Report of the Joint Needs Assessment Committee | March 2016 St. Mary’s Road United Church Creating disciples active in the world

St. Mary’s Road United Church is a unique and vibrant congregation with 1 Introduction strong lay leadership, rich and In 2015 St. Mary’s Road United Church meaningful worship life, and a wealth developed a vision for our church in anticipation of resources. While we believe that we of the need for change. We wanted to answer the question of “who are we called to be” before have important work to do, there are we needed to consider any questions of staffing challenges we must meet to fully or resources. realize our vision. This will require Now, with the need for change upon us, we have strong leadership and renewed been able to explore the vision in the context of commitment from us as members of our resources to develop a staffing model that moves us towards our vision while using our this congregation. resources and gifts to their fullest potential.

This Needs Assessment Report was completed as part of the Joint Needs Assessment Process of the United Church of .

The model and staffing presented in this document means change. It has challenges, but it also holds enormous promise and potential. Financially, this model means a deficit for the congregation – one that can be met with existing funds, but one that is clearly not sustainable. It is the clear desire of the congregation to grow to meet this deficit rather than simply spend our St. Mary’s Road United Church existing funds until they are gone. 613 St. Mary’s Road www.stmarysroad.ca The one thing above all else that this process has highlighted, and that this document reflects, is /smruc the need for strong leadership from our staff and @smruc613 lay leaders. It also requires a renewed commitment to this ministry and its work from the members of the congregation.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 1 of 24

1.1 Document Format happens, the ministry is largely carried out by volunteers who are supported, trained and This document contains the following sections: enabled by the staff team. 2. Community – a description of the community Cell group ministry is presented as an area to that the church is situated in and how this develop, particularly in light of the desire to congregation fits. support pastoral care, but the recognition that 3. Resources – a review of our physical, the presented staffing model does not offer volunteer and financial resources that we can much time to support this ministry. draw upon to fulfill our vision. The JNAC envisions a staff team focused on the 4. Pastoral Charge – a discussion of the history, vision of creating disciples who are active in the focus and ministry of our congregation. world.

5. Positions – staff position descriptions, skills, knowledge and terms of call. 2 Community 1.2 Summary 2.1 Our community The following is a summary of key St. Mary's Road United Church (SMRUC) is recommendations and findings in this report. located in the Winnipeg community of St.Vital, just a few minutes south of Downtown at the Transition the congregation from our current junction of two of south-east Winnipeg’s major concurrent worship model to a consecutive arteries, St. Mary's Road and St. Anne's Road. St. worship model. This is a significant change, the Vital is a mostly residential area filled with details of which are not addressed by the JNAC. stately elms and a diverse multicultural society One full time minister with responsibility for of hardworking individuals. Bounded by the Red worship and theological arc/direction for the River to the west, the Seine River to the east, congregation. Carriere Avenue to the north and the Rural Municipality of Ritchot to the south, St.Vital is One half time minister with responsibility for adjoined by the communities of Norwood to the leadership development and volunteer north and St. Boniface to the West, which is the activation. centre of much of the Franco-Manitoban A part time administrative assistant. This community in . position remains largely unchanged but does St. Vital was a separate municipality from include new responsibilities for communication Winnipeg until 1971 and was originally home to and support for volunteer scheduling. many French-speaking settlers, particularly Two part time music positions to support the two Metis. Approximately 17% percent of St. Vital adult worship paths. These positions remain residents can speak French. The neighbouring largely unchanged except for a renewed focus on community of St. Boniface has a large French church community development. speaking population and has a rich cultural heritage. Children and Youth ministry remains a primary focus for the congregation, with both ministers In order to better understand the surrounding contributing to support this ministry. While the community, St. Mary's Road United Church was ministers are responsible for ensuring it part of the Emerging Spirit commissioned Environics Analytics demographics study in 2008.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 2 of 24

Using 2007 congregation data our "service area" declare the United Church as their religion of was found to be bounded by The Forks on the choice. north, Lagimodiere Boulevard on the east, Bishop Grandin Boulevard on the south and 2.2 Our Neighborhood Pembina Highway on the west. Surprisingly, only This beautiful, historic area has undergone a 60% of church members live in this very large wonderful transformation in recent years. area. Storefronts throughout the area boast window boxes full of flowers and a beautiful new archway provides access to the river walk and park. Stately elms line walking tour routes and informative plaques provide information about area attractions, such as the Riel House National Historic Site and the St. Vital Museum.

The surrounding neighbourhood has stores and services along the major routes with Winnipeg’s second largest mall, St. Vital Centre, 5 km south of the Church. St. Vital boasts a vibrant culinary scene with some of the best restaurants, ice- cream shops and cafes the city has to offer.

Many in our congregation consider SMRUC to be a “destination church” and travel from far outside our “service area” to be part of our unique worship model. While a large city, Winnipeg is not overly congested with traffic and our central location on two major routes makes driving to the church easy. Public transit in Winnipeg also allows easy access to the church from all areas of the city.

Age demographics indicate that 44% of Located along the Red River, St. Vital Park’s neighbourhood residents are less than 35 years hiking and cycling trails provide picturesque old, while 13% are 65 and older. Immigrants views of the water. Barbecue pits, athletic make up 13% of the population, while 11% are fields, toboggan slides, cross-country ski trails visible minorities (low compared to Winnipeg and playground make this a great spot for average). family gatherings and recreation year round. Several smaller parks, the Bishop Grandin Households in the service area are typically Greenway, and the Maple Grove off-leash Dog single-detached houses with 16% of residents Park, Windsor Nordic Ski Centre and Bonivital living in low-rise apartments. Average indoor public pool are but some of the many household incomes are $68,216 which is roughly recreational activities available in the area. 10% above the Winnipeg average. St. Boniface Hospital is the closest hospital to the Within the service area, 69% of people identified church and is the second largest in Winnipeg. themselves as Christians, and of that 15.4% We share parking with the province’s first

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 3 of 24 dedicated Birthing Center. Although the Birthing exploring the forests and provincial parks that Centre is relatively new, we have established an are a short drive from the city. The well excellent working relationship between our two renowned winters are cold, but the fact it is a institutions. There are several personal care “dry cold” does mean that proper layers keep the homes in the area. There are also many Schools, cold out, and you don’t experience bone chilling Community clubs, Colleges and Universities dampness. Winter activities are popular and within a short drive of the Church. widespread, from tobogganing and hot chocolate at the Forks to skating on the world’s 2.3 The City of Winnipeg longest skating rink. The winters also offer an Winnipeg is the capital and largest city of the opportunity to check out Winnipeg’s superior province of Manitoba, Canada. It is located near arts scene in our many venues, including the the longitudinal centre of North America, at the acclaimed Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre, confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. Winnipeg Symphony, Opera, and world-class Royal Winnipeg Ballet. The name "Winnipeg" comes from the Western Cree words for nearby Lake Winnipeg, referring The international award winning Canadian to muddy or brackish water. The region was a Museum for Human Rights rises from the Prairie trading centre for aboriginal peoples long before earth on Treaty One land at a doorstep of The the arrival of Europeans. French traders built the Forks Historic Site. It is the first national museum first fort on the site in 1738. A settlement was created in Canada since 1967 and the first ever later founded by the Selkirk settlers of the Red national museum to be located outside the River Colony in 1812, the nucleus of which was National Capital Region. incorporated as the City of Winnipeg in 1873.

Winnipeg has a population of just over 730,000, making it Canada’s seventh largest municipality. Furthermore, the city represents 54.9% of the population of the province of Manitoba, the highest population concentration in one city of any province in Canada.

Known as the "Gateway to the West", Winnipeg is a railway and transportation hub with a diversified economy. It is home to several This multicultural city hosts numerous annual professional sports franchises, including the festivals, including the Winnipeg Folk Festival, Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL), the Winnipeg Jets the Jazz Winnipeg Festival, the Winnipeg Fringe (NHL), Manitoba Moose (AHL) and the Winnipeg Festival and ManyFest. A celebration of culture Goldeyes (baseball). occurs annually with world-class entertainment, Winnipeg’s Urban Forest is part of every delicious authentic food and beautiful cultural neighborhood with a green canopy being a displays at Folklorama, the largest and longest- signature feature of the city. Our recently running multicultural festival of its kind in the expanded active transportation routes allow world. exploring the city under your own power during For families, Winnipeg offers an array of our glorious long summer evenings, if you are activities. The Manitoba Museum, Manitoba not out of town at a world class beach, or Children’s Museum, Manitoba Theatre for Young

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 4 of 24

People, and Zoo are just a few of the exceptional, quality family activities 3 Resources available year round. Kids Fest, the Teddy Bear Resources at SMRUC are identified as Picnic, the Friendship Festival in the summer, 1) tangible or physical assets such as our finances and Festival du Voyageur in the winter, are all and building; and not to be missed. The Festival du Voyageur (translated as Festival of the Traveller) is an 2) other assets such our volunteer base who play annual 10-day winter festival that takes place a significant role in a creating a vibrant church each February in St. Boniface, and is Western community. Canada's largest winter festival. It celebrates Canada's fur-trading past and unique French 3.1 Facilities: heritage and culture through entertainment, arts The SMRUC building at 613 St Mary’s Road in the and crafts, music, exhibits, and displays. St Vital community of Winnipeg is approximately 65 years old. We are adjacent to the Birthing Winnipeg is not without its challenges. Urban Center at the intersection of St Mary’s Road and sprawl is a significant concern, with expanding St Anne’s Road. Parts of the structure have wealthy suburbs and a poor inner-city. Winnipeg undergone several renovations, particularly has Canada’s largest urban Aboriginal population after the three founding congregations and racism against that population can be very amalgamated in 2003 to form SMRUC. The main tangible. Helping Winnipeg rise above these floor of the building is almost entirely wheelchair challenges, we find many successful grassroots accessible. However, currently the basement non-profit organizations who not only serve the and some entrances are not yet accessible for needs of their clients, but whose vibrant wheel chairs. presence is felt throughout this city, across all racial and income thresholds. SMRUC has established meaningful connections with many of these organizations, with a particular focus on community groups whose work goes beyond the simply charitable, to the deeply transformative.

Winnipeg has a long tradition of volunteerism, support for community service organizations, and one of the highest charitable donation rates in the country. The Winnipeg Folk Festival, a top Canadian music festival, hosts up to 14,000 people daily for 5 days using almost exclusively The original west sanctuary (capacity 400) volunteer labour. The 12 day Winnipeg Fringe currently used for the more traditional worship Festival, which is the second largest Fringe service features fixed pews, pulpit, choir loft and Festival in North America functions with the help organ at the rear of the sanctuary. The most of 800 volunteers. recently renovated space is the east sanctuary, using stackable chairs for the contemporary Winnipeg is truly a hub of cultural diversity, and worship service. This space can easily be cultural activity on the prairies. converted to a multipurpose space for meetings, theater, concerts, dinners and community use. It will accommodate approximately 200 people.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 5 of 24

Both sanctuaries are linked to the building computer network and are equipped with modern audiovisual technology, a data projector and sound equipment.

Adjacent to the east sanctuary is a renovated kitchen with commercial dishwasher, large stove, refrigerator and ample cupboard space. A recent capital campaign assisted to replace the Adjacent to the kitchen between the east and roof. Conversation continues regarding how to west sanctuaries is an open or junction space for maximize the facility space to enable us to live fellowship and coffee after worship or for a our mission and vision. Our aging and heavily meeting space. used building needs to be monitored regularly In addition, the main floor of the building has a for issues which may arise. reception desk area, staff offices, modern The rental of space to the Montessori school bathrooms, nursery room, and a large classroom contributes to the church budget in a positive space currently leased during the week to a way and conversation does occur regarding Montessori program and used on Sunday for a additional opportunities for revenue through preschool age children’s program. rental initiatives. The basement space features a choir room, washrooms, small kitchen, storage and meeting space for children and youth centered activities.

Outside of the west side of the church (St Mary’s Road) is a newly installed large electronic sign prominently displaying the “happenings” of the church. This acts as a communication tool for the community to inform and welcome people to events in the church.

The east side outdoor space boasts an evolving community garden, adding visual beauty and seasonal bounty for the weekly foodbank operating out of SMRUC.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 6 of 24

3.2 Volunteers 3.3 Finances Our large volunteer base is critical to the life of A stewardship initiative will likely occur in the the church. It relies on individuals’ good will, coming year requiring lay and staff leadership. talents and passions. This volunteer resource The current deficit is approximately $57,000. must be nourished and supported in their Some years ago SMRUC received a significant efforts. Therefore, a significant goal of the staff bequest which allowed us to staff and live our is to provide support, coordination, lay vision of supporting three worship paths. While leadership development and education to the a fairly significant sum of money remains, it can volunteers in order to bring out the best in this easily be depleted over time by financing important group and to fuel their passions. ongoing budget deficits. Neither the congregation nor the givings have grown at the The congregation is multigenerational. There are rate hoped. In addition some of our larger 483 households in our directory and donors have passed away, directly affecting the approximately 450 members. Over 280 are budget bottom line. regular givers contributing to the financial operation of the church. Identifiable Givers Our more traditional worship service “the Tree 500 of Life” is currently made up of the more senior 400 members of the congregation, though this is not exclusively true. We have experienced a drop in 300 the number of senior members through 200 deteriorating health and passing away. 100 0 Our more contemporary worship service “the 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 Journey” currently seems to be favored by the Evelope/PAR Other younger families as well as a cross section of other generational groups. The numbers attending this worship service are relatively stable. Operating Donations There is a vibrant children and youth ministry. Numbers are growing (80+) and as children come 340000 to worship and become involved in groups, they 320000 300000 bring their parents and families, thus growing 280000 260000 our congregation. This demographic is 240000 important to the continued growth and 220000 200000 wellbeing of SMRUC requiring ongoing 180000 recognition and support. 160000 140000 120000 The staff positions beyond the ministry 100000 personnel include an office manager, a music position for each worship path (2 musicians who share the contemporary worship position and 1 choir leader/organist for the traditional service) and a custodian.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 7 of 24

Even though our donations and givers have explore. We created a worship model that declined, we have held our M&S givings involved 3 concurrent worship paths. We called relatively consistent. them The Journey – a more contemporary service with a band and use of technology; The M&S Givings Tree of Life – a more traditional United Church worship with a choir and organ; and Rainbow – 20000 18000 worship and programming designed specifically 16000 for children and youth. 14000 12000 While this model is changing now for several 10000 reasons, the idea of honouring traditional and 8000 contemporary worship is important to us and is 6000 4000 described later in the section on our Vision. 2000 4.1.2 Children and Youth Children and youth have always been a major

focus for our congregation. In previous JNACs 3.4 The Foundation and in previous staff configurations we have The St. Mary’s Road United Church Foundation been specific about choices to support this exists to support the church and broader ministry. While the model is different in this community. The ability to support endeavors is iteration, this desire and focus continues. dependent upon the assets in its care. The 4.1.3 Bequests and Staffing Foundation was established with its own board. Over the course of our history we have been Funds are received and held in trust and blessed with several significant bequests disbursed based on criteria for Christian including a million dollar bequest. We used this education, outreach, capital needs and church bequest in three ways: development. 1. We donated $400,000 to small community initiatives through a 4 Pastoral Charge program we called “opt in”. 4.1 History 2. We used some money to upgrade our organ, something that was sorely St. Mary's Road United Church was formed on needed. July 1, 2003, through the amalgamation of three 3. We used the remaining roughly United Churches on St. Mary's Road: Norwood, $500,000 to augment our staffing. The Regents Park, and St. Vital. All of these churches idea being that we could reach beyond had a storied and treasured history. Now, 13 our means and grow the church. years on from amalgamation, we are truly one congregation. We honour our past and our The $500,000 for staffing has had some very traditions, but we claim them now as traditions positive results for our congregation. However, of St. Mary’s Road United Church. the congregation itself has not grown to a point of being able to sustain the staffing. Although 4.1.1 Exploring Worship Models there is money remaining, now is the time to When we formed SMRUC it was an opportunity look at a sustainable model of ministry for our to move strongly into new forms of worship that congregation. our founding congregations were beginning to

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 8 of 24

4.1.4 Changes Faith Formation (Christian Education) – Changes are needed. This JNAC describes some members oversee the planning and execution of of these changes, including moving away from our children’s ministry programming. our concurrent worship model to a sequential model. It will also mean moving from 2.75 4.3 Small Group Ministry ministers to 1.5, which even then results in a The Small Group ministry model is a crucial part moderate deficit. of Christian life at St. Mary’s Road. Most of the work, outreach, programming, events and The congregation has been involved significantly gatherings that keep St. Mary’s Road buzzing in discussions around these changes. We have with activity 7 days a week stem directly from been intentional about getting to this place, our Small Groups. undertaking a vision process in 2015, and a focused JNAC this year. The change is still These ministries significant and may affect us in ways we do not comprise a wide yet understand. range of people, with very 4.2 Organizational Structure different St. Mary's Road uses a Leadership Team model interests, gifts, with nine elected members. Ministerial staff, and Treasurer, Ministry & Personnel representative, perspectives on Presbytery representative, and Past Chair are ex- living their officio. Three new members are elected each Christian journey. These could be permanent year, for a 3-year term. groups that meet regularly, or they could meet with a specific goal in mind and disband upon Responsibilities of the Leadership Team include completion of that goal. Some Small Groups are visioning, policy, oversight of finances, faith established for fellowship through recreation, formation, and worship. The team meets at least others offer the opportunity to delve into monthly. The Leadership Team functions under challenging Christian topics. Still others work a consensus model of decision making. directly with Ministry Staff to collaboratively There are several other teams and groups that plan worship services. report directly or indirectly to the Leadership Generally we hope that each Small Group has a Team. Some team members are elected to their worship component as well as a social position (in accordance to the Manual of the component. United Church), and others are appointed by the Leadership Team. The teams are: 4.3.1 Small Groups This is a selection of the groups and ministries Ministry and Personnel - Act as liaisons between that exist at SMRUC: the staff and the congregation (appointed).  Bible Study Board of Trustees – Purpose is to show that our  Book Club assets, both in real estate and liquid, are being  Bread Making kept as safe as possible (elected).  CGIT Presbyters- Our representatives attend monthly  Community Garden Presbytery meetings, and communicate back  Food Bank and forth between Presbytery and our church.  Forever 29

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 9 of 24

 Greening resources that link directly to the worship topics  Junior Youth discussed recently in church.  Lunch Bunch  Meals 4.5 Music  Outreach Music has been  Prayer identified as  Scrapbooking one of the key  Senior Youth differentiators  Theology on Tap in our worship styles and one  UCW of the main  Young Adults reasons we maintain multiple worship paths. It is  Youth Band an absolutely essential aspect of worship at St. 4.4 Cell Groups Mary's Road United Church. Congregants consistently identify their love for, and One area of growth that we would like to pursue connection to, the music at St. Mary’s Road as a is cell groups or home groups. Cell groups are key feature of their worship experience here. groups of people who meet regularly for prayer, study and social time. They may also participate Great enthusiasm and energy are brought to the together to serve the church or community in music ministry by our music staff, and by the some way. This could be things like serving large number of volunteers who contribute their communion or help in other activities of the time and talent. Some of the musical church. contributions include: The Tree of Life Choir, Journey Band, Youth Band, guest soloists, and Cell groups have four important outcomes that recorded music with video montages. help us achieve our vision. Ministry staff work collaboratively with 1. They serve as a landing place for volunteers and music staff to coordinate music newcomers. and worship themes. 2. They perform an important pastoral care function – with members of the group 4.6 Worship Model looking out for each other. The worship model of SMRUC arose out of a 3. They help foster our adult Christian desire to explore contemporary worship as a education. primary form of worship. In many congregations, 4. They help build community and foster contemporary worship has been a second tier or connection to the congregation and “also” worship on Sunday evenings, or each other. alternating Sundays etc. To truly embrace While this ministry is not yet in place at SMRUC contemporary worship, and be particularly open it is something we would like to explore and to newcomers, we felt it would need to be every develop. Sunday at the “regular” worship time. Amalgamation allowed us do this, while keeping Our model would implement a theological arc of a traditional worship model. the congregation include planning and resources for these groups. When the groups meet, part of their worship and discussions would be based on

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 10 of 24

Concurrent Changing from concurrent to consecutive is a big worship – change and will need to be planned and three worship implemented thoughtfully. There is much to services in one decide, like timing, how children and youth building at the programming will happen, and how we can same time – foster community through shared fellowship has its own time. Even things like what time joint services challenges, but has allowed us to establish three will take place? None of these details are strong forms of worship expression. addressed by the JNAC, other than stressing that significant and intentional work needs to happen One of the big challenges with this model is in this area. It will be a big and potentially continuity. Each worship path found its own difficult change. expression of worship, which was good, but also followed its own themes. The church really was 4.6.3 The Journey 3 separate congregations. The new model will Journey worship address this with the “one minister, two is our more services” model, and also specifically calls this contemporary out as a focus for the ministry staff: to establish worship model. the theological arc or direction for the Music is led by a congregation. band. In fact, there are now 4.6.1 Theological Arc almost two full bands that accompany worship When we talk about the theological arc we are on alternating weeks. Projection and imagery meaning the theme or plan, theologically form the main back-drop to the sanctuary, which speaking, that the church will be following. All is otherwise a converted gym. Worship flow is parts of the church – worship, faith formation, adjusted to suit the service, however a ‘standard’ small groups, cell groups etc. will have resources flow has emerged: based on this arc so that themes from worship align between all worships, groups, and  Two praise and worship songs meetings.  Introduction, welcoming, announcements The theological arc may be lectionary based, or  Reading theme based. The arcs may be month long  Expansion through media or other themes or a yearly focus with sub themes. expression. Whatever the case, we want to be intentional about an integrated theological plan for the  Message church.  Music presentation piece by the band  Offering 4.6.2 Changing Model  Prayers It is recognized that our current worship model  Closing song and sending out. will be changing as a result of this JNAC, so the following sections describes the worship paths Worship does not generally follow the as they are now, understanding that this will lectionary, preferring instead to explore themes need to change to some extent. of particular interest or importance to the congregation. Series are often used for multi- week exploration.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 11 of 24

Use of media and imagery (video clips, photo meaningful creative modes of delivering the montages, etc.) are also an important part of theological message. So while blending the exploring the message. worships from a message and theology point of view is relatively easy, the music is much harder. We have from time-to-time engaged other senses – sound, touch, taste and smell, and are It is important to understand that there is open to more creative explorations. tension around joint worship. This is an area to develop, but develop cautiously. There are Worship is planned in consultation with an danger zones in every congregation. This is one engaged worship planning team and the music for SMRUC. leadership staff. That said, as a church community, we desire to

4.6.4 The Tree of Life continue working to know each other across We call this our worship paths, ages and life stages. There are a “traditional” service, variety of strategies to accomplish this goal, one however that does being regular planned joint services, perhaps not really capture around such celebrations as baptism and the sense of the communion. service. The Tree of Life follows a regular 4.6.6 Children and Youth Ministry United Church liturgy with printed bulletin. The Children and Youth Ministry is core to our lectionary is often followed, but not always. identity and our vision. We have a large and Music is led by a choir accompanied by an organ successful worship model for our children, or piano. beginning with nursery and childcare, our “tots” preschool programming, core programming for The Tree of Life service has often used creative school age, up to junior and senior youth groups. explorations of the word in many ways. It too has access to technology including projection. There is an opportunity

4.6.5 Joint Worship for parents to From time to time, for special occasions and remain in the sometimes just because, we have held joint adult worship worship. This means that Journey, Tree of Life, streams by and sometimes the Children and Youth, all dropping off worship together. their children to join one of our children’s This has often been great. At its best it is a programs. For our youngest children, there is fantastic fusion where the whole is better than either our welcoming nursery program for the sum of its parts. There is energy and children from birth to age 2 or the “Tots” group enthusiasm and a presence of spirit that is for children aged three and four. The tots group undeniable. Sometimes it doesn’t get there. uses stories, playtime, songs and crafts to learn the stories of the Bible. During the JNAC deliberation, it has become clear that currently one of the major differences We are currently using the Godly Play Curriculum between the Tree of Life and Journey worship for our Kindergarten - Grade five children. Godly models is the style of music. Both services Play is a children’s program with its roots in cherish the styles of music as well as appreciate Montessori learning where children are told the

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 12 of 24 stories of our Christian faith and then supported well trained, well-coordinated, and well in wondering and exploring their own response supported volunteers. to the stories. Celebrated and honoured is the Through the establishment of a theological arc fact that children have a spiritual self and our for the congregation, we can ensure that the volunteers support them in their ‘work’ of children and youth programming are aligned exploring it. They move into a time of ‘work’ with what the focus of the rest of the where they have choices of activities such as congregation. paints, clay, drawing or writing a prepared themed-based activity. 4.6.6.2 Youth, Young Adults and Transition While we have very robust Children and Youth programming, that stops at the end of high school. After that, we have nothing formal. There is a Young Adult group but the transition to this group is not formal. It has also been recognized that we spend so much time on Christian Education with the children and youth separate from the adults, that expecting them to suddenly want to join the adult service full time is not necessarily a given. Junior Café is for children in Grades Six - Eight. The Junior Youth of SMRUC gather over hot Some specific work around transition from chocolate to talk and build community. They youth programming and context to adult explore how the Christian Faith can be lived out programming and context is sorely needed. in their lives. This group often takes on God’s- love-in-action projects, such as raising funds for 4.6.7 The Off Season social justice work. During the summer Senior Youth is for young people from Grade months Nine - Twelve. The conversation continues as (usually July the Senior Youth use multiple mediums to and August) explore the world and how, as Christians, to we change respond. They are a strong voice in SMRUC’s our worship. ongoing commitment to Affirming Ministry. Some years Exploring other faiths, justice issues and more, we have taken all of July off and returned to our they are a place to look for information of United worship streams in August. More recently we Church youth retreats and find some the have opted to worship throughout the summer, brightest young leaders in the SMRUC but jointly, and often differently than we had community. together.

4.6.6.1 Children and Youth Focus We also recognize that summers in Manitoba are In the past we have had dedicated youth precious, and many members of the ministers to support this important ministry. congregation choose to spend them out of the However, through conversation and city, camping or at the lake. We have also consultation it became clear that, while access to explored weeknight BBQ and casual worship ministerial support is important, what our expressions to accommodate that demographic. Children and Youth programming really needs is

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 13 of 24

4.7 Pastoral Care Other specific areas of challenge include: From being the area distributor for Winnipeg  Sustaining vibrant traditional United Harvest (local food bank) to specifically offering Church and contemporary worship support and prayer for our own members in paths need, St. Mary's Road feels very strongly about  Growing and supporting our children the community of which we are a part. and youth ministry including transition We show this commitment by offering ongoing to adult worship. pastoral care of the senior members of our  Addressing budget deficit through congregation who are unable to attend regular avenues including Financial stewardship services; emergent care including initiatives. hospitalization, crisis counselling (physical,  Finding a sustainable/adequate staffing emotional, or mental health), and dealing with model death.  Developing strategies to meet pastoral care needs. To “Welcome Radically” is a cornerstone of our  Maintaining a vibrant volunteer base beliefs at St. Mary's Road so it is vital to us to  Growing our congregation connect with young families and new members in our midst. St. Mary's Road truly embraces The opportunity is inherent in all these outreach at all levels from our neighbourhood to challenges – they are all looking to the future of global action. We are a caring, generous church. what we can become.

Currently we have an active pastoral care team supported by the minister.

Pastoral care is an important part of being church, however we recognize that the way we have done it needs to change. The amount of support we had with 3 ministers is different than with half that number. We will need to expand the support for, and membership in the pastoral care team, and explore models like cell groups (discussed earlier). Our expectations about when the minister can visit will need to change. 4.8 Challenges & Opportunities We have several areas of challenge and opportunity. A vital part of this is the understanding of abundance. We are a church of abundance. Yes, we are needing to retract our staffing and are experiencing some financial constraints. However we still have a wealth of resources, dedicated and committed volunteers and a rich and vibrant community. Our biggest challenge is to act out of our abundance.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 14 of 24

4.9 Statement on Community God's people. But at the heart of it all, we centre ourselves in the Holy Spirit. In 2007 we undertook a visioning exercise. The result of this was a series of theological hope statements that we have re-adopted as a stubbornly statement on community: how we want to be in We are a people of tenacious and unyielding the world. hope. We hope for others when others no longer have hope. It is from this hope that we turn to action; seeking peace, justice and wholeness. We strive relentlessly for the New Jerusalem – for the world God intends.

love wastefully

With Jesus as our model, our mentor, and our guide, we pour out love without any regard to the cost. We love without reason or benefit, without payback or return. We love because this, We come together as church, as a community above all else, is the greatest gift we can give. that shares the written and lived experience of the Christian tradition. We come together as live intentionally church, as individuals who find meaning in broad and diverse ways. We come together as We know that our choices matter. Regardless of church honouring that diversity, supporting how small or insignificant they seem, we make each person’s journey, grounded in the story of them with meaning and intent - choosing to live the Word made flesh. We come together as with respect and awareness for the creation church, as a community who: entrusted to us. We know that everyone is a child of God, blessed with gifts and purpose and welcome radically dignity. We live fully into those gifts, celebrating and immersing ourselves in the life God has We believe that welcome is a fundamental given us. We are the face of Jesus to those we statement of home. We welcome the guest as meet. family into a community of safety, acceptance, inclusiveness and openness. We understand 4.10 Affirming Ministry that welcome changes us as much as it changes On May 4th, 2014, St. Mary’s Road those we welcome. We see the face of Jesus in United Church officially became an those we meet. Affirming Ministry. worship totally 4.10.1 SMRUC Affirming Ministry Vision Statement In all that we do, in all that we are, we embody At St. Mary’s Road United Church we are worship. By our actions, simple and profound, committed through our mission statement to we incarnate the love of God. We find new ways welcome radically, worship totally, hope to be community, to explore faith and to be stubbornly, love wastefully, and live intentionally.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 15 of 24

We believe in a church community of safety,  Celebrate the anniversary of our church acceptance, inclusiveness, and openness. becoming an Affirming Ministry Everyone is a beloved child of God. We celebrate  Ministers will provide pastoral care to those the diversity that God has created, that everyone individuals who are struggling with their is blessed with gifts, and purpose, and dignity. sexual orientation and gender identity, and to those individuals having trouble adjusting A faith journey is open to people of every age, to SMRUC having become an Affirming sex, race, family status, cultural and economic Ministry background, mental or physical ability, gender, and sexual identity. 4.11 Vision We are open to, and affirming of heterosexual, In October 2014 the congregation appointed a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, two-spirit, vision team and engaged the services of Edge questioning, and queer persons and their Ministry to help formulate a vision. Over the families, with respect to full participation in the course of a year the vision team consulted with church – membership, life passages, life and the congregation in numerous ways including a work, mission, and leadership including ministry. Vision Day, the United Church IMNA survey, discussions and letters. Through this process, We will work constantly to be a safe, inclusive, and faithful reflection, this vision emerged. and affirming church. The full document is attached as an Appendix. It We will work constantly for healing, justice, is a critical part of this JNAC and should be dignity, and inclusiveness for all in our considered fully part of this report. community and society. As a community of faith, our purpose is to

4.10.2 SMRUC Affirming Action Plan create disciples that are active in the world. We  The Affirm group will continue to meet to do this through community and worship that plan education and outreach engages, challenges, affirms, comforts, inspires  Take part in the Pride Winnipeg Festival and transforms.  Maintain and grow our book and video lending library In Matthew 28 Jesus gives the disciples the Great  Make it known through the Link, Take Note, Commission: to go out and make disciples of all website, and outdoor signage, that we are the nations. The message translation of this is to an Affirming Ministry. “Go out and train everyone you meet, far and  Support the Rainbow Harmony Project near in this way of life”. Fundamentally this is the through volunteering at least once a year purpose of church. We prepare, train and  Explore sending members to the Affirm support disciples to do God’s work in the world. United AGM or an Affirming Ministry Discipleship at its heart is following the teachings Conference of Jesus. People do this in many ways. Some are  Observe International Day Against loud and overt, others are quiet and intensely Homophobia – May 17 personal. Your discipleship is not my discipleship.  Continue to explore other justice issues How we follow is ours alone, and responds to our such as racism own gifts. But that we follow is ours together.  Explore ways to support the needs of LGBT Our community and our worship is our seniors in our area, particularly in the area touchstone. It builds us up so we can go out. of housing and spiritual care

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 16 of 24

Discipleship is about our growth as Christians – as a people of faith. We believe that our faith 5 Staffing Model drives us to action, but faith – the grounding in St Mary’s Road United Church seeks to honour the Christian context and relationship with The our established worship models. We also seek Holy – is the foundation. At the most to embrace, honour and support our ministry fundamental level we must develop disciples, to, and with, children and youth. through education, training and community. We Considering our vision and our finances we are need to give people opportunities to explore creating a sustainable ministry staff model with their faith, deepen their faith, and challenge the following Full Time Equivalent (FTE) their faith. positions:

1.0 FTE Minister focused on Worship

0.5 FTE Minister focused on Development

0.8 FTE Administrative Support

Part time Music Staffing – The Journey

Part time Music Staffing – Tree of Life

It is expected that in all things, this group of paid staff act as a team, focused on achieving the vision for this church.

Beyond this core, the Vision is described and lived out through six pillars: worship, outreach, pastoral care, children and youth, community and lay leadership. The idea of discipleship has different meanings and impacts for each of these areas. While these pillars appear to stand on their own, fundamentally they share many principles and practices such as prayer, Christian education, faith development and caring for the community.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 17 of 24

5.1 Position Description: 1.0 FTE Minister You are a creative and innovative worship leader with a passion for church development. You can draw the best out of the diverse volunteers and staff who work as part of your team to create meaningful worship experiences that engage, challenge, affirm, comfort, inspire and transform. You are comfortable preparing, planning and organizing traditional “United Church” worship as well as more contemporary or modern expressions of worship. You can build a cohesive theological arc/focus for the church - with resources and tools that can be used across worship, programming and small groups, including all ages and stages. You are exceptionally collaborative and prepared to work with, motivate, challenge, and develop a committed and engaged volunteer base. You are a leader who can help engage and challenge our congregation to fully live out our vision of disciples active in the world.

5.1.1 Primary Responsibilities: 5.1.3 Skills and Knowledge:  Primarily responsible for preaching/ The successful candidate for the 1.0 FTE worship services minister position will:  Establish the theological arc or focus for  embrace the ethos and theology of the the church. United Church of Canada  Lead worship approximately 75% of the  demonstrate strength and skill in preaching time  skillfully conduct both a traditional worship  Develop/compile resources (in service and a contemporary worship collaboration with other staff and service, using creative and varied strategies volunteers) for groups, committees and the  minister to a multigenerational children/youth programming to participate congregation in the theological arc/focus of the church  demonstrate strong oral and written  Support for children and youth ministry communication skills, interpersonal skills,  Responsible for nurturing the church organization, delegation and prioritization community skills  Collaborate with staff and volunteers of  work as part of a team in a flexible, the church collegial manner  Support for Stewardship with a focus on  possess counselling, conflict management financial sustainability and resolution skills 5.1.2 Additionally  work comfortably with technology  Organize and conduct special services,  demonstrate effective time management including Care Home services 5.1.4 Accountability  Attend required committee meetings e.g.  This position is accountable by covenant Leadership Team, Worship Planning, with Winnipeg Presbytery of the United Presbytery, M&P Church of Canada and St. Mary’s Road  Pastoral care United Church  Support small groups as required  The Ministry & Personnel Committee of St.  Participate in the life of the congregation Mary’s Road United Church will oversee events and gatherings the terms of employment and will provide  Weddings and Funerals

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 18 of 24

consultation, support and annual 5.1.7 Time allocation (per week) performance reviews In order to help with prioritization and focus, the following time allocation provides some 5.1.5 Requirements general guidance for approximate allocation of  Must be a member of the Order of Ministry time. Time is shown given a standard 40 hour of the United Church of Canada week.  Continuing education focused toward job priorities and to be negotiated with M&P 55%/24hr - Worship Committee  Plan Worship 5.1.6 Terms  Lead Worship This is a full time position based on 40 hours per  Theological Arc week. The terms of call are to be based on the  Resource Development Salary and Allowance Schedules of General 35%/12hr Community Council. SMRUC is in category 3.  Support Stewardship  salary above base is negotiable  Support church groups/Leaders  1 month paid vacation per year  Attend meetings  continuing education allowance  “Life of the Congregation”  technology allowance  3 weeks paid study leave per year 10%/4hr Pastoral Care  basic monthly cell phone allowance  Crisis Pastoral Care  Visitation  Support the Pastoral Care Team  Care Home Services

Note that Children and Youth are not specifically called out in the time allocation because it is expected that most of the areas above will have at least some support for, or focus on, this central ministry. This includes worship planning, theological arc, resource development, supporting group/leaders, crisis pastoral care, and visitation.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 19 of 24

5.2 Position Description: 0.5 FTE Minister You are a passionate community builder who can see the potential in people and can bring out their best. You love working with volunteers to build exceptional programs. Your ministry is about helping others find their ministry in the church and the world. You have experience developing leaders and believe that we are all leaders in the roles we play. You have a special passion for children and youth ministry, being a nurturing minister to and with them, and helping develop leaders who can run programming designed to meet their needs. You are exceptionally collaborative and prepared to work with, motivate, challenge, and develop a committed and engaged volunteer base. You are a leader who can help engage and challenge our congregation to fully live out our vision of disciples active in the world.

5.2.1 Primary Responsibilities  demonstrate skill and experience in the  Responsible for lay leadership development of lay leaders development, volunteer activation and co-  be aware of the needs of lay leaders and be ordination able to encourage and support them in  Responsible for children and youth ministry their roles and Christian education, equipping,  have experience in ministry to and with supporting and enabling volunteers to children and youth ensure this ministry operates.  have experience with volunteer  Develop, equip and support the Pastoral coordination and volunteer activation Care Team  skillfully conduct both a traditional worship  Responsible for developing the Church service and a contemporary worship Community service using creative and varied strategies  Lead approximately 25% of worship  minister to a multigenerational services congregation  Collaborate with small groups as required.  demonstrate strong oral and written  Collaborate with staff and volunteers as communication skills, interpersonal skills, required organization, delegation and prioritization skills 5.2.2 Additionally:  work as part of a team in a flexible,  Pastoral care collegial manner  Attend, as required, committee meetings  possess counselling, conflict management e.g. Leadership Team, Worship Planning, and resolution skills Presbytery, M&P  work comfortably with technology  Participate in the life of the congregation  demonstrate effective time management events and gatherings

5.2.3 Skills and Knowledge: The successful candidate for the 0.5 FTE minister will:

 embrace the ethos and theology of the United Church of Canada

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 20 of 24

5.2.4 Terms 5.2.7 Time allocation (per week) This is a half-time position based on 20 hours In order to help with prioritization and focus, per week. The terms of call are to be based on the following time allocation provides some the Salary and Allowance Schedules of General general guidance for approximate allocation of Council. SMRUC is in category 3. All terms are time. Time is shown given a standard 20 hour prorated to 0.5 full time equivalent. week.

 salary above base is negotiable 40%/8hr – Volunteer Development/ Activation  1 month paid vacation per year  Leadership Development  continuing education allowance  Volunteer Development  technology allowance  Volunteer Coordination  3 weeks paid study leave per year  basic monthly cell phone allowance 40%/8hr Community and Worship

5.2.5 Accountability  Program Development/Support  This position is accountable by covenant  Youth Program Support and Leadership with Winnipeg Presbytery of the United  Attend meetings Church of Canada and St. Mary’s Road  “Life of the Congregation” United Church  Plan/Lead Worship  The Ministry & Personnel Committee of St. 20%/4hr Pastoral Care Mary’s Road United Church will oversee the terms of employment and will provide  Crisis Pastoral Care consultation, support and annual  Visitation performance reviews  Support the Pastoral Care Team 5.2.6 Requirements  Must be a member of the Order of Ministry of the United Church of Canada  Continuing education focused toward job priorities and to be negotiated with M&P Committee

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 21 of 24

5.3 Position Description: Office Administrator You are a detailed, organized and outgoing person who loves the “behind the scenes” work to keep an organization running. You take pride in enabling the work of others and understand your critical role in making them successful - particularly in a volunteer based community. You enjoy connecting people together and finding ways to enhance the flow of ideas and information. Your focus on the things like finances, membership lists and schedules, ensuring that the church runs smoothly.

5.3.1 Primary Responsibilities  support the ministry staff  maintain financial and church records  complete administrative tasks  support and enhance communication within the congregation 5.3.2 Additionally  coordinate church bookings  reception and ‘space control’ during the week  financial duties in coordination with the treasurer  scheduling and communicating with volunteers 5.3.3 Terms Generally a week-day position. Tuesday through Friday during “regular business hours”. Occasional attendance at SMRUC is encouraged but not required. Some attendance at special events may be requested.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 22 of 24

5.4 Position Description: Music leadership – Tree of Life You are a skilled musician and musical director able to draw the best out of the volunteers in your choir. You are proficient on the organ and piano with an appreciation for other instrumentation. Your understanding of music theory and your friendly personable attitude means that you can support and develop even the most tentative new singer and can create and shape music to suit the members of your choir. You enjoy working with volunteers who have a passion for singing and want to build a community that can support each other and enjoy music together. You believe that music is an integral part of worship and understand how to use it to move people emotionally, and support the themes and flow of worship. You enjoy collaborating with people – volunteers and paid staff – to create meaningful and worshipful experiences for people.

5.4.1 Primary Responsibilities  Choir leadership  Provide music leadership and  Significant musical ability specifically with accompaniment in worship, specifically for organ and piano. Other instrumentation an the Tree of Life service asset  Organize, direct, and rehearse the choir.  Excellent communication and leadership  Plan music for services in collaboration skills with the ministers and worship planning  Formal training in music at a post- team secondary level is desirable  Collaborate with staff and volunteers of  Highly collaborative the church 5.4.4 Accountability  Actively seek to expand the membership Directly responsible to the Ministry and and grow the skill of the choir Personnel Committee of the church  Support and foster development of the church community 5.4.5 Terms Part time term position of approximately 15 hours per week. 4 weeks holiday. The position 5.4.2 Additionally will be reviewed and subject to renewal each  Provide leadership and accompaniment for calendar year special worship.  Actively seek engaging music with an appropriate theology for worship services throughout the church year, in collaboration with ministry staff and the Worship Planning Team.  Attend required committee meetings e.g. Worship Planning, M&P  Oversee music licensing as required.

5.4.3 Skills and Knowledge  Music direction and planning in a United Church context

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 23 of 24

5.5 Position Description: Music leadership – The Journey You are a skilled musician and musical director able to draw the best out of the volunteers you work with. You are proficient on a lead instrument like piano or guitar, and can develop a volunteer band including guitar, drums, base and other instruments. Your understanding of music theory and your friendly personable attitude means that you can support and develop the most tentative or new singer or instrumentalist, and can create and shape songs to suit the band. You enjoy working with volunteers who have a passion for music and want to build a community that can support each other and enjoy music together. You believe that music is an integral part of worship and understand how to use it to move people emotionally, and support the themes and flow of worship. You enjoy collaborating with people – volunteers and paid staff – to create meaningful and worshipful experiences for people.

5.5.1 Primary Responsibilities  Contemporary worship music experience.  Provider music leadership and  Significant musical ability specifically with accompaniment in worship, specifically for lead instrumentation like piano or guitar the Journey worship service  Excellent communication and leadership  Organize, direct, and rehearse the band. skills  Coordinate/schedule volunteer musicians,  Highly collaborative including singers and instrumentalists 5.5.4 Accountability  Plan music for services in collaboration Directly responsible to the Ministry and with the ministers and worship planning Personnel Committee of the church. team  Actively seek to expand the membership 5.5.5 Terms and grow the skill of the band Part time term position of approximately 18  Support and foster development of the hours per week. 4 weeks holiday. The position church community will be reviewed and subject to renewal each calendar year. 5.5.2 Additionally  Provide leadership and accompaniment for special worship.  Actively seek new and engaging music with an appropriate theology for worship services throughout the church year, in collaboration with volunteer musicians, ministry staff and the Worship Planning Team  Attend required committee meetings e.g. Worship Planning, M&P  Oversee music licensing as required.

5.5.3 Skills and Knowledge  Music direction and planning in a United Church context.

SMRUC JNAC 2016 Page 24 of 24