar, not including all who came and shopped! We were very pleased to have some new parishioners in that number. Every individual’s contribution was greatly appreciated. We would like to especially thank David Ulen and Angela Battle for all they do for the bazaar. A few more special thanks: to Charlotte Westhead, William Jordan, Ken and Carolyn Samonds, and Ann Holland for much time and effort sorting and pricing donations; to the table heads for setting up and running their tables - Ken and Carolyn Samonds, Hannah Abbott, The Zobel family, Gillian Duda, MJ Fowler, Ann Lowell and Ann Kearns, Betsy Mathews and Jessica Mix-Barrington, Brooke Sullivan, Katie Schendel, Jeff DeSantis, Ann Holland, Emily Randall, Louise Lavine and Catherine Quinlan; to Kitty Dougherty for her financial management; to Dick Damon and Meg Kelsey-Wright for the gift of music; to Reynolds Winslow and Steve Atkinson for standing in for the bazaar’s namesake; to the Brother Lawrence Guild for a tasty lunch; and to Doug Adler and Tom Dougherty for being the last to leave after helping to clean up. The bazaar couldn’t happen without so many doing so much – thank you all! Joan O’Brien, co-chair with Charlotte Westhead

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Garden Ministry: A stalwart team of gardeners comprises the Garden Ministry charged with maintaining the landscape plantings at Grace Church. Funding comes primarily from an annual Memorial Day Weekend sale of plants donated by parishioners. During 2014 we replaced evergreen and deciduous shrubs in front of the Old Rectory and also planted new low evergreens beside the stairs to the Connector. In addition in the fall, hundreds of daffodils and crocuses were planted in the Garth. Our main regular work was to weed, mulch, prune and fertilize the plantings in the Garth including annuals under the Parish Hall window. In the future, we plan to use more perennials in that area to reduce costs. We also hope to engage the Sunday School children in enhancing the butterfly garden near the choir room. Meanwhile we also work on the plantings along the Parish Walkway and Mary Hocken and Nancy Lowry have done a wonderful job restoring the Goodwin Garden along Spring Street. Michael Erard coordinates the Columbarium Garden using funds from the Columbarium Committee. We welcome new members to the Garden Ministry. An old poem reads: “The kiss of the sun for pardon, The song of the birds for mirth, One is nearer God’s heart in a garden Than anywhere else on earth.” Come join us in the garden. Please contact Sherry Wilson to volunteer a little bit of time.

The Garden Ministry, Sherry Wilson, Chair

PASTORAL CARE COMMISSION The Pastoral Care Commission at Grace Church is a group of ministries offering support and assistance to parishioners and their families who need some extra help during a crisis, illness, loss or other circumstance. The Pastoral Care Commission is now coordinated by Jeannette Stebbins, after a long time being guided by Kevyn Smith. We will miss the touch Kevyn made with so many in our parish. She is well loved! Mary Ellen Shaughan who coordinated the Card Writing Ministry to our parishioners stepped down at the end of 2014. Mary Ellen shared this role with 2 or more other parishioners who would send notes celebrating a special family event, or those suffering pain, loss or difficulty in their lives. In the past year this group sent out around 60 or more notes. Mary Ellen also was in touch weekly with the Parish Administrator to receive updates on parishioners who would appreciate a note of support or celebration. A new coordinator for this role will be named shortly. Many thanks to Mary Ellen and her writers for this important work! As always, donations of cards to support this ministry are welcome and can be left with Angela in the administrative office. The Prayer Circle is coordinated by MJ Fowler. MJ receives requests for intercessory prayer on behalf of oneself, family and friends. Requests for prayers from the Prayer Circle are held in confidence and not shared outside the Circle. If you have permission from the person for whom

21 you are requesting prayers, you may call or write to MJ and she will let the Prayer Circle know. Feel free to contact MJ if you feel called to join the Prayer Circle. The Mutual Care Commission is guided by Jeannette Stebbins. Mutual Care members offer services to parishioners including meals, visits, phone visits, rides to appointments and also to church. With the exception of rides, these services are to provide a short term solution or break to individuals or families in need. Over the past year, approximately 30 contacts with parishioners were made to offer support and check in with offers of meals, rides or other short term assistance. Requests for assistance will often come from the clergy, but Jeannette is happy to hear from anyone with a neighborly pastoral concern about a parishioner. Offers of help in Mutual Care would be greatly appreciated! Mary McCarthy has coordinated the lion’s share of the rides to church services and events. Over a dozen individuals have been so helpful in getting folks to church who otherwise would be unable to attend. If you are able to provide rides to Grace, either on a one- time, occasional, or even regular basis, Mutual Care would love to hear from you! Lay Eucharistic Visitors, (LEV’S), take Communion and visit parishioners who are unable to worship in Grace Church due to illness or other concerns. LEV’s visit parishioners who are homebound, hospitalized or in nursing or rehabilitation facilities. In this past year 25 visits were made, involving 21 individuals. If you know of someone who would welcome a LEV visit or a visit from the clergy, please let the clergy or Jeannette Stebbins know. Requests for any services provided by Mutual Care or Pastoral Care can be directed to Jeannette Stebbins. Her email and phone number are published weekly in the Church Bulletin. Jeannette Stebbins, Chair

OUTREACH MINISTRIES COMMISSION

In 2014, our Outreach Offerings distributed over $19,500 to groups outside of Grace Church and $930 to the Rector's Discretionary Fund. This total is about $2,000 more than the 2013 Offerings. We are all grateful for the ever increasing generosity of the congregation. Your Easter Offering was $4665, Christmas was $7440 and the 4th Sunday Offerings totaled $8338. Organizations supported by the Outreach Offerings included both local groups and global groups. The local groups included: Family Outreach of Amherst, Not Bread Alone, Amherst Survival Center, Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity, The Food Bank of Western Mass, PFLAG, Craig's Doors, and The Interfaith Cot Shelter. Global groups included: American Friends of the Diocese of Jerusalem for the Al Ahli Hospital in Gaza, St. Matthieu's School in Haiti, Episcopal Relief and Development for refugees in Syria, and Doctors Without Borders for work with Ebola. In addition to money collected as Outreach Offerings, parishioners contributed time and treasures to those in need in countless ways. Just a few of the many: snacks delivered for children at summer camp; collection of backpacks, diapers, and school supplies; Christmas gifts for families; volunteer hours at shelters and meal programs. The children at the 10:30 service carried the food basket each Sunday which totaled hundreds of pounds of food donated to Amherst Survival Center. Part of the Mission Statement of the Outreach Ministries Commission says the mission is “to sustain outreach ministers through offerings of prayer, practical support, and opportunities to share the joys and challenges of their work as God's hands in the world.” We urge parishioners who are involved in charitable work, locally or globally, to contact us to see if we can provide support in any way.

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We thank all of you for your donations of time, talent, and treasure to our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ outside the walls of Grace Church.

Chris Hoffmann, Marion Rosenau, Co-chairs

Haiti Ministry:

Resolved: Grace Church will continue its partnership with L’Ecole St. Matthieu in Bayonnais, Haiti, through the year 2020. Our mission in this partnership is to minister to the children of St. Matthieu by supporting their education through prayerful collaboration, personal connection, and monetary contribution. A contribution toward teachers’ salaries remains our primary obligation. Other needs and priorities of the school, such as textbooks, uniforms, and classroom supplies, may be addressed. We encourage broadening of support both within and beyond the Diocese of Western Massachusetts as part of a plan to develop long-term sustainability for the school.

With these words, the Vestry this year validated the work of the Haiti Ministry and extended it for another five years. The vote recognized that Grace Church has indeed made a significant difference in the lives of the children of St. Matthew’s School during the seven years of our ministry there, but that educating a child is a lengthy process, and overcoming the many difficulties under which Haiti labors will not happen soon. We are grateful for this vote of confidence in our endeavor. 2014 has been a year of successes for St. Matthew’s School, but one that has posed some challenges for our partnership. School enrollment increased to 120 in fall 2014 (up from around 100 at the end of 2013-14). The same seven teachers are continuing their work with grades K-6, still devoted to their pupils’ success. All but one of those completing sixth grade this year passed the national examination that qualifies them to enter the next level of schooling. Fr. Jean Fils Chery took over responsibility for St. Matthieu in late August 2013, when all priests in Haiti were reassigned. He is devout and serious and has high ideals for St. Matthieu. He speaks elegant French and English, in addition to kreyol. He is, however, new to the area and has less experience with partnerships than Fr. Max. He has been tasked with running a radio station, in addition to the three churches, three schools, and a medical clinic that he oversees, and he occasionally seems, understandably, overwhelmed. Our relationship with his predecessor, Fr. Max, evolved and deepened over many months, and we must remember this as we build a productive working relationship with Fr. Jean Fils. Our challenge is to create successful avenues of communication, establish mutual trust, and improve transparency and accountability. Another challenge is that the building project has come to a standstill. Foundations for four classrooms were laid in spring 2013. Over the summer they were said to be curing. Somehow, in the transition between priests, the remaining construction funds evaporated. Some building materials were bought, but they are insufficient, and there is no money left for labor. Extensive inquiries at various levels of the Episcopal hierarchy have produced no firm explanation of what happened. We do not believe there has been malfeasance. It is likely that the cost estimates were too low, and some funds may have been directed toward other urgent needs of the parish. What is important is to put systems in place so that this doesn’t happen again. Until we are confident that our partners can provide ongoing accountability, we will not send further building monies. Hiring a knowledgeable construction manager to oversee the work may also be advisable. 23

After much soul-searching, prayer, and a brief hiatus in our payments, we resolved to continue to support the teachers’ salaries and the students’ textbooks, school supplies, and uniforms. It is important that the pupils and teachers not be punished for poor management by others. Still, a small church sanctuary and a former goat stable are not an optimal learning environment for 120 children. We hope to be able to move forward with the building as soon as possible. Another disappointment was the last-minute cancellation of a summer camp we had planned, because of the emergence of chikungunya, a mosquito-borne virus. The granting agencies have encouraged us to reapply in 2015, and we are hoping to offer another camp then. A further setback this year has been the reduction and eventually cessation of the school lunch program. The NGO that had been supplying rice and beans, Food for the Poor, has reduced its activity in Haiti and redirected its efforts to other world trouble spots. Grace has never directly funded the school lunch, but we engaged Food for the Poor initially, and we provided the cookware, plates and forks to get the program going. We know how essential to learning it is for the students to be fed. We are attempting to develop a budget for the lunch program with Jean Fils’s help and will work to interest other congregations or organizations in adopting this much-needed cause. One success was John Stifler’s video about St. Matthieu and its community, shot in summer 2012 by Hampshire College student Erick Msumanje, and completed this year with the help of another Hampshire student, James Birtwistle. John premiered the video to about 35 members of the congregation on June 1 and, with Mark Peterman, reported on their March visit to Bayonnais. A Congregational Development Initiative grant from the Diocese of Western Massachusetts funded the video, a copy of which was presented to the Bishop in May. This gave a wonderful overall picture of the school and the children. John Stifler worked with passion and persistence by engaging the two students to see this project through. Thank you so much, John. Fundraising In addition to an annual appeal and the fourth Sunday open plate collection in October, the Haiti Ministry mounted three special events to generate both funds and friends for our endeavor. Together they yielded approximately $5200. 1. Chili Cook-Off on January 25. Led by the event’s chair, Nina Scott, six Grace cooks squared off in the Parish Hall in competition for the Best Chili award. Others contributed cornbread, coleslaw, and dessert. A dozen energetic members of the youth group helped with serving and clearing up. Rev. Tom Synan, resplendent in a mariachi sombrero, gave out chili- themed prizes (Jeannette Stebbins carried the day, and there were five Honorable Mentions). Approximately 100 people attended, from the parish and beyond, and a gratifying feeling of community suffused the evening. 2. We teamed up with Mohawk Trail Concerts to offer a joint benefit concert in Amherst College’s acoustically superior Buckley Hall on June 21. Alice Ivy-Pemberton (violin) and Estela Olevsky (piano) performed works by Debussy, Albéniz and Wieniawski. This was a dazzling performance by both artists. We are so fortunate at Grace Church to have watched and heard Alice Ivy Pemberton grow as a performer and person. Young people from Grace served as ushers. About 300 people attended . The Daily Hampshire Gazette published a profile of Alice in Hampshire Life just before the concert.

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3. This year’s festive Dine-In dinner at the home of Sandy and Suzannah Muspratt was a “Fondue Fandango” on July 19. Croquet and cocktails in the garden were followed by three different fondues (cheese, beef, and Asian seafood), each in a different room. Chocolate fondue on the back porch completed the evening. In keeping with the 60s theme, people came in peace symbols, psychedelic T-shirts, wide ties and bell-bottoms and brought photos of themselves in the 1960s (if they existed then). 25 attended. Total raised for above events: $5200 Our Blessings We have an amazing, hard-working committee who bring their passion and willingness to make events happen, all with joy and a lot of fun! During the year Gillian Duda left the committee (though continuing to help nonetheless) and Patty Appelbaum and Martin Wobst joined. Others are always welcome. John Stifler and Mark Peterman made a mission trip in March. They met with the head of the Partnership Program in an attempt to trace the missing building funds; with Fr. Jean Fils and head teacher Clibert Massilon. They observed school in session and offered the children a quick lesson in kazoo-playing. They discussed teacher training and also spoke with several individuals with building experience in Haiti about costs and cost-containment mechanisms. Sandy Muspratt, co-chair of the Haiti Ministry, oversaw our table at the St. Nicholas Bazaar and the alternative giving program. He traveled to New York in November to meet with Fr. Jean Fils and Suffragan Bishop of Haiti Ogé Beauvoir, who were visiting the city. He has been appointed to our diocese’s Global Missions commission. We continue to receive heartwarming support from the congregation, the diocese, and the public: Rev. Tom Synan has been an enthusiast for our mission, a pragmatist about how to get things done, and a helpful foil in helping us avoid “mission creep.” We are grateful for his guidance and prayers. Bishop Doug Fisher of the Diocese of Western Massachusetts made telephone calls to his Haitian peers on our behalf concerning the missing funds, and Bishop Stacy Sauls, C.O.O. of the Episcopal Church, is exploring ways to improve the training of clergy in Haiti with regard to communication, transparency, and accountability. We are grateful to have received three grants from the Global Missions commission of the Diocese this year. The Vestry gave deep and prayerful consideration to our request to extend the Haiti Ministry beyond 2015. We are grateful for their suggestions about improving our effectiveness and their concern for the long-term sustainability of St. Matthieu. We look forward to working with them to develop a broader base of support in the coming years. Our fellow parishioners have been rock solid in their support. Although “donor fatigue” frequently plagues charitable initiatives that continue over several years, we see no signs of it among our constituency. During the year we received $17,022 in cash donations, most from the parish. Parishioners have generously provided school supplies, musical instruments, and camp supplies whenever we’ve asked. When the school enrollment boomed unexpectedly in September, individual parishioners once again responded to our urgent request to fund a new student’s uniforms, books, and supplies at a cost of $60 apiece. All 20 of the new enrollees were “adopted.” 25

Volunteers not on the committee have stepped forward to help in myriad ways. Special thanks to Nina Scott, who chaired the chili cook-off, and to the cooks and others who participated in that event; to Gillian Duda, who helps with tasks ranging from creating posters and cards to writing thank-you notes; to Lisa Lukas, who designed the camp T-shirts and a handsome flyer for the concert in June, as well as stunning flower arrangements for the stage; to Jane and Jack Pemberton, who helped negotiate Amherst College’s contribution of Buckley Hall. All of our fundraising events attracted members of the community who are not Grace parishioners. About 25% of our donations come from outside the church. The List Fund, a local foundation dedicated to using dance and music to benefit needy children, for the second time provided grant funding for a summer camp. The University of Massachusetts funded some travel to Haiti, and Amherst College donated its auditorium and piano for the June concert. Conclusion: Our associations with the people of Bayonnais have been deeply rewarding on a personal level. We have learned and grown in understanding about the complexities of working in an underdeveloped country, particularly as a result of this year’s challenges. It isn’t always easy, and that is in part why we have chosen this demanding road. If we are truly to identify with our brothers and sisters in Haiti, rather than simply mailing a check, we must persist in coming to terms with cultural differences and differing expectations, encourage open communication, and jointly forge a way forward. We are grateful for the community of support behind us here in Amherst. Submitted by Mary Hocken (co-chair) but Suzannah Fabing wrote most of this! Thank you so much, Suzannah, and to the wonderful committee: Sandy Muspratt (co-chair), Suzannah Fabing (clerk), Jess Andrews, Patty Applebaum, Meg Holladay, Brown Kennedy, Sheila Mammen, DeeDee Niswonger, Joan O’Brien, Mark Peterman, John Stifler, Reynolds Winslow, Martin Wobst. Mary Hocken, co-chair

Grace Church Peace Fellowship: The Grace Church Peace Fellowship is a committee of Grace Church’s Outreach Commission and is a “Peace Partner” with the National Episcopal Peace Fellowship. Our Baptismal Covenant calls us to “strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of every human being.” We commit ourselves to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ: to pray, study, and work for peace and justice, and to renounce participation in war, militarism, and all forms of violence. This year, we continue our work of educating ourselves and raising awareness within our church community about a number of peace and justice issues where we work, often with similar-minded groups, toward understanding, witnessing, advocating for, and in at least some cases ameliorating unjust situations. As an example, we recently declared a “win” in our long- term protest against the notorious illegal prison in Guantanamo, when the seventh and last of the detainees we have been supporting was transferred to Uruguay and released. Other witnesses that members have initiated or taken part in include the People’s Climate March in New York; Springfield March for Climate Justice; the bi-weekly Interfaith Vigil against Weaponized Drone Warfare; and Coming Together: Understanding Racism, Working for Justice & Building Connections in the Amherst, MA Area, an ongoing series of lectures, films, and discussions about racism locally and nationally.

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We have recently begun to look at the possibility of advocating for a national Department of Peace at the federal level; the concept of such a department has a long history in this country. In addition, as a long-term commitment standing against the illegal occupation of Palestinian lands and the subjugation of Palestinian people, our Peace Fellowship supports the full tuition for one student at the Episcopal Technological and Vocational Training Center in Ramallah through our monthly sale of Palestinian Olive Oil. The Fellowship meets on the second Sunday of each month at noon to pray, study, discuss, and plan responses to social and economic injustices locally, nationally, and in the world. We welcome all to our monthly meetings. Bob Hawley, Chair

Brother Lawrence Guild: Brother Lawrence was a seventeenth-century Carmelite monk who experienced the presence of God while cleaning pots in the scullery of his monastery. Accepting what he’d been given to do, Brother Lawrence spent his life attempting to live in God’s presence. We hope that we, like Brother Lawrence, may practice the presence of God in the act of preparing meals for our fellow parishioners – and newcomers – at Grace Church. We are grateful for this opportunity BUT always welcome those who would like to join us in this hospitable endeavor! Our merry band of men and women serves the parish by preparing and serving food for several church events, complete with planning, shopping, setting up, and cleaning up afterwards. In 2014, we worked the following events: Annual Meeting, Shrove Tuesday Pancake supper, the Pentecost and St. Michael's picnics, the Stewardship In-Gathering Potluck (a new event this year), and the St. Nicholas Bazaar Cafe, our one for-profit event. Our members also maintain the kitchen facilities in the Parish Hall and volunteer/cook for other special events, as needed. The kitchen is in need of several upgrades/basic needs and we look forward to working with members of the greater Grace Church community to make all improvements necessary to make this a fully functioning kitchen! The BLG already enjoys a working relationship with the Vestry and other groups within our church community and beyond, and welcomes everyone to the table of discussion on how to improve the kitchen’s use. Serving as a member of the BLG is a great way to get involved at Grace Church – we are pretty relaxed, frequently zany and always in good taste! We recognize God’s presence among us in serving food and promoting fellowship in the congregation. When we at Grace Church meet, greet, and eat with each other, God is with us…and those times are joyful occurrences! Join us! Respectfully submitted by Diana Spurgin and Mark Leonas, for Members in Service: Jessica Mix Barrington, Lou and Cecil Currin, Jeffrey DeSantis, Tom and Kitty Dougherty, Tony Jewell, Margaret King, John Lemly, Steve McKelvey, Margo McMahon, Doug Moore, Cassandra Moss, Cathy Quinlan, Kevyn Smith, Jeannette Stebbins, Janet Teng, Virginia Ramos, Eve Webster, and Reynolds Winslow.

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STEWARDSHIP COMMISSION The 2015 Stewardship Campaign began in early November when a mailing was sent to 252 households. Two weeks later, over 100 households presented their pledges on Commitment Sunday. The committee sent out their second mailing in early December, followed up by phone calls and emails. We hope to complete the campaign before Annual Meeting. The goal for 2015 will likely fall between $465,000 and $470,000. As of January 15th, the total pledged is approximately $462,000. This is our best start in at least five years! The number of pledges to date is 178. We hope to hear from about two dozen more households. In looking ahead to Stewardship 2016, the committee would ask members to consider the following suggestions to make our work less onerous:

1. We had difficulty reaching well over a dozen households by phone and email. This is extremely frustrating due to time spent and lack of response from fellow Grace members.

2. We hope that members who traditionally delay in submitting pledges will make a New Year’s resolution to move towards a prompt response. With few exceptions, we should be able to submit our pledges by January 1st. How and when the pledge is fulfilled depends on everyone’s personal financial circumstances.

3. Some people still believe that volunteering releases them from financial responsibility. We need everyone to give of their time, talent, AND treasures in order to achieve our goals and operating costs at Grace.

New pledges are welcome and are graciously accepted at any time of the year. If you have not yet pledged, it is not too late to do so. Thank you. Bob Kelly for the Stewardship Committee Danielle Federa, Ruthie Ireland, Steve McKelvey, Mark Peterman, Bruce Stebbins, and the Reverend Tom Synan

Planned Giving:: The Planned Giving Committee, comprised of Doug Adler and Kent Faerber, is available to provide information to parishioners on ways to include Grace Church in their estate plans in conjunction with advice from their legal counsel. Doug and Kent can discuss the opportunities to support the long-term needs of Grace through a bequest, designation in an insurance policy or retirement plan, or a life income gift, such as a charitable gift annuity or charitable remainder trust. The St. Michael's Fellowship, established in 2004, recognizes those who have included Grace in their estate plans and parishioners are encouraged to alert the Rector or one of the committee members of such plans. During 2014, Susan and Steven Abdow, Tom and Kitty Dougherty, and Ann Holland became new members of the St. Michael’s Fellowship and joined with Doug Adler, Patricia Andrews, Stephen and Jeanne Armstrong, Steve and Kate Atkinson, Jane Buckloh, Suzannah Fabing, Kent and Scottie Faerber, Bob Hawley and Mary McCarthy, Mel Heath *, Hertha Haensel *, Anne Homme, Royster and Kathryn Hedgepeth, Rob Hirschfeld and Polly Ingraham, Mary Hocken, Dorothy Ives *, John Lemly and Catherine Melhorn, Mark Leonas, Sheila Mammen, Mark Marshall and Helen Leung, Margo McMahon, Roberta Morel *, Eliot Moss and Hannah Abbott, Marilyn Munn, Priscilla Parke *, Nancy Rose-Weeber, Jim and Nina Scott, Phebe

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Sessions, Eugene and Marcia Sheehan, Bruce and Jeannette Stebbins, Mary Steigner, Sara Stelzner, Zina Tillona, Charlotte Turgeon *, Timothy Van Cleef and Karen Lowe, Paul Vasconcellos, and Reynolds Winslow in their commitment to Grace Church through their estate plans.

* deceased Doug Adler, Chair

Greening Grace: It was a good and busy year for the Greening group. In January we worked together with other area organizers to present a Divestment Forum in Springfield. A varied panel of a clergy member (Margaret Bullitt-Jonas), an inner city community activist, a college student, climate leader, and two investment experts presented a moving and informative session attended by more than 50 people. Several were trustees of the Episcopal Diocese of Western Mass., which has since pledged to divest their funds of carbon fuels. In February, we organized a truly moving vigil attended by more than 100 people on the Town Common to light the night with our resolve, prayers, and song to tell President Obama that the Keystone XL pipeline fails his climate test and he must reject it. Ruthie Ireland and a few others presented a very supportive discussion on Parenting Through Climate Change that month. Solarize Amherst presented its plan for individuals wishing to add solar panels to their homes, which a number of us took advantage of – many thanks to Ann Kearns for helping spearhead that action for the town. Amherst ended up as the community with the highest participation in the state! In February we also ran a postcard initiative with many other parishes asking Pres. Obama and Sec. of State Kerry to reject the XL pipeline. Grace sent in 200, the whole Green Faith group 50,000 . Lee Bridegam came to present to the committee the OrganicsAmherst opportunity for people without compost piles of their own to bring their organic waste to the town recycling center. In April for Creation Sunday Rev. Synan moderated a fascinating panel discussion of people of faith in environmental careers. Many thanks to Jen Sopher, Ruthie Ireland, Cecil Currin, and Melinda Reid for their intriguing accounts of how their faith moves them in working for God’s Creation. And we thank Ruthie for also volunteering to hold a family nature walk for Grace in May – we look forward to more! With DeAnne Riddle leading the way, we also started work via a postcard drive, to lobby the state to create a carbon tax, the revenue of which would be used for environmental projects throughout the state. The hope is that this will be presented to the legislature some time in 2015. The summer and early fall were spent getting prepared for the People Climate March in NYC on Sept. 21. First, the vestry kindly endorsed the March with a strong environmental statement. Then a number of members worked on creating carpools and a bus down to the March. More than 40 of us joined 400,000 friends from all walks of life and concerns in a call for the UN delegates to action on climate change. And at Grace, the March was marked by dozens of folks with bells, noisemakers and the organ joining a worldwide musical shout out for action. Many of the marchers went to a moving evening service of world faith leaders urging action from all the cultures of the world entreating for our care of the earth. In October a number of us participate with more than 100 others in the Springfield People's Climate March to urge the city council to appoint an environmental official in that needy environment. Happily, that evening the council members voted in favor of that important measure. Aiming for our Bazaar table, Angela Battle led a workshop to create ‘new’ objects from recycled items such as bottles and boxes. Many thanks, Angela! We then sold them, recycled

29 paper pads, and other items at the Bazaar. Also, as usual, we posted enviro-tips in the monthly Grace Notes. We look forward to a new year of work for God’s Creation and all of us creatures of the land, sea, and air! We would welcome more to join us in this exciting work.

Lucy Robinson, convener of Greening Grace

VII. TREASURER’S REPORT

2014 is the seventh year in a row in which we ended with a positive balance in our operating budget. Your generous pledges and faithful fulfillment of them, along with the thoughtful monitoring of expenses by many staff and committee chairs, have contributed to these results. A great strength at Grace Church is the time and talent that is freely given by members of our parish. We are blessed to have the services of Rich Spurgin and DeAnne Riddle, both of whom are our Assistant Treasurers. Rich prepared the monthly and annual financial reports and DeAnne has given invaluable service in preparing our yearly operating budget. The Finance Committee, comprised of Rich and DeAnne, Kitty Dougherty, Bob Kelly and Mark Leonas, has provided sound advice on a range of issues to aid the Vestry in making financial decisions. Our faithful counters have scrupulously accounted for all the cash and checks donated each Sunday. We are all thankful for Jaana Cutson, our Parish Bookkeeper, who has done a wonderful job of keeping our complex financial system running smoothly. I also want to recognize Jim Scott for his service in reconciling our monthly bank statements. Due in large part to the salary savings from Margaret and Hilary’s unfilled part-time positions, we completed the year with a surplus of $69,922. The Finance Committee recommended, and the Vestry approved, that this surplus be allocated to the following: 10% of surplus for Outreach & Mission programs $500 bonus each for Tom, Angela, Beth, Dick, Jaana and David $2,000 for the Rector’s Discretionary Fund 75% of remainder (after the first three items above) for the Building Maintenance Fund 25% of remainder (after the first three items above) for Wardens & Vestry Endowment The Trustees of the Diocese of Western Massachusetts managed our endowment funds well and continued to make 5% distributions, providing a valuable addition to our operating budget. The Vestry authorized our parish audit to be conducted by the Diocesan recommended auditor for 2013 as an additional measure to insure that our methods and procedures are strong. Bruce Rockwell conducted a thorough review and confirmed that our financial records were accurate but recommended that we modify some reporting and disaster recovery policies. This is my second and final year as Treasurer, and I want to thank you all for honoring me with this position. I appreciate the opportunity it has given me to meet and work with many of you.

Doug Adler, Treasurer

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VIII. MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION

Baptism

Claire Madeline Weston Brody Timothy Bailey Slayton Toraji Nishi Marx Henry Dunston Maxey Nora Elizabeth Heaphy Brynn Marie O’Reilly

Received

Lynne Broderick Byler Janet McKenna Lowry

Marriage David McFerrin and Erin Dougherty

Requiem

Judd Blaine Dorothy Ann Ives Kurt Evan Grillo Zella Borst Harrington Richard Merrill Sweitzer Elizabeth Scott Landford

Added - New members/Reactivated

Robert and Megan Suidzinski Jean and Larry Rankin Ken Rose Beverly and Michael Bullock Janet Swem Susan Haff Emily Breon and Adam Honig Polly Lyman Lynne Byler Olusoji Olankapo Sanjay Arwade

Turned 16

Alex Perry Thomas Perry Noah Zobel Lydia Anderson

Transferred/Moved

Cami and Peter Elbow Ruth Hooke

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